[Tea Party Reveler]

The Route of flight was different then that straight line of course-—It probably went Whiteman, Atlanta, Charleston, Lajes, Rota, Sigonella, then turn towards the IP and bomb release run with probably 4 aerial refuels involved ont the way there and back.

The only “creature comforts” they have is a lawnchair placed behind them for one pilot to catch some Z’s enroute. The longest flight I ever flew was Travis direct to Saudi Arabia during Operation Determined Resolve back in the summer of ‘87. (Iranians throwing mines into the Persian Gulf).

[verum ago]

Here's the great circle route, Whiteman AFB to Tripoli International:


I wouldn't be surprised if they bumped just a bit to the north to overfly France instead of Spain if Spain refused permission and to avoid Tunisia.

Even if they did nothing but aerial refuelings and took the shortest route it's still pretty darn impressive.
(Not to mention @$$-numbing)

[caww]

My son was in Operation Desert Shield out Of California. Flight deck Crew Chief at that time. Later he operated within the Psyops Plane, though not much he could share about that or his missions.

Thank you for your service..very much.