About this Unit
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion ONE (NMCB-1), known as the "First and the Finest," was originally commissioned in 1942 during World War II as part of the U.S. Navy Seabees. The unit played a critical role in constructing bases, airfields, and other vital infrastructure in the Pacific Theater, supporting major operations such as those in Guadalcanal and Okinawa. Since World War II, NMCB-1 has deployed globally, participating in operations and humanitarian missions in Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East, and disaster relief efforts worldwide. Today, NMCB-1 remains an essential component of the Naval Construction Force, continuing its legacy of readiness and excellence in both combat and peacetime operations.
Historical Facts
•
Establishment during World War II: Naval Mobile Construction Battalion ONE (NMCB-1) was originally commissioned as the 1st Naval Construction Battalion on March 15, 1942, at Camp Allen, Virginia, becoming one of the first units of the famed "Seabees."
•
Pacific Theater Service: During WWII, NMCB-1 deployed to the Pacific, constructing airfields, bases, and infrastructure on islands such as Espiritu Santo, Guadalcanal, and Okinawa, often under enemy fire.
•
First Seabee to Receive the Medal of Honor: Marvin Shields, a member of NMCB-11 who worked closely with NMCB-1 in Vietnam, was the first (and only) Seabee to receive the Medal of Honor, highlighting the bravery of Seabees in combat.
•
First Vietnam Deployment: NMCB-1 was among the first Seabee units deployed to Vietnam in 1965, where they built bases, airfields, roads, and critical infrastructure for U.S. and allied forces.
•
Hurricane Relief: In 1969, after Hurricane Camille struck the Gulf Coast, NMCB-1 provided vital disaster relief, rebuilding infrastructure and providing humanitarian assistance.
•
Cold War Deployments: NMCB-1 operated in various locations during the Cold War, including Spain, Greece, Iceland, and Puerto Rico, supporting U.S. Navy and NATO operations with construction and engineering expertise.
•
Gulf War Support: During Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990-91, NMCB-1 constructed camps, airfields, and facilities in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, supporting coalition operations.
•
Humanitarian Missions: NMCB-1 has participated in numerous humanitarian missions, including building schools and clinics in Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean, showcasing the Seabees’ motto, “We Build, We Fight.”
•
Global War on Terror: NMCB-1 deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan multiple times after 9/11, constructing forward operating bases, repairing runways, and supporting combat operations.
•
Unit Awards and Recognition: NMCB-1 has received numerous awards, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Battle “E” Efficiency Award, recognizing their excellence, professionalism, and dedication in both combat and peacetime operations.
