The 128th Air Refueling Wing (ARW) Community Council, a 501(c)(3) organization operates in support of the military base at Gen. Mitchell Field in Milwaukee. The Wing was recently informed that it is one of 15 military installations across the country vying for the basing of the KC-46, a state-of-the-art air refueling tanker. The new aircraft is more efficient, has increased capacity to support the mission, and ensures the long-term strength of the 128th here in Milwaukee. This is big news for the city and southeast Wisconsin.  Here’s a link to a recent story featuring Col. Merkel on UPFRONT, as well as this link to a story Charles Benson of TMJ4 did recently, both summarizing the opportunity

The 128th ARW is Milwaukee’s Hometown Airforce, and one of Milwaukee’s best-kept secrets, but we’re hoping you can help change that. The Community Council is overseeing the advocacy campaign responsible for creating awareness that Milwaukee is best-suited to house the KC-46 – and ensuring that decisionmakers in Washington see the enthusiasm and support from the community. The advocacy effort will include earned media, events, and advertisements that build and harness support. This will take financial backing through sponsorships from key businesses and leaders who are invested in the future of the 128th ARW and its economic impact on Milwaukee as well as the entire state. The new fleet of planes would attract active-duty civilian workers to our area, help grow our population and fill our schools. It’s also a way to show your appreciation to your veteran employees.