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BMU-1 Celebrates History, 58th Birthday

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS070717-01
Release Date: 7/17/2007 8:25:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Arianne Anderson, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Pacific

CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- Beachmaster Unit (BMU) 1 celebrated its 58th birthday July 13, at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado with a ceremony honoring its past.

Currently, four of the six Beachmaster Teams are deployed around the world in support of the global war on terrorism.

“The pride and professionalism of BMU-1’s men and women is remarkable,” said BMU-1 Commanding Officer Cmdr. James D. Fowler. “They are tremendous.”

During the ceremony, BMU-1 honored the forefathers of the Beachmasters, the Naval Beach Battalions and veterans of World War II and members of the 6th and 7th Naval Beach Battalions, who took part in D-Day June 6, 1944.

Robert Watson, a member of the 6th Naval Beach Battalion, spoke about the events that took place on Omaha Beach.

“We spent 28 days on the beach and we took a real beating, but the young men took responsibility and performed magnificently,” said Watson. “I am very grateful to be invited here to speak; it’s a real honor and privilege.”

Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class (SW/AW) Brandon Stallings, BMU-1, said it was a great honor to meet some of the men who started the Beach Master Unit during World War II.

“I have big shoes to fill,” said Stallings. “I am so glad I get to hear what they went through and learn about their experiences and their heritage. I think it’s very important to honor their traditions and heritage today.”

BMU-1 also remembered one of its recent heroes, Lt. Cmdr. Robert J. Manning, BMU-1’s 19th commanding officer.

During an official dedication ceremony to honor Manning, BMU-1 and members of his family, unveiled a plaque naming Manning Park after the fallen hero. Manning died from cancer while in command August 1986.

“New pride, honor, faith, integrity and dedication to duty were attributes woven into the fabric of the life of this industrious, competent, enthusiastic and loyal naval officer,” said Lt. Cmdr. Richard Rossetti, BMU-1 executive officer. “His commitment to excellence was the motivating factor in every task that he pursued. Respected by all, officer and enlisted alike, Manning was a total professional and outstanding officer in every respect.”