About this Unit
Bravo Company, 79th Engineer Battalion (B Co, 79th EN BN) has a storied legacy within the U.S. Army’s engineer branch. Originally constituted during World War II, the 79th Engineer Battalion provided critical combat engineering support in both the European and Pacific Theaters, including construction, demolition, and bridging operations under fire. In subsequent decades, B Company participated in key operations during the Cold War, Vietnam, and modern conflicts, supporting mobility and survivability for U.S. and allied forces. Today, Bco 79th Engineer Battalion continues its tradition of excellence, focusing on combat engineering and construction missions at home and abroad.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The 79th Engineer Battalion was originally constituted during World War II as part of the U.S. Army's efforts to support combat operations with essential engineering capabilities.
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Role in Construction: B Company (Bco), like others in the battalion, has historically specialized in horizontal and vertical construction projects, including building roads, bridges, and airfields in combat zones and during peacetime missions.
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Vietnam War Service: The 79th Engineer Battalion and its subordinate companies, including Bco, were deployed to Vietnam, where they supported operations by constructing and maintaining critical infrastructure under hazardous conditions.
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Cold War Assignments: During the Cold War, Bco 79th Engineer Battalion was stationed in various locations, including Germany, as part of the U.S. military’s commitment to NATO and European defense.
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Humanitarian Missions: Members of Bco 79th Engineers have participated in humanitarian and disaster relief operations, providing engineering support during floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia features a castle, symbolizing the engineering mission, and the motto "Constructio Et Destructio," Latin for "Construction and Destruction."
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Reactivation and Deactivation: The battalion and its companies, including Bco, have undergone periods of inactivation and reactivation as Army needs and organizational structures have changed.
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Training New Engineers: Bco 79th Engineer Battalion has played a role in training and developing new Army engineers, both in the United States and abroad.
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Support in Iraq and Afghanistan: Elements of the battalion, including Bco, were deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, aiding in construction and route clearance missions.
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Decorations and Honors: The 79th Engineer Battalion and its subordinate units have received multiple awards, including campaign streamers and unit commendations, for their service in multiple conflicts and operations.
