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ABOUT Air Base Ground Defense Training (ABGD) Camp Bullis, TX
- Origins in WWII: The Air Base Ground Defense (ABGD) concept originated during World War II, when U.S. airfields overseas became targets for enemy ground attacks, highlighting the need for specialized defensive training for airmen.
- Strategic Location: Camp Bullis, located near San Antonio, Texas, has served as a vital training ground for U.S. military forces since 1917, providing an ideal environment for ABGD exercises due to its varied terrain and size (over 27,000 acres).
- Security Forces Training Hub: ABGD training at Camp Bullis is a critical component of the U.S. Air Force Security Forces' curriculum, teaching airmen to defend air bases against ground threats through both classroom instruction and realistic field exercises.
- Live-Fire Exercises: The ABGD course includes live-fire drills and simulated attacks, allowing trainees to practice using weapons and tactics under stressful, combat-like conditions.
- Teamwork and Leadership: The program emphasizes small-unit tactics, communication, and leadership skills, preparing Security Forces to operate effectively in squad-sized teams during base defense operations.
- Integration with Other Branches: Camp Bullis hosts joint training exercises involving Air Force, Army, and other military branches, fostering interoperability and mutual support in base defense scenarios.
- “Devil’s Den” Training Area: One of the most challenging parts of Camp Bullis is known as the “Devil’s Den,” a rugged area where ABGD trainees navigate difficult terrain while under simulated attack, testing their endurance and tactical skills.
- Adaptation to Modern Threats: The ABGD curriculum is regularly updated to address evolving threats such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), insider attacks, and drone incursions, ensuring airmen are prepared for contemporary battlefield realities.
- Historical Significance: Over the decades, Camp Bullis has trained thousands of airmen and soldiers, many of whom went on to serve in major conflicts from the Korean War to modern operations in the Middle East.
- Commemorative Traditions: Graduates of the ABGD course at Camp Bullis often participate in a final “Warrior Run” and receive a special patch or coin, symbolizing their readiness to defend Air Force installations anywhere in the world.