48th CES gives abandoned hangar new life

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Connor Estes
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  On the north side of the RAF Lakenheath airfield a hangar stood abandoned until the 48th Civil Engineering Squadron saw an opportunity.

Recently, the "Dirt Boys" took on a project to convert the hangar into a storage facility to protect assets vital to their mission.

By converting the hangar into a storage facility, equipment is now kept out of the elements reducing damage and wear caused by the weather. This also allows for a centralized location for their materials used in construction projects saving time and making it more efficient.

"Some of the equipment items are for special purpose use and may not get used during some months of the year," said Master Sgt. Daniel Craig, 48 CES NCO in charge of heavy equipment. "Having them stored indoors prevents the hydraulic lines from dry- rotting from excessive exposure to UV rays which in turn saves us thousands of dollars in maintenance and repair costs."

Craig added this will also prolong battery life by keeping the equipment somewhat sheltered from extreme cold temperatures, which will save man hours for maintenance personnel responding to dead battery calls as well as making sure equipment will more likely start during emergency situations.

"Moving these items has also removed hundreds of potential airfield obstructions," said Staff Sgt. John Picard, 48 CES pavement and construction equipment journeyman.

According to Picard moving all of the construction equipment and building materials to the hangar and moving the remaining barriers across the flightline has created a greater safe zone for aircraft. With no dangerous obstructions in place, the aircraft will incur far less damage in the event of an accident meaning greater safety for the aircrew themselves.

Even though Picard was coined by wing commander Col. John Quintas for his efforts in the project he wanted to ensure others recognize the "Dirt Boys" crew.

"The biggest thing that I can't stress enough is that this was a team effort," said Picard. "The NCO's and Airmen in the shop came together, took all things into consideration and formed a plan that would work best for our shop."