Alaska National Guard helps offer transportation for the Arctic Winter Games

PALMER — Several representatives from the Alaska National Guard are assisting with transportation during the Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games.

Multiple AWG sporting events such as skiing and snowboarding are taking place in the Skeetawk Ski Area in Hatcher Pass. Alaska National Guard Sergeant Seth Walker and other enlisted individuals have been helping with the event transportation by taking athletes up the mountain in Small Unit Support Vehicles (SUSVs).

SUSVs are fully-tracked, all-terrain, amphibious vehicles that are designed to transport troops in arctic, mountainous, and swampy environments.

According to a 2014 press release from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson discussing a training exercise where paratroopers practiced using SUSVs for arctic operations, an SUSV can be used effectively in a variety of different types of terrains and are well suited for winter conditions.

"I think that the SUSV is definitely going to help out with winter operations," Army Staff Sgt. Nicholas Lucas, the master driver for A Company, 725th BSB stated in the press release. "The more [SUSVs] that we have during winter operations, the more the unit is going to benefit."

Walker attested to the usefulness of SUSVs and he was glad they could offer them in a way that helps people.

"They work really well in most situations," Walker said. "It's nice to come out here and get involved with the community."

Alaska National Guard representatives have been present throughout the 2024 Arctic Winter Games not only as providers of transportation but also as avid fans of the athletes. During the youth Rail Jam competition held March 11, Walker said that he was impressed by the skill and showmanship the snowboarders showcased.

"These kids are amazing," Walker said.

Walker said that he’s been enlisted for 19 years. He said that he’s enjoyed being a part of the Arctic Winter Games and interacting with the public. He said the National Guard has participated in a variety of public events over the years such as the Alaska State Fair, Iron Dog, and Yukon Quest.

“It's always fun,” Walker said. “I like to come out and engage with the community and show them that we're here for them. We try to have a big presence at big community events like this and remind the community that we’re here.”

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com