8th Airlift Squadron deploys

  • Published
  • By Tyler Hemstreet
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
McChord's 8th Airlift Squadron left here Feb. 24 for a 120-day deployment to the war zone in support of the Global War on Terror.

The 8th AS' Airmen are deployed as the 817th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron to various locations throughout Europe, Southwest Asia and the Middle East. They replaced the 4th Airlift Squadron, which is scheduled to return here Saturday.

"Our Airmen are motivated and committed to their service," said Lt. Col. Gregory Schwartz, 8th AS commander. "We look forward to leading the 817th EAS, supporting our fellow combat warriors engaged in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom."

The feeling of teamwork and unwavering support of fellow Airmen really comes into play when one squadron leaves for deployment and another comes home, said Capt. Matt Purdiak, 8th AS.

"It's nice for us to go relieve those guys in the 4th AS because when it comes down to it, we're all on the same team," Captain Purdiak said.

Spirits were high, and all the Airmen in the 8th AS departing had a great attitude about the deployment, he said.

"The 8th AS is full of good guys and they know when it's time to work and when it's time to play," said Captain Purdiak.

And no matter the circumstances, the objective always remains the same, he said.

"We just strive to get the job done while not hurting anybody or bending any metal," Captain Purdiak said.

The 817th EAS, headquartered at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, is responsible for scheduling, planning and executing C-17 missions into the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility including Iraq and Afghanistan.

McChord's four active duty flying squadrons share responsibility for the deployed squadron.