Pacemakers. First In. The 864th Engineer Battalion.

The 864th Engineer Battalion — “Pacemakers” holds a singular distinction in U.S. Army history: it was the first U.S. engineer battalion-size unit deployed to Vietnam. Responsible for port transportation and support facilities construction in the early days of the war, the 864th set the pace for all engineer operations that followed.

As the conflict expanded, the battalion transitioned to base camp construction and line of communication construction and maintenance — critical work that kept the entire U.S. war effort moving. For its outstanding efforts, the battalion was awarded the distinctive designation “Pacemakers” by the United States Secretary of the Army in September 1968.

When the 864th returned to the Continental United States in August 1971, it carried 13 campaign streamers, the Vietnamese Civic Action Honor Medal, First Class, and two Meritorious Unit Commendations — one of the most decorated engineer battalions of the Vietnam War. Today, the battalion is based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, as a subordinate unit of the 555th Engineer Brigade.

This 15oz Black Ceramic Mug honors the Pacemakers with the Vietnam Service Ribbon — a bold daily tribute to the engineers who built the infrastructure of a war.

Premium Mug Specs

• Black Ceramic, 15 oz (0.44 L): Bold color, generous capacity
• High-Quality Sublimation Printing: Vivid, lasting print that won’t fade
• Lead and BPA-Free: Safe for daily use
• Dishwasher & Microwave Safe: Built for everyday convenience
• C-Handle & Rounded Corners: Comfortable grip from first sip to last

For Pacemakers Veterans & Vietnam Engineer Alumni

Whether you served with the 864th Engineer Battalion in Vietnam, honor a Pacemaker veteran, or collect Vietnam War combat engineer heritage — this mug is a daily tribute to the engineers who were first in and last out.

864th Engineer Battalion. Pacemakers. First In. Vietnam. Essayons.

Ideal for: 864th Engineer Battalion veterans, Vietnam War combat engineer veterans, Joint Base Lewis-McChord alumni, 555th Engineer Brigade veterans, and military collectors.

Care: Dishwasher-safe or hand wash with warm water and dish soap.