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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

Air University grants Newt Gingrich honorary degree

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Savannah L. Waters
  • Maxwell Air Force Base Public Affairs
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  

Air University awarded former Speaker of the House and prominent American politician, historian and author Newt Gingrich an honorary doctorate at a formal ceremony Sept. 12. 

Lt. Gen. Andrea D. Tullos, Air University commander and president, presented the honorary degree to Gingrich, who served as the 50th speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1995 to 1999. 

“To be honored by you is truly one of the most humbling things of my entire career,” said Gingrich. “To be down here with you is one of the things I enjoy most, and I cannot tell you from the bottom of my heart how deeply grateful I am that you allow me to be here with you and to be an honorary doctorate.” 

Gingrich is the longest-serving instructor of the Joint Flag Officer Warfighting Course for major generals. He also teaches officers from all five services as a distinguished visiting scholar and professor at the National Defense University and is the longest-serving instructor at Capstone. 

“Speaker Gingrich has supported our Joint Flag Officer Warfighting Course without fail since 1983,” said Maj. Gen. Parker H. Wright, commander of the Curtis E. LeMay Center for Doctrine Development and Education and Air University deputy commander. “That’s 42 years of uninterrupted support to Air University, during which he educated countless flag and general officers who would go on to lead at the pinnacle of their services and joint commands.” 

Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the House, poses for a photo with Airmen attending his honorary doctorate ceremony

Newt Gingrich, Former Speaker of the House, poses for a photo with Airmen attending his honorary doctorate ceremony at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama,
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U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Andrea D. Tullos, Air University commander and president, awarded an honorary doctorate from Air University to Newt Gingrich,

U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Andrea D. Tullos, Air University commander and president, awarded an honorary doctorate from Air University to Newt Gingrich, American politician, historian and author, at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama
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Newt Gingrich, American politician, historian and author, is adorned with his doctorate hood after being presented with his honorary doctorate from Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama

Newt Gingrich, American politician, historian and author, is adorned with his doctorate hood after being presented with his honorary doctorate from Air University at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama
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With a master’s degree and a doctorate in European history from Tulane University, Gingrich is recognized internationally as an expert on world history, military issues and international affairs. 

“He is unmatched in his ability to integrate current policy debates, military history and joint warfighting doctrine with humility and wit,” Wright said. “Our students have all benefited mightily from his years of selfless contributions. We are profoundly grateful for the speaker’s support and commitment to Air University’s mission, our Airmen and the nation.” 

Gingrich is a Fox News contributor, podcast host and columnist. He is the author of 43 books, including 18 New York Times bestsellers in fiction and nonfiction.

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.