Expeditionary Express March 2017 by Navy Expeditionary Combat Command/NECC Pacific

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Navy

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NECCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Civilian of the Month

NECC-Pacific Forces Participate 5 in AFCEA WEST 17

Seabee Reflects on VJ-Day World War II veteran Jack Mace

EODMU 6 Receives Award - the Battle Efficiency Award

Com m and

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Pu bl i cat io n

103-Year-Old Seabee Reflects on service

MARCH 2017

Vol. 1 Issue 8

UCT 2 Reopens Deep-Draft Wharf

Expeditionary E xpre s s NECC in the Spotlight

Executive’s Corner -- Celebrating junior & senior Civilians of the Year

RICHMOND, Va. -- World War II veteran and Seabee Jack Mace reflects on marking the end of the World War II or “V-J Day” while stationed in Hawaii in 1945.

NECC’s Civilian of the Month -- Clarence “CW”

103-Year-Old Seabee Reflects on Service --

White

NECC Overview NECC-Pacific Forces Participate in AFCEA 5

WEST 17 -- SAN DIEGO -- Navy Expeditionary

Combat Comman AFCEA WEST Conference at the San Diego Convention Center, Feb. 21-23.

Former Seabee and NECC Civilian to Retire After 61 Years of Dedicated Navy Service --

VIRGNIA BEACH, Va. -- Not many Navy civilians can say they served their nation for more than six decades, however, for a civilian assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), he can. 6

World War II Seabee Reflects on VJ-Day --

EOD Mobile Unit 6 Receives Battle Efficiency Award -- VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -The Sailors of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 6 were awarded the Battle Efficiency (Battle “E”) Award during a ceremony at EODMU 6 headquarters on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek Feb. 26.

EOD Speaker Series Gets Underway with a Talk about TBI -- SAN DIEGO -- Explosive

Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Group One kicked off the EOD Speaker Series, March 3, with Cmdr. Grant Kidd, Department Head of Neurology at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

UCT 2 Reopens Deep-Draft Wharf -- DIEGO

GARCIA -- Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 2’s Construction Dive Detachment Bravo (CDDB) completed maintenance and light demolition to clear a deep-draft wharf in Diego Garcia, reopening the wharf for use to the fleet in December 2016.

NECC-Pacific Forces Participates in Read Across America in San Diego -- SAN DIEGO

-- Sailors from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Pacific (NECC-Pacific) commands participated in Read Across America event at Juarez Lincoln Elementary School in San Diego, March 2.

Brave Men of Dong Xoai --Reprint of a portion

of an article that appeared in the February 1967 issue of All Hands Magazineonor of the 75th anniversary of the Seabees, here is “the story of a small group of U.S. fighting mean at Dong Xoai, Vietnam. During a short period, when they were attacked by the Viet Cong, they fought a heroic battle against great odds.

how to get help

/NavyExpeditionaryCombatCommand

@COMNECC

NECC Public Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg Comm: (757) 462-4316 ext. 252 Email: jennifer.cragg@navy.mil

NECC Public Affairs Staff MCC Edward Kessler MC2 (SW/AW) Travis DiPerna

C e l e b r a t i n g j u n i o r & s e n i o r Civilians of the Year Please join Rear Adm. Brian Brakke and myself in congratulating

our Junior and Senior Civilians of the Year (COYs) for 2016. As part of our annual civilian personnel process, each NECC command with at least 10 civilians are eligible to select Senior (GS-12 and above) and Junior (up to GS-11) Civilians of the Year. Congratulations and thank you for your contribution to our Expeditionary Force!

COMNECC:

EODGRU 2:

COMNECCPAC:

EXWDC:

Senior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Kevin Zarth Junior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Jack Espina

Senior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Darryl Hewitt Junior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Rusty Deal

Senior Civilian of the Year: Ms. Lynn Cardella Civilian of the Year: Mr. Steve Blaess Junior Civilian of the Year: Ms. Adora Racaza

CRG 1:

NAVELSG:

Senior Civilian of the Year: Mrs. Stacey Oitzman Senior Civilian of the Year: Mr. John Cross, Sr. Junior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Vincent Leone Junior Civilian of the Year: Ms. Ericka Adolph

CRG 2:

Senior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Ed Haislip Junior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Andy Jackson

EODGRU 1:

Senior Civilian of the Year: Ms. Suzanne Pike Junior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Steve Joyce

NCG 1:

Senior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Michael Abare Junior Civilian of the Year: Mrs. Tammy Lindsey

NCG 2:

Senior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Rickey McGlade Junior Civilian of the Year: Mr. Patrick Atwara

NEIC:

Civilian of the Year: Ms. Nannette Murray

Necc’s Civilian

o f

CLARENCE WHITE

t h e

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. -- Navy

Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) announced the selection of Clarence “CW” White as its March Civilian of the Month, March 8. White, who is from Richmond, serves in NECC’s manpower and personnel department. White retired from active duty at the rank of lieutenant commander after serving 27 years, and arrived onboard NECC March 2016. He has quickly adapted to the fast pace of civilian service in the U.S. Navy. White was appreciative of his leadership for recognizing him for his efforts. “This was something that was totally unexpected, and I’m thankful for my chain of command that nominated me and believed in me,” said White.

USFF SEA & SHORE

mo nth

White is responsible for all civilian personnel management actions for more than 300 NECC and NECC Pacific force civilians and rating officers worldwide across the expeditionary type command. While White enjoys civilian life, he does miss the opportunity to serve alongside Sailors. “I liked being able to see how my leadership affected and molded them,” added White, who applies what he learned in his Navy career while serving in the civilian force. “Totally different type of human resources administration, but the same principles apply,” said White. Nancy Harned, executive director for NECC and NECC Pacific, credited White for his initiative as a training facilitator for the Department of Defense Personnel Management and Appraisal Program (DPMAP). “CW has embraced the ‘Team Spirit’ of NECC by volunteering to assist as a training facilitator for the DoD Personnel Management and Appraisal Program, known as New Beginnings,” said Harned. “CW has provided training to many civilians and supervisors, and will soon travel throughout NECC and NECC Pacific force commands as part of the team of trainers for this very important program.”

SA ILOR S o f t h e

USFF Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Fiorillo

ORFOLK (NNS) – Adm. Phil Davidson, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces (USFF) announced the 2016 USFF Fleet Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year (SOY) during a ceremony hosted by the Hampton Roads Navy League at the Half Moone Cruise Center in Norfolk, March 10. Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 1st Class Courtney Evers of Navy Information Operations Detachment Kaneohe Bay was named the 2016 Sea Sailor of the Year and Personnel Specialist 1st Class Aliscia Malone of U.S. Navy Expeditionary Combat Command won Shore Sailor of the Year. “All the Sailor of the Year candidates represent the best the United States Navy has to offer. They all exemplify the attributes of integrity, initiative, accountability, and toughness. The selection

Y E AR

process was not an easy one,” said Davidson. “Petty Officers Evers and Malone deserve this honor and are role models for the rest of the fleet.” The two winners were called on stage with the admiral to be recognized as the crowd, including those whom they competed against, applauded. The candidates spent the week participating in several Navy heritage events as well as being interviewed by a panel of master chief petty officers as the final winners were determined. Malone was proud to have been selected and recognized that she was up against the best in the fleet. She also thanked her biggest supporter, her husband. “No one person can be here alone. This is such an honor.” . Malone will advance to the final selection process for the Chief of Naval Operations Shore Sailor of the Year.

N E C C OVERVIEW NECC-Pacific Forces Participate in AFCEA WEST 17 By Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

SAN

DIEGO -Navy Expeditionary Combat Command’s (NECC) Pacific capabilities were on display at the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association’s (AFCEA WEST) Conference at the San Diego Convention Center, Feb. 21-23. SAN DIEGO (Feb. 21, 2017) Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, right, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), speaks to Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Vincent Intrieri at the NECC exhibit at WEST 2017.

For 27 years, AFCEA WEST has brought together military and industry leaders to network and discuss the challenges facing the fleet today and the technology and techniques of tomorrow that will improve security.

During the panel discussion Brakke highlighted new technology and platforms such as the MK VI Patrol Boat supporting high value unit escorts and the MK 18 Mod 2 Kingfish unmanned underwater vehicle that supports the Expeditionary Mine Countermeasure (ExMCM) mission.

Among the NECC-Pacific forces represented at this year’s conference are the Riverine Force, Explosive Ordnance Disposal and the Naval Construction Force Lt.j.g. Jeff Morehead, from EOD Mobile Unit One as part of a joint NECC-Pacific display in the exposition participated in WEST 17 and discussed the capabilities of exhibit space. ExMCM. “We brought gear we use most commonly in our training and operations,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Aaron Brown from Underwater Construction Team (UCT) Two. “At AFCEA WEST I have had the chance to talk with people from the tech community as well as veterans. It is interesting to see the possible technology available to the Naval Construction Force.”

“EOD is at AFCEA WEST to showcase the ExMCM construct and the full detect to engage sequence,” said Morehead.

Navy Expeditionary Combat Forces attended the yearly conference to bring more awareness to the support provided worldwide. NECC/NECC-Pacific is an enduring warfighting force providing sea-to-shore and inland In addition to displays, Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, operating environment capabilities across the full range commander NECC/NECC-Pacific participated in a panel of military operations which is focused on delivering discussion, “What are the Challenges in Delivering Ready combat-effective expeditionary forces ready for worldwide Forces today,” on Feb. 21, which was moderated by retired operations now and into the future. Vice Adm. Ted Branch, former deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare. For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www. facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy. Branch, said that the panelist were, “precisely the right leadership to address these challenges,” he continued For more news from Explosive Ordnance Disposal by adding, “As type commanders they are responsible for Group 1, visit www.navy.mil/local/eod1/. manning, training and equipping out forces.” The panelists discussed the important role of training and preparing their forces for deployment in order to remain a capable combat-ready force. Topics included training for the high-end fight, emerging threats, and the current limited fiscal environment within the Department of Defense.

N E C C OVERVIEW Former Seabee and NECC Civilian Retires After 61 Years of Dedicated Navy Service

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

VIRGNIA

BEACH, Va. – Not many Navy civilians can say they served their nation for more than six decades, however, for a civilian assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), he can. Capt. Craig Hamer (left), Frank Giordano (middle), and Lt. Michael Feeney cut a cake in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Seabees at the headquarters of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command.

Frank Giordano, who served on both active duty and in the reserves as a Seabee from 1959 to 1997 has applied the “Can-Do” lessons he learned during the early days of his Navy career throughout six decades of dedicated service. “What astonished me when I got into the Seabees was how well they take care of their fellow Seabees,” said Giordano, who added his favorite command was his assignment as the commanding officer of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 21. Giordano would serve at more than ten commands during his naval career.

Today the TYCOM expeditionary combat forces total more than 19,000 active and reserve component forces. Since its establishment in 2006, NECC has folded the expeditionary combat force under one umbrella of capabilities that includes explosive ordnance, Navy diving, coastal riverine, construction force, expeditionary logistics support, cargo handling, expeditionary warfare development, individual augmentee training, expeditionary combat camera support, and expeditionary intelligence capabilities.

Nearly 9,000 selected reserve Sailors are assigned to Giordano will officially retire from the navy this NECC and serve across the United States in commissioned, March on the 75th anniversary of the Seabees. On March 5, hardware-equipped units that train and deploy to meet Seabees worldwide will commemorate the 75th anniversary operational requirements around the globe. of the Seabees that established a force of more than 325,000 Serving both on active duty and in the reserves Giordano builders who could fight during World War II. knows firsthand the capabilities reservists contribute to NECC. Giordano arrived at NECC actually before it officially stood up in 2006 and is considered a plank owner. “When I was on active duty and in the reserves I He jokingly adds that he was the first civilian to have the had a lot of mentors who I am grateful for,” said Giordano. keys to the TYCOM spaces on board Joint Expeditionary “Fellow ‘old salt’ Seabees took me under their wing and I Base Little Creek-Fort Story. Since his arrival at NECC, have carried that leadership style and adapted my own Giordano has served as the logistics management officer. traditions by mentoring others throughout my career.”

World War II Seabee Reflects on VJ-Day

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

RICHMOND, Va. -- World War II veteran and

For Mace when he enlisted in the Navy he knew he wanted to be a Seabee.

Seabee Jack Mace reflects on marking the end of the World War II or “V-J Day” while stationed in Hawaii in 1945. “I’m inclined to build mechanically,” said Mace on deciding which rate to select when enter Mace, who celebrated his 90th birthday on ing the U.S. Navy. “That’s one reason I joined the Feb. 28, is one of the dwindling numbers of Sailors Seabees for, it also got me out of the regular Navy. who served as a Seabee during the Second World One thing when I think about the Navy you’re on the War. Mace served from 1944 to 1946 as a Motor Ma- water and the Seabees you’re on land. In case somechinist’s Mate 3rd Class. thing happened, I figured I could walk a lot further than I could swim. In all, I enjoyed it.” Mace’s granddaughter Amanda Hunsucker celebrated his milestone birthday with the extended Mace who still has a faded and worn copy of family of four children, 10 grandchildren and two the Blue Jacket manual from 1944 also maintains great children. his Navy-related patches, discharge paperwork, dog tags, and other memorabilia in an old cigar box. “’Pa’, as he is so affectionately known was then and still is a humble and honorable man,” said Mace was stationed at Pearl Harbor during his Hunsucker. “His quiet and unassuming manner is tour as a Seabee. The Battle of Pearl Harbor had octestament to his great character. As we came together curred less than three years earlier and the base was for his 90th birthday we were filled with pride and still dealing with the ramifications of the event. admiration for his desire to serve his country at such a young age. A most ordinary man who by his love “I would look across the bay at Ford Island for God, family, and country is one extraordinary and see the USS Arizona,” recalled Mace when rehero to all who know him.” flecting on what it was like to work there after the

1941 attack. “Looking at that all the time; it crossed your mind that you knew there was a crew of that ship still underwater over there.” Mace worked at the headquarters for the Seabee supply line which was in charge of shipping and receiving. His battalion would take cargo off of ships, move them to warehouses, sort them, and resupply ships that would then take the supplies to units in the Pacific. Additionally, he built portable ramps for use on island landings, operated a crane and built landing wharfs. “I don’t think any of us were looking for any glory or anything we just took our orders and did what we were told to do,” said Mace. “Done the best we could.” On V-Jay Day – Aug. 14, 1945, will forever be remembered as the day Japan surrendered signifying the end of the Second World War.

“I know when it was announced we were stationed on Red Hill,” said Mace. “What I did all day, I don’t really know, I don’t really remember, but I didn’t get out of hand too much, I didn’t end up in the brig.” With excitement in the air Mace added that everyone was really excited about V-J Day and there was definitely a “big hullabaloo.” When asked if being a Seabee was something that he has carried with him throughout his life, Mace responded by lifting up his shirt sleeve revealing a fighting bee tattoo on his upper arm. “Being a Seabee is being one for life,” said Mace. To view a video of Jack Mace discussing his experiences during World War II, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5ZYq22wsvU& feature=youtu.be. 9

N E C C OVERVIEW EOD Mobile Unit 6 Receives Battle Efficiency Award

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2 Public Affairs

VIRGINIA

BEACH, Va. – The Sailors of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 6 were awarded the Battle Efficiency (Battle “E”) Award during a ceremony at EODMU 6 headquarters on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek Feb. 26. Rear Adm. Brian Brakke speaks during an award ceromony in which the Sailors of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 6 were awarded the Battle Efficiency (Battle “E”) Award at EODMU 6 headquarters on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Feb. 26.

The Battle “E” is awarded annually to ships and units that display the maximum condition of readiness in their group and for their capability to perform their wartime responsibilities. Commands are graded in areas such as operational efficiency, readiness achievements, material readiness, training, schedule and cost performance. “Throughout their work-ups and deployment, the ‘Kegbusters’ of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 6 have set the standard for excellence,” said Capt. John Moulton, commodore of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2. “I am proud of their record of accomplishment this past year, culminating in their receiving the Battle ‘E.’”

Expeditionary Combat Command. “You have consistently and unequivocally proven your commitment to excellence in providing our Navy with forces ready to fight and win. I am immensely proud of you, your unit, and your selfless service. Congratulations Mobile Unit 6.” EODMU 6 is assigned to EODGRU 2, headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. EOD Group 2 oversees all East Coast-based Navy EOD mobile units, including one forward deployed mobile unit in Spain, as well as EOD Expeditionary Support Unit (EODESU) 2, EOD Training and Evaluation Unit (EODTEU) 2, and the only East Coast-based mobile diving and salvage unit, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2.

EODMU 6 Sailors recently returned from a six month deployment to U.S. Central Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility. During their deployment, EODMU 6 conducted theater engagement, partnership building, mine countermeasures, explosive ordnance disposal, salvagediving, and force protection operations. “The crew and families of EODMU 6 recently completed a very successful deployment supporting three geographic combatant commands through operations such as countering violent extremists and building partner capacity,” said Cmdr. Patrick Gerhardstein, commanding officer of EODMU 6. “It is a well-deserved honor for the unit to be selected for the Battle ‘E’.” “The Battle ‘E’ is about everyone coming together at a given point in time and exceling at what you do operationally, while taking care of each other and making sure that your team as a group is the best team out there,” said Rear Adm. Brian Brakke, commander, Navy

N E C C OVERVIEW UCT 2 Reopens Deep-Draft Wharf

By Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Ryan J. Filo

DIEGO GARCIA -- Underwater

Construction Team (UCT) 2’s Construction Dive Detachment Bravo (CDDB) completed maintenance and light demolition to clear a deep-draft wharf in Diego Garcia, reopening the wharf for use to the fleet in December 2016.

Petty Officer 2nd Class A.J. Quiroga, right, assigned to Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 2’s Construction Dive Detachment Bravo (CDDB), performs a front step water entry in Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, Nov. 10, 2016.

The wharf had become fouled with a large concrete fender panel that had deteriorated and fallen to the bottom, blocking all traffic adjacent to the pier. To reopen the wharf, CDDB removed two 57-ton concrete fenders, as well as four 20ton support piles alongside. In doing so, the team quickly and cost effectively reestablish one-third of Diego Garcia’s ship-to-shore capacity, ensuring maximum operational capability for this location. The four concrete piles were encased by a jacket of 3/8” mild steel and rose 50 feet out of the sea floor. The first two piles were removed using exothermic torches burning the steel at 10,000°F and hydraulic jackhammers to finish breaking apart the concrete contained within. The piles were then rigged with slings and pulled out of the water and placed onto cargo trucks by a crane. “I wasn’t really sure what to expect when it came to my first deployment with the team,” said Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Lucas Jackson. “We’ve used pretty much every piece of equipment I learned about in dive school along with demolition.” The second set of piles brought an entirely different challenge to the dive team. Because they stood vertically in the water column, it was not possible to safely cut them with divers in the water. CDDB selected the safest course of action and used precision demolition to break them up. The demolition required an explosion strong enough to cut through 18 inches of steel and concrete, but not damage the wharf and surrounding marine life. After hours of planning and conducting test shots on land, the team was able to fabricate a shape charge that could cut through the pile with the least amount of explosive required.

Divers then placed tires around the charge to absorb the shock wave and employed a bubble screen to reduce the noise levels on marine life in the surrounding area. “It’s been a while since the team was actually able to plan and execute an underwater demolition mission like this,” said Builder 1st Class Christopher Chilton. “These types of jobs are few and far between, but when the team is able to exercise this capability, we try to expose everyone to as much of the process as possible for a deeper understanding for future operations.” “I’m extremely proud of the guys here,” said Chief Construction Electrician Daniel Luberto. “I couldn’t ask for a more hard-working, determined, and focused group. They not only showed the capabilities of a UCT Diving Detachment, but also showed how they can exercise these capabilities anywhere on the globe. For that, I cannot express how proud I am about what these guys accomplished while they were out here.” Diego Garcia was the last stop in CDDB’s six month deployment across the Pacific. The detachment stopped previously in Kauai and Kwajalein to perform maintenance, inspection, and repair of underwater and near-shore facilities. Underwater Construction Teams provide a capability for construction, inspection, repair, and maintenance of ocean facilities in support of Navy and Marine Corps operations including the repair of battle damage. The teams have the capability to support a Fleet Marine Force amphibious assault, subsequent combat service support ashore, self-defense for their camp and facilities under construction, and conduct emergency/disaster control and recovery operations.

103-Year-Old

Seabee

Reflects on Service

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

DURHAM, N.C. -- As Seabees worldwide celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the fighting Seabees, March 5, the oldest living Seabee in North Carolina, at 103 years of age, recounted service to his country during World War II. While Seabees worldwide will commemorate the 75th anniversary this year which established a force of more than 325,000 builders who could fight during World War II, Jerry Smith was one of the Sailors who entered the U.S. Navy at the age of 29, March 15, 1942. At the time of his enlistment he didn’t know about a new rating called the Seabees; he simply signed up to serve his country like so many men his age would. Based on his experience helping to run a hardware store for the past decade, he was selected for this new community. “I was assigned to the 1st Naval Construction Battalion,” recalled Smith. “After serving in the unit for six months overseas we found out that we were Seabees.” Smith was also chosen to serve in the Seabees based on his familiarity with construction equipment and ability to build. 15

Smith jokingly added when he joined the Navy it was at

the behest of his employer, Liston L. Mallard, who owned the local

Elements of the 1st Naval Construction Battalion started

arriving on island, May 1942, and were quickly put to work.

hardware store. Mallard had served in World War I and wanted to again do his part for his country.

The U.S. Navy was responsible for constructing the base

on the island, the port, a 600-bed hospital, but also construct the

“I’m joining the Navy; would you like to come too?” Smith

crucial 6,000-foot runway and airfield, which was needed for the

recalled what Mallard had asked him 75 years ago.

Guadalcanal campaign, August 1942 through February 1943.

Smith ultimately ended up serving with Mallard while

While forces were actively building up Efete Island, Japa-

deployed overseas on Efete Island in the southwestern Pacific.

nese forces were fervently establishing bases on Guadalcanal which

threatened access to sea routes between the U.S. and Australia. The

The island, just five miles long from the east to west and 18

construction of the airfield at that time was crucial because the U.S.

miles wide, served as a significant defensive advantage for the U.S.

needed to get planes in the air to prevent Japanese forces from at-

and its Allied forces.

tacking Allied supply lines across the Pacific.

After the war ended Smith returned to his same home-

town, to his same job, and worked again with his same employer.

“First thing we built was a bomber strip so we can start

bombing Guadalcanal,” recalled Smith.

Men like Smith and Mallard signed up simply because it was needed at the time.

With seven bulldozers, 10 trucks, and one crane, Seabees

stationed on Efete Island used the older equipment and got to work

Smith served as a storekeeper during his enlist-

ment -- one of 17 on island -- and when he joined the Navy there

fortifying and building up the base to create the first stronghold in the Pacific to fight against the Japanese.

was no delay in shipping qualified builders worldwide to help turn the tide in the U.S. and Allied favor.

Smith played a pivotal role on island, overseeing timber to

be used in all of the base construction.

“We were taken out of our civilian lives, placed in a 1,000-

man unit and shipped overseas,” said Smith, who recalled arriving

“I was the only one on the island except the man I worked

on Efete Island, the dominant island in the New Hebrides archi-

for who could count lumber,” recalled Smith. “I was automatically

pelago.

in charge of lumber -- more than 600,000 feet of the prettiest west

coast fir you ever saw.”

Smith also found himself helping his fellow Sailors in any

way he could.

During his nearly two-year deployment, he spent time

building docks, bridges, and roads in addition to his storekeeping

duties.

it with is what we found out,” said Smith.

The Guadalcanal campaign was seen as a significant

“You just did what you had to do, with what you had to do

Smith wasn’t your average storekeeper. He found ways to

strategic combined Allied victory in the Pacific theater because it

help with everything from building the 6,000-foot runway, rolling

marked the first major offensive by Allied forces against Japan.

up his sleeves to assist the medical staff when wounded service members starting arriving on island, to flying combat missions.

Coupled with the victory of the Battle of Midway, June

1942, both historical events helped to turn the tide in the Pacific

“When 67 wounded men arrived at the hospital,” recalled

against the Japanese in favor of the U.S. and Allied forces.

Smith, “we had no nurses and we were short of corpsmen. I would help with anything.”

Smith ultimately served his entire time in service on Efete

Island, March 1942 through September 1945. In today’s Navy

Smith also took care of the men he served with; whether

where families can stay connected with their loved ones instan-

by making coconut pies or fresh homemade biscuits, he did his

taneously while deployed, Smith didn’t have the opportunity to

part to help his fellow shipmate.

speak with his family for 19 months.

For the Seabees serving during World War II, having the

right amount of initiative and toughness both helped to save lives

“I had one of the welders make me a stove, 24 inches

wide, four feet high, that I used to make homemade biscuits,” recalled Smith, who also had a pig roast a time or two.

and equally served to pass the time. Smith recalled stories of using his “Seabee ingenuity” put to good use to both raise morale and

Smith, who today resides in Durham, North Carolina,

help to pass the time.

truly looks more like a 90-year-old than an active centurion. Smith enjoyed reflecting on his time in service and offered advice to the

When Smith got on island there was no radio, no form

generations of Sailors and Seabees serving today.

of entertainment or books to read, save for his Bible. He and his fellow Sailors saw their first movie on island roughly three months

“Do your best all the time,” said Smith, who truly did his

after their arrival.

best while serving his country as a Seabee.

N E C C OVERVIEW EOD Speaker Series Gets Underway with a Talk about TBI By By Lt. Patricia Kreuzberger, EOD Group One Public Affairs Officer

SAN

DIEGO - Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Group One kicked off the EOD Speaker Series, March 3, with Cmdr. Grant Kidd, Department Head of Neurology at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 1st Class Derek Souza, assigned to EOD Mobile Unit (EODMU) 1, climbs up a ladder during helicopter rope suspension training with EOD Training Evaluation Unit (EODTEU) 1 in San Diego Feb. 17.

Kidd spoke with the EOD audience about Traumatic Brain Injury: Care and Assessment and discussed the history of TBI, approaches to management, and options for continued care and resiliency. Kidd described the unique challenges of studying and researching TBI in the military community. “Most of the cases in the military with IED blast exposure, you cannot apply the sports related or concussion data to what you have been through because it is a different mechanism of injury,” said Kidd, who contrasted injuries in war zones with injuries seen on the football field. “[For football players] it is the constant repetitive trauma that leads to significant brain damage [not a single blast],” said Kidd. The talk was the first in a series of engagements as part of the framework of the EOD Leader Development Program that will be held throughout 2017. “The speaker series is one way we are developing our leaders in the U.S. Navy and is an extension of our Leadership Continuum to further the professional education of our forces,” said Lt. Cmdr. Brian Reitter, chief staff officer of EOD Group One, who added this training falls directly in line with the Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. John Richardson’s Navy Leader Development Framework released in January 2017.

Lt. Cmdr. Alex Campbell, executive officer of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit One appreciated the opportunity to broaden perspectives and learn from experts about TBI. “This inaugural EOD Speaker Series event presented an unprecedented opportunity for the Navy EOD force to broaden perspectives and exchange new ideas,” said Campbell. “Cmdr. Kidd’s discussion on traumatic brain injury hit close to home for many EOD combat veterans and understanding the science behind it goes a long way toward helping Sailors overcome some of those challenges.” The EOD Speaker Series will continue throughout the year and cover various topics aimed at developing versatile leaders in the U.S. Navy. U.S. Navy EOD is the world’s premier combat force for countering explosive hazards and conducting expeditionary diving and salvage.

The framework emphasized the need for Navy leaders to demonstrate a deliberate commitment to grow throughout their naval careers. “To prepare ourselves to lead the Navy today requires a dedicated and coherent approach that starts on day one and continues throughout our careers-we all must create opportunities to become better leaders and to make our teams stronger,” according to the Navy Leader Development Framework.

N E C C OVERVIEW

NECC-Pacific Forces Participates in Read Across America in San Diego From Coastal Riverine Group One Public Affairs

SAN

DIEGO - Sailors from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Pacific (NECCPacific) commands participated in Read Across America event at Juarez Lincoln Elementary School in San Diego, March 2. Sailors from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Pacific (NECC-Pacific) commands participated in Read Across America event at Juarez Lincoln Elementary School in San Diego, March 2.

Read Across America is an annual reading motivational and awareness program hosted by the National Education Association that calls for every child in every community to celebrate reading on March 2, the birthday of children’s author Dr. Seuss.The goal of Read Across America is to motivate children to become lifelong readers.

said Prange. “The kids’ faces lit up when service members chatted and played with them on the playground, and shared Dr. Seuss stories with them. We are so grateful to our Navy partners for the mentorship and friendship they offer. Throughout the day, I heard students asking, ‘will you be here tomorrow?’”

The 15 Sailors that participated were from Coastal Riverine Group One (CRG 1), Explosive Ordnance CRG 1 had a ceremony that officially kicked off Disposal Mobile Unit One (EODMU 1) and Explosive their partnership with Juarez Lincoln Elementary School Ordnance Disposal Group One (EODGRU One). on Feb. 8. While visiting with students at Juarez Lincoln Elementary School, the Sailors read to every classroom at in order to celebrate Read Across America and joined the students for recess. Religious Program Specialist 1st Class Lonzie Medina, from The District of Columbia, organized and volunteered at the event. “I really enjoy reading to the children at Juarez Lincoln Elementary School,” said Medina. “Today was especially fun because it was Dr. Seuss’s birthday and many of the books that we read, we were able to relate to real life experiences that the kids would possibly face. It is always an honor to go into the school as a part of our Partnership in Education.” Dr. Beverley Prange, the associate principal of Juarez Lincoln Elementary School emphasized the impact the Sailors had on the elementary school to encourage them to become lifelong readers. “Our students were so thrilled to have their Navy partners visit today for our Read Across America event,”

Throughout the year Sailors from CRG 1 and Juarez Lincoln Elementary School will continue their partnership to include programs that encourage Navy volunteers to make a difference in the school by strengthening education, and promoting anti-drug and healthy lifestyles.

HONORING OUR past

Brave Men of Dong Xoai In honor of the 75th anniversary of the Seabees, here is “the story of

a small group of U.S. fighting men at Dong Xoai, Vietnam. During a short period, when they were attacked by the Viet Cong, they fought a heroic battle against great odds. Dong Xoai was a small encampment in the jungle, consisting of about 14 buildings, approximately 50 miles north of the capital city of Saigon. Here a tiny force made up of Vietnamese soldiers, plus U.S. Army Special Forces personnel and Navy Seabees, were posted on the night of 9 June 1965. The Americans numbered less than 20 men, about equally divided between USSF and Seabee personnel. With them were an Army medical technician and a Navy hospital corpsman. Two of them received the Medal of Honor, an Army 2nd Lieut., Charles Q. Williams and a Seabee, Marvin G. Shields, CM3. Dozens of additional awards went to the men at Dong Xoia, many of them posthumously. They included seven Silver Stars, eight Bronze Stars, a score of Purple Heart Medals and the Army Combat Infantryman Badge. The entire Seabee Team 1104 was awarded the Navy Unit Commendation for its action. In the morning of (10 Jun 1965), I asked for a volunteer to assist me in manning a 3.5“ rocket launcher to neutralize the machine gun position to our immediate south. Petty Officer Shields immediately volunteered even though he had previously been wounded in the neck, face, and back. He accompanied me on this mission with three rounds of 3.5” rocket ammunition. We had to move across an open area for approximately 100 meters under intense hostile fire. Upon arriving at our firing position, he acted as leader and we succeeded in Reprint of a portion of an article that appeared in the destroying the machine gun position. Even though he had never functioned in this capacity before, he did an outstanding job. February 1967 issue of All Hands Magazine.

Special Report: Brave Men of Dong Xoai

Our return route was generally the same. Upon reaching a Visit All Hands Magazine Archives to read the entire point approximately midway between our firing position and our article: initial position, we came under machine gun fire. Shields was hit in

http://www.navy.mil/ah_online/archpdf/ah196702.pdf

the leg and again seriously wounded. I managed to get him out of the line of fire and later evacuated to our strong point.

Archive issues of All Hands Magazine are available for viewing.

I consider this man a credit to himself, to the country, and to the military service.

http://www.navy.mil/ah_online/department_arch.html

Statement by 2nd Lt. Charles Q. Williams, USA on the heroic actions of CM3 Marvin Shields.”

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