732 ECES

The 732nd Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron (732 ECES) was a United States Air Force unit activated to support operations in the Middle East, particularly during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in the 2000s. The unit provided vital engineering services, including construction, repair, and maintenance of airfields, bases, and infrastructure in austere and hostile environments. The 732 ECES was notable for its deployment of "in-lieu-of" Airmen, who often operated outside traditional Air Force roles to support Army missions such as convoy security and base defense. Their contributions played a critical role in maintaining operational capabilities and force protection for U.S. and coalition forces in the region.