JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- A recent power outage left parts of the Joint Base in the dark following an explosion at the main McGuire-Dix-side power station here, July 14.
No one was injured in the incident, and 87th Civil Engineer Group officials are still investigating the cause of the explosion which was equivalent to a tank shell exploding.
“It blew the doors open and destroyed the panels off the switch gears,” said Tim Leary, an electrical distributions supervisor for the 87th CEG. “Much of the substation was destroyed in the blast. We’re very lucky nobody was injured when it happened.”
Within minutes of the catastrophe, electricians, structural engineers and plumbers from both the 787th Civil Engineer Squadron and 87th CES were on the scene. After assessing the damage and ensuring the safety of everyone involved, the Airmen began intensive repairs as the Air Force electricians developed a temporary solution to the power crisis.
“Not a single person wanted to leave during the repairs,” said Leary, explaining the amount of work that went into bringing power back to the Joint Base. “The Airmen were exhausted. But, they worked hard, staying until the job was done - and that’s something to be proud of.”
The electricians are currently working on developing a permanent solution to the partial destruction of the main power hub.
“Whenever there is a power outage there is going to be stress,” said Leary. “I think the base understands that there is only so many things we can do to repair it right now. We’re talking 34,000 volts – it’s not like replacing a wall outlet or a lightbulb.”
The roughly 30 Airmen in the electrical shop here are responsible for all electrical issues on McGuire-Dix-side of the Joint Base. Whether it’s a broken wall outlet or something more serious like the explosion at the power station – it’s all in their hands.
“Our Airmen do exceptional work,” said Senior Master Sgt. Anthony King, facilities superintendent, 87th CEG. “I really am proud of them; they always do a great job.”
As a permanent solution to the partially-destroyed power plant is implemented, expert electricians here are thankful for the continued patience and support of the Joint Base community.