855th Engineer Battalion

• Origins: The 855th Engineer Battalion is a unit in the Army Reserve, with its lineage dating back to the mid-20th century, primarily organized to provide combat engineering support. • Location: The battalion is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, and has had subordinate companies in various parts of the state. • Desert Storm Deployment: Elements of the 855th Engineer Battalion were mobilized and deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, contributing to construction and demolition missions in the Persian Gulf. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The battalion deployed to Iraq in the mid-2000s, where it performed route clearance, construction, and infrastructure rebuilding tasks under hostile conditions. • Disaster Relief: The 855th has participated in domestic disaster relief missions, including efforts after major wildfires and floods in Arizona and neighboring states. • Training Excellence: The unit is known for its rigorous annual training exercises, often collaborating with local and federal agencies to build bridges, repair roads, and improve community infrastructure. • Women in Leadership: The 855th was among the early Reserve units in Arizona to have women serve in command roles, reflecting the evolving inclusiveness of the U.S. Army. • Decorations: The battalion’s companies and soldiers have been awarded numerous commendations, including Army Achievement Medals and Meritorious Unit Citations, for outstanding service domestically and abroad. • Community Engagement: The 855th regularly supports local events such as Veterans Day parades and educational outreach in Arizona schools, fostering strong community ties. • Modernization: In recent years, the battalion has modernized its equipment, including the integration of advanced construction vehicles and engineering tools, ensuring readiness for both military and humanitarian operations.