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ABOUT 79th Engineer Group Hq Vietnam
- Formation and Activation: The 79th Engineer Group was activated in 1966, specifically to provide engineering and construction support during the Vietnam War.
- Primary Mission: The group's main role in Vietnam was to oversee the construction, maintenance, and improvement of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, airfields, and bases supporting US and allied operations.
- Headquarters Location: The headquarters of the 79th Engineer Group was based at Long Binh Post, which was one of the largest US military installations in South Vietnam.
- Major Projects: The unit participated in major engineering projects, including the construction of the Long Binh Ammunition Depot and upgrades to key supply routes like QL-1 (Highway 1).
- Subordinate Units: The group commanded several engineer battalions, including the 31st, 84th, 168th, 169th, and 554th Engineer Battalions, which spread across southern Vietnam.
- Combat Support: In addition to construction, the 79th Engineer Group provided vital combat engineering support, such as clearing land mines and constructing defensive fortifications during the Tet Offensive and other major operations.
- Award Recognition: The group and its subordinate units earned numerous commendations, including Meritorious Unit Commendations for their service and achievements.
- Humanitarian Projects: The engineers often worked on civil actions such as building schools, wells, and clinics to improve relations with the local Vietnamese population.
- Casualties and Sacrifice: Members of the 79th Engineer Group faced frequent dangers from enemy attacks, mines, and booby traps, resulting in casualties during their deployments.
- Legacy and Inactivation: After significant contributions to the war effort, the group’s headquarters was inactivated in Vietnam in 1971. The legacy of their work remains in surviving infrastructure and the experiences of veterans who served.