West Coast Airmen Support Superstorm Sandy Relief Efforts

62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash., Nov. 1, 2012 – A C-17 Globemaster III assigned to the 62nd Airlift Wing departed here early this morning in support of Superstorm Sandy response operations and a second C-17 is expected to depart today at approximately 9 p.m. PST. Along with aircraft and crews from 12 active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve bases across the nation, McChord Field airmen are flying to March Air Reserve Base, Calif., to pick up technicians, equipment and supplies to support relief efforts on the East Coast. “McChord airmen are ready to answer our nation’s call with the most capable combat airlift aircraft,” said Col. Jeffrey Philippart, 62nd Airlift Wing vice commander. “Our C-17s and airmen have the ability to deliver rapid global mobility, which enables us to respond quickly to disasters and provide aide in the wake of humanitarian crises. We’re poised to respond.” The passengers and cargo, including 69 vehicles belonging to the Southern California Edison utility company, are en route to arrive at Stewart Air National Guard Base, Newburgh, N.Y., after which they will support efforts to restore power and provide humanitarian assistance to the stricken region.