Seabee Courier Jan. 4, 2013

www.cnic.navy.mil/gulfport

Vol. 53 No. 01 Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport, Mississippi January 4, 2013

Families, friends Two NMCB 133 Seabees earn
dodge rain drops to ‘Badge of Merit’ in Afghanistan
greet NMCB 74 ‘Bees By UT3 Drew Verbis
NMCB 133 Public Affairs
A formation of Seabees stood
at attention as two members
from Naval Mobile Construc-
tion Battalion 133, Task Force
Anchor, received Purple Hearts
during an award ceremony
Dec 13.
Standing proudly in front of
the stars and stripes, Builder
Third Class Daniel Blount and
Equipment Operator Third
Class Steven Thelusma re-
ceived the award from Brig.
Gen. David L. Weeks, com-
manding general of the 411th CAMP KRUTKE, Afghanistan – Builder 3rd Class Daniel Blount
Engineer Brigade, Joint Task and Equipment Operator 3rd Class Steven Thelusma of Naval
Force Empire. Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133, Task Force An-
Both recipients suffered in- chor, receive the Purple Heart for wounds sustained during a
juries when their convoy was mission in the Helmand Province. NMCB 133 is deployed to
struck with an improvised ex- Afghanistan in support of coalition forces with engineering sup-
plosive device while conduct- port. (U.S. Navy photo by Utilitiesman 3rd Class Drew Verbis/Released)
ing missions outside of the
wire. “Afterward the Skipper tele- “But I do think that training
Blount, a native of Macon, phoned my wife,” added played an important role in the
Ga., who is serving his second Blount. “He let her know that I way we responded and pushed
deployment to Afghanistan, was going to make it through through a dangerous situa-
experienced the attack while this. That’s really when it all tion.”
his MRAP was traveling at low sunk in.” The two Seabees are ex-
speed through rough terrain. Thelusma, a native of Roslin- pected to recover and com-
Family and friends welcomed home more than 120 “It’s difficult to explain but it dale, Mass., who is also serv- plete their deployment in
Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Bat- felt like a long blink,” Blount ing his second deployment to Afghanistan.
talion (NMCB) 74, Advanced Party, Detail Guam, at the said. “The explosion knocked Afghanistan, was operating an “This is such a prestigious
Training Hall on board NCBC Gulfport as they re- the gunner out of his turret armored tractor trailer when award,” said Blount. “So few
turned from deployment, Jan. 3. NMCB 74 has been and right onto me. I literally his vehicle was struck. have it and I feel humbled. I
operating forward deployed throughout the U.S. Pa- caught him. My first reaction “All I can say is that I sin- don’t take this for granted.”
cific Command (PACOM) area of operations, sup- was to check on his condition cerely feel honored to receive Once called the ‘Badge of
porting Navy and Joint forces. For more return photos, and then immediately attend this award. There’s nothing we Merit,’ the Purple Heart is the
visit NCBC Facebook. (U.S. Navy photo by Construction to my shipmates. I think we’re could have done to prevent military’s oldest award dating
Electrician Constructionman Lucinda L. Moise/Released) fortunate.” (the attack),” said Thelusma. back to George Washington.

Navy Legal Updated List of Area
Off-Limit Locations
Your rights under USERRA
By Lt.j.g. Brian T. Henning,
The following establishments have been declared “Off Lim-
its” to all Armed Forces personnel by the Armed Forces Dis-
ciplinary Control Board as of Sept. 10, 2012.
the military does not exceed employee’s military service or
JAGC five years; the employee’s application to
RLSO SE Mayport ~ The service member reserve in the military. Biloxi: Gulfport, continued
The Uniformed Services Em- turns to work or applies for Health Insurance Protec- YaYa’s Sinsations Night
ployment and Reemployment reemployment in a timely tion
Rights Act (USERRA) is a fed- manner after their military Under USERRA, service mem-
2751 Pass Road Club
eral law that protects the job service has ended; and bers and their dependants can 1809 30th Ave.
rights service members who ~ The service member has continue their employer-based Gulfport:
have voluntarily or involuntar- not been separated from serv- health plan coverage while
ily left their civilian jobs to ice with a disqualifying dis- serving in the military. The Herbal Alternatives Nick’s Place
serve in the military. charge or under other than maximum period of coverage 1909 East Pass Road 12460 Highway 49
USERRA protections are easi- honorable conditions. is the lesser of:
est to understand when bro- If all of these requirements ~ 24 months from the date
ken into three categories: have been met, employers on which the service member’s Herbal Alternatives Pascagoula:
~ Reemployment Rights must restore service members absence begins; or 11530 Highway 49 Bunksmall Apart-
~ The right to be free from to the position (both job posi- ~ The day after the date on
discrimination tion and benefits) that they which the service member fails ments
~ Health Insurance Protec- would have been in if they had to apply for or return to a po- BJ’s Bar (Club 228) 708 South
tion. not left their civilian job to per- sition of employment.
Reemployment Rights form their military service. If you believe your rights
17920 16th Street Pascagoula St.
Under USERRA, service mem- Right to be Free from Dis- have been violated or if you
bers have the right to be crimination and Retaliation have any other questions,
reemployed in their civilian job Under USERRA, those who please contact your local legal Service members are ordered not to enter or patronize these
if they leave that job to per- have served or will serve in assistance office. off-limit establishments of their locations. This does not apply
form military service, so long the military cannot be denied This article is not intended to to Armed Forces police on duty or others on official business.
as: certain rights by their civilian substitute for the personal ad- Violations of this order are punishable under Article 92, Uni-
~ The employer receives ad- employer. These rights include vice of a licensed attorney. For form Code of Military Justice.
vance notice of the service initial employment, reemploy- legal assistance, contact the
member’s service; ment, retention in employ- Naval Construction Battalion
~ The total length of all ab- ment, promotion, or any Center (NCBC) legal office by
sences from civilian employ- benefit of employment by an calling 228-871-2620 to make
January 4, 2013

ment by reason of service in employer on the basis of the an appointment.
Follow NCBC on
Fraud, Waste and Abuse Hotline Information Due to limited IG resources throughout
the Southeast Region, all Fraud, Waste and Abuse hotline work will now be handled by the Region.
To report Fraud, Waste and Abuse, contact the Region at: Toll Free 1-877-657-9851 Comm: 904-
Facebook and Twitter
542-4979 DSN 942-4979 FAX: 904- 542-5587, Email: CNRSE_HOTLINE@navy.mil.

NCBC/20SRG 25 NCR NMCB SEVENTY FOUR
Commanding Officer Commander Commanding Officer
Capt. Rick Burgess Capt. Darius Banaji Cmdr. David McAlister
Public Affairs Officer Public Affairs Officer Public Affairs Officer
MCC (SW/AW) Scott Boyle The Seabee Courier is a weekly author- chaser, user or patron. If a violation or
Rob Mims Lt.j.g. John Parizek
Seabee Courier

ized on-line publication for members of rejection of this equal opportunity pol-
Editor Mass Comm. Specialist the military services and their families. icy by an advertiser is confirmed, the
NMCB ONE
Bonnie L. McGerr MC2 Ryan Williams Content does not necessarily reflect the publisher shall refuse to print advertis-
Commanding Officer
Mass Comm. Specialist Cmdr. Chad M. Brooks official views of the U.S. Government, ing from that source until the violation
MCC (SCW/SW/AW) NMCB ONE THIRTY THREE 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 Commanding Officer
pearance of advertising in this newspa- civilian sources, but the Public Affairs
Special Contributors Mass Comm. Specialist Cmdr. Nicolas D. Yamodis per, including inserts or supplements, staff reserves the right to edit and/or
CM3 (SCW) Katchen Tofil MC1 (AW/NAC) Aron Taylor Public Affairs Officer does not constitute endorsement by rewrite material selected for publication
CECN Lucinda Moise Special Contributor MC1(SW/AW) Steven Myers the U. S. Government, DoD, the Navy to conform with journalism standards.
CE1(SCW) Joshua Thonnissen or NCBC Gulfport of the products and The deadline for material is close of
22 NCR NCTC GULFPORT 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 Commanding Officer Commanding Officer purchase, use or patronage without re- Courier office is in Building 1, Room
Capt. Darius Banaji Cmdr. Maria Aguayo Cmdr. Scott Anderson gard to race, color, religion, gender, na- 205. The mailing address is 4902 Mar-
Public Affairs Officer
Public Affairs Officer Lt.j.g. Brian Myers Public Affairs Officer tional origin, age, marital status, vin Shields Blvd., Code 15, Gulfport, MS
Vacant Mass Comm. Specialist Lt. J. Johnson physical handicap, political affiliation or 39501. Phone: 228-871-3662., E-mail:
2 MC1(AW) Jonathan Carmichael any other non-merit factor of the pur- seabeecourier@navy.mil

Buzz on Around
the Street
By CECN Lucinda Moise
NCBC Public Affairs
the
“What is your New
Year’s resolution”
Center

Children from the NCBC Child Development Center (CDC)
sang Christmas Carols at the building 1 Quarterdeck in
celebration of the holiday season on board NCBC, Dec. 20.
The four-year-olds sang Jingle Bells, We Wish You A Merry
Christmas and Silent Night. The kids also sang carols at the
Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) and Fleet and Fam-
ily Center (FFSC). The CDC plans to make the caroling an
“To be in school by fall.” annual tradition and hopes to visit more facilities in the fu-
ture. (U. S. Navy photo by Construction Electrician Construction-
EOCN(SCW) Michael Kohut man Lucinda L. Moise/Released)
20th SRG
Hometown: Elkalmae, Pa.
January 4, 2013

Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 74,
“To spend as much time [as Detail Gulfport, post signs for their deployed shipmates along the
possible] with my family be- road on board NCBC Gulfport Dec. 27. NMCB 74 is currently operat-
fore I deploy again.” ing forward deployed throughout the U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM)
area of operations, supporting Navy and Joint forces. (U.S. Navy photo
CE3 Kristen Guardiola
by Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Katchen Tofil/Released)
NMCB 11
Hometown: Gulfport, Miss.
Seabee Courier

MWR employees distribute 2013 Sugar Bowl tickets to pleased NCBC
Gulfport personnel over the Christmas holiday. Tickets were dis-
tributed from the MWR Information, Tickets and Travel office to the
“To get through another Jan. 2 game between the Florida Gators and Louisville Cardinals in
deployment.” New Orleans. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of MWR/Released)
CM2(SCW) Daniel Welk
NMCB 15
Hometown: Farmington, Ark.
3

NCBC FREEZE FRAME
FRAMES
Utilitiesman 1st Class
(SCW/EXW/FMF)
Michael DeAngelo
Utilities Phase Head
20th SRG, R-73

By CM3 (SCW) Katchen Tofil
NCBC Public Affairs

FF: What single experience dur- around the world independ- your career? when not at work, and you’ll of that.
ing your career stands out the ently, as well as with small UT1: I would say that my be surprised how much it
most and why? teams of SEABEES accom- biggest motivation through- helps you at work. FF: Who was your most influen-
UT1: Serving with the SEALS plishing a great many tasks out my career has been my tial mentor during your career,
of Naval Special Warfare that I previously thought too desire to succeed at what- FF: What is your favorite thing and why?
Group 2, especially the de- difficult. It showed me just ever task is given to me. about being/working with UT1: My dad, Kevin DeAn-
ployment to Afghanistan how inventive and motivated Seabees, and why? gelo. Even though he has
with SEAL TEAM 4. The SEABEES can be! FF: What advice would you give UT1: History. All the things not been on active duty with
experience of that duty to future Seabees/Sailors? that the SEABEES have me, he has been and contin-
station gave me the confi- FF: What has been your UT1: Try to have construc- done and continue to do ues to be my best mentor not
dence to be able to work all biggest motivation throughout tive things you enjoy doing makes me proud to be a part only in my career but in life.

CDC Story Time combines learning with fun
By CM3(SCW) Katchen Tofil story time and fun activities is deployed.
NCBC Public Affairs with FOCUS each month, For story time in Decem-
January 4, 2013

Team members from Fami- these children are building ber, FOCUS chose a book
lies Overcoming Under their emotional vocabulary about a teddy bear that is
Stress (FOCUS) taught and developing positive much loved, but gets sepa-
FOCUS skills, read books coping strategies which are rated from the child who
and participated in crafts important aspects of re- loves him. As a special
with the children at the siliency for military families,” treat, FOCUS sought out the
Child Development Center said Elizabeth Ramsey, a USO to provide teddy bears
(CDC) on board Naval Con- FOCUS resiliency trainer. for each of the children par-
struction Battalion Center “The skills taught help the ticipating in story time,” said
(NCBC), Dec. 20. The Gulf- children to recognize and Ramsey.
port United Service Organi- role-play their feelings re- FOCUS and the USO both
zations (USO) joined FOCUS garding deployment. Many work to support military
Seabee Courier

for the event, donating of the skills are retained families in unique ways.
teddy bears that were and continued by the CDC Ramsey said that the
Eva Shinka, site director for Families Overcoming
passed out to the children staff also,” added CDC Di- FOCUS staff and USO will
Under Stress (FOCUS), reads the book “The Spirit of
during the event as Christ- rector Pamela Carlisle. continue to identify ways to
Christmas” to children at the Child Development Cen-
mas gifts. During the month of De- collaborate on projects to
ter (CDC) on board NCBC, Dec. 20. The FOCUS group
Once each month the cember, FOCUS asked the support military families in
reads to the children each month, and teaches the
FOCUS group visits CDC to USO to join the group for the future.
children FOCUS skills, which center on ways of deal-
teach the children a FOCUS story time. According to Carlisle,
ing with emotions. Teaming up with FOCUS this
skill centering on ways of “December is often a FOCUS’s involvement with
month was the Gulfport United Service Organiza-
dealing with emotions, to special time for many mili- the CDC not only helps the
tions (USO), who donated teddy bears that were
read a story and to partici- tary families, although children, but also helps the
passed out to the children during the event as Christ-
pate in an activity. holidays can be challeng-
mas gifts. (U.S. Navy photo by Construction Mechanic 3rd
See Story Time page 12
4 “By engaging children in Class Katchen Tofil/Released)
ing when a service member

Seabees brighten holidays for local 3 Ways to Put Yourself First
Self-Care in the New Year
families with ‘Can Do Christmas’ Jan. 23, Seabee Memorial Chapel

By CECN Lucina L. Moise 8 - 8:30 a.m., Welcome, Childcare drop off
NCBC Public Affairs 8:30 - 10 a.m., Self-Care Workshop
Seabees assigned to 20th 10 - 10:30 a.m., Refreshments & Resources
Seabee Readiness Group (SRG),
R-73, surprised two families with Free Workshop, Free Childcare, Free Refreshments
Christmas gifts and a special visit
from Santa Claus as part of the Open to all service members, military dependents
“Can Do Christmas,” Dec. 20.
and civilian employees
This is the 6th consecutive year
that the Can Do Christmas has
been able to make Christmas a Registration: Contact Eva Shinka or Bet Ramsey
more joyous time for less fortu- at FOCUS: 228-822-5736 or email:
nate families in the community. Gulfport@FOCUSProject.org
More than $1,200 was raised for
the charity through a baked goods Space may be limited for childcare, please register
silent auction, monetary donations in advance if possible.
and generous contributions from
ABC Pawn Shop of Long Beach,
Miss., which was used to provide Santa Claus and Seabees assigned to 20th Seabee Readi- Hosted by FOCUS,
gifts and a Christmas meal for ness Group (SRG), R-73, surprise a child with Christmas gifts NCBC Chapel & MWR
each family. as part of the 7th annual “Can Do Christmas,” Dec. 20.
The charity was initiated by More than $1,200 was raised for the charity through a
Chief Utilitiesman Dan Clowser, baked goods silent auction, monetary donations and gen-
currently assigned to Naval Mobile erous contributions from ABC Pawn Shop of Long Beach,
Construction Battalion (NMCB) 1, Miss, which was used to provide gifts and a Christmas meal
deployed to Rota, Spain, while as- for two less fortunate families in the community. (U.S. Navy
signed to NMCB 74, Detail Whid- photo by Construction Electrician Constructionman Lucinda L.
bey Island as a way to give back Moise/Released)
to the community in the Seabee
“Can Do” spirit. families. dren’s’ reactions of joy and excite-
In Clowser’s absence, Utilities- “It is such an awesome feeling ment. NCBC Security Reminder:
man 1st Class Michael Deangelo when you see the smiles on the Deangelo said he was happy to
and Utilitiesman 1st Class Chad children’s faces knowing you be part of the Can Do Christmas To prevent both personal and
January 4, 2013

Hert, both assigned to 20th SRG, helped give them a good Christ- team and hopes to see the tradi- governmental property theft,
R-73 took the lead, assisted by mas. Everyone deserves a good tion continue in the years to NCBC Security would like to
their R-73 shipmates, to continue Christmas,” said Deangelo. come.
the Can Do Christmas tradition. The children seemed to be “It was a great experience being remind you to remember to
Each family received Christmas shocked and thrilled when Santa part of the Can Do Christmas this secure vehicles, personal
gifts and a gift card. According to Claus made a stop at their house. year. I could tell it made a differ-
Deangelo one of the most reward- It was evident that the parents ence in the lives of the families, compartments, work spaces,
ing parts of the Can Do Christmas were delighted as well. They and I hope to see it continue in compounds, and buildings. Don’t be a target!
was delivering the gifts to the laughed and smiled at their chil- the future,” said Deangelo.

NCBC Are You Up for a Challenge? Announcing: ‘Can Do Weight Loss’ Race Engines, Dirt Bikes, ATV’s,
the NCBC/Keesler Weight Loss Contest Cigarette Boats, Zodiacs
Seabee Courier

NCBC has challenged Keesler Air Force Base to a ing include access to Are you up to the challenge of hard work and repairing
unique SOF equipment?
Weight Loss Challenge. The competition will kick a free training class
off Jan. 14 at the Fitness Center during an orien- during the lunch hour, Naval Special Warfare Development Group is seeking active
tation. This competition is open to all who have as well as nutritional duty Construction Mechanics and all other Seabee rates.
access to NCBC. Civilian employees interested in classes. Weigh-ins - Motivated/Volunteer
participating in the six week-long competition will be conducted - Pass Navy PFA
must have a doctor’s release of good health form weekly during the - E4 - E6
turned in to their supervisor. The release states challenge. The base that wins will have bragging - No NJP
that the participant is cleared to begin an exer- rights to a trophy that will be displayed at the - No bankruptcy
cise program. Official weigh-in for participants winner’s command suite. For more competition - Obtain Secret/TOP Secret clearance
will be conducted Jan. 7 - 11, 11 a.m. - 12:30 information, contact Dorothy Coleman, 228-871- Email us at !DEVGRURecruiting@vb.socom.mil or contact
p.m. at the Fitness Center. Benefits of participat- 4848 or dorothy.coleman@navy.mil. your detailer to request additional information.
5

Spotlight on Diversity:
NMCB 11 Seabee exhibits
strong devotion to duty
By MC1 Jonathan Carmichael
NMCB 11 Public Affairs
Construction Electrician 3rd
Class Olorunshola Olukera, as-
signed to Naval Mobile Con-
struction Battalion (NMCB) 11,
isn’t going home for the holi-
days this year. He continues
striving for personal and pro-
fessional excellence since an
October visit to see his family in
Nigeria, his first such visit in
over five years.
Originally from Lagos, Nigeria,
Olukera took three weeks of
leave in October and paid his
family a surprise visit.
“My dad barely recognized me CE3 (SCW) Olorunshola Olukera
when I walked in, and my mom whom he has deployed to
was crying,” said the soft spo- Guam and Afghanistan.
Equipment Operator Constructionman Jason Williams, assigned to Naval Construction Bat- ken 33-year-old. While deployed to Guam,
talion (NMCB) 1, instructs Spanish Marines on the proper operations of D7 Dozer. NMCB “I had to break my promise to Olukera took some college
1 is currently deployed to the Europe and Africa areas of responsibility (AOR) in support visit my family during our classes, and he has plans to
of construction operations and African Partnership Stations. (U.S. Navy photo by Construc- homeport in 2011. They were take more in the spring.
tion Electrician 1st Class Joshua Thonnissen/Released) able to understand that the cir- Olukera believes that “what-
cumstances were beyond my ever is worth doing is worth

NMCB 1 tests combat readiness control,” said Olukera. His de-
votion to duty took precedence
in 2011 as NMCB 11 was in
doing well,” and because of this
philosophy he has decided to
limit his enrollment in school so
during Rota deployment FEX
By CE1 (SCW) Joshua Students were taught multiple Spanish forces, when a small detail
heavy preparation for its 2012
deployment to Afghanistan.
Olukera came to the United
that he may focus on his Navy
career. With less than four
years of service, Olukera has
Thonnissen skills so that any member could of troops was sent out to conduct States in 2007 to continue his advanced to the rank of Petty
NMCB 1 Public Affairs step in to fill a gap and succeed in road improvement operations education. Officer 3rd Class in a very com-
Naval Mobile Construction Battal- the new role. alongside the local Spanish Marine “I always had this dream of petitive Seabee community. He
January 4, 2013

ion (NMCB) 1 is currently deployed Troops were not only taught Forces. continuing my education has also earned the Seabee
to 6th Fleet area of responsibility in “book knowledge,” but were also The team worked, ate and slept abroad,” stated Olukera who Combat Warfare Specialist qual-
support of construction operations given the opportunity to apply the next to the local forces, waking also considered moving to Lon- ification, his primary warfare
throughout Europe and Africa; lessons learned as they dug fight- each morning and heading out to don. “I weighed the options, qualification.
however, the Seabees have taken ing positions, conducted survey pa- the job site. The roads were in and I chose to come to the “This is the best job I’ve ever
time out from their normal mission trols, constructed antenna towers such bad shape that they were dif- United States. I’ve been loving had,” stated Olukera. “I don’t
to enhance the command’s combat and engaged in a host of other ficult to navigate with the average it so far.” want to be an average Sailor in
training and readiness during a training activities. car, so the team brought the roads Olukera completed a three the Navy. I want to be the best
Field Exercise (FEX) executed in “This training was a good re- down to grade, while leveling and year electronics program at the that I can be, and I also want
Rota, Spain. fresher for me. The gear has compacting them using a grader, head of his class at a Nigerian to continue being an “A” stu-
The exercise consisted of four changed so much since I was last roller and excavator. technical college then took the dent.”
days of instructor-led training, fol- in battalion, so it was great getting “We have been able to work opportunity to continue his ed- This desire for excellence and
lowed by two days of intense sce- tips on how to best set-up and uti- much faster than originally planned ucation in the U.S. with a move a strong faith in God guide
narios designed to push the troops lize the new equipment,” said Utili- . . . we have been able to complete to Bowie, Md. and an enroll- Olukera’s decisions.
Seabee Courier

physically and mentally to ingrain tiesman 1st Class Michael the mission tasking after only three ment at Capital College. “I don’t do things because of
the lessons into each person. Montalto. days on site,” said Chief Builder When a Navy recruiter told money. That’s not the pur-
Instructors took blocks of time A small camp was set up and 24- Eric Dirk, detail assistant officer-in- the student about the educa- pose. I only do things because
with each company using both hour operations were conducted charge. tion benefits available to I know it is right to do it and
slide shows and hands-on guid- on board Camp Mitchell. Seabees The completion of the exercise, Sailors, Olukera decided that an because I know I could use it
ance to teach the troops skills were put on high alert while they combined with the release of rate enlistment in the Navy would to help people.”
needed for a battalion’s deploy- patrolled forested terrain and stood advancement results gave the be the right move. Olukera earned his U.S. citizen-
ment to combat environments, and watches to prevent intruders from Seabees plenty of reasons to cele- “Thank God for the United ship in 2009, and, though his
discussed the operations that are infiltrating the camp, or handle any brate. States Navy because it has re- family doesn’t fully understand
conducted during those missions. scenario that took place. Each The battalion is scheduling more ally shaped my life,” exclaimed everything that the U.S. Navy is
Classes were designed to give in- member was given a role to play exercises with realistic training op- Olukera. all about, they know how much
sight into how the battalion and a job to do. portunities to ensure personnel are After completing Construction it means to him and support
processes work together prior to The battalion also seized the op- prepared for any events that may Electrician “A” school, Olukera
portunity to build relations with the arise in the future. took orders to NMCB11 with See Devotion page 12
6 and during a combat deployment.

Left: Students assigned to the Naval Construction Training Center (NCTC)
Navy Builder and Steelworker “A” School and 336th TRS Air Force “AIT”
School, begin a 15-mile journey to raise money for the family of Tyler and
Kately Myers of Long Beach, Miss. Above: NCTC Navy and Air Force stu-
dents continue their 15-mile Ruck March in honor of Tyler and Katelyn
Myers. The children are undergoing treatment in Augusta, Ga., for third
degree burns suffered in an accident at their home in November. (U.S. Navy
photos by Builder 2nd Class Whitney Taylor/Relased)

Ruckin’ for a cause: NCTC students in action
By BU2(SCW) Whitney from the 366th TRS Air Force through Bay St. Louis, Long the volunteers had a health Both children require multiple
Taylor “AIT” School and one staff Beach, and Gulfport to help and comfort rest opportunity. surgeries and will need to re-
NCTC Public Affairs member participated in a Ruck support the cause. Tyler Myers is a 7th grader at main in the hospital’s care for
At 6:30 a.m. Dec. 16, officers March from the Bay St. Louis The route was monitored and Long Beach Middle School and an extended period of time.
of the Long Beach Police De- Bridge to Jones Park at the the volunteers supplied with Katelyn Myers is a 3rd grader In order to help their par-
partment, students from the Gulfport Harbor to raise money generous contributions of at Quarles Elementary School. ents, Shannon and Elisha
Naval Construction Battalion for the family of Tyler and water and fruit from the I.P. Both children are being Myers, with medical bills and
Center (NCBC) Gulfport Naval Katelyn Myers. Casino and emergency serv- treated in Augusta, Ga., for living expenses, Long Beach
Construction Training Center With backpacks loaded with ices from the AMR team of Me- third degree burns following a Police Department organized
(NCTC) Builder and Steel- water and food, the volunteers morial Hospital. fire accident at their home in this event and collected more
worker “A” School, students began their 15-mile journey At each city along the route November. than $4,000 in donations.

January 4, 2013
VIP on board NCTC graduation Think you’re tough . . .
enough to play RUGBY?
“Rugby is a game for BARBAR- We are di-
IANS that is played by GENTLE- verse and
MEN” The newly formed strong. If you
Mississippi Gulf Coast Rugby Club think you
is recruiting players, coaches and have what it
fans for the 2013 season right takes, come
now. We aren’t looking for out and see
wanna-be tough guys, people for yourself. Practice is held at

Seabee Courier
who are out of shape or people Popps Ferry Fields on Tuesday
who don’t have time to dedicate and Thursday at 6 p.m. Bring a
three days a week. Once you friend, if you think they can hang.
learn how to play, this sport will For more information, visit Missis-
supersede your love of any other. sippi Gulf Coast Men’s Rugby
Our games last 80 minutes, split Football Club at www.MSGulf-
into 40 minute halves, and de- CoastRugby.com,
mand a high level of endurance, http://HTOsports.com/MS-
Rear Adm. Don Quinn, commander Naval Education and Training Command strength and teamwork. The GULFCOASTRUGBY or call
(NETC) presents certificates of completion to a graduating class of Steel- team is comprised of military and Joey at 228-243-2673, Billy at
worker “A” school students during a ceremony at Naval Construction Training civilians, officers and enlisted, 440-251-4411, Doug at 228-
Center (NCTC) Gulfport Dec. 19. (U.S. Navy photo by Steve Vanderwerff/Released) blue-collar workers and doctors, 493-6191 or email, MSGulf-
18 year-olds to 40 year-old men. CoastRugby@gmail.com. 7

Seabees Adopt-A-Highway

Seabees assigned to 20th Seabee
Readiness Group (SRG) R73 are pic-
tured during a quarterly clean up of
Highway 53 in Saucier, Miss. The 43
service members adopted the high-
way to add to their volunteer experi-
ence and clean up the environment.
The volunteers will be responsible for
their stretch of Highway 53 for the
next year. To adopt a 1 or 2-mile por-
tion of a highway in Harrison County,
visit gomdot.com or contact the Dis-
trict 6 Litter Program Coordinator at
601-544-6511. (U.S. Navy photo cour-
tesy of R-73/Released)

January 4, 2013
NMCB 133 Detail Bravo honors fallen during ‘Run to Remember’
By Lt.j.g. Mat Ward maintained the group’s motivation by
NMCB 133 Public Affairs leading the cadences and setting the
KUWAIT –With temperatures in the pace. The group ran two laps around
high 40’s, the troops of Naval Mobile the perimeter of the Life Support Area
Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133’s (LSA) singing loud and proud.
Detail Bravo got together for a 2.5 mile Detail Bravo’s Senior Enlisted Advisor,
Run to Remember sponsored by mem- Senior Chief Equipment Operator
bers of the Army Support Group – James Brock, was at the front of the
Kuwait (ASG-KU), Dec. 24. formation representing the Seabees
The Run to Remember gave the detail and gave all an opportunity to reflect

Seabee Courier
a chance to honor their fallen brothers on the importance of the camaraderie
and sisters of the armed forces this they share.
holiday season. The group of runners, NMCB 133 is currently deployed to
that included service members from the U.S Central Command area of re-
the Army, Marine Corps and Navy, sponsibility to support engineering op-
started the ceremony by introducing erations.
themselves. Following a blessing for Senior Chief Equipment Operator
the health and safety of the runners by James Brock, a native of Tucson, Ariz.,
the Chaplain of the ASG-KU Resiliency assigned to Naval Mobile Construc-
Center, the runners took a moment of tion Battalion (NMCB) 133 Detail
silence to honor the fallen before start- Bravo, leads the formation during the
ing the motivational formation run. Remembrance Run, Dec. 24. (U.S. Navy
Throughout the run, Detail Bravo photo by Lt.j.g. Mathew Ward/Released) 8

Focus on Education

Members of the Biloxi High School Student 2 Student (S2S)
program gather for a photo. One of the important objectives
of the S2S program is to change the transitioning students
focus from what they have lost by moving to what they have
Ocean Springs High School members of the Student 2 Student or S2S club are pictured
to gain at their new location. Contact Kevin Byrd, Naval Con-
in the courtyard of the school. Ocean Springs High School is one of eight Mississippi High
struction Battalion Center (NCBC) school liaison officer at
Schools that have S2S clubs. (Photo courtesy of MWR/Released)
228-871-2117 for details on S2S. (Photo courtesy of MWR/Released)

S2S Clubs: Meeting the needs of new students
neighborhood in which you does not have to be difficult- student's focal point from what Schools were funded by the
By Kevin Byrd
NCBC School Liaison Officer live, or the community into "just different." S2S or Student the student just lost to what Navy. Military Child Education
Imagine being a school age which you have just moved. 2 Student, is a unique, student the student will gain. Coalition provided the training
child waking up one morning Moving to a new place, led, school-managed program When students do not feel which was centered around
realizing that you are in a adjusting to a new school, en- that confronts the challenges threatened by the transition academics, relationships and
strange new place and, except countering new teachers and of transition and provides rele- process, and when someone finding the way.
for your family, you don't know finding new friends are daunt- vant training that gives stu- understands them and shares For information on S2S, or
anyone at all. ing and scary experiences for dents the best possible in the process, it makes any of the other programs
You have no friends, you most school-age children, es- transition experience. transition more acceptable. available for your student, con-

January 4, 2013
have no one to talk to and you pecially, if the child faces the S2S is a powerful program The initial training for the tact Kevin Byrd, NCBC school
know nothing about the school experience more than once. that uses student trainers to S2S programs at Ocean liaison officer, 228-871-2117 or
you are about to enter, the Believing that transitioning help change a transitioning Springs and Biloxi High kevin.r.byrd@navy.mil.

Balfour Beatty Communities
is hosting a

Mardi Gras Ball for
Ocean Springs Mardi Gras Parade . . . 38th Annual Residents of Base
Ocean Springs-Elks Mardi Grad Parade is looking
Housing!
for floats and marching units (with or without Seabee Courier
flags.) Traditionally, the first parade of the
Season, the parade will roll through downtown Jan. 18, 6 - 9 p.m.
Ocean Springs Jan. 26 at 1 p.m. The theme this Rhodes Hall, building 303
year is “Salute to the Military!” For more informa-
tion, contact Capt. Linda Geisaka, 228-871-4977. Call for more info! 228-863-0424

9

infamous Bourbon Street. Smell the
tasty Cajun favorites and let the
sounds of jazz and blues move you.
Sign up today. The FREE shuttle de-
parts at 9 a.m.
How’s your aim? Take a trip with
Liberty to the Gun Ho Shooting
Range Sunday and find out. The
FREE shuttle departs the Liberty
Center at noon.

Navy Outdoor Recreation:
Fitness Sunday, “Hotel Transylvania,” Toughen up . . . don’t let that cold
It’s time to stop talking about it PG, 2 p.m.; “Taken 2,” PG13, 4 p.m. weather keep you indoors! NOR has
and make those 2013 New Year’s Monday, Bourne Legacy,” PG13, lots of fun equipment that will make
resolutions a reality at the CBC Fit- 6 p.m. you forget all about that chill in the
ness Center. Personal Trainers are air.
available to design a customized Information, Tickets and Shhhhhhh . . . I smell a doe . . .
work out plan just for you! These Travel: no a hog! Sorry Elmer Fudd, this
professionals motivate and cus- Active Duty, Reservist, National hunt doesn’t include rabbits. Put on
tomize a plan based on a client’s in- your camouflage and sign up today
Guard, USCG and Retirees are now
dividual needs. Trainers are open to for a Navy Outdoor Recreation
eligible for a complimentary Univer-
all eligible MWR patrons and are hunting trip package. Packages in-
sal 3 Day Park-to-Park ticket and
available at an affordable rate of clude transportation, lodging and
Blue Man Group Ticket at children’s
$30 for active duty and $45 for all meals and your choice of doe or
price! All dependents and DOD per-
reservists, dependents, retirees and hog hunting or both. This opportu-
sonnel are eligible for discounted
DOD civilians. This price covers five nity is scheduled for Jan. 25 – 27
Universal 2 Day, with 3rd Day Free
one-hour sessions of one on one and pricing starts as low as $1,000.
tickets! Call ITT for info!
time with an expert. Start today, Plus, the ranch does the dirty work
Disney Military Salute tickets are
call 228- 871-2668. and retrieves and cleans your kills
in! The promotion has been ex-
Do you need people around to for you. Be sure to bring an ice
tended for your deeply discounted 4
motive you to work out? Then, chest so you can take the meat
Day Park Hopper Ticket. New tick-
make time for a group fitness class. home to the family. Call NOR for de- and good times are what you can only $7, hop in the pool with
ets are valid through Sept. 30, and
The CBC Fitness Center offers tails and to put down a deposit expect at Anchors & Eagles. Open your fellow Youth Activities Center
they’re only $153.25 each! Pur-
courses as early as 8 a.m. and as today, 228-871-2127. Tuesday - Thursday 2 - 9 p.m., pals and feel like its summer
chase up to six for your Disney get-
late as 6 p.m. Get your heart pump- FREE Batting Cage: No more to- and designated for chiefs and offi- again this Saturday, 10 a.m. –
away. *Eligible patrons only (active
ing with some strength/cardio, kens needed. Stop by and take a cers. Stop by and shake off the 4 p.m. Please bring a sack lunch.
duty, reservist, retired).
Zumba or cycling. You can also try swing! Rent bats and helmets at no day with comrades. Explain the strange . . . under-
Don’t blink . . . or this offer will
out the new low impact aerobics charge from Outdoor Recreation stand the misunderstood . . .
race by you like the Daytona 500.

January 4, 2013
course or center yourself with yoga. during business hours. Youth Activities make your brain swell with the
Feel the rumble of the stadium in
For the class schedule, visit us on YAC’s Weird Science Night
person. Book your Daytona Interna- Just because it’s cold outside
Facebook at NCBC Gulfport MWR or Food & Beverage Wednesday, 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. Ex-
tional Speedway package today! doesn’t mean you have to avoid
stop by the Fitness Center today! The Beehive is now open every plore fish facts from the Gulf of
ITT is offering packages at great the pool. Sign up today for indoor
day of the week! Watch the game Mexico for free!
prices that include a ticket to the swimming at the Kroc Center. For
Recreation Daytona 500, round trip transporta- on one of our seven flat screens,
FREE Movie Program at the Train- tion on a Coach bus and two nights’ play a little pool and enjoy good
ing Hall: Take a load off. Sit back hotel accommodations. Package times with friends! With an excel- For more information
lent beverage selection, you are
and watch the big screen all by
yourself for some alone time, or
prices vary depending on room oc-
cupancy - starting at $450 for a sin- sure to find your preference. Call about MWR programs and
make it a family night and bring the gle and running as low as $160 for for details 228-871-4009.
Don’t want to get out in the cold
opportunities, contact:
whole crew! Stop by the Snack Bar four person occupancy. The trip
on your way in to get that buttered runs from Feb. 23 - 25, and an ini- for lunch? Let The Grill bring it to

Seabee Courier
Anchors & Eagles 228-871-4607
movie popcorn and those other tial down payment is due by Jan. you. The Grill offers lunch delivery Auto Hobby 228-871-2804
goodies that help you get lost in the 18. Call ITT for details, 228-871- Monday – Friday from 11 a.m. – 1 Beehive 228-871-4009
2231. p.m. Call 228-871-2494 to place Child Development Center 228-871-2323
moment. Forget what was playing? Fitness Center
your order. Fight that early morn- 228-871-2668
No worries - put the movie hotline Information, Tickets & 228-871-2231
in your phone, 228-871-3299 and Liberty Center: ing chill by getting a hot break- Travel
call anytime! OMG – A trip to New Orleans this fast. The Grill is open as early as Liberty Center 228-871-4684
Friday, “End of Watch,” R, Saturday! Text your buddies now 6:30 a.m. Take your pick from Seabee Heritage Center 228-871-3619
French toast plates to breakfast Navy Outdoor Recreation 228-871-2127
6:30 p.m. and get on board Liberty’s FREE RV Park 228-871-5435
shuttle and explore The Big Easy. burritos or traditional eggs and
Saturday, “Finding Nemo,” G, The Grill 228-871-2494
Play a tourist for a day or blend in bacon. The Grill is located at the Training Hall 228-871-4750
noon; “Here Comes the Boom,” PG,
like the locals. Enjoy the historical corner of Colby and 7th Street. Youth Activities Center 228-871-2251
3 p.m.; “Resident Evil Retribution,”
sites, shopping, fine dining or the Anchors & Eagles: Great service Main Office 228-871-2538
R, 5:30 p.m. 10

NCBC Helping Hands volunteer opportunities
LONG BEACH ALTERNATIVE WOOLMARKET ELEMENTARY Shawna_Tatge@uss.salvationarmy.org http://www.usovolunteer.org/. Volun-
SCHOOL SEEKS MENTORS - Long SCHOOL SEEKS MENTORS - Wool- DRIFTWOOD NURSING HOME - teers are needed at both USO loca-
Beach Alternative School on Old Pass market Elementary School on John Lee Want to make a difference in the life tions - (NMPS 2nd Floor, NCBC and
Road in Long Beach is looking for Road in Biloxi is looking for mentors of the elderly then volunteer with Gulfport Biloxi International Airport.)
mentors for three high school girls and for their male students as they prepare Driftwood Nursing Home located right PROFESSIONAL GOLF ASSOCIA- 24400 Highway 15, Saucier. Volunteer
four high school boys. Mentor duties for middle school. Please contact outside the Broad Avenue gate. The TION NEEDS VOLUNTEERS - Volun- will receive a shirt, hat or visor, a cre-
will include providing direction on as- Shirley Hardman at 228-392-5640 for contact for this volunteer opportunity teers are needed for the Professional dential for the Week, meals during
signments, increasing personal ac- more information or to volunteer. is Christina at 228-243-3421. Golf Association (PGA) Champions shift, six good-any-day tickets, a free
countability and other life skills. COAST SALVATION ARMY NEEDS VOLUNTEER WITH USO - Volunteer- Tour featuring top golfers - Fred Cou- round of golf at Grand Bear and ad-
Please call Michelle Harrison at 228- VOLUNTEERS - Volunteers are need ing is both fun and rewarding. If you ples, Tom Lehman, Mark Calcavecchia, mission to a volunteer party at Hard
865-1956 for more information or to for various projects throughout the are interested in volunteering or would Nick Price, & Bernhard Langer March Rock, Biloxi. For details, contact
volunteer. year. Contact Shawna Tatge for info, like more information, please visit 18 - 24 at the Fallen Oak Golf Club, Stephanie Griffis, 228-896-6365.

Chapel Offerings
Seabee Memorial Chapel Looking for a church? Home. The Seabee Pantry is for
The Seabee Memorial Chapel holds anyone affiliated with NCBC.
services every Sunday that might suit Praise and Worship
your needs. Protestant Services in- The Seabee Memorial Chapel is looking
clude a Gospel Service at 8 a.m. and for new members for the Praise and
Divine Worship Service at 10:30 a.m. Worship Team for the Divine Worship
Catholic Services include Catholic Service at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. If you
Mass at 9:30 a.m. There is also can sing or play an instrument, you are
Catholic Mass Tuesdays at 11:15 a.m. invited to come share your gift.
Seabee Pantry Women’s Bible Study Women’s
The Seabee Pantry needs restocking. Fall Bible Study is held Wednesdays
During the holidays, the need for food at 11 a.m. at the Seabee Memorial
donations is at its highest level. Chapel. The Fall Bible Study is con-
Please donate as many canned goods ducting a six-week study by Jen-
and other nonperishables as possible. nifer Rothchild - Missing Pieces.”
Donation drop-off sites are located at Free child care is available.
the Navy Exchange, Chapel, Commis- For more information on all offer-
sary, Fleet and Family Support Center ings that are available, contact the
and Armed Forces Retirement chapel at 228-871-2454.

January 4, 2013
Looking for a way to
serve your community?
Center Chaplains: Interested in a law en-
Lt. Cmdr. Paul Smith, Protestant Chaplain forcement career? If so,
Lt. Yoon Choi, Protestant Chaplain consider volunteering
For information concerning other faith groups, your off duty time and become a

Seabee Courier
call the chapel office at 228-871-2454 Gulfport Police Reserve Officer or
Services: a Reserve Community Service
Gospel Service: 8 a.m. Technician. Call
Sunday Catholic Mass: 9:30 a.m. Lt. Phillip Kincaid at 228-868-
Weekday Mass: Tuesday, 11:15 a.m. 5900, ext. 6189 or email him at
Divine Worship: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. pkincaid@gulfport-ms.gov for ad-
ditional information.
11

Seabee Courier Jan. 4, 2013

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Seabee Courier Jan. 4, 2013