About this Unit
The 201st RED HORSE Squadron is a specialized civil engineering unit of the United States Air Force, part of the Air National Guard. Established in 1985 and based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, the squadron provides rapid response capabilities for heavy construction and repair in support of both peacetime and wartime operations. Over the years, the 201st has deployed personnel and equipment across the Pacific and globally, supporting humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and contingency operations. Renowned for their expertise and adaptability, the unit plays a vital role in enhancing the Air Force's operational infrastructure and readiness.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 201st RED HORSE Squadron (Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers) is part of the Hawaii Air National Guard, based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.
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Established in 1967: The squadron was activated in 1967, making it one of the earlier RED HORSE units created to provide the Air Force with a rapid deployment engineering capability.
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Pacific Focus: The 201st is unique among RED HORSE units for its primary focus on operations within the Pacific theater, supporting U.S. interests across vast ocean distances.
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Hurricane Iniki Response: In 1992, the squadron played a key role in disaster relief following Hurricane Iniki, the most powerful hurricane to strike Hawaii in recorded history.
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Deployed Worldwide: Members of the 201st have deployed to locations including Iraq, Afghanistan, the Philippines, and throughout the Pacific, supporting both combat and humanitarian missions.
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Humanitarian Missions: The 201st frequently participates in humanitarian missions, building schools, clinics, and infrastructure in remote Pacific islands and Southeast Asia.
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Heavy Engineering Capability: The unit is equipped with specialized construction vehicles and equipment, enabling them to build airfields, roads, and facilities in austere environments.
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Support for Operation Enduring Freedom: The squadron has been deployed multiple times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, providing critical engineering and construction support for U.S. and coalition forces.
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Awards and Recognition: The 201st has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its excellence and effectiveness in both peacetime and combat operations.
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RED HORSE Heritage: RED HORSE squadrons, including the 201st, are known for their distinctive red baseball caps, a tradition that helps foster unit pride and esprit de corps.
