About this Unit
The 17th Engineering unit has a proud legacy of service, originally activated during World War II to provide critical combat engineering support in the European Theater. Throughout its history, the unit has specialized in constructing bridges, clearing obstacles, and supporting mobility operations for front-line forces. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the 17th Engineering played a vital role in building infrastructure and ensuring supply lines remained open under challenging combat conditions. In recent decades, the unit has contributed to both peacekeeping and humanitarian missions, continuing its tradition of excellence and adaptability in diverse operational environments.
Historical Facts
• World War I Origins: The 17th Engineer Regiment was first constituted on July 1, 1916, and organized at Camp Lewis, Washington, in 1917 to support the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe during World War I.
• WWI Service: The unit deployed to France as part of the 2nd Division, where they participated in major campaigns including Aisne-Marne, St. Mihiel, and Meuse-Argonne.
• Bridging the Marne: The 17th Engineers earned distinction for constructing critical pontoon bridges under fire during the Second Battle of the Marne, enabling Allied advances.
• WWII Pacific Theater: Reactivated in 1940, the 17th Engineer Battalion served in the Pacific, notably building airfields, roads, and fortifications in the Philippines and New Guinea.
• Post-WWII Service: After WWII, the 17th Engineers participated in occupation duties in Japan and contributed to postwar reconstruction efforts.
• Vietnam War: The unit was deployed to Vietnam, where they constructed and maintained infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and bases under challenging conditions and frequent enemy attacks.
• Gulf War Participation: The 17th Engineers were mobilized for Operation Desert Storm in 1991, supporting coalition forces with mobility, countermobility, and survivability operations.
• Humanitarian Missions: Throughout its history, the 17th Engineers have participated in humanitarian missions, including disaster relief operations both in the United States and abroad.
• Modern Deployments: In recent decades, elements of the 17th Engineer Battalion have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing route clearance, construction, and combat engineering support.
• Unit Motto: The 17th Engineer Battalion’s motto is “We Pave the Way”, reflecting their critical role in enabling the maneuver of friendly forces and ensuring mission success on the battlefield.
