ABOUT 3334th BMTS
- Basic Mission: The 3334th Basic Military Training Squadron (BMTS) was responsible for training new Air Force recruits at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, during the Vietnam War era and beyond.
- Vietnam War Era: The 3334th BMTS was one of several squadrons activated to handle the surge in recruit numbers during the Vietnam War, reflecting the rapid expansion of the U.S. Air Force during this period.
- Distinctive Unit Insignia: The squadron had its own distinctive unit insignia, which often featured symbols representing strength, teamwork, and Air Force heritage.
- Drill Instructors: Training instructors of the 3334th BMTS were known for their strict discipline and dedication, shaping countless civilians into Airmen through rigorous physical and mental training.
- Squadron Motto: Many alumni recall the unit’s unofficial motto: “First in, Last out, Always Ready,” reflecting their pride and commitment to excellence in training.
- Squadron Dormitories: The 3334th BMTS occupied specific dormitories at Lackland AFB, with each flight living and training together, fostering unit cohesion and camaraderie.
- Women in Training: The unit was among those that began integrating female recruits into basic training in the 1970s, marking a significant step in gender integration for the Air Force.
- Graduation Parade: The squadron participated in the iconic “Airman’s Run” and weekly graduation parades, a highlight for recruits and their families, symbolizing the transition from civilian to Airman.
- Notable Alumni: Several graduates of the 3334th BMTS went on to achieve high ranks and distinguished careers in the Air Force, citing the squadron’s training as foundational to their success.
- Deactivation and Legacy: The 3334th BMTS was eventually deactivated as part of restructuring in the 1990s, but its legacy lives on through reunions, online groups, and the memories of its former trainees and instructors.