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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

Articles

Empowering Airmen for Mental Health Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Devyn Waits
  • 81st Training Wing Public Affairs

Since 1949, May has been nationally designated as Mental Health Awareness Month in an effort to break the stigma around discussing mental health and celebrate recovery from mental illness.

For military members, the month is also about taking ownership and doing what is necessary to possess a sound mind for optimal performance as an individual and warfighter.

“This month gives individuals an opportunity to reflect on how they’re doing,” said Maj. Mary Anne Dueitt, 81st Medical Group mental health element chief. “As one of the four pillars of comprehensive airman fitness, mental health must be maintained through a series of healthy behaviors like eating well, exercising and getting proper sleep.”

Maintenance is vital because inadequate mental fitness can detrimentally influence multiple facets of a service member’s life, potentially compromising both their quality of life and mission readiness.

“We need to be mentally ready wherever we are, otherwise we can’t deploy downrange, complete the mission at home or even be a very active member in our own lives,” said Master Sgt. Katrina Larson, 81st Medical Group mental health flight chief.

Preparing for the unpredictability of military life is an essential aspect of maintaining mental health.

“The military is going to issue orders at the last minute. There are people who receive a two-weeks’ notice for a deployment lasting six to twelve months, or a six-week long temporary deployment. Those aspects of service take a toll on us and our families. If you're already not in a good place, going through one of those instances will absolutely worsen your mental state,” said Larson.

There are a plethora of preventative actions and resources to maintain your mental health. Between on-base resources like Behavioral Health at the 81st Medical Group or globally available resources via Military OneSource and Mental Health: An Overview for Service Member, members can be empowered to make changes in their lives and recognize when they need help maintaining their psychological well-being.

“Prevention has many different forms,” said Larson. “It could be a hobby they've always wanted to try, like pottery classes. Maybe it's going on a weekly walk with your spouse or making weekly calls to your family. We're encouraging everyone to seek resources, seek things that they enjoy then share that passion with others because you never know if the person next to you is struggling.”

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.