35th Engineer Battalion

• World War II Origins: The 35th Engineer Battalion was originally constituted on 1 October 1933 in the Regular Army as the 35th Engineer Regiment and activated at Fort Snelling, Minnesota in 1941. • D-Day Participation: Elements of the 35th Engineer Battalion landed on Omaha Beach during the Normandy invasion, playing a critical role in clearing obstacles and enabling troop movements. • Post-War Redesignation: After World War II, the unit was reorganized and redesignated several times, eventually becoming the 35th Engineer Battalion in 1948. • Vietnam War Service: The battalion served in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1972, where it was involved in constructing roads, bridges, and bases under combat conditions. • Decorations: For its service in Vietnam, the 35th Engineer Battalion received the Meritorious Unit Commendation and several campaign streamers. • Training Battalion: Today, the 35th Engineer Battalion is stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, serving as a Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training unit for combat engineers. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia features a castle, symbolizing the Army Corps of Engineers, and a fleur-de-lis, representing its World War II service in France. • Motto: The unit's motto is “Drive On,” reflecting its perseverance and can-do spirit throughout challenging missions. • Operation Enduring Freedom: Elements of the battalion have supported operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, contributing to construction and force protection projects. • Legacy of Innovation: Throughout its history, the 35th Engineer Battalion has been recognized for its engineering ingenuity, often improvising solutions to overcome obstacles in both combat and peace-time missions.