ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia – Virginia National Guard Soldiers assigned to the Powhatan-based 1033rd Engineer Support Company, 276th Engineer Battalion, 329th Regional Support Group supported a multi-national exercise in Mongolia during the unit’s annual training. 

Khaan Quest 2026 concluded July 3, 2026, with a closing ceremony at the Five Hills Training Area near Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. The Asian nation has hosted the peacekeeping operations exercise annually since 2003, co-sponsored by U.S. Pacific Command. 

“Participation in Khaan Quest represents Virginia’s commitment to national interests by supporting Mongolia as a beacon of democracy sandwiched between the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China,” said Lt. Col. Ryan P. Miner, commander of the 276th Engineer Battalion. “The Soldiers of the 1033rd ESC represent the very best of our nation’s military, and the accolades from their Mongolian counterparts and USARPAC alike speak volumes of the loyalty and dedication of these Soldiers.”

During the exercise, the 1033rd’s Soldiers supported the exercise with vertical and horizontal construction, surveying, quarry operations and field maintenance operations. 

“The Soldiers of 1033rd greatly exceeded the standard,” said Capt. Garret A. Shultz, Commander of the 1033rd. “Our work will leave a lasting impact for the country of Mongolia and set the stage for future engineering projects."

The exercise brought together military organizations from 18 different nations, including Canada, Australia, Japan, Kuwait, South Korea and the United Kingdom. The opportunity to work with so many allied partners and gain real-world experience will greatly benefit the 1033rd’s Soldiers, said 1st Sgt. Shaun Howard. 

“The Soldiers of the 1033rd Engineer Support Company received real world, operational experience, constructing a roadway that will enhance the operability of Five Hills Training Area,” said Howard. “Our platoon leaders and noncommissioned officers also gained valuable insight in partner nation collaboration by working with Mongolian Armed Forces counterparts, learning their standard operating procedures and how best to operate in a joint environment.”

By Maj. Johnny Partin | 329th Regional Support Group

Published Date:2026-07-23