McChord Field's C-17s have returned.

Since the work began in March, the base's 10,100-foot runway has undergone a number of much needed improvements. 

Its reopening was marked by a C-17 touching down at 10 a.m. this past Tuesday. Seventeen more aircraft landed throughout the day, bringing airmen and equipment back to McChord.

"This is the world's greatest airlift team, and they have crushed the mission while being stationed away from home," said Col. Scovill Currin, 62nd Airlift Wing commander. 

The new runway was completed within its projected time.

While runway repairs were underway, McChord airmen and aircraft continued operations from March Air Force Reserve Base, California; Travis Air Force Base, California; and Fairchild Air Force Base, Spokane.

Some of the airmen and aircraft which had been assigned to these bases returned to Gray Army Airfield prior to the runway's reopening.

"I am thrilled to have all these airmen and C-17s back where they belong, and I know they will continue to provide the best airlift support in the Air Force."

McChord is also home to the 62nd's Reserve partner, the 446th Airlift Wing. Both wings' primary mission is global strategic airlift. The base is home to 50 C-17 Globemaster IIIs.

Gray Army Airfield also served as a staging point for five of the aircraft, which were utilized for shuttle operations and local training missions.

"It has been a busy last few weeks coordinating the return of our airmen and aircraft back to McChord," added Col. Mark Fuhrmann, 62nd Operations Group commander.

"There are a lot of moving parts, but our airmen have executed this mission with efficiency, and we are all excited to be working out of one airfield once more."