More than Fuel: 165th Airlift Wing's newest fuels specialist learns the importance behind fueling aircraft

Photo By Senior Airman Christa Ross | U.S. Air Force Airman Basic Keara Washington, a fuels management specialist assigned to the 165th Airlift Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, poses for a photo in front of a fuel truck on the flight line at the Savannah Air National Guard Base, Georgia, July 9, 2026. Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants, also referred to as fuels management, is the specialized career field responsible for testing, managing, and distributing all fuel and liquid oxygen required to keep military aircraft operational and flying. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Christa Ross)  

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, UNITED STATES

07.07.2026

Story by Senior Airman Christa Ross 

165th Airlift Wing

SAVANNAH AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ga. – Behind every successful flight is a team of Airmen responsible for ensuring aircraft receive clean, quality fuel when and where it is needed.

As one of the newest fuels management specialists assigned to the 165th Airlift Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, U.S. Air Force Airman Basic Keara Washington is developing the technical skills and operational knowledge that help keep aircraft ready for flight operations.

Fuels management specialists, commonly referred to as Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) airmen, are responsible for aircraft refueling but their role goes beyond that. They test and maintain fuel quality, manage inventory, inspect and operate fuel equipment, and ensure aircraft receive the proper fuel safely and efficiently.

“When I chose fuels, I didn’t realize how many different responsibilities came with the job,” said Washington. “At first, I thought it was just about fueling aircraft, but I’ve learned there is so much more to it.”

Their work requires precision, attention to detail and coordination across multiple areas to keep missions moving.

Since joining the career field, Washington has gained experience working in the fuels laboratory, administration and distribution, each providing a different perspective on how fuels operations support the mission.

“It’s rewarding to know that our role helps keep aircraft fueled, safe and ready to accomplish the mission,” said Washington.

Although their work often happens behind the scenes, fuels management specialists provide the fuel that enables every sortie, every aircrew member and every mission to take flight here and across the globe.

• Date Taken: 07.07.2026
• Date Posted: 08.13.2026 09:38
• Story ID: 570198
• Location: SAVANNAH, GEORGIA, US