KUNSAN AIR BASE, South Korea – Ten engineers from the Guam Air National Guard’s 254th RED HORSE Squadron recently wrapped up a critical two-week training deployment in South Korea, bringing a surge of manpower and expertise to Kunsan Air Base while sharpening their own real-world readiness.
The specialized team, deployed May 26-June 4, included experts across multiple trades, including electrical work, structural engineering, plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning, or HVAC. By integrating seamlessly with the active-component 8th Civil Engineer Squadron on base, the Guam-based Airmen immediately tackled a backlog of vital maintenance and construction projects.
One of the team's major accomplishments was accelerating the renovation of a "C-HUT"—a semi-permanent wooden structure used by the military as a multi-purpose facility.
Their hands-on construction and rapid maintenance work cleared out work orders and directly improved the base's daily operations. By reinforcing Kunsan's infrastructure, the Airmen helped ensure the base remains resilient and ready to respond to emergencies and operational requirements in the region.
For the Guam Airmen, the trip was more than just a work detail – it was a crucible for practicing their trades in a forward-deployed environment. Working under different logistical challenges than they face at their home station allowed the team to refine the critical, rapid-response skills they would need during a real-world crisis.
The experience left a strong impression on the deployed team.
“We got the job done by utilizing teamwork, safe work ethics and most importantly, keeping our morale high,” said Airman 1st Class Romi Mendiola, reflecting on the deployment. “Every Airman was assigned a task and created a rhythm that made it possible to complete our objectives. When you see your whole team working just as hard as you, it sustains your hunger to accomplish the overall mission.”
Ultimately, the deployment showcased the vital role the Air National Guard plays in supporting active-component missions across the Indo-Pacific theater. By supporting Kunsan Air Base and honing their own engineering capabilities, the 254th RED HORSE Squadron returns to Guam as a highly capable and ready force, prepared for whatever mission comes next.