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Coalition Forces' Top NCO Recognizes NMCB-22 Personnel

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS051129-10
Release Date: 11/29/2005 4:16:00 PM

By Journalist 1st Class Leslie A. Shively, NMCB 22

AL ASAD, Iraq (NNS) -- U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Mellinger, Multi-National Force, Iraq, paid a surprise visit to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 22's quarterdeck Nov. 11, speaking to Seabees and recognizing individuals for their service.

Mellinger mixed humor with serious remarks, answering questions about Iraq, its people and the U.S. military's mission.

"They're eager to be in charge of their own country," Mellinger said. "Most of them understand they've got a responsibility to the greater whole. It's about showing them we're here to help develop a safe and secure environment. A lot of the projects you're working on directly influence that."

Just before presenting his coin, Mellinger described and explained its design.

"In the center is a map of Iraq with nine points and on the outside edge there are 11 points, representing 9-11. On the other side is the symbol of Multi-National Force, Iraq, in English and Arabic."

As Mellinger handed a coin to Steelworker 1st Class Robert Wilson, he thanked the Seabee for his work and for being part of the Multi-National Force, Iraq.

"There's a lot of magic being done around this country, no pun intended," said Mellinger as he shook the hand of Construction Mechanic 2nd Class Derrick Majchszak's (whose nickname is "Magic") while giving him a coin.

Fellow Seabees witnessing the ceremony cheered Wilson and Majchszak.

After the coin presentation, Mellinger emphasized the significance of the tradition. "I presented coins to a couple of Seabees who'd gone out of their way - above and beyond - to assist others," he said. "I've always got time to stop and recognize those that are making an extra effort. It's one of the privileges and joys of the job."

"We stayed after regular hours, set up lights and worked 'til right before midnight," said Wilson, explaining the efforts that he and Steelworker 3rd Class Christopher Green, who was not present to receive his coin at the ceremony, made to ensure that extra vehicle armor worked properly.

"I was helping out Marine and Army personnel coming off of convoys, putting new tires on their vehicles and such," Majchszak said.