About this Unit
The 377th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is a vital unit of the United States Air Force, stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Established to provide engineering support, the squadron is responsible for base infrastructure, emergency response, and environmental management. Throughout its history, the 377th CES has played a key role in maintaining operational readiness by ensuring facilities and runways are mission-capable. The squadron has consistently supported both peacetime and contingency operations, contributing to the overall mission success of Kirtland AFB and the Air Force at large.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 377th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is part of the 377th Air Base Wing, based at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. The unit traces its origins to the early days of the Air Force’s presence in Albuquerque.
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Mission: The squadron is responsible for all civil engineering functions at Kirtland AFB, including facility maintenance, emergency management, environmental stewardship, and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).
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Nuclear Support: Kirtland AFB is a key U.S. hub for nuclear weapons research and storage. The 377th CES plays a pivotal role in supporting these sensitive national security missions.
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Disaster Response: The squadron’s Emergency Management Flight is trained to respond to natural disasters, hazardous materials incidents, and even acts of terrorism involving weapons of mass destruction.
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Explosive Ordnance Disposal: The 377th CES houses an elite EOD team, which is tasked with protecting personnel and property from explosive threats both on base and in the surrounding region.
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Environmental Stewardship: The squadron oversees environmental compliance and restoration projects, helping to manage hazardous waste and protect the unique desert ecosystem of New Mexico.
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Global Deployments: Members of the 377th CES have been deployed worldwide, supporting operations in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia as part of contingency and humanitarian missions.
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Historic Support: The squadron supported recovery and clean-up after the 1980s Titan II missile accident near Damascus, Arkansas, with technical expertise in hazardous materials and site restoration.
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Community Engagement: The 377th CES actively participates in local outreach, including STEM education, environmental awareness campaigns, and partnerships with Albuquerque city agencies.
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Innovation: The unit has been recognized for pioneering sustainable engineering solutions, including solar energy projects and water conservation initiatives at Kirtland AFB.
