The 20th Engineer Brigade is one of the U.S. Army’s premier combat engineer units, providing mobility, countermobility, and survivability support to airborne and special operations forces. With service in World War II, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, the 20th continues to uphold its reputation as “Bridging the Gap.” Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 20th Engineer Brigade.
Origins & World War II
The 20th Engineer Brigade traces its lineage back to World War II, when it was activated as the 20th Engineer Combat Regiment. The regiment supported operations across Europe, building bridges, clearing obstacles, and ensuring mobility for Allied forces as they advanced from Normandy into Germany.
Vietnam War
The brigade was reactivated in 1967 and deployed to Vietnam, where it oversaw critical engineer operations including the construction of bases, roads, and airstrips while also engaging in combat support. Its Soldiers were often tasked with building under fire, earning a reputation for resilience and innovation.
Cold War & Beyond
After Vietnam, the 20th Engineer Brigade became an essential part of the XVIII Airborne Corps, headquartered at Fort Bragg. This role placed the brigade alongside elite airborne and rapid deployment forces, giving it a central role in global contingency operations.
Global War on Terror
Following 9/11, the brigade deployed repeatedly in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Engineers from the 20th built forward operating bases, conducted route clearance, repaired critical infrastructure, and supported counterinsurgency operations.
Modern Role
Today, the 20th Engineer Brigade remains aligned under XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Liberty. It provides engineer support to airborne and special operations units, ensuring freedom of maneuver and survivability in both large-scale combat and rapid deployment scenarios. Its subordinate battalions specialize in combat engineering, construction, and bridging.
Identity & Legacy
-
Nickname/Motto: “Bridging the Gap”
-
Symbol: The brigade’s patch incorporates a castle, symbolizing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
-
Decorations: Multiple campaign streamers from WWII, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
-
Notable Contributions: The brigade has played critical roles in every major U.S. conflict since WWII, often working in austere environments to keep maneuver forces moving forward.
Enduring Significance
The 20th Engineer Brigade represents the indispensable partnership between combat arms and combat engineers. Its Soldiers make possible the success of airborne and mechanized forces by breaking obstacles, building vital infrastructure, and ensuring battlefield mobility.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 20th Engineer Brigade.