About this Unit
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 18 (NMCB 18), known as the "Desert Battalion," is a unit of the United States Navy Reserve Seabees. Established during World War II, NMCB 18 originally supported construction and engineering operations in the Pacific Theater, contributing to vital airfields, bases, and infrastructure. Reactivated in the postwar era, the battalion has since participated in numerous missions, including operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing expeditionary construction and humanitarian assistance. Today, NMCB 18 continues to support both combat and peacetime operations around the world, exemplifying the Seabee motto: "We Build, We Fight."
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Eighteen (NMCB 18) was originally activated during World War II as part of the famed “Seabees,” the U.S. Navy’s Construction Battalions.
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Pacific Theater Service: NMCB 18 participated in crucial construction operations across the Pacific, including building airstrips, roads, and support facilities for Allied advances against Japanese forces.
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Deactivation and Reactivation: After World War II, the battalion was deactivated but was later reconstituted as a Reserve unit during the Cold War, reflecting its ongoing strategic importance.
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Cold War Contributions: During the Cold War, NMCB 18 was involved in readiness exercises and construction projects vital to national defense, both domestically and overseas.
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Humanitarian Missions: Members of NMCB 18 have participated in disaster relief operations, such as rebuilding infrastructure after hurricanes and earthquakes, exemplifying the Seabees’ “Can Do” spirit.
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Global War on Terror Deployments: Since 2001, NMCB 18 has deployed personnel to Afghanistan, Iraq, and other locations in support of U.S. and allied operations, building bases, roads, and vital facilities under combat conditions.
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Innovative Engineering: The battalion is known for rapid construction techniques, including the ability to build airfields and bridges in record time under difficult circumstances.
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Community Projects: NMCB 18 has supported numerous civic action projects, such as constructing schools, clinics, and water wells in developing nations, enhancing U.S. goodwill abroad.
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Reservist Excellence: As a Reserve unit, NMCB 18 draws on civilian expertise—many members are skilled engineers, electricians, and builders in their civilian lives, which strengthens the battalion’s capabilities.
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Motto and Legacy: Like all Seabees, NMCB 18 lives by the motto “We Build, We Fight.” Their rich history embodies the adaptability, resilience, and dedication of America’s military construction forces.
