Mission
The 71st Flying Training Wing conducts undergraduate pilot training for qualified United States military officers and also international officers.
71st Flying Training Wing Mission:
Deliver the world’s best pilots to defend our nation
Vision:
Empower the future of the Air Force through innovation and collaboration
Motto:
Vance Proud
Priorities:
Deliver World Class Pilots, Develop Resilient Airmen and Families, Deploy Ready Airmen and Demonstrate Our Culture
History
In keeping with the Air Force tradition of naming bases for deceased Air Force flyers, on July 9, 1949, the base was renamed after a local World War II hero and Medal of Honor winner, Lt. Col. Leon Robert Vance, Jr. The twin-engine T-37 jet, designed as a primary trainer became operational at the base in 1961. Replacing the T-33 in 1963-64, was the T-38, an advanced supersonic jet trainer. In 1995, the 71st Flying Training Wing moved into a new specialized undergraduate pilot training program with the arrival of the Beechjet T-1 Jayhawk. Joint training with the Navy became a reality in March, 1996, and Navy and Marine Corps student pilots arrived in April 1996, as part of Class 97-08. For more of Vance’s history visit Vance AFB's website, under the "Fact Sheets" Tab.
Population
Vance has about 1,200 active duty and Reserve military, as well as more than 1,100 family members living in the local area. The base also employs almost 1,300 Federal civilian employees, non-appropriated fund civilian employees, contractors and private business employees. There are an estimated 2,200 retired military members in the local area.
Enid Oklahoma's population is 50,500, making it the 9th largest city in Oklahoma. Review links found at the 71 FSS Newcomers page to learn more about Enid and Oklahoma.
Location
Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma is located in Garfield County, on the south side of the City of Enid. Enid is approximately 95 miles northwest of Oklahoma City, 115 miles west of Tulsa, and 123 miles south of Wichita, Kansas. This is a military town and the community appreciates our presence.
Directions
If you arrive in Oklahoma City or Tulsa by commercial airline, you should look to your sponsor as your first option for transportation to Enid.
Directions from Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, OK.
From Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, follow South Meridian and merge onto I-40 West. Exit on the US 81 exit and go north. Continue on US 81 north for approximately 70 miles. Once you see the Welcome to Enid sign you will turn left at the first red light you come to (Southgate Rd), then turn left onto Gott Road. Gott Road goes straight to the main gate.
Directions from Tulsa International Airport in Tulsa
From Tulsa International Airport in Tulsa, follow the signs to I-244W/US 412W and take exit toward Oklahoma City. Follow 412 (partial toll road) to Enid, then turn left (south) on US-81. Turn right onto Southgate Rd., then left onto Gott Road. Gott Road goes straight to the main gate.
Contact Information
Vance AFB Information Line: 580-213-5000; DSN 312-448-5000
You can also look at the "Points of Contact/Operating Hours" document on the Vance AFB Homepage, under the "Helpful Links" tab.
