About this Unit
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 13 (NMCB 13), known as the "Lucky 13," is a unit of the United States Navy Seabees. Established during World War II in 1942, the battalion played a vital role in constructing airfields, bases, and infrastructure throughout the Pacific Theater, supporting Allied operations. After deactivation post-war, NMCB 13 was reactivated as a Reserve unit in 1968, contributing to both military and humanitarian missions worldwide. Today, NMCB 13 continues to provide critical construction and engineering support to Navy and joint forces, upholding the Seabee motto, "We Build, We Fight."
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: NMCB 13, known as Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 13 (Seabees), was first commissioned in 1942 during World War II, playing a vital role in the Pacific Theater.
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“Can Do” Spirit: Like all Seabee units, NMCB 13 adopted the Seabee motto “We Build, We Fight,” exemplifying their dual capability as both builders and combat troops.
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Normandy Invasion: Members of NMCB 13 participated in the D-Day landings, constructing critical infrastructure on Utah Beach to support the Allied advance.
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Cuban Missile Crisis: In 1962, NMCB 13 was called upon during the Cuban Missile Crisis, helping to construct airfields and defensive positions in the Caribbean.
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Vietnam War Service: Recommissioned in the 1960s, NMCB 13 deployed to Vietnam, constructing bases, airfields, and roads under hazardous combat conditions.
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Humanitarian Missions: NMCB 13 has supported multiple disaster relief operations, from hurricane recovery in the United States to tsunami response in Southeast Asia.
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Reserve Battalion: Unlike many active-duty Seabee units, NMCB 13 has operated primarily as a Reserve battalion, drawing its strength from citizen-sailors.
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Innovative Engineering: The battalion has a reputation for engineering ingenuity, notably constructing advanced pontoon bridges and field hospitals in austere environments.
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Global Deployments: NMCB 13 has served in locations around the world, including the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Pacific, supporting both combat and peacekeeping operations.
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Community Outreach: The battalion is known for its community service, regularly participating in “Seabee Days” and public works projects in local communities across the United States.
