39th CES dedicates facility, honors fallen airman Published Aug. 6, 2021 By Senior Airman Matthew Angulo 39th Air Base Wing INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- The 39th Civil Engineer Squadron explosive ordnance disposal flight dedicated its facility to Tech. Sgt. Phillip A. Myers during a ceremony at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, Aug. 6, 2021. Myers made the ultimate sacrifice during combat operations while serving in Afghanistan due to injuries from an improvised explosive device on April 4, 2009. “No matter the hazard, obstacle or the pain, he would never back down from a challenge and would never complain,” said Master Sgt. Kameron Giffin, 39th CES superintendent and friend of Myers. “Phil was no different with his love for the job and deploying to make the world a better place.” From 2003 to 2005, Myers was assigned to the 39th CES EOD flight, directly supporting Operation Northern Watch. He was solely responsible for the acquisition and accountability of over $3 million worth of specialized EOD equipment, vehicles and munitions. He also collaborated with the base’s Turkish Air Force EOD team, clearing over 11,000 acres of the joint-use Konya live bombing range. His efforts aided in the disposal of over 50 hazardous ordnance items. Myers earned The Air Force Commendation Medal for his service at Incirlik AB. During the ceremony, Col. John Kelly, 39th Air Base Wing vice commander, highlighted the importance of the EOD mission and lauded the character of the Airmen who join their ranks. “For every munition the Air Force has in its inventory, there must be those who can make it safe,” said Kelly. “For every adversary munition there must be an EOD skill set that can exploit it. “It is culture of dedication to craft excellence, internal fortitude, courage in the face of danger, and commitment to selfless service.” EOD personnel are charged with the render safe and disposal of conventional, chemical, biological and nuclear ordnance. Additionally, they are required to neutralize improvised explosive devices, the number one cause of coalition casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan. In addition to receiving the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, a Purple Heart, The Meritorious Service Medal and other awards, Myers' name now marks the 39th CES EOD facility. Giffin recalled something Myers would say, “EOD techs don’t die, they just go to heaven to regroup.”