173 Air Refueling Squadron (U.S. Air Force) Color Changing Mug

The 173 Air Refueling Squadron is a unit of the United States Air Force primarily tasked with air-to-air refueling operations. It falls under the operational command of the Air Mobility Command and provides crucial in-flight fuel transfers for various military aircraft, thereby extending their range and endurance during long-duration missions or deployments. The squadron is stationed at McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas. Its history dates back to World War II, with its first operational deployment occurring in 1945. Throughout the years, it has supported numerous military operations, including the Berlin Airlift, Vietnam War, Gulf Wars, and various humanitarian missions around the globe. The 173 ARS operates KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft for its refueling duties.