WW2 Combat Engineers Forum
PLEASE READ - Update Jan 2026
Welcome! YOU MUST BECOME A REGISTERED MEMBER TO HAVE FULL ACCESS (posting & editing)!
The forum has not only migrated to a new server, but has undergone a complete transformation. Previously we were using MyBB, but have switched to wpForo, a more modern forum platform. It's something I've been wanting to do for a long time and finally mustered the courage to take the plunge. I thought, what a great way to begin 2026. Along with revamping the main site, we have a new name, one that I think is more representative of the content - ww2combatengineers.com.
There were a few bugs along the way (missing attachments), but the vast majority have been restored.
Please note: If you are already a current member, you will have to reset your password in order to login. I apologize for this inconvenience but the migration didn't allow this due to the differences between the old and new software. So, thanks for understanding.
Feel free to ask questions along the way. Thanks for all patience while I make all the changes.
Happy New Year, Marion
DONATIONS

Would you consider a donation?
If I've helped you in any fashion, would you please consider a monetary gift? Donations help with research costs, software, upgrades, and yearly website hosting fees. Every dollar is greatly appreciated and helps keep this site afloat.
$5 donation
DOWNLOAD THE DOCUMENTARY
NBTF, a WWII documentary, written, directed, and produced by Marion J Chard, n loving memory of my father, Walter “Monday” Poniedzialek, 540th Combat Engineer.
While thousands of books and film have been dedicated to the history of WWII, lessor attention has been given to the comprehensive and heroic role played by U.S. Army Engineers. It is in this light we hope to rectify this unfortunate oversight.
The 36th, 39th, 540th & 1108th Engineers were non-divisional and employed on an as-needed basis. Referred to as “bastard” regiments, they were often attached to or in support of other Army units, while part of II & VI Corps and 5th & 7th Army in the European Theater of Operations.
Part 1 begins with the state-side training in 1941 and follows the engineers as they embark across the Atlantic for their first beachhead landing, and initial baptism of fire on November 8, 1942. Part 2 – Walk alongside as we trace their footsteps throughout the North African Campaign, and their preparation for the Invasion of Sicily in July of 1943.
Note: Included in the documentary are references to men from other units who fought alongside the 36th, 39th, 540th and 1108th Engineers.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR RESEARCH
PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU CONTACT ME!!!!
This section gives instructions on how to proceed with research on WWII units and individual soldiers!
LOOKING FOR...
Looking for a WWII vet or trying to find information? Found someone from an old battalion, etc.? Please post your information here. You'd be surprised at what you might find by posting your search here and in other forums and guestbooks.
PRESERVATION
Tips and helpful hints on how to preserve and care for your old photos, manuscripts, letters and more.
MARION'S NEWS, UPDATES & BABBLINGS...
Check here for updates & the latest news regarding our main site and forum.
Note: You cannot POST HERE, but you can REPLY!
ANNOUNCEMENTS, GET WELLS & FAREWELLS
Post announcements related to our engineers & other WWII vets.
NEWS AND EVENTS
News around the world. Even though we have a Current Events Category under Other Wars, we needed a general news category. Posts are good for 60 days.
PUBLISHED ARTICLES & MORE
This section will feature anything regarding my publications in magazines, the documentary I am producing and any future books.
VI CORPS AND 5TH & 7TH ARMIES (1 viewing)
Would love to hear from anyone that was involved in the campaigns that the 36th, 39th, or 540th participated in. This includes the 3rd, 34th, 36th or 45th Infantry Divisions, the 1st Armored Division, 82nd Airborne or any other related units. Please note that all the above units were a part of the VI Corps, 5th and/or 7th Armies during the ETO from 1942-1945, some for more extended periods than others.
Thanks for your participation. Your stories make this site even better!
OTHER WWII UNIT STORIES AND INFO
Please place any stories, info or questions related to other WWII units here. We'd love to hear from you too!
WWII ENGINEERS
Would love to hear from ANY combat engineers that particpated in WWII. Thanks for your participation. Your stories help everyone understand your important role in WWII.
GREAT TUNES FROM WWII
Click here to hear some great tunes from WWII. It's just the beginning, so check back soon.
AUDIO & VIDEO CLIPS FROM THE WAR
You'll find some of the famous and not so famous audio and video clips from the war.
TV SHOWS & FILM
Dedidated to your favorite WWII TV show, movies and videos. Share your favorites with us right here!
REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
NEW SECTION! Place anything here regarding newscasters, reporters, photographers; the men and women who brought us the latest from WWII!
RADIO DAYS
This forum is dedicated to the great radio programs in the 40's. Your wish is my command!
THE PAPA ART SECTION
Since Papa Art (Morneweck) is such a frequent contributor to this site. I have decided to move all his stories to his very own section. Bear with me as I move things around this week. So Art, anything pertaining to you and your buddies, etc. can go here. Is this not cool or what?
ALL VETS NEWS
Realized we needed another category that covered ANY news related to all VETS regardless of wars fought. So use this to post things about Veteran's Day, Veteran's benefits, etc.
CURRENT EVENTS
Post here anything related to the current war and other world-wide current events!
KOREAN WAR
Decided to start a section that is dedicated only to the Korean War, since many of our WWII vets also served in their too.
INTRODUCE YOURSELF
Welcome. Why don't you stop in and introduce yourself. We'd love to hear about you. Helps us to get to know each other, especially new members.
JOKES & FUN
Okay here's your own section for jokes & other "fun" stuff! We all need some ha-ha's from time to time! Posts will REMAIN for 30 days!
"VI CORPS FAMILY" PHOTOS
Decided it would be nice to have a place for OUR photos if you care to share!
READ THIS BEFORE YOU CONTACT ME FOR HELP!
If you are experiencing problems on our forum or just need to know how to do something, look here first. Answers may already be posted.