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National Guard 133rd Engineer Battalion Won't Turn Infantry, Leave Maine

AUGUSTA, Maine — Members of the Maine Army National Guard will continue in their role as military engineers.

An announcement by the Maine Army National Guard Friday put an end to speculation that the storied 133rd Engineer Battalion could be converted into an infantry unit.

The adjutant general of the Maine National Guard, Brig. Gen. Gerald Bolduc, made the announcement Friday afternoon, saying he's pleased that all plans to convert the 133rd into infantry battalion had been officially scrapped.

Bolduc paid tribute to the professionalism of the combat engineering unit, who he said would be quick to respond to any natural disaster.

The news ends the uncertainly that began early last year when then-adjutant general, James Campbell, said Maine was being forced to consider replacing the engineering battalion due to the possible federal cuts.

Gov. Paul LePage eventually fired Campbell, saying he'd lost faith in him.