A wing and a prayer

  • Published
  • By Thomas Schmidt
  • 927th Air Refueling Wing
Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Mich. --  With spirited curiosity and a degree of uncertainty in their minds, a group of 42 members of the clergy were anxious for a day of excitement away from the rigors of their ministry.

Arriving at Selfridge Air National Guard Base on June 16, shortly after the bright morning sun peeked over the horizon, clergy from many different faiths were soon to be exposed to the fascinating world of aerial refueling.

Warmly greeted by Col. Gary Beebe, 927th ARW commander, and an entourage of flight crew members, the day began with the traditional command briefing explaining the vital role of the 927th and the Air Force Reserve Command in the defense of our country and the global war on terrorism.

Boarding two awaiting KC-135R aircraft, clergy quickly became very curious of its refueling capabilities and were amazed with the impeccable cleanliness and immaculate appearance. With the morning sun over head and clouds breaking away, the two-ship mission departed for a rendezvous over Kentucky with a C-17 Globemaster III from the 315th Airlift Wing at Charleston AFB, SC., with aerial refueling scheduled to take place at an altitude of 28,000 feet.

Words and expressions of awe were common place as clergy exited the boom pod after witnessing refueling. Cameras clicked at an alarming speed in an attempt to capture the refueling in the brief available moments, knowing someone was anxiously waiting to enter the pod.

Returning to home base, clergy continued to talk in amazement among themselves and with crew members as they recounted what had been seen.

The day concluded with a barbecue and a brief program with comments from Chaplain (Capt.) Steven Woodford, wing chaplain, who said, "It is important for our Airmen to bring a degree of spirituality to the table in their lives. More importantly, as a member of the clergy it is necessary to be there for the returning service member and the family. In many cases the days ahead will prove to be very difficult." In parting conversation, Rev. John Duerr said, "Thank you for a truly memorable day."