'Prime Beef craftmanship and dedication'

Photo By Chief Petty Officer Jared Young | Col. John Allen, commander of the 577th EPBG and airmen from 777th EPBS group photo aboard one of their many mission requirements throughout the theatre. They are currently deployed to Afghanistan executing general engineering, infrastructure construction and project management under direction of Task Force Forager in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.  

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, AFGHANISTAN

11.16.2011

Story by Chief Petty Officer Jared Young 

30th Naval Construction Regiment

By William Kettle
Thirteenth Naval Construction Regiment

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan - Recently the Engineers of Task Force Forager constructed over 7000 square feet of office space in support of coalition forces operating in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. In a challenging environment, 15 airmen of the U.S. Air Force’s 777th Expeditionary Prime Beef Squadron used their master craftsmanship skills to provide much needed additional office space. The new spaces will greatly aid coalition forces in the neutralization of insurgent forces and provide improved governance and stability for the people of Kandahar province, Afghanistan.

Junior airmen mentored closely by Master Sgt. Daniel Martin from Joint Base Charleston, S.C., rapidly built the two large wooden structures and installed all the electrical and mechanical systems required for each building. The men of this U.S. Air Force Civil Engineering Prime Beef Team continued to hone their skills and master their trades during this project. All the airmen maintained their morale and professionalism in spite of the long working hours at a very remote location.

Local Afghans regularly observing the construction were fascinated by the large structures and the speed at which they were assembled. In a community outreach gesture the airmen provided any remaining scrap lumber to local Afghans who used the scrap wood for heating and cooking. This effort greatly helped several Afghan families with winter needs as firewood is not readily available and very expensive throughout Afghanistan. This simple gesture strengthens bonds with the Afghan people and allows for the one on one communication which helps build the relationships that are critical in a counter insurgency environment.

The superb efforts, craftsmanship and dedicated service of the airmen of 777th EPBS to the United States, coalition forces, and the people of Afghanistan are in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Air Force and will have a lasting positive effect for the residents of Kandahar province.

• Date Taken: 11.16.2011
• Date Posted: 11.20.2011 12:53
• Story ID: 80298
• Location: KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, AF