The need for a militarized construction force became evident after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. On D-Day Seabees were the first ashore as naval combat demolition units. Their task was to remove German defensive beach obstructions built to impede amphibious landings.

Well worn black crackle Zippo with Seabees logo engraved on the front and ownership details «W. W. Welker, 602 28 89, U.S. Navy» on the other side.