About this Unit
**Basic/Tech School** serves as a foundational training unit primarily within the United States Air Force and other service branches. Established to provide newly enlisted personnel with essential military discipline and technical skills, Basic Military Training (BMT) began at locations such as Lackland Air Force Base during World War II. Upon completion of BMT, airmen proceed to Technical School, where they receive specialized instruction in their designated career fields, ranging from aircraft maintenance to cybersecurity. Over the decades, Basic/Tech School has continually adapted its curriculum to meet evolving operational demands, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for both military life and their technical roles.
Historical Facts
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Origin of Basic Training: Modern basic training in the U.S. military began during World War I, when the influx of draftees required a standardized system to quickly prepare civilians for military service.
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Branch Differences: Each U.S. military branch has its own basic training, ranging from the Army’s Basic Combat Training (BCT) to the Air Force’s Basic Military Training (BMT), each with unique traditions and requirements.
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Tech School Explained: After basic training, many service members attend technical school—such as the Air Force's “Tech School”—where they receive specialized instruction for their assigned career field.
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The “Rainbow Flight”: In Air Force Basic Training, new recruits are called “Rainbows” because their civilian clothing creates a colorful group before they receive uniforms.
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Physical Challenges: The Marine Corps’ “Crucible” is a legendary 54-hour final test of basic training that includes food and sleep deprivation, teamwork exercises, and a 9-mile hike.
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Historic Integration: In 1948, President Truman’s Executive Order 9981 led to the desegregation of U.S. military units, including basic and technical training, paving the way for integrated training environments.
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Wartime Acceleration: During World War II, some basic training programs were shortened to as little as four weeks to meet the demand for troops, compared to today’s average of 8-12 weeks.
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“Tech School Towns”: Bases like Sheppard Air Force Base and Fort Lee are known as “tech school towns” because thousands of students cycle through each year for advanced technical training.
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Graduation Traditions: Many basic training graduations include family days, coin ceremonies, and parades—milestones that mark the transition from recruit to service member.
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Famous Alumni: Numerous notable figures began their military careers in basic/tech school, including Medal of Honor recipients, astronauts, and even future presidents.
