126th Operations Group

126th Operations Group
126th Air Refueling Wing KC-135 Stratotanker taking off to support Joint Task Force Odyssey Dawn, 24 March 2011
Active1942–1946; 1947–1953, 1953–1974, 1993–present
Country United States
Allegiance Illinois
Branch  Air National Guard
RoleAir refueling
Part ofIllinois Air National Guard
Garrison/HQScott Air Force Base, Belleville, Illinois
Nickname(s)The Silver Streaks (World War II)
Motto(s)We Win or Die (World War II) Anytime, Anywhere
EngagementsEuropean Theater of Operations
DecorationsDistinguished Unit Citation
Commanders
Current
commander
Col Jeanette A. Moore
Insignia
126th Operations Group emblem
344th Bombardment Group emblem
Tail stripe
World War II tail markingWhite triangle
Aircraft flown
TankerKC-135R

The 126th Operations Group is an air refuelling group of the United States Air Force and the Illinois Air National Guard. While its primary task is to refuel aircraft in flight, it can transport, airlift, supplies and personnel. The unit is also tasked with supporting the nuclear strike missions of the Single Integrated Operational Plan.

During peacetime, the group receives direction through the adjutant general of Illinois, the governor of Illinois and the National Guard Bureau. Upon federal mobilization, the wing is assigned to Air Mobility Command and the 15th Expeditionary Mobility Task Force.