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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

635th MMS training shop showcases EALS capabilities

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Isaiah Pedrazzini
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M.-- The 635th Materiel Maintenance Squadron training shop is responsible for maintaining the Basic Expeditionary Airfield Resources contingency equipment used to construct temporary bases on deployments or missions.

The training shop instructs Airmen from across the Air Force on logistics and supply tactics, with one of their primary focuses being the Expeditionary Aircraft Lighting System. This system is crucial as it enables Airmen to swiftly establish temporary landing areas for aircraft in diverse operational scenarios.

“We're moving away from an extremely basic series circuit to a more modern EALS system that utilizes solar power,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Dallas Hensley, 635th Materiel Maintenance Squadron contingency training noncommissioned officer in charge. “This new system is safer and much more efficient, making our operations more effective.”

EALS courses like the one at BEAR Base are available nationwide, allowing civil engineers from installations like Hill AFB, Moody AFB, and Hurlburt Field, to learn about EALS systems. This ensures electricians and engineers across the Air Force receive essential airfield lighting training.

“There are currently five sites that are currently conducting this class,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Brianna Gonzales, 635th MMG electrical systems supervisor. “These sites are strategically located to ensure accessible training for Air Force personnel, this ensures an organization-wide step toward a more lethal and ready force.”

Training opportunities like these are crucial in deployed environments as EALS lighting systems provide a safe location for aircraft to land and take off from.

The mission at BEAR Base is to deploy “anywhere, anytime, at a moment’s notice”, and this course has allowed these Airmen to further prove that statement.

“As electricians, it's our primary responsibility for maintaining systems critical for airfield operations,” said Hensley. “It's our job to ensure that jets can take off and land safely, regardless of where we are in the world.”

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.