About this Unit
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 23 (NMCB-23), known as the "Seabees," is a reserve battalion of the United States Navy Civil Engineer Corps. Established during World War II, NMCB-23 played a critical role in constructing airfields, bases, and infrastructure in the Pacific Theater. Over the decades, the battalion has deployed in support of numerous operations, including humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and contingency construction missions around the globe. NMCB-23 continues to serve as a vital component of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, providing construction and engineering support wherever needed.
Historical Facts
•
Origins in World War II: NMCB-23, originally known as the 123rd Naval Construction Battalion, was commissioned in 1942 during World War II to support the United States Navy's construction and engineering needs in the Pacific Theater.
•
Nickname "The Island Hoppers": The unit earned the nickname "Island Hoppers" due to their extensive involvement in constructing airstrips, roads, and bases on multiple Pacific islands throughout WWII.
•
Okinawa Campaign: NMCB-23 played a crucial role in the 1945 Battle of Okinawa by building airfields, supply depots, and supporting infrastructure under hostile conditions.
•
Deactivation and Reactivation: The battalion was deactivated after WWII but was later reactivated as a Reserve unit, reflecting the changing needs of the Navy during the Cold War and beyond.
•
Cold War Contributions: During the Cold War, NMCB-23 participated in numerous training exercises and readiness operations, supporting U.S. military preparedness worldwide.
•
Global Humanitarian Missions: The battalion has taken part in disaster relief and humanitarian missions, including rebuilding efforts after hurricanes and earthquakes in the Caribbean and Central America.
•
Desert Shield/Desert Storm: Elements of NMCB-23 were mobilized during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the early 1990s, contributing to construction and logistical operations in the Middle East.
•
Support to Global War on Terrorism: After 9/11, NMCB-23 deployed personnel to support operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, building vital infrastructure for coalition forces.
•
Reserve Seabees: As a Reserve unit, NMCB-23 is made up of both civilian professionals and former active-duty Seabees, who bring diverse skills to their military construction missions.
•
Legacy of Service: NMCB-23's history is marked by its adaptability, professionalism, and commitment to the Seabee motto, "We Build, We Fight," serving both in combat zones and during peacetime operations.
