By MC1 Cliff Williams, NMCB 133 Public Affairs
EA3 Johnathon Grantham, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133, uses an air compressor nail gun to hang wood siding on house during a community relations project with Habitat for Humanity. Grantham, along 14 other NMCB 133 Seabees, spent two days and 120 total work hours in Pascagoula, Miss.
Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133 volunteered to help construct a house for Habitat for Humanity in the community of Pascagoula, Mississippi.
For these 15 Seabees, it was a chance to hone their skills for NMCB 133 s upcoming deployment. For others, it was a chance to build something in their own community, where the recipients will forever be grateful. No matter the reason, a well deserving family will be able to live comfortably because of their efforts.
When I deployed last year, I was in Romania building Southeast Asia hut style buildings for the Naval Support Activity in Deveselu. Even though that was an important build, I m always a big fan of building for people where I am part of the community, said Builder 1st Class Scott Case. To be part of this build gives you a sense of pride you can only get when you re home because you can see your achievements any time you want.
The Seabees taking part in this program receive training while in homeport. They were also able to work with civilian volunteers who have amassed years of experience working in the construction field, giving these Seabees valuable trade-skills.
"These Seabees are not only performing construction work, they are improving the community and the quality of life for the residents of Pascagoula," said Steelworker 1st Class John Thompson, NMCB 133 s on site supervisors. "They used this opportunity to learn from the experienced and then pass on their skills to the younger volunteers."
Volunteering has been a recurring theme for the battalion. Since returning home from deployment earlier this year, Seabees have participated in several community relations projects such as the Special Olympics, several school Field Days, and construction builds at local schools.
I try to volunteer any time possible," said Engineering Aide 3rd Class Johnathon Grantham. "Just knowing that a few hours of my time for this project will affect the lives of many people is the reason why I volunteer.
Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds houses for those in need with special features to accommodate physically disabled residents. Constructed with wider doors throughout the house and wheelchair-ramps, the new home is for qualified personnel who must contribute at least 400 hours of volunteer hours toward the Habitat Home.
Builder Constructionman Zachary Paiva, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133, removes a stray nail during a community relations project with Habitat for Humanity. Paiva, along 14 other NMCB 133 Seabees, spent two days and 120 total work hours in Pascagoula, Miss.