Hanging in hangars

Under the shelter of hangars, McConnell’s KC-135 Stratotanker’s are regularly inspected and maintained, May 15, 2013, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. McConnell is one of three supertanker wings proving in-flight refueling to enable coalition aircraft to be anywhere anytime. (U.S. Air Force photo/ Senior Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales)

Wing CC ‘fini flight’

One of McConnell’s boom operator prepares to refuel a KC-135 Stratotanker May 14, 2013. During this flight, the boom operator helped train pilots in proper refueling procedures. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Senior Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales)

Wing CC ‘fini flight’

A KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to McConnell AFB is position by its crew for refueling May 14, 2013. The two ship formation allows aircrew members to maintain readiness with local sorties. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Senior Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales)

Wing CC ‘fini flight’

Members of the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron give a final salute to as Col. Ricky Rupp, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, taxis May 14, 2013, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. The maintenance squadron lined the flightline as the wing commander prepared to take his final fight here. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Senior Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales)

Drip-drop

Senior Airman Devon Starks, 22nd Force Support Squadron fitness center specialist, checks the pH and chlorine levels of the indoor pool at the Robert J. Dole Community Center May 8, 2013, McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. Fitness center personnel are responsible for checking these levels three times a day in addition to other duties to keep the gym clean and functional. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Victor J. Caputo)

West runway nears completion

The West runway at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan., is tentatively scheduled to reopen May 30, 2013. The runway was subject to reconstruction after an approximately $46 million renovation over the course of one and a half years. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Victor J. Caputo)