JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM –
A U.S. Army rotational unit preparing to redeploy to Fort Carson, Colorado, recently completed the turn-in of route clearance vehicles and robotic systems with support from Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services personnel in South Korea. The effort required close coordination between the Camp Humphreys disposal service representatives and the Gimcheon site team to ensure the unit met its redeployment timeline.
The equipment package included six route clearance vehicles and multiple robotic systems used to detect and neutralize explosive hazards. Among the items processed were four mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles, two Buffalo bomb service trucks, and several mine-clearing robotic systems equipped with sensors and electro-optical tracking components.
The high-value assets were originally valued at more than $7.8 million. Items included two electro-optical tracking systems, four mine-resistant vehicles originally purchased by the military for more than $5 million, two robotic deployment systems, and two bomb service trucks.
The turn-in process began in early January, with the final equipment delivered Jan. 30. Despite a full appointment schedule, the Korea team expanded availability to ensure the unit could complete all required actions before redeployment.
Area Manager John Reber said coordination between the two sites was essential to meeting the deadline.
“The bottom line is that our DSRs at Camp Humphreys and the team at Gimcheon delivered outstanding support, enabling the rotational unit to complete its turn-in on time and rotate back to the U.S.,” said Reber.
DLA Disposition Services Indo-Pacific Director Faron Cordrey said the effort reflects the importance of regional collaboration in supporting forward-deployed forces.
“Our personnel in Korea continue to demonstrate strong coordination and attention to detail when assisting units preparing to redeploy,” said Cordrey. “Managing high-value, technically complex equipment turn-ins requires teamwork across multiple locations, and the Korea team consistently provides that level of support.”
The supported unit also expressed appreciation for the assistance. In a message to the team, 1st Lt. Andrew Ficenec, executive officer with the 299th Engineer Battalion, wrote: “On behalf of the entire 299th Engineer Battalion, thank you for the thorough assistance and guidance in turning in our route-clearance package while on rotation. It may have seemed routine from your end, but for us it was a crucial piece as we are immediately divesting all equipment upon return.
“Your support gave us a significant head start. As a relatively new executive officer unfamiliar with the DLA turn-in process and route-clearance equipment specifics, your help was invaluable.”
The completed turn-in supports the unit’s redeployment requirements and highlights the role of DLA Disposition Services personnel in maintaining accountability and material readiness across the Indo-Pacific region.