65th Combat Engineers

• World War II Origins: The 65th Engineer Combat Battalion was activated on 20 July 1942 at Camp Barkeley, Texas, as part of the U.S. Army’s rapid wartime expansion. • European Theater Service: The unit landed in Europe in 1944, supporting the 25th Infantry Division during the liberation campaigns across France and Germany. • Combat Bridging Prowess: The 65th gained a reputation for quickly building tactical bridges under enemy fire, enabling swift Allied advances. • Normandy Campaign: Members of the 65th were among the first to clear minefields and obstacles on the beaches following D-Day, supporting infantry movements inland. • Korean War Valor: Reactivated for the Korean War, the battalion participated in major operations such as the Pusan Perimeter defense and the Inchon landings. • Decorations and Awards: The 65th Combat Engineers have received multiple citations, including the Presidential Unit Citation and Meritorious Unit Commendation for their actions in WWII and Korea. • Innovative Engineering Solutions: The unit pioneered the use of improvised rafts and mobile assault bridges under fire, often using local materials in the European campaigns. • Vietnam War Deployments: Elements of the 65th served in Vietnam, where they constructed vital supply roads, airstrips, and defensive positions in challenging jungle environments. • Humanitarian Missions: In addition to combat operations, the 65th has participated in disaster relief, rebuilding infrastructure after floods and earthquakes in the Pacific. • Modern Legacy: Today, the 65th Engineer Battalion (Combat)(Airborne) is based at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, continuing its tradition of excellence in both combat engineering and humanitarian assistance.