1. www.cnic.navy.mil/gulfport
Vol. 52 No. 28 Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, Mississippi December 6, 2012
~Annual Tree
Lighting Friday~
MWR Tree Lighting &
Holiday Gift Village
Dec. 7, 6 - 8:30 p.m.
Youth Activities Center
Featuring a snow playground, children’s games,
free prizes, vendors, warm cookies & milk and a
very special visitor! Call 228-871-4010 for details.
Don’t miss the fun!
NMCB 27 - Global Peacekeepers
Naval Construction Training Center (NCTC) Sailor of the Year, Builder 1st Class (SCW)
James Pace speaks with students during a Builder “A” school class on board NCTC. Pace
has been assigned to the schoolhouse since October 2010, and is the assistant Builder
“A’ school course manager and instructor supervisor. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)
Pace named NCTC Sailor of the Year
By Chief Engineering Aide facet and has made a tremen- Going above what is expected
Peter S. Sydow dous positive impact on NCTC may be a factor, as well as striv-
NCTC Public Affairs Gulfport's command climate and ing to improve professionally
Naval Construction Training Cen- our mission to train and develop and personally through educa-
ter (NCTC) Gulfport selected Seabees. He is an exemplary tion, physical fitness, and com-
Builder Petty Officer 1st Class as representative of the command munity involvement.”
Sailor of the Year (SOY) for fis- and the cadre of professionals Pace gives his students this
cal year 2012. on our staff,” said NCTC Com- advice to help them succeed in
“It is a distinct honor and privi- manding Officer, Cmdr. Scott An- the Navy, “Don't just do the
lege to be named NCTC Sailor of derson. minimum required, push further
the year, and a deeply humbling When asked what he believes and achieve to the best of your COBAN, Guatemala - Seabees from Naval Mobile Con-
experience. Considering all the set him apart from the other ability. Learn from those who struction Battalion (NMCB) 27 and peacekeepers at the
great petty officers at NCTC, I nominees Pace stated, “I don't lead you, and do your best to CREOMPAZ military base pour a concrete pad as part of a
am very proud of this achieve- think any one thing sets me stay one step ahead. Don't wait renovation project in support of U.S. Southern Command's
ment," said award recipient apart from the rest, as each has to be asked for tasks or assign- Global Peacekeeping Operations Initiative. The Seabees
Pace, who is an Assistant their own unique qualities they ments. Be proactive and stay from NMCB 27 are forward deployed throughout South and
Builder “A” School Course Man- bring to the table. Dedication engaged, hungry to attain the Central America in support of U.S. Naval Forces Southern
ager and Instructor Supervisor. and an honest effort put forth in next level of leadership. Learn Command and U.S. 4th Fleet peacekeeping, multinational
"Petty Officer Pace has demon- every assigned duty and task is partnership, and humanitarian assistance missions. (U.S.
strated his leadership in every to be expected from all at NCTC. See NCTC page 2 Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Keith Ferreira/Released)

2. Don’t be a regretful holiday host
From Navy Personnel * Always have taxi phone
Command Public Affairs numbers handy.
Navy families need to ensure * Make sure you know who the
they're planning for the after- designated drivers are ahead of
party when considering plans for time, make sure the designated
their holiday get-togethers ac- drivers have the keys and en-
cording to Navy officials. sure the designated drivers are
With the holiday season here, parked where they are not
Navy leaders want holiday party blocked by other cars.
hosts to make plans for guests "If you plan activities like party
to get home safely afterwards. games, door prize drawings or a
From Dec. 24, 2011 to Jan. 2, gift exchange you'll engage your ble host, you should stay within
2012 there were 33 driving guests," said Favorite "They'll be your limits in order to make sure
while intoxicated incidents in- less likely to drink too much and your guests stay within theirs.
volving Sailors. they'll remember the great time Close the bar 90 minutes before
"Depending on the laws of they had. You should also pro- the party ends and serve a great
your state, if you host a party vide plenty of food to keep your dessert treat with coffee. Re- SECRET SANTA EVENT
and serve alcohol, you could po- guests from drinking on an member, only time sobers some- DEC. 8, 10 A.M. - 1 P.M.
tentially be legally liable if an in- empty stomach. Offer non-alco- one who has been drinking.
toxicated party guest drives holic beverages or mocktails for "If, despite your efforts, some NMCRS-GULFPORT THRIFT SHOP, BUILDING 29
away and gets in an accident," designated drivers and others of your guests have had too Bring the kids out and let them do their shopping with our volunteer
said Dorice Favorite, director, who prefer not to drink alcohol." much to drink - take control," Elves! Children ages 4 and older are invited to participate. This event is
Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse During the party make sure said Favorite. "Drive them open to all with regular base access. Call 228-871-2070 for details.
Prevention Office (NADAP). the designated drivers don't home, arrange for a ride with
"There are some steps you can drink and be aware of who gets another guest who is sober, call From NCTC page 1 Gulfport. The project consisted
take before, during, and after too drunk to drive. If someone a taxi, or insist they stay over. A of over 800 volunteer hours of
your party to keep everyone has had too much to drink make party should be a good time and from mistakes, don't be discour- total combined support.
safe." sure they have a safe ride not something you regret host- aged, and keep a positive atti- Pace checked onboard NCTC in
* Prepare an overnight guest, home. Don't let anyone leave ing." tude!” Oct 2010 after completing Jour-
or two - guest room; air mat- without your knowledge. For more tips on being respon- As Vice President of the E5/E6 neyman Instructor Training
tresses and sleeping bags, any- As the host, have fun - but not sible hosts visit NADAP at Association, Pace was responsi- (JIT). In his role as Builder “A”
one? too much fun. To be a responsi- www.nadap.navy.mil. ble for coordination of all School Instructor Supervisor he
fundraising efforts for the E5/E6 managed 42 instructors who
Association, which earned ap- trained over 1,200 Tri-service
LADD . . . Leaders Against Drunk Driving proximately $1,000. These funds students, while maintaining 100
were used to assist those in percent qualification of instruc-
LADD is a program sponsored by the ~ Volunteers who stand the watch are on call need in the local community as tors and updating curriculum.
December 6, 2012
NCBC/20th First Class Association. The mis- 24/7. well as family members of local For more information on the
sion of LADD is to prevent drunk driving on It is always important to have a plan in place Seabees. He also led Charlie Center for Seabees and Facilities
board NCBC Gulfport by providing rides for any when going out in town, but if your plans fall Company’s Community Service Engineering (CSFE) Learning
service member who needs assistance getting through, please call LADD and we will pick you project where he planned, de- Site Naval Construction Training
home after an outing that involves alcohol. up! 100 percent confidential, zero reprisal. Center, Miss., visit the site:
signed and executed the con-
~ It is strictly confidential. NO REPRISAL!
~ Will take individual home only, no stops. Call 228-239-9007 struction of a pavilion at
Harrison Central High School in
https://www.netc.navy.mil/cen-
ters/csfe/gulfport/.
NCBC/20SRG 25 NCR MC1(AW) Jonathan Carmichael
Commanding Officer Commander NMCB SEVENTY FOUR
Capt. Rick Burgess Capt. Darius Banaji Commanding Officer
Public Affairs Officer Public Affairs Officer Cmdr. David McAlister
MCC (SW/AW) Scott Boyle The Seabee Courier is a weekly author- chaser, user or patron. If a violation or
Rob Mims Public Affairs Officer
Seabee Courier
ized on-line publication for members of rejection of this equal opportunity pol-
Editor Lt.j.g. John Parizek the military services and their families. icy by an advertiser is confirmed, the
NMCB ONE
Bonnie L. McGerr Mass Comm. Specialist Content does not necessarily reflect the publisher shall refuse to print advertis-
Commanding Officer
Mass Comm. Specialist Cmdr. Chad M. Brooks MC2 Ryan Williams official views of the U.S. Government, ing from that source until the violation
MCC (SCW/SW/AW) the DoD or the U.S. Navy and does not is corrected. The Seabee Courier solic-
Public Affairs Officer
imply endorsement thereof. The ap- its news contributions from military and
Ryan G. Wilber Lt. Brian Gates NMCB ONE THIRTY THREE
pearance of advertising in this newspa- civilian sources, but the Public Affairs
Special Contributors Mass Comm. Specialist Commanding Officer per, including inserts or supplements, staff reserves the right to edit and/or
CM3 (SCW) Katchen Tofil MC1 (AW/NAC) Aron Taylor Cmdr. Nicolas D. Yamodis does not constitute endorsement by rewrite material selected for publication
CECN Lucinda Moise Special Contributor Public Affairs Officer the U. S. Government, DoD, the Navy to conform with journalism standards.
CE1(SCW) Joshua Thonnissen MC1(SW/AW) Steven Myers or NCBC Gulfport of the products and The deadline for material is close of
22 NCR services advertised. All content in this business every Friday. Your comments
NMCB ELEVEN newspaper shall be made available for are always welcome. The Seabee
Commander NCTC GULFPORT purchase, use or patronage without re- Courier office is in Building 1, Room
Commanding Officer
Capt. Darius Banaji Commanding Officer gard to race, color, religion, gender, na- 205. The mailing address is 4902 Mar-
Cmdr. Maria Aguayo
Public Affairs Officer Public Affairs Officer Cmdr. Scott Anderson tional origin, age, marital status, vin Shields Blvd., Code 15, Gulfport, MS
Vacant Lt.j.g. Brian Myers Public Affairs Officer physical handicap, political affiliation or 39501. Phone: 228-871-3662., E-mail:
2 Lt. J. Johnson any other non-merit factor of the pur- seabeecourier@navy.mil
Mass Comm. Specialist

3. Buzz on
the Street
By CECN Lucinda Moise
Around
NCBC Public Affairs
How do you feel about
the constantly fluctuat- the
ing weather?
Center
Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) and 20th Seabee
Readiness Group (SRG) held a frocking ceremony at the
Training Hall for Sailors selected for advancement from the
Sept. exam, Nov. 29. Frocking authorizes a Sailor to wear the
insignia of the paygrade of which they have been selected,
“It doesn’t impact me and carries with it additional duties and responsibilities,
much, I’m from here so but does not include pay and allowances. (U.S. Navy photos by
I’m used to it.”
Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ryan G. Wilber/Released)
Alex Carter
Navy College
Hometown: Gulfport, Miss.
Information Systems Technician 1st Class Kelli Rogers, left and Con-
struction Electrician 1st Class Nerissia Lowers, assigned to 20th Seabee
Readiness Group (SRG), sort toys for the Operation Homefront Toy Col-
lection Drive sponsored by Balfour Beatty Communities on board
December 6, 2012
Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC). Balfour Beatty will con-
tinue its tradition of hosting toy giveaways this holiday season with
toys collected from local Dollar Trees as a result of the generosity of
“As long as it’s not snowing I’m their customers. Bring the kids to the NCBC Fire Department Dec. 10,
happy.”
9:30 - 10:30 a.m. or 3 - 5 p.m. to see Sparky and to get a bag of good-
Kim Guillemette ies!(Photo courtesy of Balfour Beatty Communities/Released)
Navy College
Hometown: Douglas, Mass.
Seabee Courier
Personnel assigned to the Colmer Dining Facility on board Naval
Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) prepare food for the
lunchtime meal Nov. 30. The Colmer Dining Facility is open for
breakfast Monday - Friday , 5:45-7:45 a.m., lunch, 11 a.m.-12:30
“It’s frustrating.” p.m., and dinner, 4:30-6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, break-
fast, 6:30-8 a.m., lunch, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., and dinner, 4-5:30
BUCN (SCW) Juan Vazquezl p.m. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Ryan G.
NMCB 11
Wilber/Released)
Hometown: Abilene, Texas
3

4. MWR to host annual tree
lighting Friday night
By CECN Lucinda L. Moise
NCBC Public Affairs
Morale, Welfare and Recreation
(MWR) will host their annual
Christmas Tree Lighting at the
Youth Center on board Naval Con-
struction Battalion Center (NCBC)
Gulfport from 6 - 8:30 p.m.,
Dec. 7. All MWR departments from
Maintenance to the Liberty Center
are joining together to host the
The water run off samples above show how important veg-
event.
etation is for soil. You can see in the first sample on the left,
According to MWR Marketing
the "filtering" effect that vegetation has on water. The two
and Publicity Coordinator, Maranda
remaining samples are clouded with sediment. (Photo cour-
Johns, the Christmas Tree Lighting
tesy of CBC Environmental/Released)
is held each year three weeks be-
fore Christmas to bring everyone
together to celebrate the holidays.
“The MWR hosts this event every
year to provide a traditional light-
Our water, our
ing of the tree ceremony for
NCBC, and to bring people out to
enjoy the holiday atmosphere,”
A youngster gives a snowman a thorough inspection at last year’s
tree lighting. This year’s tree lighting includes an added feature
of a Holiday Gift Village. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)
responsibility “The best deterrent to filter-
said Johns. By NAVFAC Southeast
There will be food, children’s stuffed animals, jewelry and spa International for anyone inter- Public Affairs ing all of the pollutants is
games, prize giveaways and a products, as well as handmade ested in making a donation in Water is fluid and follows a through vegetation,” said Po-
special appearance from Santa items. someone’s name as a gift,” said path whether predetermine by jeky.
Claus. This year’s event will also “We enlisted the help of these Grace Sheets, MWR information humans or created by nature Although the earth has this
include a Holiday Gift Village with various vendors for those who are technology team manager. and runs clean or dirty based natural deterrent to pollutants
outside vendors selling potential looking for that perfect gift. This For more information, contact on the path it follows. it is still important for every-
holiday gifts, such as custom year we have also invited Heifer Maranda Johns at 228-871-4010. “Water is used for so many one to assist in the fight
things,” said Douglas Pojeky, against erosion and pollution.
December 6, 2012
Public Works Department Gulf- With all of the construction
Marine Toys for Tots - Staff Sgt. Air Force Base PX and on board port Stormwater Program Man- and constant shifting of the
Marvin Perez-Diaz, of I&I, 3rd Platoon, A com- NCBC at the Navy Exchange and
ager. “We use it to wash landscape that everyone does
pany, 4th AABN on board NCBC is coordinating the Navy Federal Credit Union.
dishes, cars, floors, driveways, on a daily basis, at home and
the area’s annual Toys for Tots campaign. Donations are being accepted
etc. We choose to use it for on base, it is crucial to the en-
Your contribution of new, unwrapped toys or a through Dec. 22. To make a
monetary donation, or for more its fluidity and power.” vironment that everyone make
monetary donation would be greatly appreci- Water over time created one an effort to do their part.
ated. Drop off boxes are located throughout information on Toys for Tots,
visit http://gulfport-ms.toysfortots.org. of the nation’s most beautiful “We must continue to clean
Harrison, Hancock and Stone Counties, Keesler natural national parks, the up our own living space and
Grand Canyon. not pollute,” said Pojeky. “The
“Water is the one element water that hits the ground
Balfour Beatty hosts that if controlled will find a
way to continue its path. This
could eventually make it back
into our bodies. Whether it be
‘Pancakes with Santa’ is why it is important to man- from the fish we eat or the
Seabee Courier
age where and how we use it,” water we drink we are all re-
explained Pojeky. sponsible for our Earth. We
Dec. 15, 8 -10 a.m. Water, whether it travels only get one.”
through a garden hoses or it Questions pertaining to
at McDonald's comes down from the sky can proper water conservation can
run many different channels be made directly to the NCBC
on board NCBC and may carry numerous pol-
lutants as it runs its path.
Stormwater Program Manager
at 228-871-3118.
Santa arrives at 9 a.m. . . . Follow Seabee Center on
Facebook and Twitter . . .
4

5. Website assists those
seeking to hire vets
By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyronne C. Marshall Jr.
American Forces Press Service
The Labor Department, in concert with two other federal agencies, has
provided a tool to guide potential employers seeking to hire disabled
veterans, a Labor Department official said, Dec. 3.
John K. Moran, deputy assistant secretary of labor for veterans’ em-
ployment and training service, said the “America’s Heroes at Work”
website provides resources to organizations looking to hire veterans
with or without disabilities.
“What it does for the employer is it gives them some information
about -- and demystifies, quite frankly -- a lot of the issues around the
disabilities that many veterans might have – particularly, traumatic brain
Seabees attached to Naval injury [and] post-traumatic stress disorder,” he said. “It advises and
Mobile Construction Bat- helps an employer understand what those issues are, what they’re not,
talion (NMCB) 1 perform and how they can effectively recruit and hire veterans who may have
drilling operations in Chal- those issues into their workforce without any particular problems.”
lalumsa, Ethiopia. The This website guides employers to understand the disabilities and po-
completion of this water tential accommodations that may be necessary, and how they can be
well ensures that the peo- made, he added.
ple of Challalumsa will no “In fact, [it] points out that many of the accommodations that might
longer have to travel 20 need to be made can be made very, very simply and easily,” Moran said.
miles for water. NMCB 1 is “So it’s really a guide for the employer how to hire the veteran who has
currently deployed to the these issues.”
Europe and Africa (AOR) in The website originally launched in 2008 and was down recently for a
support of construction op- short period as the three agencies involved -- the Labor, Defense and
erations and African Part- the Veterans Affairs departments -- considered who should manage the
nership Stations. (U.S. Navy website.
photo by Lt. Jeff "SF" Fu- “We went through a few discussions this past summer,” Moran said,
sick/Released) “which resulted in a decision that since we, the Department of Labor,
are the employment arm, if you will, for the federal government, it
NMCB 1 drills for liquid gold in Ethiopia rightfully should stay where we are.”
Moran also noted contracting issues and “a couple of technical
glitches” also caused the website to go down for a short period, but as
By EOC (SCW) Tremayne (SCW) Tremayne Nicholson, assis- three eight-hour shifts. Each shift
Nicholson tant officer-in-charge and Equip- has a “Tower Leader,” “Derek of Nov. 26, the website has been back online and fully accessible.
December 6, 2012
NMCB 1 Public Affairs ment Operator 1st Class (SCW) Hand,” “Worm” and a “Mechanic.” Moran said Labor Department officials believe the toolkits for employers
William Wilson, lead driller. The Tower Leader is in charge of that the website provides have factored into declining veteran unem-
Challalumsa, Ethiopia is a very
ployment.
small village that you won’t find “During the assessment we met his shift and is the one that will
“One of the indicators that we look at, that we believe lends itself to
off the side of a main road, near a with the village elder to discuss control the drill rig. His second in
the fact that this website is working well for the employers, is that vet-
river, stream or even on a map. the placement of the well, how charge and right hand is the
eran unemployment continues to go down,” he said. “So there are many
This village is a treasure hidden in many people the well will serve, Derek. The Worm collects cutting
factors behind that, but one of the factors is, we believe, that employers
the desert near the town of Dire the effect it will have on the vil- samples and keeps the drilling
are using this toolkit [and] they’re learning from it,” Moran said.
Dawa, and home to nearly 500 lage and job site safety,” said Gib- mud program correct, and the “They’re more willing and able, then, to bring on the veterans, which is
Somali Ethiopians. son. Mechanic keeps everything work- probably why we’re seeing the decline in the veteran unemployment
Life in Challalumsa is quiet and After the road leading to the well ing properly. rate.”
simple, and most work consists of site was prepped, work on the The water well required a 250- Moran noted that nonveterans also experience PTSD and other brain in-
herding camels, goats and don- well started Nov. 25. foot depth to have an effective juries, but that doesn’t preclude them from being effective contributors
keys. Equipment Operator 2nd Class ground water flow that produces to the workforce.
Seabee Courier
People travel up to 20 miles (SCW) Corey Hileman worked to enough water for the village. In addition to giving employers toolkits and information about veteran
daily for fresh water, and for that flatten some areas and dig out It took the team four days and disabilities, Moran said, the website also emphasizes the advantages of
reason it is a perfect place to others, so that the T2W Water nights to reach this depth, over- hiring veterans, whether they have these disabilities or not.
send a group of Navy Seabees to Well Rig and Tender would be coming a clogged mud pump, air Officials are updating all of the information so there is one “holistic
drill a well. able to reach the site. Once on- in the hydraulic lines and cold, place for an employer to go,” Moran said.
The Seabees of Naval Mobile site, set up began with two 20- wet nights. “They’ll simply come to the DOL website,” said he added, and “they’ll
Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1 foot Container Express (CONEX) For the village of Challalumsa, access this information, and they’ll learn about everything there is for
began their mission to bring boxes being dropped off, a 750 Ethiopia, the placement and com- the value of hiring a veteran, period.”
water to the people of Chal- cubic feet per minute (CFM) air pletion of this well means no Whether a veteran has a disability won’t be germane at that point, he
lalumsa Nov. 21. compressor and well drilling ma- more 20 mile hikes just to get said. “If they want to drill down further into ‘Now, what do I need to
A pre-assessment was done by terials. water; the gold so needed to know about the veteran who has disabilities?’ then they can further ac-
Lt. j.g. Michael Gibson, officer-in- A water well operation is a 24 keep the village thriving and hid- cess this information,” he said. “So we are kind of putting it all in one
5 charge, Chief Equipment Operator hour-a-day mission broken into den from the rest of world. place.”

6. A common goal: Independent NMCB 133 conducts Airfield
operations, future prosperity prior ANA battalions and U.S
Damage Repair Exercise
By MC1 Steven Myers
NMCB 133 Public Affairs military mentors,” said Hollis.
CAMP KRUTKE, Afghanistan – “As the initial conversation pro-
Under the sun in Afghanistan’s gressed, each interpreter
southern provinces, through the chimed to share their experi-
desert, flood plains and moun- ences, expectations, and signifi-
tains, into the bustling metropol- cant do’s and don’ts.”
itan area of the capital, Kabul, The interpreters were subject
coalition forces continue to de- matter experts in various fields,
velop, mentor and train mem- said Hollis, so they matched
bers of the Afghan National their expertise with each team
Army (ANA), security forces and struction Mechanic 2nd Class member. The next step was to
police. Timothy Woznick, attached to develop a course of instruction
Beginning in October, 11 mem- the 1st Brigade 215th Corps Ad- for each specialty and Hollis said
bers of Naval Mobile Construc- visor Team at FOB Dwyer, as- he had to really give it some
tion Battalion (NMCB) 133, Task sisted in the instruction of 22 thought.
Force Anchor, embedded with ANA students in a 30-day gener- “I had no idea whether or not
coalition partners at four for- ator operator and maintenance their administrative personnel
ward operating bases (FOBs) course. had any experience,” he said. “I
across Helmand and Kabul Along with daily lectures, the didn’t want my course of in- U.S. Sailors assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Bat-
Province to train, coach and ad- Seabees conducted hands on struction to overwhelm them.” talion (NMCB) 133, lay sand grid to create a compactable
vise ANA engineering units in training with the ANA Soldiers. Ultimately, after several meet- surface above a simulated crater during an airfield dam-
contingency construction opera- “I was a little apprehensive ings with the garrison person- age repair exercise. NMCB 133 is deployed to the U.S.
tions. about coming here and teaching nel, Hollis had the information 5th Fleet area of responsibility to support engineering
Embedded with U.S. Marines of the ANA Soldiers,” said Woznick. he needed to fine tune the operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Construction Electrician 2nd
a Security Force Advisor Assis- “But once we started and met course. Class Richard Rickert/Released)
tance Team and the engineers with these guys it became really “I gave them advice on how to
of the ANA 2nd Brigade 215th fun. It was amazing to see their make their personnel status re-
Corps at FOB Nolay in northern progress in just a few weeks. I ports better and instructed them
Helmand Province, Builder 1st on the importance of timeli- Underwater Construction Team (UCT)
really can’t wait to teach them
Class Matthew Culberson works more classes.” ness,” said Hollis. “I began by ONE is searching for highly motivated
closely with the company com- “I don’t always know how to going out to watch them muster Seabees and CEC Officers looking for a
mander mentoring and giving respond when I hear ‘hey in the mornings. I also incorpo-
technical advice on planning and Seabee, great job today. You re- rated tools on how to evaluate career and lifestyle change.
December 6, 2012
execution. ally are working hard; we don’t personnel, document leave, the
Culberson said the ANA’s con- know what we would do without importance of positive and neg-
struction tasking came soon you guys.’” Woznick said. ative counseling, and accurately
after his arrival and as the engi- His normal response: “I’m just maintaining personnel records.
neers eagerly moved forward in doing my job.” Though they had doctrine that
the construction of a mosque, Not all the jobs in the engi- dictated these matters, I at-
an administrative building, and neering battalion consist of con- tempted to streamline and rein-
construction of a roof structure struction workers, however, and force what was already in
for the cistern on their camp, to the north, at Camp Black- place.”
the company commander fre- horse in Kabul Province, seven Hollis said he plans to pass the
quently requested his expertise other members of the team are course of instruction on to the
in devising a comprehensive mentoring the ANA’s 215th Engi- next administrative mentor so
plan. neering Battalion in more than they can continue to support the
Coupled with the knowledge just construction. ANA on their road to independ-
Seabee Courier
and skills attained during a con- Yeoman 2nd Class Narkedrian ent operations.
tingency construction course, Hollis, the NMCB 133 Engineer- Regardless of the location
within the country, Task Force Join an ELITE force and travel as a small,
Culberson said the company ing Development Team’s admin-
Anchor’s mentors continue to professional team. Execute specialized
proved to be resilient and re- istrative instructor, said there
sourceful. were a few challenges present renew the enduring partnership construction, diving and demolition skills with the
In southern Helmand Province, upon their arrival, but were between the coalition forces and latest and greatest technology and equipment.
two more members of the team, quickly overcome with the assis- the ANA toward one common
goal: the future prosperity of Contact UCT CCC/Diver recruiting team @ 757-462-3988
Construction Electrician 1st tance of interpreters.
Afghanistan. or 757-462-4313 or Email YNC Aberle at
Class Justin Urban and Con- “They all had dealings with
christopher.aberle1@navy.mil; SW1 Dohse at
ryan.dohse@navy.mil or visit
6
Tis the Season for Safety www.www.facebook.com/seabee.diver for
more information.

7. ‘First and Finest’ of
NMCB 1 enhance
partnerships in Africa
By NMCB 1 Public Affairs allow Djiboutian military personnel
Dikhil, Djibouti -- Naval Mobile to learn basic construction prac-
Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1 is tices and quality control measures.
leading the way in building and The skills acquired will be of great
sustaining relationships with East value and benefit to the Djiboutian
African partner nation military lead- military as they learn the various
ership, and local community lead- construction trades. Their contribu-
ers in their Area of Operations tions will also allow them to take
(AO). ownership of the projects being
Detail Kontali Officer-in-Charge constructed in their AO.
(OIC) Lt j.g. Alexsandra Reed and During the visit, Omar was ex-
Assistant OIC Chief Steelworker cited about having his troops par-
(SCW) Chris Sterner took time to ticipate in the construction of the
coordinate meetings with key offi- Kontali Clinic.
cials in the Dikhil region to discuss “This will be a great opportunity
opportunities for engagements with for my personnel to learn the con-
Djiboutian military, local civilians struction trade and maybe apply it
and U.S. Seabees. to our future construction needs …
These engagements will be fo- and we can teach the Seabees the Lt. j.g. Alexsandra Reed and Chief Steelworker (SCW) Chris Sterner meet with Dikhil Mil-
cused on allowing Local Nationals ‘Djiboutian way’ to do stucco,” said itary Base Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Idriss Omar to discuss future plans for collabo-
to participate in the construction of Omar. rating on the construction of a medical clinic in a nearby village. NMCB 1 is currently
a medical clinic compound located Later that afternoon, the Detail deployed to the Europe and Africa (AOR) in support of construction operations and
in the Village of Kontali. leadership conducted another African Partnership Stations. (U.S. Navy photo by NMCB 1 Public Affairs/Released)
The Detail OIC, AOIC and Detail meeting with the Dikhil Region Pre-
Interpreter had a morning meeting fect, Mohamed Cheiko Hassan. The Dikhil Prefect was equally ex- independent economic growth The actions by the Seabees will
with the Dikhil military base Com- During the meeting there was cited about the students in the region. not only enhance the current U.S.
manding/Operations Officer, Lt. discussion of the utilization of adult learning the construction trade “This opportunity will allow the relationship with the East African
Col. Idriss Omar, which focused on students from the local vocational from Seabees, and how it will allow students to learn and apply their military, but allow for new bridges
the future military-to-military con- technical school located within the the students to acquire the skill newly gained knowledge to future of friendship and coordinated ef-
struction engagements that will city. necessary to support jobs,” said Hassan. forts to be built in the future.
Seabee who assisted Sandy victims remembers
December 6, 2012
when others came to rescue of Gulf Coast
By MC1 (AW) Jonathan power,” said Montag. At the time, While clearing debris, putting up their homes to get stuff because
Carmichael Montag was assigned to NMCB 7, tents, and dewatering, Montag it was too dangerous,” said Mon-
NMCB 11 Public Affairs also in Gulfport. He spent two was relating with the residents tag. “That really upset the home-
When Construction Electrician 1st weeks cleaning up the Gulf Coast whom he was assisting. owners and store owners, and I
Class Eric R. Montag detached in the immediate aftermath, but “I talked to several residents feel bad for them.”
with his Seabee shipmates as- he and the other Gulf Coast and city councilmen about my ex- Montag and his NMCB 11 ship-
signed to Naval Mobile Construc- Seabees weren’t alone. perience with Hurricane Katrina mates provided assistance in
tion Battalion (NMCB) 11 from “The entire NCF (Naval Con- and how we overcame things some of the hardest hit areas of
their homeport in Gulfport, to struction Force) was helping out. over time,” said Montag. “I think New Jersey and New York for
Seabee Courier
provide disaster response assis- There was CBMU (Construction being able to relate to them roughly two weeks.
tance to the people of Hurricane Battalion maintenance Unit) 202, based on our similar experiences While most of the NMCB 11
Sandy affected areas in New Jer- the National Guard, West Coast helped give them a sense of hope Seabees who traveled to the
sey and New York in early No- Battalions, Spec War; It seemed that they would come out alright.” northeast United States to aid in
vember, he had a pretty good like everyone from everywhere The stress and anguish felt by disaster response of Hurricane
idea of the fears and emotions was helping us out,” explained his community following Hurri- Sandy are simply too new to the
that those people were dealing Montag. cane Katrina is something that Navy to have been a part of the
with. When Montag received the call Montag remembers all too well. response to Hurricane Katrina,
Montag, a native of Klamath that he would be needed to pro- CE1(SCW) Eric Montag This shared experience of loss there are many still serving who
Falls, Ore., was living on the Gulf vide assistance in the northeast, gave Montag a personal interest were part of the post-Katrina re-
Coast of Mississippi when Hurri- he felt like he was returning a that went,” said Montag, “so I in the communities he was assist- sponse.
cane Katrina plowed through in favor. had an opportunity to help some- ing in the northeast. History has proven that Seabees
2005. “Once we got the word I was one else out after going through “The hardest part was telling are eager and ready to come to
“I spent six weeks with no hoping I’d be one of the ones a bad storm myself.” them that they couldn’t go into the aid of those in need. 7

8. ‘The Meat & Potatoes of Life’
By Lisa Smith Molinari, Military Spouse Contributer
aged mom. morning of the concert, my later, we began to yawn and
Never lose your cool Although fully entrenched in
denial, I sometimes get the
husband and I figured we’d
better do our research. With
complain about the noise. Fi-
nally, in the last hour of the
doesn’t make sense ecologi- feeling that, much like my the assistance of our teenage concert, we just wanted to go
cally.” mother before me, I have no daughter, we played snippets of home, take our fiber tablets,
My brother and I were mortal idea what’s cool anymore. I re- Switchfoot’s songs on iTunes. and go to bed.
enemies, but he grinned at me luctantly allow my kids to con- “Hey, I’ve heard this one be- No matter how obvious it is
to share our mutual opinion trol the radio on our way to fore!” I said, and my husband that we’re not cool anymore,
that Mom was totally uncool. school, and am forced to listen and I gyrated to the beat while we middle-aged parents never
She was notorious for embar- to the repertoire of new rock our kids rolled their eyes. want to face reality.
rassing us by botching lyrics alternative and pop tunes that “Oooo, this one’s actually pretty “Sounds like a xylophone.
and doing cheesy “mom only serve to keep me from good,” my husband exclaimed What’s the name of this band,
dances” to our favorite songs. hearing the news and weather. upon hearing another familiar Honey?” I asked my teenage
My brother and I shriveled in As cool as I think I am, I’m just song. “’Yea, hmmm, uhuh, da, daughter last week while driv-
humiliation when Mom pointed realizing who Foo Fighters and da -- HEY, we are the Dark ing our minivan to school.
My brother grabbed the her thumbs alternately into the Train are. It’ll take me another Horses!!’” he belted at the top “Gotye,” she answered with a
chrome knob of our Buick’s air to the beat, or did the five years before I can wrap my of his lungs. slight eye roll.
radio and cranked it up, hoping Mashed Potato to Rod Stewart’s mind around Mumford & Sons, Later at the concert, my hus- Sheesh. Kids these days just
Mom wouldn’t complain. From “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy” or KC & Fun and Young the Giant. band and I were ready to prove don’t know good music. Why
the back seat, I could hear the The Sunshine Band’s “Shake, Recently, our kids wanted to that we hadn’t lost our cool. would anyone name a band
grinding voice of Ted Nugent Shake, Shake Your Booty.” go to a base concert featuring Pairing middle-aged dance ‘Goiter’ anyway? I thought to
and see my brother’s elbow She must’ve been born un- a band named Switchfoot. All moves with inaccurate lyrics, myself, secure in the knowl-
jerk to the rhythm of his air cool, we thought, and were our friends were going, so de- we appeared to be having a edge that I’d always be cool.
guitar. thankful that we would never spite the fact that we couldn’t blast. An hour later, my hus- Get more wit and observa-
“I just don’t get it,” Mom suffer the same fate. identify the music off the top of band asked me to search my tions from Lisa at her blog,
piped up over the screeching But then, life played its cruel our heads, we jumped on the purse for ibuprophen for a pain http://themeatandpotatoesof-
sounds, “Why on Earth would a joke, and I became a middle- bandwagon like groupies. The in his lower back. Another hour life.com.
‘cat scratch a beaver?’ That just
See Something Wrong,
Seabee Memorial Chapel Sandy Relief Do Something Right!
December 6, 2012
NCIS has two new anonymous ways to
report crimes or suspicious behavior with
the use of discreet and secure online or
texting tip lines.
To report information by Cell text:
1. Text “NCIS” to the short code 274637
(CRIMES) from any cell or smart phone.
Religious Program Specialist Sea- 2. Receive a response, for example: “Your
man Jamie Hamm, assigned to the alias is: S2U5 Call 911 if urgent! If replies
Naval Construction Battalion Cen-
put you at risk, text “STOP”
ter (NCBC) Seabee Memorial
3. Begin dialogue
Chapel is pictured with the health
and comfort items donated by To report information Online:
Seabee Courier
NCBC military and civilian per- 1. Go to www.NCIS.navy.mil, click on the
sonnel and their families. Chapel “Report a Crime” tab and select the icon for
personnel coordinated the base “text and Web tip Hotline.”
relief effort before turning the There is a reward of up to $1,000 for infor-
goods over to points of contact at mation leading to a felony arrest or ap-
the Shed BBQ as part of “Opera-
prehension.
tion BBQ Relief,” who traveled to
the East Coast in late October.
(U.S. Navy photo courtesy of NCBC
Chapel/Released)
8

9. Focus on Education
DeCA 2013 Scholarships FFSC December
Right place, right time
Classes
In 2012, the Scholarships for Military Children Program celebrated a
major milestone as it reached more than $10 million in scholarships The Fleet and Family Sup-
awarded to 6,742 students from around the globe.
It’s time, once again, to add to these impressive numbers, as applications port Center (FFSC) invites
for the 2013 Scholarships for Military Children Program will be available you to check out their De-
starting Dec. 3 at commissaries worldwide. You can also find them online
through a link at http://www.commissaries.com and directly at cember class schedule at:
http://www.militaryscholar.org.
Scholarship awards will be based on funds available, but the scholarship http://www.slideshare.net/S
program awards at least $1,500 at each commissary. If there are no eligi- eabeeCenterGulfport/ffsc-
ble applicants from a particular commissary, the funds designated for that
commissary will be awarded as an additional scholarship at another store. classes-december-2012.
To apply for a scholarship, the student must be a dependent, unmarried
Please call FFSC at 228-871-
child, younger than 21 — or 23, if enrolled as a full-time student at a col-
lege or university — of a service member on active duty, reservist, guards- 3000 to pre-register.
man, retiree or survivor of a military member who died while on active
duty or survivor of a retiree. Eligibility is determined using the Defense En-
rollment Eligibility Reporting System database. Chief Utilitiesman (SCW) James Penney welcomes the
Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled
in the DEERS database and have a current military ID card. The applicant NCBC School Liaison students and teachers from Quarles Elementary School
of the Long Beach School District. Approximately 225
must also be planning to attend or already attending an accredited college students were rewarded with a movie, soda and popcorn
or university, full time, in the fall of 2013 or be enrolled in a program of Officer, Kevin Byrd is for perfect attendance. NCTC partnered with Quarles El-
studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program. Applicants ementary School as part of the Navy Partner In Education
must submit an essay on a topic chosen by the Fisher House. The essay
topic will be available Dec. 3 on http://www.militaryscholar.org. Applica- located at MWR (PIE) program. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of NCTC/Released)
tions must be turned in to a commissary by Feb. 22.
Building 352, 1706
Civilian federal employees
Five Star Service Bainbridge Ave.
Are you thinking about retire- course offerings can be found
ment? The only CSRS and at: Https://www.cnic.navy-
NCBC, 228-871-2117 FERS retirement planning .mil/gulfport/OperationsAnd-
courses being offered at NCBC Management/HumanResource
December 6, 2012
Gulfport during Fiscal Year 13 s-Office/ServiceCenterTrain-
or email: will be offered in February ing/index.htm or
and are limited to 25 students http://www.donhr.navy.mil/
kevin.r.byrd@navy.mil each. and click on HR office - south-
Information on all civilian east to find a course.
Navy-Marine Corps Relief
Society Scholarships:
From Navy-Marine Corps or in a retired status. terest-free loans totaling more
Seabee Courier
Relief Society Gulfport Consideration for selection is than $60 million to more than
Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport MWR Applications for Navy-Marine based on scholastic ability and fi- 50,000 students over the last 30
ITT Manager, Grace Sheets, and Navy Gateway Inns and Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) ed- nancial need. Applicants must be years. It is based on the Society's
Suites Front Desk Supervisor, Fanny Crispell present NCBC Fit-
ucational scholarships and inter- graduating high school seniors or mission "to provide financial, edu-
ness Center Life Guard Charlie Smith with his Star Service cer-
est-free loans for the 2013 - 2014 full-time (minimum 12 credit cational and other assistance."
tification. Instructors Crispell and Sheets conducted a Star
academic year are now available hours) college students working The program is supported entirely
Service course Nov. 27- 28 in which 10 different MWR em-
ployees from various programs like Navy Outdoor Recre- and can be downloaded at toward their first undergraduate by donations and bequests to
ation, Liberty and Human Resources learned effective www.nmcrs.org/education. degree. Applications must be re- NMCRS.
customer service techniques and practices. The course de- Students eligible to apply include ceived at NMCRS by May 1, unless For more information on the
tailed the importance of earning the trust of the customer and spouses or children (under the the due date on the application NMCRS Education Program,
consistently providing positive, helpful service. (Photo cour- age of 23) of Sailors and Marines states otherwise. please visit www.nmcrs.org/edu-
tesy of MWR/Released) who: are on active duty, are re- The NMCRS Education Program cation or email
tired or who died on active duty has provided scholarships and in- education@nmcrs.org. 9

10. Special Event be held 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. in
Light up the season with MWR at the Fitness Center gymnasium.
our annual Tree Lighting and Holi-
day Gift Village event, Friday from Recreation
6 – 8:30 p.m. at the Youth Activities Movie Theater: FREE every week-
Center. There will be a snow play end. Grab some popcorn and sit
area and lots of fun games for the back and enjoy the movie!
children, along with cookies and Friday, “Bourne Legacy,” PG13,
milk. Adults can shop for gifts at the 6 p.m.
Holiday Gift Village which includes Saturday, Movies cancelled due
new vendors this year. And of to training
course, Santa will be waiting to hear Sunday, “The Possession,” PG13,
what is on everyone’s wish list. Call 6 p.m.
228-871-4010 for more details.
Information, Tickets and $52.25/ticket! The first week of Audubon Zoo for only $10, Sunday, 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Enjoy Sunday
Travel: sales will be open to Active Duty 9 a.m. football with friends.
Fitness only. During the second week of Fight the cold weather by getting
Sign up for the Monthly Dodgeball Looking for a great holiday event
for the family? Look no further, ITT sales tickets will be available for Navy Outdoor Recreation: a hot breakfast from the Grill. The
Challenge at the CBC Fitness Center.
is taking you and your family to purchase to all eligible MWR patrons Do you have holiday parties sched- Grill is located at the corner of
There is no charge and the event
Mickey’s Music Festival in Mobile (Active Duty, Reservists, Depend- uled this season? Outdoor Recre- Colby and 7th Street and has
will be held Friday. All eligible com-
Dec. 15 for only $25! Departing ents, Retirees and DOD employees) ation offers all kind of equipment for everything from French Toast plates
mands are welcome. Call today for
from the ITT parking lot at 11 a.m., with proper ID. Limit two (2) tickets gatherings from grills and cookers to to breakfast burritos or traditional
details, 228-822-2668.
and returning approximately 7 p.m. per Military ID card. Parking passes children’s bounce houses at very af- eggs and bacon.
Do you like tennis or is badminton
Space is limited- sign up today! are $40 for parking inside of the Su- fordable prices. Anchors & Eagles: Open Tuesday-
more your style? Sign up for
(Children ages 6 and under must be perdome Parking Garage and will be Calling all fishermen! Navy Out- Thursday 2 - 9 p.m.
Lunchtime Intramural Pickleball.
in a passenger restraint device, not available on a first come first serve door Recreation presents the Fishing
Pickleball is a racquet sport which
basis. (No refunds or exchanges. All Rodeo at Seabee Lake, Dec. 22. To Youth Activities
December 6, 2012
combines elements of badminton, provided by MWR.)
The last Saints game of the season ticket prices are subject to change sign up or for more details, call Take a trip to the Louisiana Chil-
tennis, and table tennis. Head to the
Saints vs. Panthers will go on sale without warning. ITT is not respon- ODR. dren’s Museum with YAC this Satur-
CBC Fitness Center and sign up. The
on Dec. 17 at 9a.m. for just sible for lost, stolen or laundered FREE Batting Cage: No more to- day from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The trip is
league starts Feb. 6 and games will
tickets and will not replace them. kens needed. Stop by and take a limited to 30 so sign up now for only
Resale is prohibited. swing! Rent bats and helmets at no $6. Bring a lunch and any money for
Active Duty, Reservist, National charge from Outdoor Recreation cool things from the museum store.
Guard, USCG and Retirees are now during business hours. Don’t get bored after school. Do
eligible for a complimentary Univer- something cool at the Youth Activi-
sal 3 Day Park-to-Park ticket and Food & Beverage ties After-School Program and
Blue Man Group Ticket at children’s Starting this Sunday, the Beehive Power Hour, Monday - Friday, 2 –
price! All dependents and DOD per- will be open. New hours are from 5:30 p.m. Call YAC for details.
sonnel are eligible for discounted
Universal 2 Day, with 3rd Day Free For more information about MWR pro-
pro-
Seabee Courier
tickets! Call ITT for info.! grams and opportunities, contact:
We have Nutcracker tickets avail- Anchors & Eagles 228-871-4607
able for the performances on Friday, Auto Hobby 228-871-2804
Dec. 21 for just $15/ ticket! Call Beehive 228-871-4009
Child Development Center 228-871-2323
ITT for more information. Fitness Center 228-871-2668
Information, Tickets & 228-871-2231
Liberty Center: Travel
Head to the Liberty Center for Liberty Center 228-871-4684
FREE food while you enjoy the Seabee Heritage Center 228-871-3619
Navy Outdoor Recreation 228-871-2127
Parents enjoy a turkey dinner with their children at lunch as part 113th Annual Army vs. Navy Foot- RV Park 228-871-5435
of the Child Development Center's Thanksgiving celebration. The ball Game, Saturday, 2 p.m. The Grill 228-871-2494
CDC works hard to maintain strong parent participation in their Find the inner animal in you! Join Training Hall 228-871-4750
programs. (Photo courtesy of MWR/Released) the Liberty center on a trip to the Youth Activities Center 228-871-2251 10