Civil engineers build tent city in Southwest Asia

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SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) --  From hammers to bulldozers, from planning to construction along with muscles and sweat, the 379th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron’s tent city project is under way and near completion. 

The planning for the tent city expansion program began in September. About 28 tents are being constructed to provide billeting for 1,300 people.
 
“We’ve finished construction on the first site and we’re putting up tents on the second site at about three per day,” said Senior Master Sgt. Chester Kiefhaber, tent city project manager. 

The squadron's men and women, along with other base volunteers, share the dust, heat and commitment to make it happen. The heavy equipment operators and the men and women of structures, electrical and air conditioning work to stay ahead of the deadline.
 
“Working outside is a challenge during the heat of the day,” said Senior Airman Jeremy Rose, a member of the structures shelter crew team. “But seeing the finished project makes it all worthwhile.” 

Several phases go into the construction of the California medium shelters that will house the Airmen arriving here in January. 

First comes the survey phase. The shelter site areas are measured and staked out for shelter placement with the use of the Global Positioning System satellite technology. Then trenches are dug and electrical lines are installed. Dirt and gravel are hauled in to raise the site for even elevation and to provide water drainage that prevents flooding. 

Shelter placement is then staked out and the webbing (frame) is put together and installed. The shelter covers and ends are installed and then plywood floors are added. The electrical service and air conditioning is installed last.

More than 25 people are working on the site at one time, many times missing lunch in order to complete the project.

“We take pride in what we do,” said Staff Sgt. Bobbi Workman, a structures craftsman and team leader. “Everyone brings enthusiasm to the table as well as experience.”