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ABOUT 71st Flying Training Wing
- 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.
