In this crazy, ever-changing media landscape, it's good to know there might be another profesion to fall back on. Earlier this week Boots on Ground tested out the simulated boom operation for the NexGen Tanker from Boeing. Boeing has a public relations campaign to push its aerial tanker to legislators, power brokers, and plain folks across the Midwest, including a stop at the Capitol in St. Paul.
BOG took the controls to refuel an F-22 fighter jet. Using both right and left hands skillfully, I tethered the hose on the first try, allowed for refueling, and pulled away with nary a hint of sexual inuendo. The Boeing guy sitting next to me assured me I did the best of anyone all day. So I have that going for me, which is nice.
St. Louis-based Boeing is in the middle of deep competition with a French company for a $35 billion contract for the Air Force aerial tanker. The company is pushing the idea of American jobs and money into the American economy with a trailer full of simulated equipment.
Former Air Force boom operator Trisha Carlson, of Eagan, took controls of the simulated Boeing 767 aircraft. Assisting her is Boeing executive Glenn Handy.
Using 3D glasses, participants could practice tethering a refueling boom to various flying aircraft.
