MacDill Reservists host civic leader tour

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Peter Dean
  • 927th Air Refueling Wing/Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  The 927th Air Refueling Wing here played host to more than two dozen civic leaders, opinion formers and local businessmen, on a two-day educational experience to Joint Base San Antonio, Texas, March 19-20.

"This is going to be a great experience for you all," said Captain Joseph Simms, 927 ARW, public affairs officer. "Over the next 48 hours you will gain an understanding of the vital role that reservist play in the defense of our country."

Upon arrival, the civics processed with invitational travel orders in hand through the MacDill Passenger Terminal prior to boarding a KC-135 Stratotanker.  Once airborne, the civics were free to move around the cabin. Civic leaders had the opportunity to enter into the refueling boom pod to experience a view that few get to see.

"That's amazing, the view down there is breathtaking," said Natalia Spratlen, Grow Financial, area manager. "To see what you guys do on a daily basis is incredible." 
     
Upon arrival to JBSA, the civics were greeted by Col. William Whittenberger Jr., 433rd Airlift Wing commander, who explained the capabilities of the C-5 Galaxy.

"The C-5 can carry an entire battlefield to the fight," said Whittenberger "It can hold and deliver in one shot, helicopters, crew, maintainers, ammo and supplies."

While touring the C-5 static display, group members marveled at the enormity of the aircraft.

"Our plane [KC-135] looks so small compared to it," said Tina Provo, Troy University, enrollment coordinator. "It would probably fit inside of it."

Civic leader trips increase awareness of how the Air Force Reserve contributes to the total force and the importance of the 927th Refueling Wing to the local economy. These leaders represent some of the most influential leaders in the community and have a profound impact on our unit's acceptance and on the ability to recruit and retain reservists, according to Simms.

The trip was also dual-purposed as it allowed 927th ARW aircrew to complete numerous semi-annual requirements as well as pilot proficiency training.