About this Unit
The 116th Engineer Combat Battalion is a distinguished unit of the Idaho Army National Guard with origins dating back to World War II. Activated in 1940, the battalion served with distinction in the European Theater, supporting the 41st Infantry Division with construction, demolition, and bridging operations. The unit participated in key campaigns, including operations in New Guinea and the Philippines, where it played a crucial role in overcoming difficult terrain and enabling Allied advances. Post-war, the 116th has continued to serve both domestically and overseas, providing vital engineering support during natural disasters and military operations.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War I: The 116th Engineer Battalion traces its origins to the 1st Battalion, 148th Field Artillery, organized in 1917, and has a lineage connecting it to early Idaho National Guard units.
•
World War II Service: The 116th Engineer Combat Battalion was activated for federal service in 1940 and served with distinction in the Pacific Theater, notably in New Guinea, Biak, and the Philippines.
•
Saidor Landings: The battalion played a crucial role in the Saidor landings (New Guinea, January 1944), building airstrips and bridges under enemy fire to support advancing Allied forces.
•
Biak Island Assault: During the assault on Biak Island (May 1944), the battalion constructed essential infrastructure, including roads and supply dumps, often under threat from Japanese defenders.
•
Engineering Ingenuity: Members of the 116th were known for their innovative construction techniques, such as building floating bridges from salvaged materials when supplies were scarce.
•
Decorations and Honors: The battalion earned multiple campaign streamers and citations for its service, including the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation for its role in the liberation of Luzon.
•
Postwar Reorganization: After World War II, the unit was reorganized and federally recognized again in 1947 as the 116th Engineer Battalion (Combat), continuing its service in the Idaho Army National Guard.
•
Domestic Operations: The 116th has been called upon for disaster relief within the U.S., including flood response, wildfire fighting, and civil engineering projects in Idaho and surrounding states.
•
Deployments to the Middle East: Elements of the 116th have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing essential engineering, route clearance, and construction support.
•
Legacy and Community Ties: The battalion maintains a strong connection to Idaho communities, with armories in Boise, Twin Falls, and other cities, and is celebrated for its service in both war and peace.
