HHC 1st Engineer's

• Founding Roots: The Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 1st Engineer Battalion traces its lineage back to 1846, making it the oldest continuously serving engineer battalion in the U.S. Army. • Mexican-American War: The unit’s earliest predecessor saw action in the Mexican-American War, contributing to the Army’s engineering needs in difficult terrain and new environments. • Civil War Valor: The 1st Engineers served with distinction during the Civil War, building bridges, roads, and fortifications that proved critical to Union campaigns. • WWI Innovations: During World War I, the unit pioneered new techniques in trench construction, camouflage, and defensive wiring, adapting to the challenges of modern, industrial warfare. • Normandy Landings: Elements of the 1st Engineers played a crucial role in the D-Day invasion of Normandy in 1944, clearing obstacles and mines under fire to enable the success of Allied forces. • Korean and Vietnam Wars: The battalion was active in both conflicts, specializing in combat engineering, demolition, and construction under combat conditions, often earning commendations for its efforts. • Desert Storm: In Operation Desert Storm, the unit was vital in breaching Iraqi defenses, using mine-clearing line charges and heavy equipment to clear paths for advancing coalition forces. • Humanitarian Aid: The HHC 1st Engineers have participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations in the United States and abroad, showcasing their versatility beyond combat roles. • Regimental Pride: The battalion’s motto, “FIRST AND ALWAYS,” reflects its long history of being at the forefront of Army engineering missions and its reputation for reliability. • Modern Deployments: In recent decades, HHC 1st Engineers have deployed in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, focusing on route clearance, IED defeat, and infrastructure rebuilding.