131st CES

• Origins: The 131st Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is part of the Missouri Air National Guard and is based at Whiteman Air Force Base. • Establishment: The unit was first constituted and allotted to the Air National Guard in the mid-20th century, supporting the 131st Bomb Wing. • Global Deployments: Members of the 131st CES have deployed to locations worldwide, including Iraq, Afghanistan, and various countries in support of contingency operations. • Disaster Response: The squadron has a history of responding to natural disasters, such as floods and tornadoes, providing critical infrastructure repair and humanitarian assistance in Missouri and beyond. • Prime BEEF Mission: The 131st CES is a Prime BEEF (Base Engineer Emergency Force) unit, specializing in rapid deployment and emergency engineering tasks, such as airfield repair and utility restoration. • Support for B-2 Operations: The unit plays a crucial role in supporting the 509th and 131st Bomb Wings, which operate the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber at Whiteman AFB. • Awards and Recognition: The squadron has received multiple awards for outstanding performance during both peacetime and deployed operations, including Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards. • Training Exercises: The 131st CES regularly participates in joint training exercises with other units, honing skills in construction, firefighting, explosive ordnance disposal, and emergency management. • Historic Projects: Members have contributed to significant construction and renovation projects, both stateside and overseas, often working under austere conditions to build or repair vital infrastructure. • Community Involvement: The squadron is deeply involved in the local community, participating in outreach events, educational programs, and supporting veterans’ initiatives throughout Missouri.