About this Unit
The 1st Engineer Battalion (1st Eng Bn), part of the 1st Marine Division (1st Mar Div), is one of the oldest and most storied engineer units in the United States Marine Corps. Activated in 1941, the battalion played a crucial role in World War II, supporting amphibious assaults across the Pacific, including at Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. The unit continued its distinguished service during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, providing combat engineering, mobility, and survivability support. In recent decades, the 1st Eng Bn has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, adapting to modern challenges while upholding its legacy of engineering excellence and battlefield support.
Historical Facts
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Oldest Engineer Battalion: The 1st Engineer Battalion is the oldest continuously serving engineer unit in the United States Army, originally constituted in 1846 as the "Company of Sappers, Miners, and Pontoniers."
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Mexican-American War Roots: The battalion was first organized to support General Winfield Scott’s campaign during the Mexican-American War, playing a crucial role in the siege of Veracruz.
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Civil War Service: During the American Civil War, the unit constructed vital bridges, roads, and fortifications, often under direct fire, including at Fredericksburg and Gettysburg.
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Normandy Landings: The 1st Engineer Battalion participated in the D-Day invasion, clearing obstacles and mines on Omaha Beach to enable the advance of infantry and armor.
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Korean War Actions: The unit earned several campaign streamers in Korea, including for the defense of the Pusan Perimeter and the breakout from the Chosin Reservoir.
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Vietnam War Operations: The battalion conducted extensive route clearance, minefield removal, and construction projects, often in hazardous conditions, supporting the 1st Infantry Division.
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Gulf War Participation: The 1st Engineer Battalion played a key role in breaching Iraqi defensive lines during Operation Desert Storm, using specialized equipment to clear mines and obstacles.
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Nickname “First Bastion”: The battalion is known as the “First Bastion,” reflecting its legacy as the first line of defense and support for maneuver units.
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Decorations and Honors: The unit has received numerous awards, including Presidential Unit Citations and the French Croix de Guerre, for its distinguished service in multiple conflicts.
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Modern Deployments: In recent years, the 1st Engineer Battalion has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, conducting route clearance, construction, and counter-IED operations in support of coalition forces.
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*Note: "1st Eng Bn, 1st Nar Div" is interpreted as "1st Engineer Battalion, 1st Infantry Division" (also known as "The Big Red One"), as there is no widely recognized "1st Nar Div" in U.S. Army history.*
