JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD -- As news of Tropical Storm Debby’s imminent landfall began to reach the 62d Airlift Wing’s Airfield Management Office, Team McChord prepared the flightline for incoming C-17 Globemaster III aircraft evacuating in preparation for the storm.
The 437th Airlift Wing from Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, successfully evacuated six C-17s to JBLM ahead of Tropical Storm Debby by Aug. 5, 2024.
“We’ve supported Charleston before, they reached out to us earlier as a potential area to evacuate to, so current operations, maintenance, transient alert, and Airfield Management operation all did a quick huddle to see if we could support,” said Eiliene Rodriguez, 62d Operations Support Squadron airfield manager.
Logistical considerations included space available and evaluating the level of maintenance support JBLM could offer.
“McChord was more than happy and willing to provide all the back shop support, allowing us to bring only the bare minimum of maintainers needed,” U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Tini Fredrick, 437th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, officer in charge explained.
This strategy ensured the evacuation was both efficient and manageable; JB Charleston crews continued to perform missions, even after relocating.
“One of our tails departed to continue its mission, and another is scheduled for an upcoming mission,” Fredrick added. “The remaining aircraft stayed at JBLM until they received an all-clear call from JB Charleston.”
Communication and coordination between JB Charleston and JBLM were crucial. By keeping McChord informed about the aircraft and personnel being relocated, both bases were able to make informed decisions about manpower and resources. All of the 473rd Airlift Wing’s C-17’s have returned to JB Charleston.
“We make ourselves available to not only those needing to use McChord as an evacuation site for C-17’s, but to provide service and support for all our service partners," said Rodriguez.
The effective collaboration between the two bases exemplifies their readiness in responding to emergency situations and their capability in ensuring AMC is primed to execute today’s global airlift mission no matter the circumstances. All C-17's from JB Charleston have departed JBLM, heading out on missions or returning to home base.