NMCB-58

• Origins and Nickname: Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 58 (NMCB-58), known as the “Steelworkers,” was first commissioned in 1966 in Gulfport, Mississippi. • Vietnam War Service: NMCB-58 deployed to Vietnam during the height of the war, constructing airfields, roads, and base camps while enduring frequent enemy attacks. • Combat Action in Hue: During the 1968 Tet Offensive, NMCB-58 personnel participated in the defense and rebuilding of the city of Hue, gaining recognition for their bravery under fire. • Humanitarian Missions: The unit contributed to disaster relief, notably responding to hurricanes and typhoons in the Pacific and Caribbean, showcasing the Seabees’ “Can Do!” spirit. • Cold War Deployments: Throughout the Cold War, NMCB-58 constructed critical infrastructure at U.S. bases in Spain, Italy, and Diego Garcia, supporting naval operations worldwide. • Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm: In 1990-1991, NMCB-58 deployed to the Middle East, building camps and facilities for Coalition forces during the Gulf War. • Bosnia and Kosovo Support: The unit participated in NATO operations in the Balkans, constructing refugee camps and repairing infrastructure in war-torn regions. • Construction Expertise: NMCB-58 specialized in rapid runway repair, bridge building, and base construction—skills critical to expeditionary and combat engineering missions. • Decommissioning: NMCB-58 was officially decommissioned in 2005, with its legacy carried forward by other active Seabee units. • Unit Awards: Over its history, NMCB-58 earned multiple commendations, including the Navy Unit Commendation and the Meritorious Unit Commendation, for outstanding service in both combat and peacetime operations.