JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- In a ceremony held on May 22, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Lt. Col. Benjamin Peacock assumed command of the 559th Flying Training Squadron, succeeding Lt. Col. Chad Bridgeford. The event marked a significant leadership transition within one of the Air Force’s premier flight training units.
The 559th Flying Training Squadron, a key component of the 12th Flying Training Wing, is responsible for training instructor pilots for the T-6A Texan II aircraft. These instructors go on to prepare the next generation of Air Force aviators.
The change of command ceremony — a long-standing military tradition — featured the symbolic passing of the squadron guidon, representing the transfer of command authority and responsibility. The event was attended by squadron members, Wing leadership, family members, and distinguished guests.
Lt. Col. Bridgeford, who led the squadron through pivotal training initiatives and operational accomplishments, expressed deep pride in his time as commander. “Being given the opportunity to lead the Goats was humbling, and I viewed my time in command of the Goats as a steward of something that was entrusted to me to maintain and improve,” Bridgeford said. “We ramped up flying, codified the Goat culture, held the standard for T-6 Nation, re-wrote the book on how to fly the T-6, and had a lot of fun together! I’ll remember my time in the Goats as an opportunity to live life alongside the best group of officers and aviators. No matter the challenge, the Goats were there.”
Incoming commander Lt. Col. Peacock brings a strong record of leadership and operational experience to his new role. In his remarks, he acknowledged the importance of the squadron’s mission and his excitement to join the team.
“My family and I are extremely excited to serve in the 559th and to be a part of the herd,” said Peacock. “We have such a fantastic squadron, and it is an incredible honor to take command. I'm incredibly grateful for the team that we have and appreciate all that Lt. Col. Bridgeford has done for the Goats.”
The 559th FTS is part of the 12th Flying Training Wing, which is responsible for training warfighters for America. Through a combination of instructor pilot training, combat systems officer training, and remotely piloted aircraft pilot instruction, the wing plays a critical role in preparing mission-ready Airmen across a wide range of specialties.
JBSA-Randolph, often referred to as “the Showplace of the Air Force,” serves as the headquarters for the Air Education and Training Command. With units like the 559th FTS, the base plays a central role in shaping the future of military aviation through world-class instruction and mentorship.
This leadership transition highlights the Air Force’s enduring commitment to readiness and professional development, ensuring continued excellence in flight training and instruction.