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12th Flying Training Wing

The 12th Flying Training Wing, headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, develops the next generation of Air Force aviators and enlisted aircrew by providing world-class flying training and education. The wing trains Airmen in the fundamentals of airmanship, instruction and leadership, preparing them for success in operational units across the Air Force. Through undergraduate Combat Systems Officer training, Pilot Instructor Training, Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals, Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilot indoctrination, enlisted aviator training, and other specialized programs, the 12th FTW produces skilled, adaptable, and combat-ready professionals capable of meeting the demands of today's complex operating environment while strengthening the future of American airpower.

 

 

12FTW Units

aircraft mechanic, performs maintenance 12th Maintenance Group
12th Maintenance Group
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Photo of an undergaraduate combat systems officer graduation 479th Flying Training Group
479th Flying Training Group
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An Airman inspects an aircraft 12th Operations Group
12th Operations Group
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Articles

USAF Drill Team Airman returns home for Fiesta

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Dillon Parker
  • 502nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas --  

For Airman 1st Class Blake Adler, a member of the U.S. Air Force Drill Team, a recent trip to San Antonio, Texas April 19-23, was a special homecoming.

“I grew up going to all of these events,” Adler, a San Antonio native said. “Actually participating in them was a dream come true and I’m so grateful for the opportunity. Fiesta is such a big event and just a lot of fun.”

Adler said it all became possible during a U.S. Air Force Honor Guard recruiting trip to basic military training where Adler was drawn to the sharpness and professionalism of the casket bearers.

“Seeing what the Honor Guard does for the families of our fallen instantly drew me in,” Adler said. “I knew I had to be a part of it when I saw the opportunity.”

After being a casket bearer for more than a year and a half, Adler decided the next step in his journey would be joining the U.S. Air Force Drill Team. Airmen in the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard are eligible to apply to the drill team, which is the traveling component of the Honor Guard whose mission is to recruit, retain and inspire Airmen.

“I was just hungry to get better,” Adler said. “The drill team is fun, different and a great way to continue getting better.”

Master Sgt. Jason Evans, U.S. Air Force Drill Team commander, said Adler is a perfect fit for the drill team.

“Adler is one of the most hardworking Airmen I’ve ever met,” Evans said. “People make fun of him for how hard he works. Before every drill, he throws more moves warming-up than anybody else. He comes to work early and stays late…his work ethic is truly what sets him apart.”

Not only is Adler a hard worker, he also cares for the people around him, Evans said.

“His combination of caring and hard work make him a great fit for the drill team,” Evans said. “He’s always trying to get better and help the people around him. It’s very important we have mature and hard-working Airmen like him on the drill team, because we interact with the American public in a less formal manner then the rest of the honor guard.”

The trip not only had an effect on Adler, but also the rest of the team, Evans said.

“The atmosphere at Fiesta week here in San Antonio was amazing,” Evans said. “It’s awesome to see a city with such patriotism and love for their military and country. It felt great to be a part of it.”

Public Affairs Information

Tours of the 12th Flying Training Wing are provided to various community organizations, high schools, businesses, and academic military recruitment programs to educate their members about the 12th FTW mission.

Due to the high volume of requests and limited public affairs resources, tours and static displays are limited.

Please submit all requests in writing to the 12th FTW Public Affairs by email to 12ftw.pa.1@us.af.mil at least three weeks but no more than six weeks in advance. You may also call 210-652-1272.

Tours are not available on weekends and may be cancelled at any time because of increased security measures or mission requirements. The 12th FTW does not host tours of Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph at-large. To schedule a tour of JBSA-Randolph, please contact JBSA-Randolph Public Affairs at 502abw.pa.official@us.af.mil or dial 210-652-4410.

If desired, requestors must arrange all meals. PA will provide contact information to base eateries. Modified tours will be granted for those with limited mobility - this must be stated on the tour request. If not stated, it is assumed that mobility is not an issue.