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Airlift squadron's inactivation 'bittersweet'

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Sean Tobin
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
For the fifth time in its 76-year history, the 10th Airlift Squadron at McChord Field was inactivated during a ceremony at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, May 6, 2016. 

The squadron was most recently reactivated at McChord Field back in 2003.

This inactivation was due, in part, to a provision of the President's 2015 Budget, which also called for Air Mobility Command to convert 16 of its C-17 Globemaster III aircraft from primary aircraft inventory to backup aircraft inventory status. This conversion included eight aircraft from McChord and eight from the 437th Airlift Wing at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina.

"Today is bittersweet," said Lt. Col. Nathan Campbell, the former 10th AS commander. "While there is some sadness as we bring to close another rich chapter in the history of the 10th Airlift Squadron, it brings me great happiness and pride to reflect on the feats of the incredible men and women of the 10th."

In its nearly 13 years based at McChord, the 10th AS was home to the "Pathfinders" and took part in missions all over the world, including Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Freedom's Sentinel and Operation Inherent Resolve. 

Additionally, the unit helped provide aid during global humanitarian crises and participated in Operation Deep Freeze, working with the National Science Foundation and the United States Antarctic Program.

During the ceremony, Col. David Owens, 62nd Operations Group commander, said the unit has built a legacy of airlift that no other country and very few organizations can compare to. He then reminded those in attendance that although the unit has inactivated a number of times before, the Pathfinders have always returned.

"My guess is that someday the Air Force will see fit to once again unfurl the flag and reactivate this fantastic squadron," said Owens. "One thing I am certain of is, no matter when it happens, the Airmen of the 10th Airlift Squadron will once again be ready to lead the way."