Collaboration and Improvisation: Airmen and Marines Enhance Quality of Life at Kandahar Airfield

Strategic Insights -

Airmen and Marines from the 777th Expeditionary Prime BEEF Squadron and the 232nd Marine Fighter Attack Squadron worked together to build sun shades for an F/A-18 Hornet squadron at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan. The collaboration aimed to improve the quality of life for the Marines working on the aircraft, as temperatures can reach as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit. The sun shades have been shown to reduce temperatures by 30 degrees, making it easier for the Marines to work on the jets.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 777th Expeditionary Prime BEEF Squadron and the 232nd Marine Fighter Attack Squadron collaborated to build 10 sun shades for the F/A-18 Hornet squadron at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan.
  • The sun shades are expected to be completed in November and will enhance the quality of life for the Marines working on the aircraft.
  • A survey showed that temperatures under the sun shades are 30 degrees cooler, making it easier for the Marines to work on the jets.
  • The sun shades will also increase mission effectiveness by providing a cooler working environment.
  • The Prime BEEF squadron, which handles smaller-scale construction projects, is one of three units in the country and is based at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan.
  • The collaboration between Airmen and Marines shows the importance of teamwork and improvisation in achieving a common goal.
  • Staff Sgt. Daniel Wissmann, a 777th EPBS structural journeyman, stated that the collaboration works out great because the Marines are hard workers and are able to work together efficiently.
  • Cpl. Cody Deppen, a 232nd VMFA structural and hydraulics mechanic, said that he enjoys working with the Airmen and it's a good change of pace from the day-to-day work.

Statistics:

  • Temperatures under the sun shades are 30 degrees cooler than the surrounding environment.
  • The sun shades will take about a day-and-a-half to complete, with an additional week to pour the concrete blocks and allow them to cure.
  • The Prime BEEF squadron is building 10 sun shades for the F/A-18 Hornet squadron.
  • The sun shades will enhance the quality of life for the Marines working on the aircraft and increase mission effectiveness.

Sources:

  • Senior Airman Melissa B. White, 451st Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
  • The U.S. Air Force
  • Airmen and Marines working on the project