About this Unit
The Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB), commonly known as the "Seabees," was officially established during World War II in 1942 to provide the U.S. Navy with a dedicated construction force capable of building advanced bases, airfields, and infrastructure in combat zones. NMCB units quickly gained a reputation for their motto, "We Build, We Fight," as they constructed vital facilities under hazardous conditions in the Pacific and European theaters. Throughout the Korean and Vietnam Wars, NMCBs continued to play a critical role, building roads, airstrips, and bases while often coming under enemy fire. In the decades since, NMCB units have been deployed worldwide for both military and humanitarian missions, maintaining their legacy as versatile engineers and builders within the U.S. Navy.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: The Naval Mobile Construction Battalions (NMCBs), also known as the Seabees, were established in March 1942 to meet the Navy’s urgent need for combat-ready construction units during World War II.
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Nickname "Seabees": The name “Seabee” comes from the initials “C.B.” for “Construction Battalion.” The Seabee motto is “We Build, We Fight.”
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Combat Construction: NMCBs are unique in that their members are trained both in construction and combat skills, enabling them to build in active war zones under fire.
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Iconic Bee Logo: The Seabees’ mascot is a fighting bee wielding a hammer, wrench, and machine gun—symbolizing their dual role as builders and fighters.
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Pacific Campaigns: During WWII, Seabees constructed airstrips, bases, and roads on islands across the Pacific, including Iwo Jima, Okinawa, and Guadalcanal, often under enemy fire.
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Vietnam War Contributions: NMCBs built bases, roads, and hospitals throughout Vietnam, supporting both U.S. and allied forces and earning numerous commendations for their service.
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Disaster Relief: Seabees have provided crucial humanitarian assistance after natural disasters, including Hurricane Katrina, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
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“Can Do” Spirit: The Seabee motto, “Can Do,” reflects their reputation for overcoming obstacles and completing missions in some of the world’s toughest environments.
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First Female Seabees: In 1972, the first women were integrated into the Seabees, and today NMCBs include both male and female sailors in all roles.
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Modern Deployments: NMCBs continue to serve globally, supporting military operations and building infrastructure in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, and throughout the Pacific and Africa.
