Fort Stewart 2nd BDE 3 ID, E CO 9BEB Maintenance

• Unit Lineage: The 2nd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division (2nd BDE, 3 ID) traces its roots back to World War I, with the 3rd ID known as the "Rock of the Marne" for its heroic stand at the Marne River in 1918. • Fort Stewart Home: Fort Stewart, located in Georgia, is the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi River and has housed the 2nd BDE, 3 ID for decades. • 9th Brigade Engineer Battalion (9BEB): The 9BEB, nicknamed the "Gila Battalion," has a proud history dating back to World War II, where it participated in the Normandy landings and campaigns across Europe. • "E" Company (E CO), Maintenance: E CO, 9BEB provides essential maintenance support, ensuring that the battalion's vehicles and equipment remain mission-ready, often working under challenging field conditions. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The 2nd Brigade, including elements of 9BEB, was among the first units to cross into Iraq in 2003, playing a key role in the capture of Baghdad. • Distinctive Insignia: The 3rd ID's blue and white striped patch is instantly recognizable and symbolizes steadfastness and loyalty, virtues upheld by E CO, 9BEB soldiers. • Combat Engineers' Role: Members of E CO, 9BEB not only maintain vehicles but also support combat engineers in breaching obstacles, clearing roads, and constructing fortifications under fire. • Deployment Tempo: Soldiers in E CO, 9BEB have supported multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, often spending significant time away from home to support combat operations. • Stories of Ingenuity: Maintenance soldiers are renowned for their innovative "field fixes," using limited resources to keep vital combat equipment operational in austere environments. • Community and Camaraderie: E CO, 9BEB fosters a strong sense of brotherhood and teamwork, with traditions such as promotion ceremonies, cookouts, and mentoring new soldiers, building morale and unit pride.