About this Unit
Amphibious Construction Battalion TWO (ACB 2), also known as "The Atlantic Battalion," was established in 1943 to provide critical ship-to-shore logistics and engineering support for amphibious operations during World War II. Over the decades, ACB 2 has played a vital role in major conflicts and humanitarian missions, including support during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and various operations in the Middle East. The unit specializes in constructing, operating, and maintaining expeditionary port facilities and causeways, enabling rapid deployment and sustainment of naval and joint forces. Today, ACB 2 continues its legacy as a key component of the U.S. Navy's Seabees, supporting both combat and disaster relief missions worldwide.
Historical Facts
• Origins in World War II: Amphibious Construction Battalion TWO (ACB 2) was commissioned in 1943, playing a vital role in constructing and maintaining beachheads during amphibious invasions in the Pacific Theater.
• Nickname “ACEY DEUCEY”: The battalion is affectionately known as “ACEY DEUCEY,” a nod to its unit number and a popular Navy card game.
• First in Normandy: ACB 2 was part of the forces that landed on Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion, contributing to the rapid construction of pontoon causeways for landing troops and supplies.
• Innovators of Pontoon Technology: The unit was instrumental in developing and deploying the Navy’s pontoon systems, which allowed for rapid unloading of men and material onto hostile or undeveloped shores.
• Vietnam War Support: During the Vietnam War, ACB 2 built and maintained piers, bridges, and logistics support bases, enabling swift movement of supplies to combat zones.
• Disaster Relief Missions: Beyond combat, ACB 2 has frequently supported humanitarian missions, including rebuilding efforts after hurricanes and natural disasters in the United States and abroad.
• Homeport at Little Creek: ACB 2 is based at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia, a hub for Navy amphibious operations on the East Coast.
• Rapid Deployment Capability: The battalion is trained to deploy anywhere in the world within 96 hours, making it one of the Navy’s most flexible construction forces.
• Support to NASA: ACB 2 divers and construction teams have assisted NASA with recovery operations for space capsules as part of splashdown missions in the Atlantic Ocean.
• Legacy of Valor: Members of ACB 2 have received numerous commendations and awards for heroism and excellence, including the Navy Unit Commendation for their service in both combat and peacetime operations.
