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Former commander inducted into AETC Order of Sword

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Rebecca DanĂ©t
  • Air Education and Training Command Public Affairs
Joint Base San Antonio - Randolph --  The former commander of Air Education and Training Command's 2nd Air Force is set to be inducted into AETC's Order of the Sword here a 6 p.m., April 6, in the Parr Club.

Maj. Gen. Alfred Flowers retired from Air Force service in November 2011 after more than 46 years on active duty. He served as commander of 2nd Air Force at Keesler Air Force Base, Miss., from May 2008 to September 2009.

The Order of the Sword was established by the Air Force enlisted force to recognize and honor senior military officers. Its history and approval process are laid out formally in Air Force Instruction 36-2824, Order of the Sword Programs. NCOs bestow the honor for conspicuous and significant contributions to the welfare and prestige of the Air Force enlisted force, mission effectiveness, and the overall military establishment.

"I don't think there's any command in our United States Air Force that's more important to all of us than (Air) Education and Training Command," Flowers said when he received the surprise announcement Nov. 2. He said he has immense respect for the young men and women who show up to basic training at JBSA-Lackland, Texas, each week. "That's what it's all about."

Chief Master Sgt. James Cody, AETC's command chief, informed Flowers of his selection during a brief ceremony in the Pentagon's Airman's Hall last year. He will be on hand Friday to preside as Chief Master Sergeant of the Mess for Flowers' official induction ceremony. JBSA enlisted Airmen are encouraged to attend.