'Dirty boys' dig in, get hands messy Published March 18, 2011 By 2nd Lt. Katie Batchelder 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- After washing his uniform, Staff Sgt. Nicholas Haasch, 60th Civil Engineer Squadron heavy equipment operator, still had dirt stains on the creases of his sleeves and pants. Sergeant Haasch, Senior Airman Evan Daly, Senior Airman Darren Kasten and Senior Airman Duron Washington are known as the "dirt boys." The dirt boys of the 60th CES take pride in keeping Travis working and looking beautiful, no matter how much dirt they have to dig up. The dirt boys respond to infrastructure emergencies on base. They clear roadways, ensure the airfield is clear of debris and holes, keep perimeter roads smooth, help plumbers get to underground pipes and operate heavy machinery. "I take a lot of pride in seeing a project that we've completed in use," said Airman Washington. During the recent Commander in Chief's Installation Excellence selection board visit, the dirt boys worked from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. to help repair a drainage break and patch up the road, ensuring the area was pristine for the approaching visit. "It's really a lot of fun and completing our group efforts is a great feeling," said Airman Washington. "It's like being a big kid in a sandbox."