About this Unit
Underwater Construction Team TWO (UCT TWO) is a specialized unit of the U.S. Navy’s Seabee community, established in 1974 and based at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia. The team’s primary mission is to provide underwater construction, inspection, repair, and demolition capabilities in support of naval and joint operations worldwide. UCT TWO has deployed to diverse locations, including the Middle East, the Pacific, and disaster-stricken regions, supporting both combat and humanitarian missions. Over its history, the unit has played a crucial role in maintaining and restoring critical maritime infrastructure under challenging and often hazardous conditions.
Historical Facts
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Origins in World War II: The roots of Underwater Construction Team 2 (UCT 2) can be traced back to the Navy’s WWII Seabees and Naval Combat Demolition Units, which pioneered underwater demolition and construction techniques.
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Commissioned in 1974: UCT 2 was officially commissioned on April 30, 1974, in Port Hueneme, California, to provide specialized underwater construction, repair, and inspection capabilities for the U.S. Navy.
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Homeport in Virginia: UCT 2 is headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia Beach, Virginia, serving as the East Coast counterpart to UCT 1.
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Global Reach: UCT 2 has deployed to dozens of countries worldwide, supporting Navy and joint operations from the Arctic to the South Pacific, often constructing and repairing piers, bridges, and underwater infrastructure in remote or hostile environments.
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Post-9/11 Operations: After the September 11 attacks, UCT 2 played a vital role in inspecting and repairing critical infrastructure at U.S. naval bases and in overseas contingency operations, including the Middle East.
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Hurricane & Disaster Response: UCT 2 has provided rapid disaster response after hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005, helping to restore port operations and critical infrastructure along the Gulf Coast.
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Specialized Equipment: Members of UCT 2 are trained in using advanced underwater tools, such as hydraulic chainsaws, underwater welding and cutting gear, and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
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Joint and Allied Training: UCT 2 regularly conducts joint exercises with Army, Marine Corps, and allied foreign military engineers, enhancing interoperability and sharing expertise in underwater construction.
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Humanitarian Missions: The unit has contributed to humanitarian projects such as building and repairing schools, wells, and docks in developing nations, supporting U.S. diplomatic and goodwill efforts.
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Motto and Nickname: UCT 2’s motto is “We Build, We Fight, Underwater,” reflecting their unique blend of Seabee construction skills and combat readiness. They are also known as “Seabee Divers.”
