By Reagan Johnson
In the 1944 film The Fighting Seabees, John Wayne portrays Wedge Donovan, a civilian construction boss who pushes for the creation of a combat-ready construction unit within the U.S. Navy. The movie dramatizes the formation of the Navy's Construction Battalions—known as the Seabees—during World War II. While the film takes a few creative liberties, it also draws inspiration from real events surrounding the establishment of this unique military division.
The Real Seabees: Builders and Fighters
Established on March 5, 1942, the Seabees were created to address the need for skilled construction workers who also possessed the skills and training to defend themselves in combat zones. Their motto, "We Build, We Fight," encapsulates their dual role in constructing vital infrastructure—such as airstrips, bases, and roads—while being prepared to engage in combat on the turn of a dime. The Seabees played a crucial role in the Pacific theater, often building under fire and contributing significantly to the war effort.
Hollywood's Portrayal vs. Historical Reality
The Fighting Seabees takes a few creative liberties. But the heart of the story still holds true. In the movie, Wayne plays a civilian contractor who pushes to arm his men after repeated attacks, leading to the formation of a military construction unit.
The U.S. Navy had a similar problem to solve in real life, but it played out in official channels. Under international law, civilians couldn’t take up arms in war zones without risking serious consequences. The answer? Form a fully trained, combat-ready force composed of skilled builders who could juggle constructing and defending as needed. With that, the Seabees were born. While the movie simplifies things, it sure gets one thing right: the grit, the pride, and the fighting spirit of these men who built the war effort from the ground up.
Honoring the Seabees on Memorial Day
Each Memorial Day, we remember the brave Americans who have served our country, and the many diverse ways they served. The Seabees may not be as well-known as some fighting divisions, but their contributions were just as critical. Today, the Seabees remain an active part of the U.S. Navy, continuing their mission around the world: building where others can’t, and serving where they’re needed most.
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About the Author
Reagan Johnson has spent more than 20 years in television, publishing, and marketing, with the last four as a contributing writer, content strategist, and editor for INSP. Her travel writing has appeared in Forbes Travel Guide, Smithsonian Magazine, MSNBC Travel, Jetsetter, ISLANDS, and Weddings Unveiled, along with custom content for clients including Oil Nut Bay and Brand USA. She has served as travel editor-at-large and digital content fact-checker for Smithsonian Magazine’s native travel features. Reagan also manages a boutique marketing agency specializing in travel, hospitality, and tourism brands, blending editorial expertise with strategic insight to create engaging, audience-focused content.
