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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

Columbus students complete training; become AF pilots

  • Published
  • By A1C Jessica Haynie
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  

COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. – Fifteen student from Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class 21-04, have officially graduated, earning their pilot wings on Columbus Air Force Base, Miss.

Student pilots must go through a rigorous 52-week training program, operating trainer aircraft such as the T-6 Texan II, before claiming the title of U.S. Air Force pilot.

These brand new pilots were accompanied on graduation day by guest speaker U.S. Air Force Col. James Akers, 1st Operations Group commander at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.


Akers not only offered his words of wisdom to the fresh graduates, but gave the base an extra treat with an F-22 Raptor Airpower Demo show shortly after, to all of Columbus AFB.

“When I was sitting in those seats, I did not realize that operators like yourselves were going to have a tactical, operational and strategic impact on the World,” said Akers. “I am here to say you will and it is an exciting time for all of you.”

As a first lieutenant, a mere 3 years after graduation, Akers was called to defend the air space of the western United States after news of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the country reached his unit.

“Each one of you may not follow in the same path as mine,” said Akers as he looked out at the young pilots. “But when the Nation calls, you will generate your own story and experiences.”

Akers was sure to remind the Air Force’s newest aviators that all aircrafts play an important role in the mission. He shared his story of the tanker support to the F-22 International Dateline incident that happened in 2007. Informing the group that a KC-10 saved six F-22’s and brought them back safely to Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.

“As U.S. Air Force pilots, you all are a part of what’s next,” said Akers. “For when the nation calls, and it will, you are the warriors America will depend on going into the future.”

The newly graduated aviators will embark on their next journey, continuing onward to their assigned bases and starting training on their designated aircraft.

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.