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Seabee Construction Teams in Iraq Transfer Authority

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081001-04
Release Date: 10/1/2008 6:49:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kenneth W. Robinson, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 27 Public Affairs

AL ASAD, Iraq (NNS) -- Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 27, homeported in Brunswick, Maine, received command authority for Seabee construction activities in Western Iraq from NMCB 17, homeported at Fort Carson, Colo., during a transfer of authority ceremony Sept. 20.

The official party included Capt. James Schroeder, commander 1st Naval Construction Regiment; Capt. Susanne Openshaw, commanding officer NMCB 17; and Cmdr. James Robbins, commanding officer NMCB 27.

Schroeder began the ceremony by commending NMCB 17 on its performance in al-Anbar province and charged NMCB 27 to continue the high level of professional services that NMCB 17 had provided in support of Multi-National Forces West.

"I have watched NMCB 17 as they rolled through their mobilization, and I have marveled at the great accomplishments that they have achieved while they have been deployed," said Schroeder. "All throughout the theater, NMCB 17 has done a great job of supporting the transition of Multi-National Forces the Marines and Sailors throughout the area of operation. They have done a great job and have a lot to be proud of."

Openshaw delivered the turn-over remarks on behalf of NMCB 17.

"It's obvious to me the pride that you, [NMCB 17] have of what you have accomplished," said Openshaw.

She went on to mention the numerous projects NMCB 17 completed to include: The Baghdadi Bridge, Haditha boat ramp, culvert capping and water-well drilling projects.

"These are the projects most mentioned, but by no means were these all of them. We completed nearly 100 projects just in al-Anbar province," Openshaw said.

Command Master Chief Robert Griseto retired the NMCB 17 colors.

Robbins waited for his Command Master Chief, Richard Heiland, to hoist the NMCB 27 colors before addressing both battalions.

"NMCB 17 has left their mark in Iraq and Afghanistan, and now challenges NMCB 27 to pick up the tools and weapons and continue the Seabee traditions in country," said Robbins. "To the men and women of NMCB 27, now is your time. You are the men and women that will write the next chapter in the Seabee legend. I am lucky and honored to have an opportunity to lead such a great battalion, and I have every confidence that we will be successful with our mission."

After addressing the battalions, Robbins reported to Schroeder, "Commodore, NMCB 27 is standing by for tasking… Ooh Rah 27!"

For more news from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 27, visit www.navy.mil/local/nmcb27/.