Hey there, Texans Fans! I just wanted to share my wonderful weekend details with you. Saturday afternoon, Brittani, Summer and I were honored to have an invitation from the 147th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard to accompany them in a KC-135 and witness the refueling of four of their F-16C's in mid-air. It was an amazing day that we will never forget!
When we arrived, we got the opportunity to sign autographs before being briefed by being briefed by SMSgt John Garcia (call sign "Spike") on the mission. During the briefing we also had the honor of watching a slideshow of this particular division's deployment in Iraq. My favorite part was when they shared with us that they always took the Texas state flag wherever they went. I can honestly say I have never been so proud to be a Texan!
Everyone there was so amazingly polite and warm, and we felt very comfortable before getting on board the KC-135. Summer was probably the most excited, given that she is a pilot, when she was given permission to sit in the cockpit during take-off. Brittani and I, on the other hand, experienced a rough start on the take-off due to some turbulence, but bounced right back when we got to 21,000 feet.
The F-16C's were amazing, and (here's the best part) they even have the Texans bull head on the tail of each one! We got to get up close during the refueling with our new buddy "Crash" who operates the boom that refuels each F-16C, which is only 27 feet away from the KC-135 when it is being refueled. We also got to tour the cockpit and had the honor of sitting inside while we landed.
The whole day was amazing and we were so honored to be a part of the mission. Thank you again to Spike and the entire flight crew for all of your hospitality and truly amazing day. Go Texans!
- Sonya
