Where is McChord Air Force Base?
McChord Air Force Base is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in the state of Washington, USA. Situated approximately 9 miles (14 km) southeast of Tacoma, McChord AFB is part of the Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) military complex, which also includes Fort Lewis, a US Army base.
Overview of McChord Air Force Base
McChord AFB is an active-duty base that operates as a hub for Air Mobility Command (AMC), providing aerial transportation and logistics support to the US military and allied nations. The base has a rich history, dating back to 1927 when it was established as McChord Field. Over the years, it has undergone several name changes, with the current title being McChord Air Force Base since 1951.
Location
As mentioned earlier, McChord AFB is located in the state of Washington, approximately 9 miles (14 km) southeast of Tacoma. The base is situated within Pierce County, which has a population of around 900,000 people.
Getting to McChord Air Force Base
Visitors and personnel arriving at the base can reach it via the following means:
- Driving: McChord AFB is accessible via Highway 16 (Hwy 16) and Highway 7 (Hwy 7). The base has multiple entry points, and visitors must use the main gate at the intersection of Hwy 16 and Hwy 7.
- Public Transportation: Pierce Transit provides public transportation services to the base, including bus routes connecting Tacoma and Lakewood. The nearest public transportation terminal is the Lakewood P&R (Park and Ride) located near the main gate.
- Flights: McChord AFB has a shared airfield with Joint Base Lewis-McChord, which is also known as McChord Field. The base is a hub for AMC and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, with regularly scheduled flights to destinations across the globe.
Security and Access
Base security is tight, and visitors must follow specific protocols to gain access:
- Identification: All personnel, including military, contractors, and visitors, must present valid identification at the gate.
- Screening: Visitors may be required to undergo security screening, including metal detectors and/or pat-downs.
- Clearance: Clearance levels vary depending on the individual’s role and authorization. Some areas of the base may require higher clearance levels.
Base Amenities and Services
McChord AFB offers various amenities and services to personnel and visitors:
- Housing: The base has on-base housing, including apartments and single-family homes, as well as off-base options.
- Dining: Multiple dining options are available on base, including fast-food restaurants, cafes, and the base exchange (BX) food court.
- Recreation: Recreational activities include fitness centers, swimming pools, libraries, and outdoor recreational facilities.
- Medical: The base has a military treatment facility (MTF) providing medical care and services to personnel and families.
Interesting Facts about McChord Air Force Base
Here are a few interesting facts about McChord AFB:
- C-17 Globemaster III hub: McChord AFB is one of the primary hubs for the C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, which provides strategic airlift capabilities to the US military.
- Air Mobility Command: As a hub for AMC, McChord AFB plays a critical role in supporting global airlift operations.
- Weather: The base is situated in a region known for its rain, with average annual rainfall of 37 inches (94 cm).
- Natural History: The surrounding area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including wetlands, forests, and wildlife such as black bears and mountain lions.
Conclusion
McChord Air Force Base is an important military installation located in the state of Washington. With its rich history and strategic location, the base plays a vital role in supporting global airlift operations and providing essential services to personnel and their families. Whether you’re a service member, contractor, or visitor, understanding the basics of the base, including its location, security protocols, and amenities, can help make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Table: McChord Air Force Base Overview
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Pierce County, Washington, USA, approximately 9 miles (14 km) southeast of Tacoma |
| Mission | Hub for Air Mobility Command (AMC), providing aerial transportation and logistics support |
| History | Established in 1927 as McChord Field, currently known as McChord Air Force Base since 1951 |
| Security | Tight security protocols, including identification and screening |
| Amenities | Housing, dining, recreation, medical services, and more |
Bullets List: Important Contacts
• Base Phone: 253-982-INFO (4636)
• Base Email: mcchord.afs@us.af.mil
• Visitation Information: https://www.jblm.army.mil/jblm-visitation.html
• Security Protocols: https://www.jblm.army.mil/jblm-security-protocols.html
Note: The above article is a general information piece and is not meant to be a comprehensive or authoritative source on McChord Air Force Base. For official information and resources, please visit the base’s official website or contact the base directly.
