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ABOUT 3rd Engineer Battalion
- Origins in the Mexican-American War: The 3rd Engineer Battalion traces its roots to the Company C, U.S. Engineer Battalion, formally constituted in 1846 to support operations during the Mexican-American War.
- Civil War Service: The battalion participated in notable Civil War campaigns, including the Battle of Gettysburg, serving as part of the Army of the Potomac and constructing critical bridges and fortifications.
- World War I Deployment: Reorganized and redesignated in 1917, the 3rd Engineers deployed to France as part of the 3rd Division, earning distinction at the Second Battle of the Marne.
- Decorated in World War II: The battalion played a key role in the North African, Sicilian, and Italian campaigns, constructing vital infrastructure under fire and receiving multiple unit citations.
- Amphibious Landings: 3rd Engineers participated in amphibious assaults in Sicily and Salerno, often being among the first ashore to clear obstacles and mines for follow-on forces.
- Korean War Actions: The battalion supported the 3rd Infantry Division, building roads and bridges across rugged terrain, and often engaging enemy forces directly during the Korean War.
- Vietnam War Service: Between 1966 and 1970, the 3rd Engineer Battalion operated in Vietnam, conducting route clearance, base construction, and direct combat support missions.
- Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, the battalion has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting combat operations, route clearance, and reconstruction efforts.
- Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s distinctive unit insignia features a castle and a fleur-de-lis, symbolizing their engineering mission and service in France during World War I.
- Motto: The 3rd Engineer Battalion’s motto, “Fortes Fortuna Juvat” (“Fortune Favors the Brave”), reflects its long history of courage and battlefield innovation.