Spokane Indians take flight for Operation Fly Together

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kiaundra Miller
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

Team Fairchild hosted the Spokane Indians minor league baseball team adminstration for an orientation flight showcasing the KC-135 Stratotanker mission, Oct. 27, 2021.

The flight was just one part of Operation Fly Together, a joint partnership built between Fairchild and the minor league team, intended to build deeper relationships with organizations throughout the community and honor local-to-Spokane veterans of the Armed Forces.

“This flight was an amazing experience for us,” said Chris Duff, Spokane Indians president. “We were really able to see what happens ‘behind the curtains,’ and were able to build on such a strong partnership we already have with the base.”

This orientation flight took off on one of Fairchild’s 68 KC-135s and refueled eight F-15 Eagles and one KC-10 Extender.

“I'm amazed by the Spokane Indians and everything they do for the military,” said Col. Cassius Bentley, 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander. “Being able to show their team first-hand how incredible our Airmen and aircraft are further showcases our mission and the capabilities we have, and that makes this partnership even stronger.”

Flights like these are vital because they allow Airmen and community members to openly communicate in a unique environment.

“We were in awe with how professional each Airman was,” Duff said. “Furthermore, it was such a great opportunity to talk to the Airmen and get a real feel for what the military life is truly like.”

Orientation flights are a staple in Air Force community partnerships, and allow local community members to witness the critical role Team Fairchild plays in Extending Global Reach for America.