About this Unit
The 62nd Civil Engineer Squadron (62nd CES) is a vital unit within the United States Air Force, assigned to the 62nd Airlift Wing at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. Established to provide comprehensive engineering support, the squadron is responsible for maintaining and repairing base facilities, ensuring airfield readiness, and supporting rapid deployment operations. Over the decades, the 62nd CES has played a crucial role in both domestic and overseas missions, including humanitarian relief efforts and contingency operations. Their expertise in construction, emergency management, and environmental stewardship ensures mission success and the safety of personnel and assets.
Historical Facts
• Origins: The 62nd Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is part of the 62nd Airlift Wing at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, supporting mission readiness since its activation.
• Primary Mission: The unit provides engineering support, emergency management, and base infrastructure maintenance for both peacetime and contingency operations.
• Disaster Response: The 62nd CES is vital in responding to natural disasters, including earthquake and flood recovery efforts at Joint Base Lewis-McChord and surrounding communities.
• Deployment Record: Personnel from the 62nd CES have deployed globally in support of operations such as Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing crucial engineering support in combat zones.
• Rapid Runway Repair: The squadron is trained and equipped for airfield damage repair, a key capability for ensuring sustained air operations during and after attacks.
• Base Fire Protection: The 62nd CES includes a fire and emergency services flight, responding to emergencies on base and providing mutual aid to local civilian agencies.
• Environmental Stewardship: The squadron manages programs for hazardous waste, environmental compliance, and energy conservation, ensuring the base meets all federal and DoD standards.
• Historic Winter Storm Response: In 2008, the 62nd CES played a critical role in keeping runways and infrastructure operational during one of the harshest winters in base history.
• Innovation and Awards: The unit has earned multiple Air Force-level awards for innovation in engineering practices and excellence in base facility management.
• Community Engagement: Members of the 62nd CES regularly participate in local community projects, including Habitat for Humanity builds and STEM outreach to local schools.
