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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.

 

 

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Articles

324th TRS dedicates training complex to fallen Airman

  • Published
  • By Logan Steele
  • 37th Training Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas --  

The 324th Training Squadron held a Remembrance Ceremony and Building Dedication in honor of Airman 1st Class Elizabeth N. Jacobson, April 4.

The Remembrance Ceremony and Building Dedication memorialized Jacobson by officially renaming the 324th Training Squadron Complex to the Jacobson Training Complex and culminated in the unveiling of a plaque dedicating the building to her and her legacy. Jacobson’s family was in attendance.

A military unit is in formation in front of a knight statue and memorial plaque.

Defenders from across Joint Base San Antonio stand at a memorial to honor Airman First Class Elizabeth Jacobson April 4, 2025, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Jacobson was the first Defender killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The 324th Training Squadron complex was dedicated with a memorial in her honor. (U.S. Air Force photo by Vanessa R. Adame)
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“There’s no more important building to dedicate to a fallen Airman than a training complex here at Basic Military Training,” said Lt. Col. Charles Dieterle, Commander of the 324 TRS, during the ceremony. “This is a foundational place where all Airmen learn about the Air Force.”

Jacobson was a security forces Airman who answered the call of duty in 2003 and started her career as a trainee in the 324 TRS. On September 28, at the age of 21, Jacobson was killed by an improvised explosive device while providing security on a convoy in Iraq. She was the first security forces Airman killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The ceremony focused on Jacobson’s legacy and impact at the 324 TRS. Her story continues to be part of the identity and culture of the training squadron, being taught to every trainee that is assigned there, serving as a shining example of the qualities that all Airmen should strive for.

“Elizabeth’s legacy continues to inspire and remind us of what values she embodied,” said 324 TRS Senior Enlisted Leader, Chief Master Sergeant Tiffany Jackson-Foster, during her remarks, “Her discipline, dedication, and grit serves as a beacon of strength and honor for all of us to follow.”

Jacobson's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Combat Action Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Iraq Campaign Medal. 

commander stands in front of crowd at a podium

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Lt. Col. Charles Dieterle, commander of the 324th Training Squadron, speaks during a building dedication on April 4, 2025, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, to honor Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Jacobson. Jacobson was the first Defender killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Vanessa R. Adame)
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Two people look in a display case.

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Family members of Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Jacobson point to items in a memorial to honor Jacobson on April 4, 2025, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. The 324th Training Squadron complex was dedicated with a memorial to honor Jacobson, who was the first Defender killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Vanessa R. Adame)
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Two military members present a gift to a family in front of the 324th Training Squadron emblem

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Lt. Col. Robert Chance, commander of the 343rd Training Squadron and Chief Master Sgt. Wes Lawrence, Senior Enlisted Leader of the 343rd Training Squadron present a gift to the family of Airman First Class Elizabeth Jacobson, April 4, 2025, at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Jacobson was the first Defender killed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The 324th Training Squadron complex was dedicated in her honor with a memorial. (U.S. Air Force photo by Vanessa R. Adame)
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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.