Members of the 97th Air Mobility Wing at Altus AFB, Okla., claimed top title as “Best Air Mobility Wing” at the Air Mobility Rodeo at JB Lewis-McChord, Wash. The wing operates C-17s and KC-135s as part of Air Education and Training Command’s training mission. This year’s rodeo—a biennial, week-long air mobility competition—pitted nearly 150 teams, including 34 international crews, against one another in categories from loading and logistics to airdrop and air-to-air refueling. “We never know where we’ll be operating next,” said Brig. Gen. Frederick Martin, Air Mobility Command’s director of operations, during the July 29 closing ceremony and awards presentation. He added, “The more partnerships we can build around the globe, the better we can perform our mission.” (Lewis-McChord report by SSgt. J.G. Buzanowski) (For a full list of awards, see this Lewis-McChord release.)
Iran War Highlights the Value of Unmanned Aircraft
April 20, 2026
Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.orgCombat video from MQ-9 Reaper remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) striking targets in Iran may have surprised those who thought the iconic unmanned aircraft were destined...