81st Training Wing, Keesler Air Force Base, MS Challenge Coin

81st Training Wing, Keesler Air Force Base, MS Challenge Coin

• 1 3/4 inch (44mm) Round
• Nickel with Enamel

This Keesler AFB, MS, challenge coin salutes Keesler AFB as host to the largest technical training group in the United States Air Force. Home of Headquarters, Second Air Force, and the 81st Training Wing of the Air Education and Training Command (AETC), at any one time Keesler has almost 5,000 students on base. Second Air Force's responsibility is to oversee all technical training conducted within the Training Command; the 81st Training Wing responsibility is to conduct that high-technology training.<br /><br />Since its creation in 1941, Keesler AFB has been the leader in technical training, and the enormity of its output is staggering: as long ago as 1968, Keesler graduated its one millionth student. Today, avionics maintenance, radio and radar systems maintenance, communications electronics, computer systems programming and maintenance, air traffic control, and weather training are but a few of the main specialties taught.<br /><br />The Keesler AFB coin features recessed and semi-sandblasted surfaces, highlighted with rich enamels. The obverse is the 81st Training Wing insignia, surrounded by "The Largest Technical Training Group in the Air Force." The reverse is the United States Air Force emblem.