An American soldier

“We Build, We Fight.”

Petty officer William H. Harris Jr. in U.S. Navy uniform with Seabees insignia — U.S. Navy — Construction Battalions

Mr. Harris was a Seabee during WWII and, as you can see from his stripes, he was an achiever even then. The long legacy of this unique military force — best described by its slogan, “We Build, We Fight” — began in 1867 when the Civil Engineer Corps was founded. For 75 years the CEC directed the efforts of civil service employees and civilian construction contractors in meeting the Navy's requirements for facilities ashore. In 1942, when the need arose for a construction force in uniform capable of defending itself in a war zone, the Seabees were created, led by the CEC.

A Vital Purpose

With a primary mission of providing continuing construction in a war zone, the Seabees are ready to deploy on short notice to any point on the globe. Upon arrival, they work night and day:

Establishing an initial presence
Constructing airfields
Building facilities
Constructing roads
Providing basic needs — water, power, sanitation, etc.
Providing support services