Civil Engineer Group answers service call in New Mexico Published Feb. 10, 2011 By Wayne Crenshaw 78 ABW/PA ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- Five members of the 78th Civil Engineer Group are helping Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico cope with massive plumbing problems which resulted from a deep freeze. The specialists arrived Sunday to help repair busted water pipes caused by sustained record lows. Kirtland is in a typically-warm climate, and many of its buildings were not designed for sub-freezing temperatures. The freak cold snap caused extensive damage across the base, particularly to the fire suppression system. It also impacted 200 homes at the base, forcing about 160 families to relocate to nearby hotels. A Kirtland official estimated the damage at $1.65 million, but said that figure is expected to rise. Since Albuquerque and the surrounding area experienced the same weather conditions, skilled plumbers are in short supply. So, Robins agreed to send some people to help out. Ricky Tidwell is leading the 78th CEG team, which includes Joel Kersey, Thomas McDaniel, Terry Owens and John Bennett. They are expected to be at Kirtland for two weeks.