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Shaw leadership clears way for upgraded homes

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Tabatha Zarrella
  • 20th Fighter WIng Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Recently, Shaw has undergone some upgrades and changes. More importantly, upgrading 50 to 60 year old base housing. Leadership took turns demolishing the last phase in junior NCO base housing, Sept. 15, 2014.

A particular JNCO structure was selected as a symbol to celebrate the completion of the three-year long demolition project here, and the partnership between the military and the privatized building company, Forest City Southern Group.

"This last area that has now been cleared will permit the construction of the remaining 182 enlisted rank homes," said Henry Topping, Forest City senior project manager.

During the demolition, leadership at Shaw took turns mounting heavy equipment and participating in the hands-on demolition of one of the last remaining JNCO homes.

"It was a lot of fun, the amount of power in modern day heavy equipment is amazing," said Col. William Jones, 20th Fighter Wing vice commander.

Leadership also had the next family to receive their home, come out to participate in demolishing the structure.

"I was so nervous but excited at the same time," said Staff Sgt. Jessica Thompson, 20th Force Support Squadron NCOIC of retirements and separations. "It was my first time operating a tractor, but my family and I are excited to move into our new home."

Overall, the demolition was a positive day for many.

"I think it'll be positive for the Airmen because they're excited to live in new housing," said Thompson. "The homes are more of a morale boost because the homes are more modernized."

In order to stay compliant with the 20th Fighter Wing's mission to provide combat power, the wing must live by the commander's Four C's; combat readiness, compliance, community and core values.

"Quality, reliable, and affordable military family housing directly impacts 'community' and gives Team Shaw housing residents a place to unload, unwind, and spend quality time with their families thus in turn, affecting our combat capability," said Jones. "This is critical in a time and age where we continue to demand more and more out of our Team Shaw warfighters."