EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska – The Alaska Air National Guard’s 168th Wing hosted a civic leader flight June 24 that offered local leaders an opportunity to view an aerial refueling mission over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex.
Directed by Pacific Air Forces, Red Flag-Alaska 25-2 brought together approximately 1,500 participants and more than 70 aircraft from across the United States and allied nations for two weeks of multi-service, multi-platform, coordinated exercises.
The civic leader flight provided a behind-the-scenes glimpse into military operations, highlighting the professionalism and capabilities of the Guardians of the Last Frontier.
“It’s one thing to support the military in theory, but seeing it up close is a whole different story,” North Pole Mayor Larry Terch said. “The expertise and dedication of these men and women are truly inspiring, and it is an honor to be a part of this program.”
Hosted aboard an Alaska Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker, the flight showcased how mid-air refueling extends the range and endurance of U.S. and allied aircraft, capabilities vital to global reach and strategic deterrence.
During the mission, civic leaders sat shoulder-to-shoulder with boom operators in the aircraft’s refueling pod, witnessing fighter jets approach and the precision of air refueling. The opportunity strengthened civilian-military connections and fostered a deeper understanding of aerial refueling operations, which are crucial for sustaining global mobility, extending mission reach and maintaining a strategic advantage.
“It was a privilege to witness the mission that helps protect our skies,” said Dean Baxter, Fairbanks International Airport Operations. “This opportunity helps continue to strengthen our connection to the military community.”
Also on board were newly commissioned U.S. Air Force pilot trainees supporting Red Flag operations in Alaska while awaiting the start of their formal flight training. The flight offered them a unique opportunity to observe aerial refueling operations up close, an experience that provided valuable insight into the coordination and precision required between tanker and receiver aircraft. Watching the mission unfold from the boom operator’s perspective gave them a deeper understanding of the teamwork involved, which they will carry with them as future fighter pilots.
During the flight, the trainees also engaged with civic leaders, sharing their personal journeys and building connections between the next generation of Air Force aviators and the local community.
The air crew onboard provided key insights into the process from the perspective of a refueling aircraft and offered valuable insights into the complex operations.
“During this civic leader flight, we have the chance to demonstrate the lethality of Red Flag operations—showcasing the teamwork and skill that keep our nation’s airspace secure,” said Senior Master Sgt. Keith Rowan, 168th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator and senior enlisted leader.
The flight served not just as a tour, but as a bridge between the Alaska Air National Guard Airmen and the communities they serve.
“Having civic leaders on board gives us the chance to show what our Airmen do every day – highly technical, precise work that’s critical to mission success,” Rowan said.
The 168th Wing Public Affairs emphasized the program’s goal to empower informed ambassadors who can highlight the Airmen’s mission. The flight showcased the integrated operations, mission readiness and professionalism of Airmen in Alaska.
The Air Force Civic Leader Program remains a vital link between the military and the local community, fostering understanding and collaboration. Community leaders gain a deeper understanding of the daily mission, enabling them to share information with their communities.
“This civic leader flight allows our community leaders to see up close and personally the dedication that goes into every mission,” said Col. Michael Griesbaum, 168th Wing commander.
The 168th Wing looks forward to hosting other community leaders. By strengthening partnerships, the 168th Wing contributes to the unified goal of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region.