A U.S. Air Force KC-135 boom operator assigned to the

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 boom operator assigned to the 28th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron operates a boom to provide fuel to a U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon during an aerial refueling mission in support of Operation Inherent Resolve over Iraq, Sept. 28, 2018. Air refueling is a vital component of flying operations, allowing aircraft to stay airborne longer and support U.S. and coalition forces in the air and on the ground. U.S. and Coalition aircraft provide unmatched combat capability in support of U.S. Central Command military objectives. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Keith James)