71st Student Squadron welcomes new commander Published Aug. 7, 2013 VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Rank/Name: Lt. Col. William "Yogi" Maher Squadron: 71st Student Squadron Date assumed command: June 26, 2013 Previous assignment: 71st Flying Training Wing Plans and Exercises Time in Service: 18 years Hobbies: Biking, running, fishing, flying, playing the guitar and reading. Why the squadron is important to the Air Force mission: The 71st STUS directly supports all aspects of the 71st FTW mission of Develop, Deliver and Deploy. Most of our personnel (student pilots) are at Vance Air Force Base for Joint Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training. We strive to develop student officership qualities and mentor them on our U.S. Air Force and Vance AFB heritage. Our simulator instructor corps provides the majority of academic training and enables effective and efficient flightline instruction through simulator instruction. Finally, student squadron personnel are deployed in support of operations around the world. Command philosophy: Model and demand integrity in how we conduct our professional and personal lives. Foster teamwork within the organization to accomplish our mission. Promote maximum effort from each individual in the organization using their resources of knowledge, ability, time and money. Goals for new position: Mission, People and Fun! Graduate student pilots into pilots. Care/mentor and support those that don't graduate. Focus on increased knowledge of airpower and Air Force heritage and history for all personnel. Encourage development and maintenance of family relationships. Increase fitness and fun through physical competition.