SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Six members of the 114th Civil Engineering Squadron of the South Dakota Air National Guard have been mobilized for deployment to Haiti.
The Airmen will join expeditionary task forces composed of civil engineers from several Air National Guard units. The initial duration of their service may be up to 120 days.
While deployed they will provide critical construction skills to assist in the earthquake recovery efforts in support of Operation Unified Response. The departure dates for these Airmen from Sioux Falls will be staggered.
The first contingent of two Airmen flew to Charleston AFB, S.C., Jan. 28 to integrate with a larger group from the Tennessee Air National Guard.
"A recent survey of our members produced nearly 200 volunteers from the South Dakota Air National Guard willing to deploy to Haiti on short notice," said Colonel Russ Walz, commander of the 114th Fighter Wing. "We are extremely proud of the leadership and talent that these first responders will provide in the initial efforts of what will be a long-term recovery process."