Spouse orientation flight at Kunsan

by Senior Airman Jessica Hines
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

1/3/2012 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- A group of spouses visiting their military husbands and wives stationed in the Republic of Korea were treated to a special flight, Dec. 27 here, as part of a refueling mission between the 80th Fighter Squadron and the 909th Air Refueling Squadron from Kadena Air Base, Japan.

The group boarded a KC-135 Stratotanker and departed on a two hour refueling mission off the coast of Korea where they were able to see firsthand how aircraft are refueled during flight. Watching from beside the boom operator, a few spouses were able to see their husbands from the cockpit of their F-16 Fighting Falcons as they maneuvered below the KC-135.

Many military members have unaccompanied tours while serving in the ROK and don't get to share their work with the families. Because of the orientation flight, husbands and wives were able to better understand the Air Force mission and the work their spouse do every day.

The flight also served as training for pilots and crew members from both units, who require regular training to keep sharp on such maneuvers.