141st Air Refueling Wing

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 141st Air Refueling Wing

The 141st Air Refueling Wing (141 ARW) is a unit of the Washington Air National Guard, stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base near Spokane, Washington. Originally established in 1956 as the 141st Fighter Group, the unit was later redesignated and transitioned to an air refueling mission in 1976, operating the KC-135 Stratotanker. Throughout its history, the 141 ARW has supported numerous operations, including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, providing aerial refueling and global mobility for U.S. and allied forces. The Wing continues to play a vital role in both state and federal missions, supporting national defense and disaster response efforts.

Unit Members

Debbie Mahoney

U.S. Air Force

141st Air Refueling WingView Profile

Richard Kirkpatrick

U.S. Air Force

141st Air Refueling WingView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 141st Air Refueling Wing

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins in World War II: The 141st Air Refueling Wing traces its heritage to the 116th Observation Squadron, established in 1924 and activated in 1940 for World War II service. • Washington Air National Guard: The unit is part of the Washington Air National Guard and is based at Fairchild Air Force Base near Spokane, Washington. • Cold War Role: During the Cold War, the unit flew fighter-interceptor missions, safeguarding the northwestern United States from potential Soviet air threats. • Transition to Air Refueling: In 1976, the unit transitioned from flying fighter jets to operating KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft, focusing on air refueling missions. • Operation Desert Storm: The 141st played a crucial support role during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 by providing aerial refueling for combat aircraft. • Global Reach: Members and aircraft of the 141st ARW have deployed around the world, supporting operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and global exercises. • BRAC Realignment: In 2005, the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) commission led to the 141st ARW sharing its KC-135 fleet with the active-duty 92nd Air Refueling Wing at Fairchild AFB, a unique "classic association." • Humanitarian Missions: The unit has supported humanitarian relief efforts, including disaster relief after Hurricane Katrina and other natural disasters. • Community Support: The 141st ARW is known for its close ties to the Spokane community, participating in local events, educational outreach, and civic activities. • Honored Traditions: The unit has received numerous awards for excellence, including the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, reflecting its high standards and commitment to mission success.