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| News > 'Twas just before Christmas in the European sky |
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RAF MILDENHALL, England – An air-to-air refueling mission took a special Christmas turn as one Royal Danish Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon ‘sleigh’ pilot arrived to receive fuel with a Santa Claus hat taped to his helmet. RAF Mildenhall’s 351st Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotankers are responsible for refueling American and allied aircraft, enabling NATO missions across Europe and Africa. Transient aircraft supporting ongoing operations in Afghanistan and other deployed areas also frequently rendezvous with Mildenhall tankers to receive fuel, which extends their global reach and enables the Air Force mission to fly, fight and win. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Kevin Wallace)
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'Twas just before Christmas in the European sky
Posted 12/16/2011 Updated 12/16/2011
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by Tech. Sgt. Kevin Wallace
100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
12/16/2011 - RAF MILDENHALL, England -- 'Twas just before Christmas in the European sky; a KC-135 Stratotanker pumped fuel, so others could fly.
The boom extended from the fuselage with care; to prepare for the receiver, which'd soon be there.
The fighter pilots were all nestled tight in their seats; as the wizzos (weapons officers) prepared for an air-to-ground feat.
And the boomer in his pod, pumping fuel with the nozzle attached; permitting Lakenheath fighters to secure the skies in a flash.
When off on the horizon arose a friendly sight; a formation of Danish fighters were also in flight.
Toward their location flew the tanker, such a motivating thrill; extended the boom, and their tanks it did fill.
The sun on the horizon, setting on the North Sea; showed the mission's end, and a successful day for the free.
How the boomers eyes twinkled, pumping petrol profound; knowing the fighter pilots' training keeps Europe safe and sound.
And back at Mildenhall, maintainers were busy at their task; for everyday tankers fly and pump freedom's gas.
Some missions real-world, while others set to train; to bolster the NATO alliance and sharpen pilots' brains.
For about 70 years now, American pilots did fly; from U.K. soil over Europe's vast sky.
Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya and more; Mildenhall tankers fly proudly, enabling allied jets to soar.
Shows of force, kinetic targeting and close-air support; Soldiers' demise and insurgent attacks they did thwart.
Ask any Marine or Soldier, "CAS's my best friend," they'll say; regardless the mission, tempo or demand, Air Force fighters must stay.
But some may not know, there's more to the fight; another mission enabling each day and each night
The mission is tankers, extending the reach; permitting global range for all and for each.
As Mildenhall's tanker headed home, something odd did appear; 'twas an F-16 pilot wearing Santa's flight gear.
He spoke not a word, as he took a full tank; broke hard to the right, gave a thumbs-up for thanks.
In all allied languages he exclaimed, as he flew out of sight; "Merry Christmas to all, and have a great Air Force night!" |
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