Alden K. Sibley and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

[@clydebalcom8252]

As a Marine, and a former combat engineer, I appreciate your time to present this episode.

[@garyrunnalls7714]

God bless you, thx for your service sir.

[@Svensk7119]

I noticed you said, "Marine" and 'former' engineer! From an 11Mike.

[@muricaforever2978]

Proud USACE Civil Engineer here. Thank you so much for talking about the Corps of Engineers! ESSAYONS!

[@Pique147]

Try not. Do, or do not. There is no try. - Y.Oda

[@cobeer1768]

The Us Coast Guard Auxiliary's Public Affairs Directorate (I think that's close to right) sent THG a coin. Im not trying to use any branch rivalry here but dont you think his collection would be more complete with a USACE coin or something? Just a thought. Lol Keep up the good work!

[@muricaforever2978]

@@cobeer1768 Oh, don't you worry. We've already got something planned. :)

[@muricaforever2978]

@@Pique147 Wise words from the Jedi Master. Though it's true that 'Essayons' literally translates to 'Let us Try', the spirit of "Essayons' more accurately means "Let us Dare, Let us do!"

[@cobeer1768]

@@muricaforever2978 Thats awesome.

[@SHAKA38]

I did not know that fact about West Point until I had a chance to visit and tour the Academy with a Captain in my Unit who had attended. As an Engineer Soldier, it felt like walking on hallowed ground from being immersed in the history of the Branch that I was unaware of. Thanks for this episode HG. Essayons!

[@trixrabbit8792]

Sorry SHAKA38. But I’ve seen to many West Point officers get soldiers hurt and killed for stupid reasons. The last charge of The Light Brigade might just as well been about what happens when a west pointer is in charge.

[@dirus3142]

Grant also worked with Lee in the Mexican American war. edit. A civil engineer and professor warned that the levies would not hold if an F5 hurricane hit New Orleans. He was ignored by the mayor, governor and others in a position to solve the problem. He was also fired from the university he belonged to. Blame does not belong to the Engineering corps alone. An engineer warned of the disaster of Fukushima when construction was being planned for those reactors. He said build a large sea wall, he was ignored. There is a systemic problem with politicians ignoring the wisdom of engineers, and other knowledgeable experts, which result in catastrophe.

[@blipco5]

Dirus ...Any current politician come to mind?

@Eric da' MAJ If he's a noob "politician" and tends to lie 12,000 times or more in a 30 month period,and NEVER listens to anybody WATCH OUT

[@blipco5]

Eric da' MAJ ...I'm afraid they don't even give it that much thought. They care nothing of future consequences. They care only about what is good for them 'right now'. Politicians rely on bullshit and the voters short memory.

[@vac65]

There always will be the ones who count only the money. The good solution is never cheap. The problem is that the guy who wold not pay, also would not sign... So the blame will fall on the engineer... I'm an electrical engineer, working on fire security systems... Go figure...

[@royriley6282]

It's never the engineers. It is in the nature of engineers to build the best they can. It is in the nature of politicians and businessmen to cut corners and screw over those beneath them. This is why a Honda lasts three decades before breaking down while a Ford is lucky to last three years. Engineers are much higher ranking in Japanese companies.

[@mrsdomino4196]

Father in law was in COE in WW11. They built a bridge over The Rhine in 42 days under constant bombardment. We have the paperwork congratulating them as the bridge turned the tide allowing troops and supplies across. He was an amazing man and remained creative. Turned his work to building schools after the war. We have several of his gadgets. I miss him very much. Salute.

[@briangarrow448]

Tip of the hat and a sincerest thanks to the memory of your father in law.

[@johnmcmickle5685]

What unit was he serving with?

[@andyZ3500s]

Your wife should be very proud of her father.

[@mrsdomino4196]

1056 Combat Engineers

[@joedunleavy7066]

I had a friend with that unit. He always talked about the war in the 3rd person. Only thing he talked about his self was building the bridge. I found the book "First across the Rhine" did your father ever talk about his part in the battle of the bulge??

[@araeagle3829]

The History Guy - Steward of History. What a magnificent thought!

[@petermaxey814]

As an engineer myself, I am amazed that the general public has no idea of the miraculous benefits that engineering has provided to both the people and our country!

[@briangarrow448]

As a retired Craftsman and wastewater treatment plant operator, you have a thank you from me. I've lived a lifetime in the bowels of society's machinery and respect the brilliance of those who designed it. Well done sir Well done 👍

[@47Yeoman]

@@briangarrow448 Well done to you too, Brian. We enjoy the enormous benefit of modern WWTP’s and we owe thanks to the engineers and operators who make them possible. Thank you, Sir.

[@johndaut7128]

I was a SEABEE for 12 years

[@freedapeeple4049]

Most people have trouble engineering their way to work in the morning. Most people don't *want* to know about engineering. It would be too much like thinking.

[@tomb7088]

Lets be honest, most people have no idea how their local grocery store gets inventory. And don't even try to explain to people how their package ordered online get to their home in two days. Instead, I hear women complain that after a major storm, it took a whole day to get power back and that must be because all the incompetent people stealing from the utility. We are so lucky to be able to live in such utter ignorance.

[@gerryphilly53]

As the parent of a National Guard officer attached to an Engineer Unit, thanks for this spotlight on an amazing organization. The Corps is truly a national asset. I had the good fortune to be able to visit the Corps’ museum at Fort Leonard Wood while attending my son’s BOLC graduation and learned of the Corps’ vital role.

[@elcastorgrande]

US Army Engineers, 18th Engr Bde, Vietnam, Class of 1969. Engineers forever!

[@horstebreedow8608]

Us Army Combat Engineer Sapper. Welcome home brother.

[@sapper2497]

18th eng. 249th ECB(h) Germany 1988- 1991( desert storm vet)

[@grondhero]

I think the New Orleans failure had to do with the local government. The Corps took responsibility for political reasons, precisely because they couldn't be sued, unlike city & state government agencies. Heck, the city was built _below_ sea level.

[@rpm12091]

Quack Quark Yes New Orleans is a bowl alright a toilet bowl.

[@grondhero]

@Quack Quark Seriously? The levies were *not* predicted to fail. They were predicted to make it through. There were findings years ago about why it failed. Quite a few documentaries/specials on it. The city mayor and state governor were both putting politics and personal gains above the people - that's why the mayor's still in jail. Again, things like this are why the Corps of Engineers were basically pressured to take full responsibility - so the city & state couldn't be sued. New Orleans has flooded before and probably will again. They aren't going to build smarter, because most people there are dependent on government.

[@jockellis]

I think the mayor and the governor involved should have been shot at dawn.

[@lowellmccormick6991]

Originally the city was built on "high" land along the river. A sliver on the river. The city expanded into the swamps and reclaimed land on Lake Pontchartrain. I blame levees, drainage canals & building permits that allowed slab on grade construction at or below sea level.

[@jb6027]

Grondhero is absolutely correct. I was in New Orleans just before Katrina. The big local news at that time was how local politicians had stolen $50 million in federal money intended for levee upgrades.

[@goinhot]

As the son of an Army Engineer. And a big fan of this channel. This was your best episode ever! Thank you for showing the importance of what engineering has done for our country, and the world as we know it.

[@v.e.7236]

I've been through the St. Lawrence Seaway w/ my father, in a 55' Berger, steel hulled boat. Just after getting through the last lock, we came into a pretty severe squall that eventually produced a tornado/water spout. That was the first (and only) time I had witnessed a water spout, so I was both mildly frightened and utterly mesmerized by this natural phenomenon. About ten or fifteen minutes after it passed our area it literally started raining down all sorts of fish and other marine life and sea detritus. We stood inside the cabin and watched this bazaar occurrence for about another five minutes. Personal history I will always remember. lol

[@andyZ3500s]

I never heard of anything like that before. I'm not doubting you. That must of been quite a site to see.

[@v.e.7236]

@@andyZ3500s Had I not witnessed the event myself, I wouldn't believe it either. lol Not every day you get fish showers. As bad as hail.

[@JTA1961]

A short story in more detail would be interesting. Readers Digest type.

[@GaveMeGrace1]

Wow! That sounds frighteningly cool and beautiful too.

[@coopboulton]

I do contract work at Ft. Belvoir at an Army Corps of Engineers facility and one of the main buildings there is the Sibley Building and I'm so glad I know his history now. Thank you

[@yooyoolah5550]

US Army Mapping School is there. Survivors, Printing, Terrain analysis. Five months in 97, before they tore down the old air assault building across from barrack and up the road from the theater.

[@Dr.JamesJohannson]

Ft Belvoir used to be Camp AA Humphries prior to the 1935 and was the home of the Corps of Engineers during WW1 and 2.

[@timcastle165]

Thank you so much for this video about the Army Engineers! I serve in the U.S. Army from 1974 to 1977 and was assigned to Co.C 84th Engineer Battalion (Construction) 25th Infantry Battalion, which later changed Divisions to United States Army Command Hawaii (USASCH), then changed to (Combat Heavy) and went back to the 25th Infantry Division. I really enjoyed this video and would like to add that if anyone visits Oahu, Hawaii plan a visit to Ft. DeRussy in Waikiki. While stationed in Hawaii my unit converted a shore battery into a museum which people can still visit today. Loved the Corps! The motto of the 84th Engineers was “NEVER DAUNTED”! Thank you again for this video!!

[@TheHistoryGuyChannel]

Tim Castle thank you for your service!

[@sarjim4381]

I'm glad you have given a reasonably balanced overview of the Corp. As usual, nothing in history is all good or all bad.

[@davidcarroll8735]

Congrats on 500+k Subscribers! Well deserved.

[@Traderjoe]

People like him are actually equivalent to the engineers in Ancient Rome who commanded the construction of the aquifers that brought fresh water to Rome and other large Roman cities and in the layout of new cities as well. They were not just leaders in an army of death and destruction, but also of leaders of civil projects that benefited mankind and still do

[@BeingFireRetardant]

Appian Way still operates as a functional road two thousand years later, Hadrian's Wall, and even the recipe for concrete as we know it... Roman engineers. At the end of every march it was the engineers who threw up fortifications. Some still stand, as testament to backbreaking labor, excellent masonry work, and the durability of structures made by determined men. Vini Vidi Vici... We came, we saw, we conquered. Who else was going around leaving evidence of sanitation systems, fresh water aquifers, and lasting, well designed roadways?

[@GeorgeSemel]

The Legions of Rome spent more time building things than they did the actual fighting. We take so much for granted and never give a second thought of all the Engineering and plain hard work it took for us to live such comfortable lives.

[@BeingFireRetardant]

@@gastonestbon5439 Lol, yeah but we all still know the name for a reason...

[@deanotamsmith4024]

Hey History Guy, I love history too. Your programs are like a breath of fresh air compared to some of the other history channels. Thanks for the great work you do to help keep history alive.

[@christian-michaelhansen471]

My husband, Melvin L. Hansen Jr., a few decades plus eight years older than me worked, quite proudly, for The Army Corps of Engineers for 35 years before retirement. Starting out, he was a supply officer for the dredges carving out the shipping channel on the Columbia and Willamette rivers in Oregon.Eventually, He was head of Personal and Pay Management in several districts including Portland OR, Jacksonville FL, Los Angeles, and finally Seattle. He was proud of his career, having first been part of the US Army, then Air Force, and finally the Corps. THG and his presentation here reminded me of why my husband of 18 years was deservedly proud of his accomplishments. Thank you once again for reinforcing my appreciation of these bits of History, that deserve to be remembered!

[@Roger-ny9xr]

Being a civil engineer myself, I was extremely happy to learn, from your video, the history of corps and the connection between engineering and some of our country's most famous military leaders. Thank you.

[@michaeljohnston6856]

Love your passion for hats. I tip my hat to you sir.

[@WorldwideWyatt]

My Grandfather achieved the rank of Colonel in the US Army Corps of Engineers and served in Viet Nam. He was also a Civil Engineer by trade.

[@johnmcmickle5685]

As someone that served in the Corps of engineers and is a registered professional engineer i like this video. However the part about New Orleans lacked a few details, the most important in my opinion of which is the fact that a major part of the maintenance on those levees is over seen by a local levee broad. That levee board collects taxes locally to fund that maintenance. You might also want to look at Lt. Gen. Emerson C. Itschner. He was an Engineer and the award for the best unit in the Corp of Engineers presented by the Society Of American Military Engineers is named after him. He organized the Red ball express in Europe after D-day. I was a platoon leader in the company that won in 1983.

[@JEBavido]

John McMickle , you are so right. The handling of the maintenance of the levees is not to be blamed on the Corps. I hate to see, again and again, the Corps being blamed for that disaster. I am perplexed as to why they took the blame for it, and wonder if there was some sort of political pressure.

[@olerocker3470]

In May of 2008, I was privileged to work on a Corps of Engineers ship (yes, the Army has ships!) in Portland, OR. The ship, a port dredger, needed an electrical overhaul and upgrade and Siemens landed the contract. I went to Portland for 3 weeks to work on the electrical drawings. One weekend, the anniversary of the eruption of Mt. St. Helens, I drove up to Johnson Observatory to see this awesome volcano. On my way back, I saw a CoE sign for the sediment retention dam they built to slow the ash sediment from one of the smaller rivers that fed into it Columbia River. BTW, that would be a good topic of HTDTBR. The Corp predicted those dams would help stop the majority of the ash build up and not overflow until approx. 50 years later. By 2012, 4 years after my visit, the dam overflowed and the Corps had to have the dam raised higher to stop the ash that was still coming down from that disaster area 30 something years later! Ironically, the very dredger I was working on was there specifically to dredge out the MSH ash. If anyone reading this lives in the area, go see that Toutle River sediment retention. Be on the lookout for the sign - it was easy to miss when I went there 11 years ago!

[@wendychavez5348]

I almost skipped this video because military is not a subject that interests me in general. I am glad that I chose to watch it due to my belief that yes, history does deserve to be remembered, even when I might not appreciate the apparent talking point. Thank you for your great content!

[@RobertWoodman]

My grandfather served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as an officer and a civilian for about 40 years. Thank you for this wonderful, educational video.

[@jmeyer3rn]

Hi Mr History Guy. Thank you for sharing your hat with us. My husband is Electrical and my daughter is Civil. We live in Indiana. Both are Purdue engineering grads and of course you know that Neil Armstrong was a Purdue grad and in fact played in the Purdue All American Marching Band in which my daughter also played. My dad was a graduate of GMI and was a mechanical engineer at Alison transmission. I'm proud of my husband and daughter who have helped build our infrastructures here in Indiana. I've always heard of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Hey!! Boiler Up!!

[@b.bangalore4235]

Essayons! Combat Engineer from 2006-2011 Being an engineer taught me what a few men with the right tools and know how can do. It also showed me how people, when well organized can make a huge difference. It is humbling to know the history of our forebearers, and the indelible mark on this nation they have had. Thank you for doing this video HG!

[@dirkditmer453]

I have worked doing large scale ground improvement projects from Panama to Alaska. Of all the entities we worked/ for (including companies such as Bechtel etc), THE most knowledgeable and professional was the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Many times we had to explain, design and instruct companies on our methods and processes. But never The Corps. Many times they seemed more knowledgeable about our work than we ourselves. Incredible organization. Great piece, thank you

[@garybonham6048]

As an Army Corps of Engineers officer, I am well aware of the immense contributions my predecessors have given our nation, Many thanks for bringing it to light. You can add the Manhattan Engineer District to that great legacy...In addition, I'm a proud alum of the great University of Nevada, Reno and it's outstanding Civil Engineer Department. You might as well as done this video just for me! Incredibly, I've also served in the Albuquerque Engineer District, responsible for the Conchas and John Martin Dams as well. Incredible that Sibley and I've covered such similar ground. Thank you again for your support for the Army Corps of Engineers. Let us try! Essayons!

[@mrykzgrl1]

Your wrap-ups always get me in the feels when you talk about our service members. I appreciate the way you respectfully address their service.

[@philwebb3]

Always the best 10-15 minutes of information on history. Thanks.

[@charlie418791]

Proud to say General Gridley is buried in my home town of Canton , Massachusetts. Also home to Paul Revere's copper mill and his summer home. Great episode. 👍

[@marbleman52]

I am 67 and I have known of the Army Corps of Engineers for a long time and have seen the logo on many projects, but I never really stopped to consider that the name Army meant the U.S. Army and not just a generic name for a bunch of engineers. I feel kinda sheepish now ! Thanks, Mr. H, for setting me straight !

[@jamesbednar8625]

Great video!!! Automatic "like" just because this episode was about the Corps of Engineers. Was part of the Corps of Engineers while in the US Army from 1981-2001, although I was just a Combat Engineer - one of those people that ran through a minefield to breach a lane for armored vehicles and such to maneuver through. Combat Engineers are essential in the aspects of: maneuverability, counter-mobility, and survivability. Also, we built obstacles of all sorts, survivability positions, minefields, bridges, conduct recon's, destroyed obstacles, destroyed enemy positions, destroyed minefields. We also build schools, homes, hospitals.

[@MongoMan693]

What an excellent video and story! Absolutely fascinating! Thank you so much for enlightening me of the accomplishments of the Corps of Engineers! As a retired Engineer and Veteran (a Cold War Attack Submarine sailor) I appreciate the detail and passion you present in your telling of history to us.

[@backdraft916]

Very appreciative of this video and it’s timing. My dad would have been 103 today. He served in the Corps, 1st helping to build the ALCAN highway, then various duties along the front lines of the Pacific theater. He was among a contingent of engineers preparing to be on the front lines of the invasion of the Japanese home islands until the surrender happened. His company had produced 2 coffee table “yearbooks” of their Service in the respective Operations.

[@angelhelp777]

Thank you very much for this episode. I had requested you do something on the Army Corp of Engineers a while back, but never thought you would get around to it. This episode was very special because my dad was a Tech Sgt. in the Army Corp of Engineers, from 1943-1945 and I never knew what he did. I do remember he kept wanting to "get in the fight", but I am not sure if that ever happened. I just know that he landed on Okinawa on the last day of the war with Japan, but not much else. I enjoy all of your History Guy episodes, but this one was really special. May God bless you and your wife. James G.

[@chiefpontiac1800]

Very interesting story THG. I never realized how the USACOE came about and how large their scope of responsibility was, and is to this day.

[@krombopalousdrexal1677]

As a former Combat Engineer and member of the Corps of Engineers, thank you for this video.

[@HistoryHustle]

Interesting stuff. Also love the collection in the background!

[@markkover8040]

Definitely a branch of the U.S. military that deserves to be remembered. I served in the Idaho Army National Guard with the 116th Engineer Battalion for 11 years. We worked on many public projects such as cleaning up mine tailings, rebuilding roads, and disaster relief all over the state. The Corp of Engineers doesn't begin to get the credit it deserves. Thank you.

[@jalopywrench]

As an Army Engineer I'd like to thank you for this episode.

[@lvanvan]

Bulgarian civil engineer here disign steel strucktures. Respect!

[@Mondo762]

Wonderful story and thank you for educating people about the Army Corps Of Engineers. My father was a Engineer officer and fought in the Pacific during WW2. He was an adviser in Vietnam in 1960. With only 275 advisers allowed at the time I'm sure he knew General Sibley. I certainly recognize the dress white hat because it looks just like my dad's. I still have his MAAG Vietnam patches.

[@milosterwheeler2520]

Have you ever done an episode about Fort Wood on Bedloe's Island? I don't see much about it - other than the fact that it supports the Statue of Liberty. I'd like to know more about the pre-statue years of the island and fort.

[@banditeastlick2471]

You often do stories about Men of War and this name had me think of him. His name is Don Shipley and he was in the Navy. He's a living Relic and I think you would be intrigued by him. He had dedicated his entire life to his career

[@andrewscott8892]

And still dedicating his life to the men who served and are serving

[@Jasonwolf1495]

Another good story that intersects with the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Mt. Morris Dam. Without which the city of Rochester may not exist today. The 1972 dam came within 1 foot of the dam's spillway. If the dam gave way, Rochester potentially would have been completely destroyed, not to mention the other smaller towners between the dam and the city.

[@MrStan1221]

This episode reminds of the joy i have visiting the Army Corps of Engineers museum in Chesapeake City, MD along the C & D canal which joins the Chesapeake Bay and Delaware River. Thank you.

[@jameskolan9195]

I salute you, History Guy, for remembering and honouring these quiet heroes. Great stories of Sibley and the Army Corps of Engineers!

[@WhiteStone21475]

Today's tie is particularly grand, love the eagle head! Great episode today, proud of Sibley's service!

[@shanestrains7179]

I was a combat engineer in the army. I really appreciated this video. Thanx history guy

[@wkmetz3]

My Dad served with the Corp in WWII from Omaha Beach to the crossing of the Rhine. I worked with the Corp as a civilian cleaning the islands of the Susquehanna River after Hurricane Agnus caused major flooding in central Pennsylvania. My hat is off to the Corp of Engineers. They are quite amazing in what they did and do.

[@kimidawn9]

My grandfather was a Lt. Col. in the Army Corps of Engineers. He passed when I was only 2 but I'm now going through his records and learning about his service from the mid 30s to 1958. He was the commanding officer of the 802nd EAB in Korea building an airstrip when the enemy surrounded them and they had to fight to hold their position for a day and a half before being rescued the summer of 1950.

[@memyself-nd-i]

my Dad was a combat engineer in Vietnam. His primary job was running a rock quarry. He was involved with building Bluestone damn in WV, in 1964, when he met my mom, and they married in '65

[@russwoodward8251]

Fantastic. The Army Corp has been very influential on my life, as my father moved us from sunny California in the 1960s to the Northwest to provide for us building dams for The Corp. He then worked on private contractor jobs that the new Corp construction created, building powerline right of ways and flood control structures. Thank you so much for this video.

[@derekandrasic2135]

As a proud Army Engineer I must say this was your best episode yet. Well done, Sir. ESSAYONS!!!

[@bethbartlett5692]

Uncommon - Name and Information . My son's name is *Alden* - named after one of the last Community Doctors that still made House calls when I was in 2nd grade and had German Measels, and family friend. His wife Laverne was absolutely Breatakingly Beautiful, and my Sunday School Teacher - Methodist of course, although I chose my Grandmother's Faith and became the only of 4 girls to become Confirmed Catholic - Irish Family - split right down the middle - but all practiced a Catholic observance. My son - born Superbowl Sunday, 1985 - Alden Bartlett was Christened Michael - (St Michael) Miami -- San Fran Montana beat Marino - but My Team won the next year and I was watching with my son in my lap as Walter Peyton and "the Fridge" - made my day. Go Bears! Go Irish!!! Go *Alden!!!!!!!!!* Great pick History Guy!

[@hoberghacienda2267]

Hello! Love your channel! As a retired history teacher, I am so glad you are keeping history out there, in front of people. Have you thought of doing an episode on the LCS(L) ships of WWII? My father served on the LCS 86, in the Pacific. In fact his ship is pictured in the USS William D. Porter episode you did. Pulled along side of her as she was sinking. The LCS ships were known as the "Mighty Midgets." (The group was also known as the "Hooligan Navy") Pound for pound, they had more firepower than a battleship. According to my dad, some of that firepower was "borrowed" from the larger ships! Thanks for all you do!

[@GaveMeGrace1]

Thank you- my grandfather, Emmett Birk, was a Captain in the Engineers during World War 2. He built bridges in the Philippines. I’m twice as proud of him now as I’ve always been. Reminiscing, I could’ve been quite happy as a topographical-engineer.

[@MrDavidknigge]

As a lover of American history, I appreciate what you do the further the education of the American public and especially for those of us who choose to be educated

[@thesmiths2675]

It’s really neat to he able to watch a youtube video and see something that brings back actual memories. I thought you might like to know, in the pictures from Hurricane Katrina, where the dozer is pushing debris, the chalk markings on the side indicate it is from Charlie Company of the 890th engineer battalion of the Mississippi National Guard. I was in Alpha Company from Picayune, MS and I believe Charlie was from Columbia, MS. The scoop loader on the beach, I can’t make out but I was somewhere in the area when these pictures were taken. Thank you for sharing this.

[@fdmackey3666]

Just to show how little the average person knows about the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, when I was in the U.S. Army I had the occasion (over several German beers) to ask a COMBAT engineer if he and his branch had anything to do with the CoE. His answer, I thought at the time, was rather odd..."No Sarge, we are two different animals....THEY build buildings, big ass trenches, and "stuff" like that....WE build temporary pontoon bridges and roads, blow "stuff" up, and fight all at the same time." His answer sounded right at the time but I still felt like my question had not been completely answered. Thanks, after over forty years of wondering, for answering my question.

[@dhession64]

It never ceases to amaze me that General R. E. Lee was an engineer, and such a fabulous general to boot. It is noted that one of his first posts was at Ft. Monroe, VA, and there is a plaque on the front of his billets, which still stand. Ironically, it was the prison of Jefferson Davis after the war. The ACE is underappreciated in what they do and the service they provide. It has, and continues to, amaze me with what all this body does. Thank you for shining the light upon their service, warts and all. No one's perfect.

[@RGC-gn2nm]

Service Academies were required by Congress to educate civil engineers when they were founded. War is after all basically math and logistics

[@armyrabb1]

Proud Army engineer.

[@sparky6086]

History Guy, Terrific object lesson! Being an engineer and veteran, I always beam with pride at the significant roll engineers played throughout history, which like much of history, is often military history. I'll have to admit, even though until recent decades, I knew the service academies offered only engineering degrees, I wasn't aware, that West Point was originally conceived as an engineering school and was a military academy, almost as an afterthought! ...Very interesting.

[@kd5byb]

Great episode! The US Army Corps of Engineers is one of those organizations who gets NO credit or thanks for things that work everyday...but lots of criticism when something goes wrong. My hats off to the Army Corp of Engineers from another Army engineer. Essayons USACE! And of course, Truth in Testing! ;)

[@bobquinn314]

My father is a naval academy graduate, civil engineer, and his brother is an architect who both had careers in the Civil Engineer Corps of the U. S. Navy, serving with the Seabees in the Pacific, Antarctica, Europe, and Vietnam. Please consider doing an Episode on the CEC and especially on the Seabees. They are a fairly unknown group of some of the best and most skilled military personnel our country has. Their history is very interesting, admirable and unique, the work they do all over the world is remarkable. The Seabees have a great museum in Port Hueneme, California and there are people there who can give you much valuable information on their history and ongoing missions. If you're interested, look up Capt. R.E.Quinn Jr. CEC (retired), he helps run the museum and has over 60 years of experience with the Seabees, and an encyclopedic knowledge of their history.

[@michaelnovak260]

Fascinating! I knew that West Point was originally established to educate and create Army engineers, but had no idea their reach into every Americans' life would be so profound! Well done History Guy!

[@MrRokashan]

I would love to see you do a video on Ferry Command, flying bombers made in the us to England, via Newfoundland, during WW2

[@olerocker3470]

Agreed. Also would like to see one about the pilots who flew over the Himalayan Mountains (the Hump) and then later flew the Berlin Airlift. My brother's father-in-law was one of those pilots.

[@andyZ3500s]

@@olerocker3470 The Berlin air lift would be a very interesting topic. It would have to include uncle wiggle wings the pilot who dropped bags of candy to the kids on the ground.

[@sixstringedthing]

Fascinating, informative and well balanced as always. With a nice personal touch too. Great work THG!

[@bettywatson8828]

I haven't been watching The History Guy for very long, but I wondered, what was with the wall of hats? Thank you. This was quite interesting. I never knew that military had such a background with engineering. I have worked as a draftsman for a land surveyor for 37 years and have worked on many projects for civil engineers over that time. I learn a lot from watching The History Guy. Our local talk radio has a game every Thursday called Political Trivia. So far I've won 9 times! Thanks for the history lessons, keep it up!

[@valsblackcatsrule8740]

How fascinating that so much history lives within a hat! Thank you for sharing a part of your day with us!

[@guyh.4553]

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕 This is the core of what the Army Corps of Engineers represent. Essayons H.G.! Essayons! Let Us Try!

[@elcastorgrande]

Essayons et edifions!

[@muricaforever2978]

Essayons! Let us try! Let us dare! Let us do!

[@seanworkman431]

Although not an engineer myself, I have been approached by many engineers seeking advice on projects due to my practical experience. There was one occasion where I refused to participate in construction as I did not agree with the engineering plans. It was just a domestic pontoon on Sydney Harbour Aus but when it failed the owner sued that Engineer into poverty. However the Army Corp of Engineers combine academic excellence with practical experience and get the job done. Another fitting tribute to a hat :)

[@snakecharm74]

Love your channel. May I suggest a well loved and quirky, but tough Royal Australian Navy Skipper named Hec Waller. A true hero who went down with the HMAS Perth alongside the USS Houston in the battle of the Sunda Strait. The whole story, and his role in the Med with the "Scrap Iron Flotilla"; old Australian destroyers is remarkable. Love the history you tell.

[@PhantomLover007]

As a former 12B US Army Combat Engineer who served 12 years in the MOS (Military occupational specialty), I greatly appreciated this post. Mostly unnoticed to the civilian world, the Engineers Corps Is broken up into segments. There is the entirety of the corps of engineers, but for the US Army it is segmented. There are combat engineers (which are known as “Sappers”) deal with mobility and snti-mobility field fortifications , direction of the flow battle, Emplacements of minefields, wire obstacles and other Disruptions. You also have construction engineers who are tasked with building structures for forward operating bases, etc. Heavy equipment engineers also fall under the entirety of the corps. Those that operate bulldozers, scrapers, front end loader’s, the grizzly/AVLB, the M9 ACE, SEE trucks, etc. Our running joke is that we typically build something in the morning and have to destroy it in the evening and the next morning have to rebuild it. Sappers Forward. Essayons! Let us try

[@christopherrasmussen8718]

I was attached to the public works department of the Army War College in the 1990s. I helped take care of the facility. Historic is superlative there. History oozes from the walls. It's on display around every corner and on every wall. It’s an incredible place and I was extremely proud to serve there

[@Indoor_Man]

I have to say. I so truly enjoy this channel. Your consistency in quality is unparalleled. Thank you for your well-researched and explained stories. I find much solace in watching your KZbin channel.

[@CHRISFRIELROY]

I appreciate the bow tie being an army/eagle pattern. Way to go, History guy!

[@Me2Lancer]

Fascinating information. Never realized how late in coming the Saint Lawrence Seaway was in coming.

[@desertduke1]

Thank you so much for a very intriguing lesson. I especially appreciatethe personal touch that you add by tying the Col. Sibley and his hat to the heart of the material.

[@robertmorris2388]

What we take for granted. I, for one, didn’t know the scope of The Corps’ impact on our lives. Over sight is important of course given the intent and the limitations of bureaucracy’s. Knowledge and scope limitations and politics, as well as ‘20-20 hindsight, may give us a perspicacious view of events but, we need also to take pause and be grateful for the work they have done to make the nation great. Thanks for your work. Don’t keep it under your HAT.

[@marcinholst106]

One of my favorite episodes. Thanks History Guy!

[@jennaolbermann7663]

I have been learning so much about historical events that I’m not familiar with through your channel. Thank you for the wonderful content.

[@edmundmcalister119]

While that is undoubtedly Sibley's hat, it is not a general officer's dress cap. That is a field-grade officer's cap (Major through Colonel); the general officer's cap has additional gold oak leaf embellishment around the cap itself, and not just on the brim. Happy to show an example to anyone interested.

[@terrysibley9636]

Very informative, you gotta love history. From one Sibley to one long past thank you for your service.

[@mjc11a]

Excellent presentation that is worthy of recognition. Thanks for posting and stay safe.

[@buddymac1392]

Red Castle... one of the best docs I've ever seen from you. Fantastic!

[@JWSitterley]

The Great State of Arizona owes much to the The Army Corp of Engineers making the state a more habitable area.

[@samiam619]

John Sitterley How did the Corp do that? Did they invent air conditioning? Okay, okay. You’re talking about water. Come to Michigan, we have plenty of the stuff!

[@Cenobyte40k]

Almost the entire population of that state lives as a monument to man's arrogance.

[@alitlweird]

Great episode! Feature length with no ads! ❤️

[@ScholRLea]

Have you considered doing a video on the Tennessee Valley Authority Act, and the work the TVA has done both to provide water and power to the region as well its role in bringing employment during the Great Depression, and (in keeping with some of my earlier suggestions) the role TVA hydroelectric dams played in the Manhattan Project? I am particularly fond of a (possibly apocryphal) story regarding Neils Bohr and the the Oak Ridge facilities. Reportedly, Bohr had previously stated that no one would seriously undertake a nuclear weapons project, as they would have to convert their entire nation 'into one large factory just for that purpose." However, after fleeing to the UK, he joined the their Tube Alloys Group, and would go with them to the US when that got rolled into the Manhattan Project. In 1944 (or so the story goes), he was invited to tour the uranium enrichment facilities at Oak Ridge. One of their first stops was to a ridgeline overlooking the facility, which presumably Groves or whoever it was guiding him though would give a suitably impressive vista of industrial might. When asked what he thought of this, Bohr replied, "It is just as I said - I told you that you would have to make the whole country one big factory, and here you have done it!" To be fair, that Oak Ridge facility is almost as large as the entirety of Denmark, so it's sort of understandable. :-) This would also be a good place to aside about how he hid his Nobel Prizes, dissolving them in aqua regia and leaving them in an unmarked jar which remained untouched in Copenhagen until after the war; the Nobel Committee agreed to have them recast from the original gold once it was precipitated back into metallic form.

[@yooyoolah5550]

An episode about the "Pineapple Pentagon" would be great. A lot of history wrapped in up in that place, The area is incredibly beautiful also. Multiple scenes in the movie Pearl Harbor were filmed around there to include "Palm Circle" another great place with history. Thank you, I really enjoy your program.

[@craigbowie8925]

The first memory I have of hearing "Army Corp of Engineers" was when I learned about Mud Mountain Dam in Washington state. It was a flood control dam near the town of Enumclaw. I was fascinated by the complexity of it's construction. Here in Denver we have Cherry Creek Dam. Amazing stuff.

[@Platyfurmany]

Sir, I think that this was an excellent tribute to both General Sibley and to the Army Corps of Engineers.

[@joebell2910]

Your content is awesome, its wonderful to listen to someone who cares as much about history as I do. Thank you!

[@MythicFool]

Thank you for bringing the spotlight to the USACE and Gen. Sibley.

[@rexchopper1174]

One of the best yet

[@bernarrcoletta7419]

Oh how cool. My Dad was in the 62nd Engineer Co., 1st Missile Command back in the late 50’s. He worked on the 1957 survey of the Alps.