Lackland Reserve wing hosts Air Force Academy cadets Published June 17, 2012 By Seniro Master Sgt. Minnie Jones 433 Airlift Wing JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO, Texas -- Twelve U.S. Air Force Academy cadets received a C-5 orientation flight during a visit to the 433rd Airlift Wing June 13 as part of "Operation Air Force". The three-week program, which is part of the cadets' professional development, deploys cadets to various Air Force bases to educate them on the workings of Air Force units and to acquaint them with the everyday tasks, activities, and perceptions of Air Force personnel. "Operation Air Force is a very important program for cadets and our Airmen," said Lt. Col. Thomas K. Smith, 433rd Operations Group deputy commander. "The interaction the cadets get with our Airmen accomplishing the mission is a big motivator, regardless of what career field they choose to pursue. It's always a privilege showing our future officers the operational aerial refueling capability of the C-5." Cadets interacted with both commissioned and noncommissioned officers and observed a C-5A receiving fuel from a KC-10 Extender during flight over Kansas.