The KC-135 Stratotankers of the 134th Air Refueling Wing supported the F-15E Strike Eagles that helped defend Israel last April.
On Dec. 7, 2024, at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, 11 members of the 134th Air Refueling Wing received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for their bravery during the aerial refueling missions aboard KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft between Apr. 13 and 14, 2024. During that night, U.S. and allied crews took part in the largest air-to-air enemy engagement in over 50 years, supporting Israel as it faced an unprecedented attack launched from Iran, alongside Houthi terrorist group in Yemen as well as Iranian-backed proxies in Iraq: 170 one-way drones, 120 Medium-Range Ballistic Missiles, and 30 Land-Attack Cruise Missiles.
According to the Israeli Defense Forces the surface-to-air air defenses and fighters achieved a 99% success rate against +300 incoming threats, including Shahed 136 one-way attack drones, Paveh land attack cruise missiles and Emad intermediate range ballistic missiles.
The DFC is one of the most prestigious honors an aircrew can receive; established in 1926, recognizes acts of heroism or exceptional achievement during aerial operations.
The ceremony at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base highlighted the team’s role in Operation True Promise, the mission launched after Iran’s massive missile and drone attack. Deployed at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the 134th aircrews ensured U.S. and allied fighters could intercept the incoming threats.
“We had no choice but to act fast,” said Lt. Col. Willis Parker, a KC-135 Stratotanker pilot. “Without us refueling them, the F-15s couldn’t stay in the fight.”
The KC-135 aircrews launched in support of the U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles from the 494th Fighter Squadron, from RAF Lakenheath, UK, and the 335th Fighter Squadron, from Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina, operating as part of the 494th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, respectively, tasked with intercepting the attack.
The mix of U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles and other defensive assets successfully engaged and destroyed more than 80 kamikaze UAVs, out of more than 300 drone and missiles intended to strike Israel. As we already reported, Airmen from the 494th Fighter Squadron and 494th Fighter Generation Squadron were recognized during a ceremony at RAF Lakenheath, UK, on Nov. 12, 2024. Two Silver Stars, six Distinguished Flying Crosses with the valor device, four Distinguished Flying Crosses with the combat device, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, two Bronze Stars, seven Air and Space Commendation Medals and seven Air and Space Achievement Medals, were awarded to the F-15E Strike Eagle crews.
The tankers provided aerial refueling to extend the fighters’ limited range and sustain their operational readiness. This mission was anything but routine, says the U.S. Air Force, “as the aircrews operated without onboard defensive systems or advanced situational awareness tools, flying in an environment where missiles and drones filled the skies.”
“The aircrew knew the risks,” said Parker. “But as tanker crews, we’re the lifeline for the fighters. If we don’t do our job, they can’t do theirs.”
“These Airmen exemplify the highest standards of courage and professionalism,” said U.S. Air National Guard Brig. Gen. Lee Hartley, Tennessee Assistant Adjutant General during the ceremony. “Their actions not only safeguarded lives but also demonstrated the strength of our commitment to our allies and global stability.”
U.S. Air National Guard Col. Ronald Selvidge, commander of the 134th Air Refueling Wing, echoed those sentiments. “Their dedication under fire showcases the very best of the Air National Guard. They performed with composure and skill in the most challenging circumstances.”
The recipients—Lt. Col. Willis Parker, Maj. Lance Welch, Maj. Stacy Sells, Maj. Cody Gaby, Capt. Andrew Weber, Capt. James Spearman, Capt. Joshua Johnson, Tech. Sgt. Hunter Ricks, Tech. Sgt. Gage Seymour, Tech. Sgt. Joshua Osborne, and Senior Airman Jonah Parham—exemplified teamwork and resilience during a critical moment.
As the ceremony at the 134th Air Refueling Wing wrapped up, Brig. Gen. Hartley commended the honorees. “You are the reason we succeed. Thank you for what you have done for your Wing, your country, and our allies.”
Indeed, NKAWTG!
The 134th ARW at McGhee Tyson Air National Guard Base, Tennessee, are candidate to host the KC-46 Pegasus in the future. Air Force’s final basing decision is expected in 2027, meanwhile the Wing will continue to operate the KC-135 Stratotanker.
