On Solid Ground: Army Values are the Foundation of USACE Transatlantic Division’s Mission

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division
Published Oct. 4, 2023
U.S. Army Col. Mohammed Z. Rahman, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Expeditionary District commander (left), speaks with Army Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division senior enlisted advisor (right), near Erbil Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 19. (U.S. Army photo by Rick Rzepka, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Expeditionary District public affairs office)

U.S. Army Col. Mohammed Z. Rahman, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Expeditionary District commander (left), speaks with Army Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division senior enlisted advisor (right), near Erbil Air Base, Iraq, Sept. 19. (U.S. Army photo by Rick Rzepka, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Expeditionary District public affairs office)

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division senior enlisted advisor (center), conducts a site visit of a modular billeting project aimed at improving the overall quality of life for military personnel stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 13. (U.S. Army photo by Catherine Carroll, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division public affairs office)

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division senior enlisted advisor (center), conducts a site visit of a modular billeting project aimed at improving the overall quality of life for military personnel stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, Sept. 13. (U.S. Army photo by Catherine Carroll, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division public affairs office)

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division senior enlisted advisor (right), and Eddie Johnson, Transatlantic Expeditionary District Engineering & Construction Division chief (left), ride in a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter after an inspection of Transatlantic Expeditionary District projects in Baghdad, Iraq Sept. 20. (U.S. Army photo by Rick Rzepka, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Expeditionary District public affairs office)

U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division senior enlisted advisor (right), and Eddie Johnson, Transatlantic Expeditionary District Engineering & Construction Division chief (left), ride in a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter after an inspection of Transatlantic Expeditionary District projects in Baghdad, Iraq Sept. 20. (U.S. Army photo by Rick Rzepka, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Expeditionary District public affairs office)

WINCHESTER, Va. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division stands as the Army Corps of Engineers’ tip of the spear in the global engineering, design, and construction landscape, uniquely positioned within the vast U.S. Army framework. Serving as an essential cornerstone in strengthening partnerships, building capacity, and enhancing security throughout the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility, the Division delivers agile, responsive, and innovative solutions for our nation, allies, and partners.

With a history of more than 70 years in the region, the Transatlantic Division oversees more than $5 billion in projects including military construction programs, force protection innovations, and security cooperation initiatives, strengthening Army readiness, enhancing vital infrastructure, and deepening global partnerships. Each action reinforces the Army's unwavering commitment to its service members and global partners.

Within this multifaceted mission, the Transatlantic Division’s workforce, comprising dedicated soldiers and Department of the Army civilians, stands as a testament to the Army values. Whether on the home front or in dynamic overseas environments, these individuals consistently demonstrate Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. Their unwavering commitment to these core principles not only drives the success of the Division but also embodies the very essence of what it means to be part of the U.S. Army family.

Command Sgt. Maj. Clifton D. Morehouse, the Transatlantic Division’s senior enlisted advisor, sheds light on the significance of these values in the day-to-day operations of the division.

"Army values aren't just a poster on the wall; they are the compass that directs every action of our Soldiers and civilian personnel within the Army Corps of Engineers," said Morehouse. "These values guide us, keeping us true to our mission and our commitment to the nation."

Morehouse takes pride in the Transatlantic Division’s steadfast commitment to the Army values, ensuring they serve as the bedrock of day-to-day operations. He asserts, "In every aspect of our work, our decisions echo the depth and integrity of our Army values. They stand as living principles, shaping our actions and ensuring we consistently meet the highest standards of service and dedication."

While each Army value is integral to the Division’s success, Morehouse places particular emphasis on the role of 'Integrity'. He elaborates, "Integrity is more than just doing the right thing; it’s about being consistently transparent, honest, and building a reputation for trustworthiness. This foundational value directly impacts the successful outcome of our projects and has earned us the unwavering trust of our partners."

Reflecting on the blend of military and civilian personnel within the Transatlantic Division, Morehouse is especially struck by the demonstration of 'Selfless Service'.

"The essence of 'Selfless Service' shines brightly among our civilian ranks,” Morehouse stated. “To ensure this ethos remains at the forefront, we invest in continuous training and mentorship. It's imperative to instill these values, and it starts by leading through example, showcasing commitment at every echelon of our organization."

Observing Morehouse in the field, it becomes evident that the Transatlantic Division’s values are not just administrative mandates, but living principles that guide the division's every move. At the heart of his leadership style, the core principles of 'Duty' and 'Respect' consistently emerge.

"Our team is entrusted with significant missions, with critical programs and projects," Morehouse exclaims, "and fulfilling those with respect for our partners and allies - and with each other – is paramount."

His emphasis on relationship-building within the CENTCOM AOR is apparent not just in his words, but also in his interactions. Morehouse often navigates complex discussions with an unwavering commitment to 'Loyalty' and 'Respect'.

"Our values fortify our bonds with our partners and allies in the CENTCOM AOR," he states confidently. "By staying true to these values, we establish relationships based on mutual trust and understanding."

In the Transatlantic Division’s rich mosaic of talent, many of its dedicated civilian workforce professionals are retired veterans, hailing from every branch of the military. These seasoned professionals not only bring with them the expertise of the Army, but also the distinctive strengths of the Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Regardless of their prior affiliations, the fact that they can all converge under the Army's values is a testament to the universal ethos of military service. This shared foundation of duty, respect, loyalty, and integrity forms the cornerstone of the Division’s operations.

As Morehouse succinctly stated, "While their prior uniforms may differ, their commitment to honor, courage, and the shared values that define us as military professionals remains unwavering. It's this foundation that brings us together, stronger as one."

No matter the strength and unity of a team, challenges are an inevitable part of any mission. It's the manner in which these challenges are addressed that defines the true mettle of an organization.

When challenges arise, Morehouse doesn't shy away. Instead, he turns to the foundational values that have long steered the organization. "Open dialogue, training, and leading by example," he asserts, "are our tools to bridge any gaps."

Drawing from this profound unity and deeply ingrained shared values, Morehouse states, "It's our collective commitment to collaboration that sets us apart. Mutual respect, understanding, and open communication are the driving forces behind our division's successes."

Observing him mentor young leaders is a lesson in leadership itself. Morehouse's approach is direct: "Live the values, don't just recite them." He envisions a strong future for the Transatlantic Division, noting, "I see the role of our Army Values as not just the ground we each stand on, they are the solid foundation we build upon together. As the Army Corps of Engineers evolves, these values will guide us through every challenge and opportunity."

As Morehouse reflects on the journey of the Transatlantic Division and its accomplishments, his words resonate profoundly. "Our commitment to the Army isn’t just a duty, it's an honor. It represents the best of who we are and reminds us of the legacy we're part of. Stand tall and proud on this foundation."

His statement serves as both a testament to the Division dedication and a rallying cry for future endeavors, reminding all of the deep-rooted values that drives the Army Corps of Engineers to ‘Be All It Can Be!’

The Army Values are a set of principles and standards that guide the behavior of all members of the U.S. Army, whether they are active-duty soldiers, reserves, or civilian affiliates. These values are:

• Loyalty: Bear true faith and allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, the Army, and other soldiers.
• Duty: Fulfill your obligations professionally and to the best of your ability.
• Respect: Treat others as they should be treated.
• Selfless Service: Put the welfare of the nation, the Army, and subordinates before your own.
• Honor: Live up to all the Army values.
• Integrity: Do what's right, both legally and morally.
• Personal Courage: Face fear, danger, or adversity, both physical and moral.

*The USACE Transatlantic Division and its Districts, Centers and Specialized Teams deliver agile, responsive, and innovative, design, construction, engineering and contingency solutions in support of U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Forces Command and other global partners to advance national security interests.

We deliver our program through two districts, the Transatlantic Middle East District, headquartered in Virginia, and the Transatlantic Expeditionary District, which combined the Division’s contingency operations assets as one optimized command, headquartered in Kuwait.


The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division serves as USACE’s tip of the spear in one of the most dynamic construction environments in the world, STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIPS, BUILDING CAPACITY, and ENHANCING SECURITY for our nation, allies, and partners. 

We deliver agile, responsive, and innovative, design, construction, engineering and contingency solutions in support of U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Operations Command and other global partners to advance national security interests.

Transatlantic Division News

  • October

    On Solid Ground: Army Values are the Foundation of USACE Transatlantic Division’s Mission

    With a history of more than 70 years in the region, the Transatlantic Division oversees more than $5 billion in projects including military construction programs, force protection innovations, and security cooperation initiatives, strengthening Army readiness, enhancing vital infrastructure, and deepening global partnerships. Each action reinforces the Army's unwavering commitment to its service members and global partners.
  • USACE Innovation: The Key to 'Building Strong' in the CENTCOM AOR

    For the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division, innovation is the essential energy that drives success. From the initial development phase of a project, through the design and construction, and well into the operational phase, innovation drives the relentless pursuit of excellence, supporting sustainable strategies and fostering the development of long-lasting, reliable solutions.
  • September

    USACE Transatlantic Division supports Typhoon Mawar disaster relief

    A staff member assigned to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division was activated and sent to Guam from June until July to assist FEMA, federal partners and territorial officials’ response to the typhoon which caused significant impacts to essential services throughout portions of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, including water, energy and transportation.
  • ‘Go Army, Beat Navy’: A Time-honored Rivalry Transformed into Integrated Partnership in Bahrain

    In a series of key leader engagements, U.S. Army Col. William C. Hannan, Jr., Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division commander, visited Bahrain on Sept. 11, to fortify the already strong inter-service partnerships with the Naval Forces Central Command and Naval Support Activity Bahrain.
  • August

    U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division participates in Eagle Resolve 2023

    Two staff members assigned U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division traveled to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, May 21- 25, 2023 to participate in Eagle Resolve 2023, a Combined Joint All-Domain exercise which improves interoperability on land, in the air, at sea, in space, and in cyberspace with the U.S. military and partner nations, enhances the ability to respond to contingencies, and underscores USCENTCOM's commitment to the Middle East.
  • June

    U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division welcomes individual mobilization augmentees for annual training

    Soldiers arrived here this month to participate in a variety of training and readiness events as part of their duties as individual mobilization augmentees assigned to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division.
  • Being All We Can Be – The Transatlantic Division’s 70+ year legacy remains an integral part of the U.S. Army's enduring story

    As the nation commemorates the U.S. Army's 248th birthday on June 14th, the Army Corps of Engineers stands as a strong pillar of support, reaffirming its indispensable role in fortifying the Army's mission. With a rich and storied history dating back to the Revolutionary War, the Army Corps of Engineers has steadfastly provided a strong foundation, showcasing its significance in diverse operations, infrastructure development, and disaster response efforts. The Army's enduring motto, "Be all you can be," resonates deeply with the Army Corps of Engineers and our collective commitment to Building Strong as we march forward to the shout of “Essayons! (Let us try).
  • Safety at the Tip of the Spear – USACE Transatlantic Division highlights Safety program across the CENTCOM AOR

    The Transatlantic Division serves as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ tip of the spear in one of the most dynamic construction environments in the world. Ensuring that building strong is synonymous with building safely, the Transatlantic Division’s Safety Office maintains an unwavering dedication to the well-being of the service members and civilians who execute the nearly $5 billion dollar program in support of U.S. Central Command, U.S. Special Forces Command and other global partners across the Middle East and Central Asia. The CENTCOM AOR presents unique and varied safety challenges, from diverse environments like deserts, seaports, and urban areas, to wide ranging cultural considerations and diversity of languages, as well as security considerations surrounding ongoing military operations. The Transatlantic Division and its Districts overcomes all of this and continues to set the standard for Safety programs in the region.
  • May

    USACE Transatlantic Division Reinforces Commitment to CENTCOM State Partnership Program at Adjutant General Conference

    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division made a significant impact at the U.S. Central Command's State Partnership Program Adjutant General Conference, held at the CENTCOM Headquarters, May 4-5, 2023. Scott Cilley, the Transatlantic Division’s Plans and Operations chief, represented the division at the conference, which convened Adjutant Generals from Arizona, Colorado, Montana, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia, along with senior CENTCOM officials and representatives from U.S. Army Central, U.S. Air Forces Central, U.S. Special Operations Command Central, U.S. Space Force Central, and the U.S. National Guard Bureau.
  • April

    U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division invests in our planet, plans to use native plants in landscaping

    A project manager assigned to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Middle East District, one of two districts under the Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division’s umbrella, shares how the Army Corps of Engineers is continuing to invest in green initiatives.