118th CES

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 118th CES

The 118th Civil Engineer Squadron (118th CES) is a unit of the Tennessee Air National Guard, assigned to the 118th Wing based at Berry Field Air National Guard Base in Nashville, Tennessee. Established in 1956, the 118th CES has provided critical engineering, construction, emergency management, and disaster response support for both state and federal missions. The squadron has deployed personnel and resources in support of overseas operations, such as Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, as well as domestic disaster relief efforts including hurricane and flood responses. Throughout its history, the 118th CES has played a vital role in ensuring mission readiness and base infrastructure, upholding its commitment to both national defense and community support.

Unit Members

Edwin O'Kelley

U.S. Air Force

118th CESView Profile

ABT

Austin Bradley Thompson

U.S. Air Force

118th CESView Profile

Photos

The Last Squadron

U.S. Navy • 1952

andy under the 8inch guns

U.S. Navy • 1956

Turkish Mailman and Apartment workers Izmir

U.S. Air Force • 1957

Mogambo Casino Izmir Turkey 2

U.S. Air Force • 1957

About 118th CES

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 118th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is part of the Tennessee Air National Guard, based at Berry Field Air National Guard Base in Nashville, Tennessee. • Parent Unit: The squadron is a subordinate unit of the 118th Wing, which has a long history dating back to World War II. • Mission: The 118th CES provides engineering support for base infrastructure, disaster response, and rapid runway repair, both at home and abroad. • Deployments: Members of the 118th CES have participated in numerous overseas operations, including deployments to Southwest Asia in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. • Disaster Response: The squadron has responded to natural disasters in Tennessee and across the United States, assisting with recovery efforts after hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes. • Prime BEEF: The 118th CES is part of the Air Force’s “Prime BEEF” (Base Engineer Emergency Force) program, which prepares units for rapid deployment to build and repair critical infrastructure. • Community Projects: The unit regularly participates in community service projects, such as building playgrounds, renovating schools, and supporting veterans’ facilities. • Training Excellence: The squadron is known for its rigorous training regimen, which includes emergency management, firefighting, explosive ordnance disposal, and construction skills. • Awards: The 118th CES has received multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its exemplary performance and contributions to mission success. • Heritage: The squadron’s emblem and motto reflect its commitment to “Ready Engineers, Anytime, Anywhere,” honoring its legacy of service and adaptability.