Do you know why combat engineers are also known as Sappers? The name comes from the French word sappe (spade or trench) and became connected with military engineering during the 17th century. Trenches and tunnels were called “saps,” and their diggers came to be known as “sappers." Army Sappers are proficient at building bridges and roads, laying or clearing minefields, conducting demolitions, and constructing or repairing airfields so forces can accomplish their mission. Source: Encyclopedia Bri