About this Unit
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 (MCB-133), also known as the "Runnin' Roos," was commissioned on February 17, 1944, during World War II as part of the U.S. Navy Seabees. The battalion played a crucial role in constructing airfields, bases, and infrastructure across the Pacific theater, including operations in Guam and Okinawa. In the decades following WWII, MCB-133 participated in numerous deployments during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, supporting both combat and humanitarian missions. The unit continued to serve in peacetime operations, disaster relief, and overseas contingency deployments until its decommissioning in 2005.
Historical Facts
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Commissioned in 1943: Mobile Construction Battalion 133 (MCB-133), also known as "Seabees," was commissioned on August 20, 1943, during World War II.
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Nickname "The Runnin’ Roos": MCB-133 adopted the kangaroo as their mascot, earning them the nickname "Runnin’ Roos."
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World War II Service: The battalion was deployed to the Pacific Theater, participating in construction projects critical to the island-hopping campaign, including work in the Mariana Islands.
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Korean War Deployments: During the Korean War, MCB-133 was reactivated and supported United Nations operations, building airfields, roads, and base infrastructure.
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Vietnam War Operations: The unit played a significant role in Vietnam, constructing bases, hospitals, and airfields under hazardous conditions, often working under enemy fire.
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Disaster Relief Missions: Over the decades, MCB-133 has responded to numerous natural disasters, providing engineering and humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of hurricanes and earthquakes.
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Gulf War Participation: Elements of MCB-133 supported Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, building camps, roads, and logistical facilities in the Persian Gulf region.
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Global Deployments: The battalion has served on six continents, demonstrating the Seabees' motto "We Build, We Fight" in locations ranging from the Arctic to Africa.
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Innovative Construction Techniques: MCB-133 has pioneered rapid construction methods, including pre-fabricated structures and modular base setups, improving the speed and efficiency of military engineering operations.
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Active to Present Day: MCB-133 remains an active Naval Construction Battalion, with a homeport at Naval Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, Mississippi, continuing its tradition of excellence in military construction and humanitarian service.
