Inside the Air Force's Flying Gas Station | KC-135 Stratotanker

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  • Опубликовано: 16 май 2024
  • This is the Air Force's flying gas station- capable of refueling other aircraft 30,000 feet in the sky. From its unique design to its iconic mission and capabilities, join me as I explore the incredible KC-135 Stratotanker!
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    Huge thanks to the U.S. Air Force for sponsoring and making this video possible!
    THE DREAM TEAM:
    Head of Production: Chance Saechao / ckstudiio
    Creative Director: Washington Chua / washingtonchua
    Cinematographer: Nate Reimers / natereimers
    Management: Ken Kaczmarek | kaz@sameckholm.com
    VIDEO CHAPTERS:
    0:00 Introduction
    1:15 A Look Back
    2:11 KC-135 History
    3:36 Alert Mission
    4:23 Engines
    5:21 Refueling/Boom Pod
    6:45 Boom Operator
    7:18 Unique Entrance
    8:14 Cargo Bay
    8:48 Bathroom
    9:33 Navigator Seat
    10:27 Flight Deck
    13:18 Pre-Flight Briefing
    14:38 Takeoff
    15:35 Flight Plan
    16:30 Engine Demonstration
    18:33 F-16 Refuel
    23:00 Landing
    23:45 Conclusion
    --------------------------------------------
    Email: ✉️
    contact@sameckholm.com
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Комментарии • 844

  • @SamEckholm
    @SamEckholm  4 месяца назад +837

    This was a super special video for me. 🥹 Always wanted to bring my dad back to see his old aircraft. Thanks so much for watching, and let me know what video you want to see next!

  • @mclarkson78
    @mclarkson78 4 месяца назад +561

    You need to bring your dad on more flights. He’s so smart. I enjoy watching you two interact with the crews.

    • @SamEckholm
      @SamEckholm  4 месяца назад +74

      I’ll let him know!

    • @CesarDelgado-fu2nd
      @CesarDelgado-fu2nd 4 месяца назад +2

      ​@@SamEckholm thus my favorite plane ✈ from 👀 chicago 🏙 air and water show 😊😊

    • @PsRohrbaugh
      @PsRohrbaugh 4 месяца назад +3

      ​@@SamEckholm yeah I second this! He does a great job of asking questions and knowing what limits to push. Like the 2 engine flying was SO COOL.

  • @kevinmay4198
    @kevinmay4198 4 месяца назад +604

    As a current KC-135 pilot... this video captured so much about what makes this plane great. Thanks for your content!

    • @SamEckholm
      @SamEckholm  4 месяца назад +45

      That was my goal! Such an awesome aircraft.

    • @Name-bm2bg
      @Name-bm2bg 4 месяца назад

      He's preaching ​@@AHM1172

    • @TheI3lacky
      @TheI3lacky 4 месяца назад

      shut the hell up. Wrong video moron @@kinguk383

    • @thecringeinspector5636
      @thecringeinspector5636 4 месяца назад

      @@kinguk383 Hamas is a terrorist organization.

    • @jagroopahluwalia
      @jagroopahluwalia 4 месяца назад

      speak english@@kinguk383

  • @trailerentertainment6815
    @trailerentertainment6815 4 месяца назад +68

    So no one's gonna talk about other people get sponsors like Nord vpn and here's this guy who got sponsored by us air force?

    • @jaydenwatson8455
      @jaydenwatson8455 22 дня назад +2

      I thought the same thing

    • @sparklingtuna1
      @sparklingtuna1 21 день назад

      It's because the military as a whole can't get enough people to sign up, so they sponsor stuff like this to increase the numbers

    • @Hunter-iw3rm
      @Hunter-iw3rm 18 дней назад +11

      It’s not sponsored so to say. It’s a recruitment video in disguise

    • @jaydenwatson8455
      @jaydenwatson8455 17 дней назад +1

      @@Hunter-iw3rmtrue

    • @kubaBST
      @kubaBST 5 часов назад

      industry plant

  • @noahblandford2433
    @noahblandford2433 4 месяца назад +168

    Both my parents worked on the 135s, my dad was a crew chief and my mom handled the documents for them. I’ve been waiting for this video for so long. It’s so cool to see inside them again, it’s a shame they’re replacing it.

    • @James_Edward59
      @James_Edward59 4 месяца назад +4

      Did you show your parents this video?

    • @wolfdogarrow050
      @wolfdogarrow050 4 месяца назад +1

      I turned wrenches as a crew chief at McConnell

    • @haven216
      @haven216 4 месяца назад

      @@Repent-and-believe-in-Jesus1 Sod off freak

    • @Az21-
      @Az21- 3 месяца назад

      @@wolfdogarrow050 I'm currently a KC46 pilot at McConnell!

  • @hetconaviation2624
    @hetconaviation2624 4 месяца назад +270

    Awesome video production! As an editor I can appreciate the work involved in advancing the plot as a seamless viewing experience, Every scene flows into the next with no unnecessary effects. You've covered a ton of info and made the process a thoroughly enjoyable experience. It's easy to see why the Air Force trusts you to tell its stories.

    • @SamEckholm
      @SamEckholm  4 месяца назад +28

      Means a lot to the team! That's what we always strive for.

    • @CesarDelgado-fu2nd
      @CesarDelgado-fu2nd 4 месяца назад +1

      ​@@SamEckholm awesome 😊😊

  • @DMSparky
    @DMSparky 4 месяца назад +74

    Love your dad coming in with all that training knowledge and start quizzing the aircrews. I really enjoyed this one! No wonder you turned out so well with a dad like that. He must be really proud of what you have accomplished!

    • @jazzstar145
      @jazzstar145 Месяц назад

      Once he started quizzing the crews, i immediately started to feel like I was watching a check ride 😅 16:49

  • @edjarrett3164
    @edjarrett3164 4 месяца назад +118

    As a retired tanker driver, this was a pretty cool video. The cfm56 has been instrumental to the longevity of the tankers. It’s nearly a bullet proof engine that runs without complaint. I worked with our engine mechanics on stacking the n1 blades. It’s quite the technical feat when you have to replace paired blades by grams of weight. The interior of the plane was immaculate which says much about the squadron and the dedicated crew chiefs. The boom operator was cool. His real challenge is refueling stealth aircraft because of their coatings.

    • @darrenfike924
      @darrenfike924 4 месяца назад +3

      my dad loved working on old pratt and whitney JT2D early 60’s based out of clark afb in philippines 🇵🇭

    • @edjarrett3164
      @edjarrett3164 4 месяца назад +2

      @@darrenfike924 I’m sure he worked on the jt3d j33 engines. Many trips to the phillipines to Clark for typhoon evacuations. Nothing but respect and great memories.

    • @darrenfike924
      @darrenfike924 4 месяца назад

      yes @@edjarrett3164 i forgot to mention that engines too.but that the engines my dad also worked on too as well..: he said it was tons of fun doing these engines works back then

  • @robwhite2282
    @robwhite2282 4 месяца назад +33

    As a pilot and the father of a pilot, I can only imagine how proud this retired airman was to be able to join his son on his flight. Just awesome.

  • @j0seang3l
    @j0seang3l 3 месяца назад +13

    As an FCC on this jet... This video makes the 135 look even more badass!

  • @aberoxas7515
    @aberoxas7515 4 месяца назад +34

    Awesome video! I'm a retired aeromedical Evac Tech and the longest mission I ever flew was on KC-135. It was 16 hrs non-stop from Okinawa to Philadelphia to transport an 18 month old. One of my most memorable mission. I don't miss having half of my body freezing and the other half being hot lol. Thank you for highlighting this aircraft. I believe the toilet rule still applies

    • @USMC1984
      @USMC1984 4 месяца назад +3

      You are so right about being half cold and half hot! The thermal layer is about at your waist. As an SME for a Tanker Squadron, I flew with them quite often.

    • @billygoatwes
      @billygoatwes 3 месяца назад +1

      Glad you mentioned the ½ and ½, it let's me know you're real.

  • @ronquiring7796
    @ronquiring7796 4 месяца назад +38

    This video is spectacular from start to finish. The subject matter, the interviews, the integration of those involved, camera angles, editing.
    Very well done.
    I know you're proud of your dad. But he has much to be proud of in you as well.
    Keep up the good work!

    • @SamEckholm
      @SamEckholm  4 месяца назад +2

      That means a lot. Thank you!

  • @Joe-bm4wx
    @Joe-bm4wx 4 месяца назад +11

    Your dad reminds me of almost every instructor pilot I've ever had in the military. You can tell the way that he asked his questions in the cockpit. It's the same way that an IP will quiz a student. Some things never change.

  • @redbullbundy
    @redbullbundy 4 месяца назад +10

    The unsung hero of our military air power. It is so awesome the air force lets you make these videos. As Americans I feel we have a pride for our military no other country has. Thank you to all our service men and women for all you do.

  • @scooterwilson5605
    @scooterwilson5605 4 месяца назад +21

    As a retired boom operator, I can say the video reflected the actual mission pretty spot on. The pre-flight briefing was substantially more involved, but I assume was cut short purposely.

  • @leannashaberly8386
    @leannashaberly8386 4 месяца назад +7

    First time viewer & really great video. As a civilian female I was working at the Iceland NATO / US Navy base back in the '60s. One Friday night a KC-135 flight crew came into the Officers Club & I got to talking with them. Always fascinated with planes & didnt know much about the tanker. They invited me to the plane for a visit on Saturday morning & I jumped at the chance. As we said good night, one of the guys made the comment: Be sure & wear a skirt. Something about that comment raised an alarm & i made sure to wear slacks. One look at that vertical ladder the next day & i was glad i wore my slacks. Fascinating tour & ive forgotten a lot. I do remember getting to lay on my tummy & look out the rear window. Has been one of my favorite planes ever since. Thanks for jogging my memory!

  • @CalebICT
    @CalebICT 4 месяца назад +31

    Well done Sam. I do have to say that the KC-135 is not a modified Boeing 707. More like the 707 is a modified KC-135. Both aircraft are modeled on the 367-80. 135 is more like that model.The fuselage of the 135 is shorter and narrower. The wing begins it back angle where it attaches to the fuselage. The 707 has an additional section prior to the angle.

    • @flynlr
      @flynlr 4 месяца назад +4

      correct.

    • @buckcampbell4292
      @buckcampbell4292 4 месяца назад +4

      The 707 fuselage is also wider than the -80 or 135.

    • @skyden24195
      @skyden24195 4 месяца назад +2

      Most commercial aircraft, particularly in the jet-age, started out from a military request, so yeah, saying the 707 is a modified KC-135 is probably a more accurate description.

    • @tiadaid
      @tiadaid 4 месяца назад +4

      @@buckcampbell4292 Only because Pan Am forced Boeing's hand by ordering Douglas DC-8s as well as 707s. Originally the 707 was supposed to have the same width.

    • @msgtdan60
      @msgtdan60 Месяц назад +1

      Boeing placarded them as a 717. The placard is visible from the crew entry ladder. The Air Force E-3A was a modified 707. When parked next to each other the differences can easily be seen. I worked the KC-135R for ten years in the service and a year as a civilian modifying the avionics after retiring from the AF.

  • @OMG_No_Way
    @OMG_No_Way 4 месяца назад +14

    This was freaking awesome!
    I absolutely LOVE the fact your dad was in it and you two were able to share the experience. What an absolutely amazing memory, that I’m sure both of you will never forget. This was easily your best video yet. 🇺🇸

  • @napir
    @napir 3 месяца назад +7

    Just retired as boom on 135s, felt like I was still there. Thanks for showing off the most beautiful plane ever built.

  • @user-pm1gj2tc9x
    @user-pm1gj2tc9x 4 месяца назад +7

    I'm a civilian volunteer and once I organised a trip for some cadets to see the 100th ARW at RAF Mildenhall, England. I was blown away with my visit there. The area the aircraft can cover is monumental as well as the aircraft's capability being second to none. The service men and women were incredible and the kids loved every moment of it. The even got a chance to sit in and around the aircraft, including the boom operator's seat which as you say is actually really comfortable and cosy!

  • @StufffTV
    @StufffTV 4 месяца назад +15

    Said it once, will say it again, the preparation and excitement you have for the question and dialogues with the crew etc make the video. Obviously not diminuishing the work of your cameraman or editors or any other people involved. But to me, one of the best host/interviewer/journalist, dont know how to describe because sometimes you re asking pre written question, other times you just seem genuinely interested so i really like the vibe. Best of luck wish you the best, and no doubt if you keep this formula up, the sky is the limit.

    • @SamEckholm
      @SamEckholm  4 месяца назад +5

      Thank you so much 🥹

    • @GM8101PHX
      @GM8101PHX 4 месяца назад

      Having served in the Air Force I think before your Dad was born was awesome, it is my favorite branch of the military, and when other service men say I served in the chair force I remind them just one of our weapons could level a city, the other branches except the US Navy boomers do not get to handle such weapons!! Of course if you mess with one veteran or active duty you might want to expect other veterans to show up!!!@@SamEckholm

  • @afantasticdream7490
    @afantasticdream7490 4 месяца назад +3

    Proud Air Force veteran here ('09-'14) - I enjoyed supporting the air refueling + heavy cargo airlift missions as an Air Transportation specialist

  • @oldnavcat
    @oldnavcat 4 месяца назад +2

    There were at least two KC-135 incidents where at least one crewmember bailed out. The aircraft landed safely. Good credit in the video was given to navigators who were the "human GPS" back when only much simpler 1950's navigation equipment was on board.

    • @TonyCAV8R
      @TonyCAV8R 4 месяца назад

      TRUE.
      One was August, 1969, when 4 crewmembers bailed out of an airplane with engines flaming out due to fuel starvation enroute to K.I. Sawyer, MI., leaving the IP onboard to dead stick the jet to a landing short of the runway.
      In another incident, the Nav and Boom bailed out when an engine was on fire. The A/C and CO stayed with the jet and landed it uneventfully.

  • @itiswhatitis4846
    @itiswhatitis4846 4 месяца назад +3

    I lived in winton CA close to Castle AFB in Atwater CA & was invited to go on a KC 135 to refuel 2 BUFFs over San Francisco flying over the Golden Gate Bridge. It was beyond amazing & something I’ll never forget! They let me (with help & guidance) fuel the BUFFs. I knew right there I wanted to be in the Airforce! That was in the 80s & I’ve been addicted to aviation ever since! Thanks for the video & bringing back some great memories. To ALL our military, past & current, thank you for your service! 🫡

    • @itiswhatitis4846
      @itiswhatitis4846 4 месяца назад

      Unfortunately I don’t have/use social media. I rarely use FB & TBH, don’t have any need for the social media platforms. My apologies otherwise I definitely would. Take care.

  • @macedk
    @macedk 4 месяца назад +7

    The friendly banter is always there but we all know the support crew is a major factor. No gas or food etc. no mission. Tip of the spear does nothing without the rear. Logistics wins the game. Support personel just rocks :)

    • @trulyinfamous
      @trulyinfamous 5 дней назад

      An army marches on it's stomach. If there's no food, your soldiers will be too weak to fight. If you have no fuel, your combustion engines can't run. If you have no bullets, you can't shoot your guns.

  • @FlyingDylan
    @FlyingDylan 4 месяца назад +25

    Incredible video Sam ! The KC135 is truly a piece of art, and the reunion with your dad is cool. Now I'd love to see the KC-46A Pegasus in one of your videos

    • @FighterOperationsGroupFOG
      @FighterOperationsGroupFOG 4 месяца назад +2

      I saw 2 Pegasus flying formation over Southern Louisiana a few days ago. Seeing the contrails way up making a huge turn was awesome.

    • @hunterhalo2
      @hunterhalo2 4 месяца назад +1

      I fly the KC-46, its wayyy less interesting from a video perspective. Also its prohibited to record the screens, making any content moot point.

  • @neho_itme
    @neho_itme 4 месяца назад +3

    It's so beautiful to see a father and son doing what they love. You are an inspiration to me 🙏

  • @user-db2rb4nv4c
    @user-db2rb4nv4c 4 месяца назад +1

    This was a good video my uncle was a dedicated crew chief for the 135s at Altus AFB for 26 years ! 135s hold a special part in my heart because of him . He pretty much raised me , and he’s the reason why I’m an aircraft maintainer in civil service ! As soon as I finished watching this video I sent it right to him ! Awesome content!

  • @chaserevier006
    @chaserevier006 4 месяца назад +4

    I’m an electrical and environmental maintainer at macdill Air Force base for the KC135 and I absolutely loveddd this video

  • @njjeff201
    @njjeff201 2 месяца назад +1

    Thank you for having us along. We love our Vets! Thank you all for your Service 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

  • @seandelaney-gesing7585
    @seandelaney-gesing7585 4 месяца назад +2

    Great to see your Dad relive his Air Force days. What a knowledgable guy! Fantastic video as always, @SamEckholm!
    Granted the video I'm going to recommend will be difficult to get the clearance to make...but it would be fantastic to see a video done on the Navy P-8. Thanks for all your efforts!

  • @s7w7o7t
    @s7w7o7t 4 месяца назад +4

    My grandpa retired out of the Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel. He spent several winters at the Famcamp on Macdill. As soon as I saw what plane this video was about I knew it was going to have to be Macdill. I went down three different times and spent a week at Macdill at the Famcamp. Great base, great people, and great planes.

  • @mwnader
    @mwnader 4 месяца назад +5

    Can't wait for this Thank you for your Service! Keep up the Great Content📷😄

  • @icun2212
    @icun2212 4 месяца назад +3

    16:30 if i were Lt. Abby i would have sweated a lot afraid being questioned by my checker.
    Nice crews, and absolutely nice video, Sam

  • @DeathPenny
    @DeathPenny 4 месяца назад +8

    In the early 80’s my dad was stationed at RAF Fairfield in the UK - a KC-135 base that occasionally hosted B-52’s - I remember how much louder the A model tanker engines were with the water injection engines during take off - we live off base about 10 miles away - and when they would start flying around 4-5am the sound was ridiculous - especially when compared the new engines on the 135. Good times.

    • @stagle51183
      @stagle51183 4 месяца назад +1

      Id imagine many people living near the AFB being annoyed at the sounds

    • @johnhickman106
      @johnhickman106 4 месяца назад +1

      Minor tweak; it’s RAF Fairford over here in the UK.

    • @DeathPenny
      @DeathPenny 4 месяца назад

      @@johnhickman106 I know it’s Fairford, we used to live in South Cerney - auto correct is a bitch lol!!

  • @TannerSpotsPlanes
    @TannerSpotsPlanes 4 месяца назад +2

    Literally my most favorite video. I've always wanted to learn a little more bout the KC-135, and this one delivered. Great video Sam!

  • @X_Hog
    @X_Hog 4 месяца назад +1

    Great video Sam, and it was great to get your dad’s insights into the venerable KC-135. Thanks to the crew for being such great hosts.

  • @iamsam8446
    @iamsam8446 4 месяца назад +3

    Capt Elliot looks like a young guy. Awesome he can operate with such responsibility.

  • @BobI-jb4rk
    @BobI-jb4rk 4 месяца назад +7

    Mad respect to you for having the balls to go on extreme adventures to create your videos! Happy New Year!

  • @ACoarseGuy
    @ACoarseGuy 4 месяца назад +2

    Wonderful video! You and your dads excitement are more than clear!
    Y’know I never quite realized how cool the KC-135 (and mid air refueling as a whole) is!

  • @markburton8680
    @markburton8680 4 месяца назад +2

    Sam, great video! My father like yours was an accomplished U. S. A. F. pilot. He flew B-29, KB-29, and the KC-135A. He flew several other aircraft during his 29 year career and the 135 was his favorite.

  • @musamusa2961
    @musamusa2961 3 месяца назад +2

    Wow that's awesome, father and son moment

  • @shadownor
    @shadownor 4 месяца назад +3

    Dude this is an awesome video, good for you and your dad and the ground/flight/ops crew involved!

  • @stevestiles95670
    @stevestiles95670 4 месяца назад +2

    There was at least one use of the escape hatch and parachutes. A crew flying from Wurtsmith AFB in Oscoda Michigan, was running out of fuel. If I remember correctly a few of the engines had shut down due to fuel starvation. The Aircraft Commander thought he could make it back 0:30 to landing. The rest of the crew did not, and they took it upon themselves to bail out. Which they did safely! The Aircraft Commander did get it safely back on the ground.
    0:30 0:30 FYI. I flew the water wagon KC-135A/Q for 3 assignments starting in 1976 with the 916 ARS at Travis the 100th ARW at Beale, and then the 376th SW at Kadena. Then I was assigned to HQ SAC in 1990 to the Tanker Program Office. I heard the story about the bailout from our Vice Wing Commander while stationed at Kadena. He had been a crew member in the Wurtsmith Squadron when the bailout occurred. While at SAC, we finally got the parachutes removed from the aircraft and I think we no longer required the crews to carry helmets. For my entire time flying we did wear the parachutes and helmets while air refueling.

  • @WoodworkerDon
    @WoodworkerDon 4 месяца назад +3

    Aim High, Air Force. I was an Airborne Cryptologic Linguist in the 1980s on RC135, EC130, and E3A.

  • @louisstennes3
    @louisstennes3 4 месяца назад +2

    I won't go into war stories but I was an enlisted crew guy on RC135 models with some crew time in the NC model. Folks don't know how many variants of the 135 there are. Even within the RC configuration there are variants. We had boom pods but the boom itself was removed on most acft. Since we took "gas" we were airborne more hours than a KC model. Literally flew around the world. My longest missions were approx. 24 hours. At the time we also had water injected acft and fan jets too.

  • @mogsyman
    @mogsyman 4 месяца назад +1

    Video of the day 👍 To have your dad with you, how fantastic, making memories for many years to come.

  • @justinjerskey
    @justinjerskey 4 месяца назад +9

    Yo can’t wait!

    • @JetStreamXOfficial
      @JetStreamXOfficial 4 месяца назад

      wait… HOW!? JUST.. HOW!? 1 DAY AGOooh your a member

    • @justinjerskey
      @justinjerskey 4 месяца назад

      @@JetStreamXOfficial it’s cuz he premiered it so you could comment on it early

  • @420folife
    @420folife 4 месяца назад +2

    My grandfather was a FAC and a B-52 bomber pilot in Vietnam. Then he transitioned to being a B52 pilot on alert after Vietnam and retired at Lt Colonel. He’s got so many cool and interesting stories from his days in the airforce and in Vietnam. I’m sure your dad helped fuel your love of the airforce and planes with his stories.

  • @Kotixvii
    @Kotixvii 4 месяца назад +5

    Such a beautiful thing to see is a black American captain. Salute to you my brotha 🫡🤝🏿.

  • @FunFacts101-
    @FunFacts101- 4 месяца назад +5

    My grandpa flew the kc135 and refueled jets following it and he’s given me the motivation to hopefully join the academy

  • @0711emilio
    @0711emilio 4 месяца назад +2

    All your videos are awesome. Having your dad on this one must have been very special for you

  • @RhinoZone305
    @RhinoZone305 4 месяца назад +4

    Another great video Sam. Dad is a natural on cam, did he get that from you, or did you get it from him?
    Won't be at all surprised to see Dad's new Channel being listed in the YT suggestions LOL - Sam 👍 Dad 👍

  • @A-sh822
    @A-sh822 4 месяца назад +2

    As someone who wants to fly the KC-135 one day in the Air Force this is awsomr

  • @S_M_360
    @S_M_360 4 месяца назад +2

    Great vid! Learned a ton about the missions

  • @StratoArt
    @StratoArt 4 месяца назад

    What an awesome experience with your dad! Thank you for covering the Stratotanker! For me, it was a great honor and privilege to take care of these Stratotankers as a USAF flying crew chief! Though I didn't like being away from my wife so much, I did love working on these venerable jets, even painting squadron pride nose art on five lead KC-135 aircraft at Fairchild AFB, WA, in the 1990s. NKAWTG! NOBODY!

  • @flightscapeaviationphoto
    @flightscapeaviationphoto 4 месяца назад +1

    What an awesome "full-circle" production Sam. Had to be so amazing. As usual... great detail, great information, always learn something. You never fail to deliver SUPERB content 🏆

  • @AndrzejHeller
    @AndrzejHeller 4 месяца назад

    Excellent video! Thank you for giving us opportunity to see how it is like to be inside KC 135 during aerial refuelling mission!

  • @USAIRFORCE621
    @USAIRFORCE621 4 месяца назад +1

    When I lived in Bowie, MD just outside DC I used to see KC-135R's flying over my house at regular intervals, sometimes with F-16's from 121st FS of the DC ANG in trail, its an old aircraft but still just as beautiful! In addition Sam it is great to see and hear your father's experiences with this aircraft, actually a long time friend of mine, his father in law flew these in the Air Force reserve!

  • @theaudiophileshow4410
    @theaudiophileshow4410 2 месяца назад +1

    love this epsiode. really makes me miss my dad. So glad that you can share this kind of moment with him and create new memories. Treasure the time

  • @justinmorgan4568
    @justinmorgan4568 19 дней назад

    I was a KC-135 crew chief. At first I wasn't to excited about the plane because I thought it was boring. But after working on it, and knowing everything it can do, I truly love and respect it just as much as my wife.
    Also I noticed the 141ARW... That's MY unit. Much love! 👌

  • @davef.2329
    @davef.2329 4 месяца назад +2

    Sam, that's a great video and a nice Christmas surprise for your dad. Thanks for sharing this and to all the folks who made it happen.

  • @kevinmann3063
    @kevinmann3063 5 дней назад

    Thanks so much for the video! I was a crew chief for the 135 from 92-96... I was proud to have my name on 57-3137 Steamin-Screamin with the old J57 engines... Unfortunately she was slotted for the bone yard and not the upgrade. The crew chiefs were the ones to empty the toilets back then. Our rule was a 6 pack of beer if the crew went #2 on the flight... Funny thing is no one ever paid up lol... Im still owed at least a case of beer... Such a critical aircraft that doesnt get the credit it deserves! I just missed doing the Alert aircraft in support of the B1 in Abilene... They started to change the mission of the B1 back then from nuclear to conventional... Interesting trivia on the Alert KC-135s at Dyess... The alert load out was 190k of fuel... The rumor back then is only one pilot was successful on the simulator to get the 135 airborne with the J57 engines on the length of runway being that heavy! Glad we never had to test that out... With the new engines that would have never been an issue... Lots of fun memories and great experiences with great people! Glad the 135 is still working hard!

  • @andrewjackson8401
    @andrewjackson8401 4 месяца назад +1

    Thats awsome you got your dad to come back and be in video with you on a plane he flew long ago!!!!!!! You will never forget this

  • @shlok1222
    @shlok1222 4 месяца назад +1

    Thanks Sam for the knowledge u provide 👍

  • @bigman55434
    @bigman55434 Месяц назад +1

    This was a great video. Love seeing your dad and his perspective. Great production quality. Love the collaboration with the Air Force.

  • @tippo5341
    @tippo5341 26 дней назад

    Thank you Sam for this great presentation, and for giving your father another look into the aircraft he flew, was a great memory for him I'm sure....just a brilliant video from start to finish, and the professionalism of all the AF personell involved throughout speaks volumes for the calibre of the members of not just the USAF, but from what I've seen, the better part of all arms of the US forces, a true credit to all.
    I've been a follower of the US military from a very young age (born in Canada and in Australia since 5 yo), and no other pictures fascinated me as a C5, or a C141 or better still the SR71 getting a top up from these beautiful KC135's, the art of military ingenuity, and precision is nothing short of amazing....thank you again, and a new sub, keep up the great work young man, and keep making your father proud of all you do!!!!
    Cheers from Aus!!!

  • @douglaslivengood359
    @douglaslivengood359 4 месяца назад +2

    When I was in AFROTC. I got to ride in a KC-135 out of McConnell AFB. It was a great memory

  • @glb_tvlr
    @glb_tvlr 4 месяца назад +2

    Excellent video! The KC-135 is one of my favorite jets to fly in. I like to call it “Seasons Change” as the temperature likes to fluctuate in the passenger area. Flying out of March AFB, California and Kadena AB, Japan, is always a good time. It’s always nice to see the boom operator at work, too!
    I used to fly alongside the 50th AS (Red Devils) at Little Rock AFB, in the C-130. I see they’ve moved on to tankers now. Well done!

  • @bundallo
    @bundallo 4 месяца назад +1

    Beautiful video
    First time I can see the whole process of aerial refueling with KC-135
    Great job!

  • @user-dl8yv8nk4q
    @user-dl8yv8nk4q 3 месяца назад

    I was a Crew Chief on tail number 59-1507 until it went in for the R-model config and then crewed 58-0093 as an A-model, both with J57-59Ws when stationed at Loring AFB, Maine 85-89. This video is awesomely good!! I was fortunate to have a friend retire after 40 years at McConnell last March and was able to go up in one of these after many many years, with a guy who seriously knows them. The jets even have a particular smell, and that took me back decades. ...same jets, but also not the same jets, those who know, know, but upgrades over the years ... i remember when we closed up all the sextant windows, had the new FSAS installed, but got out (wish i hadn't) before the glass gauges. Good times, traveled the world in a short time, and am extremely proud of it. Miss these jets.

  • @benburra6655
    @benburra6655 3 месяца назад +1

    Great job on the content, story & editing. Very professional! Additionally, to be with your old man…absolutely priceless!

  • @jacksnowmanjs
    @jacksnowmanjs 4 месяца назад +6

    At this point Sam really outta just being making the USAF recruiting videos;
    With how high the production quality is along with the knowledge and seeing everything up close, it's just an amazing insight so far into many Air Force/Military aircraft.

    • @Constabruity
      @Constabruity 4 месяца назад

      This is most certainly a recruiting video, but isn’t branded as such 😉

    • @davidkak1354
      @davidkak1354 4 месяца назад

      What do you think this is?

    • @mrspecs9211
      @mrspecs9211 4 месяца назад

      It’s literally sponsored by the usaf 😂

  • @darrenfike924
    @darrenfike924 4 месяца назад +1

    FANTASTIC JOB, Sam… i loved watching what our air force guys/ladies does in any aircraft they does their job to protect and serve our country… my dad was also in air force too doing as aircraft mechanic and crew chief stationed at clark afb in philippines 🇵🇭…AWESOME stories my dad told me about that …

  • @adeyinkasokunbi8132
    @adeyinkasokunbi8132 4 месяца назад

    Awesome video Sam. I look forward to every one of your videos cos apart from being a military aircraft enthusiast, the editing and production are also excellent. I especially enjoyed this episode; your dad must be so proud. Keep being an inspiration!

  • @RG_Errorr
    @RG_Errorr 4 месяца назад +1

    as a current active kc-135 crew chief thanks for making the video. everyone hates on tanks but nkawtg. also i hope u loved macdill. its an amazing base

  • @MrDroolBuckets
    @MrDroolBuckets 4 месяца назад +2

    as always
    great work with these videos

  • @user-ds6ml2fz3q
    @user-ds6ml2fz3q 3 месяца назад +1

    Loved the video.Was a J-57 engine mac on the "hogs" at P-burg AFB 74-79,switched to the TF-30 on the FB-111's in the engine shop.What a sight to see all the alert birds starting during an ORI using their cartridge starters, talk about smoke.Got to go on an "insentive flight",flew over Vermont and were suppose to link up with F-100's from the CT ANG but they got scrubbed so we just flew around and burned up a bunch of JP-4..Good memories at Plattsburgh and the AF,experience helped me in my career as a techncian with Fed Ex for 39 years.

  • @swornthekillerintown
    @swornthekillerintown 4 месяца назад +2

    Another banger. So glad your dad was able to inform us about the kc-135. I knew about the parachutes, however the drop out for having to bail I didn't know about that. It makes sense how it was modified though.

  • @user-dl9ji4sw4c
    @user-dl9ji4sw4c 3 месяца назад

    My father was a combat navigator of KC 135's in Vietnam. Graduated in 1964 from The Citadel...I miss him intensely...thank you for sharing this with us...

  • @brettsbaker
    @brettsbaker Месяц назад

    This is great. I’m one of the few who call the KC-135 their absolute favorite aircraft in the USAF arsenal. Was stationed at RAF Mildenhall from 1992-95 & flew with the 100th ARW on countless missions, to a half dozen countries. The crews were always top-notch pros who not knew what they were doing, but knew how to make each run an enjoyable one. Keep up the great work, look forward to digging into more of your content.

  • @rassjnr
    @rassjnr 4 месяца назад

    Bro, much respect! Quality content! Right on!!

  • @Space_and_Polar
    @Space_and_Polar 4 месяца назад +1

    Can't wait to see it!))
    Keep up making great content!))

  • @michiganmike7167
    @michiganmike7167 3 месяца назад

    One of the coolest RUclips videos I’ve come across. This is a exceptional example of what this platform was designed for. Keep up the good work

  • @andrewmiller4573
    @andrewmiller4573 4 месяца назад +3

    Great video! Makes me miss my time in, a thousand years ago. I also grew up partially in South Tampa even before I joined in '86. Macdill was a TAC base back then with F16s. Many years later 2010 to be exact, I ended up back in Tampa and was really surprised to see Tankers at Macdill.

  • @evan.435
    @evan.435 4 месяца назад

    Always love seeing this plane takeoff and practice near my house in Knoxville, TN. Cool to see what these are all about more in-depth. Great video!

  • @NegiTaiMetal011
    @NegiTaiMetal011 3 месяца назад +1

    Another awesome presentation. The Air Force could need some more love. And I give thanks to your dad for his service in the Air Force. Salute to him!

  • @jjsifo1
    @jjsifo1 4 месяца назад +1

    That was one of the best videos ever,thank you.

  • @acollier
    @acollier 4 месяца назад +1

    Easily the best tanker video I’ve seen, well done!

  • @gloriouslyimperfect
    @gloriouslyimperfect Месяц назад

    This was one of the planes my dad navigated. The first time I got to go inside one as a kid what the exact time I realized what my dad did for our country. Thanks for this. Miss the old man every day.

  • @kevinvelazquez6214
    @kevinvelazquez6214 4 месяца назад +6

    Planning to be a boom operator in the USAF! Its a cool job and i was trying to find a video more ik depth on what its like to be one and now that i seen this video im convinced. Thanks sam!

    • @GeorgeGalligan
      @GeorgeGalligan 4 месяца назад

      I'm from the UK so our military is different. Is a boom operator enlisted aircrew over in US or is it officers?

    • @DeepBlue1882
      @DeepBlue1882 4 месяца назад

      @@GeorgeGalligan Enlisted

    • @kevinvelazquez6214
      @kevinvelazquez6214 4 месяца назад

      @@GeorgeGalligan They’re enlisted the only thing you have to do is get a high enough score on the ASVAB to qualify for it

    • @yankeetango
      @yankeetango 4 месяца назад

      @@GeorgeGalligan Enlisted.

    • @spicysnowman8886
      @spicysnowman8886 4 месяца назад

      ​@@GeorgeGalligan enlisted

  • @rajanater14
    @rajanater14 4 месяца назад +2

    I loved the video. I'm a reservist in the AF as a Fuel Systems mechanic out of Seymour Johnson who used to work on the 135, so definitely felt nostalgic watching this.
    Any plans on doing a similar video for the KC-46?

  • @specag31
    @specag31 4 месяца назад +1

    I was at Minot AFB 76-78 when the KC-135s were still "Water Wagons." I worked in the PRIDE Building so we didnt hear everything on the run way but the F-106s on full military power so we would look at our watches and say"T minus 18 minutes." My OIC was a KC135 pilot pulling admin duty so i got to hear all his refueling stories and 'Nam stories becsuse he was a 20 year old Army Huey pilot. Good man.

  • @emmanuelflowerslawrence3930
    @emmanuelflowerslawrence3930 4 месяца назад

    Thanks for your service guys! Thanks for the video. Those F-16 looked beautiful,powerful,

  • @stewarthill5878
    @stewarthill5878 4 месяца назад

    Thanks for sharing this Sam and it was fun to see you and your dad together. Very cool.

  • @dmoore319
    @dmoore319 Месяц назад

    Great video and being a former Air Force member, I recognize and appreciate the crew's outstanding professionalism and knowledge. This is just another reason we should be proud of our military.

  • @bigboy5428
    @bigboy5428 Месяц назад +1

    It's crazy that aircraft is from 1957 and still going strong. The back bone of the US airforce. The unsung hero

  • @andrewmontgomery5621
    @andrewmontgomery5621 4 месяца назад +2

    I have actually been in one of those KC-135s of the 100th Air Refuelling Wing at RAF Mildenhall when I was in the Air Training Corps.

  • @chrisbreezy-ryanbarbosa4320
    @chrisbreezy-ryanbarbosa4320 4 месяца назад

    Sam please keep doing these videos as long as possible. They are great. God Bless you and you Pap!

  • @henrymorrey4150
    @henrymorrey4150 4 месяца назад +1

    That’s pretty awesome you worked hard to get your dad up in the air in this plane. That had to have been amazing for him. Good job