Lackland Air Force Base is a major United States Air Force installation located in Bexar County, near San Antonio, Texas. It serves as the sole location for basic military training for all enlisted personnel entering the Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard.
This military base was established in 1942 and was originally called Camp Laredo. It was renamed Lackland Air Force Base in honor of Brigadier General Frank Lackland, who played a significant role in the development of the Air Force's basic military training program.
Lackland Air Force Base is spread over an expansive area of approximately eight square miles and houses various training facilities, dormitories, administrative buildings, and support services. It is a hub of activity, hosting thousands of new recruits every year and playing a crucial role in their initial military training and development.
The base's primary function is to provide comprehensive instruction, physical conditioning, and education to prepare recruits for the rigors of military service. The training covers a range of subjects, including military customs and courtesies, physical fitness, weapon handling, marksmanship, and drill and ceremony. In addition to basic military training, Lackland Air Force Base also offers specialized training programs in various careers within the Air Force, such as aircraft maintenance, security forces, and medical services.
As one of the largest military training centers in the world, Lackland Air Force Base holds a significant place in the United States Air Force infrastructure and has become synonymous with the initial training of Air Force recruits.
