About this Unit
The 191st Air National Guard Civil Engineers is a specialized unit within the Air National Guard, tasked with providing critical engineering support for both peacetime and combat operations. Established to ensure rapid response capabilities, the unit has played a pivotal role in constructing and maintaining airfield infrastructure, emergency facilities, and utilities during stateside and overseas deployments. Over the years, the 191st has been mobilized for humanitarian missions, disaster response efforts, and overseas contingency operations, showcasing their adaptability and technical expertise. Their commitment to excellence has earned them recognition for supporting national defense and community resilience missions.
Historical Facts
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Origins in Michigan: The 191st Air National Guard Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) is part of the Michigan Air National Guard, supporting Selfridge Air National Guard Base (ANGB), one of the oldest continuously operating military airfields in the nation.
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Critical Infrastructure Support: The 191st CES is responsible for maintaining and repairing base facilities, runways, and support systems at Selfridge ANGB, ensuring readiness for Air Mobility Command missions.
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Disaster Response: The squadron regularly trains for rapid deployment in natural disasters, including hurricanes and floods, where they provide emergency power, debris removal, and temporary shelter construction.
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Global Deployments: Members of the 191st CES have deployed worldwide, including to the Middle East and Europe, supporting U.S. Air Force operations by building and maintaining forward operating bases.
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Post-9/11 Operations: Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, the 191st CES was activated for homeland security missions and provided critical support for Operation Noble Eagle.
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Contingency Construction: The squadron specializes in rapid runway repair, airfield lighting, and shelter construction—key elements for establishing air operations in austere environments.
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Humanitarian Missions: The 191st CES has participated in humanitarian missions, such as building schools, clinics, and clean water systems in Latin America and the Caribbean as part of the U.S. Southern Command’s New Horizons exercises.
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Environmental Stewardship: The unit is involved in environmental protection efforts at Selfridge ANGB, including hazardous materials management, wildlife habitat protection, and energy conservation projects.
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Joint Training: The 191st CES frequently conducts joint exercises with Army, Navy, and Marine engineer units, enhancing interoperability and readiness for both combat and disaster response.
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Legacy of Service: The 191st CES is part of the 191st Wing, which traces its lineage back to World War II, and has a proud tradition of supporting both state and federal missions for over 70 years.
