Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley presents Maj. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers the Distinguished Service Medal during the general’s retirement ceremony Nov. 17, 2011, at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, in Washington D.C. Flowers has served more than 46 years on active duty and is the longest serving Airman in Air Force history. Flowers is the deputy assistant secretary for budget.(U.S. Air Force photo/Jim Varhegyi)
Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller Dr. Jamie M. Morin shares a few words with Maj. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers before his retirement ceremony Nov. 17, 2011, at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington D.C. Flowers has served more than 46 years on active duty and is the longest serving Airman in Air Force history. Flowers is the deputy assistant secretary for budget. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sergeant Raheem Moore)
by Tech. Sgt. Richard Williams
Air Force Public Affairs Agency
11/21/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- As the sun sets on the career of Maj. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers, he looks back with a sense of accomplishment.
Flowers, the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Budget, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Financial Management and Comptroller, is set to retire from the Air Force on Jan. 1, 2012.
With 46 years of service to his country, Flowers is the longest serving Airman and currently the longest serving Air Force officer who began their service since the creation of the U.S. Air Force in 1947.
"When you start at age 17, you can get a lot done by the time you are 60," Flowers said.
A Kinston, N.C., native, Flowers was raised by his grandparents, who were sharecroppers. He credits humble beginnings as the foundation that carried him to where he is today.
"Being raised by grandparents who instilled the morals, the values, the integrity of doing the right thing and treating people the way you want to be treated has been important," he said. "I credit a lot of my makeup, morals and ethical values and attitudes to them."
These values guided Flowers to perform his best in school and propelled him to graduate high school at 17.
Flowers knew the opportunity to further his education after high school was bleak. However, there were other ways to succeed for someone with motivation, drive and a willingness to perform their best every day.
He followed the model of a cousin who had joined the Army a few years earlier and was doing well. He asked his grandmother's permission to join the Air Force in 1965.
Upon completion of basic military training, Flowers received a direct to duty assignment as a supply warehouseman at Grand Forks Air Force Base, N.D., which he recalls was a completely different environment from where he grew up.
After spending two years at Grand Forks AFB, Flowers was retrained into air transportation and received one of his most difficult assignments of his career -- casualty collection at Da Nang Air Base, Vietnam, in 1968.
"I knew that there was a war going on and it was a dangerous place," Flowers said.
"The first day we showed up there was a rocket attack about an hour later, so there I was, a brand new 19-year-old Airman, trying to find my way to the bunker because we were under a rocket attack," he said. "It was eye opening and quite frightening."
In Vietnam, Flowers' primary mission was to haul wounded and deceased soldiers out of the jungle at night.
"It was a job that had to be done but one that was very difficult," Flowers said. "Those young Soldiers and Marines deserved all the dignity and respect we could give."
Upon completion of his tour in Vietnam, Flowers arrived at Norton AFB, Calif., where he met his wife. The two had only been married for two weeks when she received orders to Clark Air Base, Philippines; after six months of separation, he received a joint spouse assignment.
During his time at Clark AB, Flowers began a quest to further his education with the support of his wife, who he credits as a large influence on not only his career but his life as well.
He retrained as an accounting specialist during assignments to Lackland AFB, Texas, and Charleston AFB, S.C., and in 1975, after completing his bachelor's degree, he applied and was accepted to Air Force Officer Training School.
At this time, Flowers' wife, who was also an Airman, received orders to Iraklion AB, Crete. He would have to make a decision: accept his commission with no guarantee of joining his family after OTS completion or decline the commission and go with his family.
"That was an easy decision for me; I went with her and our 4-year-old and decided I would reapply later in my career," Flowers said.
The move to Crete did not deter Flowers from continuing his goal of higher education and pursuing a career as an officer. Flowers finished his master's degree and applied for Officer Training School and this time was denied.
He and his family then moved to Travis AFB, Calif., in 1977 where he again reapplied to OTS and was denied. He waited a short time and, while waiting for his promotion date to sew on master sergeant, he decided to reapply to OTS again and was accepted in 1978.
"My wife had been very instrumental with supporting me while I was furthering my education and extremely supportive after I made my transition from the enlisted side to the officer side," Flowers said.
Flowers was commissioned in 1978 as a financial management officer. He credits the leaders he had with molding him into the officer he has become today and said it wasn't always an easy transition.
The biggest challenge was mentally adjusting to life in the officer corps, Flowers said.
"Expectations are different and challenges are different," he said.
There were many mentors who helped mold Flowers' career and he recalls his time at the 347th Tactical Fighter Squadron Moody AFB, Ga., and Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Langley AFB, Va., as assignments where his leadership helped unlock his potential as an officer.
Through the selfless leadership of others, Flowers said he was allowed to try and succeed or fail based on the support of others around him. This is something he has tried to pass on to enlisted and officers alike throughout the years.
One important piece to a successful mission, according to Flowers, is everyone working together as a team. He said at times he felt a distinct advantage having spent 13 years as an enlisted Airman; it allowed him to mesh officer and enlisted capabilities.
"The thing that you can never forget as an officer is if you are going to be successful, the enlisted community and all of those around you are what make you successful," Flowers said. "None of us are good enough to make ourselves successful, and I never forgot where I came from."
Throughout his career Flowers has completed 25 assignments, all of which he says were unique and challenging; however, he said his best assignment was to U.S. Special Operations Command, where he served as the director of resources.
"I think the reason I cherish it so much is because of the great work those operators are doing in today's fight with the Global War on Terrorism," Flowers said. "I had the opportunity to understand how those great Americans, that small cadre of special operations forces, are making a difference in the fight today.
"To be able to work the resourcing for them and ensure they had what they needed to do their work was a great opportunity and one of my fondest memories over the past 46 years," he added.
Besides his assignment to USSOCOM, Flowers said commanding 2nd Air Force at Keesler AFB, Miss., which oversees all Air Force basic military and nonflying technical training, was his most important assignment.
"Having been an Airman who went through the 3706th Training Squadron in 1965 and being able to return and command 2nd Air Force was one of my greatest opportunities," he added.
The training that takes place at Lackland AFB is the most important thing the Air Force does, he said.
"If we don't get it right there, we don't get it right in the Air Force," Flowers said.
The ability to mold young Airmen into future Air Force leaders placed Flowers exactly where he wanted to be, "with the people," he said. In his view, people are still the most important asset and their abilities and understanding of what is asked of them is crucial to future success.
"This is not about you, this is about service," Flowers said. "And service sometimes means neglecting your own needs for the good of the whole, the nation or the service."
Throughout his career, Flowers has worked to ensure Airmen have what they need to accomplish the mission. Whether it was as a supply warehouseman in 1965, an air transportation specialist during Vietnam or an enlisted or commissioned officer in financial management, his love for service has always been at the forefront, even through many changes to the service he has faithfully served for 46 years.
"I have seen a lot of changes throughout my career, and most of them were for the better," Flowers said. "We all do our jobs and do them the best we can, but we could not do them without the people around us ... the people are what I will miss the most."
Flowers' retirement ceremony and banquet were held at Bolling AFB, Md., Nov. 16.
Comments
12/1/2011 10:13:33 AM ET Maj Gen Flowers, congratulations to you and Ms. Ida on your retirement. It was truly a pleasure working for you as your secretary at USSOCOM. Your wisdom and leadership sytle had a impact on me that will stay with me throughout my career, and I wish you only the best in retirement.
Judy Noettl, MacDill AFB
11/30/2011 3:26:23 PM ET It was an honor to work for you, and your professionalism and leadership was an example for all to follow. The best Director of Resources USSOCOM ever had.
John Provost, Washington DC
11/29/2011 11:04:46 PM ET I had the great pleasure of hearing Gen Flowers speak at a conference couple of years ago and have to say that he really is one of the true Air Force Members who instilled the type of respect and pride in what it means to wear the uniform. With the way the current Air Force is now with some of the overweight can't pass a PT test, less than professional, not as hardworking Airmen that are serving now, I hope that that we can get more people to serve or at least step up to the caliber of Gen Flowers.
Joe, Colorado
11/29/2011 9:13:57 PM ET Congratulations, General Flowers, for a long and impressive career. May only good things come to you and your family in your retirement. You, Sir, are an example to all Airman that with hard work there is goal that can't be reached. Again, congrarulations, Sir.
Retired Msgt Larry McDaniel, Round Rock TX
11/29/2011 3:18:18 PM ET HAND SALUTE to Maj. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers. What a great career. Quite frankly I believe the best officers are the ones that had some enlisted experience. Good luck to you, sir, in your upcoming retirement.
Keith, Clovis NM
11/29/2011 3:16:27 PM ET General Flowers: Congratulations on your historical career. Time to move to new adventures. And just remember, like the rest of us sometimes forgotten AF retirees, you are still very much part of the Blue Team. I still remember that when I retired in 1995. Congratulations on a job well done!
David W. Hannum MSgt Retired, Des Moines Iowa
11/29/2011 3:08:02 PM ET I salute you sir
Ann van der Bruggen Major Royal Netherlands AirForce, Breda The Netherlands
11/23/2011 4:01:28 PM ET Magnificent...simply MAGNIFICENT
LK, Lackland
11/23/2011 12:11:00 PM ET Just a qustion. Gen. Flowers was at Moody AFB at some point correct? Was he in the 374th or the 347th. Was there a wing designation change sometime or is this a misprint. I was assigned to the 347th FW 69th FS from 1986 to 1993. I don't recall that wing having the 374th designation.
Forest Corn, Hill AFB Ut
11/22/2011 3:43:13 PM ET Well done, sir, thanks for your service and God Bless.
William, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
11/22/2011 11:17:55 AM ET I served under Maj. Gen. Flowers at Maxwell AFB. He is a great Airmen leader and mentor. Thank you for all of your wisdom.
John C. Roberts Maj USAF, Vandenberg AFB CA
11/22/2011 10:16:25 AM ET Unbelievable. What a great patriot and Airman. Sir, you joined before I was born and remained on duty long after I retired. Thank you and enjoy retirement.
MSGTret, Georgia
11/22/2011 9:04:49 AM ET What an inspirational career! It's leaders like you that really pave the way for us younger Airmen. Enjoy your retirement, sir.
A1C Abrego, Little Rock AFB
11/22/2011 7:52:14 AM ET This is truly and awesome story. I'm so proud of the accomplishments that he made and his determination not to give up on his dream. Wow - this is quite amazing
Hazel Evnas, Robins AFB
11/22/2011 7:35:43 AM ET Maj Gen Flowers is the most genuine leader I've ever met. He speaks the truth from his heart and his actions mirror his words. I'll personally miss his wisdom, leadership and vision. Knowing him, he's prepared many replacements who will rise to the challenges we continue to face. I salute you for your unprecedented service to our great Air Force and wish you and yours all the best as you transition to your next endeavor.
Bob C. , Randolph AFB TX
11/22/2011 4:13:26 AM ET 46 years of service and achievements well done!
TJN, UK
11/22/2011 1:20:54 AM ET Totally Humbled. Thank you Maj.Gen. Flowers for your service. From Basic straight to Grand Forks North Dakota...Great men and women start in the oddest of places. Praying for your Countinued Blessings. 2007-2010 Warrior of the North
E.Campbell , Europe
11/22/2011 1:15:17 AM ET Absolutely a top notch guy! I was down at SOCOM with him when he put on his 1st Star. Best of luck with his post-AF life.
Dave H., Afghanistan
11/21/2011 11:54:57 PM ET Then Lt. Flowers came to work with me at Moody AFB, GA, in the 347th TFW just prior to my retirement. I knew at the time he had great potential, it looks as though I was correct.Jim BardJames F. Bard Jr.Captain USAF Retired
Jim Bard, Westminster MD
11/21/2011 11:53:21 PM ET General Flowers, With gratitude for your spirit of comraderie, I welcome you into the world of retirement and pride of wearing the uniform for many years. I am proud to have you as a fellow retiree. God bless you and your family.
Msgt Mark Wight, Provo Utah
11/21/2011 7:07:08 PM ET We all owe you a debt of gratitude General Flowers. Thank you so much for your service and dedication.
TSgt Mills, MacDill AFB
11/21/2011 6:31:05 PM ET Gen. Flowers - you're a credit to your family your Air Force and your Nation I appreciate all you've been through and all you've done. Carry on.
Ret'd in Japan, Japan
11/21/2011 5:26:39 PM ET General Flowers, congratulations on your retirement. I was reading your bio and noticed I was at the same locations for years; however, just a couple years earlier. Enjoy retirement, but do fine something to fill the hours, volunteer work is great
MSgt Flournoy, Moore OK
11/21/2011 3:38:42 PM ET Congratulations on your retirement and thank you for your service MGen Flowers. Also a thank you to your family that sacrificed by your side.
Load, Vegas
11/21/2011 12:52:01 PM ET Maj. Gen. Flowers: It was a pleasure to meet you and your family at Ramstein while stationed there. You made quite an impression me by your humbleness and willingness to take time to talk to a young TSgt. Your words resonated and have made me very successful. Best of luck in your future career and you have left quite the legacy.Good luck and Godspeed.
SMSgt Melvin Fogle, Camp Arifjan Kuwait
11/21/2011 12:42:28 PM ET Congrats to Maj Gen Flowers for a long and distinguished career. He did a excellent job as the J8 at USSOCOM.
Mike, South Florida
11/21/2011 12:30:46 PM ET Why do officers get to serve more than 30 years and enlisted are limited?
AirmanB, Offutt
11/21/2011 12:07:11 PM ET From a fellow FM'er, Congratulations General on a historical career. I believe I share the sentiments of the entirety of our FM Community when I wish you the best of luck in all of your retirement endeavors. Thank you for your service, sir.
SSgt Stephen Myers, Tucson Air National Guard Base AZ
11/21/2011 12:02:16 PM ET I would like to congratulate Gen Flowers. It is a much deserved retirement. I was very impressed with his story as well as a amazing career, from what I can see. I am very proud to have served in the Air Force the same time he was. I just wish that the Air Force keeps getting the same caliber of person that he is.
John J DiStefano Jr. MSGT USAF Retired, Letterkenny Army Depot Chambersburg Pa.
