435th CES

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About 435th CES

The 435th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to the 435th Air Ground Operations Wing, stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Originally activated in the mid-20th century, the unit has played a vital role in providing engineering support, rapid airfield repair, and infrastructure development for U.S. and NATO operations throughout Europe and beyond. The 435th CES specializes in airbase recovery, expeditionary engineering, and emergency management, frequently deploying in support of contingency operations and humanitarian missions. Over the years, the squadron has earned recognition for its contributions to both combat and peacetime missions, demonstrating versatility and expertise in a wide range of engineering disciplines.

Unit Members

Fred Duquette

U.S. Air Force

435th CESView Profile

James Hoover

U.S. Air Force

435th CESView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About 435th CES

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Origins: The 435th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) traces its roots to the 435th Air Base Group, which was activated in 1949 at Miami International Airport, Florida. • European Presence: The unit is currently stationed at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, serving as a key engineering force for U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA). • Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers (RED HORSE): The 435th CES includes the highly specialized 435th Construction and Training Squadron (CTS), which is known for rapid-deployment engineering capabilities. • Post-Cold War Operations: The squadron played an essential role during post-Cold War drawdowns, helping transform and realign U.S. bases across Europe. • Humanitarian Missions: They have deployed teams for humanitarian missions in Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, constructing schools, clinics, and vital infrastructure. • Bare Base Construction: The 435th CES specializes in "bare base" construction, rapidly setting up fully functional airfields and support facilities in previously undeveloped locations. • Disaster Response: The squadron has responded to natural disasters, such as providing emergency infrastructure support following earthquakes or floods in Europe and Africa. • Innovative Training: The unit runs the only U.S. Air Force Silver Flag exercise site in Europe, training engineers from across the continent in combat support and contingency operations. • Combat Support: The 435th CES routinely deploys engineers to support combat operations in the Middle East, including Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve. • Honors and Awards: The squadron has earned multiple Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards for its continued excellence in engineering, readiness, and mission support.