Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133 concluded its mission in Zagan, Poland as part of Exercise Resolute Castle 2019, July 12, 2019.

Detail (DET) Zagan’s task was to work directly in support of the British Army’s 71st Royal Engineer Regiment in the construction of a sheet metal building (K-Span), K-Span foundation, and a plumb and sync ramp. The ultimate goal was to exchange professional skills and knowledge while highlighting each unit’s capacity for interoperability.

“Without a plethora of knowledge regarding a naval mobile construction battalion’s capabilities, the 71st Engineer Regiment took a calculated risk in requesting the Runnin’ Roos’ assistance,” said Ensign Caleb Aaberg, DET Zagan officer in charge. “Our troops stood tall and delivered on behalf of all Seabees.”

K-Spans were a staple of contingency construction during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, enabling units to quickly establish forward operating bases. The better units could fabricate and erect similar sized K-Span superstructures in less than two days while under 24-hr operations. Though these buildings are no longer being heavily utilized on large scale conflicts, it’s advantageous to remain well-versed in their construction in the case our country is once again called to resolve conflicts.

"This project was a fortunate learning experience for all ranks throughout all aspects of military and construction and training," said Steelworker 1st Class Michael Gilchrest, DET Zagan leading petty officer. "Teamwork was learned; different construction methods were introduced; new skills passed from everyone involved. Many leadership styles and traits were tested, and unconsciously the cohesion of the group became tighter." 

Along the vein of resolving conflict, DET Zagan was employed as part of a much larger mission: Operation Atlantic Resolve, meant to deter aggression towards NATO allies. Atlantic Resolve is a demonstration of continued U.S. commitment to reassure the allies and partners of America’s dedication to peace and stability in the European region. Multinational training events like these improve interoperability, promote trust, and strengthen the relationships with America’s allies.

Upon gaining the respect and trust of the 71st Engineer Regiment, Aaberg was selected as site commander for the K-Span project during the final two weeks of the project. Commanding both U.S. Navy Seabees and U.K. Army soldiers. With this distinct honor came the responsibility to complete all tasking in a timely and quality manner.

“My message to the troops was simple: ‘You have the chance to bring this project to fruition and the work you do in the following days will determine whether or not we succeed,’” said Aaberg. “Everyone worked seamlessly together completing all of the tasks at hand, offering a glimpse of how effective interoperability can be.”

It is with beaming optimism that NMCB 133 wishes to cross paths with the Royal Engineers again.

“At times we lent heavily on the Seabees for their experience and they delivered in spades proving to be the class act of the squadron with their ‘Kangaroo Can Do’ attitude!” said Lt. Col. William Smallwood, 71st Engineering Regiment Commanding Officer. “I hope we have the opportunity of working with either NMCB 133 or other Seabees in the future.”

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