2nd Combat Engineers

• Origins: The 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion (2nd CEB) is a unit of the United States Marine Corps, originally activated in 1941 at Camp Elliott, California, as the 2nd Pioneer Battalion. • World War II Service: The battalion participated in major campaigns such as Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Saipan, Tinian, and Okinawa, providing critical engineering support under fire. • Famous Landings: At Tarawa, 2nd CEB Marines used amphibious tractors and bulldozers to clear obstacles and enable the landing of thousands of troops. • Post-War Reorganization: After World War II, the unit was deactivated and then reactivated several times, reflecting the changing needs of the Marine Corps. • Korean War Contribution: Elements of the battalion served in the Korean War, supporting amphibious assaults and breaching enemy minefields under hostile conditions. • Vietnam War: 2nd CEB personnel served in Vietnam, specializing in mine and booby trap clearance, as well as constructing defensive positions. • Gulf War Operations: The battalion played a pivotal role in Operation Desert Storm, rapidly breaching Iraqi defensive obstacles to facilitate Marine advances. • Global War on Terror: 2nd CEB has served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, specializing in route clearance, IED detection, and construction of forward operating bases. • Unique Capabilities: The battalion is trained in demolitions, bridge building, obstacle clearing, and construction, making it essential for both combat and humanitarian missions. • Motto and Mascot: The battalion’s motto is “Lead the Way," reflecting their role at the front of Marine assaults. Their mascot, the "Roughneck," symbolizes toughness and determination.