Howard AFB CES

**Howard AFB CES Military History:** The Civil Engineering Squadron (CES) at Howard Air Force Base (AFB), Panama, played a crucial support role during the base’s operational years, particularly throughout the Cold War and Operation Just Cause in 1989. Tasked with the maintenance and construction of facilities, runways, and infrastructure, the Howard AFB CES ensured the base’s readiness for rapid deployment and sustained air operations across Latin America. Their expertise was vital in supporting U.S. Southern Command missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts in the region. The unit’s legacy reflects a commitment to operational excellence and adaptability, contributing significantly to U.S. strategic interests in the Western Hemisphere until the base’s closure in 1999.