McChord AFB, WA

McChord Air Force Base, located in Washington State, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally named McChord Field, it was established as a military airfield in 1930.

The base is named after Colonel William Caldwell McChord, who played a significant role in early military aviation. McChord Field was initially established as a temporary installation, primarily serving as a landing area for military aircraft. It was a popular refueling stop for military planes traveling along the West Coast.

During World War II, McChord Field played a crucial role in the defense of the Pacific Northwest. It served as a training base for Army Air Corps pilots and also supported the war effort by providing vital logistics and supply operations. Its location near the coast made it an essential installation for the defense of the United States.

After the war, McChord Field underwent significant expansion and improvement. In 1947, it became part of the newly formed United States Air Force. In the following decades, the base served as a strategic location for both military operations and humanitarian missions.

During the Cold War, McChord Air Force Base was an important base for transporting troops and supplies to and from Asia. It was involved in numerous military operations, including the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The base also became home to the Military Airlift Command, responsible for airlifting troops and supplies worldwide.

In 2010, McChord Air Force Base merged with nearby Fort Lewis, creating Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM). This joint base is now one of the largest military installations on the West Coast of the United States. It houses units from the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.

Today, McChord Air Force Base continues to play a crucial role in military operations. It serves as a hub for air mobility, providing strategic airlift and aerial refueling capabilities. The base is home to several squadrons of C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, which are used for both military and humanitarian missions.

Additionally, McChord AFB is an active participant in community outreach programs and supports local communities through various initiatives. It hosts events, offers support to military families, and engages in partnerships with neighboring organizations.

Overall, McChord Air Force Base has a storied history as a key military installation. It has played a vital role in national defense, provided support during times of conflict, and continues to be a vital component of the United States military's operations.

Point Defiance Park

A large urban park with beaches, gardens, hiking trails, a zoo, and a waterfront promenade.

Museum of Glass

Located in nearby Tacoma, this museum showcases contemporary glass art and offers live glassblowing demonstrations.

Washington State History Museum

Located in downtown Tacoma, this museum explores the history of Washington state through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Tacoma Art Museum

A museum featuring a wide range of contemporary and historical art, including works by regional and national artists.

Fort Nisqually Living History Museum

A reconstructed 19th-century fur trading post where visitors can observe costumed interpreters and learn about the area's history.

Tacoma Dome

A large multipurpose arena that hosts concerts, sporting events, and other live performances.

LeMay America's Car Museum

Located in Tacoma, this museum showcases antique and classic cars from different eras and offers interactive exhibits.

Mount Rainier National Park

A breathtaking national park with numerous hiking trails, picturesque landscapes, and the iconic Mount Rainier itself.

Northwest Trek Wildlife Park

Located in Eatonville, this wildlife park allows visitors to observe native North American animals in their natural habitat.

Farmers Markets

The McChord area has several farmers markets where you can find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local foods while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere.

McChord Air Force Base, located in Washington state, experiences a marine west coast climate. This climate is characterized by cool, damp, and mild winters, as well as mild and relatively dry summers.

Winters at McChord AFB are typically cool and wet, with temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (1 to 7 degrees Celsius). The region receives a fair amount of rainfall, with winter months seeing the highest precipitation levels. Snowfall is relatively common but usually light, with average accumulation around 5 inches (12 cm) per year.

Summers at McChord AFB are mild and relatively dry compared to other parts of the country. Average temperatures range from the mid-60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 18-24 degrees Celsius). Rainfall decreases during the summer months, but occasional light showers are still possible.

Overall, McChord AFB experiences relatively moderate and comfortable temperatures throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the weather in this region can change quickly, and localized climate variations can occur due to the nearby presence of mountains and bodies of water.

McChord Air Force Base is located in Pierce County, Washington. While the base itself does not have distinct neighborhoods, there are several nearby communities that military personnel and their families often live in. Here are some of the neighborhoods near McChord AFB:

Lakewood

Lakewood is located just south of McChord AFB and is a popular choice for military families. It offers a variety of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Lakewood has a mix of residential areas, commercial districts, and recreational amenities.

University Place

University Place is another nearby community popular among military families. It is located west of McChord AFB and offers a range of housing options, from apartments to larger homes. University Place has a charming suburban feel and is known for its parks, golf courses, and proximity to the waterfront.

Tacoma

Tacoma is the third-largest city in Washington state and offers various neighborhoods that military personnel may consider. The city has diverse housing options, including apartments, condos, and historic homes. Downtown Tacoma offers a vibrant arts and culture scene, shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Puyallup

Located southeast of McChord AFB, Puyallup is a popular suburban community. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and townhomes. Puyallup is known for its charming downtown area, beautiful parks, and the iconic Washington State Fairgrounds.

Spanaway

Spanaway is located east of McChord AFB and provides more affordable housing options for military families. It offers a variety of single-family homes and townhomes. Spanaway is a growing community with shopping centers, parks, and recreational opportunities.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods near McChord AFB. Each community has its own unique character, amenities, and proximity to the base. It's essential to research and visit different areas to find the one that best suits your preferences and needs.