Team Fairchild prides itself on its legacy as the Air Refueling Center of Excellence, a legacy that was reiterated when it received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Oct. 26, 2017.

Fairchild was selected for the AFOUA for its performance of exceptionally meritorious service. The award-period for the AFOUA was from Sept 1, 2015, to Aug. 31, 2017. During this period, Team Fairchild was busy making air refueling, airlift and aeromedical evacuation missions happen to defend the United States, allied forces and Combatant Commanders around the globe.

“Our Airmen are top-notch, and it is no surprise to me they were selected,” said Col. Ryan Samuelson, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “Team Fairchild’s focus on mission accomplishment and taking care of each other speaks volumes about their character and dedication. Innovation is in our blood, and we will continue driving forward to honor our heritage of excellence, pride and professionalism.”

More than 1,200 personnel were deployed all over the world in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Inherent Resolve, as well as defending the United States from those who may intend to cause Americans harm through Operation Noble Eagle, a 24/7 mission.

Team Fairchild is vital for Global Reach and Power. Per the award citation, each Airman through their individual missions directly contributed to the execution of 52 thousand flying hours and offloading of 283 million pounds of fuel to execute and sustain Rapid Global Mobility… Now!

“The sun doesn’t set on Team Fairchild,” Samuelson said. “When the United States and our allies call for high-speed Airmen, we answer that call. Our military is mighty, but no flying mission can be successful without our expert personnel fueling them up along the way. Our KC-135s are the backbone to our fighting force.”

In addition to the AFOUA, Fairchild’s reputation and execution of the Rapid Global Mobility mission has garnered many awards, to include four Department of Defense, seven Air Force and 27 Major Command awards, as well as two back-to-back Omaha Trophy Awards, presented by the US Strategic Command.

Team Fairchild could not accomplish the mission, or even exist, without the support of the Inland Northwest.

“The KC-135 may be the backbone to Air Power, but the Inland Northwest is the backbone of Fairchild,” Samuelson said. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the Spokane area for the last 75 years of being neighbors who welcome us into your homes, schools and organizations every day to ensure we have a community to be part of.”