1st F-35A refueling mission
Lt. Col. Eric Smith, 58th Fighter Squadron director of operations, connects his F-35A Lightning II with a KC-135R Stratotanker from the 155th Air Refueling Wing, Neb., during the first joint strike fighter air-to-air refueling accomplished by the 33rd Fighter Wing April 11. Smith also used the flight to maintain his refueling currency and proficiencies received while certifying to be the Air Force’s first F-35A pilot last summer. The 33rd FW is responsible for F-35 A/B/C pilot and maintainer training for the Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and in the future, at least eight coalition partners. (U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Casey Smith)