LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- 87th Flying Training Squadron Airmen bid farewell to Lt. Col. Jonathan Radtke, 87th FTS outgoing commander, and welcomed their new commander, Lt. Col. James Hesson, 87th FTS incoming commander, during a change of command ceremony here, June 12, 2026.
Col. Eric Bissonette, 47th Flying Training Wing commander, presided over the ceremony, noting the pivotal role the 87th FTS plays as a producer in one of the largest pilot-producing bases in the Air Force.
“As you step into this new chapter with Lt. Col. Hesson, my charge to you is clear,” said Bissonette. “Continue to hold the line. Continue to forge the world’s greatest aviators and continue to execute with uncompromising excellence that is the Red Bull standard.”
Prior to assuming command Hesson served as a T-38C Evaluator Pilot and Director of Operations for the 25th Flying Training Squadron, Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma. As the commander of the 87th FTS, he oversees the execution of 18K aircraft and simulator sorties and 7.2K academic events and is responsible for the readiness and execution of daily flying operations for 71 aircrew, 11 support personnel, 63 aircraft worth $409M,producing over 100 fighter and bomber pilots for the Combat Air Force annually.
“I am honored to serve with you as your next commander,” said Hesson. “You have accomplished the impossible exceeded expectations and produced the world’s greatest aviators. Aviators who along with many of you will maintain our nation’s place as the preeminent world power for years to come.”
The 87th Fighter Interception Squadron was redesignated as the 87th Flying Training Squadron and activated on April 2, 1990, at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, flying the T-38A Talon advanced supersonic trainer. The squadron now flies the T-38C Talon, with a mission of training USAF and Allied officers to fly fighter and bomber aircraft as a component of the 47th Flying Training Wing.
“Red Bulls hold the line,” said Radtke. “Building combat ready Airmen, leaders and pilots every day. As talon drivers in the most prolific flying squadron, you are the cornerstone of America’s ability to generate combat air power.”
Radtke served as commander of the 87th FTS since May of 2024. He will go on to join the B-21 Raider program in Washington DC.
“I’m proud to have served with the Red Bulls hacking the mission to the very end... my time is complete,” said Radtke. “May your legacy of service continue to inspire the Red Bulls as they embark on the next chapter of their journey. Take the jet!”