Keeping in touch with the past

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Keoni Chavarria
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  With time comes change, and with the ever evolving nature of culture and technology, it may be easy to forget the foundation of things. For one flying squadron at McChord Field, staying close to their heritage is a must.

The 8th Airlift Squadron celebrated its 75th anniversary at the Boeing Museum of Flight in Seattle, Wash. Feb. 19. During the event, the McChord Field Honor Guard presented the colors, followed by an invocation and opening comments from Lt. Col. Wayne Manuel, 8th AS director of operations, and Lt. Col. Chris McDonald, 8th AS commander.

McDonald talked about the changes made to the 8th AS patch throughout its history and spoke about the meaning of it. The patch contains a winged workhorse, branded at the hip with a red cross. Thus the nickname of the 8th AS, known as "workhorses."

"Through the years, there have been several variations of the 8th AS's patch," said Manuel. "However, the one thing that remains unchanged is what that patch represents, and that's a proud history of providing combat airlift for the nation."

The event honored the history and heritage of the 8th AS and to those who have served in the squadron in the past and those who are currently assigned. During the event, attendees were able to socialize with past and present members of the 8th AS.

"It was a great opportunity to remember the heritage of the squadron and reunite with friends and colleagues from days past," said Capt. David Tomlinson, 58th Airlift Squadron student training management officer.

Following dinner, guest speaker Lt. Gen. (retired) Vernon Kondra, a prior 8th AS commander, gave a few stories about his time in the military and with the squadron, and spoke on how it relates to the honor and heritage of the 8th AS.

According to Manuel, being in a squadron also gives a sense of belonging.

"The event promoted comradery and morale," said Manuel. "It is a foundation of who we are. It's our identity."

For some, like Senior Airman William Fisher, 8th AS loadmaster, the 75th Anniversary also served as a way to connect with the team.

"Events like these bring pride and morale to the squadron, and it makes for a better functioning team," said Fisher.

The 8th AS was established Oct. 1, 1933 as the 8th Transportation Squadron and was activated Feb. 1, 1940. The squadron became the 8th Airlift Squadron in 1991.

"It was great being able to talk to airlift pilots and loadmasters before us and keeping in touch with the past," said McDonald. "Aircraft and equipment may change over time, but some things like our mission never change."