Honorary commanders learn about life as a test pilot Published May 12, 2014 By Rebecca Amber Staff writer EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The new Edwards Honorary Commanders visited the home of flight test May 9 for the first time since their induction. The theme for the spring event was "The Test Pilot." Each HCC is paired with a commander on base to maintain good relationships between the Edwards community and the local Antelope Valley community and to "expand the family." At the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School, Brig. Gen. Michael Brewer, 412th Test Wing commander, briefed the honorary commanders on the 412th TW's mission. He explained, with the help of several short videos, that the mission of the Air Force is global vigilance, reach and power. Part of that mission they witnessed first-hand, when they went outside to see a B-1 Lancer, B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and a B-52; all from the 419th Flight Test Squadron. The B-1 presented a unique opportunity with the cockpit open for the honorary commanders to climb inside. The tour included aTest Pilot School mission brief and a look into the school's facilities including the control rooms and flight simulators. There, they learned what it takes to make it into the school, the extensive screening process and the level of commitment required to complete the rigorous program. At Hangar 1207, the group participated in a Life Support equipment demonstration. The tour was the first of several honorary commander events scheduled for this year.