Historical Milestones in Naval Construction
On October 7, 1970, Construction Battalion Unit (CBU) 201 left Davisville, Rhode Island, embarking on a mission to Antarctica. This deployment highlighted the Navy’s commitment to broadening its operational reach in challenging environments.
Deployment of NMCB 7
On October 8, 1969, the main body of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 7 (NMCB 7) departed from Davisville, Rhode Island, heading to Chu Lai, Republic of Vietnam (RVN). This marked a significant chapter in the battalion’s history as they prepared to support military operations abroad.
Arrival of NMCB 7 in Vietnam
In 1969, NMCB 7’s main contingent, comprising 14 officers and 538 enlisted personnel, reached Camp Shields in Chu Lai, RVN. Their arrival underscored the strategic role of Seabees in providing vital construction and engineering support to U.S. forces during the Vietnam War.
Commissioning of the 31st NCB
On October 9, 1942, the 31st Naval Construction Battalion (NCB) was officially commissioned at the Naval Construction Training Center (NCTC) Camp Endicott in Davisville, Rhode Island. This formation contributed to the expanding capabilities of the Naval Construction Force during World War II.
NMCB 58 Arrives at Camp Endicott
In 1969, the main body of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 58 arrived at NCTC Camp Endicott after their deployment in Chu Lai, RVN. Their return signified the ongoing cycle of deployment and support that characterized the Seabees’ operations during this tumultuous period.
Commissioning of the 30th NCB
On October 10, 1942, the 30th NCB was commissioned at Camp Bradford in Norfolk, Virginia. This addition further strengthened the naval construction capabilities essential for military logistics and infrastructure development.
Formation of the 125th NCB
In 1943, the 125th NCB was established at NCTC Camp Endicott, reflecting the Navy’s ongoing need for skilled construction battalions as World War II escalated.
Inactivation of the 81st NCB
In 1945, the 81st NCB was deactivated in Guam, marking the end of its operational tenure. Additionally, the 9th Special NCB was also inactivated at the Russells during the same timeframe.
Return of Seabee Team 0518
In 1971, Seabee Team 0518 returned to the Continental United States (CONUS) after successfully completing their deployment in Soc Trang, RVN. Their return was a testament to the dedication and service of the Seabees in various operations.
NMCB 8 Returns Home
In 1968, the main body of NMCB 8 returned to CONUS via commercial and military aircraft after finishing their assignment at Camp Wilkinson in Phu Bai, RVN. This return marked a significant transition for the battalion as they completed their mission.
Leadership Transition in NMCB 7 and 58
In 1969, Commander J.C. Rickels, CEC, USN, took command of NMCB 7, relieving Commander D.J. Mathews, CEC, USN, who had been leading NMCB 58 at Camp Shields, Chu Lai, RVN. This leadership change was part of the dynamic operational environment in Vietnam.
NMCB 121 Takes Over from NMCB 8
On October 11, 1968, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 121 assumed responsibility from NMCB 8 at Camp Wilkinson. This transition was part of the ongoing rotation of forces aimed at maintaining support and construction capabilities in the region.
Return of Seabee Team 4003
In 1970, Seabee Team 4003 returned from Truk Lagoon and was reassigned to NMCB 40. Their return was part of the regular cycle of deployment and reassignment within the Naval Construction Force.
Formation of the 132nd NCB
On October 12, 1943, the 132nd Naval Construction Battalion was established at the Naval Construction Training Center (NCTC) Camp Peary in Magruder, Virginia, adding to the Navy’s engineering capabilities during World War II.
Establishment of Underwater Facility Construction Capability
In 1970, the Chief of Naval Operations authorized the creation of an underwater facility construction capability within the Naval Construction Force. This initiative aimed to enhance engineering and construction efforts for underwater facilities, leading to the unofficial designation of UCT 1 and UCT 2.
First Seabee Killed in Action
On October 13, 1942, Chief Machinist Mate Henry L. Thompson of the 6th NCB became the first Seabee to lose his life in action during a Japanese naval bombardment at Henderson Field on Guadalcanal. Thompson and five others were trapped in a dugout when a shell struck, resulting in his tragic death. Two fellow Seabees, Shipfitter 1st Class H.L. Osborn and Shipfitter 1st Class D.L. Gillis, received the Silver Star for their courageous efforts in rescuing the surviving men from the debris.
Leadership Change in NMCB 5
In 1966, Commander E.J. Williams, Jr., CEC, USN, took over command of Camp Adenir in Da Nang, RVN, as the commanding officer of NMCB 5. This change marked a new chapter for the battalion and its operations in the region.
Deployment of CBU 201 to Antarctica
In 1969, the main body of Construction Battalion Unit 201 deployed from Davisville, Rhode Island, for an assignment under the Commander, Antarctic Support Activities, further showcasing the versatility of the Seabees in extreme environments.
Training of Seabee Teams 4005 and 4006
In 1969, Seabee Teams 4005 and 4006 were designated as alert teams and assigned to the 21st Naval Construction Regiment (NCR). They underwent 11 weeks of specialized training to enhance their operational readiness in support of naval construction efforts.
Dedication of NMCB 17 Drill Site
In 1974, the reserve battalion Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 17 dedicated its permanent drill site at the Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Port Hueneme, California. This site was named in honor of Construction Mechanic 2nd Class James W. Lynch and Builder 2nd Class William A. Fulton, both of whom passed away from natural causes while serving in NMCB 17.
