185th Awarded 8th Air Force Outstanding Unit Award Published Nov. 5, 2015 By Master Sgt. Vincent De Groot 185th ARW Wing Public Affairs Sioux City, Iowa -- The 185th Air Refueling Wing, received the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award for exceptionally meritorious service from November 1, 2013 to October 31, 2015. The Air Force Outstanding Unit Award is given to units that have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious service or outstanding achievement that clearly sets the unit above and apart from other Air National Guard units. According to Col. Larry Christensen, commander of the 185th ARW this award is a reflection of the hard work members of the 185th do every day. "We have the privilege of living in a great community where our members have a strong work ethic," said Christensen. "We know we have an outstanding unit, but it is nice to have that validated by the National Guard Bureau." According to the Outstanding Unit Award citation, the 185th has continued to regularly provide mission capable aircraft and Airmen for deployments around the world, for both operational and mission support contingency operations. The wing comprised of 956 traditional and full time members. Flying and maintaining nine KC-135R air refueling aircraft and is comprised of numerous support elements. Federally the 185th provides mid-air refueling and mobility sustainment in support of the Air Force global mission. The wing also supports the state of Iowa in the event of a state emergency, while providing humanitarian, and national disaster response. "We would not be able to do this without the support of our employers," said Christensen. "I take great pride in serving Siouxland and cannot thank the community enough for their support," This marks the eighth time the 185th Air Refueling Wing has received the award.