KC-135 Pilot Mark "SLUGGO" Hasara | Tanker Operations & Operation Epic Fury
Tonight we launch the first installment of our Freedom 250: American AirPower series, a new RampCheck Aviation segment celebrating the role aviation has played in defending the United States as the nation approaches its 250th birthday.Our first guest is Mark Hasara, retired U.S. Air Force KC-135 tanker pilot, combat veteran, aviation speaker, and author of Tanker Pilot: Lessons from the Cockpit.Over a career spanning more than two decades, Mark flew the KC-135 Stratotanker, supporting air operations around the world by refueling fighters, bombers, and other aircraft in flight — the mission tanker crews jokingly refer to as “passing gas for a living.”Tonight’s Discussion✈️ Mark’s career flying the KC-135 Stratotanker⛽ The critical role aerial refueling plays in modern air warfare🛩️ The KC-135 and KC-46 Pegasus roles in ongoing operations such as Operation Epic Fury🤖 The future of aerial refueling and proposals for unmanned tanker aircraftBreaking Aviation NewsWe will also briefly discuss the developing reports of a suspected mid-air incident involving two KC-135 tanker aircraft over Iraq.While information is still emerging, Mark will help provide professional insight into tanker operations and how incidents like this are analyzed within the aviation community.Our goal is always to provide context and understanding — not speculation.Join us live for the launch of this new series and bring your questions for Mark.📅 Date: March 15, 2026📅 LIVE — Sundays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 7:30pm MT💬 Drop your takes, questions, and hot opinions — we’ll bring them into the discussion. ✈️ Military • Commercial • Airpower • HistoryWant Aviation Merch That Doesn't Suck?https://www.rampcheckglobal.com/shop-1If you would like to share your aviation journey with us or for media inquiries and show sponsorships please email: [email protected] views expressed by RampCheck Aviation and it's guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of their employers or the U.S. Government.