Prime BEEF Awards

Engineering Journeyman

Senior Airman Dustin J. Hadfield distinguished himself by outstanding achievement as Engineering Journeyman while assigned to the 777th Expeditionary Prime BEEF Squadron, 577th Expeditionary Prime BEEF Group, Afghanistan. Airmen Hadfield oversaw the construction of 34 dormitories and relocated 4,000 Marines from dilapidated tents to new pre-engineered buildings, improving their quality of life. Additionally, he prepared the Zaranj runway repair cost estimate for the short notice, high visibility 478,000 dollar contract award that was critical to the expansion of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan's political gains. Finally, Airmen Hadfield established critical arc stand-off distances for the Tactical Explosive Safety Office, ensuring proper siting of munitions storage facilities within a safe distance of life support areas. The distinctive accomplishments of Airman Hadfield reflect credit upon himself, the 777th Expeditionary Prime BEEF Squadron and the United States Air Force.

Construction Team

The seven-member construction team distinguished itself through exceptional performance while supporting the construction of a mission-essential K-Span facility during deployed contingency operations. Through synchronized horizontal and vertical construction efforts, the team executed complex engineering tasks that accelerated project timelines and ensured the successful development of critical contingency infrastructure.

The team executed precision excavation and site development for two M-wall foundations, safely excavating, transporting, and staging approximately 164 cubic yards of soil and oversized rock while maintaining safe heavy equipment operations and strict adherence to engineering specifications. The team then placed, graded, and compacted approximately 164 cubic yards of base course for the M-wall foundations and an additional 40 cubic yards supporting two HVAC mechanical equipment pads. Additionally, the team performed precision grading and leveling of the K-Span interior base course, establishing a stable subgrade for concrete floor placement and enabling uninterrupted follow-on construction operations.

The team further executed critical vertical construction by measuring, cutting, plumbing, fastening, and seaming 32 K-Span end-wall panels of various lengths, ensuring structural alignment and integrity throughout assembly. When an improperly installed 16-foot header assembly was identified, the team removed the defective header, reinstalled it at the proper elevation, and completed all required welding to restore structural integrity and compliance with engineering specifications. The team also prepared 64 linear feet of roll-up door framing for flashing installation and repaired more than 350 stem wall penetrations with water-stop cement, enhancing the facility's weather resistance and long-term durability.

Through outstanding teamwork, technical expertise, and unwavering dedication to mission accomplishment, the seven-member construction team delivered mission-essential infrastructure that enhanced contingency engineering capabilities and reflected great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.