Refueling in a new generation

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jenay Randolph
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Members of the Inflight Refueling Association simulated aerial refueling in the Boom Operator Weapons Systems Trainer simulator during their reunion Oct. 24, 2014, at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

Most were veterans that served in the 1950s and were trained on older aircraft; This was their first time flying in a simulator.

According to most of the IFR Association members, it is clear that the technology has advanced significantly since they trained and operated in the boom pods, but refueling remains same. They used actual aircraft to conduct training missions to become familiar with different flying techniques.

The IFR Association is an organization that is dedicated to promoting and preserving the unity of all boom operators who have served or retired from Active Duty, United States Air Force, USAF Reserve and National Guard, along with their widows and associates.

Traditionally, they hold an annual reunion at various locations throughout the U.S., and this year Tampa, Florida was their choice.

"I just thought this might be a good opportunity to show MacDill bridging the gap between the past, present, and future of the wing's mission by helping out an outside private organization of retirees," stated Tech. Sgt. Rory Wilcox, 91st Air Refueling Squadron boom operator and coordinator of the visit.

There were 18 retired boom operators present, along with two spouses. They were given a brief before entering the BOWST simulator, in which everyone was allowed to refuel individually.

"It was very exciting to be back in the boom pod again," expressed Charles Lynch, retired Air Force World War II, Korean War and Vietnam veteran. "It is definitely a more advanced system, but the overall experience is about the same. It was nice to practice one more time."

Overall, MacDill gave these veterans the ability to experience refueling in the new generation.