Photo By Pfc. Santiago Meadows | A group of U.S. Army horizontal engineers with the Kentucky Army National Guard’s...... read more read more
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HAZARD, Ky. - Soldiers with the Kentucky Army National Guard’s 207th Engineer Company completed several engineering projects across the Commonwealth May 17-20, 2026, demonstrating the professionalism, technical skill, and teamwork of both the unit’s horizontal and vertical engineers. Horizontal engineers focus on terrain and surface construction, while vertical engineers specialize in building structures. Working together and utilizing a wide range of tools and equipment, the Soldiers successfully completed multiple projects throughout the training period.
One major project was constructing a drainage system at the Hazard armory to prevent excess water from flowing into the motor pool, while resurfacing the motor pool with new gravel.
“We’re going to use our various pieces of engineering equipment such as rollers, graders, handheld tools, shovels and axes to get the job done,” said Sgt. 1st Class Eric Salley, the technical officer in charge of the projects. “We will also use our different excavators, like the Hydraulic Excavator, or HYEX.”
Some of the engineers used loaders to transport materials while the others used hand tools, including shovels and pickaxes, to excavate and construct the drainage system. The team then worked together to install and complete the drainage system.
At the same time, the unit’s vertical engineers constructed a Vertical Construction Booth, which will support future training projects such as electrical panel installation and plumbing work. Using tools including hammers, circular saws, and crowbars, the Soldiers carefully measured, cut, and assembled plywood and lumber. Teamwork played a key role throughout the process as Soldiers coordinated to build each wall section and raise them into place.
“Anytime we can create a project like this, the unit is going to benefit from it,” said Capt. Zach Koenig, the commander of the 207th. “Not only is this booth an example of what we are capable of, it is also going to serve a future purpose helping our electricians and plumbers sharpen their skills.”
The projects also presented real challenges. During operations, a grader required an unexpected wheel replacement. Engineers adapted quickly, using available equipment and teamwork to complete the repair and continue the mission.
These hands-on projects provided valuable experience for junior Soldiers while reinforcing leadership and project management skills throughout the company.
“Soldiers are getting good experience on the equipment,” said Sgt. Shane Wilson. “It does take a lot of experience to run a project of this size with a lot of moving components. A lot of younger guys get to learn more on the job, so in the future they can lead their own projects with their own troops.”
Training opportunities like these allow engineers to develop practical skills that apply both in the field and on future construction missions. This then allows the next project to go by smoother with the work experience gained from the prior projects completed. Through the multiple projects the unit’s ability to adapt, solve problems, and accomplish complex tasks through teamwork and professionalism was on full display.
| Date Taken: | 05.19.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 05.27.2026 14:19 |
| Story ID: | 565777 |
| Location: | HAZARD, KENTUCKY, US |
| Web Views: | 11 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Engineers strengthen readiness and adaptability through multiple projects, by PFC Santiago Meadows, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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