NMCB 4 Seabee Awarded Purple Heart

HELMAND, Afghanistan (NNS) -- A Sailor assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 was awarded the Purple Heart Medal Nov. 28 for wounds received in action.

Utilitiesman 3rd Class Crystal McDougal was awarded the medal while surrounded by the close-knit family of NMCB 4's convoy security element (CSE).

"My team was there for me when we were hit, and they are there for me now as I recover," said McDougal. "I am honored to be a part of the team, and proud to be called a member of CSE."

McDougal was in her position as gunner when her mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle (MRAP) was hit by an improvised explosive device (IED). Wearing the gunner's harness and hooked in, and all of her personal protective equipment prevented McDougal from sustaining further injuries and is a testament to the high standards of professionalism of "Team Nightmare" under the leadership of Chief Construction Mechanic Nathan Chun, CSE's officer in charge.

The team's thorough training and cohesiveness was apparent at the scene when the medical evacuation request was radioed in, and while Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Oscar Morales, stabilized the wounded. Their expert teamwork resulted in McDougal's transportation to a higher echelon of care within 45 minutes.

Even when NMCB 4's Commanding Officer, Cmdr. La Tanya Simms, and Command Master Chief Michael Jenkins, visited McDougal at Camp Leatherneck's medical facility and under the influence of medication, her first question was inquiring about the welfare of the rest of the team. On her feet again six days after the incident to receive her award, she requested a small ceremony, preferring to have only her CSE family attend.

NMCB 4's CSE team has grown close and rallied around one of their own as she was recognized for her sacrifice in service to her team, battalion and country.

For more news from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4, visit www.navy.mil/local/nmcb4/.