Preparations under way for KC-135 anniversary Published July 20, 2006 By Master Sgt. Robert Shahan 72nd Aerial Port Squadron TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Tinker AFB will be the site for the KC-135’s 50th Anniversary. Patrons will gather Sept. 8-9 to celebrate the aircraft’s 50 years of service. Scheduled activities include a golf tournament, welcome reception, unit, industry and static aircraft displays, and a flyover. The events conclude with a formal banquet at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, Okla. More information, including online event and hotel registration, is available at www.kc135.org. Artist and fellow KC-135 boom operator Darby Perrin was commissioned specifically for this anniversary. You may view and order his limited edition print at www.kc135.org. Commemorative coins may be purchased and individuals may also share KC-135 stories on the Web. The KC-135 Stratotanker has a long and storied history throughout the annals of the Air Force. Its versatility is unsurpassed; having the ability to refuel aircraft during flight while modified versions can serve as flying command posts, transports, electronic reconnaissance and photo-mapping crafts.