JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Alaska winter weather can be majestic – snow-draped mountains, frozen landscape and skies illuminated by the Northern Lights – but it also comes with the territory of strong winds, heavy snowfall, frigid temperatures and blizzard conditions that challenge daily operations across Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson.
The 773d Civil Engineer Squadron windstorm recovery team, consisting of electrical response and a heavy equipment team, is on standby 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond without hesitation during adverse weather and ensure the mission continues.
“Airmen stationed here are experts at operating in extreme weather,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Kevin Manalo, 773d CES director of operations. “In Alaska, high winds, sub-zero temperatures and limited visibility are daily challenges.”
The electrical team responds to major windstorms and weather-related incidents across the installation. In 2025, the team responded to three major wind events, including last month’s storm that brought record-breaking 93 mph wind gusts to Southcentral Alaska.
More than 45 Airmen and civilians supported the power outage.
Reflecting on the windstorm, Manalo said Airmen routinely train, inspect equipment and ensure vehicles and tools remain mission-ready.
“During the storm, crews worked marathon shifts to restore power swiftly and safely,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Scott Wilson, 773d CES facilities superintendent. “As winds intensified or priorities changed, Airmen adapted their plans and timelines to keep operations on track. Quick decision-making ensured resources were directed where they were needed the most.”
The response was credited to established protocols and close coordination across base agencies, demonstrating the installation’s ability to absorb disruption and recover quickly.
As power was restored, the windstorm recovery team’s focus shifted to snow removal operations. To keep access routes and airfield surfaces clear, the heavy equipment team at the snow barn mobilized a rotating shift, operating specialized equipment day and night to clear priority routes and roads based on mission-driven priorities.
“When another event starts before completing the entire list, we revert [to mission requirements],” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Andrew Tucker, 773d CES pavements and equipment section chief. “From there, we start the process again.”
The 773d CES snow barn operations are supported by 98 Airmen and civilians who work three eight-hour shifts to maintain continuous readiness for snow removal operations. The rotating schedule allows teams to mobilize quickly while monitoring forecasts and adjusting operations as conditions change.
“Mission dictates the priorities, so they are ever shifting,” Tucker added. “We work closely with airfield management for needs and mission requirements on the airfield side …. and also coordinate with snow control and CE customer service.”
Despite the high operational tempo during the winter season, coordination remained critical.
Tucker and Manalo emphasized that coordination and clear communication were key to maintaining safe operations and steady progress in meeting mission requirements while supporting the base community.
“Wind, darkness and sub-zero temperatures are part of the operating environment here,” Manalo said. “Every incident reinforces readiness and shows our Airmen are prepared to execute the mission regardless of the conditions.”
Through preparation, teamwork, and relentless effort, the Airmen and civilians of the windstorm recovery team sustain operational readiness during Alaska’s harsh winter environment. Winter sets the conditions, and the 773d CES defines the outcome.