ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Students from Enid High School’s Air Force Junior ROTC took flight in a KC-46 Pegasus aircraft during their visit to Altus Air Force Base, April 30, 2025.
The students started their tour with a welcome briefing quiz on their knowledge of the Air Force led by Chief Master Sgt. Justin Brundage, 97th Air Mobility Wing command chief.
Shortly after, they were taken to the flightline for takeoff in two KC-46 aircraft. The aircraft’s capabilities were then demonstrated with students watching a mock aerial refueling from the cockpit and boom operator’s seat.
“They get to see what their future could be and get exposure to aspects of our mission,” said Staff Sgt. Gregory Cyr, 56th Air Refueling Squadron instructor boom operator. “These are the people who are eventually going to replace us.”
Some students were also given the opportunity to sit in the jump seat for takeoff and landing, witnessing firsthand the skill required to be an Air Force pilot.
“It was really cool seeing how everything worked here at Altus compared to some of the other branches,” said Trace, Enid High School AFJROTC student. “If I did end up joining the Air Force, I would want to either be a refueler or a cargo pilot.”
AFJROTC aims to educate and train high school students in citizenship; promote community service; instill responsibility, character, and self-discipline; and provide instruction in air and space fundamentals.