RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
The 12th Flying Training Wing hosted 13 U.S. Air Force Academy cadets as a part of the Operation Air Force summer program. The wing hosted two rotations of cadets, all preparing to enter their third year at the Academy, from June 19 to July 7 and July 10 to 28.
"The purpose of the program is to give the cadets exposure to the Air Force and a small taste of what life is like on active duty," said Maj. Andrew Landwer, who ran this year's program for the 12th FTW.
During their visit, the cadets received briefings and tours from units at Randolph and across Joint Base San Antonio including the 359th Medical Group, the 559th Flying Training Squadron and the 902nd Security Forces Squadron.
Each of the cadets also received orientation flights in 12th FTW aircraft, spent time with members of security forces at Camp Bullis working through a mock combat scenario, and also had the opportunity to observe Basic Military Training events at Lackland Air Force Base.
"The total force aspect of Joint Base San Antonio really made this experience a great one for the cadets," said Landwer. "It was amazing to expose them to the vast capabilities of JBSA, and the amazing outstanding job the civilians, enlisted and officers from both the Air Force and the Army are doing every day."
While the visit confirmed the career aspirations of some cadets, it brought others a new perspective.
"Initially, I wanted to go into developmental engineering," said Cadet 2nd Class Kyle Tatum. "But after the orientation flight, I want to be a pilot."
The cadets also had the opportunity to talk with Randolph leadership, including Col. Richard Murphy, 12th FTW commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Steven Jones, 12th FTW command chief.
During their off time, the cadets got to venture into the greater San Antonio area.
"The visit has been a re-motivator for me," said Cadet 2nd Class Brady Lukas. "After two years at the academy, it's easy to get bogged down in the academics, but this reminded me of the end goal."
Depending on their summer schedule, the cadets will go back to the Academy to assist with Basic Military Training for the incoming freshman class, leave for combat skills training, or go on leave.