About this Unit
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 71 (MCB-71), known as the "Ragin' Seabees," was commissioned in 1966 as part of the U.S. Navy Seabees. The battalion played a significant role during the Vietnam War, constructing bases, airfields, roads, and other vital infrastructure under combat conditions. After Vietnam, MCB-71 continued to support U.S. military operations worldwide, including deployments to the Mediterranean, the Arctic, and the Caribbean, contributing to both military readiness and humanitarian missions. The unit was decommissioned in 1994, leaving behind a legacy of engineering excellence and service.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Early Years: Mobile Construction Battalion 71 (MCB-71), known as "Seabees," was officially commissioned on March 1, 1967, at Davisville, Rhode Island.
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Vietnam War Service: MCB-71 deployed to Vietnam multiple times, building airfields, roads, and support infrastructure for U.S. and allied forces, often working under dangerous conditions and enemy fire.
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Nickname – “The Bad News Bees”: MCB-71 earned the nickname "The Bad News Bees" due to their reputation for taking on tough assignments and completing them successfully.
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Combat Action: During their time in Vietnam, MCB-71 personnel frequently came under mortar and rocket attacks, and several Seabees from the unit received commendations for bravery.
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Humanitarian Projects: Beyond military construction, MCB-71 built schools, hospitals, and water systems in local Vietnamese communities, fostering goodwill and supporting civil affairs missions.
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Arctic Operations: MCB-71 was deployed to the Arctic Circle for Project Ice Skate and other cold-weather operations, constructing facilities under extreme conditions.
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Caribbean Deployments: The battalion also operated in the Caribbean, supporting U.S. Navy bases and participating in disaster relief efforts after hurricanes and other natural disasters.
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End of Service: MCB-71 was decommissioned in the late 1980s, but its legacy lives on through the accomplishments of its Seabees and their contributions to military engineering.
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Decorations and Awards: The unit received several unit citations and commendations, including the Navy Unit Commendation, for exceptional service in both combat and peacetime operations.
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Seabee Motto: Like all Seabee units, MCB-71 proudly lived by the motto "Can Do," exemplifying adaptability, ingenuity, and teamwork in every mission.
