About this Unit
**Beachmaster Unit TWO (BMU-2)** is a United States Navy expeditionary unit established in 1949 and based at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia. Its primary mission is to provide beach control and support for amphibious landings, ensuring the seamless movement of troops, vehicles, and supplies from sea to shore. BMU-2 has played a key role in major military operations and humanitarian missions, including support during the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, and disaster relief efforts worldwide. The unit continues to serve as a critical link between naval forces and the shore, maintaining readiness for rapid deployment in support of U.S. and allied operations.
Historical Facts
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Origins: Beachmaster Unit TWO (BMU-2) was commissioned in 1949 at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia, to support amphibious landings and operations on the Atlantic coastline.
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Primary Mission: BMU-2's main mission is to control beach and surf zone movement of troops, vehicles, and cargo during amphibious assaults—essentially orchestrating the chaos of landing operations.
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Nickname: Members of BMU-2 are affectionately known as "Beachmasters," reflecting their expertise in managing complex operations at the shore interface.
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Distinctive Patch: The unit's patch features a seahorse, symbolizing agility and adaptability in maritime environments.
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Role in D-Day Commemorations: While BMU-2 was not present at Normandy (it formed after WWII), the unit regularly participates in commemorative events, honoring its WWII predecessors in the Naval Beach Group.
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Hurricane Relief: BMU-2 has provided disaster relief during multiple hurricanes, including the response to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, where they helped coordinate the movement of supplies and personnel ashore.
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Deployments: The unit has deployed worldwide, including to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Middle East, supporting operations from peacetime exercises to real-world contingencies.
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Landing Craft Control: BMU-2 personnel use signal flags, radios, and even hand signals to guide landing craft safely to the beach, ensuring troops and equipment arrive in the right place at the right time.
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Joint Operations: BMU-2 frequently works with U.S. Marine Corps, Army, and allied forces, showcasing interoperability during large-scale amphibious exercises such as Bold Alligator and Trident Juncture.
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Women in BMU-2: The unit has been at the forefront of integrating women into amphibious operations, with female Beachmasters serving in key leadership and operational roles.
