KC-135 LIBERTY!

The 186th Air Refueling Wing unveiled new tail design artwork on one of the KC-135R aircraft assigned to the Wing on September 22, 2026. The artwork showcases the Wing’s Mississippi roots and Meridian’s aviation heritage. Tail art traces its roots to the early days of military aviation, when markings on aircraft tails and rudders were first used primarily to identify aircraft and distinguish friendly forces.

During World War I and the years that followed, these markings evolved to include colors, stripes, numbers and unit insignia, gradually becoming symbols of squadron and unit identity. Over time, units painted tails not only as identifiers, but as a visible representation of the unit history, heritage and pride. In this spirit of esprit de corps, the tradition continues today. The artwork features the iconic “Key Bros” logo, honoring Meridian aviation pioneers Al and Fred Key, whose work helped advance air-to-air refueling technology. The brothers became interested in aviation following World War I and went on to make aviation history in 1935 when they remained airborne for 27 days over Meridian using air-to-air refueling. Their achievement established the aviation legacy that continues at Key Field today.

Shayne Meder, also known as “Fly Girl Painter,” painted the aircraft’s tail art, incorporating the Mississippi coat of arms and the American flag to connect the aircraft to its Mississippi roots and warfighting mission. With its new artwork, this tanker now carries a visible reminder of the history, innovation and aerial refueling heritage that have defined Key Field and the 186th Air Refueling Wing for generations.

It is with this same tenacity, professionalism and courage that the 186th Air Refueling Wing will fly, fight and win our nation’s wars in the decades to come.