About this Unit
The 139th Civil Engineer Squadron, known as the 139th CES, is a key support unit within the 139th Airlift Wing of the Missouri Air National Guard, stationed at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base in St. Joseph, Missouri. The squadron specializes in engineering, construction, emergency management, and disaster response, providing essential base infrastructure support and rapid deployment capabilities. As part of its Defense Emergency Force (DEF) mission, the 139th CES has participated in both domestic operations—such as disaster relief during floods and storms—and overseas deployments supporting U.S. Air Force missions. Over the years, the unit has earned recognition for its professionalism, readiness, and vital contributions to both state and federal military operations.
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 139th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is part of the Missouri Air National Guard, stationed at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri. "DEF" indicates their role as a Deployable Engineering Flight.
• Disaster Response: The 139th CES has a distinguished record of responding to state and national emergencies, including tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes, supporting both military and civilian authorities.
• Global Deployments: Members of the unit have deployed to multiple overseas locations in support of Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and other missions, providing vital engineering and infrastructure support.
• Prime BEEF: The 139th CES is a "Prime BEEF" (Base Engineer Emergency Force) team, capable of rapid deployment to build, repair, and maintain airfield and base operations anywhere worldwide.
• Historic Floods: The squadron played a crucial role during the Great Flood of 1993, helping reinforce levees and provide humanitarian assistance around St. Joseph, Missouri.
• Innovation: The unit is known for adopting advanced engineering techniques and technologies, including rapid runway repair and modular construction, to improve mission readiness.
• Recognition: The 139th CES has received several Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its exemplary performance in both peacetime and combat support missions.
• Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat roles, the unit has participated in humanitarian civic action projects in Central America, building schools, clinics, and infrastructure for underserved communities.
• Training Exercises: The squadron regularly conducts joint training with Army Corps of Engineers and other branches to enhance inter-service cooperation and disaster preparedness.
• Community Involvement: The 139th CES is deeply involved in local Missouri communities, supporting veterans’ events, STEM education, and public safety initiatives, strengthening ties between the military and civilians.
