Photo By Tech. Sgt. Abbey Rotter | Staff Sgt. Casey Hupp, 114th Civil Engineer Squadron heavy equipment operator, works to remove hanging limbs to ensure easy pass through during future Santee Sioux powwows. The 114th civil engineers worked on the Santee Sioux tribal grounds in Flandreau, S.D. June 13. The project is part of Golden Coyote FOB Joe Foss happening on Joe Foss Field, Sioux Falls, S.D. The 114th Civil Engineering Squadron responed to a a request submitted by the tribe through the Innovative Readiness Training application process. see less
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This project benefitted the local community through multiple improvements to the grounds. Teamwork between the Danish Soldiers and American Airmen was critical to the success of the mission.
“It is valuable training to learn different cultures in the work environment,” said Cpl. Jan Bjerregaard, an electrician with the Danish Army. “It helps when we deploy together.”
American and Danish forces received training on how to operate heavy equipment used for the project.
The improvements to the powwow area included clearing branches, trimming tree limbs, removing tree stumps and repainted stripes in a parking area to increase safety.
“Tree limbs were blocking lights and damaging camper’s air conditioning units.” said Senior Master Sgt. Jim Volden, chief enlisted manager, 114th CES.
Restrooms at the powwow grounds had been damaged from this winter’s freezing weather, plumbing leaks were fixed to prevent further damage.
“We have the equipment and manpower to help improve the grounds and are thankful for the training opportunity,” said Volden.
The powwow ground project symbolizes the cooperative relationship between American Airmen and Danish Soldiers. The improved grounds will be used by the Native American community for years to come.
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