The Mission of the Corps of Engineers
Combat engineers build, repair and maintain buildings, roads and power supplies. They
employ explosives for construction and demolition projects, and clear minefields, construct and breach trenches, tank traps and other fortifications, bunker construction, bridge and road construction or destruction.
History of the Corps of Engineers
On 16 June, 1775, the Continental Congress resolved, “That there be one Chief
Engineer at the Grand Army… That two assistants be employed under him…” At the
close of the Revolution, the Corps was mustered out of service. In the early 1790’s,
Congress took steps to reconstitute the American Army by the establishing the Corps of
Artillerists and Engineers in 1794. On 16 March 1802, Congress authorized the
President to establish a separate Corps of Engineers.
Motto: “Essayons”
Colors: Red and White
Recognition: DeFleury Award awarded to honor individuals who have provided significant contributions to Army engineering.
Authors Who Served in the Corps of Engineers
Read about the legacy of notables who served in the Corps of Engineers branch of the United States Military.