With his great command record and warm personality, Pepper is well liked and respected by his men. Over the years, he has built a close, trusting relationship with Fox and company. Pepper's sense of duty also prompts him to take Fox's career into his hands considering the guilt he feels for sending his old friend James McCloud to his doom. The general's apparent gentle nature, cute and cuddly demeanour may have been the reason that Andross's Empire slipped by his watch and invaded Corneria, hence the peaceful nature of most Cornerians and Pepper choosing to banish Andross as execution would not make Pepper any better than the evil mad scientist.