8th FTS gets new commander Published June 12, 2015 By 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs 71st Flying Training Wing VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Lt. Col. Bryan Elder assumed command of the 8th Flying Training Squadron from Lt. Col. Troy Henderson during a ceremony June 12 in Hangar 170. Before assuming command of the 8th, Elder was the director of operations for the 71st Student Squadron. Elder is a senior pilot with more than 2,300 hours in the F-16C, F-16D, T-38A, T-6 Texan II and the T-37. He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1998. He holds a Master's in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a Master's of Military Operations from the Air University, Air Command and Staff College.