203rd RED HORSE marks 40 years of excellence

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Michelle Y. Alvarez
  • 192nd Wing

The 203rd Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers of the 192nd Wing, Virginia Air National Guard, celebrated its 40th anniversary Jan. 12, 2025, at the State Military Reservation in Virginia Beach, Virginia, marking a legacy of unparalleled service and dedication.

As one of only a few RED HORSE units in the U.S. Air Force, the 203rd RED HORSE has consistently delivered rapid, deployable engineering capabilities to meet critical mission needs worldwide.

Since its establishment in 1985, the 203rd RED HORSE has become one of Virginia's most distinguished military units. The squadron's primary mission is to construct or repair damaged military air bases and facilities. Its members, many of whom serve as part-time citizen Airmen in the VaANG, embody the principles of resilience, innovation and excellence.

The two-hour celebration began with a moment of silence, led by Senior Master Sgt. Steven Bond, the event emcee and 203rd RED HORSE operations superintendent. This moment honored the 18 Airmen of the 203rd RED HORSE and three Soldiers from the Florida Army National Guard's Detachment 1, 171st Aviation Battalion, who tragically lost their lives when their C-23 Sherpa aircraft crashed in a cotton field near Unadilla, Georgia, March 3, 2001. This incident marked the worst loss of life in the Virginia National Guard since World War II.

Following the tribute, Bond posed a thought-provoking question to the audience: "What does it mean to be part of a team dedicated to something bigger than ourselves?"

The event featured several guest speakers who shared personal stories and reflections on what it means to be part of the RED HORSE, both in the past and today. Among the speakers was the squadron's first commander, retired Col. William Prosise. Current leaders, including Col. Brock E. Lange, 192nd Wing commander, and Lt. Col. Eddie Abisaab, 203rd RED HORSE commander, highlighted the squadron's history and enduring contributions. 

"Forty years ago, this squadron was established with a vision and purpose - to provide rapidly deployable, self-sustaining combat engineering capabilities anywhere in the world,” said Abisaab. "Today, as we celebrate this milestone, we honor the men and women who have carried that vision forward, ensuring that the squadron remains the cornerstone of readiness, resilience and excellence.” 

Attendees watched a video and photo montage highlighting the squadron's journey and accomplishments over the past four decades. They were encouraged to honor the past, embrace the present and prepare for the future with the same bravery and resolve that united them as an enduring fighting force. 

“This squadron has consistently demonstrated the highest standards of excellence–whether it's been downrange operations, constructing critical airfields in austere environments, responding to natural disasters or supporting humanitarian missions,” Abisaab said. 

Today, the 203rd RED HORSE continues to train the next generation of engineers, ensuring mission readiness for future challenges. Airmen undergo rigorous training, blending technical expertise with leadership development, to maintain the unit's unmatched capabilities.

"Together, the 203rd and the 192nd are greater than the sum of our parts," said Lange. "And I have seen that since I have been here." 

The ceremony celebrated past achievements and recognized current projects, inspiring the squadron's members to forge ahead, ready to meet new challenges with the same commitment that has defined the unit for four decades.

Lange emphasized the dedication and innovative spirit of the 203rd Airmen, noting that while technology may advance, the need for hands-on skills to succeed in the RED HORSE remains timeless. 

Every message was clear: being part of the 203rd RED HORSE means always being ready and upholding a legacy built on courage, perseverance and a commitment to excellence—qualities that make every member deserving of wearing the signature red ball cap.

Lange concluded his remarks and the event with a powerful reminder of the 203rd RED HORSE's identity and enduring significance:

"Since the beginning, RED HORSE has led from the front," he said. "The reason you exist is clear, we need expeditionary engineers who can build and rebuild under fire."