🇺🇸 Gray Army Air Field

Gray Army Air Field (KGRF (GRF)) is a military airfield situated within Joint Base Lewis–McChord (formerly Fort Lewis) near Tacoma, Washington, United States. It is operated by the U.S. Army.

Type of Facility and Operations: Gray Army Air Field primarily supports Army aviation assets, including helicopters, observation planes, and other support aircraft. The airfield is also involved in high-altitude search-and-rescue operations. Transient aircraft require 72 hours prior permission, and there are restrictions on weekend and holiday arrivals.

Notable Features or History: The airfield, initially known as "Fort Lewis Field," was established in 1921. It was renamed Gray Army Airfield on April 12, 1938, in honor of Captain Hawthorne C. Gray, a pioneer in stratospheric balloon flights who died in 1927 due to oxygen deprivation during a flight. Historically, it has hosted observation and balloon squadrons, and during World War II, it was used for patrol planes and anti-submarine patrols, receiving significant funding for expansion during this period. The airfield has a single asphalt runway, designated 15/33, measuring 6,125 by 150 feet (1,867 x 46 m).

Current Status: Gray Army Air Field is currently operational and continues to be part of Joint Base Lewis–McChord. The control tower and base operations generally operate Monday through Friday, with closures on weekends and holidays. Fuel services are available, but transient aircraft operations are subject to specific scheduling requirements. The airfield is primarily utilized for military aviation and offers limited to no Space-Available (Space-A) passenger opportunities.