MInnesota C-130 arrives at Volk Field to freezing rain

A 133rd Airlift Wing, Minnesota Air National Guard C-130 Hercules taxis on the runway at Volk Field, Air National Guard Combat Readiness Training Center after arrival on January 24, 2010 from St. Paul, Minnesota. The C-130 Hercules primarily performs the tactical portion of the airlift mission. The aircraft is capable of operating from rough, dirt strips and is the prime transport for air dropping troops and equipment into hostile areas. The C-130 operates throughout the U.S. Air Force, serving with Air Mobility Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, Air Combat Command, U.S. Air Forces in Europe, Pacific Air Forces, Air National Guard and the Air Force Reserve Command, fulfilling a wide range of operational missions in both peace and war situations. Basic and specialized versions of the aircraft airframe perform a diverse number of roles, including airlift support, Antarctic ice resupply, aeromedical missions, weather reconnaissance, aerial spray missions, firefighting duties for the U.S. Forest Service and natural disaster relief missions. The C-130 is here with members of the 133rd to take part in a Operational Readiness Exercise. U.S. Air Force photo/Tech Sgt. Erik Gudmundson