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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

Team BLAZE welcomes newest ‘pilot’ during fun-filled day

  • Published
  • By Airman Davis Donaldson
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  

Pilots, pink gifts and attention, according to Aubrey Armstrong, there’s not much more a child could ask for.

Aubrey had a chance to spend time with pilots at Columbus Air Force Base, Mississippi, June 25, during her Pilot for a Day opportunity.

Pilot for a Day is a program which offers children with disabilities an opportunity to spend a day with pilots and tour the base’s facilities.

Aubrey is a 15-year-old girl from Oxford, Mississippi, and is diagnosed with Down syndrome.
Ever since she was 2 weeks old, Aubrey’s parents were very aggressive with her speech, physical and occupational therapy. According to her mother, Holly Armstrong, Aubrey receives care at Batson’s Children Hospital, and is a champion and representative for the hospital.

“She’s gotten to be a part of a lot of adventures, and Pilot for a Day happened to be one of them,” Armstrong said. “They reached out to us to see if we wanted participate and of course we said yes.”

Aubrey and her parents spent the day with Capt. Joshua James, a 41st Flying Training Squadron T-6 Texan II instructor pilot.

They went to the 14th Medical Group, and Aubrey received a flight suit in her size. They then went to the flight line, and Aubrey posed for her ‘hero shot’ on the wing of a T-6 with her name on the side.

After her ‘hero shot’ she went to Columbus AFB’s fire department, meeting some of the firefighters who protect Team BLAZE around the clock. The fire department gave Aubrey several mementos, including a pink fire helmet, and a ride in a fire truck. Aubrey also had the chance spray water from the hose of the fire truck.

“The fire station was very cool because I got a pink fire helmet,” Aubrey said.

James later showed Aubrey a T-6 flight simulator. She was able to fly in the simulator herself before ending the day with lunch alongside various 41st FTS members, to include James and Col. Derek Stuart, 14th Operations Group commander.

James said Pilot for a Day was as inspiring for him as it was Aubrey and her parents.

“It may sound cheesy, but getting to show off what we get to do every day and seeing her face get really exciting about everything was amazing,” James said. “I think Pilot for a Day is important for the kids and the families because they get to have a wonderful day together and just be happy, live life and enjoy themselves.”

Armstrong said she realized how much work went into making Pilot for a Day possible for Aubrey and was really appreciative of everyone’s hard work and involvement.

“I thought was amazing for us to see what Airmen do every day to protect our country and it was an amazing experience,” Armstrong said. “I thought everyone was so outgoing and friendly and they were just so welcoming. It was an awesome experience for Aubrey because she just loved every 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.