Commanding Officer

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Executive Officer 4 CONSTRUCTION
Command Master Chief 5 BILE BA
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Alfa Company 10

FOUR
Charlie Company 12
Headquarters Company 14
Convoy Security Element 17
Det. Khilaguy 19
Det. Konduz 21
Det. Marmal 23
Det. Meymaneh 25 U.S T
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Contents

Det. Meymaneh Airfield 27

Volume Ten, Issue Six

Det. Sharana 28
Det. Water Well 32 Commanding Officer
CDR La Tanya Simms, CEC

Executive Officer
LCDR Kent Hendricks, CEC

Front Cover:
Command Master Chief
The NMCB FOUR Color Guard at the CMDCM(SCW) Charles Thomas
July 12th Change of Command Ceremony.
(U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart) Public Affairs Officer
MC1 Russell Stewart

“Focus on FOUR” is U.S. Naval Mobile

Back Cover:
EOCN Emmanuel Colon-Pomales at the
end of the day at Det Meymaneh Airfield.
(U.S. Navy photo by CMDCM Charles
Thomas)
You may also visit us on the web at:
www.facebook.com/nmcb4
Page 2
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 PAO
Unit 25284
FPO AP 96601-4941
 Greetings Fabulous Friends and Families of FOUR,

Can you see that? Look closely; there it is… it’s the

Commanding Officer
light at the end of a seven-month tunnel. Yes, that’s
right, your Seabees are almost home so this is the last
edition of Focus on Four for the 2010 deployment.
As I told the Battalion at the change of command
ceremony, I am deeply humbled by the opportunity
to serve with the Seabees, family and friends of NMCB
FOUR. As you know, your Seabees are wrapping up an
extremely successful deployment turning a green field
into an impressive forward operating base and adding
to the Seabee legacy in four (imagine that) of the five
regional commands in Afghanistan. Without question,
the Battalion’s success here is directly connected to
your selfless sacrifice at home.
I am especially honored to lead one of the best
battalions in the Naval Construction Force. The basis
of my observation comes from: watching FOUR step

CDR La Tanya Simms

U.S. Navy photo
off the plane at Kandahar Airfield in January (yes, I
was here then too) poised and ready; coordinating
with Commander VanderLey, Lieutenant Commander Hendricks and Command Master
Chief Thomas the last few months to make a seamless transition; starting to get to know the
troops here at Deh Dadi and looking forward to meeting many more when we’re all together
again; and participating in a well-orchestrated ceremony that honored our naval heritage!
The highlights are posted on Facebook.
As far as introducing myself, I’m thinking you’ve already “Googled” my name (or will
since I’ve mentioned it) and found plenty of useless information so I won’t bore you with
biographical details. What you didn’t find was that honest to goodness, my favorite number
is 4 and I believe in divine destiny. I like listening to jazz, gospel and country music, playing
basketball and hiking when my knees are cooperating, and drawing and painting. I’ve driven
the same car since I was a Lieutenant, so does that mean I’m frugal or fiscally responsible?
And I have a 3-year-old dog (Steve) with ADHD.
I’d like to share a vision that I’ve asked our Seabees to embrace. “We will BE SAFE, WORK
HARD and HAVE FUN in our quest to be ready and execute our mission with HONOR,
COURAGE and COMMITMENT…always!”
Be Safe. This is self-explanatory; we need every member of our team in order to execute
our mission so it applies both on and off duty.
Work Hard. The expectation is that we work hard at caring for one another, training,
attaining qualifications, being ready, caring for our families, providing unwavering support
to operational forces with quality projects and being the best.
Have Fun. It’s been said that “if you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right.” This
principle applies on and off duty as well. I firmly believe that work doesn’t have to be a drag
so I want folks to be excited about the contributions they make to our Battalion, the Navy and
the nation. Additionally, NMCB FOUR has completed back-to-back-to-back contingency
deployments; we must spend quality time with family and friends to recharge our batteries.
In closing, I would be remiss if I didn’t thank my parents, Levon and Nancy Simms, for
demonstrating a lifetime of service, my close friends for their love, advice and support, and
my mentors and teachers that have nurtured me for years. Lastly, but not the least of these, I
thank the Creator in advance for the phenomenal two years ahead and the wonderful people,
like you, that I will have the chance to serve with. Thank you for helping to make NMCB
FOUR great!
Peace and blessings,
CDR La Tanya Simms
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 Friends and families of FOUR,
As you are reading this month’s Focus on FOUR,
some of your loved ones are likely moving towards
home. They may be leaving their det site in Afghanistan
or on their way to Camp Moreell, Kuwait for Warrior
Transition and then the Advance Party flight home
in August. In July, we bid a fond farewell to our
Executive Officer
devoted skipper, CDR Dean VanderLey, after 2+ years
of stalwart Battalion leadership through back-to-back
CENTCOM deployments. At the Change of Command
on 12 July, we welcomed in a new era under CDR La
Tanya Simms.
The last month focused on mission completion,
transition and preparation for turnover with NMCB
FORTY in August. All our Seabees at every location
have accomplished much and we should all be very
satisfied and proud of our time and work as we look
at Afghanistan in the rear view mirror and look ahead
LCDR Kent Hendricks

to homeport reunions with our families and friends.

Speaking of return to homeport, go ahead and mark U.S. Navy photo
your calendars for our return to homeport picnic that
will take place on Friday, 10 September. We look forward to seeing you soon.
Congratulations to our latest Seabee Combat Warfare qualified Seabees. These high
achievers have been working diligently to knock out their qualifications prior to coming
home. It’s not an easy thing to accomplish and they should be justifiably proud of their
efforts. Bravo Zulu on this important career milestone to the following Seabees:

LN1 Cheryl Elliott LS3 Darlene Kemble BU3 Nicholas Babcock

CM3 Justin Haynes CE3 Douglas Sager EO3 Thomas Carroll
BUCN Jesse Selby CE3 Steven Norris SWCN Andree Urroz
CM3 Kyle Foley CM3 Greg Bottom CMCN Timothy Ryan
BUCN Jenell Chase CM3 Kyle Roman BU3 Justin Wesoloski
BU3 Amber Mann HM1 Frank Gonzalez CM2 Christopher Lubbesmeyer
BU2 Michael Hartman CM3 David Cornett SWCN Michael Aquino
EO2 Chance Keiter CE3 Andrew Rexroad EACN Michael McFadden
BU2 Daniel Smith YNSN Inayra Bacallao BU2 Raymond Behrens
EO2 Zachary Beam EA3 Thomas Clark UT3 Derrick Garcia
GM1 David Shelton HM1 Randall Connolly ET3 Russell Lawrence
ITSN Juan Trujillo LSSN Christopher Jones LSSN Jonathan Ricks
CM3 David Whiting CMCN Fred Schmickle BU3 Nicholas Leetch
CECN Jacob Smith CMCN Daniel Thelen LSSN Richard nettles
SWCN Brian Tendero ITC Eric Purcell SW3 Veronica Guerrero
EO3 Justin Meadors CMCN Susanne Salerno BUCN Megan Gooden
BU3 Jeremiah Hill BUCN Richard Pinard CM3 Nicholas Parker
CE3 Eric Polito CMCN Nathan Gilbert CMCN Christina Astin

Thanks for all you do; your support, sacrifice, and perseverance are crucial to our continued
success! We are almost home, so keep the Seabees in your prayers over the final deployment
days! God bless you.

LCDR Kent Hendricks

NMCB FOUR
EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Page 4
 Spouses, friends and families we are almost done

Command Master Chief

here in Afghanistan.  The preparations for coming
home are well in the works.  It shouldn’t be too
much longer and your Seabee will be home. A lot
has happened on this deployment. Each Detail
site and the main body here in Deh Dadi have
accomplished more than anyone ever thought
possible. NMCB FOUR has performed flawlessly
this deployment with numerous accolades of
success all across Afghanistan. This Battalion is the
one that I know will be the best on the west coast
if not the best in the Naval Construction Forces!

CMDCM(SCW) Charles Thomas

We have a long history of success in NMCB FOUR
and this deployment added just another notch in
our belt.
After being asked to depart a bit early, we knew
U.S. Navy photo
there were going to be big challenges ahead of us.
First assigned to Kandahar Airfield in the South
for some small construction project tasking; after two months on the ground we
were asked to move forward and establish a camp just outside of Camp Spann in
northern Afghanistan for the follow-on forces in the years to come.  This is exactly
what we train to do when we conduct the homeport Field Training Exercise, move
from one location to another and establish a Seabee footprint. Once on the ground,
it was apparent that tasking was a plenty and resources were; you guessed it, very
limited, but in true Seabee tradition the creative troops of NMCB FOUR kept their
heads up and faced the adversity with a smile and willingly accepted the challenge to
make something out of nothing.  The Supply/MLO departments got together, made
a few phone calls and the construction materials began to flow in. With that FOB Deh
Dadi was born; created by the skillful hands of some of the best Seabees in the Naval
Construction Force.
Alfa Company has completed more earth moving work than they will most likely
ever get to do again.  Their efforts have been nonstop from most days before dawn
to often well into the evening. Their work doesn’t stop there, just like the other
companies they also have their administrative work to complete, training of their
subordinates, mentorship, and various other duties and responsibilities associated
with being an outstanding Petty Officer. FOUR is full of them! Everywhere you turn
there is another top notch Petty Officer doing what they need to do, without asking,
to make it all happen.
Bravo/Charlie is continuing to solve the world’s problems when it comes to
electrical, water, vertical construction and general maintenance of the facilities. Some
of the big players in that organization are Seabees like SWCN Shue, who has proven
his ability to take charge and lead a crew to complete tasks.  He earned his Seabee
Combat Warfare pin and motivated others to obtain their warfare pins as well. BU3
Zaragoza’s exemplary work ethic has been solid throughout this deployment.  Hard
work and motivation is what pushes her towards new levels of excellence.  CE2
Delgado’s technical expertise and leadership has been critical in the maintenance
(continued on page 6)
Page 5
 of generators and life support facilities at the camp.  He is often referred to as the
Command Master Chief Generator Guru for his expertise in trouble shooting equipment.  No job is too small
or too complicated for this motivated Seabee.
Headquarters is leading the way in services and support functions all across
the Command. All areas have made a significant contribution to the success of
this deployment, MWR, Post office, Material Liaison Office, Central Tool Room,
Administration office, the Galley Crew and a host of others. Two Seabees that have
made a big difference in our professional appearance are SHSN Younger and LS3
Henry.  They are the resident barbers and keep us looking cool and professional
with Navy regulation haircuts. LS2 Isbell- the Defense Travel Service expert and
the guy you like the most when he brings in the mail. Bravo Zulu to this Young
Man for his dedicated work. HM1 Connelly- DOC has hit the Battalion with force,
CMDCM(SCW) Charles Thomas

professionalism, and dedication. He is new to the Battalion but not to the AOR. HM1
had previously served a tour in Camp Spann, here in RC-North. Welcome aboard
DOC! We can’t forget the efforts of two Engineering Aides EA1(SCW) Caroline
Godoy and EA3(SCW) Reah Sobremonte. These two were instrumental in the survey
of our camp and some adjacent areas around the camp totaling approx 500 acres.
They can’t take all the credit because there are more outstanding EA’s that work
alongside and support the mission of building this camp
I feel this next part is as equally important as the success of our Seabees and the
Command because without success in this area we will all suffer. As you know the
return is often a troubling time for the Seabee and their spouse/significant other.  As
much as we want things to be the same as when we departed, that is far from the
reality. Everyone has grown in their own way, you included.  There will need to be
some time of understanding and adjustment between the two of you; be it your spouse,
family, kids, or friends.  You have all changed while we were deployed. The stress of
deployment often times carries over to homeport; be mindful of attitude swings and
increases in irritability.  If you do experience some coping issues, involve the chain of
command, the Chaplain, a counselor, or a medical professional immediately. There
is no shame in seeking assistance. That in itself makes you a stronger person in my
book!
As we plan our arrival in homeport the Command will switch some of our priorities
from construction to training.  The development and honing of our skills is essential
to our future success as a Battalion and to our personal and professional level.
The Seabees of NMCB FOUR are some of the best in the Naval Construction Force!
We are closing just another chapter in Seabee history and your Seabee was there to
make it happen.  They are “Making it Happen”.  I’m proud to serve side by side with
your “Seabee” and in the United States Navy Seabees!

I am truly blessed to be the Command Master Chief of such a highly motivated

group of Seabees that daily live our “CAN DO” motto.   

Sincerely,
Charles “Buck” Thomas
NMCB FOUR
Command Master Chief
Page 6
 Greetings and Blessings to all the Friends
and Family who have supported us during our
deployment to Afghanistan! I have noticed first
hand how the support has affected our troops in a
positive way. The troops are tired, but are getting
really excited about returning home. We just don’t

Chaplain’s Corner
want to get too excited, because we have to finish
strong and safe. Some are even apprehensive about
returning home too. Because our emotions are all
over the spectrum, I would venture a guess that
yours are as well. Important things to remember
as we arrive home! Give us space if we need it,
and we will try and not just jump right back in
and take over. If we forget to flush the toilets, be
patient cause we have not had to use that little
handle thingy….so it might take us awhile to get
U.S. Navy photo back on track. We know that you have done some

LT Catherine Pace
hard things while we were gone and we want to
hear all about them, but give it to us slowly, so we can soak it all in. If we say that we
feel like we have forgotten something for a bit, it is probably because we feel naked
without carrying our weapons (except for me—mine was lighter to carry since it is the
Bible)---just reassure us that we are home and all is good to go. If we comment on the
fact that walking on pavement feels funny, then just take our hands and say: “ Gee…
it feels good to have you home. “ If we take unusual objects like toilet paper, a bottle

of water or a suitcase to the bathroom when we first get home, just give us a hug and
say that we look great….cause you haven’t seen us for what seems like forever. You
made some tough decisions and we know that you have done the best you could, so
even if it is different than the way we would have done it, just remind us how lucky
we are to have each other in our lives. I would be remiss if I didn’t share with you
some great news: The Religious Ministry Team was fortunate enough to move into a
building. It made our ability to take care of your Seabee easier---especially with all the
great donations sent from home. We hope that your Seabees found the chapel to be a
place of sanctuary-where quiet and peace were known. We were privileged to take care
of you--- all these months in Afghanistan and don’t forget that even though the Bee Free
Mall is not in homeport, your Religious Ministry Team awaits to serve you. We were
and are grateful that you trusted us with your pains, sorrows and joys. We look forward
to seeing all the friends and family in homeport.
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Change of Command, 12 July, 2010
Afghanistan

Commanding Officer Dean VanderLey is piped Parading the Colors.

aboard.

BUC Cooper sings the National Anthem. The Seabees of NMCB FOUR at FOB Deh Dadi stand
in formation for the change of command ceremony.

Presenting the guide-ons. The Seabees of NMCB FOUR at FOB Deh Dadi stand
in formation for the change of command ceremony.
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Change of Command, 12 July 2010
Afghanistan
The Seabees of NMCB FOUR at FOB Deh Dadi stand Commander VanderLey addressing the troops.
in formation for the change of command ceremony.

The inspecting party passes in review. CMDCM Thomas receiving the Battalion Colors from
Commander Simms.

Commodore Corello receives the report of the change Commanding Officer La Tanya Simms is piped
of command. ashore.
U.S. Navy photos by MC1 Russ Stewart Page 9
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By CMCN(SCW) Timothy Ryan

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The work schedule on deployment can be daunting. With 12 or more hour days and
infrequent days off it becomes very important to find good ways to unwind. That job is much
more difficult in a place like Mazar-e-Sharif, when you’re tasked with building up a camp from
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nothing and do not have phones and internet access waiting for you to use when you get there.
Despite all of that, the Seabees of NMCB FOUR have found a number of ways to make the best
of their time in the high desert.
With details (Dets) spread out all over

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Tiimothy Ryan

Afghanistan, a Battalion can start to feel a little
Afghanistan

segregated. One item of uniformity that each Det

shares is palm trees. Mazar-e-Sharif, Kunduz,
Mehmanah, Sharanah, and Khilaguy have built
palm trees out of scrap lumber. Some are simple
and some go so far as to feature coconuts, but
each Det has one and is proud of it.
Seabees not only know how to work creatively,
they know how to play creatively too. When
Alfa Company

you’re stuck without many of the luxuries BUCN Justin VanAsen admiring the view.
of home, it becomes tougher to find ways to
occupy any downtime. Several Construction Mechanics overcame this obstacle by creating a
Water Chug Championship. In this event, competitors faced off to see who could consume a
half-liter bottle of water the fastest. Each daily winner is awarded the Water Chug Champ’s
Victory Belt shown here. Not only does this occupy free time but it promotes hydration as
well.
New personnel spend a couple weeks to a couple months
working in the Galley as a Food Service Assistant. Many
troops dislike this task, but Construction Mechanic Apprentice
Kyle Luther and Construction Mechanic Apprentice Dustin
Morse have been FSA’s for three weeks and make the best of it.
“It’s not the most glorious job, but it’s gotta be done. Sure, I’d

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Timothy Ryan

rather be in Alfa Company fixing something, but if I do this job
OK, make some people smile and get my shipmates full, then
I’m alright with that,” said Luther. “I heard Luther’s a hell of a
dancer but only day crew has seen his moves,” said Morse, his
only negative comment on being an FSA.
FOUR also finds creative ways to mark their territory.
Whether a tool room, a trashcan, a workbench or just marking
a rack, FOUR has found interesting ways of making their
presence known. When the relieving Battalion shows up,
there will be no mistaking who created this fine camp. Other CMCA Kyle Luther smiling on the
activities include making kites out of 550 cord and old shop job.
rags as well as Navy vs. Army basketball games.
Sure, the hours these ‘Bees work are long and often painful. Sure, these ‘Bees are away from
their friends and loved ones and in harm’s way. But they get their job done and when it comes
time to quit for the day, they put their own unique stamp on fun and relaxation. And the only
question that remains is: Who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?
Page 10
 Sacrifice
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While on deployment to a place like northern Afghanistan, it’s easy to focus on the Fa

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little things we’re missing out on back at home. As our time in theater winds down,

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ask anybody in NMCB FOUR what’s missing from their lives and most will be quick

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to respond with “pizza” or “a cold beer” or even “paved sidewalks and football.” But
some of us are missing out on things much bigger than Papa John’s and preseason NFL
broadcasts.
Construction Mechanic Bruce Call isn’t just missing home cooking, he’s missing his
newborn baby daughter. Nya Yvonne Call was born around 10:00 p.m. Central Time
on June 19th in Missouri. While her mother, Kimberly, was holding her for the first

Afghanistan
time, her father was holding a wrench in a dusty, hot equipment yard in northern
Afghanistan. “It was actually Father’s Day here,” said Call. “So that’s a little fun
fact.”
Everyday our troops are giving up all kinds of freedoms and privileges just to be
here doing their job and so often, we only notice when a major event like a new birth
happens. Despite the distance and the constant thoughts of home, Call continues to
stay motivated and up beat. “I believe that our country is the greatest country in the
world. It needs defending and not just anyone can do it,” said Call. “The sacrifice is

Alfa Company
huge. Everything that makes you who you are, you have to sacrifice… but I guess if
that’s what it takes to make our country what it is, then I guess that‘s what you gotta
take home with ya at the end of the day. Otherwise why the hell would you do an eight
month deployment in Afghanistan?”
Bruce and Kimberly met at a church Christmas party four years ago. They married
three years ago and shortly thereafter Bruce began presenting his case for joining the
military. “It took about a year and a half before she agreed [to my joining the Navy],”
says Call. But in the face of all he had to give up, Call is still proud as ever of his
decision to join.
U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Tiimothy Ryan

Now that deployment is starting to wind

down in Mazar-e-Sharif, this mechanic
finds himself well tasked when he gets
home. “It’s a little overwhelming because
there’s so much to go back to. I gotta go
back out to Missouri and meet my new
daughter, get intertwined with the family
again. I’ve gotta learn how to be a Dad
and how to be a husband all over again,”
Call said. It doesn’t stop there for Call.
CM3 Call shows a picture of his daughter, Nya, “Right now I also gotta focus on getting
on his laptop. He’ll meet her for the first time next
month.
school done in homeport, studying for the
[second class] exam AND getting a SCWS
pin. A lot to catch up on after being in Afghanistan for eight months,” said Call.
In many ways, Call’s sacrifices differ from the rest of ours and in other ways; they’re
all the same. What we leave behind when we deploy, gives us such a better appreciation
for what we have when we come back, and in Call’s opinion gives us the strength,
courage, and pride to do it all over again next time the need arises. Call closed by
saying, “We sacrifice almost all our freedoms to give freedom to others. We can’t just
walk out the ECP and go into town. Maybe when we are stripped of all our freedom,
we’ll begin to understand what freedom really is.”
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With a much needed day off, Charlie Company
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enjoyed the 4th of July holiday by playing numerous
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sports, eating burgers, steaks and hotdogs and enjoying
their favorite music playing in the background. After
several months of hard labor, the 4th couldn’t have

U.S. Navy photo by LS3 Darlene Kemble

come any sooner to get together as a main body site to
take pleasure in recreation activities.
Afghanistan

Some of the many activities included basketball,

soccer, hockey and horseshoe throwing. This day was
not only for Navy, as the U.S. Army personnel were
more than welcome to enjoy this wondrous day. Games
were played from the lowest ranking person up to the
Charlie Company

Commanding Officer. Sweat was poured to achieve UT2 Selvera throwing a horseshoe
trying to score for his team.
greatness as the best team conquered each event. Teams
were divided by company and added in

U.S. Navy photo by LS3 Darlene Kemble

some khaki. The day was long as nightfall
came, but the games kept rolling. Screams
of cheer were heard and boo’s were given
for amazing plays and missed attempts in
scoring. “The 4th was a great day. We
needed a day to relax and be stress free. I
wish we could do this every month. I had
an amazing time playing soccer,” says
Charlie Company Playing versus HQ
CE2(SCW) Chad Manuel.

Joint Construction Forces

By BU3(SCW) David Madmon
U.S. Navy photo by BU3 David Madmon

Here at FOB Deh Dadi, the Seabees and

Army have been working together and
have become a cohesive team. The team is
currently constructing a Tactical Operation
Center (TOC) for the Second Engineering
Battalion; whose motto is “Sapper Steel”,
meaning engineer strength.
Seabees and Army engineers erecting a wall. Charlie Company has the lead, but the
Second Engineering Battalion has provided
Page 12 (Joint continued on page 13)
(Joint from page 12)
a handful of soldiers as reinforcements

U.S. Navy photo by BU3 David Madmon

to ensure the timely completion and s

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to suggest new ideas to swiftly get the
job done. Many of the Seabees have been
involved on similar structures in the recent
past; one of them is BU2 (SCW) Michael
UT1 Ostrowske, BUCR Grob, BUCR Ramlow
Hartman. As Project Supervisor for the and BU1 Bearsley working on the female LSS.

Afghanistan
Army TOC, Hartman takes the time to lead

U.S. Navy photo by BU3 David Madmon

and train both Navy and Army personnel.
“It is a great opportunity for me to pass
down knowledge to the junior Seabees,
and Soldiers. I also hope the knowledge

Charlie Company
I pass on will assist the junior Seabees
for when it’s their turn to take the lead,”
commented Hartman.
Charlie Company is concurrently
Building interior walls.
building three TOC’s at Deh Dadi. This
will enhance the Army’s Command and
Control Operations throughout Regional

U.S. Navy photo by BU3 David Madmon

Command-North. The Army has helped
significantly with these projects. “It
has been outstanding to work with the
Navy. It has been a valuable experience
for all of us. This is our first Joint
Construction Operation,” said Sergeant
Joseph, a member of the Second Engineer
BUCA Barbierri working on exterior wall
Battalion.
construction
The following Soldiers efforts are greatly
appreciated for their help to Charlie
U.S. Navy photo by BU3 David Madmon

Company:
Staff Sergeant Lizotte, Sergeant Joseph,
Specialist Bennett, Specialist Berger, and
Private First Class Birdsell. Thank you for
your support and help throughout these
endeavors. Together we can overcome any
obstacles and deliver a quality product for
the benefit of all. Hoorah!! Building forms for concrete.

Page 13
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Reflections on Deployment
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By LS3 Darlene Kemble

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During the past seven months, you have read dozens of articles and have heard scores
of statements about the great things our NMCB FOUR Seabees have accomplished during
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CI F I C F L E E
now that we have the opportunity to stop, breathe, look around, and soak-in how our
focus on “fine details” has contributed to the “big picture.” From every DET and FOB, to
every company and department, each individual Seabee can proudly say that they had a
hand in something extraordinary.
Headquarters Company was no exception. Behind every camp, there is someone who
surveys the area. Behind every project, there is someone who plans it. Behind every
Afghanistan

hammer, there is someone who orders it. Here is a quick recap of the activities that were
completed behind the scenes by Headquarters Company at FOB Deh Dedi.
NMCB FOUR’S Engineering Department
surveyed 362 acres to create Deh Dadi,

U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart

including laying out 8,500 linear meters
Headquarters Company

of berm, 10,000 linear meters of protective

wire, and 12,000 linear meters of road.
Additionally, they designed and laid out
camp expansions and building sites at
Camp Spann and Marmal; and we certainly
cannot forget the infamous hockey rink
here at Deh Dadi.
Our Gunners Mates planned and built
the first armory and ammo handling area FOUR’s Engineering Dept.
in Deh Dadi, where they repaired weapons
for individual troops, the Convoy Security Team, and the Force Protection Team. At the
Armory they also provided countless hours of hands-on weapons training to personnel
seeking Seabee Combat Warfare qualification.
Religious Ministry Team FOUR has been extremely busy providing multiple church
services a week as well as choir practice and bible study. They recently celebrated the
dedication of Deh Dadi’s Peace Chapel. Inside the chapel, the “Bee Free” store is where
the Seabees may go in their off time to pick up badly needed toiletries, CDs, DVDs, and
books. The free store was established with the help of numerous churches, troop support
organizations, friends, and families who sent countless care packages to our personnel
here at Deh Dadi.
In addition to designing the first Battle
Aid Station (see June FoF), the Medical
U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart

Department provided services for over 500

Navy and Army personnel. The department
was also 100% Seabee Combat Warfare
qualified by the end of deployment.
The Communications Department set up
and maintained a Ruggedized Deployable/
Satellite terminal with less than 23 hours of
downtime over seven months of operation.
They installed over $10 million of equipment
FOUR’s Medical Dept. outside the Battalion Aid on 58 Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements
Station. (MTVRs) ensuring reliable communications
for all of the Battalion’s convoys around
Regional Command-North. Additionally,
Page 14 (Reflections continued on page 15)
(Reflections from page 14)
the Comms team set up and maintained an Internet/Phone Center boosting the morale
of over 2,000 Army, Air Force, and Navy troops by allowing them to communicate with s

4
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friends and family back home. u
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Having a direct impact on the high level Fa

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of morale and personnel welfare, the Supply

u
U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart
Team received, sorted, and distributed over

o
f
2,000 personal packages and 3,000 letters
from friends and family. Barber Shop
services were provided to Army, Navy, Air
Force, and civilian personnel resulting in
over $18,000 in savings for those who took
advantage of the services. Laundry Services
were also provided for our Seabees on Deh

Afghanistan
Dadi thanks to the Supply team who made
daily convoys to Camp Mike Spann for FOUR’s Supply Dept.
laundry pick-up and drop-off.
The Culinary Specialists filled many satisfied bellies by providing over 200,000 meals

Headquarters Company
for 495 Navy and Army personnel. They also arranged several special occasion meals
to include Memorial Day, 4th of July, Commodore visits, Iron Chef Challenge, and the
Change of Command.
On top of building a construction material
yard from the ground up (see MLO: May
U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart

FoF), the Material Liaison Office has been

busy supporting the material and tool
requirements of 32 projects spread over 8
sites throughout northern Afghanistan,
including Tactical Operation Centers,
fuel points, and concrete pads. They
are currently working on a wall-to-wall
inventory of the 4-acre yard that is currently
holding $18 million of materials.
FOUR’s Materials Liaison Office.

The Administrative Department is

coordinating with the Homeport Liaison,
U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart

Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) Port

Hueneme, and Naval Base Ventura County
(NBVC) offices to streamline the influx of
the Battalion as we prepare to re-deploy to
homeport. Admin is processing Battalion
Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) chits,
Geographic Bachelor Housing requirement
information, and leave chits for all 650
personnel and strives to make everyone’s FOUR’s Admin Dept.
transition as easy and painless as possible.
Additionally, the Admin department has provided non-stop legal and career advice.
The entire Battalion is now working on preparations for the high-anticipated turnover
with NMCB FORTY. Although we all anxiously wait for the moment we can board the
California-bound flight out of Afghanistan, there is still plenty of work to be done. But we
are all thinking of fulfilling our own personal “Big Pictures,” which consist of time with
family and friends, when we get home!
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By LS3 Darlene Kemble

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The Seabee Combat Warfare device is a pin that recognizes the training and
qualifications of military personnel who serve in Naval Construction units. To be
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awarded this insignia, personnel must complete Personnel Qualification Standards,
CI F I C F L E E
which include tasks, watch stations, a written exam, and a field exercise, followed by
an oral pre-board and final board.
This deployment, NMCB FOUR has had 102 personnel
qualify or re-qualify as Seabee Combat Warfare
Specialists. Battalion SCWS Coordinator IT1 Kelly Seay
has certainly had his hands full as the motivation to
qualify this deployment was through the roof. As the
Afghanistan

battalion coordinator, in addition to assigning personnel

to sit on SCW board panels, it is his responsibility to

U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart

establish and maintain the PQS Program, ensure that
newly assigned personnel are introduced and educated
Headquarters Company

about the SCW program, coordinate and monitor SCW

College, assign subject matter experts as instructors, and
maintain a library of PQS references.
With personnel in several locations, the biggest
challenge for the SCWs program has been communication
with the different Det sites. “There is no standard means
of communication on any of the sites where we have
people,” explains Seay, “since everyone has some sort ET3 Jones receives his pin from
of communications, things have run smooth, but slow Battalion SCWS coordinator IT1
at times.” With 44% of NMCB FOUR qualified, half of Seay.
which were qualified this deployment cycle, he has a remarkable group of qualified
personnel assigned to take charge and assist in the qualification process of our
personnel. Each DET has its own SCWs Coordinator, as well as each company at Deh
Dadi. These personnel are tasked with tracking the progress of personnel enrolled in
SCWs and verifying that all requirements are met by each Seabee, and coordinating
pre-boards and final boards.
The purpose of the SCWs Program is to ensure that all personnel have the knowledge
and qualifications to complete a mission at any time or location and under any
circumstance. “You should be able to look at anyone with a pin on their chest and
know you can assign them a task and know they are qualified to do it,” says Seay. The
biggest lesson that SCWs Warriors learn is not to rely on books to provide the answer,
it takes the person’s ability to think for themselves and make a decision, to be a leader
and make things happen.
Seay, along with the assistance of his
crew of SCW Warriors, have provided an
U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Russ Stewart

immeasurable amount of time and effort

into the knowledge and qualification of
our Seabees. “We were fortunate to have
amazing people on our Det sites that were
able to run the SCWs program effectively.
This goes to show how well the program
works; take people with a pin, send them
out to do great things, and behold, you have
great things!” said Seay in appreciation
to all of those who have assisted him in
HQ SCWS Warriors receive their new SCWS
coins from CMDCM Thomas.
making this a successful deployment for
the SCWs Program.
Page 16
 Travel in Afghanistan
By BU3(SCW) Sherry Clark s

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CSE takes off on their last month of convoy Fa

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ops that has given the team a chance for

u
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some new destinations and an opportunity

f
to work with the Army.
CSE teams up with the Army convoy
teams from Tenth Mountain Division and
41st Transportation Company to assist in
transport of personal and equipment to FOB
Sheberghan and Khilaguy. Both are places

Afghanistan
that the team hasn’t been to this deployment.
Truck 1 led by CM3(SCW) Ian Lemarbre and
truck 6 led by CM2(SCW/AW) Sam Crawley
were tasked with the first mission to FOB

Convoy Security Element

Sheberghan led by the Tenth Mountain.
FOB Sheberghan is only about 80 miles
away and took the convoy around 2 ½ hours.
“It was a long straight road so we were
able to pick up the speed a little, I am used
operations in a more urban setting, where
speed is limited, the open road allowed us
to get moving a little faster” said Lemarbre.
Through the wide-open road the team came
across very few villages or even people. “The
area seemed very rural, not much to see, just
lots of donkeys, and baby camels, which are
so cute!” said UTCN Eric Aiello, the gunner
for Truck 1. The team arrived at the camp
dropping off the passengers and turning
right back around to head home. “It was fun
working with the Army, getting a different
perspective on how to run convoys. Tenth
Mountain guys are really good at what they
do, it was a good experience and I got to go
somewhere new,” said Lemarbre.
The next mission was to take the water
well detail and all their equipment to Camp
Khilaguy, over a hundred miles away with
a much more complex route. The mission
was being led by the Army 41st TC convoy
team, consisting of two gun trucks from CSE
along with seven tractor trailers from Alfa
Company.
The convoy left on a Wednesday night
expecting to return by Friday. Khilaguy
is located near Kunduz, which lately has
been a hot spot for attacks on ISAF forces.
Before the convoy stepped off that night
they had been briefed on the current enemy
U.S. Navy photos by CMDCM Charles Thomas
(Travel continued on page 18) Page 17
 (Travel from page 17)
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activity, two major events had just occurred
ILE
just days before. The convoy proceeded on
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pounding with anticipation heading in the

FOUR dark unknown of enemy territory. The road
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was all straight and flat asphalt for about
CI F I C F L E E
an hour. But after about 40 miles the team
found themselves in a deep canyon, with
mountains all around them. The grade began
to get steep and road narrow. If I didn’t
know any better it was like I was driving
around in Utah.
Afghanistan

Convoy kept moving on as the grade got

steeper and steeper. The tractor-trailers
loaded with heavy equipment slowly made
their way up the mountain pass. “I was
Convoy Security Element

looking around thinking these mountains

are really cool, I just hope the Taliban isn’t
going to shoot a rocket at me from up there,”
said BUCN Chris Vaughn gunner for Truck
3.
“These MRAPs weigh around 18 tons and
heading down those mountain passes with
cliffs on one side in the dark, on a road I
have never been on, in the middle of Taliban
Afghanistan is the scariest thing I have ever
done. I was holding down the brakes, using
the Jake brake and still was going too fast
for those curves, Everyone in the truck was
white knuckled praying for flat land,” said
BU3(SCW) Enrique Argote the driver for
Truck 5.
The convoy made it to the bottom of the
pass and pushed on toward the village of
Pul-e-Khumri. The convoy pushed right
on through and arrived at Khilaguy early
that next morning. The trip lasted around
5 ½ hours. The convoy went smooth and
water well arrived at their destination.
Back through the hotspot, back through the
mountains, the convoy made it home safely
and in better time. “It wasn’t as bad the
second time because I knew what to expect,”
said Argote.
“The Army are real professional and got
us there safely. It was fun to do a convoy
with them and see what kind of Ops and
SOP’s they go by. I picked up some new
tips from the “cowboys” who drive through
enemy territory every day. They definitely
know what they are doing,” said EO2(SCW)
U.S. Navy photos by CMDCM Charles Thomas Brian Ladick the driver for Truck 3.
Page 18
 From A Dusty Field to an Established Base
By CE2(SCW) Neal Walker s

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The Seabees here at DET Khilaguy can now take a breath. Work consists of small Fa

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details necessary for the finishing touches of the newly built base camp for coalition

u
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forces. The larger construction items are coming to a close; however, much work is to

f
be done before turn over takes place with NMCB FORTY.
It is hard to believe the change that has

U.S. Navy photo by ENS Christian Martinez

taken place throughout the past four months
after the Seabees of DET Khilaguy stepped
off the helicopter and took first sight of the
large open area that would transform into

Afghanistan
a complex operations site. The tasking was
demanding and the number of personnel
was limited, however the DET was up for
the task. Throughout the deployment, well
over two thousand meters of barriers have
been placed, thousands of cubic meters of
earth have been moved, and thousands UT3 Devin Boyette and BU2 Marcos Celaya take
a break while EO3 Scott Canaan fills the top of the
of cubic meters gravel had been placed bunker with dirt fill for reinforcement.

Det Khilaguy
within the confines of the camp. As time
progressed, international friendships were
made and partnerships were established.

U.S. Navy photo by ENS Christian Martinez

With the existing Forward Operating
Base being extremely small to begin with,
it was inevitable that all the U.S. Army,
Afghan National Army, German Army,
and Hungarian Army quickly learned to
join forces in order to continue mission
tasking.
The relationships made between the DET
and the adjacent forces quickly evolved
into an extended family. Whether it was
receiving mail, sharing computers in UT3 Devin Boyette and EO2 Arcello Venzon hold
order to contact loved ones, or allowing open the HESCO unit as the German Front End
the Seabees to use their gym; the different Loader Operator releases another bucket load of dirt
fill.
units welcomed the group. As DET
Khilaguy’s mission comes to an end, the
Seabees would like to recognize all those
U.S. Navy photo by ENS Christian Martinez

groups and offer a debt of gratitude.

The families back home can be extremely
proud of their Bee’s. Det Khilaguy is living
proof of what a small group of craftsmen
can do against the odds, foul weather, and
equipment delays. After months of hard
work, the once dusty open field is now an
established FOB. For the Seabees, it is just
another day at the office. After all, “The
impossible takes a little longer”.
DET Khilaguy stands on top of the newly construct-
ed Ammunition Supply Point.
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The massive effort of building a forward operating base is within the final stages of
completion. However, some small items still need to be done before ISAF (International
U.S
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CI F I C F L E E
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Seabees have switched gears and are focusing on camp improvement.
The largest of these improvements is

U.S. Navy photo by ENS Christian Martinez

the arrival of the water well detail. With
so many soldiers expected to arrive,
the current well capacity to provide the
required support was in question. This
Afghanistan

is no longer a case with the arrival of the

water well team. They immediately set
off to work and had the well drilled and
developed in record time.
Other camp improvements have also
started with local contractors beginning
BU2 Marcos Celaya lines up the interior post for the work on 30-foot guard towers and a drop
construction of the containerized bunkers, which will down gate for the camps entry control point.
provide proper protection of U.S. and coalition forces Late last month, the Seabees completed the
Det Khilaguy

coming to Khilaguy. construction of a 32 by 45 foot ammunition

supply area and four bunkers comprised
of modified shipping containers with
U.S. Navy photo by ENS Christian Martinez

surrounding Hesco barriers.

All in all, the 2010 Afghanistan deployment
has been long, the work demanding, and the
Seabees of Det Khilaguy held together like
a family through the cold, snow and wet,
to the hot, dry and dusty. Looking back on
the area that was once an open plain of dirt
and rocks, it is now a large self-sustainable
camp. The Seabees of Det Khilaguy have
clearly shown what determination and
UT3 Devin Boyette makes final measurements for the
some “Can Do” attitude can really do.
bunker reinforcement. To conclude the determination of the
Seabees, congratulations to EACN Michael
McFadden in obtaining his Seabee Combat
Warfare qualification pin.
U.S. Navy photo by ENS Christian Martinez

U.S. Navy photo by BU2 Marcos Celaya

. The”Can Do” Seabees of DET Khilaguy. Congratulations to EACN Michael McFadden in

Page 20 achieving his Seabee Combat Warfare pin.
 One Team, One Fight

U.S. Navy photo by LT Jonathan Higdon

By BU3 Amber Mann s

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As the daylight hours grow longer,

u
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and surely the sun beats hotter, NMCB

f
FOUR’s deployment grows shorter and
our projects at FOB Konduz are finishing
up.
BU3 Richard Liles fabricates facia board for a Tacti-
The Tactical Operations Center (TOC) cal Operations Center.

Afghanistan
project, lead by BU2(SCW) Lindsay Barnes

U.S. Navy photo by LT Jonathan Higdon

and Crew Leader BU3(SCW) Richard
Liles is a well built facility manufactured
by a group of hard charging motivated
Seabees. They are currently completing the
project’s final “punch list,” a list of small
items to complete to consider the project

Det Konduz
finished. “The TOC has been an excellent
learning experience for me. This is my first BU3 Amber Mann carefully cuts wood to fabricate
doors for a Tactical Operations Center.
deployment, and I feel like I’m coming out
of it with a lot more knowledge about my

U.S. Navy photo by LT Jonathan Higdon

rate,” said BUCN Meagan Gooden.

The Detail Equipment Operators

spent their days expanding the Forward
Operating Base (FOB) by pushing up
berms and filling HESCOs, successfully
completing the FOB expansion tasking
with time to spare. Everyone’s motivation UT3 Andrew Holland installs electrical outlets in a
Tactical Operations Center.
is high, and although we can practically
smell the California coastline, I feel as
U.S. Navy photo by MSgt. Paul Tholen

though it will be a sad goodbye leaving

the place we’ve called home for the past
seven months. We’ve made lifelong
friends through networking with other
branches of service and bonded as an entire
military organization. On DET Konduz,
the phrase “One Team, One Fight” really
BU3 Amber Mann and CE3 Douglas Sager install
does ring true on a daily basis.
trim for a Tactical Operations Center.
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By EO3(SCW) Thomas Carroll

U.S. Navy photo by MSgt. Paul Tholen

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Time is winding down in Konduz and
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CI F I C F L E E
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projects left on the agenda are coming to
a closure and the time spent in Konduz
was rewarding in many ways. Six of our
Seabees performing site work at FOB Konduz.
detail’s personnel earned their Seabee
Afghanistan

Combat Warfare pins and three more

U.S. Navy photo by LT Jonathan Higdon

are on their way to completing the tasks
required to qualify. As we prepare to
leave Konduz, we are also preparing to
say goodbye to some of our own. CM2
Sean Kelly and CE2 Trayvosier Roddy
Det Konduz

will be transferring out of the command

and moving on with their naval careers.
Seabees installing a “hasty fighting position” in the
expansion area of FOB Konduz.

Over the past few months, in Konduz,

U.S. Navy photo by LT Jonathan Higdon

the base has expanded beyond anyone’s

expectations. The Det Konduz Seabees
know how to take care of business. We
not only provided a U.S. Army Infantry
Battalion a place to live and work, but we
also performed site work on over 150 acres
CE3 Douglas Sager installs electrical outlets in a of land and built a Tactical Operations
Tactical Operations Center.
Center (TOC). Thanks to the Seabees of
Konduz the 10th Mountain Division and
U.S. Navy photo by MSgt. Paul Tholen

adjacent units can enjoy a nice, safe, and

dust free FOB.

Throughout our deployment here at

Konduz we are proud of the work we
have accomplished and look forward to a
FOB Konduz expansion area. much needed rest.
Page 22
 2010 BEEP
By CMCN Samuel W. Rozeboom s

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Everyone in FOUR loves to hear the words “lets go Fa

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home,” meaning that a new battalion will soon be relieving

u
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the existing battalion. As part of the preparations for the

f
incoming battalion, the existing battalion performs the
Battalion Equipment Evaluation Program (BEEP). BEEP

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

is performed by Alfa Company at the main body and by
Alfa types at the various detachment sites. BEEP ensures
the transfer of Civil Engineer Support Equipment (CESE),
its operations and service maintenance knowledge from

Afghanistan
the existing battalion to the new battalion. Seabees work
from sun up to sun down to ensure all the proper transfer
documentation and CESE is ready for turnover. The
Seabees at Camp Marmal have staged the CESE in the
“95” yard, where it will wait to be serviced and turned
over. Seabees have leveraged the use of the German
“Pitstop” maintenance bay for their maintenance of the
CESE prior to staging it at the 95 yard for turnover. An MTVR Cargo washed and
EO2(SCW) Zachary Beam is the lead Equipment serviced by EO2(SCW) Beam.

Det Marmal
Operator assisting in the cleaning and servicing of the CESE for BEEP. The cleaning
involves washing, changing of the fluids, and greasing the fittings of the CESE to
make sure it is up to par with the battalion’s 3M standards (the US Navy’s preventive
maintenance program).
The Pitstop, as the German Army calls
U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

it, has aided the Embark and Detachment

Marmal in keeping the CESE in tip-
top shape. It is a place where German
mechanics work to keep their CESE
and non-tactical vehicles (NTV) mission
ready. It is also an international place
where anyone can come and ask for
assistance. The Seabees have thanked the
Pitstop crew for all their help in various
ways; from moving cargo, assisting
them with repairs, and giving the crew
A line of Det Marmal’s CESE ready to go for turn-
command coins.
over.
U.S. Navy photo by LT Federico Perez Romero
U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

SGT Stephen is welding a water line that was dam- The whole pitstop crew with EO2 Beam and CMCN
aged on the MTVR Water Truck for BEEP. Rozeboom.
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By CMCN Samuel W. Rozeboom

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Seabees at Camp Marmal have developed a
friendship with the German Inst (inst is German for
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mechanics). The German Inst is the main mechanic

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

unit providing maintenance and repair services for
the German Army. The “Pitstop” is the German’s
international maintenance and repair service desk.
The Pitstop consist of a schirrmeister (the supervisor),
a crew of four Sergeants, and a building mechanic shop
Afghanistan

that is capable of tire repairs, fluid changes, welding,

transmission repairs, suspension repairs, and can be
used as a paint shop. The Germans recently placed an
American flag in their shop to signify that all Seabees
are welcome. Seabees and Germans have worked
SGT Yence preparing coffee for the
together since January 2010. Joint repairs have become start of their workday.
a typical routine in which Seabees and Germans work
together.
Det Marmal

The German Pitstop crew and I recently repaired

a MTVR water truck. The truck was dropped off by
EO2(SCW) Zachary Beam at the Pitstop due to an air
leak located in the right front water spout. Sergeant

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

Stephen and I received the MTVR and visually checked
it. After performing the visual inspection, the leak was
identified and tools were prepared to fix the air leak on
the waterspout hose. Sergeant Stephen took the lead
on the repairs, welding the leak close.
Detail Marmal Seabees have provided repair
assistance to the German mechanics in tire repairs,
hydraulic hose and starter replacements for German
CESE. Also, Seabees have moved German cargo within
SGT Christian changing a tire on a
the German maintenance yard. non-tactical German vehicle.
U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

U.S. Navy photo by CMCN Samuel Rozeboom

EO3 Paterson ordered a flag for the German Pitstop Germans at the Pitstop (across from the Seabee 95
to hang on their wall of other flags. yard) working on a non-tactical vehicle.
Page 24
 Bonding Through Hardship
By LT Luke Cowley

U.S. Navy photo by CMCS Erik Jensen

s

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Through adversity and difficult

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situations relationships are developed

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and strengthened. As steel is made
stronger by a forges fire, the bonds of
friendship are tempered to withstand
the tests of time. Men who fought in
World War II speak with reverence of
On a winter convoy in northern Afghanistan.
the friends they fought alongside; of

U.S. Navy photo by LT Luke Cowley
Afghanistan
their valor, their loyalty, and often of a
willingness to sacrifice one’s own life
in their defense. This devotion came
through the shared difficult conditions
and horrors of war.
Though the sacrifice of our grandfathers
and great grandfathers in WWII surpasses

Det Meymaneh
what the Seabees of NMCB FOUR, DET
Meymaneh have seen and experienced
here in the valleys of Afghanistan, we
CMCN Daniel Thelen and CM2 Sloan Farrier level
have felt a little of this camaraderie built
off HESCO’s at FOB Griffin Afghanistan through hardship.
DET Meymaneh has faced months of
fighting the winter cold and weather,
U.S. Navy photo by CMCS Erik Jensen

ever changing mission requirements,

grueling physical labor (filling HESCO’s
by shovel), spending winter months
sandwiched between buildings in
an MGTPS tent with a gravel floor,
enduring the smells associated with a
five day shower schedule, working in
temperatures in excess of 120 degrees,
EO2 Chance Keiter, EOCN Kyle Howard and nearly non-existent MWR facilities, poor
CMCN Daniel Thelen on haircut day. communications with home, and many
other trials.
Through it all the Seabees have stood
by each other’s side, lifting each other
up. They have unified to complete
difficult missions, to help each other
achieve qualifications, to maintain high
morale and to help strengthen the self-
U.S. Navy photo

confidence of each member. They work,

play and laugh together. Through the
trials have come bonds of friendship,
Detail Meymaneh FOB Griffin 14 July 2010. which will always be remembered.
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FOUR
As I tried to come up with a topic to summarize our deployment to FOB Griffin (Meymaneh,
Afghanistan) I figured the best way would be for the troops to give their perspective, so I asked them
to answer a few questions.
U.S T
. PA
CI F I C F L E E
What was the funniest thing this deployment?
“When we loaded the D7G dozer onto a jingle truck and the fifth wheel and tractor raised up six feet off
the ground. The look on CM3 Parker’s face was priceless.” CE3 Andrew Rexroad.
“When EOC Glenn Goodwin told CE3 Andrew Miles “”Miles, you may be retarded, but at least you
can throw.”” EO2 Chance Keiter.
“When SW2 Matthew Long played his famous Afghanistan song on the fourth of July in front of the
Afghan Regional Police Chief and all the Latvians and Norwegians at the PRT.” CMCS Erik Jensen.
Afghanistan

What was the most challenging thing you dealt with this deployment?
“Working with a brand new crew and getting to know each other’s styles and ways of working
together.” BU3 Derrick Cripe.
“Moving something to build something, to move something to build something.” Detail Meymaneh.
What was the most memorable thing this deployment?
“The night we got a truck stuck in a wadi and spent the night in a tiny Afghan National Police HESCO
fortress in a really bad neighborhood.” BU1 Juan Selvera.
“When the loader backed into a local dump truck while one truck was honking its horn and five people
Det Meymaneh

were screaming at the top of their lungs.” CM2 Sloan Farrier.

What was the craziest thing you saw this deployment?
“When everyone was standing around the fuel tank that fell out of the loader like it was the biggest beer
ever, and the loader was still running and had made a trip to the stockpile and back.”
CMCA Bradley Nelson.
“When ‘Super Duty’ the local crane almost tipped over while moving T walls and just about destroyed
a jingle truck.” EO2 Chance Keiter.
“When a sister service was attempting to pull out a stuck “Hum-vee” with a gator.”
EO1 Christopher Marceau.
“When the scrap wood fires were large enough for the Detail across town at the PRT to call and ask
what we were burning.” CMCS Erik Jensen.
What was the coolest thing you got to do this deployment?
“When I was able to initiate the charge to destroy some UXO for the Norwegian EOD team.”
CE3 Andrew Miles.
“When I got to destroy a two story mud guard tower with the excavator and when I got to demolish a
building with the D7G dozer.” EOCN Kyle Howard.
What part of the weather was your favorite and why?
“The snow because we had running snowball fights for days.” CMCA Steven Mcalister.
“The snow because we had a long snowball fight with the Afghan National Army guards and they
would throw snowballs as hard as they could.” LT Luke Cowley.
“The snow because the 2/121 Infantry made a snow and icicle fortress to defend against the raiding
Seabees who were able to overrun them after wearing them down for several days.”
CMCS Erik Jensen.
What would you never want to do again?
“Put up HESCO’s, fill them and then take them down again.” EO3 Justin Meadors.
“To put up HESCO’s in full battle rattle with a shovel.” CE3 Andrew Rexroad.
What is the most memorable thing this deployment?
“The camaraderie of the detail here at FOB Griffin.” BUCA Nathan Scott.
As you can tell we had an extremely successful deployment. We would like to thank all of our families,
friends, sister services, multinational forces, fellow Seabees, and total strangers that supported us in
more ways than we can count. I would like to personally thank everyone for their hard work and
determination to go the extra mile and find nontraditional ways of getting the job done. We overcame
a great many obstacles and left a much better place than we started with. I look forward to working
with you all in the coming months and we all look forward to seeing our families and loved ones in the
near future!
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 4th of July in Afghanistan
By BU3 (SCW) Gafayat Akindele. s

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For most Americans, the 4th of July is a day of fun and merriment. For troops Fa

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deployed to Afghanistan, it is a reminder of the very reason they joined the service –

u
o
to ensure freedom around the world.

f
At Meymaneh Airfield, the different nations stationed within the camp joined forces
to make the 4th of July memorable for everyone. The celebration was a two-day event
beginning with colors and the change of the ensign led by Senior Chief Builder Cloves
Tennis.
“I feel proud to have participated in colors”, said Steelworker Third Class Veronica
Guerrero. “It is something I have never done before and it reminds me of why I joined.

Afghanistan
This makes me proud to be an American.”
Among other events were several sporting activities including “bucketball”,
volleyball, basketball, and tug-of-war. The peak of the celebration was the traditional
cutting of the cake, which was performed by the youngest enlisted member –

Det Meymaneh Airfield

Steelworker Constructionman Drew Pollard – and the oldest officer in United States
military present on camp.
“I can honestly say that the people that planned this event did a great job,” said
Steelworker Constructionman Augusta Griffiths. “I had such a great time with my
friends and although I would have loved to be home for the celebration, it’s an event
that I am proud to be part of and will remember forever.”
U.S. Navy photo by ENS Kyle Strausbaugh

U.S. Navy photo by ENS Kyle Strausbaugh

Det Meymaneh Airfield placing concrete. BU2 Showers and UT3 Garcia working on forms.
U.S. Navy photo by ENS Kyle Strausbaugh

U.S. Navy photo by ENS Kyle Strausbaugh

BUCS Tennis and SW1 Ballon finishing the concrete. Det Meymaneh Airfield placing concrete.

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 ILE
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By BUCN(SCW) Jenell Chase

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The Seabees of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) FOUR, on board
Forward Operating Base (FOB) Sharana, participate in weekly boxing matches against
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CI F I C F L E E
T other residence of the FOB. Every Saturday evening when the Seabees finish up their
long and tiresome work week, a few crew members save some energy for a ghastly
three round match against whoever is willing to step into the ring.
On Saturday June 20th, 2010 the matches started at 1900. Construction Electrician
Alan Thomas was the first to represent the Seabees for the night. The fight started with
Thomas receiving a blow to the nose, resulting in the first draw of blood. After the
initial strike Thomas took the lead for all three rounds getting off the most powerful
Afghanistan

and daunting hits. Thomas’ hits threw off his opponent so much, his opponent turned
his back in efforts to flee. Thomas dominated the fight and won in the third round
when the referee broke up the fight, stating that his opponent has had enough.
“I wanted to see how well I would do. I’ve never boxed before, so my strategy was
confidence. I trained for a little bit before my match and the day of my match I had
all my friends rooting for me, which really gave me an ego boost… In the first round
when he made my nose bleed I was sort of stunned, my only reaction was to retaliate
as strong as possible, until he had enough,” said Thomas.
The second to represent NMCB FOUR was Builder Constructionman Joshua Wetsel.
Det Sharana

Trading hits, blow for blow with an opponent who outweighed him by 20 pounds,
Westel put up a good fight. In the end it was a judges’ decision that resulted in a loss
for Wetsel. After the match it was discovered that Wetsel’s opponent had an amateur
record with several knock outs under his belt.
Last but not least, Construction Electrician Third Class Travis Yzenski boxed for
all three rounds, with his strategy being to wear his opponent out; he ducked out of
the way of every punch, and came back with powerful strike that ended in a win by
unanimous decision.
“I wanted to fight so that I can represent the Seabees. A lot of other branches tend
to underestimate us Seabees, not realizing it takes a lot to do what we do. We’re all
strong in one-way or another. Boxing just ended up being one of mine. I tried it out
and succeeded beyond most people’s expectations, and now I can go home satisfied,”
said Yzenski.
As exasperating as boxing may be the Seabees continue to accept challenges on a
daily basis and always give their best. As the months draw to an end for their 2010
deployment, the Seabees stay motivated and committed to representing the Battalion.
Whether they build or fight the Seabees continue to bring on a strong and fearless
reputation for NMCB FOUR.
U.S. Navy photo by BUCN Jenell Chase

U.S. Navy photo by BUCN Jenell Chase

BUCN Wetsel trading blows in the final round. CE3 Yzenski on countering with a left hook.

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 We Build, We Fight, We Box
By SWCN Victoria Bell s

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Recently the Seabee’s have brought a whole new meaning to their motto “We Fa

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build, we fight.” In addition to our troops having won the hearts and minds of the

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Afghanistan people our Seabee’s also decided to take part in weekly boxing matches

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held every Saturday night. During the events a collection is gathered in support of the
families of the fallen soldiers on FOB Sharana, so far totaling over $4,000.
Arriving at the entrance of the maintenance bay, the atmosphere is simply
overwhelming with excitement, adrenaline and testosterone. The bay is filled with
people shouting and cheering on the participants brave enough to enter the ring for a
grueling three rounds of swift jabs and heavy haymakers.
“There is nothing quite like it. Watching a boxing match on television is one thing,

Afghanistan
but seeing a junior troop punching out a Chief or an Officer just leaves you stunned,”
said CE3 Jamie Hernandez.
The fights are open to anyone willing to participate, whether it is an officer vs.
enlisted member, Army vs. Navy, or military vs. civilian, as long as they are in the
same weight class and medically checked out they can enter the ring. Last minute
challengers are also welcome into the ring, but only if an opponent does not show or
has come to terms that they just don’t have the guts to compete.
One of the many Seabees from Detail Regional Command-East, Builder
Constructionman Mackenzie Dupons, entered the ring to face this nerve wrecking
challenge. It was a last minute decision as the announcer called into the roaring crowd

Det Sharana
for any takers for the females and Dupons spontaneously jumped at the opportunity
to test her skills. Although Dupons gave it her all, her opponent, an Army Officer
that had trained for this sporting event claimed the sweet taste of victory that night.
Regardless of the outcome, NMCB FOUR praises Dupons and all Seabees who had the
courage for setting foot in the ring.
“Sometimes you just got to go for it and stretch past your limits, certain or uncertain,”
said Dupons.
Out of the 14 fights our Seabee’s participated in, a total of 9 were won, with the 5
losses coming by judges decision. The Seabees can definitely hold their own in the end;
that’s exactly what CECN Jeremy Davis proved when the match was brought to an end
in mere seconds. His opponent was simply no match for his skill and determination
to succeed.
Other Seabee contenders that night included, BU3 Blake Reiger, BUCN Anthony
SimsCambell and BUCN Michael Jones. All put up a wonderful effort but only one
out of the three walked away a champion, and that champion was Jones, who won by
unanimous decision.
“We are blessed with highly motivated and ambitious people; it not only shows on
the jobsite but also in the ring. I couldn’t be more proud of what the men and women
of NMCB FOUR have accomplished this deployment,” said LT Jeremy Nevins.
U.S. Navy photo by SWCN Victoria Bell

U.S. Navy photo by SWCN Victoria Bell

BUCN Simscampbell laying the smackdown on his Go Navy beat Army!

opponent.
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 ILE
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Seabees Expand Combat Outpost in Eastern Afghanistan
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By LT Peter Cali
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Twenty-five Seabees from Naval
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Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR

U.S. Navy photo by LT Peter Cali

have drastically changed the appearance
and operational capability of Combat
Outpost (COP) Sayed Abad in eastern
Afghanistan. Within the last two months
Afghanistan

they have completed the construction

of new berthing, renovated existing
berthing and office spaces for members
the 1st Battalion of the 503rd Infantry Regiment. They have also renovated the Sayed
Abad Afghan National Police station located in the adjacent district center, as well as
built an office for the Afghanistan National Army.
Det Sharana

On top of expanding the capacity of the COP, the Seabees have completed numerous
projects that improved living conditions for everyone on the COP. By installing
desperately needed air conditioning units in multiple living spaces, the Bees helped
cool down the billeting just in time for the hot summer months. Constructionman
Electrician (SCW) Frank Holdcroft has played a huge role by installing new electrical
outlets and lights and upgrading the outdated electrical work in numerous “B Huts”
and the gym.
“Most of the electrical work on the COP was in disarray when we got here, but it is
getting better every day,” said Holdcroft.
The Seabees have also spent time on smaller projects such as decks, stairs and
furniture. They take pride in making life better for other military personnel because
they know that small things such as furniture and stairs can go a long way towards
making daily life better for both U.S. and Afghan military personnel.
Ten additional Seabees arrived at the COP to help tackle a new, high priority project
that will greatly improve the efficiency of combat operations in and around Sayed
Abad. They were sent forward to build “Super B-huts” which will serve as Tactical
Operation Centers, administration and logistics centers, and billeting. Led by Crew
leaders BU3 Jeremiah Hill and BU3 Justin Wesoloski, the Seabees completed two
“B-huts”.
“We hit the ground running when we arrived in Afghanistan, and we will be working
hard until the day we leave,” said Hill.
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 Combat Outpost Jaghato
By BU2(AW) Brian Hansen s

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With the troops surge in Afghanistan on the rise, the push to provide force protection Fa

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and additional berthing is at its highest demand. This demand is particularly evident

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in every new or undeveloped Combat Outpost (COP) in the country. Recently, nine

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Seabees from NMCB FOUR, Detail Regional Command-East, established a fully
operational COP within one month in Jaghato, Afghanistan.
Jaghato is located in the eastern region of Afghanistan resting high in the mountains
with an elevation of 8,500 ft. Jaghato has a semi-flat desert terrain with temperatures
reaching over 100ºF during the hottest time of the year. These conditions created
a harsh working environment for the Seabees of Jaghato. During the 37 days the
crewmembers were at Jaghato, they worked 12 hours per day in “full battle rattle”

Afghanistan
(Kevlar helmet, tactical vest, and 60 lbs of plated armor).
COP Jaghato was the first “Green” COP
established by NMCB FOUR, having to be

U.S. Navy photo by BUCN Douglas Lane

constructed from the ground up. When
the Detail arrived, there was limited
force protection and barely enough room
available to support 80 soldiers and
local Afghanistan police. The Seabees
constructed seven guard towers on top of
HESCO barriers and stairs leading to the

Det Sharana
towers. With the completion of these guard
towers, the COP was able to maintain a
complete 360º perimeter and implement
a much needed force protection plan. In
addition to the guard towers the DET also Newly constructed guard tower.
built 22 separate berthing facilities, a Battalion Aid Station, and two Galley tents.
“Going to COP Jaghatu was very interesting to say the least, definitely not the normal
job. I do believe it was an overall good experience and a great success!” said BUCN
Douglas Lane.
To support the quality of life in Jaghato the Seabees provided air conditioning to
all the newly built facilities greatly improving everyone’s morale and welfare. The
electricians also provided an electrical power grid that supplied power to all the
new facilities. Constructing a newly established green COP was such a rewarding
challenge for the entire crew. Knowing that it only takes a few amazing Seabees with
the dedication to get the job done reflects greatly upon NMCB FOUR.
“It was really nice to see our hard work make such a huge difference in this war right
now,” said BU3(SCW) Robert Russell.
While developing the COP, some of the
greatest hurdles came in dealing with
U.S. Navy photo by SBU2 Brian Hansen

different groups. The language barrier was

a tremendous issue in dealing with the
Afghanistan National Army (ANA), the
Afghanistan National Police (ANP) and
the Asian Security Group (ASG). Living
conditions were also rough while on the
COP. The DET exemplified the Seabee
“Can Do” attitude when having to wash
clothes by hand, take baby wipe showers,
and eat MRE’s for 30 days.
“Working with the U.S. Army, the UT3 Yancey washing clothes by hand.
Afghanistan Army & Police was a great
cultural experience. It was amazing to see the people actually using and appreciating
our construction, it was a truly amazing experience, wow!” said UT3(SCW) Mark
Yancey.
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 ILE
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Mission Accomplished
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By EO2 Michael Ivey

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With the lessons taken from the first well (deepest borehole drilled in Seabee history
I might add), the Water Well Team pushed out from Deh Dadi and laid out their wares
U.S
at Forward Operating Base Khilaguy. Twenty-one days is what they were given to go
. PA T
CI F I C F L E E

from boots on ground, to full functioning water supply; they did it in 18 days.
“We try and teach our guys that there is no such thing as a “failure,” said the team’s
chief and former Water Well NEC Instructor, EOC(SCW) Jason Phillips. “The wells
we drill are exploratory by nature and there is no promise that we will find what we
are looking for... but a well as successful as this one will definitely send us all home
Afghanistan

with a greater sense of accomplishment than the last one did,” said Phillips. The first
well that NMCB FOUR drilled during the deployment was over 1,500 feet deep and
entirely through clay. While no water was found, the geological data was the first
ever complied in the area and will be used to better the process for every water well
team to follow in NMCB FOUR’s footsteps.
The well drilled in Khilaguy was, if anything, the
antithesis of the one drilled in Deh Dadi. Where they
Det Water Well

found clay in one, they found sand, gravel, and calcite

in the other. The invisible reward of geological data
gave way to the deluge of water that flowed from the
pump abundantly. “We know that both of the wells
drilled were successful,” said one of the tower leaders,

U.S. Navy photo by LT George Fulton

EO3(SCW) Casey Hupp, “but when the average
person thinks of results in relation to a well they think
of water.”
As the Water Well Team begins to organize their
equipment for the convoy back, they do so with pride.
NMCB FOUR has not drilled a well in over six years
and this team has broken “the curse.” They have set
the record for the deepest borehole ever drilled by EO3 Hupp maintains a dry distance
Seabees and the team provided mission critical water after turning on the air compressor
to the Coalition forces of northern Afghanistan. Now during the air development phase of
the well completion process.
they are coming home.
U.S. Navy photo by LT George Fulton

U.S. Navy photo by LT George Fulton

The well site at Camp Khilaguy. EO2 Ivey wrestles a 6” casing into the air as EO3
Hupp operates the hoist. SW3 Cunningham and
CM2 Towndrow stand by to assist.
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