Photos Courtesy of Ann McMahon

A group of four C-130 airplanes, commonly called Hercules or Hercs, and 12 V-22s, known as Ospreys, flew about 1500 feet off the ground over Silver City from the west to the east Wednesday afternoon about 5:30.

According to Gary Emerson, who saw the action, it is a common occurrence in the area. The Marine Corps practices the refueling, as is it a risky operation because of the size of the Osprey propellers. He also said they usually practice in the area south of Silver City, but usually at night.

The Hercules aircraft are refueling the Ospreys. On close inspection of the photos courtesy of Ann McMahon, a reader can see the fuel lines dangling from the Hercs.