About this Unit
The 3706th Basic Military Training Squadron (BMTS) was a unit of the United States Air Force based at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Established during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for providing basic military training to thousands of Air Force recruits each year. Throughout its history, the 3706 BMTS played a critical role in shaping enlisted personnel, instilling discipline, and preparing airmen for their future assignments. The squadron was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes within Air Force basic training operations.
Historical Facts
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3706th Basic Military Training Squadron (BMTS): The 3706th BMTS was one of the squadrons at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, responsible for conducting basic training for new United States Air Force enlistees.
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Active for Decades: The 3706th BMTS was active for several decades, playing a key role in shaping generations of Airmen before its inactivation during organizational restructures in the early 1990s.
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Flight Mascots: Many flights under the 3706th BMTS chose unique mascots and flight names, fostering camaraderie and esprit de corps among trainees.
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Parade Ground Traditions: Graduating flights from the 3706th participated in weekly parade ground ceremonies, a proud moment for trainees and their families.
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Squadron Dormitories: The unit’s dormitories were located in the “old” Recruit Housing and Training (RHT) complexes, known for their distinctive archways and open-air design.
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Unit Motto: The 3706th BMTS was known for instilling the Air Force core values of Integrity, Service, and Excellence in all its trainees.
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Distinctive Guidon: The squadron’s guidon (unit flag) was a source of pride, carried at the front of each flight during marches and reviews.
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Vietnam War Era: During the Vietnam War, the 3706th BMTS saw a surge in recruits, processing and training thousands of young men and women for service.
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“Rainbow Flights”: Trainees who arrived at Lackland before being assigned to permanent flights were temporarily grouped into “rainbow flights,” a tradition overseen by units like the 3706th.
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Legacy and Alumni: Many former trainees of the 3706th BMTS have gone on to distinguished military and civilian careers, and alumni often recall their time in the unit as transformative and memorable.
