McChord Field

Definition

McChord Field is a military airfield located in Washington State, primarily used by the United States Air Force. It serves as an essential hub for air mobility operations and provides support for various military missions, connecting forces to airlift capabilities and logistics. The airfield is integral to the region’s aviation landscape, reflecting the importance of military aviation in the state.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. McChord Field was originally established in 1938 and has been a vital part of U.S. military operations since its inception.
2. The base is home to several Air Force units, including the 62nd Airlift Wing, which specializes in strategic airlift and provides rapid response capabilities worldwide.
3. McChord Field supports not only military air transport but also humanitarian missions and disaster relief efforts across the globe.
4. In 2010, McChord Field was officially merged with Fort Lewis to create Joint Base Lewis-McChord, enhancing operational efficiency and collaboration between the Army and Air Force.
5. The airfield is equipped with modern facilities and infrastructure to accommodate a variety of aircraft, making it a crucial asset for both training and operational missions.

Review Questions

• How does McChord Field contribute to the overall mission of the United States Air Force?
  • McChord Field plays a critical role in supporting the United States Air Force's mission by providing vital air mobility capabilities. It serves as a base for transporting troops, equipment, and supplies quickly to areas of need, both for combat operations and humanitarian assistance. The presence of units like the 62nd Airlift Wing ensures that the Air Force can rapidly respond to crises and fulfill its global commitments.
• Discuss the significance of Joint Base Lewis-McChord in relation to McChord Field's operations and its integration with other military branches.
  • Joint Base Lewis-McChord represents a significant consolidation of military resources, integrating McChord Field with Fort Lewis. This collaboration enhances operational capabilities by allowing different branches of the military to work together more effectively. The combined base facilitates joint training exercises and missions, improving readiness and streamlining support for various military operations across multiple domains.
• Evaluate the impact of McChord Field's facilities on the strategic airlift capabilities of the U.S. military in the context of evolving defense needs.
  • The facilities at McChord Field significantly enhance the strategic airlift capabilities of the U.S. military by providing advanced infrastructure that can accommodate modern aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III. As defense needs evolve, especially in response to global threats and humanitarian crises, McChord's operational efficiency allows for quicker mobilization and deployment of forces. This capability is essential for maintaining U.S. readiness in diverse scenarios, reflecting a proactive approach to both defense strategies and international cooperation.

Related terms

Joint Base Lewis-McChord: A combined military installation that includes McChord Field and Fort Lewis, hosting various branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

C-17 Globemaster III: A large military transport aircraft used by the Air Force, frequently operated from McChord Field for global airlift missions.

Air Mobility Command: A major command of the U.S. Air Force responsible for airlift and aerial refueling operations, which oversees the operations at McChord Field.