GOLDWATER AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ariz. -- Honorary Commanders for the 944th Fighter Wing experienced firsthand the precision and skill of Air Force operations as they flew aboard a 161st Air Refueling Wing, KC-135 Stratotanker and observed an aerial refueling mission on November 8, 2024.
During the flight hosted by the Arizona Air National Guard, civic leaders sat alongside boom operators in the refueling pod and witnessed fighter jets position themselves for refueling – a process that requires unmatched discipline and coordination. This opportunity deepened civilian-military connections to foster a better understanding of refueling operations essential for sustaining global military reach and maintaining America’s strategic advantage.
“Just the idea of refueling a jet midair is extraordinary,” said Jose Arias, 924th Fighter Group Honorary Commander and Business Banking Vice President at First Citizens Bank of Tucson, Arizona. “Seeing this level of expertise and dedication from these Airmen is inspiring.”
The KC-135 flight departed Goldwater Air National Guard Base, flying over southern New Mexico before returning to Arizona. While in flight, the civic leaders saw F-35 Lightning IIs and F-16 Fighting Falcons refuel from the boom pod. Also, on board the aircraft were the 944th Fighter Wing Commander, Col Todd Riddle, and 944th Operations Group Commander, Col Peter Cossette, both F-35 fighter pilots. They provided key insights into the refueling process from a receiving aircraft perspective and provided greater insight to the complete operation.
“It’s about communication and ensuring each approach is perfectly aligned,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Nick Savasta, a boom operator with the 161st AREF, highlighting the complexity and importance of the mission. “With civic leaders on board, it’s an opportunity to showcase the precision required in our daily operations. Complex operations like this require extensive training to ensure uninterrupted mission capabilities over long distances.”
The Honorary Commander Program bridges the gap between military and civilian communities, offering civic leaders’ opportunities to engage with Airmen and gain insight into their roles.
“We want our civic leaders to see what our Airmen do and understand the sacrifices and challenges they face so they can share what they saw and the importance of our mission,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Courtney Richardson, Senior Enlisted Leader of Public Affairs for the 944th FW. “It’s about building relationships and trust between the base and the community, thus fostering public support while ensuring a strong resilient force that continues to attract America’s best and brightest.
Richardson has overseen the program for over three years, coordinating opportunities for civic leaders to gain a unique perspective into the roles of Reserve and Guard units within Arizona. From this experience, Richardson hopes that the Honorary Commanders can share this experience in their communities—that they can speak to riding in a KC-135 Stratotanker, flying thousands of feet above ground and at 200 knots, and refueling fighter jets only 47 feet apart.
The 944th FW Public Affairs team emphasized the program’s goal to empower informed ambassadors who can highlight the Airmen’s mission. The flight showcased the integrated operations, mission readiness, dedication, and professionalism of Airmen in Arizona.
Honorary Commanders concluded the experience with a deepened respect for the complexities of aerial refueling and the significance of their role in connecting the military and civilian sectors.
“It’s truly an honor to be part of this program,” Arias said. “These experiences are humbling, and they reinforce how vital our Airmen are to our country’s security.”