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39th FTS

U.S. Air Force•1 member

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About this Unit

39th FTS

U.S. Air Force

The **39th Flying Training Squadron (39th FTS)** is a United States Air Force unit with a distinguished history dating back to World War II. Originally activated in 1941 as the 39th Pursuit Squadron, it flew combat missions in the Pacific Theater, earning numerous campaign streamers for its service. After periods of inactivation and redesignation, the squadron was reactivated in its current form to serve as a flying training unit at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. Today, the 39th FTS plays a critical role in training and preparing Air Force pilots, ensuring operational excellence for future generations.

About 39th FTS

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Origins in World War II: The 39th Flying Training Squadron (FTS) traces its lineage back to World War II, where it was originally activated as the 39th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1942.
Role in the Pacific Theater: During WWII, the squadron was integral to airlift operations in the South and Southwest Pacific, supporting campaigns in New Guinea, the Philippines, and the liberation of the Philippines.
Aircraft Flown: Over its history, the squadron has flown a variety of aircraft including the C-47 Skytrain, C-46 Commando, and modern T-1A Jayhawk for training.
Distinguished Unit Citation: The 39th Troop Carrier Squadron earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions during the Papuan campaign in 1942-1943.
Berlin Airlift Connection: After WWII, the squadron participated in the Berlin Airlift, helping to supply the blockaded city with vital goods between 1948 and 1949.
Transition to Training: In 1990, the 39th was re-designated as a Flying Training Squadron, tasked with instructing U.S. Air Force pilots at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas.
“The Cobras” Nickname: The unit is nicknamed “Cobras,” and its emblem features a coiled cobra, symbolizing readiness and precision.
International Training: The 39th FTS has trained not only U.S. Air Force pilots but also aviators from allied nations, contributing to global coalition partnerships.
Operational Excellence: The squadron has been recognized multiple times for its safety and training record, earning awards such as the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.
Current Mission: Today, the 39th FTS operates T-1A Jayhawk aircraft, providing advanced pilot training for students destined for airlift and tanker assignments, continuing a legacy of air mobility excellence.

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39th FTS

U.S. Air Force•1 member

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About this Unit

39th FTS

U.S. Air Force

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Anthony Mclarty

U.S. Air Force · 1981 - 1982

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About 39th FTS

About this Unit

Historical Facts

Origins in World War II: The 39th Flying Training Squadron (FTS) traces its lineage back to World War II, where it was originally activated as the 39th Troop Carrier Squadron in 1942.
Role in the Pacific Theater: During WWII, the squadron was integral to airlift operations in the South and Southwest Pacific, supporting campaigns in New Guinea, the Philippines, and the liberation of the Philippines.
Aircraft Flown: Over its history, the squadron has flown a variety of aircraft including the C-47 Skytrain, C-46 Commando, and modern T-1A Jayhawk for training.
Distinguished Unit Citation: The 39th Troop Carrier Squadron earned a Distinguished Unit Citation for its actions during the Papuan campaign in 1942-1943.
Berlin Airlift Connection: After WWII, the squadron participated in the Berlin Airlift, helping to supply the blockaded city with vital goods between 1948 and 1949.
Transition to Training: In 1990, the 39th was re-designated as a Flying Training Squadron, tasked with instructing U.S. Air Force pilots at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas.
“The Cobras” Nickname: The unit is nicknamed “Cobras,” and its emblem features a coiled cobra, symbolizing readiness and precision.
International Training: The 39th FTS has trained not only U.S. Air Force pilots but also aviators from allied nations, contributing to global coalition partnerships.
Operational Excellence: The squadron has been recognized multiple times for its safety and training record, earning awards such as the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.
Current Mission: Today, the 39th FTS operates T-1A Jayhawk aircraft, providing advanced pilot training for students destined for airlift and tanker assignments, continuing a legacy of air mobility excellence.