About this Unit
The 64th Flying Training Wing (64th FTW) was an important unit of the United States Air Force, primarily responsible for undergraduate pilot training. Activated in the mid-1970s at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, the wing oversaw several flying training squadrons, including the 64th Student Squadron (64th StuSq), which managed administrative and support functions for student pilots. The wing played a crucial role in preparing thousands of Air Force aviators during its years of operation. The 64th FTW was inactivated in 1997 following the closure of Reese AFB as part of post-Cold War realignments.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War II: The 64th Flying Training Wing (FTW) traces its lineage back to the 64th Troop Carrier Group, which was activated in 1940 and served in multiple theaters during World War II, including North Africa, Sicily, and Italy.
•
Aircraft Variety: Over its history, the unit has operated a wide variety of aircraft, from C-47 Skytrains in WWII to T-37 Tweets and T-38 Talons during its flying training mission.
•
Distinguished Service: The 64th participated in key operations such as Operation Husky (Sicily invasion) and Operation Dragoon (Southern France invasion), earning multiple Distinguished Unit Citations.
•
Reactivation for Training: The 64th Flying Training Wing was reactivated in 1972 at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, focusing on undergraduate pilot training for the United States Air Force.
•
64th Student Squadron (64th StuSq): This squadron was responsible for the day-to-day training, support, and administration of student pilots within the 64th FTW.
•
International Training: The 64th FTW trained not only U.S. Air Force pilots but also pilots from allied nations, contributing to international military cooperation and partnership.
•
Closure of Reese AFB: In 1997, Reese AFB and the 64th FTW were inactivated as part of post-Cold War base realignment and closure decisions.
•
Legacy of Excellence: During its 25 years as a training wing, the 64th FTW graduated over 12,000 pilots, many of whom went on to become leaders in the Air Force.
•
Unit Emblem: The wing's emblem featured a stylized aircraft and lightning bolt, representing speed, precision, and the mission of training the next generation of aviators.
•
Alumni Achievements: Numerous graduates of the 64th FTW have served in combat operations, become general officers, and contributed to NASA space exploration missions.
