23rd Combat Engineers

• Origins: The 23rd Combat Engineer Battalion (CEB) was first constituted during World War II as part of the U.S. Army, with a mission to provide essential engineering support to combat units. • World War II Service: The battalion participated in several major campaigns in Europe, including the Normandy Invasion (D-Day), providing crucial support for bridging, demolition, and mine-clearing operations under fire. • Red Ball Express: Members of the 23rd CEB were instrumental in maintaining supply routes, notably helping to keep the famous Red Ball Express running to resupply Allied forces racing across France. • Korean War: The unit was reactivated for the Korean conflict, where it built bridges and fortifications, cleared obstacles, and played a key role in the defense of Pusan and the advance north. • Vietnam War Operations: The 23rd CEB deployed to Vietnam, constructing roads, airfields, and defensive positions, often working under constant threat from enemy forces and booby traps. • Cold War Era: During the Cold War, the battalion was stationed in Germany as part of the U.S. Army’s deterrence force, participating in numerous NATO exercises and maintaining readiness for rapid deployment. • Gulf War Service: The 23rd Combat Engineers supported Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, clearing minefields and breaching obstacles for advancing coalition forces. • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, the battalion has participated in disaster relief efforts, including rebuilding infrastructure after hurricanes and earthquakes in the United States and abroad. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 23rd CEB’s insignia features a castle, symbolizing the engineering mission, and a fleur-de-lis, commemorating its service in France during World War II. • Modern Deployments: In recent years, the 23rd CEB has supported operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, specializing in route clearance, counter-IED operations, and the construction of forward operating bases.