Staff Sgt. Joshua Bussiere, 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, Guidance Control specialist, makes the final exterior preparations to a KC-135 Stratotanker April 9, 2013, in Southwest Europe, prior to its launch. Bussiere, from Jaffrey, N.H., augments the crew chiefs on the ground and assists in the take-off and recovery of the refueling aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Mesnard/Released)
Lt. Gen. Craig A. Franklin, 3rd Air Force and 17th Expeditionary Air Force commander, talks to Airmen of the 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron April 9, 2013, during a visit to the deployed location in Southwest Europe. Franklin was on station to evaluate the 351st EARS’ assets and capabilities in addition to talking with Airmen in the unit. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Mesnard/Released)
A KC-135 Stratotanker taxis after returning from a refueling mission while another prepares to launch April 9, 2013, in Southwest Europe. Both aircraft are operated by the 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron and fly air-to-air refueling missions supporting the French in Mali. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Mesnard/Released)
A French Mirage fighter pulls away after taking on fuel from a KC-135 Stratotanker with the 351st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron April 9, 2013, over Mali. The 351st EARS has been supporting the French fighter aircraft over Mali since Jan. 27, 2013, allowing the fighter aircraft the ability to provide their ground forces with around-the-clock close air support. (U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Mesnard/Released)
