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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

Former Nomad returns to command the 33rd FW

  • Published
  • 33rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  

Hundreds of Nomads welcomed a new commander to the 33rd Fighter Wing during a change of command ceremony here, Jun 18.

Maj. Gen. Craig Wills, the commander of 19th Air Force, presided over the ceremony where Col. Jon Wheeler took his place as the newest Nomad One and the wing bid farewell to Col. Paul Moga, who heads to an air staff position at the Pentagon.

Addressing Nomads, community partners and family alike, Wills lauded the 33rd FW for its continued contributions to the Air Force’s newest 5th generation fighter, the F-35 Lightning II and praised Wheeler as a ‘perfect choice’ to continue the wing’s almost 80 year legacy in air power.

“The 33rd FW has been a catalyst to improving mission readiness and modernizing our F-35,” said Wills. “These F-35’s are the oldest in the fleet but they’re ready for the future thanks to this amazing team.”

Wheeler assumed the 33rd FW’s top spot after completing a remote tour as the vice commander of the 8th FW “Wolf Pack,” Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea. The move reunited Wheeler with his family but also returned the command pilot to Florida’s Emerald Coast and the Nomads.

In 2010, Wheeler was one of only 10 fighter pilots selected to serve in the inaugural cadre of F-35 instructor pilots at the 33rd FW. This group led the wing’s successful transition to the world’s first F-35 fighter wing and laid the foundation for the current flying training mission that Wheeler now oversees.

"Our mission of producing the world's finest F-35 pilots, Air Battle Managers, and intelligence professionals is absolutely critical to the Air Force of the future,” said Wheeler. “The training we provide to Nomad maintainers, and the support we provide to the joint maintenance training that happens here at Eglin, will directly impact our nation's ability to produce combat power.”

In closing, Wheeler expressed his gratitude to Airmen and their families for their constant dedication and pledged to his in return.

“I thank you and your families for the sacrifices you make and will continue to make to advance the program,” said Wheeler. “I promise you that I will do my very best to continue to focus on the mission while we grow our Airmen to be better leaders…there are exciting times ahead for this wing and I am honored to be your commander for the journey to come,” he concluded.

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.