U.S. Air Force members of the 366th Civil Engineer Squadron board a C-17 Globemaster bound for Fort Hamilton Army Post, N.Y., Nov. 3, 2012, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho.

U.S. Air Force members of the 366th Civil Engineer Squadron board a C-17 Globemaster bound for Fort Hamilton Army Post, N.Y., Nov. 3, 2012, at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. A team of 12 well-qualified engineers and base equipment departed MHAFB to assist with cleanup efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Shane M. Phipps)

CE Airmen deploy in support of Sandy relief

Published Nov. 7, 2012
By Airman 1st Class Shane M. Phipps
366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Airmen from the 366th Civil Engineer Squadron recently found themselves boarding a C-17 Globemaster bound for Fort Hamilton Army Post, N.Y.

Under a setting sun Nov. 3, a team of 12 well-qualified engineers and base equipment departed MHAFB to assist with cleanup efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

"I could not be more proud of our Airmen from the 366th CES," said Col. Steven Griswold, 366th Mission Support Group commander. "This very short-notice deployment to the East Coast of the United States shows that not only are our 366th Fighter Wing Gunfighters always ready to deploy into harm's way around the world but, when tasked, they are equally ready to deploy across the United States to meet our nation's call and support our fellow citizens. We wish them safe travels, mission success and a speedy return."

Master Sgt. Steven Rector, 366th CES unit deployment manager, is excited to have an opportunity to lead his troops through such a significant humanitarian mission.

"This is a great opportunity to help out those in need," said Rector. "My team is excited to arrive and begin helping with the relief efforts."

Due to the devastation left by the hurricane, the members of the team understand how vital their support will be to those affected.

"It is a great honor to be involved in a humanitarian effort of this magnitude," said Staff Sgt. Brandon Hartline, CES water-fuels systems and maintenance craftsman. "I look forward to providing a helping hand."