MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Colonel Nate Vogel, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander, got the chance to talk to community leaders from Mulvane, Kansas, located 11 miles south of McConnell.
Vogel took the opportunity to answer questions about the McConnell mission and how McConnell is continuing Wichita's legacy of aviation pioneering as the first operating base of the United States Air Force's newest tanker, the KC-46A Pegasus.
"We are going through a process of conversion," said Vogel. "We have three squadrons, one currently flying the KC-46, one in the process of converting to the KC-46, and one flying the legacy tanker, set to convert in a few years. You should be very proud of your base…we are on the cutting edge of our craft.”
Building and maintaining connections with people who live and work near military bases is key to mission success. Addressing the dozens of Mulvane citizens and community leaders provided a chance to express these goals, including what Airmen contribute to the different communities they live in. Additionally, the discussion detailed how living in a stable, connected community is good for Airmen and their families.
"I want Airmen to call Mulvane home," said Vogel. "And I think you want that, too. You will get an upstanding citizen that wants to be a pillar within your community."
This visit will spark a more in depth relationship with the town of Mulvane, military leaders and the support of both our Airmen and communities.
"This opportunity gave our group the chance to get together and talk," said Frank Carson, 22nd Comptroller Squadron honorary commander, and Mulvane resident. "This meeting also gave us the understanding of what is happning at McConnell and how to help us get involved."