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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

Easterling accepts command of Firebirds

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica Haynie
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  

Lt. Col. Jason Barlow relinquished command of the 43rd Flying Training Squadron to Lt. Col. David Easterling Jr., during a change of command ceremony, Aug. 26, 2021, on Columbus Air Force Base, Miss.

Easterling is a seasoned pilot with over 5,600 flying hours in the T-38 Talon, at Randolph AFB, Texas, Williams AFB, Arizona, and Columbus AFB, Mississippi.

“Firebirds, you are why we are the best squadron in the Air Force,” said Easterling. “Dedication, expertise, longevity. Those are just a few of the qualities that make you amazing. You are why I am still in the Reserves. It is an honor and privilege to be your commander.”

The 43rd FTS administers and executes the Air Education and Training Command, Air Force Reserve Command, Associate and Instructor Pilot (IP) Program. The program provides Active Guard Reserve and Traditional Reserve IPs to augment the resident active duty instructor pilots conducting pilot training.

Barlow is a career pilot has been flying for approximately 21 years and was the first T-6 instructor pilot at Columbus Air Force Base , spending the majority of his career with the 43rd Firebirds, working his way through the ranks and eventually becoming the Squadron commander.

“Firebirds, you are the reason we do what we do,” said Barlow, out-going 43rd FTS commander “It has been truly an honor and I appreciate 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.