About this Unit
Training Command at Lackland Air Force Base, located in San Antonio, Texas, has played a pivotal role in shaping the United States Air Force since its establishment during World War II. Originally activated as part of the Army Air Forces, Lackland became known as the "Gateway to the Air Force," serving as the primary site for Basic Military Training (BMT) for enlisted personnel. Over the decades, Training Command at Lackland has expanded its mission to include technical training, leadership development, and joint service instruction, adapting to the evolving needs of the Air Force. Its legacy is reflected in the millions of Airmen who have launched their military careers from its grounds.
Historical Facts
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Birthplace of Air Force Basic Training: Lackland Air Force Base, now part of Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, has been the primary site for U.S. Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) since 1946, earning it the nickname "Gateway to the Air Force."
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Named for a WWII Hero: The base is named after Brigadier General Frank D. Lackland, a pioneer military aviator who was instrumental in the development of the Air Force.
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Training Command Evolution: The Training Command at Lackland has undergone many name changes, reflecting its evolving mission—from Army Air Forces Indoctrination Training Center to Air Training Command, and eventually Air Education and Training Command (AETC).
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Largest Training Base: Lackland AFB is the largest training base in the U.S. Air Force, training over 35,000 recruits annually in BMT alone.
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Home to Unique Units: Lackland is home to the 37th Training Wing, which oversees BMT, technical training, and specialized schools such as the Defense Language Institute English Language Center.
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Canine Heroes: The 341st Training Squadron at Lackland is responsible for training all Department of Defense military working dogs and handlers, making it the "Dog School" of the U.S. military.
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International Connections: The base regularly hosts international students from allied countries for language and technical training, fostering global military cooperation.
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Historic Graduations: Millions of Airmen have graduated from Lackland's BMT since 1946, including notable alumni such as Astronaut John W. Young and Medal of Honor recipient William H. Pitsenbarger.
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Vietnam War Era: During the Vietnam War, Lackland rapidly expanded to accommodate the surge in recruits, at one point training up to 100,000 Airmen per year.
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Not Just Airmen: While primarily known for Air Force training, Lackland has also trained personnel for the Army Air Forces, Women’s Army Corps, and even the U.S. Space Force in recent years.
