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96th Flying Training Squadron [96th FTS]

The 96th Flying Training Squadron is a subordinate unit to the 340th Flying Training Group. The 96th is a Reserve Associate unit to Air Education and Training Command and is located at Laughlin AFB near Del Rio, TX.

The 96th Flying Training Squadron was first designated the 96th Pursuit Squadron (Interceptor), flying the P-38 "Lightning" and was activated on 9 February 1942 at Harding Field, LA. The 96th flew combat missions including bomber escort, strafing and bombing attack in both the European and Mediterranean Theater of Operations in World War II. The unit flew in the invasion of North Africa and Sicily and shot down 196 enemy aircraft.

In August 1947, the squadron was redesignated the 96th Fighter Squadron (Single Engine), flying the P-51 "Mustang" from Grenier Field, NH.

In September 1952, the unit was reactivated as the 96th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron flying the F-94 "Starfire" out of New Castle Airport, Delaware flying fighter and air defense missions until it was deactivated on 8 January 1958.

On 22 June 1972, the unit was redesignated the 96th Flying Training Squadron at Williams AFB, AZ, flying the T-37 aircraft. The 96th FTS trained USAF and foreign student pilots in all phases of primary Undergraduate Pilot Training and was the first flying squadron to train women Air Force pilots in 1977. The 96th FTS was deactivated on 26 June 1992.

On 1 April 1998, the squadron was reactivated as the 96th Flying Training Squadron, Laughlin AFB, TX, as a Reserve Associate Squadron, Air Force Reserve Command. The 96th FTS is the first reserve squadron in the Air Force with Instructor Pilots teaching SUPT student pilots in all three trainer aircraft the T-37, the T-38, and the T-1.

The 96th Flying Training Squadron is one of the most highly decorated units in the Air Force earning thirteen World War II campaign ribbons, three Distinguished Unit Citations and three Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards.

The unit flies Air Force T-38A, T-37B, and T-1A aircraft.