The obsolete KC-135 tankers are more than a half century old. Until last year Federal Law required that the Tankers be kept "warm ready." Meaning, that the tankers needed tire rotation, deicing, etc. even though they technically could not fly. The cost to the tax payers was more than $93,000.00 per tanker.

In late 2007 Congresswoman Boyda sought the provision into the annual National Defense Authorization Act. The provision was meant to allow Forbes Field to retire the KC-135Es. The provision passed and thus began the pending retirement of the 12 tankers at Forbes Field.

"At a time when our military readiness is stretched so thin, it makes no sense to spend millions of dollars keeping obsolete planes on life support." said Congresswoman Boyda. "Commanders should have the flexibility to spend every available dollar to improve our military readiness and keep America safe."

"Due to this change in legislation, these tankers are now being retired which allows us to maximize the capabilities and space that we have here at the 190th Air Refueling Wing." said Maj. Gen. Tod Bunting. "We currently have 10 KC-135E tankers on the ramp; however, four of those will be retired between April 3 and June 3."

Two other tankers have already been retired. Meanwhile, 10 135R tankers have arrived at Forbes and are being used.