All the KC-135 tankers that temporarily relocated to JB Charleston, S.C., have returned home to MacDill AFB, Fla., after completion of the roughly $8 million runway repairs there late last year, according to a Jan. 4 USAF release. The tankers first relocated in October 2016 and the last tanker returned to MacDill on Dec. 20, 2016, states the release. Having the tankers at Charleston helped members of the 437th Operations Group check off more than 288 currency events, said group commander Col. Louis Hansen. “Air refueling is a force multiplier, allowing US Transportation Command and Air Mobility Command to deliver forces and cargo anywhere in the world non-stop,” he added.
Seven F-22 Raptor pilots have recently been awarded one of the military’s highest decorations for their actions during operations in the Middle East. Six of the pilots were decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross for their role in Operation Midnight Hammer, the June 2025 strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.