Raymond Mason

The 556th RED HORSE Squadron (Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers) is a specialized United States Air Force civil engineering unit. Activated during the Vietnam War in 1966, the squadron was initially stationed at Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, where it provided rapid construction, repair, and maintenance of airfields and facilities under combat conditions. The 556th distinguished itself by swiftly building critical infrastructure in austere environments, often under enemy fire. After its Vietnam service, the unit was inactivated in 1972, but its legacy continues through other active RED HORSE units that uphold its tradition of engineering excellence in support of Air Force missions worldwide.