931 ARW hosts Re-Designation Ceremony

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Preston Webb
  • 931 Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AFB, Kansas --  The 931st Air Refueling Group was re-designated as the 931st Air Refueling Wing during a ceremony held in Hangar 1107 April 30 at McConnell AFB, Kansas.

Consisting of eight squadrons and more than 600 Airmen, the 931 ARW aids its active-duty counterparts through vital contributions to the global mission of McConnell AFB.

“Warriors of the 931st Air Refueling Wing, thank you for your sacrifices while answering your nation's call,” said Maj. General John C. Flournoy Jr., 4th Air Force commander. “You could have been home, working, running a business, or attending school. Instead, you chose to serve your nation as citizen Airmen.”

The request for the re-designation was made to reflect the increased responsibilities and capabilities of the units, people and assets of the 931 ARW's citizen Airmen.

“You deliberately chose to miss personal milestones to meet challenges head-on and you've exceeded at every level,” Flournoy said. “This warrior spirit you've demonstrated will carry you through the endless challenges that lie ahead.”

The 931 ARW, commanded by Col. Mark S. Larson, shares responsibilities with the 22 ARW for aircraft maintenance, with flying operations conducted by both units, using KC-135R Stratotankers.

“Becoming a wing provides us with more opportunities. We'll be asked to do more than we've ever done with fewer people,” Larson said. “Though we'll be spread thin, it will give us character, make us stronger and let us bring up a new generation of bold leaders.”

The 931 ARW is expected to receive a new airframe, the KC-46 Pegasus, to expand its current purpose: integrating with the 22nd ARW to provide in-air refueling supporting global operations.

“I love getting the opportunity to get out of my office and visit with this unit's Airmen, because when I do, I'm inspired by you,” said. “I promise I will do everything in my power to ensure the 931st ARW crests the summit to come, so we can have more plow-horses instead of show-ponies – people to lead and navigate our expanding future.”