Guide to Lackland Air Force Base
The Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas provides basic military training for Air Force recruits. Lackland Air Force Base also lays claim to the Inter-American Air Forces Academy, the Defense Language Institute English Language Center and Wilford Hall Medical Center, the Air Force's largest medical facility. Originally known as the San Antonio Aviation Cadet Center, Lackland Air Force Base was created from a section of Kelly Field in 1942.
Construction on Lackland Air Force Base began in 1941, and it was originally part of Kelly Field. One year later, it became an independent organization--the San Antonio Aviation Cadet Center. In 1948, the facility was named Lackland AFB after Brigadier General Frank Lackland.
As a consequence of the Korean War training populations at Lackland soared. Temporary facilities, to include the "I" dormitories, were quickly and hastily erected as a quick fix to house the new recruits. During Vietnam, resourceful leaders split training shifts, increased flight sizes, and compressed training from 30 to 24 days to satisfy the urgency for military readiness. Training requirements also grew to include teaching English to allied military members from foreign countries.
For Visitors
Lackland Air Force Base is situated in southwestern San Antonio.
Visitors may enjoy browsing through one or both of San Antonio, Texas Lackland Air Force Base's military museums. The History and Traditions Museum offers a look at aircraft, engines and weapons dating as far back as World War I, while the Security Police Museum displays artifacts used by security forces. Throughout Lackland Air Force Base are static displays of several dozen airplanes, including the B-17 Flying Fortress, the P-38 Lightning and the P-82 Twin Mustang. The Gateway Historical Collection features photos and documents related to San Antonio's military aviation history, Lackland Air Force Base and Kelly Air Force Base (now closed). An Enlisted Art Gallery showcases artwork illustrating the enlisted experience.
Since Lackland AFB is very close to San Antonio, many visitors stay in one of the many hotels on the San Antonio Riverwalk. The San Antonio Riverwalk offers a very nice nightlife along with many fancy hotels. For more information on hotels near Lackland AFB go to Lackland Area Hotels or check out this good resource on the San Antonio Riverwalk, San Antonio Riverwalk Information.