SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Members of the Iowa National Guard's 132d Wing helped the Puerto Rico Air National Guard (PRANG) transition from an airlift wing to a contingency response and combat communications wing in San Juan Aug. 14-28.
Members from multiple squadrons of the 132d Wing and the 156th Wing worked together to reach 100% readiness while navigating the unknowns of working in a COVID-19 environment.
The 132d Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) assisted the 156th Wing's vehicle maintenance unit in getting their vehicle in-commission rate up from 70% and upgrading training for members of their own squadron. LRS also helped the PRANG take inventory of their Disaster Relief Beddown Systems (DRBS) in preparation for their contingency response mission. The DRBS is a system of 150 tents and kitchens to enable a quicker response during natural disasters.
The 132d Civil Engineering Squadron (CES) Power Pro assisted the 156th Wing in their conversion by repairing eight of 12 generators and training members who are being re-missioned. CES Emergency Management also helped the PRANG complete annual training for almost 100 people for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defense to reach proficiency.
"I think it's absolutely amazing that we get this opportunity to help a fellow unit out," said Tech Sgt. Charles Dick, CES Power Pro.
The members of the CES Fire Department worked with the 156th Wing's fire department to assess risk at 53 buildings across the base, checking fire alarm and sprinkler systems, structure type, occupancy, and any hazardous materials. All of these things are important for firefighters to consider before entering a building.
"It's been a great partnership," said Staff Sgt. Benjamin Cox, CES firefighter. "We're hoping to build a relationship that'll last."