David Schroeder

The 44th Engineer Battalion, originally constituted in 1917, has a distinguished history of providing combat engineering support to U.S. Army operations. Activated for World War II, the battalion participated in key campaigns throughout the Pacific Theater, including New Guinea and Luzon, earning numerous commendations for its service. During the Korean War, the unit was instrumental in constructing bridges, clearing minefields, and supporting frontline troops under fire, solidifying its reputation for bravery and technical expertise. In recent years, the 44th Engineer Battalion has deployed in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, continuing its legacy of excellence in combat engineering and construction missions worldwide.

The 35th Infantry Division, known as the "Santa Fe Division," was formed in 1917 and first saw combat in World War I, participating in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Reconstituted during World War II, the division landed in Normandy in July 1944 and fought through France, Belgium, and Germany, earning a reputation for tenacity in battles such as the Battle of Saint-Lô and the Battle of the Bulge. After the war, it became part of the Army National Guard, with units based in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. The division has since supported peacekeeping and homeland missions, including deployments to Bosnia and Iraq in the 21st century.

The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States military that operates under the dual control of the state and federal government. Its primary mission is to provide support during domestic emergencies and disasters, such as natural disasters or civil unrest. National Guard members can also be called up for deployment overseas to support regular military operations. The National Guard is made up of both Army National Guard and Air National Guard units, with members serving part-time while maintaining civilian careers.

Company C, 1st Battalion, 134th Mechanized Infantry (Co C, 1-134 MECH INF) is a unit with roots in the Army National Guard. Historically, the 134th Infantry Regiment traces its lineage to Nebraska units that served with distinction in World War II, including combat in Europe as part of the 35th Infantry Division. During the Cold War, the 1-134th transitioned to a mechanized infantry role, training with armored vehicles such as the M113 APC and later the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. Company C participated in numerous state and federal missions, including overseas deployments in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, where its soldiers earned recognition for their professionalism and dedication. The unit continues to serve as a vital component of the National Guard, ready to support both state and federal missions.

20th Engineer Brigade

U.S. Army

The 20th Engineer Brigade is a combat engineer unit in the United States Army. They are responsible for providing engineer support in both peacetime and wartime operations, including construction, demolition, and obstacle clearance. The brigade is unique in that it is one of only two active duty engineer brigades in the Army. They have a long history of deploying to support various operations around the world, including Iraq and Afghanistan.

The 46th Engineer Battalion was first constituted on December 7, 1917, as part of the National Army and served in France during World War I. Reactivated for World War II, the battalion participated in critical campaigns including the Normandy landings and the subsequent advance across Europe, providing essential engineer support for Allied forces. In the decades following, the 46th Engineer Battalion took part in major operations during the Vietnam War and later contributed to missions in the Middle East, including Operation Iraqi Freedom. Throughout its history, the battalion has earned numerous commendations for its technical expertise and dedication to supporting combat operations worldwide.