Joint Base San Antonio – Lackland (JBSA-Lackland), located in western San Antonio, Texas, is famously known as the “Gateway to the Air Force.” As a critical component of the nation’s largest joint base, JBSA-Lackland’s primary mission, led by the 37th Training Wing (37 TRW) under Air Education and Training Command (AETC), is to conduct Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) for all enlisted Airmen. Every year, tens of thousands of new recruits begin their Air Force journey here, transforming from civilians into disciplined Airmen.

Beyond BMT, JBSA-Lackland is a hub for extensive technical training. The 37th Training Wing also provides advanced technical instruction in a multitude of career fields, including security forces, combat control, pararescue, SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) specialists, and cryptologic disciplines. Furthermore, the Inter-American Air Forces Academy (IAAFA) fosters international cooperation by providing military education and training to students from Latin American partner nations.

JBSA-Lackland is also home to the 59th Medical Wing (59 MDW) and its premier medical facility, the Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, one of the largest outpatient surgical centers in the DoD. Additionally, the Texas Air National Guard’s 149th Fighter Wing, flying F-16 Fighting Falcons, operates out of Kelly Field, which is now part of the JBSA-Lackland complex. Installation support for all these diverse missions is provided by the Air Force-led 502nd Air Base Wing, which serves all of JBSA.

The sheer volume of trainees and students creates a dynamic and bustling environment at JBSA-Lackland. The base plays an unparalleled role in forging the future of the U.S. Air Force and strengthening international partnerships. Personnel and families stationed here are part of the vibrant San Antonio community, with access to a wide array of cultural, historical, and recreational activities that the city offers.