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NMCB 4 Extends a Lending Hand to the Iraqi Military

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090124-05
Release Date: 1/24/2009 9:10:00 PM

From Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Public Affairs

Persian Gulf (NNS) -- Since the start of their six month, deployment Seabees from Naval Mobile construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 deployed on the oil platforms in the Northern Arabian Gulf have been undertaking numerous quality of life (QOL) projects to improve life on Khawr Al Amayah Oil Terminal (KAAOT).

During their current QOL project, Seabees have been helping the Iraqi Marines improve their living conditions. Working hand in hand with the Iraqis, the Seabees improved the cleanliness of their complex by cleaning underneath walking grates. Seabees also built shelves around the complex which allowed the Iraqis to store food and water up off the deck. Currently, these Seabees are working to repair ceilings in a few of the Iraqi berthing units to help prevent further structural damage.

The Iraqi military personnel were tremendously grateful for the improvements and extended their thanks to the NMCB 4 detachment.

"It was definitely a great experience to help out the Iraqis," Steelworker 2nd Class Ryan Taylor said. "They watched what we were doing to try and learn how and do it themselves. It was an overall great time working with them."

"I'm just glad to help them out." said Construction Electrician 2nd Class Eric C. Sefcik.

"The crew that I have aboard with me is by far the most motivated in the fleet, in my opinion," stated Utilitiesman 2nd Class Jason R. Grubbs. "When I give them their tasking, they just say, 'Hoorah!' and before I know it, I am looking at a quality finished product. This is probably the best deployment I have been on."

Preparing for the transition of responsibilities to the Iraqis, the U.S. forces are doing everything they can to make a smooth transition and ensuring everything is in good working order.

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