SIOUX CITY | The 185th Air Refueling Wing in Sioux City has been awarded the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for exceptionally meritorious service.
The award was announced by the National Guard Bureau in Washington, D.C. The 185th posted news of the award on the wing's website Thursday.
According to the award citation, the 185th has continued to regularly provide mission capable aircraft and airmen for deployments around the world for both flying and mission support operations.
Col. Larry Christensen, commander of the 185th wing, said the award is a reflection of the great workers at the base. The award has been given to the 185th now for a ninth time, with this one covering the two-year period through December 2016.
"The people in our communities have a strong work ethic. It is our unit members that make the unit what it is, but it is also great to have the recognition of the National Guard Bureau to validate our commitment to excellence," said Christensen.
The unit is comprised of more than 900 full- and part-time members. The 185th flies and maintains eight KC-135R Sratotanker mid-air refueling aircraft. The unit’s main mission is mid-air refueling but is also made up of numerous support elements in the global mission of the Air Force.
Currently, the 185th is underway with an overseas mission as part of the Air National Guard base's largest deployment since the Vietnam War. The 185th is nearing the projected deployment of 300 members by early 2018.
The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award is given to units that have distinguished themselves by exceptional meritorious service or outstanding achievement.
"We would not be able to do this without the support of our communities, our family members, employers and civic leaders. Our members serve proudly and they are a great reflection of the communities they come from. Their commitment as well as the commitment of our communities is crucial to our success," Christensen added.