93rd Air Refueling Squadron

• World War II Origins: The 93rd Air Refueling Squadron traces its lineage back to 1941, when it was first activated as the 493rd Bombardment Squadron, flying B-17 Flying Fortress bombers during World War II. • Original Role: The squadron was originally a heavy bombardment unit and participated in strategic bombing campaigns in Europe before being inactivated after the war. • Refueling Mission Begins: The squadron was redesignated the 93rd Air Refueling Squadron in 1949, becoming one of the first units dedicated to aerial refueling, a critical new capability for the U.S. Air Force. • Korean War Service: The 93rd ARS played an essential support role during the Korean War, enabling long-range bomber and fighter operations by providing in-flight refueling. • KC-97 to KC-135 Transition: The unit initially operated the KC-97 Stratofreighter before transitioning to the jet-powered KC-135 Stratotanker in the late 1950s, greatly enhancing refueling capabilities. • Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, the 93rd ARS was placed on high alert to support U.S. strategic bombers during the Cuban Missile Crisis, playing a quiet but crucial role in nuclear deterrence. • SAC Operations: The squadron was part of Strategic Air Command (SAC) for decades, supporting B-52 bombers on nuclear alert during the Cold War, often maintaining a 24/7 launch-ready posture. • Vietnam War Support: The 93rd provided critical refueling support for air operations over Southeast Asia, allowing fighter and bomber aircraft to reach targets throughout Vietnam. • Modern Deployments: The unit has participated in numerous operations since the end of the Cold War, including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. • Stationed at Fairchild AFB: Since 1994, the 93rd ARS has been based at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, where it continues to operate KC-135R Stratotankers and supports global U.S. Air Force missions.