71st Flying Training Wing

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 71st Flying Training Wing

The 71st Flying Training Wing, based at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma, was activated on August 25, 1972. Its primary mission is to conduct undergraduate pilot training for the United States Air Force, as well as allied nations, preparing pilots for a variety of aircraft. Over the decades, the wing has flown numerous training aircraft, including the T-37 Tweet, T-38 Talon, and T-6 Texan II. The 71st FTW continues to play a vital role in producing highly skilled pilots, supporting both national defense and international partnerships.

Unit Members

Althea Foster

U.S. Air Force

71st Flying Training WingView Profile

Annette Collins

U.S. Air Force

71st Flying Training WingView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 71st Flying Training Wing

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in WWII: The 71st Flying Training Wing traces its origins to World War II, when it was originally activated as the 71st Tactical Reconnaissance Group in 1942. • Current Mission: The primary mission of the 71st FTW is to train United States Air Force and allied nations’ pilots at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma. • Named After Medal of Honor Recipient: Vance Air Force Base, home of the 71st, is named in honor of Lt. Col. Leon Robert Vance Jr., a WWII Medal of Honor recipient. • Joint Service Training: The 71st FTW trains not only Air Force pilots, but also Navy, Marine Corps, and allied nation pilots, fostering joint and international cooperation. • Aircraft Variety: The wing operates several types of training aircraft, including the T-6A Texan II, T-1A Jayhawk, and T-38C Talon, providing comprehensive flight training. • Undergraduate Pilot Training (UPT): Vance AFB and the 71st FTW are one of only three Air Force bases conducting Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training. • Historic Unit Lineage: The 71st has been activated, inactivated, and redesignated multiple times throughout its history, reflecting changes in U.S. Air Force structure and mission needs. • Support for Operation Desert Storm: During the Gulf War, the 71st FTW provided support personnel and resources, highlighting its role beyond training during times of conflict. • Longevity of Service: The 71st FTW has trained thousands of pilots since its establishment at Vance AFB in 1972, making it a cornerstone of Air Force pilot production for over 50 years. • The "Vance Experience": The wing is known for its rigorous, fast-paced training environment, often referred to as the “Vance Experience,” which prepares student pilots for the demands of military aviation.