Airmen from the 56th Air Refueling Squadron operated multiple KC-46 Pegasus aircraft to provide mid-flight refueling to U.S. Navy Blue Angels F/A-18 Super Hornets, demonstrating their technical skills in the skies over Texoma, Oct. 14, 2024 .

Nineteen University of Oklahoma Naval ROTC midshipmen joined 97th Air Mobility Wing Airmen to experience an important part of the mission and witness collaboration between the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy.

“Many naval aviators come from our program,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Jacob Glasstad, NROTC advisor, University of Oklahoma. “So any opportunity for cross-service collaboration and the opportunity to expose students to military operations is a positive thing. I hope we can continue this in the future.”

As the Blue Angels formation approached the KC-46, everyone present took turns watching the boom operators and pilots conduct aerial refueling from the cockpit.

The Blue Angels are known for their aerobatics and formation flights, where they use time and precision to put on performances for the public. With the additional support of aerial refueling, the team can improve their routines and maintain their performance plan.

“The support from Altus has been great in many ways,” said Maj. Gary Sowa, 56th ARS KC-46 Pegasus chief pilot. “First, it introduces our sister service to the Air Force’s newest and most advanced tanker. Additionally, we were able to take the University of Oklahoma Navy ROTC men and show them our mission while supporting the Blue Angels.”

After the crews completed refueling the Blue Angels, the KC-46 pilots demonstrated aerial refueling with another KC-46 on the way back to Altus Air Force Base.

Glasad shared that this exercise is an inspiration to our future military leaders in attendance.

As the Blue Angels continue their journey to Jacksonville, Florida, they do so because of the support of the Mighty 97th.