NMCB 13

• 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. • “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. • Normandy Invasion: Members of NMCB 13 participated in the D-Day landings, constructing critical infrastructure on Utah Beach to support the Allied advance. • 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. • Vietnam War Service: Recommissioned in the 1960s, NMCB 13 deployed to Vietnam, constructing bases, airfields, and roads under hazardous combat conditions. • Humanitarian Missions: NMCB 13 has supported multiple disaster relief operations, from hurricane recovery in the United States to tsunami response in Southeast Asia. • Reserve Battalion: Unlike many active-duty Seabee units, NMCB 13 has operated primarily as a Reserve battalion, drawing its strength from citizen-sailors. • Innovative Engineering: The battalion has a reputation for engineering ingenuity, notably constructing advanced pontoon bridges and field hospitals in austere environments. • 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. • 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.