Navy Seabees History

The Navy Seabees are the construction battalion of the Navy; these units live with a can-do attitude and their "We Build, We Fight" creed. These battalions are normally the first to arrive, and it is their job to construct bases, roads, runways and other needed infrastructure. These military units are both builders and fighters, and are known for their ingenuity and creativity in solving problems, and getting the job done ahead of time. The Navy Seabees have been in existence for more than 60 years, and these military members have a long and proud history of serving their country in every way asked.

History of the Organization

The Navy Seabees, or Construction Battalions, were first created during World War II. Almost 350,000 Seabees served during this war, and members of these units were recruited from the civilian construction sector. Many of the earliest Seabees were older than the general Navy member, at 37 years of age. The very first Seabees were sent to the island of Bora Bora, where the battalions were instructed to build a base as quickly as possible because the Japanese were on their way. Since that time, these units have been sent all around the world, including the Middle East and other hot spots.

Significance

Without the Navy Seabees, much of the construction that has occurred around the world in times of both war and peace would not have been possible. These units are responsible for roads, schools, hospitals, other infrastructure, meals and much more. Many times these units are the first or second group to reach the specific area, and their attitude has been credited with the completion of projects within a time frame that many said were impossible. These battalions are filled with builders who are also fighters--making them even more invaluable.

Interesting Facts

Three Seabee battalions built an airstrip during World War II in just 11 short days, and within this time frame, the airstrip was not only built, but put into operation. The first Seabee battalions were actually called the Bobcats; it was only later that the name Seabee was put in use because of the initials of the battalions, and the fact that they are part of the Navy. In the Philippines, the Seabees started with a site that was thick virgin jungle, and created Fleet Hospital with 3,000 beds.

Famous Seabees

One of the most famous Seabees of all time, even though the character is fictional, is one played by John Wayne. Another famous Seabee who is real is Petty Officer Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Marvin G. Shields. Shields was in command of Seabee Team 1104, and the unit was building a compound at Dong Xoai on June 10, 1965 when a Vietcong regiment attacked. In the battle, two men were killed, and seven were wounded. Petty Officer Shields died in the battle, but received the Medal of Honor after his death for losing his life to carry a wounded comrade to safety, and then destroying the enemy machine gun.

The Seabees Today

Today, the Navy Seabee is perceived as more of an ambassador of good will. Units act as civic action teams as well as builders and fighters, and often are used in public works projects in developing countries and war torn areas. The can-do spirit is still alive and well, and it is frequently used for peaceful projects that better the lives of the inhabitants in the area. During Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as the conflicts in Bosnia and Afghanistan, these battalions were used to help civilian populations, as well as to support military operations, and build infrastructure needed for military actions.