557th FTS

The 557th Flying Training Squadron (557th FTS) is a United States Air Force unit with a lineage dating back to World War II. Originally activated as the 557th Bombardment Squadron in 1942, it flew B-26 Marauders in the European Theater, participating in numerous combat missions and earning several distinguished awards. After the war, the squadron underwent multiple redesignations and periods of inactivation before being reactivated in its current role. Today, the 557th FTS is based at the United States Air Force Academy, where it provides powered flight training to cadets, playing a critical role in developing future Air Force leaders.