43 CES

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 43 CES

The 43rd Civil Engineer Squadron (43 CES) is a unit of the United States Air Force, historically based at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina. The squadron has provided critical engineering, emergency services, and base support, enabling rapid deployment and sustainment of airlift operations—especially in support of the XVIII Airborne Corps and the 82nd Airborne Division. Over the years, 43 CES has played a vital role in both stateside and deployed environments, supporting contingency, humanitarian, and combat missions worldwide. Their expertise ranges from infrastructure maintenance to disaster response, embodying the Air Force’s mission to fly, fight, and win.

Unit Members

Bill Fornaro

U.S. Air Force (1971 - 1975)

43 CESView Profile

Craig Woody

U.S. Air Force

43 CESView Profile

Photos

Osan Korea Electronic Warfare Technician

51 Component Repair Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1979

Boeing 767 Captain

U.S. Air Force • 2017

Towing Gliders

U.S. Air Force • 2000

C-141 Flight Engineer Graduation

708 Military Airlift Squadron • U.S. Air Force • 1982

About 43 CES

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 43rd Civil Engineer Squadron (43 CES) was originally activated as part of the 43rd Airlift Wing at Pope Army Airfield, North Carolina. • Base Support: 43 CES has been responsible for maintaining base infrastructure, including runways, buildings, and utilities, supporting both Air Force and Army operations at Pope Field. • Rapid Airfield Damage Repair: The squadron is highly trained in rapid runway repair, a key capability for restoring air operations after enemy attacks or natural disasters. • Humanitarian Missions: Members of 43 CES have deployed worldwide to provide disaster relief, including hurricane recovery operations in the southeastern United States. • Deployed Operations: 43 CES engineers have supported numerous overseas operations, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, constructing and maintaining forward bases. • Fire Protection: The squadron maintains a highly skilled fire department, providing emergency response for airfield incidents and structural fires. • Environmental Stewardship: 43 CES has led environmental clean-up and conservation efforts, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and preserving local ecosystems. • Prime BEEF: The unit participates in the Air Force’s Prime Base Engineer Emergency Force (Prime BEEF) program, ready to deploy on short notice for contingency operations. • Legacy of Excellence: 43 CES has earned multiple Air Force-level awards for outstanding performance, safety, and innovation in engineering support. • Community Engagement: The squadron regularly participates in community outreach, including STEM education events and local emergency preparedness exercises.