Our 14th FTW patch Published March 12, 2012 By 2nd Lt. Robert Dawson 14th Student Squadron COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- To the casual observer, the wing patch of the 14th Flying Training Wing appears as little more than an awkward Star Trek clone. On the contrary, a little investigation into the subject will reveal that our wing patch is full of inspiring symbols that are reminiscent of a rich history of legendary heroism. In its lifetime, the 14th FTW has also been the 14th Fighter Wing of WWII and the 14th Air Commando Wing and 14th Special Operations Wing of Vietnam, the heritage of which can be found on the patch. During WWII we were the 14th Fighter Group. Four of the squadrons still belong to the wing today and include the 37th, 48th, 49th, and 50th. After patrolling the western coast of the United States in P-38's, we helped escort bombers to enemy targets in France. A year later the 14th found itself in North Africa providing escort, strafing, and reconnaissance missions. In 1943 the 14th performed dive bombing missions on Pantelleria Island, resulting in the eventual capture of Sicily. During the Vietnam War, the 14th produced numerous Medal of Honor recipients, including Major Bernard Fisher, 1Lt James Fleming, and A1C John Levitow. This heritage is ingrained on our patch. The white over black shield over two crossed laurel branches serves as a daily reminder of the honors and battle credits mentioned above and carried by the wing. The white stylized plane represents our peaceful humanitarian mission and the red plane symbolizes the tactical power employed in close air support, ground support, search and rescue, and armed reconnaissance our wing conducted as a special operations unit. The stars represent the excellence with which we perform our mission and the blue represents the sky in which we perform. As you continue your journey in the Air Force, remember those who have sacrificed to give us this legendary heritage, and carry with you the fervor to live up to its name.