Riedel is new chief pilot for 74th ARS Published Dec. 15, 2006 GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind -- Air Force Reserve Maj. Thomas Riedel has assume the duties as the chief pilot for the 74th Air Refueling Squadron at Grissom ARB. He is the son of Alfred and Anne Marie Riedel of Lady Lake, Fla. Major Riedel is a 15-year veteran of the Air Force and is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Co., and Emery-Riddle Aeronautical University. As the chief pilot, he plays a key role in the day-to-day operations of the 74th ARS. Some of his key duties include supervising, mentoring and training other pilots, ensuring compliance with current Air Force and Air Force Reserve Command policies, and management of budget, resources and personnel. The 74this one of two KC-135R Stratotanker squadrons assigned to the 434th Air Refueling Wing. The KC-135R is the Air Force's primary tanker and provides aerial refueling to a variety of fighter, bomber and cargo aircraft. The 434th Air Refueling Wing is the largest KC-135R unit in the Air Force Reserve Command and its people and aircraft routinely deploy around the world to support various Air Force missions.
