Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West released the following Seabee birthday message to the fleet March 2.
“Shipmates,
Since March 5, 1942, the Navy has been recruiting Sailors for their construction battalions; strong, proud, hardworking Seabees with tremendous skill and plenty of experience. For 70 years, many unsung heroes of the Navy have been the men and women of the Naval Construction Force. We celebrate their official birthday today, but a week doesn’t pass that I’m not reminded of the sacrifices made by this amazing community.
On the 70th birthday of the Navy Seabee, we remember Builder Chief Raymond Border, who gave his life for our nation’s freedom on Oct. 19, 2011.
We pause to consider the actions of Seabees like Utilitiesman 3rd Class Crystal McDougal of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4, who was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries she sustained after her MRAP was hit by an IED. After the accident, her commanding officer and command master chief went to check on her in the hospital, and McDougal’s only question concerned the welfare of her team.
As MCPON, I’ve had the opportunity to visit Bees all over the world, living up to your motto every day, whether in combat, humanitarian relief missions or helping to build communities or nations. I’ve seen first-hand the Forward Operating Bases and Combat Outposts you’ve constructed from the ground up. Most often times the Seabees are the first on the scene in the most dangerous of places … and that’s just fine with them.
Almost everywhere I go, whether I see an actual Seabee or not, I can tell they’ve been there. I’ve heard countless stories about Bees going above and beyond for the Navy, their fellow service member, communities, and for complete strangers from far off lands. None of it surprises me. Bees are now as they have always been, committed to the greater good of our Navy and our Nation.
Today’s Seabees are living up to the standard set at places like Normandy and Guadalcanal. They’re fighting where it’s toughest and helping those in need. Seabees are taking the American ideals of compassion and spirit where they’re needed the most and are leaving lasting memories behind. The world is finding out that our Navy’s hands of friendship have a global reach.
As always, the Seabees “Can Do!” spirit will drive them through any challenges our Navy faces, and they will continue to be a prime source for the most battle-tested expeditionary Engineering Forces.
Happy 70th Birthday and OOOORAH Bees!
Very Respectfully, MCPON (Honorary Seabee)”
[mappress] Naval Today Staff , March 05, 2012; Image: navy