Virginia Guard Engineers Enhance Readiness in Portugal

LAJES FIELD, Portugal - Airmen with the 203rd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers, 192nd Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, trained at Lajes Field, Terceira Island, Azores, Portugal, July 14-26.

Renowned for its ability to deploy into austere environments and construct vital infrastructure, the 203rd RED HORSE completed renovation and reconstruction projects during the deployment for training.

As a self-sustaining unit, the 203rd RED HORSE specializes in constructing vertical and horizontal infrastructure, utilities and transportation facilities. Their elite skills enable them to act as a sustainment force capable of repairing and improving base facilities wherever they deploy. During this DFT, the team focused on refurbishing facilities' components, improving working conditions at Lajes Field.

Airmen with the 203rd RED HORSE renovated and repaired more than 25 windows throughout a 30,000-square-foot facility, constructed a critical separation wall for an industrial shop, repaired and finished over 13,000 square feet of office space, and completed more than 52 work orders with the Lajes Field civil engineers.

"Our team faced a variety of logistical challenges during this deployment, but we adapted and overcame them by shifting priorities," said Maj. Oscar Alonso, 203rd RED HORSE director of operations. "This was a valuable opportunity for our team to experience real-world challenges associated with infrastructure repair and construction operations, and I'm proud of how we performed."

The DFT was not just about completing the mission - it also provided the Airmen with training in multiple new disciplines. They embraced the U.S. Air Force's Multi-Capable Airman concept with personnel from different Air Force specialty codes taking on tasks outside their usual scope and completing more than 1,000 training hours in cross-functional areas. Communications specialists were involved in sheet metal work and repairs, while personnel specialists participated in painting and coating operations.

Their cross-functional efforts exemplified the adaptability and teamwork of the 203rd RED HORSE.

"Our ability to perform at a high level under these conditions demonstrates the strength and versatility of our unit," said Alonso. "The training and experience we gained here will be invaluable as we continue to support the Air Force's global mission."