Sioux City, Iowa -- Members of the Nebraska Wing of the Civil Air Patrol got to witness an in-flight refueling up close during a visit to the Iowa Air National Guard’s, 185th Air Refueling Wing in Sioux City, Iowa, Thursday. The cadets were able to learn about the Air Force, Air National Guard and the 185th ARW mission.
Nebraska CAP members flew aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker during an orientation flight. CAP members were able to see in-flight refueling first hand from the boom pod, while the 185th ARW refueled eight F-16 Fighting Falcons over Lake Superior.
“The orientation flights that we receive are pretty rare. I don’t think we’ve had one in several years, it is very welcomed.” Said Air Force Major Robert Wachholtz, Air Force Liaison to the Civil Air Patrol at Offutt Air Base.
Col. Lawrence Christensen, Base Commander of the 185th ARW, talked with CAP members from the Siouxland, Columbus, Norfolk and Tri-Cities Composite Squadrons prior to the flight about the role of the in-flight refueling mission at the 185th. CAP Cadets were also given the chance to ask questions and learn more about the Air National Guard from several unit members.
“This is a unique opportunity for the young kids in Civil Air Patrol, when Civil Air Patrol is the auxiliary of the United States Air Force.” Said CAP Major Luke Sykora, Commander of the Siouxland Composite Squadron.
Civil Air Patrol is a federally supported non-profit, founded during WWII as a way to protect the nation’s shorelines from invading German U-boats. The volunteer organization has since evolved with the three primary missions of aerospace education, cadet programs and emergency services.
While here Col Christensen presented eight Cadets from the Siouxland Composite Squadron with a Certificate of Appreciation for their support during the 185th ARW open house and 5k run.