944th, 161st showcase Guard, Reserve to local business leaders

  • Published
  • By 944th Fighter Wing
  • Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The 944th Fighter Wing, in partnership with the Air National Guard's 161st Aerial Refueling Wing from Sky Harbor, took 34 local business leaders to Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, on May 18.

A KC-135 refueling aircraft, flown by the 161st was used to transport the guests to Lackland. During the flight, they observed refueling of 302nd Fighter Squadron F-16s.

At Lackland, the civic leaders viewed C-5 Galaxy aircraft and simulators courtesy of the Reserve 433rd Airlift Wing. The Texas Air National Guard's 149th Fighter Wing had an F-16 static display.

"The civic leader trip to Lackland truly showcased first-hand how important the Reserve and Guard are to our country," said Linda Lang, Arizona Association of Community Managers executive director. "The opportunity to experience the skills and dedication that each of the crew bring to their respective units is unbelievable."

For many of the civic leaders, the highlight of the trip was being able to attend a Basic Military Training graduation ceremony and parade.

"After watching the graduation ceremony, we all felt a renewed sense of patriotism and compassion for the young graduates and all our men and women in service to our country," Ms. Lang said.

Civic leader tours increase community leaders' awareness and understanding of the Air Force's role in national security. According to Col. Derek Rydholm, 944th Fighter Wing commander, the tour to Lackland provided the opportunity to show Phoenix leaders the Air Force's contributions.

"In line with the Secretary's vision of a total force, we were able to visit active duty, reserve and Air National Guard organizations which enabled our guests to get a true idea of the contributions made by all," he said. "It was a memorable trip that won't soon be forgotten by any of the people involved. My thanks especially go out to the remarkable professionals of the 161st ARW who flew us to Lackland and partnered with us to make the event happen."