186th Air Refueling Wing

The 186th Air Refueling Wing (186 ARW) is a unit of the Mississippi Air National Guard, based at Key Field Air National Guard Base in Meridian, Mississippi. Established in 1939 as the 153rd Observation Squadron, the unit has undergone several re-designations and mission changes throughout its history, including roles in reconnaissance, tactical reconnaissance, and air refueling. In 1992, the wing transitioned to the air refueling mission, operating the KC-135 Stratotanker to provide aerial refueling support for U.S. and allied aircraft worldwide. The 186th ARW has participated in numerous operations, including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, and continues to play a vital role in global air mobility and national defense.