PEASE AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, N.H. -- Col. Robert L. Hanovich, the 22nd Operations Group commander, assigned to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas, met with 157th Air Refueling Wing leadership on November 29, 2017, here.
The 22nd ARW is the parent unit of the 64th Air Refueling Squadron, the active duty component here at Pease. Hanovich’s visit served as an opportunity for the two wings to strengthen their bond and increase total force integration.
The Total Force Enterprise (TFE) is a collaboration of the active, guard and reserve components of the Air Force in order to maximize resources, take care of people, balance today's readiness with tomorrow’s modernization, and making every dollar count.
“In the enduring effort to ensure TFE is a success, these engagements have fostered the communication and dialogue to address challenges each wing faces and sometimes face together,” said Col. James P. Ryan, the 157th ARW commander.
Both McConnell AFB and Pease ANGB are preparing for the upcoming conversion to the Boeing KC-46A Pegasus, the modern refueling aircraft which is will replace its predecessor, the KC-135 Stratotanker.
Preparations have included increased manning to support the updated mission and ongoing on-base construction to accommodate the new aircraft.
“We get to work with some of the Air Force's best and brightest and mentor them on what the guard is all about," said Ryan. “We have learned a great deal from each other and will continue to build relationships with future commanders at McConnell as our Airmen work to field the future of air refueling.”