70th Combat Engineer

• World War II Origins: The 70th Engineer Battalion (Combat) was constituted during World War II, originally activated in 1941 at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, becoming a critical support unit for Allied operations. • Normandy Campaign: Elements of the 70th Combat Engineers played a key role during the D-Day landings, clearing obstacles and mines on Omaha Beach to enable infantry and armor to advance inland. • Redesignations: Throughout its history, the unit underwent several redesignations, including being known as the 70th Engineer Combat Battalion and later the 70th Engineer Battalion (Combat) (Heavy). • Vietnam Service: The battalion deployed to Vietnam, where it built roads, bridges, and airfields under hostile conditions, supporting U.S. and allied forces throughout the conflict. • Decorations: The 70th Engineer Battalion has been awarded numerous honors, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and campaign streamers for WWII, Vietnam, Southwest Asia, and the War on Terrorism. • Gulf War Operations: During Operation Desert Storm, the 70th supported the rapid movement of coalition forces by breaching obstacles and constructing critical infrastructure in Kuwait and Iraq. • Fort Riley Assignment: The unit was long stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, where it provided engineering support and training to the 1st Infantry Division, also known as the "Big Red One." • Humanitarian Missions: Beyond combat, the 70th Engineers have participated in disaster relief and humanitarian missions, including hurricane recovery and rebuilding efforts in the U.S. and abroad. • Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, the 70th Engineer Battalion has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting counterinsurgency operations, route clearance, and infrastructure development. • Legacy and Motto: The battalion’s motto, “Lead the Way”, reflects its pioneering spirit and reputation for tackling the toughest engineering challenges in the Army, both in war and peace.