8th FTS commander selected for prestigious assignment Published April 6, 2010 By Ensign Rex Miller 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Lt. Col. James M. Gifford Jr., commander of the 8th Flying Training Squadron has been selected as Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense. "I was extremely excited and in disbelief when I heard," said Colonel Gifford. "It took about 48 hours to sink in." The colonel is very grateful for the support he received from Col. Glen D. VanHerck, 71st Flying Training Wing vice commander and Col. Dean W. Lee, 71st Operations Group commander. "Colonel VanHerck was the one who pushed me to submit a package for the assignment and Colonel Lee worked hard to secure the job as well," said Colonel Gifford. "I wouldn't have been selected for this assignment without their support." The travel and world-wide scope of his new assignment as well as being able to observe the interaction of political and military leadership are what Colonel Gifford looks forward to most in his new role. He said that he would miss his daily interaction with first assignment instructor pilots most. "I'll miss being able to directly influence their attitudes and maturing processes as we shape these young officers in the squadron." Colonel Gifford's change of command ceremony will take place June 9.