FOF April 2010

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Commanding OfficerCDR Dean VanderLey, CEC

Executive OfficerLCDR Kent Hendricks, CEC

Command Master ChiefCMDCM(SCW) Austin Leedom

Public Affairs OfficerMC1(SW/AW) Russell Stewart

“Focus on FOUR” is U.S. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR’s official familygram, printed with appropriated funds in accordance with NPPRP-35. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of NMCB FOUR. Comments and correspondence are encouraged and may be addressed to:NMCB FOUR PAOUnit 25284FPO AP 96601-4941

Commanding Officer 3Executive Officer 4Command Master Chief 5Chaplain’s Corner 6Sailor in the Spotlight 7Alfa Company 8Charlie Company 11Headquarters Company 13Convoy Security Element 14Det. Khandahar 15Det. Khilaguy 16Det. Konduz 17Det. Marmal 18Det. Meymaneh 19Det. Sharana 20Det. Water Well 23

Front Cover:MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan (April 13, 2010) Driller SW2(SCW) Taylor Reed keeps a practiced eye on the spinning shaft of the well drilling rig during sunset at the site of the new water well. Once the well is active, the camp will be independent of having water shipped in. (U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russell Stewart)

Back Cover:Photo-Illustration of some of the most recent Seabee Combat Warfare Specialists. (U.S. Navy photo-illustration by MC1 Russell Stewart)

You may also visit us on the web at:www.facebook.com/nmcb4

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Greetings Friends and Families of FOUR,

I am writing this month from Forward Operating Base Sharana, home to our largest remote Detail of NMCB FOUR Seabees. Our “East” Seabees out here are doing fantastic work, just like our Seabees in the North and South. They are working directly for an Army Brigade, an Army Brigade that has learned to love Seabees. We have built everything from living facilities, operations facilities, and shower/laundry/bathroom facilities to large aircraft maintenance shelters. By “building the battlefield,” FOUR’s Seabees are making a critical difference in the fight for Afghanistan. In the North, FOUR’s Seabees are continuing to build our home and expand it for others. In what I describe as a FEX on

steroids, FOUR has taken what was uneven pastureland inhabited by sheep and donkeys and turned it into a massive camp, completely built and secured by Seabees. Now that we have paved the way, the Army is starting to move into their new home there as well. At this point, the celebrity status of Seabees in Afghanistan is ours to lose. It continues to be a pleasure to lead the great men and women of NMCB FOUR. You should all be very proud of your Seabee loved ones in Afghanistan. They are working very hard and making a huge difference to the overall mission. Thank you all for everything you do on the homefront. We couldn’t do it without you.

God Bless,CDR Dean VanderLeyCommanding Officer, NMCB FOUR

A collection of photo’s from FOB Sharana U.S

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Friends and families of FOUR,

Greetings from Deh Dadi, Afghanistan! With each passing week, much has changed in the last month. The deployment continues to see our troops doing great things around the country, north, east, and south. The rains in the north have burned off and the weather has been very nice, hinting of hot summer days with some 90 degree weather already. The mainbody camp at Deh Dadi continues to grow in size and occupancy. We have constructed a weight room tent and cardio fitness tent. The MWR tents will follow shortly with DSN phones, internet café, game room, library, and movie area. The field galley has improved drastically. The 3-4 weeks of eating MREs are past now as the CS and FSA crews are in full swing cooking and serving hot, fresh meals daily, much to the delight of all Seabees at Deh Dadi. We’re approaching the halfway point of deployment so we’re gearing up for our over-the-hump picnics at all locations. This includes back in homeport as well. The Family Readiness Group is hosting a family Half-Way Party on Saturday, 15 May (Armed Forces Day) from 1230-4pm located at Point Mugu Picnic Pavillion. The FRG has a great group of ladies putting the party together. Nicole Ostroske, Bridget Harmen and Yeisy Balmaceda are planning on hamburgers/hotdogs, face painting, jumpy house, DJ, popcorn machine, cotton candy, kids pictures in FTX gear, balloon drop with First Kiss Tickets, and plenty of prizes and goodies for everyone. These ladies will need a few folks to volunteer to bring salads and desserts. There will also be a Half-Way Party Cake for everyone. The overall POC for the Half-Way Party is the FRG email, [email protected]. We’ve also had quite a burst in our Seabee Combat Warfare (SCW) qualifications this month. Nine highly motivated Seabees finished up their final boards this month. Congratulations to our latest SCWS qualified Seabees:

EO3 Jimmie Snaric LS2 Alvin Henry LS3 RutherfordHM2 Domingo Duke EOCN Kyle Snow HMC James OglesbyHM2 Christina Demos BU3 Sherry Clark HM2 Joshua VanderLeyLT George Fulton HM3 Adrian Eady HM2 Oscar MoralesCECN Nara Eim BU2 Erik Pimentel Thanks for all you do; your support, sacrifice, hard work, and perseverance is crucial to our continued success! Thanks for the support from everyone back home! God bless you.

LCDR Kent HendricksNMCB FOUREXECUTIVE OFFICER

mailto:[email protected]

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Families and friends of FOUR, this is my last Focus on Four article. Next month I will transfer from the Navy’s Finest Mobile Construction Battalion to Amphibious Construction Battalion One in Coronado, California. Command Master Chief Charles “Buck” Thomas will be relieving me. I have been truly blessed to have been given the opportunity to serve with the hundreds of motivated, dedicated Seabees that are now and have been in FOUR during my tour. As I travel through the flight terminals on my way to visit the numerous detail sites here in Afghanistan it is common for complete strangers from other branches of our armed forces to approach me and tell me of the great things your Seabees are accomplishing throughout the country. The work ethic, professionalism and “CAN DO” attitude of these young Seabees are what legends are made of; FOUR has raised the bar and reset

the standard here in country! As the FABULOUS FOUR BEES write another chapter in our already legendary history, the accomplishments of this deployment will be the foundation of many future sea stories. The Officers, Chiefs and Petty Officers are providing outstanding leadership and guidance to the work crews. The crews are always encouraged to accept each and every assignment as a challenge and to accomplish their tasking in a safe and professional manner. As the crews set their goals and work hard each and every day to accomplish them, time moves by very rapidly. I encourage all of you at home, waiting on your loved ones to return, to become an active participant in our Family Readiness Group and I hope that time will also move by very rapidly for you too. Hang in there; the “Over the Hump” (halfway point) of this deployment is quickly approaching, in just a few short months your Seabee will be back in beautiful southern California. Friends and family members, as I depart FOUR and look back on my tour, I thank each and every one of you for the support you have provided during the last few years. To the BEES of FABULOUS FOUR, I will miss you and look forward to taking with me your inspirational “CAN DO” attitude on to my next duty station.

OOH-RAH FOUR!CMDCM Austin Leedom

Master Chief Leedom around FOB Deh Dadi

U.S. Navy photo’s by MC1 Russell Stewart

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Blessings to all!

The RMT is going strong. Many Bible studies and services are taking place by lay leaders in FOUR. It is very exciting to know that several DETS are getting a chance to enjoy their time with fellow believers. We have been setting up the new Chapel Tent at Deh Dadi II. We have the Bee Free store for necessary items of interest. Further, we have musical instruments and a small library as well. We are especially excited about our United Through Reading room. If you are not familiar with the idea—it is a program whereby Seabees can come in, pick out a book or three and record 25 minutes of reading/sharing time with their child, a niece, a nephew, or family. For that matter since Mother’s and Father’s Day is just around the corner—then maybe your Seabee can read a story that meant something to them growing up and say thank you for being a parent. Perhaps you want your Seabee to read to a school class or yourself, so send a book with return postage paid envelope in the mail---makes it REAL EASY for you to get it back. Keep those prayers/care packages/cards coming!

Chaplain Catherine PaceLT, CHC, USN

U.S. Navy photo by LT Catherine Pace

U.S. Navy photo by LT Catherine Pace

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tBy LS3 Darlene Kemble Information Technician Seaman Juan Trujillo of Fabens, Texas joined the U.S. Navy with one main goal: to do something different; to do something amazing. Four and a half months before his 18th birthday, he did just that as he arrived at Great Lakes for his first day of boot camp. Born November 29, 1991, Trujillo is the youngest member of NMCB FOUR, but you couldn’t tell by the amount of work he accomplishes. Arriving at FOUR on January 05, 2010, two weeks prior to deployment, Trujillo quickly adapted to the Seabees “Can Do” attitude, volunteering to dig trenches, help with heavy lifting, and run errands when he isn’t busy tending to trouble calls on computers, printers, and communications equipment. In the three weeks he has been at FOB Deh Dadi, he has laid 2600ft of telephone wire to 5 bunkers throughout the camp and set up 4000ft of network cable from the office spaces to the main communication center. His primary duty is issuing radios daily to the battalion’s convoy vehicle commanders prior to their departure from camp. The work that Trujillo puts out does not go unnoticed. On April 16, as he was inventorying gear, he was awarded with a NMCB FOUR Command Coin from Master Chief Leedom. “I got a command coin from Master Chief! It made me feel proud of my work,” he tweeted to Facebook. The following day, he was shocked to learn that he had been awarded Sailor in the Spotlight. “It was a huge honor,” he said with a gleaming smile, “I felt like in what little time I have been in the command, I have already accomplished a lot and if you try your hardest, people will notice.” Wise words from a young Seabee. Trujillo, known as “Tru” back home in Fabens, has wanted to be in the military since he was in middle school. In high school he participated in NJROTC while his brother and sister enlisted in the US Army. His sister, Specialist Trujillo, is a Military Policeman who will be stepping off in two weeks for her second tour in Iraq and his brother, veteran Sergeant Trujillo, spent four years working on patriot missile launchers in Okinawa and Kuwait. “I wanted to do something different while still being part of my family’s military history,” he explains, “which is why I picked the

Navy.” FOUR can only expect more great things to come as Trujillo is already working towards his Seabee Combat Warfare pin and his 3rd class Petty Officer chevron after only 3 months in the command. Congratulations Trujillo. Trujillo also would like to include a “shout-out” to his family: “Mom, Dad, y todo familia, thank you for always being there for me. Thank you for all of your support and prayers. I love you.”

ITSN Juan Trujillo

U.S. Navy photo by IT1 Kelly Seay

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FOB Deh Dadi Luxuries & AmenitiesBy LTJG Percival C. Palomar

NMCB FOUR continues to expand Forward Operating Base, Deh Dadi, from pasture land into a functional base. Hours of dedicated work were put into what has become the mainbody’s very own home. Although D2 (Deh Dadi’s nickname), is nothing like Port Hueneme, amenities are slowly popping up throughout camp that make this place a reasonable substitute. After a few weeks of Meals-Ready-to-Eat as the only dining option, Alfa Company welcomed the opening of the camp galley. Although people will miss the egg and cheese omelets MREs, they’re not complaining about the hot food served by CSC Martin Malana and his crew. Variety seems to be the motto for the cooking staff, offering different menus for every meal of the day. If a Seabee misses a meal do to operational requirements, the galley staff has opened a 24/7 snack bar so that no one will ever go hungry. In addition to the good food, Seabees now have the opportunity to blow off steam at the two gym tents that were erected on camp. Commander Dean Vanderley made the fitness areas a top priority, realizing the need for all personnel to be physically fit. One tent contains high-end weightlifting equipment, while the other tent sports cutting-edge treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines, and bicycles. No matter what an individual’s goals are, they are able to have an all-around fitness program.

Facebooking is alive and well within D2 and can be credited to the communication department. This allows people the ability to keep in touch with their family and friends back home, a necessity for sanity in this part of the world. The S6 shop also supplied two DSN Morale Lines for use at any time. Within the next few weeks, the Battalion will be receiving an Internet and DSN Café that will improve communication back home even more. On the horizon, more amenities will

be appearing. MWR Officer, LT Jeremy Patelzick, is dedicated to ensuring all Seabees have the things they need for a home away from home. Also in the works is an MWR Tent that will provide video games, board games, and books for people to enjoy. For people back home who worry about the working hours, rest assured knowing that their Seabee’s hard day’s work is rewarded with numerous recreational activities and fine dining.

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U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russell Stewart

CS2(SW) Carl Haney prepares “to-go” meals for the camps security forces who are unable to come to the Galley Tent while on watch, ensuring every Seabee here gets a hot meal.

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Not Just Building Tent DecksBy CMCN Timothy Ryan

Seabees all know the motto: “With compassion for others we build, we fight for peace with freedom. Seabee can do.” The stubborn presence of the Taliban serves as a daily reminder of who we are fighting, but what exactly are Seabees building in northern Afghanistan?

NMCB FOUR’s mission objectives are simple, yet substantial. One of their many projects is to build a huge Forward Operating Base (FOB) out of a rolling pasture that will house thousands of Army troops and all of their necessary supplies and equipment. Included are multiple galleys, office buildings, multiple Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities, several gyms, and numerous other facilities. As NMCB FOUR gears up for May, the project is developing steadily into a FOB that any military or civilian construction crew would be proud to brag about building. But is that the limit of what Seabees can

do? One Afghani businessman explains his feelings to the contrary. Mohammed Hariz, age approximately 33 (actual age unknown due to the lack of a birth record), owns General Supply Company, a construction material supplier serving the Mazar-e-Sharif area. He supplies gravel and other materials to NMCB FOUR’s project sites. Originally from Panj Cheri (Dari for “Five Tigers”) in Northern Afghanistan, Hariz fled to Europe in 1998 as the Taliban gained control of the northern Afghanistan. “There was no safety for us,” Hariz recalls. “Everyday there was fighting and [car-jackers] stopping the vehicles and taking money and taking [anything else of value]. It was not safe to go anywhere in the night time.” He notes that many, like him, fled to Europe or to Pakistan to avoid not only the Taliban, but the overall crime and violence that the Taliban’s rule instigated. The threat of violence was too dangerous and the future too uncertain. Now things are more stable in northern Afghanistan. NATO troops have uprooted the Taliban and Seabees are building more than just tent decks and timber towers; they’re building respect for their own cause. They’re building the relationships with the local populace that is essential to overall mission success. And most importantly, they’re building trust within the local community.

(Not Just Building continued on page 10)

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CMCN Robert Smith hooks up a tow strap to a stuck Afghani truck

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(Not Just Building from page 9) Today, Afghanis like Hariz are returning to Afghanistan. Hariz felt confident and safe to return to his homeland “…when the Marines came in 2002.” “It’s safe to work and make money now,” Hariz said. Currently, Hariz works with over 300 delivery drivers, (over 60 delivering to just one Seabee project site). That equates to food brought home to families on over 60 local dinner tables, from just from one Seabee project. Perhaps the vast improvements can be seen when the local children take time-outs from their soccer games to wave and smile at the convoys of Seabees passing by. Or perhaps the improvements can be heard in the cool, still nights, free of the sounds of screaming and gunfire. The only “round” object darting at the locals here are soccer balls. Despite everything that’s being accomplished by the troops on the ground here, back home our relations with the local population are not always as clearly understood. When asked if there was anything he’d like to say to the American people not serving in Afghanistan about the relations here, Hariz had this to say: “The [Afghani] people love the foreign people. They understand why [the foreign troops] are here. And they are learning from these people.” This feeling, he said, is not just his own but it is shared by many of his employees as well as families and businessmen in throughout the region. Hariz had this to say about the future of America’s presence in Afghanistan: “You guys can stay here ten years, twenty years, forty years; as long as we understand [each other] no questions, no problems.” As the sun began to set on a flock of sheep being led through a bumpy pasture across the long, steely, shadow of an abandoned Soviet tank, those from far away can better understand the half-century of bloody conflict that tore this land apart and, more importantly, our mission as Seabees to rebuild what we did not destroy. The quality of a building can be easily assessed, but not so easily the quality of trust and relationships. If one small child safe from the threat of ignorant violence is any indication of progress, then, shipmates, we are well on our way.

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A heap of derelict equipment and vehicles, residue from the Soviet era.

Sameh, employee of General Supply Company enjoys his first-ever Rice Krispy Treat

Local herders tend thier flocks near an abandoned Soviet vehicle

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Charlie Company atFOB Deh Dadi

By BU3 Justin Castaneda

When the first Seabees from Charlie Company arrived at Camp Spann on February 15th they never knew what to expect. The nice hilly scenery that overlooked Camp Spann was a change of scenery from our first stop at Kandahar.

(Charlie Co. continued on page 12)

Bridge Class at Kandahar, AfghanistanBy BU3(SCW) David Madmon

A group of twelve Seabees from NMCB FOUR had a task; to learn how to set up and install an Acrow 700XS bridge. This will be the new type of bridge being installed throughout Afghanistan. These twelve Seabees took the challenge head on. They were lead by BUC(SCW) Mark Kampmann and through the course of instruction they acquired valuable knowledge and skills. This knowledge will create an impact in the ISAF soldier’s quality of life and in the local Afghani community. During the course they learned multiple ways in which this bridge can be erected. They also learned how to set up the bridge in a contingency environment; which requires doing the job safely, but faster. “This type of bridge is very versatile, and the fast setup can create an impact on many people’s lives, I would like to see projects with this bridge very soon” comments by Crew Leader of the class BU2 (SCW) Anthony Mormon.

“This class was the ideal tool to build teamwork skill and more importantly to become acquainted with each other better; since most of us had never worked together. We all have learned new techniques, acquiring valuable new knowledge. The greatest impact came across at the end of the class, when I saw a stronger and united team. I am very confident in this crew’s ability to accomplish any task assigned to them,” commented Chief Kampmann.

Charlie Company

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Looking over the completed bridge structure

BU2(AW) Erik Pimentel in the Charlie Company Pre-Fab yard

BU3 Madmon guiding a bridge deck piece into position

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(Charlie Co. from page 11) The amount of people at Camp Spann was small at the beginning. But with the Camp expansion looming and the surge of troops just three months away it painted a different picture to all of us. We knew the road ahead was going to be rough. We also knew it was going to be full of accomplishments in which we could demonstrate the tenacity of NMCB FOUR Seabees. The mainbody then moved to Deh Dadi II to continue with the expansion. One month later we have built 38 berthing tents. These comfortably house 12 Seabees each and all their much needed gear and personal morale items. Life support items, including shower units and latrine units have been installed, thanks to the hard work the Camp Maintenance crew puts in day after day. The galley has been erected and is now fully operational. Hot meals are a commodity considering our location. For us MRE’s are just once a day now; which greatly improves our quality of life. The Seabee’s genuine dedication toward their mission has led to a major discovery. Some make use of the instant coffee that comes inside the MRE and add it to the Gatorade nutrition shakes. This innovation makes the perfect cappuccino to jump start their day or afternoon and continue with our daily mission.

“I know the next group of Seabees are going to enjoy what we are building for them; we are giving our best everyday to improve our camp,” says BUCN Matthew Arthur. “It’s tough work to do, but hey someone’s got to do it; someone had to start from nothing, and what better battalion than NMCB FOUR,” says BU3 Joshua Hanover. We are really looking forward to the completion of this camp knowing that when we are relieved; the next battalion is going to continue with the Seabee’s mission at RC North.

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BUCN Matthew Arthur working in the Charlie Co. Pre-Fab yard making trusses

CE2(SCW) Carlo Ceunca working on a “Spyder Box” to provide electrical distibution for berthing areas

BU2 Daniel Smith uses a “Chop Saw” to trim lumber being used to make trusses in the Pre-Fab yard

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“Come and Get It!”NMCB FOUR Celebrates the Grand Opening of the Galley

at FOB Deh Dadi.By LS3 Darlene Kemble

As the work day came to an end on April 2, 2010, NMCB FOUR Seabees lined up for the grand opening of the first dining facility on Camp Deh Dadi II. With tongs in hand and service with a smile, the Officers’ Wardroom and Chiefs’ Mess served the first hot meal to 289 personnel. The dinner, which took NMCB FOUR’s Culinary Specialists over 5 hours to prepare, consisted of short-ribs, chicken, macaroni and cheese, Mexican-style corn, and assorted fruits and pastries. “You can see how much it means to each individual Seabee,” explains CS2(SS) Cesar Torres, “just to sit in a cool environment with a hot meal and cold beverage at the end of the work day. It makes a big difference when it comes to morale.”

Built by our Seabees from the ground up in 14 days, the galley is equipped with a BEAR I-550 Field Kitchen. The kitchen, valued at over half a million dollars, is the first look into a real field mess for most of the CS’s. “The quality of the equipment is better than we expected,” boasts CS3 Amy Chapa, who is on her third deployment with FOUR. “It’s a little more sophisticated than what we have used in the past, but it’s nothing we can’t handle.” Work production shows that there is, indeed, nothing that they cannot handle. With only nine Culinary Specialists, the galley pushes out 1200 meals per day, including 40 hot plates which are boxed up and delivered directly to the security team at their watch posts. The galley’s current menu consists of a hot breakfast and dinner with an MRE lunch but will soon be conducting 24-hour operations

to accommodate those Seabees on the night shift. “We want to ensure that everyone gets a hot meal,” says CS3 Jonathan Evans, “The night crew deserves a morale boost just like everyone else.” To further increase morale, the galley is currently in the planning stages of special meals for upcoming events such as the Change of Command Ceremony and the infamous Over-the-Hump Party. Serving his first deployment with FOUR, CSC Martin Malana proudly says of his team, “None of this would be possible without our CS’s. They are doing well even though assets are limited. I am very proud of them.”

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CS3 Francis Deodatti grilling omelettes for the breakfast meal

CS2(SS) Cesar Torres and CS3 Francis Deodatti preparing watermelon

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Team AnacondaBy BU3(SCW) Sherry Clark

FOB Deh Dadi, Afghanistan NMCB FOUR Convoy Security Element - Team ANACONDA continues their tactical supporting efforts in RC-North and gets a little taste of the Afghanistan culture at the same time. The CSE team job takes them outside the wire on a daily basis, coming in contact with the local populace. Driving through villages and towns the NMCB FOUR CSE team is what the locals see. The team makes a conscious effort to follow Afghan traffic laws and stay friendly with the local populace. CSE waves to the little kids and throws them water, and sometimes even candy. The children run next to the convoy waving and giving the thumbs up symbol in hopes to get a wave back and maybe even a treat. At the village nearest to camp the team will even stop and make a trade. A bottle water for some local homemade bread a common exchange. “The bread is delicious,” says BU1(SCW) Adalberto Corona, vehicle commander of Truck 4. The people smile and let the convoy pass even though it’s an inconvenience to them having huge trucks roll through their little towns. “I am pretty sure we make the kids day when we come through, they will run as fast as they can, with a smile ear to ear yelling and waving, it’s pretty cool, you almost feel like a rockstar,” comments BU3 Ricky Argote. The CSE team is not only responsible for the tactical transport of personnel and equipment, but they have the delicate task of maintaining the fine line of protective posture and friendly interaction. “It’s hard to be protective and interact with the people; safety of our people is number one. We want the Afghan people to see us in a good light, but also don’t want to look like an easy target,” says BU2 (SCW) Heather Olsen, vehicle commander of Truck 5. Maintaining protective posture and good rapport are both priorities on every CSE mission. “The people seem to still like us so we must be doing something right,” says BUCN Chris Vaughn. Over the next few months Team ANACONDA will continue working on public relations with the Afghan people and continue to remain safe on Afghanistan’s highways.

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Seabees Enjoy a Challenge!By CM3 Kurtis Woody

Detachment RC SOUTH Khandahar Air Field (KAF)

After removing an 1100 container backlog to help get the Supply Support Activity back on track, they have been paving the way staying ahead of the surge of 2800 containers at an average of 120 per day. Our Seabees work hand in hand with Army, civilian contractors, and local nationals to escort through the base gate, process, and remove from the container, products for commands in Kandahar, Afghanistan. We also set up delivery of products to surrounding Forward Operating Bases throughout the country. All branches of service and contractors alike benefit from our hard work.

These eight hard chargers never stop; even doing earthwork to improve the SSA grounds after a major flood hit leaving a five-foot lake in the middle of the yard. There is little gravel and no concrete or asphalt. The ground quickly turns to powder under the constant load of heavy equipment, so they need to constantly water and compact the ground or in a month’s time we would be standing knee deep in dirt the consistency of talcum powder. BU1(SCW) Gregorio Hueramo leads the embark evolutions for materials, personnel and equipment need for NMCB FOUR to sustain supplies, and also does various self help projects around KAF.

We have several things to celebrate, CM1(SCW) John Ledford and CMC(SCW) Nathan Chun both had birthdays and celebrated by way of working parties, and Ledford was recently selected for the Limited Duty Officer Program and will be pinned in January!

U.S. Navy photo by CM3 Kurtis Woody



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Seabees Answer Call to Build Another Camp

By CE2 Neal Walker

The detachment started operations in Camp Marmal. The work entailed construction of a 400-man tent camp, a battalion aid station, exchange, and even showers and bathroom facilities. The biggest hurdle for the DET was the 12,000 cubic meters of gravel necessary to cover the entire site and the Hesco barriers required for perimeter walls spanning 2000 meters in length. When the day is over, most troops head to the computer lab for e-mail, Skype, and Yahoo messenger, it provides plenty of time to keep the troops connected with their families. “I like this camp because it is small in numbers and less crowded. The free internet is a big plus,” states UT3 Devin Boyette. As time progressed, new orders were given and set their sights towards a camp high in the Hindu Kush mountains. After a one hour helicopter ride, they jumped off and were taken aback by the spectacular view of the mountainous terrain. CE2 Peter Manalang expresses “The camp is very small and quiet and the view here is amazing.” The task was simple; build a compound to support U.S forces coming into Afghanistan. However, building a camp with ever-changing plans and material delays, the ingenuity and determination of the DET was needed to meet the requirements. A factor affecting the Bees would be the weather. One hour the sun is shining and beaming down, the next hour clouds roll over and start pouring rain. Although a difficult, weather could not stop the production of DET Khilaguy. The crew moved forward towards mission accomplishment. Although limited in size and capacity, the camp does have a few things to offer the troops. In the off time, many guys of the DET like to go to the gym consisting of three benches, a small set of weights and two treadmills. Sharing this facility with 30 Hungarians, the Seabees find ways to make it work. Another commodity is a small Afghani store. The little shop, about the size of a backyard storage shed, offers some knick knacks, souvenirs, sodas, energy drinks, and a few snacks.

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BU2 Marcos Celaya and crew nailing down tent deck sheeting necessary to sustain 300+ troops

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EO3 Scott Canaan finishing up the leveling operations with grading the rest of the project site

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DET Khilaguy getting ready for their flight

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UT3 Devin Boyette, EO3 Scott Canaan, EACN Michael McFadden, and UT3 Travis Quilling enjoy time in the computer lab

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By MSgt Paul Tholen Seabees from NMCB FOUR, homeported in Port Hueneme, Calif., are performing a critical Forward Operating Base expansion mission. EO3 Jillian Stonis says “Our mission is to provide vertical and horizontal construction. We have learned that without being a team, nothing can accomplished.” Expanding the FOB presented many obstacles, including an extremely narrow timeline, cold weather, real estate issues, sinkholes, trenches, and debris. FOUR met the challenge with the “Can Do” attitude that has emboldened the U.S. Navy Seabees for almost 70 years, by working around the clock to create a new FOB perimeter, expanding it over 200% in less than 2 months. The FOB expansion has allowed Coalition Forces to bed down in support of the Presidential directed surge in Afghanistan. BU3 Garrett O’Brien, says “we’re here to support them.”

By LT Jonathan Higdon Master Sergeant Paul Tholen, re-enlisted on April 7, 2010 at Forward Operating Base Konduz, Afghanistan. Attending the ceremony, BU1 Phillip Brewer, said “I am proud to see him continue his service to our country.” Tholen has the unique opportunity and challenge of leading a Detachment of Seabees as an U.S Air Force Non-Commissioned Officer in a forward operating environment. Tholen is continuing service to our Nation and leading by example at the “tip of the spear.” As part of a U.S. Air Force-U.S. Navy exchange program, he is permanently attached to NMCB FOUR for three years. The re-enlisting Officer was LCDR Miguel Dieguez.

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LCDR Miguel Dieguez re-enlists MSgt Paul Tholen

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Seabees from Det Konduz install a new HESCO barrier wall “outside the wire”

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BUCS (SCW) Cloves Tennis congratulates MSgt Paul Tholen following the ceremony

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EOCN Ryan Darr in an up-armored Front End Loader fills HESCO barriers

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By BU3(SCW) Nathan Britton

For Seabees in Afghanistan, it’s not uncommon to receive an order and roger up to the call of duty at the drop of a dime. Regardless of the mission, Seabees of NMCB FOUR have met the challenges in a professional manner. On April 3rd, a cool Saturday evening in Camp Marmal, Afghanistan, approximately 250 gallons of diesel fuel spilled at the External Receiving Fuel Point. The Seabees were requested to assist in an emergency clean up effort. UT1(SCW) Jason Micklewright and EO2 Zachary Beam grabbed their gear and teamed up with the German Hazmat Team to tackle the cleanup of the contaminated soil. During a routine download of fuel at the External Receiving Fuel Point, located outside of Camp Marmal’s perimeter fence, an Afghani “jingle truck” broke a fuel valve. The back-up valve failed and the contents of the fuel truck were emptied onto the road. The spilled fuel was sinking into the ground when Petty Officers Micklewright and Beam arrived with their equipment and began to dig, remove, and relocate the contaminated soil. Once the contaminated soil was removed, our Seabees call it a night and on the following day, Beam along with EO2 Justin Marby completed the mission that began the night before; by covering the hole made by removal of all the contaminated soil. These young and motivated Seabees spent their afternoon refilling and compacting the 15 foot deep hole. The work didn’t end here, Petty Officers Beam and Marby created a containment ditch lined with rubber sheeting

along the fuel station as preventative measures should a spill of this magnitude happen again. “This isn’t the first, and it won’t be the last time we get a work call like this, you know. Things like this may be unexpected, but they’re no surprise, and I’m always proud to meet a new challenge.” says Petty Officer Beam. Time and time again, Seabees have been requested for their quick reaction, flexibility and dedicated hard working spirit.

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onEO2 Justin Marby and UT3 Travis Quilling drive anchors with a jack-hammer for a LAMS-A (Clamshell) tent

BU3 Lauren Nikaido levels off the top of a HESCO barrier at the fuel farm project in Camp Marmal

CE2 Roberto Manalang inserts a pin, securing a purlin, in preparation to lift a LAMS-A (Clamshell) tent

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Local KidsBy CMCN Daniel Thelen

Lately, in Forward Operating Base Meymaneh, the Seabees of NMCB FOUR have been winning the hearts and minds of the local village children. Every day we work hard through all the fury of Mother Nature to complete our mission of expanding the FOB. Every day we are hard at work and the children are right there wanting to play, screaming “ball, ball!” Like anyone would do, we give them what we can. How do you tell kids you don’t have any food? They know better. So we have to give them stuff one child at a time because they always want more and more and its funny, you can see the hand full of candy and they act like you didn’t give them anything at all.

They always seem to know when we go to lunch because when we leave, there will only be three or four and when we return, there are upwards of fifteen to twenty. The other day we came across a softball and the crew had to take a break, and when I say crew, I also mean the upper chain of command. We taught them to play monkey in the middle. They enjoyed that a lot especially when one of us was the monkey in the middle. It’s nice to see how much they enjoy being around us.

It’s definitely a culture shock compared to what we see in the states. Children no older than five, herding goats and cattle through a field, and when they see us they have a smile as big as any. They always seem to want to stop in the same place and come over to play. It’s funny seeing them when they leave and try to separate their herds from one another. We give them simple stuff like balls of foam wrapped in electrical tape and they cherish it. Every day they make it an adventure for us, always seeming to keep a smile on our faces.

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EO2 Chance Keiter, EO3 Jasper Pettie, CMCN Thelen, and SW3 Yohannes Nigusie stand back and referee a game of catch

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SW3 Yohannes Nigusie and CMCN Steven McAlister posing for photos with local boys

SW3 Yohannes Nigusie making the tough decision as to which kids get the candy

A local boy gives a big smile for the camera as SW3 Yohannes Nigusie plays with the rest

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Seabees Cooperate With Local Nationals to Make an Impact at Sayed Abad

By LT Pete Cali

On March 17th, Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR arrived at Sayed Abad. Initially tasked with the site assessment for a major expansion, these Bees have made a lasting impression by executing a myriad of quality of life and force protection improvements. BU3 Justin Wesoloski has provided vertical construction expertise to the camp via numerous carpentry projects. He and his team of two Local National carpenters have worked together to construct new stairs for the motor pool admin spaces, benches, stairs, hygiene shelves ,and cleaning supply cabinets for the Life Support Services units, and the refurbishment of several billeting “B Huts”. “They are learning current construction skills and techniques while using American tools, such as battery powered saws and drills,” said Wesoloski. Additionally, BU3 repaired the stairs for a guard tower, storage shelves for Post Office and communications MILVAN, and several doors. To summarize his efforts here, BU3 added, “I have learned that projects that may seem simple to me are huge to someone who isn’t an engineer; and it goes a long way.” CM2 Joshua Karr has also been very busy executing horizontal tasking. He has directed eight Local National employees using contracted equipment to dramatically enhance the camp’s layout. His team has already finished the relocation of the Ammunition Supply Point, and has began the more substantial task of constructing a new internal camp road, site preparation for Force Provider tents and Dining Facilities. When asked about the challenges that come with working

with Local Nationals, CM2 stated, “…One of the toughest jobs I have ever had to do. Since they don’t speak English it took a little getting used to, but we got the hang of it with a “Can Do” attitude.” When CM2 hasn’t been directing horizontal operations, he has been executing them. He has operated the camp’s Bobcat to improve the mortar pit, dug a trench for the observation camera, and leveled a Kalat wall for the ASP. Everyone is staying extremely busy to improve the quality of life in the camp and to prepare for our mission of expanding living

quarters. Soon, an additional squad of Seabees will arrive at Sayed Abad to construct billeting tents, DFAC’s, and eight Super B Huts, virtually doubling the camp’s personnel capacity.

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BU3 Justin Wesoloski repairs a door for a berthing

CM2 Joshua Karr prepares the area for a retaining wall with a Bobcat

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NMCB FOUR Prepares Camp for ArmyBrigade in Sharana

By BUCN Jenell Chase

On March 2nd 2010, a detail of 160 Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR deployed to the Regional Command East to assist in the expansion of area Forward Operations Bases. Upon arrival to FOB Sharana, DET RC-East was immediately tasked with the construction of multiple buildings, latrine facilities and installation of electrical and communication wiring. NMCB FOUR will be constructing Tactical Operation Centers, additional berthing and increasing force protection measures in support of the force expansion in Afghanistan. “Sharana is a particularly small base, at the moment there is barely enough space for the current forces onboard. These projects will have a grave impact on the

quality of life and surge of forces coming through the FOB,” said BU3(SCW) Robert Russell. Several of the projects being constructed on FOB Sharana are for the HounDawgs, the Army 203rd Engineer Battalion. To prepare for the 203rd, DET RC-East is currently constructing three 18’ x 42’ latrine and shower facilities which will add an additional 25 sinks, 18 toilets, 16 showers and five urinals. One of the shower facilities will also double as a laundromat, which will include seven washers, eight dryers and folding stations. “It’s about a seven minute walk to the

nearest showers and laundry services, from our berthing area. Finishing this project on time is a necessity. As a crew leader for building one of the latrines, I personally am very eager to complete this project for the 203rd,” said Russell. In addition to the shower facilities, DET RC-East is also constructing a TOC and a 36-room SEAHUT for use as a female berthing. “Being that this is my first deployment, one thing I truly enjoy is doing construction every day. Being here, living and working with the people in my battalion, you really get to know one another. I truly enjoy the closeness and the bonds we are making as we work, learn and share everything with one another,” said BUCR Angela Ebert. In an effort to complete the projects in a timely fashion the Seabees of DET RC-East are on a 24 hour work rotation, and are currently working 6 ½ days a week. As the surge for more troops builds up in Afghanistan, DET RC-East will carry out construction operations throughout this and outlying FOB’s within Eastern Afghanistan.

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BUCR Angela Ebert placing concrete reinforcement with fellow Seabees BUCN Alexander Taylor and BU3 BriceRoberts

BU3(SCW) Robert Russell finishing concrete for the “HounDawg Hill” shower facilities

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Awards on DeploymentBy UTCN Jamal Dowdy

On April 5, 2010, members of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR DET Regional Command East were presented command coins and letters of appreciation for their outstanding performance in completing critical projects during their first month at FOB Sharana by Lieutenant Colonel Anthony Adrian, Commander, 203rd Engineer Battalion and CDR Brian Hyot. During the assembly, CDR Hoyt presented letters of appreciation (LOAs) to several Seabees from detachment RC-East for their efforts in constructing crucial additional office space for USAID personnel. “I felt appreciated when given this award during the assembly; I think its good they give out awards for the hard work that goes on while on deployment. It is definitely a morale booster,” said BUCN Douglas Lane.

Paktika Providence Reconstruction TeamLetter of Appreciation:BU3 Jonathan AertsSW3 Troy Franklin CE2 Darwin GarzaCECR Nicole JernigansmithBUCN Douglas LaneCE3 Nathan MortimerBUCN Michael OrrantiaCE2 Isabelo Reyes

LTC Adrian awarded several hardworking members of DET RC-East with his command coin for their dedication in completing critical electrical and communication wiring to 10 facilities, a 40’ x 90’ 36-room berthing Seahut, a Tactical Operations Center build-out and three laundry and head facilities in support of the 203rd Engineering Battalion, who is tasked with Route Clearance Patrol in Eastern Afghanistan. “I felt surprised when they called my name during the assembly for an award. You get tasked with a job and you do it, no ifs, ands, or buts about it. You get so caught up in your work that you don’t expect to get awarded, but it makes me feel good to receive an award. It says that your work is appreciated and someone is always watching. I was overwhelmed when I received the award today,” said BUCN Jenell Chase.

203rd Command Coins: BU3 Nicholas Babcock BUCN Jenell Chase BUCA Angela EbertBU3 Jeremiah Hill BUCN David McLeod BU3 Ilia NikiforovCM3 Clayton Oldham BU3 Micaela Piña BU3 Alexander TaylorBU3 Mark Yancey

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NMCB Four DET RC-East formation for awards ceremony

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By EO2(SCW) Ivey, Michael

In the midst of the barren valley in which Camp Mike Spann sits, it seems that the only water is in the mud around the tents, but ask any of the members of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR’s Water Well team and they can tell you exactly where it is. “We know that the well that supplies Camp Shaheen tapped an aquifer about 150 meters down. We came prepared to drill almost three times that depth,” said CM2 Robert Towndrow. In fact, not a single member of the crew seems the least bit worried about drilling a hole in the earth as deep as five football fields.

The water well crew will be using a method called “mud rotary drilling” in which “mud” is mixed on site and pumped down the center of the drill pipe. The mud flows out of strategically placed holes on the 200lb bit and acts to clean, cool, and lubricate the bit, as well as bring the cuttings to the surface. This process sounds simple enough until one defines what “mud” means to the team. “It’s a specially formulated Bentonite Clay that is fairly easy to monitor and adjust. Viscosity, density, specific gravity, fluid loss, and pH levels are only a few of the things we have to monitor constantly,” said SW3 Thomas Cunningham, and as one of the W.O.R.M.M.s (Worker, Oiler, Racker, Mud and Maintenance Man) he has a very intimate knowledge of the process.

“There’s a certain beauty to it,” said team Assistant Officer in Charge EOC(SCW) Jason Phillips. “People don’t realize just how important water well is. Every drop of water used on this base, from washing convoy vehicles to boiling emergency surgical tools will come from this well. They [referring to the troops who will benefit from the water well] won’t know or care where all that water comes from… but we will. It’s ours.” Chief Phillips recently came to FOUR from the Water Well School in China Lake, Calif. where he instructed most of the drillers on his crew. Everyone shares his optimism and enthusiasm as they finalize their preparations for a long, yet rewarding mission.

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EO3 Casey Hupp and SW3 Thomas Cunningham Drilling

CM3 Jeremy Null, SW2 Taylor Reed, and CM2 Robert Towndrow lift a 300lb bit into place

CE3 Jimmy Rodriguez and CM3 Frank Skupny mix mud in a sandstorm

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U.S. Navy photo by CE2 Neal Walker

U.S. Navy photo by LS3 Darlene Kemble

U.S. Navy photo by BU3 Justin Castaneda

U.S. Navy photo by EO2 Michael Ivey

U.S. Navy photo by EO2 Michael Ivey

U.S. Air Force photo by MSgt Paul Tholen

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U.S. Air Force photo by MSgt Paul Tholen

U.S. Navy photo by LS3 Darlene Kemble

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Daniel Thelen

U.S. Navy photo by CE2 Neal Walker

U.S. Navy photo by BU3 Nathan Britton

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Daniel Thelen

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FOF April 2010

Documents

Transcript of FOF April 2010