Robinson Assumes Command

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  • By Story by Randy Martin, 12th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs Chief
Hangar 4 was packed with friends and family July 27, 2018 to welcome the 12th Flying Training Wing’s new commander.

Col. Mark Robinson assumed command on a stage flanked by aircraft and in front of four formations of Airmen. Each represented the wing’s groups which conduct or support flying training at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph as well as the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and Naval Air Station - Pensacola, in Pensacola, Florida.

“I can’t think of anyone better to take the reins and continue to lead this awesome wing,” said Col. Travis Willis, 19th Air Force Vice Commander. Willis listed Robinson’s accomplishments as he presided over the ceremony.

Robinson received a commission from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1996. He attended undergraduate pilot training at Columbus Air Force Base in Columbus, Mississippi. He then served in numerous leadership positions throughout his career. Robinson recently returned from a deployment where he was the Vice Commander for the 380th Expeditionary Wing in Al Dhafra Air Base, United Arab Emirates.

“Training Airman in the fundamentals of airmanship, innovation, and leadership will remain my focus as your commander,” said Robinson in his remarks after receiving the wing’s flag from Willis.

Brig. Gen. Joel Carey relinquished command May 19, 2018 and was subsequently deployed. Col. Randy Oakland, the 12th FTW’s current vice commander, assumed command in the interim.

“Our nation is counting on us to remain the source of America’s air power. So to that end, let’s get to work,” said Robinson.

The ceremony concluded with the ceremonial reveal of Robinson’s name, etched on the side of a white T-1A Jayhawk followed by the singing of the Air Force Song.