433rd MDG superintendent retires after more than 30 years of service

Col. Sylvia Fernandez, 433rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron commander, presents a certificate of retirement to Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto Flores, 433rd Medical Group superintendent, during a ceremony on Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, October 14, 2023. Flores retired with 31 years of military service. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mark Colmenares)

433rd MDG superintendent retires after more than 30 years of service

Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto Flores, 433rd Medical Group superintendent, receives a shadowbox from 433rd Airlift Wing colleagues during his retirement ceremony on Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, October 14, 2023. Flores served for more than three decades in the Air Force and provided essential oversight to over 370 medical personnel across three squadrons during his final assignment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mark Colmenares)

433rd MDG superintendent retires after more than 30 years of service

Published Oct. 14, 2023
By Senior Airman Mark Colmenares
433rd Airlift Wing Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas --

Chief Master Sergeant Ernesto Flores Jr. retired from his role as the medical group superintendent of the 433rd Medical Group after over 31 years of service, October 14, 2023.

Flores began his Air Force career in 1987 as a health administration specialist at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma. As medical group superintendent, he provided essential oversight to over 370 medical personnel across three squadrons.

His retirement ceremony included his family, friends, and fellow service members at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. Guest speaker Col. Sylvia Fernandez, 433rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron commander, expressed gratitude for Flores’ commitment, acknowledging his personal sacrifices.

"I know he has missed many anniversaries, birthdays, and many celebrations where all of the family would gather together while he was out there performing his responsibilities and serving his country,” said Fernandez. “With that, I want to say thank you."

"I didn't do this by myself,” said Flores. “We have a team, and we do it together. So, thank you all for your support and all those who have supported me."