NMCB 3

• Founding Date: Naval Mobile Construction Battalion THREE (NMCB 3), also known as the "Better Than Best" Battalion, was first commissioned on June 23, 1942, during World War II. • World War II Service: NMCB 3 played a vital role in the Pacific Theater, constructing airfields, roads, and bases on Guadalcanal, Bougainville, and other critical locations under combat conditions. • Historic Construction: The battalion was responsible for building Henderson Field on Guadalcanal, a key airfield that helped turn the tide in the Pacific during WWII. • Vietnam War Deployments: NMCB 3 deployed multiple times to Vietnam in the 1960s and 1970s, constructing bases, roads, and defensive positions for US and allied forces. • Humanitarian Missions: The battalion has supported humanitarian missions worldwide, providing disaster relief and infrastructure rebuilding after tsunamis, typhoons, and earthquakes. • Nickname Origin: The battalion’s motto and nickname, "Better Than Best," reflects their tradition of excellence and high standards in Seabee operations. • Modern Deployments: In recent decades, NMCB 3 has deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, constructing forward operating bases and improving infrastructure. • Presidential Unit Citation: NMCB 3 has received the Presidential Unit Citation for outstanding heroism and extraordinary performance during combat operations. • Female Seabees: In the 1990s, NMCB 3 was among the first battalions to integrate female Seabees into its ranks, reflecting the evolving role of women in the Navy. • Homeport: NMCB 3 is based at Naval Base Ventura County, Port Hueneme, California, which is known as the "Home of the Seabees."