4397th Air Refueling Wing (Training)
military unit
The United States Air Force's 4397th Air Refueling Wing (Training) was an air refueling training unit located at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas. It operated Boeing KC-97 Stratofreighters with an authorization for 40 aircraft. The wing was assigned to 2d Air Force
History
In 1958, Air Training Command (ATC) transferred its crew training to the operational commands. Its 3511th Combat Crew Training Squadron at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas had been performing crew training for Boeing KC-97 Stratofreighter as part of the 3510th Combat Crew Training Wing. On 1 July 1958 Strategic Air Command (SAC) formed the 4397th Air Refueling Wing to perform this function. The wing mission was to provide comprehensive training for air refueling crews. It focused on qualifying and crews to maintain proficiency in aerial refueling operations, enabling SAC's strategic bomber and reconnaissance units to conduct extended-range missions during the Cold War and extend the reach and endurance of SAC's Boeing B-47 Stratojets and Boeing B-52 Stratofortresses.
Training emphasized the operational aspects of the KC-97, which utilized a flying boom method to refueling jet-powered bombers. Crews received instruction in the swift and accurate execution of refueling procedures, tailored to the demands of SAC's potential striking forces. The wing included the 4397th Combat Crew Training Squadron, which conducted hands-on KC-97 instruction.
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