McChord mobilizes for Rodeo

  • Published
  • By Tyler Hemstreet
  • Staff writer
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Nearly 3,000 sets of eyes will be intently focused on McChord this week as the base hosts Air Mobility Command's Rodeo 2007. 

Competitors and observers from all over the world will visit and tour McChord's grounds, facilities and events. According to base officials, McChord is ready for the spotlight. The 62nd Civil Engineer Squadron recently put the finishing touches on 14 construction projects around the base, said Capt. Joe Myhra, 62nd CES. 

"We've all worked hard to get them done on time," he said.  

The jobs ranged from beautification projects, such as painting touch ups on Hangars 3 and 4 to repair projects, such as resurfacing a taxiway on the flightline. 

"The old pavement was more than 50 years old and just couldn't carry the load of a C-17 Globemaster III without cracking," Captain Myhra said. 

The pavement projects also entailed replacing and restriping the pavement on the flightline where the aerospace ground equipment is kept. 

In the control tower, the 62nd CES installed a touch-screen airfield lighting control system. The system serves as an upgrade in technology and will enable Airmen in the tower to better support the increase in flying operations during Rodeo, Captain Myhra said. 

Civil engineer Airmen and contractors also installed temporary electrical support for satellite locations around the base where the 62nd Services Squadron will host activities for Rodeo including the set up of the stage for Rodeo's closing celebration. 

The big project in lodging consisted of a renovation of the administrative offices and the lobby at the Evergreen Inn. 

"It's a huge improvement over the old lobby," said lodging manager Will
Lane, 62nd SVS.  "It gives us much more space, better functionality and provides our guests with a better first impression." 

At the ground level, Rodeo preparation and mobilization put the focus on Rodeo volunteers, or "wranglers." The nearly 200 person volunteer workforce is composed of active duty and Reserve Airmen, civil air patrol and junior ROTC members, said Rodeo officer in charge of volunteers Capt. Jason York, 62nd Airlift Wing. 

The wranglers will do everything from setting up and breaking down tents at the sites for the competitions to handling visitor baggage and greeting distinguished visitors on the flightline, Captain York said. 

"They are some of the first people to meet teams when they arrive here," he said. "They get a front row seat to the action." 

The help volunteers have provided setting up tents has taken some of the burden off contractors and 62nd CES Airmen and civilians, he said. 

The long list of completed projects and cooperation between base organizations show the dedicated effort Team McChord has put forth to leave a good impression on Rodeo visitors.

Let the spotlight shine.