The mission of the Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas, is divided between two commands. The 7th Bomb Wing flies the B-1B Lancers and the 317th Airlift Group flies the C-130H Hercules. Between the two of them, they can deliver whatever you want: supplies, paratroopers, or "Death from Above."

That last is the motto of the 7th Bomb Wing. The B-1B they fly is capable of carrying the heaviest payload of any bomber and can be reconfigured to carry a wide range of nuclear weapons. It can fly intercontinental missions without the need to refuel. The B-1B has sophisticated offensive and defensive avionics, which can be recalibrated during flight. The B-1B holds 43 world records for speed, payload, range, and time of climb.

The Lancers deliver the bombs and the Hercules deliver everything else. The C-130H has been in production for more than 40 years. This remarkably versatile carrier can transport 92 combat troops, 64 fully equipped paratroops or 74 litter patients. It has been an extremely valuable asset, especially in the conflicts surrounding the Persian Gulf.

Peaceful Missions for the C-130H

The 317th Airlift Group also flies many missions of mercy, delivering food, clothing, medical personnel and supplies to refugees. Moving civilians out of danger zones and delivering heavy equipment to developing nations have also been part of their mission. From bombs to baby bottles, the pilots and crews from Dyess Air Force Base can deliver it all.