About this Unit
The **819th RED HORSE Squadron** (Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers) was first activated in 1966 at Forbes Air Force Base, Kansas, as part of the United States Air Force’s response to rapid construction needs during the Vietnam War. The unit quickly deployed to Southeast Asia, where it played a critical role building airfields, roads, and infrastructure under combat conditions. Over the decades, the 819th has been repeatedly called upon for both combat and humanitarian missions around the world, including operations in the Middle East and disaster relief efforts. Today, the squadron is based at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, continuing its legacy of rapid engineering support for U.S. military operations globally.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 819th RED HORSE Squadron (Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers) was originally activated in 1966 at Forbes Air Force Base, Kansas, during the Vietnam War era.
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Vietnam War Contributions: The unit deployed to Phù Cát Air Base, South Vietnam, where it played a crucial role in building and maintaining airfields under combat conditions.
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Unique Engineering Unit: RED HORSE Squadrons are unique to the U.S. Air Force, designed to provide self-sustaining, rapid-response heavy construction capabilities anywhere in the world.
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Nickname: The acronym "RED HORSE" stands for "Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers," and members are often simply called "Red Horse."
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Global Deployments: The 819th has deployed to locations all over the world, including the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, in support of operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom.
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Natural Disaster Response: The squadron has also responded to natural disasters, providing critical infrastructure repair and humanitarian assistance after events like Hurricane Katrina and earthquakes in Haiti.
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Reactivation: After being inactivated in 1970, the 819th was reactivated in 1997 at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, to support the Air Force’s evolving mission needs.
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Self-Sufficiency: The 819th is capable of rapid deployment and can operate independently for extended periods, bringing its own vehicles, equipment, power, and even food and water supplies.
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Distinctive Red Hats: RED HORSE members are recognized by their distinctive red hats and scarves, a tradition that symbolizes their unique identity and esprit de corps.
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Decorations and Honors: The 819th RED HORSE Squadron has received numerous awards for outstanding service, including Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards and recognition for excellence in engineering and construction.
