First time flyover

A KC-135R from the 916th Air Refueling Wing, Air Force Reserve, flies over the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte as part of the Carolina Panthers home-opener against the Green Bay Packers. The aircrew and maintainers aboard were recognized on the field during the half-time show. (USAF photo by Master Sgt. Wendy Lopedote, 916ARW/PA)

First time flyover

Aircrew and maintainers from the 916th Air Refueling Wing, Air Force Reserve, were recognized on the field at half-time for their pre-game flyover during the Carolina Panthers home opener on Sunday, Sept. 18. This was the first time a KC-135R has flown over the stadium for an NFL game. (USAF photo by Master Sgt. Wendy Lopedote, 916ARW/PA)

Total Force tanker crew honored at Panthers home opener

Published Sept. 19, 2011
By Maj. Shannon Mann
916th Public Affairs Office

SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- For the first time in Carolina Panthers history, Sunday's flyover came from the 916th Air Refueling Wing , Air Force Reserve, here.

The total force active duty and Citizen Airmen crew flew the KC-135R Statotanker over the thousands of NFL fans gathered to cheer on the Panthers against the Green Bay Packers.

The aircrew, consisting of Major Brad Davis, Captains Brian Way and Matt Carpenter, pilots; Tech. Sgt. Rich Bonnicelli and Senior Airman Drew Steuart, boom operators, and Staff Sgt. William Dunn, Senior Airman Ryan Brennan and Airman First Class Brandon Lowe, maintenance crew chiefs were recognized on the field during the half-time events.

The crew carried out its mission to perfection, flying over the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on the last note of the national anthem. Lt. Col. Andy Croom directed air operations from the stadium ensuring the perfect timing.

Unfortunately the Panthers lost to the Packers, 23 to 30.

To see more pictures from Sunday's event join the 916th Air Refueling Wing's Fan page on Facebook.