THE ROLE OF THE COMBAT ENGINEER

(SS PIONIER)

 

With only a shovel and bayonet you are needed to crawl

through mud to clear land mines in the pouring rain.

 

During a retreat you are  the last men out, as you are responsible for establishing a defensive barrier by laying mines. 

 

Under enemy fire you are needed to repair planks

or build a bridge for crossing.

 

In the dark of night you must slip into the freezing water to set up demolition charges for the bridge you leave in your wake.

 

The pressure put on the pioniers was great, but they took their jobs seriously, and held to the oath to stand strong.