About this Unit
The 36th Engineer Regiment, originally constituted in 1917 as the 36th Engineers, has a distinguished history of service in the United States Army. Activated for service during World War I, the unit played a key role in constructing essential infrastructure in France. During World War II, the 36th Engineers participated in major campaigns, including the North African and Italian campaigns, earning multiple commendations for their combat engineering expertise. Over the decades, the regiment has continued to support both combat operations and humanitarian missions, upholding its legacy of excellence and adaptability in challenging environments.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War I: The 36th Engineers were first constituted during World War I in 1918 as the 36th Engineer Regiment, tasked primarily with railway construction and operations in France.
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Redesignation in WWII: The unit was redesignated as the 36th Engineer Combat Regiment in 1942, reflecting its broader combat engineering role in World War II.
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Amphibious Invasion of North Africa: The 36th Engineers played a crucial role during Operation Torch, the Allied invasion of North Africa in November 1942, constructing beach exits and clearing obstacles under fire.
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Assault Landings in Italy: The regiment supported multiple amphibious assaults in Italy, including the landings at Salerno and Anzio, where they cleared mines, built bridges, and enabled Allied advances.
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Decorated Unit: The 36th Engineer Regiment earned several unit citations and campaign streamers during WWII, including the French Croix de Guerre for bravery and distinguished service.
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Post-WWII Service: After WWII, the 36th was inactivated and reactivated several times, serving in various forms as the 36th Engineer Battalion in Korea, Vietnam, and later conflicts.
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Vietnam War Contributions: The unit was deployed to Vietnam, where it built vital infrastructure such as roads, airfields, and bases, often under hazardous conditions and enemy fire.
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Modern Deployments: In recent decades, the 36th Engineers have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing route clearance, construction, and combat engineering support for coalition operations.
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Motto and Insignia: The unit’s motto, “Rugged! Rugged!”, reflects its tough and resilient spirit. Its distinctive insignia features a castle, a traditional symbol of engineers.
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Legacy of Innovation: Throughout its history, the 36th Engineers have pioneered techniques in bridging, mine clearance, and combat construction, earning a reputation for adaptability and courage under fire.
