TRANSATLANTIC DIVISION Being All We Can Be
p The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) team at Erbil Air Base, Iraq, along with senior base leadership
and stakeholders, hold a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction for the Life Support Area (LSA) Roberts Dining Facility (DFAC), Erbil Air Base, Iraq, Aug. 2, 2022. When completed, the DFAC will serve more than 1,800 meals a day in a semi-permanent structure, replacing the current field-condition Alaska tent structures. USACE PHOTO BY RICHARD BAUMGARDNER
Being All We Can Be The Transatlantic Division’s 70-plus year legacy remains an integral part of the U.S. Army’s enduring story.
As the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Transatlantic Division Public Affairs Office regional director, and as a retired Army Soldier, I share the distinct professional responsibility – and the deep personal privilege – of telling the story of one of the most unique divisions within the Army Corps of Engineers.
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s the nation commemorated the U.S. Army’s 248th birthday on June 14, USACE stood as a strong pillar of support, reaffirming its indispensable role in fortifying the Army’s mission. With a rich and storied history dating back to the Revolutionary War, USACE has
BY CATHERINE CARROLL
steadfastly provided a strong foundation, showcasing its significance in diverse operations, infrastructure development, and disaster response efforts. The Army’s enduring motto, “Be all you can be,” resonates deeply with USACE and our collective commitment to Building Strong as we march forward to the shout of Essayons! (Let us try).
USACE played an indelible role in shaping the history of our nation. From its pivotal contributions during the American Civil War to the remarkable efforts in World War II and beyond, it has always stood on the frontline. USACE Soldiers and civilians, essential in constructing vital infrastructure and responding to disasters, have cemented their place in the annals of American history. Their unwavering dedication, manifesting the Army’s spirit of resilience and determination, is epitomized in the Army Corps of Engineers’ motto Essayons (Let us try). Their commitment to fortify wherever and whenever the Army requires has bolstered the Army’s mission, engendering a strong and resilient force always ready to protect the nation. But the USACE spirit of determination and resilience extends far beyond domestic frontiers. In the 1950s, the Army Corps of Engineers embarked on a significant journey to support the Middle East region. This marked a pivotal moment as they expanded their reach beyond the traditional operations within the United States. USACE played a vital role in managing military construction projects, and contributed to non-military initiatives such as building civilian air terminals, developing road systems, constructing port facilities, and other military construction. During this time, USACE also aided in infrastructure development in allied nations. Their efforts played a significant role in strengthening military capabilities, improving transportation and connectivity, and supporting economic growth in the region. USACE’s dedication resulted in long-term partnerships and the establishment of crucial military infrastructure, solidifying their contribution to regional stability and development. These early initiatives laid the foundation for a long-standing relationship between us and the Middle East, establishing a legacy of engineering excellence that endures to this day. The evolution of the Transatlantic Division itself is a testament to the dynamism and adaptability of USACE. From 1952 to 1976, the Mediterranean Division of USACE undertook numerous military and non-military construction projects across regions such as Turkey, Libya, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco. Notable works included building civilian
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