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AFRICOM Commander Visits NMCB 4

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS081002-03
Release Date: 10/2/2008 10:41:00 AM

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SCW/SW/AW) Ronald Gutridge, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 Det Horn of Africa Public Affairs

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (NNS) -- Gen. William "Kip" Ward, commander, United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), visited Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 camp and project sites in Djibouti and discussed the future of AFRICOM Sept. 23.

Ward spoke with Seabees from junior enlisted to senior leadership and witnessed firsthand NMCB 4's ability to support his vision of greater security and development. Touring the command's central tool toom, material liaison office and Alfa Company yard, Ward saw the tools, equipment and supplies that the Seabees utilize to perform their day-to-day operations.

"I was proud to have the opportunity to explain to the general how Alfa Company operates," said Equipment Operator Constructionman Apprentice Corinne Kuhn, Alfa Company collateral equipment manager. "To show that there is a lot more to it than just operating the equipment and vehicles, and to demonstrate how all the different aspects of training fall into place."

Later that day, Ward observed NMCB 4 hard at work upgrading the Nagad village's water system. Led by Project Leader Utilities Technician 3rd Class Daniel Hardison, a crew of six Seabees is currently working to upgrade the present system to supply cleaner, safer water by constructing a concrete foundation for a new water distribution system, rerouting existing water lines, and installing a separate water trough for the village animals.

"I was very honored to describe to General Ward the construction aspect of our project and how it will significantly reduce the chance of sickness and disease," said Hardison. "He was impressed by our concern for the well-being of the villagers and our efforts to improve their lives."

Ward expressed to the Seabees how important the humanitarian work being done was, and what a positive effect it is making on the African nation.

"As we do our part to help bring about greater security, as that part supports greater development, [it in turn supports] greater institutions of government that bring to their people those things that satisfy their basic needs," said Ward. "You are at the forefront of that in all that you do."

NMCB 4 Detachment Horn of Africa is currently on a six-month deployment supporting Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa and is completing missions in various countries in Eastern Africa.

For more news from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4, visit www.navy.mil/local/nmcb4/.