Smoky Hill hosts Operation Air Force Published July 22, 2010 By Capt Alyson Stockton 184 IW/PA Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range -- Cadets from the U.S. Air Force Academy's Class of 2012 visited Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range July 21 as part of Operation Air Force. The program aims to help the cadets, who are committed to five years of active duty once they return to classes next month, choose the career field in which they will serve after commissioning in 2012. Cadets observed a day of flying operations that featured A-10 and F-16 close air support. The training they witnessed included simulated operations by a Tactical Air Control Party unit. During their three-week visit, the seven cadets spent one day with the 184th in order to gain perspective on the Total Force, learning what characteristics distinguish reserve components from active duty. "After today, I can definitely say I like the Guard," Cadet Second Class Hanna Marlette said after the tour concluded. "I can see myself doing this after active duty."