JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
In a ceremony steeped in military tradition, Lt. Col. Timothy Fulkerson relinquished command of the 560th Flying Training Squadron to Lt. Col. Joshua Stallard on Dec. 16, 2024, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas
The event marked the end of Fulkerson’s tenure as commander of the squadron, during which he oversaw advanced pilot training operations essential to producing skilled aviators for the United States Air Force. Addressing the gathered audience of Airmen, families, and distinguished guests, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the “Chargin’ Cheetahs.”
“Trust is the currency of organizational progress,” Fulkerson said. “Cheetahs, you have earned my full trust and confidence with your high standards of performance, discipline in the jet, as well as a culture of brotherhood and your mutual respect of our upgrade instructors in the squadron, which has allowed us to accomplish so much together.”
The ceremony included the traditional passing of the squadron guidon, symbolizing the transfer of responsibility, authority, and accountability from the outgoing commander to his successor. Col. John P. Anderson, Commander of the 12th Operations Group, presided over the event.
Stallard, who previously served as the deputy commander of the 12th Operations Group, expressed his enthusiasm for assuming command of the squadron.
“To the Cheetahs, I'm honored to be giving the opportunity to help impart our knowledge, experience our innovative techniques to the next generation of T-38 instructors who will go on to forge the next generation of Air Force pilots.”
The 560th Flying Training Squadron, known for its motto “Once a Cheetah, Always a Cheetah,” plays a critical role in the Air Education and Training Command’s mission by conducting Pilot Instructor Training and instructor pilot requalification programs.
The ceremony concluded with a round of applause for both leaders and a reaffirmation of the squadron’s commitment to its vital mission. The change of command ceremony underscored the Air Force’s enduring dedication to developing leaders and advancing air power