U.S. and RCAF civil engineers improve lives in Cambodia

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Christopher Boitz
  • Pacific Angel 11-1 Public Affairs
KOH KONG, Cambodia (AFNS) --  When patients couldn't get care from the clinic here due to a washed-out road, the U.S. and Cambodian militaries partnered together to give back to the community.

A team of Airmen and Soldier civil engineers who deployed here in support of Pacific Angel Cambodia 11-1, and Royal Cambodian Armed Forces engineers rolled up their sleeves and got to work digging trenches, building culverts and resurfacing a road to create an accessible path to the clinic.

"This road was a major problem for the local community," said Staff Sgt. Clif Ewing, a heavy equipment operator assigned to the 124th Civil Engineer Squadron from Boise, Idaho. "Patients avoided the clinic because the road was inaccessible ... now they can utilize the facility."

The U.S. and RCAF mixed western and eastern techniques and capabilities, crafting a hybrid dam, improving water flow through the area and keeping the road above flood levels.

"There was a small communication gap between us, but once we began working, everything started clicking," Ewing said. "We have different ways of accomplishing things, but we've put our ideas together and it works.  It's a lot of fun."

"Throughout construction we became a team," he added. "Their expertise is what got this project to where it is now."

Upgrading the road was only one piece of the project.  The clinic received new floor tiles, electrical and water improvements, new shelving for storage and a fresh coat of paint.

"The quality of work the U.S. and Cambodia did together on this project is very strong," said Lt. Yun Sawat, an engineer in the RCAF. "It will last a long time and I'm very happy to see the outcome."

The project gave the service members from both countries an opportunity to share experiences and skills, improving relationships and building a common bond.

"It's been awesome working with the RCAF," Ewing said.  "They're great people and very friendly.  There is a lot of respect between everyone out here. No one is afraid to ask for help or to pick up a shovel."

Operation Pacific Angel Cambodia 11-1, is a combined partnership between U.S. and Cambodian military and civilian personnel providing medical, dental, optometry and engineer programs to local Cambodians including airfield operations subject-matter expert exchanges.

The operation is scheduled to conclude Aug. 12.