JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- Members from the 624th Civil Engineer Squadron spent six months with the 374th Civil Engineer Squadron at Yokota Air Base, Japan during an Innovative Augmentation program.
Eight Airmen provided vital support for major construction projects at Yokota AB such as facility renovation, road paving, vertical structure erection and apron construction. Their efforts saved the Air Force over $7M in contractor fees while boosting the reputations of both the 624th Regional Support Group and 624th Civil Engineer Squadron within PACAF.
“The time spent at Yokota Air Base was truly life changing. The work done on base was challenging and rewarding, but the time spent immersed in the Japanese culture will always be the most memorable,” said Senior Airman Angie Yoshizu-Rezentes, 624th CES, structural journeyman.
The Reserve Citizen Airmen trained active-duty airmen in carpentry, drop ceiling, flooring and ceramic tile installation. Additionally, they taught emergency management airmen on how to hang sheetrock, apply joint compound and work side by side with National Guard and other reserve RED HORSE and Prime BEEF units.
The entire experience at Yokota Air Base was unforgettable and truly valuable. Not only did we get to work with and train the 374th CES, we also got to see some of the beautiful landmarks of Japan,” said Master Sgt. Gainey, 624th CES, structural noncommissioned officer in charge. “We experienced a different culture for six months, worked through obstacles to get our job done and forged friendships along the way. I am completely grateful to be given this opportunity and I'm proud of what our team accomplished.”
The 624th CES at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, is comprised of multiple Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force and Firefighting teams ready to support rapid worldwide deployments to construct and maintain airfield and facilities, provide firefighting support, and coordinate planning for any real world disasters. Their peacetime mission is to train and equip personnel for rapid deployment worldwide and to meet all contingency requirements to include Prime BEEF responsibilities.