The new Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals course established at Vance AFB, Okla., just flew its first sortie earlier this month. Vance’s new 3rd Fighter Training Squadron formed earlier this year. This first class comprises six students, recent graduates of Joint Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training at Vance, reports Capt. Tony Wickman. “In 18 months, these pilots are going to be the ones in the skies over Iraq and Afghanistan,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Tyson, 3rd FTS commander.
Unit commanders are being told to separate service members who can’t shave their cheeks and chin for medical reasons for more than a year, according to new guidance from Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.