Seabee Combat Handbook Vol 1

8/8/2019 Seabee Combat Handbook Vol 1

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DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

NONRESIDENT

TRAINING

COURSEApril 1993

Seabee Combat

Handbook, Volume 1NAVEDTRA 14234


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DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Although the words he, him, andhis are used sparingly in this course toenhance communication, they are notintended to be gender driven or to affront ordiscriminate against anyone.


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COMMANDING OFFICERNETPTDC

6490 SAUFLEY FIELD ROADPENSACOLA, FL 32509-5237

Errata #1Mar 1996

Specific Instructions and Errata forTraining Manual (TRAMAN)

SEABEE COMBAT HANDBOOK, VOLUME 1

1. No attempt has been made to issue corrections for errors in typing,punctuation, etc., that do not affect your ability to answer the question orquestions.

2. Change the following items in the training manual:

a. Delete the caption under figure 3-26, page 3-11, and replace with

"5.56-mm ammunition for the M16A1."

b. Add under figure 3-26, page 3-11, "Warning: Ammunition for the M16A1and the M16A1E3 are not interchangeable."

C. Delete paragraph 1, page 3-9, under header "Malfunction, Stoppage,and Immediate Action." Replace with "Malfunction is an unplanned cessation offire. A malfunction occurs because of a stoppage caused by a mechanicalfailure of the weapon, magazine, or ammunition."

d. Under the header "Malfunction, Stoppage, and Immediate Action" page3-9 numbers 1 through 4. Replace with

-Slap up on bottom of the magazine-Pull charging handle to rear-Observe for an ejection of the round

-Release the charging handle-Tap the forward assist

-Aim on target

-Squeeze the trigger again

NOTE: "Apply immediate action only one time for a given stoppage. If theweapon still fails to fire, inspect it to determine the cause of the stoppageand take appropriate action."

e. Delete paragraph 2, page 3-3, "unless specifically...

f. Delete bullet #4 on page 3-3 that begins with the statement "The newmodel no longer...

g. Delete the note on page 3-7 that begins with the statement "Disengage

the takedown...

h. Replace all references of "M16A2" with "M16A2E3"


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COMMANDING OFFICERNETPTDC

6490 SAUFLEY FIELD ROADPENSACOLA, FL 32509-5237

Errata #3 7 May 2001

Specific Instruction and Errata forNonresident Training Course

SEABEE COMBAT HANDBOOK, VOLUME 1

1. This errata supersedes all previous errata. No attempt has been made toissue corrections for errors in typing, punctuation, etc., that do not affectyour ability to answer the question or questions.

2. To receive credit for deleted questions, show this errata to your localcourse administrator (ESO/scorer). The local course administrator is directedto correct the course and the answer key by indicating the questions deleted.

3. Assignments

Delete the following questions and leave the corresponding spaces blankon the answer sheets:

Question

2-203-285-67

Make the following changes:

Question Changes2-71 Change the responses as follows:

1. low

2. high

3-45 Change the responses as follows:3. maximum firepower to the right and to the front4. minimum firepower to the front and maximum to

the right

5-65 Add a response to Column B as follows:4. Blood

6-7 Change the stem as follows: "You are the first person tolearn of a chemical attack. You immediately stop breathing.Which of the following actions should you take next?"

6-7 Change the response as follows:

4. Wait for instruction from your squad leader

8-32 Change the stem as follows: "When clearing an M60 machinegun, you should place the safety on SAFE after which of thefollowing procedures?"


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i

PREFACE

By enrolling in this self-study course, you have demonstrated a desire to improve yourself and the Navy.

Remember, however, this self-study course is only one part of the total Navy training program. Practical

experience, schools, selected reading, and your desire to succeed are also necessary to successfully round

out a fully meaningful training program.

COURSE OVERVIEW: In completing this nonresident training course, you will demonstrate a

knowledge of the subject matter by correctly answering questions on the following: History and

Organization of the Seabees and Laws of War; Special Clothing and Equipment; Service Rifle and Pistol

Marksmanship; Combat Maneuvers, Formations, Patrols, and Ambushes; Land Navigation; Evasion,

Survival, and Escape; Individual Protective Measures; Entanglements; Chemical, Biological, and

Radiological (CBR) Defense; First Aid and Field Sanitation; Grenades, Land Mines, and Booby Traps;

Organic Support Weapons: M203 and Machine Guns; and Organic Support Weapons: 60-mm Mortar and

AT4.

THE COURSE: This self-study course is organized into subject matter areas, each containing learning

objectives to help you determine what you should learn along with text and illustrations to help you

understand the information. The subject matter reflects day-to-day requirements and experiences of

personnel in the rating or skill area. It also reflects guidance provided by Enlisted Community Managers

(ECMs) and other senior personnel, technical references, instructions, etc., and either the occupational or

naval standards, which are listed in theManual of Navy Enlisted Manpower Personnel Classifications

and Occupational Standards, NAVPERS 18068.

THE QUESTIONS: The questions that appear in this course are designed to help you understand the

material in the text.

VALUE: In completing this course, you will improve your military and professional knowledge.

Importantly, it can also help you study for the Navy-wide advancement in rate examination. If you are

studying and discover a reference in the text to another publication for further information, look it up.

1993 Edition Prepared by

UCCM(SCW) R. C. Blackmon

Published by

NAVAL EDUCATION AND TRAININGPROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

AND TECHNOLOGY CENTER

NAVSUP Logistics Tracking Number

0504-LP-026-8720


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Sailors Creed

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend theConstitution of the United States of

America and I will obey the ordersof those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of theNavy and those who have gonebefore me to defend freedom anddemocracy around the world.

I proudly serve my countrys Navycombat team with honor, courageand commitment.

I am committed to excellence andthe fair treatment of all.


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CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

1. History and Organization of the Seabees and Laws of War . . . . . 1-1

2. Special Clothing and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1

3. Service Rifle and Pistol and Marksmanship . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1

4. Combat Maneuvers, Formations, Patrols, and Ambushes . . . . . .4-1

5. Land Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1

6. Evasion, Survival, Escape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-1

7. Individual Protective Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

8. Entanglements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-1

9. Chemical, Biological, and Radiological (CBR) Defense . . . . . .9-1

10. First Aid and Field Sanitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1

11. Organic Communications Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

12. Hand Grenades, Land Mines, and Booby Traps . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

13. Organic Support Weapons: M203 and Machine Guns . . . . . . . 13-1

14. Organic Support Weapons: 60-mm Mortar and AT4 . . . . . . . . 14-1

APPENDIX

I. Glossary of Common Military Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . AI-1

II. References used to develop the TRAMAN . . . . . . . . . . . . AII-l

INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-l

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SUMMARY OFSEABEE COMBAT HANDBOOK

TRAINING MANUALS

VOLUME 1

Seabee Combat Handbook Volume 1, NAVEDTRA 14234 consists of chapters

on the History and Organization of the Seabees and Laws of War; Special Clothingand Equipment; Service Rifle and Pistol Marksmanship; Combat Maneuvers,Formations, Patrols, and Ambushes; Land Navigation; Evasion, Survival, andEscape; Individual Protective Measures; Entanglements; Chemical, Biological, andRadiological (CBR) Defense; First Aid and Field Sanitation; OrganicCommunications Equipment; Hand Grenades, Land Mines, and Booby Traps;Organic Support Weapons: M203 and Machine Guns; and Organic SupportWeapons: 60-mm Mortar and AT4.

VOLUME 2

Seabee Combat Handbook Volume 2, NAVEDTRA 14235 consists of chapters

on Setup and Operation of the Command Post; Organization and Operation of theCombat Operation Center; Application of the Laws of Armed Conflict; Setup andControl of Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC); Planning and Development ofDefensive Tactics; Planning and Deployment of Patrols; Deployment and Controlof Heavy Weapons; and Deployment and Control of CBR and NBC Teams.

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REGULATIONS ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION

AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

Environmental Pollution and Hazardous Wrote Handling and Disposal programs have been enacted

and are United States law. These programs are of immense importance and should be taken intoconsideration during the planning stages before beginning any new construction or rehabilitation project.

As a member of the Naval Construction Forces, United States law requires you to be constantlyaware of potential environmental pollution hazards or hazardous material spills and to report them toyour immediate supervisor or other senior personnel at the earliest possible time.

The following list of directives contains information on the cognizant government departments andthe procedures for preventing, reporting, and correcting environmental pollution hazards and hazardousmaterials disposal worldwide:

Naval Occupational Safety and Health Program Manual, OPNAVINST 5100.23B

Environmental and Natural Resources Protection Manual, OPNAVINST 5090.1Domestic Wastewater Control, MIL-HDBK 1005/8

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAKING THE COURSE

ASSIGNMENTS

The text pages that you are to study are listed atthe beginning of each assignment. Study these

pages carefully before attempting to answer the

questions. Pay close attention to tables and

illustrations and read the learning objectives.The learning objectives state what you should be

able to do after studying the material. Answering

the questions correctly helps you accomplish the

objectives.

SELECTING YOUR ANSWERS

Read each question carefully, then select the

BEST answer. You may refer freely to the text.

The answers must be the result of your own

work and decisions. You are prohibited from

referring to or copying the answers of others and

from giving answers to anyone else taking the

course.

SUBMITTING YOUR ASSIGNMENTS

To have your assignments graded, you must be

enrolled in the course with the Nonresident

Training Course Administration Branch at the

Naval Education and Training Professional

Development and Technology Center

(NETPDTC). Following enrollment, there aretwo ways of having your assignments graded:

(1) use the Internet to submit your assignments

as you complete them, or (2) send all the

assignments at one time by mail to NETPDTC.

Grading on the Internet: Advantages to

Internet grading are:

you may submit your answers as soon asyou complete an assignment, and you get your results faster; usually by thenext working day (approximately 24 hours).

In addition to receiving grade results for each

assignment, you will receive course completion

confirmation once you have completed all the

assignments. To submit your assignment

answers via the Internet, go to:

https://courses.cnet.navy.mil

Grading by Mail: When you submit answer

sheets by mail, send all of your assignments atone time. Do NOT submit individual answer

sheets for grading. Mail all of your assignments

in an envelope, which you either provide

yourself or obtain from your nearest Educational

Services Officer (ESO). Submit answer sheets

to:

COMMANDING OFFICER

NETPDTC N331

6490 SAUFLEY FIELD ROAD

PENSACOLA FL 32559-5000

Answer Sheets: All courses include one

scannable answer sheet for each assignment.

These answer sheets are preprinted with your

SSN, name, assignment number, and course

number. Explanations for completing the answer

sheets are on the answer sheet.

Do not use answer sheet reproductions: Use

only the original answer sheets that we

providereproductions will not work with our

scanning equipment and cannot be processed.

Follow the instructions for marking your

answers on the answer sheet. Be sure that blocks

1, 2, and 3 are filled in correctly. Thisinformation is necessary for your course to be

properly processed and for you to receive credit

for your work.

COMPLETION TIME

Courses must be completed within 12 months

from the date of enrollment. This includes time

required to resubmit failed assignments.


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PASS/FAIL ASSIGNMENT PROCEDURES

If your overall course score is 3.2 or higher, youwill pass the course and will not be required to

resubmit assignments. Once your assignments

have been graded you will receive course

completion confirmation.

If you receive less than a 3.2 on any assignment

and your overall course score is below 3.2, you

will be given the opportunity to resubmit failed

assignments. You may resubmit failed

assignments only once. Internet students will

receive notification when they have failed an

assignment--they may then resubmit failed

assignments on the web site. Internet students

may view and print results for failed

assignments from the web site. Students who

submit by mail will receive a failing result letterand a new answer sheet for resubmission of each

failed assignment.

COMPLETION CONFIRMATION

After successfully completing this course, you

will receive a letter of completion.

ERRATA

Errata are used to correct minor errors or delete

obsolete information in a course. Errata mayalso be used to provide instructions to the

student. If a course has an errata, it will be

included as the first page(s) after the front cover.

Errata for all courses can be accessed andviewed/downloaded at:

https://www.advancement.cnet.navy.mil

STUDENT FEEDBACK QUESTIONS

We value your suggestions, questions, and

criticisms on our courses. If you would like tocommunicate with us regarding this course, we

encourage you, if possible, to use e-mail. If you

write or fax, please use a copy of the Student

Comment form that follows this page.

For subject matter questions:

E-mail: [email protected]: Comm: (850) 452-1001, Ext. 1826

DSN: 922-1001, Ext. 1826

FAX: (850) 452-1370

(Do not fax answer sheets.)Address: COMMANDING OFFICER

NETPDTC N314



For enrollment, shipping, grading, or

completion letter questions

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: Toll Free: 877-264-8583

Comm: (850) 452-1511/1181/1859

DSN: 922-1511/1181/1859FAX: (850) 452-1370

(Do not fax answer sheets.)

Address: COMMANDING OFFICER

NETPDTC N331



NAVAL RESERVE RETIREMENT CREDIT

If you are a member of the Naval Reserve, you

may earn retirement points for successfully

completing this course, if authorized undercurrent directives governing retirement of Naval

Reserve personnel. For Naval Reserve retire-

ment, this course is evaluated at 18 points. These

points will be credited as follows:

Unit 1 12 points upon satisfactory completion

of Assignments 1 through 6

Unit 2 6 points upon satisfactory completion

of Assignments 7 through 9

(Refer to Administrative Procedures for NavalReservists on Inactive Duty, BUPERSINST

1001.39, for more information about retirement

points.)


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ix

Student Comments

Course Title: Seabee Combat Handbook, Volume 1

NAVEDTRA: 14234 Date:

We need some information about you:

Rate/Rank and Name: SSN: Command/Unit

Street Address: City: State/FPO: Zip

Your comments, suggestions, etc.:

Privacy Act Statement: Under authority of Title 5, USC 301, information regarding your military status is

requested in processing your comments and in preparing a reply. This information will not be divulged without

written authorization to anyone other than those within DOD for official use in determining performance.

NETPDTC 1550/41 (Rev 4-00


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CHAPTER 1

HISTORY AND ORGANIZATION OF THE SEABEESAND LAWS OF WAR

The Seabees are the Navys construction forces; and

few select teams, if any, enjoy a finer reputation amongAmericas fighting men. During their short history, theSeabees have won fame, honor, and distinction as anorganization that Can Do, even when faced withpractically insurmountable obstacles. A brief discussion

on the history of the Seabees is given below.

THE CIVIL ENGINEER CORPS

No discussion on the history of the Seabees iscomplete without first explaining the origin and purposeof the Civil Engineer Corps (CEC). The CEC is

composed of dedicated staff corps officers who arespecialists in the field of civil engineering. A CIVILENGINEER is a professional engineer who performs avariety of engineering work in planning, designing, andoverseeing construction and maintenance of structuresand facilities, such as roads, airports, bridges, harbors,pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems.

Civil engineers have been an integral part of theNavy since its very beginning. Our first fleet consisted

of less than 10 ships. However, our forefathers realizedthat to survive as a nation, the United States must have

a Navy powerful enough to counter the naval threat frompirates and other great powers, such as England, France,and Spain. To meet this threat, Congress authorized thehiring, purchasing, and building of several additionalvessels. Suitable land for use as navy yards had to belocated, surveyed, and purchased. Logically, civilengineers were delegated to perform these tasks.

By the time Thomas Jefferson became President, theSecretary of the Navy, Mr. Stoddert, had established sixNavy Yards. All were managed by civil engineers,although they were not yet known as Civil EngineerCorps officers. In the following years, the number of

ships increased sharply as well as the need for more drydocks and repair facilities. The United States wasemerging as a great sea power and governmentalfunctions were becoming more complex. As a result, on31 August 1842, Congress established the Bureausystem. The Bureau of Yards and Docks(BUDOCKS)known now as the Naval FacilitiesEngineering Command (NAVFAC)was created, and

the chief of this bureau was a civil engineer. It was no

until 25 years later, however, that the Civil EngineerCorps was officially named and authorized. At that timethe officers in the corps were the forerunners of the CECofficers who lead the variety of Seabee units today.

As naval technology advanced in the modern erathe navies of the world ranged far over the great oceans

Ships grew more and more dependent upon anever-increasing chain of sophisticated shore bases fortheir support, both at home and abroad. The constructionof these bases necessitated a new and large organizationof seafaring fighter-builders.

Before 1941, the Civil Engineer Corps used privatecontractors to accomplish all overseas construction. Thecontractors, in turn, hired steelworkers, electricians,carpenters, draftsmen, and mechanics from privateindustry. However, the Navy realized that, in the evenof war, civilian contractors and construction workerscould not be used very well outside our own country. Ithey were attacked and attempted to defend themselvesthese civilians could be regarded as guerrillas. Alsosince most of them had never received any type ofcombat training, there was reason to believe that theycould not adequately defend themselves, even if their

lives depended on it. These fears soon became realities

As World War II drew near, there was an urgent needfor more overseas bases. Airfields and landing strips hadto be rushed into existence on far away islands. Clearlywe needed a combat MILITARY ORGANIZATIONtrained to construct these advance bases. Even beforethe outbreak of hostilities, the Bureau of Yards andDocks had conceived the idea of naval constructionbattalions. The first construction units were organizedearly in January 1942. Highly skilled constructionworkers were recruited, and whole construction

companies volunteered men and equipment.

THE FIRST SEABEES

The name Seabees is derived from these firsconstruction units, or construction battalions (CBS) asthey were called. Officially, permission to use the nameSeabee was granted on 5 March 1942. Each yearMarch 5th is observed as the anniversary of the Seabees

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Figure 1-1.Seabees going over one of the obstacle courses during combat training at Camp Endicott, Davisville, Rhode Island, duringWorld War II.

Because of the urgent need for these men, the firstSeabees had no time for military training. They weregiven medical shots, handed equipment, and sent off topick up where the civilian contractors left off. One month

after the first units were organized, Seabees were atwork constructing roads on Bora Bora, one of the

Society Islands, thousands of miles out in the PacificOcean.

Little time was given to training the next group ofrecruits, who were old hands in the construction trades,averaging 31 years of age. Since they were experiencedin their respective skills, they needed and receivedmostly military training. Some additional instruction intechnical matters peculiar to the Navy, such as pontoonassembly, was also given these men.

Throughout World War II the Seabees were withoutconstruction ratings as we know them now. They weregiven the most appropriate existing Regular Navy ratingon the basis of their civilian vocation and experience;for example, an experienced steelworker or plumberwho had achieved a position of responsibilityperhapsas a foreman or owner of a small businesswas ratedfirst class or chief Shipfitter. Seabees who held this and

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other ratings, such as Boatswains Mate, MachinistsMate, and Electricians Mate, were easily distinguishedfrom those who held corresponding shipboard ratingsby the Seabee insignia shoulder patch. This now famous

insignia consists of a flying beefighting madwith awhite hat on his head, a spitting tommy gun in his

front hands, a wrench in his middle hand, and a

carpenters hammer in his rear hand.

Soon the Seabees had grown enough to have theirown stations, such as Camp Endicott, Camp Allen, andCamp Bradford. Camp Peary, near Williamsburg,Viginia, became the receiving and training station forthe Seabees. At these camps, they learned such things as

combat formations, combat signals, fire control, combat

orders, first aid, use of various weapons, and military

courtesy. Instruction was also given in trail cutting andjungle warfare.

After boot training, the new Seabees were assigned toconstruction battalions and advanced training began. They

learned air raid protection, earthmoving, Quonset huterection, and dry refrigeration. Crosscountry marches,sleeping in the open, obstacle courses (fig. 1-1), andsimulated combat exercises toughened them up.


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After this advanced training, battalions wereordered to an-advanced base depot, such as PortHueneme, California, or Davisville, Rhode Island, toawait transportation overseas. Again, training continuedwhile they were being outfitted with the tools,construction equipment, and materials needed to buildadvanced bases and facilities. In addition, they took onstores of ammunition, food, and medical supplies; infact, everything necessary to make them self-sufficient.

By 1943, the training period for Seabees hadexpanded to about 3 months. However, in the spring of1945, a major change in their training took place.Training of organized construction battalions washalted, and emphasis was placed on training individualsto replace the battle-weary veterans due for discharge orrotation back to the States. Even then, time did notpermit extensive trade school training for the younger,unskilled Selective Service inductees. As a result,experienced personnel in the field had to augmentmeager stateside training with a lot of on-the-job

training.

Teams (UDTs) were composed largely of Seabees. Onlarge group of Seabees, called Naval ConstructioBattalions, Special, functioned as stevedores, loadingand off-loading cargo ships. Other groups includedautomotive repair detachments, pontoon assemblydetachments, pontoon operating battalions, andconstruction maintenance units. The latter maintaineexisting bases, releasing full battalions for building newones.

POST WORLD WAR II SEABEES

Since World War II, Seabees have participated in alkinds of training exercises. They have been part of thenaval Antarctic expeditions, and they participated in theatomic bomb tests on the Pacific Islands. Seabees havengaged in constructing overseas bases, such as those aSubic Bay, Philippines, and the Marine Corps AiFacility at Futema, Okinawa. They have manned Arctitest stations, and they have been associated with

resupply expeditions to Alaska.

Seabees served with the assault forces in almostevery major invasion in World War II, going ashore, in SEABEES IN KOREA

most cases, with or directly behind the first wave oftroops. Such names as Guadalcanal, Los Negros, In Korea, the Seabees rose to the challenge of the

Tarawa, Munda, Saipan, Tinian, Attu, Iwo Jima, Guam, Cold War in the tradition of their Can Do

Samar, Okinawa, Salerno, Sicily, and Normandy will predecessors. At the Inchon landing in September 1950

forever be associated with the Seabees, just as Seabees positioned pontoon causeways within hours o

Montezuma and the Shores of Tripoli are symbolic of the first beach assault under continuous enemy fire and

the traditions associated with the Marine Corps. in the face of enormous and strong tides.

Looking back, some of the jobs accomplished by the In addition to amphibious operations, the Seabee

Seabees in World War II seemed almost impossible. But were broken up into numerous detachments to servicethey were doneefficiently, effectively, and quickly! the K-fields of the various Marine air groups. Each

airfield of the Marine air groups was designated with aUndoubtedly, these accomplishments provided the K number, such as K-3 at Pohang, K-18 at Kimpo

basis for the Seabees famous quotation: Seoul, and K-2 at Teagan. As the war continued, the needarose for an advance airfield to retrieve damaged aircraf

The difficult task we accomplish right away, unable to reach home bases or carriers after raiding thethe impossible may take a little longer! North Korean interior.

The Seabees official motto is Construimus-Batuimus. Literally this means We BuildWe Fight.Even engineers who were used to visualizing largeconstruction projects were amazed at the Seabeesability to improvise and build. In the first 2 years of thewar, more than 300 advanced bases of various sizes andkinds were constructed by the Seabees.

In addition to earning the Navys traditional WeIldone! for construction work and defensive combat, the

Seabees also earned well-deserved recognition in othercapacities. The now famous Underwater Demolition

The project was code named Operation CrippledChick, and a detachment of Seabees was sent to Yo Doin the Bay of Wonson to build an airstrip. The Seabeewere given 35 days to complete the jobthe strip waready in 16 days. While building the strip, the Seabeeswere under constant artillery bombardment from enemyforces on neighboring islands.

The rapid demobilization that followed World WarII was not repeated after the signing of the KoreanArmistice in July 1953. The Cold War had created anecessity to maintain military strength andpreparedness. Crises in Berlin, Cuba, Africa, South

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facilities, bunkers, and other facilities needed tocontinue the struggle. In accordance with the mobileconcept of the Naval Construction Force, Seabee unitssupported Marine, Navy, Army, and Air Forceoperations at camps and landing zones throughout RVNand at such outposts as Con Thien, Khe Sanh, and GioLinh.

For their efforts in Vietnam, Seabee units and

individual Seabees received formal recognition in theform of numerous commendations and medals.

In Vietnam, a Seabee, CM3 Marvin E. Shields, amember of Seabee Team 1104, was posthumouslyawarded the Medal of Honor. This nations highestrecognition was awarded to CM3 Shields for his heroicefforts in the defense of a Special Forces camp andVietnamese District Headquarters at Dong Xoai.

When de-escalation of U.S. activity in SoutheastAsia got under way, Seabee strength was once morereduced. By September 1970, NMCBs were down to the

planned post-RVN level of 10 full-size battalions. Oncemore, Seabees were being called upon to undertakemajor peacetime projects that had been deferred orneglected because of wartime priorities.

POST VIETNAM

Todays Seabees are involved in new and far-reaching construction frontiers, the Indian Ocean, theTrust Territories of the Pacific Islands, and on the oceanfloor.

One of the major peacetime projects everundertaken by the Seabees is the complete development,construction, and operation of the United Statescommunications station on Diego Garcia in the IndianOcean. Construction was started in early 1971.

Prior to 1971, Diego Garcia was a jungle-coveredatoll devoid of activity except for a small meteorologicalstation and a copra plantation. Today, it is a busy navalsupport activity, all due to the largest peacetimeconstruction effort ever accomplished by the Seabees.This tremendous effort ultimately involved some 14

naval construction force (NCF) commands, 17 battaliondeployments, and over 60 individual detachmentdeployments. The Seabees completed over 200 Navyand Air Force projects, valued at over $200 million.

NMCB 40, the first detachment of Seabees involvedin this effort, was deployed by amphibious ship to DiegoGarcia in March 1971. They landed on the beach andquickly cleared temporary camp areas. Next, theycleared 15 acres of jungle, which was later used for more

permanent structures. They also completed a3,500-foot-long, C-130 capable airstrip and carved a4-mile road network out of the jungle.

Those early years presented many challengesremote location, difficult on-site conditions, adverseweather, extreme heat, material delivery delaysnumerous design changes, and problems establishing a13,000-mile logistic pipeline. Despite these hardships

Seabees completed 85 percent of construction on ninemajor industrial and support buildings. They cleared210 acres; and during the preparation of a permanenrunway base, they removed 200,000 cubic yards ounsuitable material and placed 300,000 cubic yards ocoral. All tested the Seabee Can Do motto.

Priorities and world situations changed howeverand what had originally been a 3-year mission for theSeabees was extended. After building an austerecommunications station, the Seabees were now taskedwith building Diego Garcia to provide broader suppor

for U.S. ships and aircraft in the Indian Ocean.By mid-1975, the Seabees completed an entire

Naval Construction Force camp that included berthingmessing, shops, storage, utilities, and recreationfacilities. Diego Garcia had become a minor nava

activity with a permanent airfield; air operationsbuildings; navigational aides; additional communications facilities; harbor operation facilities; alarge port with petroleum, oil, and lubricating (POLfacilities; telephone systems; water distribution; poweand electrical distribution; sewage systems; five BEQs

three BOQs, public works facilities, administrative, andother support facilities.

Today, Diego Garcia encompasses a busy supporfacility with a communications station, a naval aifacility, a major fuel storage facility, a permanent pierand other support structures. Naval Support FacilityDiego Garcia, hosts over 15 tenant activities, includinga weather service unit, a Navy broadcasting unit, andfleet air reconnaissance and patrol squadrons. The

runway at Diego Garcia has been lengthened from 8,000feet to 12,000 feet. The extension permits operation o

larger cargo aircraft as well as high-performancetactical aircraft under a variety of circumstances in thetropical climate. Other airfield improvements includeadditional parking aprons and arresting gear foemergency use and limited aircraft maintenancefacilities.

At the time Chief of Civil Engineers andCommander, Naval Facilities Engineering CommandRear Admiral William M. Zobel praised the Seabee

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Figure 1-2.Chain of command for LANTFLT NCF units.

efforts on Diego Garcia and said, With the departureof NMCB 62 from Diego Garcia on July 14, 1982, weclosed another illustrious chapter in our Seabeehistory.

UNITS OF THE NAVALCONSTRUCTION FORCE

The Naval Construction Force (NCF) consists ofcommissioned units of the Navy operating forces thatare under the control of the Chief of Naval Operations(CNO), as shown in figures 1-2 and 1-3. The CNO

commissions naval construction force units, assignsthem to the fleet, and approves their deployment. Healso defines the general mission, approves personnelallowance lists, establishes detachment sites, andapproves the NMCB table of allowance (TOA), exceptfor small arms, weapons, and landing party equipmentallowances, which are approved by the Chief of NavalMaterial.

Figure 1-3.Chain of command for PACFLT NCF units.

The Commanders in Chief of the Atlantic and

Pacific Fleets are charged with ensuring that NMCBdeployments and assigned projects follow CNO

policies. They exercise command or operational andadministrative control of the units of the NCF

assigned to their command. Command or operationalcontrol is the authority to assign tasks, to designateobjectives, to give any specific directions necessaryto accomplish the mission, and by a specified date,

when required. Command control and operational

control go together; if you have one, you

automatically have the other.

Under the Commanders in Chief of the Fleets,

various Type Commanders command all the ships orunits of a certain type; for example, all surface units ofthe Pacific Fleet (COMNAVSURFPAC); the

commander of the submarine forces in the Atlantic Fleetis COMSUBLANT.

Commander, Second Naval Construction Brigade

(Norfolk) and Commander, Third Naval Construction

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Brigade (Pearl Harbor) have been established as

representatives of the Commander in Chief, U.S.

Atlantic Fleet and the Commander in Chief, U.S. Pacific

Fleet, respectively, to exercise command and

administrative control over assigned NMCBs. Much of

this control is exercised through the home port NavalConstruction Regiment (NCR). The home port NCRperforms the routine functions related to coordination of

administration, training, project selection, and logisticsupport for assigned units. Logistic support by the home

port NCR consists of planning and carrying out the

movement of personnel and equipment, and furnishing

of services, supplies, and materials.

When a battalion is deployed overseas, it is under

the command and control of a separate NCF

commander. Operational command of the NMCB isexercised, in all cases, through a designated NCF

commander.

The Chief of Naval Operations may establish NavalConstruction Regiments (NCRs) and Brigades (NCBs)

to meet certain command requirements in particulargeographic areas or situations. Operational regimentsconsist of two or more NMCBs under one commander;

a brigade is made up of two or more regiments underone commander. The mission of the operational

brigades and regiments is different from the mission of

the home port regiments. Operational regiments andbrigades are primary planning groups and exist as

subdivisions of the military command, exercising the

administrative and operational control to meet specificoperational requirements. The home port regimentshave broad administrative and logistic duties that are

discussed in this chapter.

CONSTRUCTION BATTALION

UNITS (CBUs)

Construction Battalion Units (CBUs) are separate

activities of the Naval Shore Establishment and arecomponents of the Naval Construction Force. The CBU

mission is to be prepared to mobilize either as

contingency augment for active NMCBs or as FleetHospital public works support units; to conduct

individual military and technical skill training essential

to maintain the required readiness posture; and to

perform construction assignments or other such

functions as may be directed to further that intent.

CONSTRUCTION BATTALIONMAINTENANCE UNITS (CBMUs)

The Construction Battalion Maintenance Units(CBMUs) operate, maintain, and repair public worksand utilities at an already established advance base orat a recently constructed base after the departure ofthe NMCB or NMCBs that built it. In addition, theCBMU maintains security against unfriendly acts andis capable of conducting its own defenses. The CBMUalso provides limited construction support for thebase, for civic action programs, and for self-helpprojects. It also participates in disaster recoveryoperations.

Functions usually performed by a CBMU aremaintenance, repair, and minor construction of

buildings and grounds, existing roads within the base,and waterfront and airfield facilities. The CBMUoperates and maintains automotive, construction,weight-handling, and materials-handling equipment,

except for equipment assigned to combat units.

AMPHIBIOUS CONSTRUCTIONBATTALIONS (PHIBCBs)

The Amphibious Construction Battalions(PHIBCBs) are commissioned naval units whose mainfunction is to provide military and amphibiousconstruction support to the armed forces in militaryoperations. In addition to providing the means for

moving troops and equipment from ship to shore, thePHIBCB may

1. install and operate tanker-to-shore bulk fuel

delivery systems;

2. develop and improve beach facilities;

3. undertake special construction projects,especially those requiring surf, open sea, and heavyrigging experience, including work with pontoons andother floating equipment.

In some instances, there may be Underwater

Demolition Team (UDT) personnel working to removeunderwater obstacles that may jeopardize landingoperations.

The PHIBCB is organized administratively into aheadquarters company, an equipment company, twowaterfront companies, and a single construction

company. The size and composition of a PHIBCB isbased on providing support for landing a reinforcedinfantry division over four battalion-size beaches,

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normally considered to be 4400 meters wide. ThePHIBCB is not intended for prolonged use in the fieldand is finished when the mission of the naval beachgroup is accomplished. This group assists the landingforce in ship-to-shore movement by providing a uniformflow of material and services required by the landingforce. To carry out this task, the PHIBCB providescauseway piers, barge units, fuel systems, andconstruction in support of the landing party.

At present there are two PHIBCBs: AmphibiousConstruction Battalion ONE, operating from Coronado,California, and Amphibious Construction BattalionTWO, operating from Little Creek, Virginia.

UNDERWATER CONSTRUCTIONTEAMS (UCTs)

The Underwater Construction Teams (UCTs) arespecially trained units that construct, maintain, andrepair underwater facilities. Each UCT is capable ofperforming underwater construction tasks and

surveying the sea bottom to select the site for anunderwater facility.

The two UCTs are assigned to the 31st NCR and theThird Naval Construction Brigade, home ported atNaval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC), PortHueneme, California, and Naval Amphibious Base,Little Creek Virginia, respectively.

SEABEE TEAM (CIVIC ACTION TEAM)

A Seabee team is a small, highly mobile, air

transportable construction unit that can be tailored toaccomplish a variety of construction tasks. The standardcomposition of a Seabee team is one CEC officer and12 petty officers; however, when necessary, the standardpersonnel allowance can be increased to allow theundertaking of a specific deployment task. AlthoughSeabee team allowances are normally associated withan NMCB, the responsibility for the operation of theteam in a foreign country lies with the appropriateUnited States and host country agencies.

The tasks usually assigned to a team call forexperience in operating equipment needed for the

following tasks:

1. Constructing roads, dams, and bridges

2. Clearing forests and jungles to reclaim land fornew hamlets, croplands, and refugee centers

3. Drilling water wells

4. Digging irrigation canals

5. Building schools, and erecting, repairing, andimproving public buildings

Teams carry enough food, toolkits, and automotiveand construction equipment to be Self-sufficient in thefield while performing their construction tasks. Seabeeteams also provide medical and dental care to the localvillagers and conduct on-the-job training and classroominstruction for host country workmen.

These teams receive extensive training at theirparent NMCBs home port. After completion of thistraining, they may be deployed to any part of theworldgenerally to an underdeveloped area. Theseteams are actually the Seabees Peace Corps, and theirwork in Vietnam won the admiration of the Vietnamese.Seabee teams have also been deployed as engineers forthe Armys Special Forces, technical instructors for theAgency for International Development, andconstruction advisors under various military assistanceprograms.

ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORTING THENAVAL CONSTRUCTION FORCE

Many elements of the national defense organizationprovide support to the NCF, some directly and someindirectly. In this section we will cover only the NavalFacilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), NavalConstruction Battalion Centers (NCBCs), home portNaval Construction Regiments (NCRs), and NavalConstruction Force Support Units (NCFSUs).

NAVFAC

NAVFAC provides support for the NCF in thegeneral area of shore facilities and related material andequipment. The commander of NAVFAC serves astechnical advisor to the CNO on all matters relating tothe NCF and also as technical advisor to the Chief ofNaval Personnel (CNP) on all matters pertaining to CECofficers and Seabee personnel.

NAVAL CONSTRUCTION BATTALIONCENTERS (NCBCs)

The Naval Construction battalion Centers (NCBCs)are permanent shore stations equipped and staffed tosupport the NCF. Each NCBC has a supply and fiscaldepartment and a construction equipment department(CED) that furnishes depot level maintenance for unitsof automotive and construction equipment. This type ofmaintenance involves major overhaul, using facilitiesthat are not readily available at the battalion level. Naval

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Figure 1-4.Staff/function home port Naval ConstructionRegiment.

Construction Training Centers (NCTCs) are tenantcommands at the NCBCs and provide training schoolsfor NMCB personnel. A tenant command is one thatoccupies buildings and uses facilities provided as directsupport by the NCBC. The NCBC receives, preserves,stores, accounts for, and issues advanced base material

and equipment. Newly commissioned NMCBs areusually outfitted at the NCBC, which also provideshome port facilities. The NCBC is under themanagement and technical control of NAVFAC. Atpresent there are two NCBCs: one at Port Hueneme,California, and one at Gulfport, Mississippi.

HOME PORT NAVAL CONSTRUCTIONREGIMENTS (NCRs)

Home port NCRs are located at both of the NCBCs.Under the direction of the Second NCB/Third NCB, themission of the home port NCR is to ensure maximumeffectiveness of all units of the NCR, while at home port,in achieving the highest possible state of readiness tomeet their disaster recovery, contingency, and wartimemissions of military construction support of the armedforces. As a secondary mission, the home port NCR actsas a receiving and separating activity for Seabeepersonnel.

The home port NCRs exercise operational control

and, as specifically designated by the Second NCB/Third NCB, various elements of administrative controlover all units of the NCF at the home port. The homeport NCRs

conduct and coordinate military, technical, andspecialized training;

administer the details of the automotive andequipment program;

provide liaison with CBC on storage, preservation, and shipping of advance base anmobilization stocks;

provide management guidance and evaluate theffectiveness of military, operational, anmaterial readiness of all home port units of thNCFs;

monitor personnel distribution among the NCunits;

make recommendations to the EnlistePersonnel Distribution Office.

The basic organization and functions of a typicahome port NCRs staff are shown in figure 1-4.

NAVAL CONSTRUCTION FORCESUPPORT UNITS (NCFSUs)

The Naval Construction Force Support Unit(NCFSUs) provide logistical support for an NCR another supported NCF units. NCFSU equipment imaintained both in the active force and in the Reserv(PWRMs). The NCFSUs

perform inventory management of constructiomaterials, including requisitioning, expeditingreceipt, control, issue, delivery, and other suppl

support functions;

maintain inventory control;

operate and perform maintenance, repair, anupkeep of NCF auxiliary construction antransportation equipment;

perform specialized repair and overhaul oequipment components (such as transmissionelectric motors, and fuel injectors) wheconditions warrant a centralized operation;

provide the operation and maintenance capabilitfor plants, such as rock crushers and asphalt anconcrete batch plants, large paving machinelong-haul transportation, and other equipment

this type.

NAVAL MOBILE CONSTRUCTIONBATTALIONS

The Naval Mobile Construction Battalion(NMCBs) are primarily designed for construction anmilitary support operations to build advance bas

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Figure 1-5.The basic NMCB organization.

facilities in support of the armed forces. Figure 1-5

shows the basic NMCB organization. The function of

an NMCB also includes projects of repair and operation

of facilities and lines of communications during

emergencies or under conditions that demand

immediate action. When fully outfitted, NMCBs are

self-sufficient units for 90 days and require

Figure 1-6.The NMCB military organization.

replenishment of consumable items only. They candefend themselves for a limited time; communicateinternally; provide messing and billeting facilities; andperform the necessary administrative, personnel,medical, dental supply, and chaplain functions. TheNMCBs also participate in disaster recovery operationsduring both natural and man-made disasters.

Each battalion subdivision has a construction andmilitary support assignment, and every officer and

enlisted man fills a construction and military billet.Command channels are the same for both constructionand military support, permitting rapid transition fromone to the other.

The battalion is organized into one headquarters andfour construction/rifle companies: A, B, C, and D, asshown in figure 1-6.

The construction/rifle companies each have a

weapons platoon containing M60 machine guns andlightweight antitank weapons.

The headquarters company has a weapons platooncontaining the 60-mm mortars. (See fig. 1-7.) Allplatoons are organized into work squads that correspondto the weapons/rifle squad organization. Work crewsand work squads of construction platoons are also

trained as disaster control teams. Each battalion mayorganize the squads of each platoon to meet its particular

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Figure 1-7.Organization of military support in the headquarters company.


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needs. The construction/military companies retain theirnormal letter designation, and the platoons retain theirletter-number designation to facilitate reference,planning, and scheduling.

THE HEADQUARTERS COMPANY

The headquarters company of a Seabee battalionserves as the military and administrative organization

for the personnel assigned to the executive and specialstaffs of an NMCB. Headquarters company has thecapability of providing defense in a combat situation asa company unit and, in addition, acts as a reserve forcefor the battalion. The headquarters companys staff,when participating in a defensive situation, consists ofthe company commander, platoon commanders, acompany chief petty officer, and other administrativeassistants as required to organize it into two rifleplatoons and one weapons (mortar) platoon, as shownin figure 1-7.

Headquarters Company Commander

Normally assigned to additional duty on thebattalion staff, the headquarters company commander isresponsible for the following:

1. Command of the company in all militaryformations and operations

2. Asignment of personnel on the watch, quarter,and station bill

3. Personnel muster

4. Supervision and coordination of military andleadership training

5. Administration and guidance in professional

and technical training

6. Berthing, messing, mail distribution, andphysical fitness

7. Division officer responsibilities, unless separatedivision officers are assigned

He is also responsible for the security and defenseof the battalions command post and acts as the reserve

force commander for the battalion in the defense. He isarmed with the .45-caliber pistol.

Platoon Commanders

All personnel assigned to the battalions executiveand special staffs are administratively assigned toheadquarters company. Therefore, the headquarters

platoon commanders are normally officers of theadministration and personnel department, theoperations department, and the supply and logisticsdepartment. However, most battalions generally use achief petty officer (E-7) from each department to act inthe capacity of platoon commander.

The platoon commander is responsible for training,discipline, control, and tactical deployment of hisplatoon. He carries out the orders of the company

commander and controls his platoon through his squadleaders. In combat, the platoon commander positionshimself where he can readily control his squad leaders.At the same time, he remains in contact with hiscompany commander. He is generally linked with thecompany commander by radio and field telephone orboth, and is armed with the service pistol.

Headquarters Company

Chief Petty Officer

The headquarters company chief petty officer canbe a chief petty officer (E-7) or a senior chief pettyofficer (E-8), and serves as an assistant to theheadquarters company commander in a staff capacity.The headquarters company CPO is directly responsibleto the company commander for the administration andefficient operation of the company. He is alsoresponsible for the discipline, training, and performanceof the men assigned to the company and is armed withthe service pistol.

THE RIFLE COMPANYHEADQUARTERS

The company headquarters of a Seabee companyconsists of the company commander, an assistantcompany commander when assigned, the companychief, a company guidon, a company clerk a companymessenger, and other administrative assistants asrequired. The company headquarters varies somewhatin each company, depending on its construction/combatmissions. Figure 1-8 shows the organization of militarysupport in the construction/rifle companies.

Rifle Company Commander

The rifle company commander is usually a

lieutenant in the Civil Engineer Corps who isresponsible for commanding his company by following

the policies of the commanding officer.

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Figure 1-8.Organization of military support in the construction rifle companies.


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Assistant Rifle CompanyCommander

The assistant rifle company commander, whenassigned, may be a junior CEC officer or a seniorenlisted man. He is normally placed in a position of lineauthority and responsibility between the companycommander and the platoon commanders. As apersonnel and material manager within the company, he

concerns himself with executing and enforcing thepolicies of the company commander and thecommanding officer. The assistant rifle companycommander supervises the administration of thecompany; plans and gives technical support to theplatoon commanders about their crew assignments,

project planning and scheduling, safety, and training. Heis armed with the service pistol.

Rifle Company Chief

The rifle company chief is the senior enlisted man

assigned to the company, usually a senior chief pettyofficer (E-8) or a master chief petty officer (E-9). He isthe primary administrative assistant and technicaladvisor to the company commander. The rifle companychief is directly responsible to the company commanderfor the administration and efficient operation of thecompany and for the discipline, training, and theperformance of the men assigned to the company. He isarmed with the service pistol.

Rifle Company Guidon

The rifle company guidon, generally a petty officerfirst class (E-6), acts as a construction expediter andsupply coordinator for the company. During combat, heis stationed near the company commander and isresponsible for the distribution of ammunition to theplatoon guides. He coordinates the ammunition countsfollowing combat to ensure appropriate redistribution.He is armed with the service pistol.

Rifle Company Clerk

The rifle company clerk is normally a

constructionman (E-3) with clerical experience. Hisduties consist of preparing company memorandums,typing, filing, and many other administrative tasks. Heis also the company mail orderly. During militaryoperations, he becomes the company staffcommunicator and must be familiar with the operationand care of the company communications equipment. Inaddition, he is trained in proper procedures for

transmitting reports and messages. The rifle companyclerk also may serve as guidon (company banner) bearerduring parade formation. He is armed with the M16service rifle.

Rifle Company Messenger

Generally, a constructionman (E-3) is assigned to

the company headquarters as a rifle companymessenger. He primarily performs in this capacity onlyduring military operations. For work purposes, he isassigned to a work crew/rifle fire team. Although hedelivers most of his messages on foot, he is also trainedin the operation of communications equipment so he cantake over should the rifle company clerk become acasualty. When the company administrative tasksincrease, as they do during home port training periods,the rifle company messenger may assist the riflecompany clerk with his duties. He is armed with theservice rifle.

THE RIFLE PLATOON HEADQUARTERS

The maneuvering elements of a rifle company arethe rifle platoons. A Seabee rifle platoon consists of aplatoon headquarters and three or more rifle squads.Each rifle squad is composed of three or more workcrew/rifle fire teams. The primary combat mission of therifle company, as well as the rifle platoon, is to repel theenemy assault by fire and close combat.

Each rifle platoon headquarters consists of a platooncommander, platoon petty officer, platoon guide,communicator, and a messenger.

Rifle Platoon Commander

The rifle platoon commander is generally a chiefpetty officer (E-7). Normally, he is the projectsupervisor. He is responsible for the training, discipline,control, and tactical deployment of his platoon. The rifleplatoon commander carries out the orders of the

company commander and controls his platoon throughhis squad leaders. In combat, the rifle platooncommander positions himself where he can readilycontrol his squad leaders and, at the same time, remainin contact with his company commander. The rifleplatoon commander is generally linked with thecompany commander by either radio or field telephoneor both. He is armed with the service pistol.

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Rifle Platoon Petty Officer

The rifle platoon petty officer, generally a first class

petty officer (E-6), is the next senior man in the platoon

and is second in command. As such, he performs all

duties assigned by the rifle platoon commander and

stands ready to assume command in his absence. On the

job, he will assist in project supervision. In combat, he

assists in all aspects of supevision and control of theplatoon. The rifle platoon petty officer positions himself

where he can hear the commands of the rifle platoon

commander but far enough away to avoid becoming a

casualty should the rifle platoon commander be hit. The

rifle platoon petty officer is also armed with the service

pistol .

Rifle Platoon Guide

The rifle platoon guide is generally a first class petty

officer (E-6) who performs the administrative functionsthe rifle platoon commander may direct. He is directly

responsible to the rifle platoon commander for the

supply and timely resupply of the platoon in combat and

often performs a similar task on the jobsite. He also

maintains the platoon casualty record. While the platoon

is moving in training or in combat operations, the rifle

platoon guide helps prevent straggling. He is armed with

the service rifle.

Rifle Platoon Communicator

and Messenger

These men are generally constructionmen (E-3);

and during normal construction, they are assigned to

work a crew/rif le f ire team. The rif le platoon

communicator and messenger, in combat, provide

c o m m u n i c a t i o n s b e t w e e n t h e r i f l e c o m p a n y

headquarters and the rifle platoon commander and also

between the rifle platoon, its squads, and attached units.

The rifle platoon communicator uses radio or telephone

communication methods, while the rifle platoon

messenger generally travels on foot. Both are armed

with service rifles.

THE RIFLE SQUAD

The Seabee rifle squad is composed of a squad

leader, three fire teams and a grenadier. Ideally, the rifle

squad will contain three fire teams of four men each, a

grenadier, and the squad leader for a total of 14 men.

Squad Leader

The squad leader is generally a first class petty

officer (E-6). He carries out the orders of the platoon

commander and is responsible to him for the discipline

appearance, training, control, and conduct of his squad

at all times. He must pay particular attention to the care

and maintenance of the weapons and equipment of the

squad. In combat, he has the important responsibilitiesof fire discipline, fire control, and maneuvering hi

squad. He takes a position where he can best observe

and control his squad and carry out the orders of the

platoon commander. He controls his squad by voice and

visual commands. The squad leader is primarily a

leader; therefore, he only fires his own weapon in critica

situations. He is armed with the service rifle.

Grenadier

The grenadier, generally a third class petty officer

(E-4), carries out the orders of the squad leader and isresponsible to him for the effective care, maintenance

and employment of his weapon-the M203 grenade

launcher. In combat, the grenadier always moves with

or is close to the squad leader. Usually, another E-4 in

the squad is trained to replace the grenadier should he

become a casualty. On the jobsite, the grenadier has no

special authority unless specifically designated.

THE RIFLE FIRE TEAM

The rifle fire team is the basic combat unit of the

rifle squad and is formed around the automatic rifle

which is an M16 service rifle, with the selector leve

always turned to frilly automatic. The fire team normally

consists of four men, although it may contain as few as

three and as many as seven men. All members are armed

with the M16 service rifle. The four basic members are

the following:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Fire team leader

Automatic rifleman

Rifleman number 1

Rifleman number 2

Fire Team Leader

The fire team leader, generally a second class petty

officer (E-5), carries out the orders of his squad leade

and is responsible to him for the effective employmen

of his fire team. His primary responsibility is to contro

his fire team in combat. In addition, he is responsible fo

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the care and condition of the weapons and equipment ofthe fire team. The fire team leader stations himself wherehe can best control the fire of the automatic rifles of theteam. He usually controls his men through real andvisual communications, since there are normally noradio or telephone communications below the platooncommanders level. Although he is armed with theservice rifle, his primary duty as a leader comes first;

and he serves as a rifleman only when absolutelynecessary. The senior fire team leader serves as assistantsquad leader and is prepared to take over the squad inthe event that the squad leader becomes a casualty.

Automatic Rifleman

The automatic rifleman, generally a third class pettyofficer (E-4), provides heavy firepower and is thebackbone of the fire team. He is responsible to the fireteam leader for the effective employment of hisautomatic rifle as well as its condition and care. The

automatic rifleman acts as the fire team leadersassistant and takes over in his absence.

Rifleman Number 1

Rifleman number 1, generally a constructionman(E-3), carries extra ammunition for the automaticrifleman. The automatic rifle must be kept in action atall times; if the automatic rifleman becomes a casualty,rifleman number 1 moves up and replaces him. Inaddition, rifleman number 1 is armed with the servicerifle and acts as a rifleman and a scout. He assistsrifleman number 2 in protecting the flank (exposed side)of the fire team.

Rifleman Number 2

Rifleman number 2, a constructionman (E-3) or anapprentice (E-2), serves as a rifleman and protects theflank of the fire team. He is point man for all teamformations and may also serve as a scout. If more thanfour men are assigned to the fire team, the additionalmen have the same general duties as rifleman number

2. All are armed with the service rifle.

FIRE SUPPORT ELEMENTS

The fire support elements of the rifle companies arethe weapons platoons, the 60-mm mortar platoon of theheadquarters company, and the weapons platoonsfurnished by the construction/rifle companies. Theirpurpose is to provide the companies organic machine

gun and mortar fire support and an antitank defense withthe antitank weapon (AT4).

THE WEAPONS PLATOONS

Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta companies eachhave a weapons platoon composed of a platoon

headquarters, two machine gun squads, and an antitanksquad.

Weapons Platoon Headquarters

The weapons platoon headquarters consists of theplatoon commander, platoon petty officer, ammunitiontechnician/guide, a communicator and a messenger.

WEAPONS PLATOON COMMANDER. Theweapons platoon commander is generally a chief pettyofficer (E-7). He is responsible for the training, combatefficiency, discipline, administration, and welfare of hisplatoon. He also sees to it that his platoon membersproceed correctly when carrying out preventivemaintenance on their weapons. The weapons platooncommander makes sure they use their weapons andequipment economically. All of his otherresponsibilities are similar to those discussed for therifle platoon commander. He is armed with the servicepistol.

WEAPONS PLATOON PETTY OFFICER.

The weapons platoon petty officer is usually a first classpetty officer (E-6). His responsibilities and duties areidentical to those of the rifle platoon petty officer. He isarmed with the service pistol.

AMMUNITION TECHNICIAN/GUIDE. Theammunition technician/guide is also a first class pettyofficer (E-6). He not only has the responsibility ofsupplying the platoon and keeping the casualty list buthe also must be highly skilled in the operation andmaintenance of the machine guns used by his platoon.He must be familiar with the many types of ammunition

used by the machine guns, its safe use, and its effectupon the enemy. The ammunition technician/guidesother duties are similar to those of the rifle platoonguide. He is armed with the service rifle.

COMMUNICATOR AND MESSENGER. Thecommunicator and the messenger, both usually

constructionmen (E-3), perform the same basic dutiesas their counterparts in the rifle platoon. They are armedwith the service rifle.

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Machine Gun Squad

The machine gun squad consists of a machine gunsquad leader and two four-man machine gun teams.They work together under the supervision of the

crew/squad leader.

MACHINE GUN SQUAD LEADER. Themachine gun squad leader, generally a first class petty

officer (E-6), has the same basic duties as the rifle squadleader. In addition, he selects and assigns exact positions

and targets for his machine guns within the areadesignated by his platoon commander. The machine gun

squad leader is armed with the service rifle and alsocarries binoculars and a compass.

MACHINE GUN TEAM. The machine gun team

consists of a team leader, a gunner, and two ammunition

carriers. This team operates and services the machinegun.

Machine Gun Team Leader. The machine gun

team leader, generally a second class petty officer (E-5),is responsible to the squad leader for the effective

employment (fire power) of the machine gun for histeam. He carries and places the machine gun tripod foraction. He also carries one bandolier (belt with pocketsto carry machine gun ammunition). During combat, themachine gun team leader is responsible for changing the

machine gun barrel, so he carries a kit that contains anextra gun barrel and a combination wrench. He is armedwith a service pistol.

Gunner. The gunner does the actual firing of the

machine gun in combat as directed by the team leader.He carries the machine gun, one bandolier of machinegun ammunition, and is armed with a service pistol.Also, he must be able to maintain his machine gun.Generally, the gunner is a third class petty officer (E-4).

Ammunition Carrier Number 1. The ammuni-tion carrier number 1, generally a constructionman

(E-3), acts as the supply man for the team. He carriesone box of machine gun ammunition (200 rounds) andthe spare barrel case with the traversing and elevating(T&E) mechanism. Ammunition carrier number 1 is

armed with the service rifle. When not actually engagedin carrying machine gun ammunition, he protects theflank of the machine gun team.

Ammunition Carrier Number 2. Ammunitioncarrier number 2, generally a construction apprentice(E-2), carries two boxes of machine gun ammunition(400 rounds). He is armed with the service rifle and alsoprotects the machine gun team.

Antitank (AT4) Squad

The antitank squad consists of two three-man teamwhose principle mission is defense against armoredvehicles (tanks).

ANTITANK SQUAD LEADER. The antitanksquad leader, generally a first class petty officer (E-6)has the same basic duties as any other squad leader. In

addition, he selects and assigns the exact positions andtargets for his antitank weapons within the areas definedby his platoon commander. He is armed with the servicerifle, and he carries binoculars and a compass.

ANTITANK TEAM. The antitank team consistof three men carrying five AT4s each. These men arealso armed with service rifles.

THE 60-MM MORTAR PLATOON

The NMCBs 60-mm mortar platoons can providefire support during an assault or during defense. It isextremely effective in defending an establishedcampsite against attacking ground forces and is oftenused to provide illumination during night operationsSince the mortar is a relatively heavy weapon, it is nooften carried about during normal work operationsPermanent positions are generally set up in the basecamp area near the battalion administrative area. As themajor portion of the headquarters company personneremain in camp during normal working hours, they arealways available to man the mortars. This is the reasonthat the mortar platoon is normally assigned toheadquarters company.

The standard mortar platoon consists of a platoonheadquarters and four mortar squads of two crews eachAt present, however, the NMCBs are only authorizedfour 60-mm mortars in the weapons allowanceTherefore, the mortar platoons of an NMCB at thepresent time have two squads of two crews each.

Mortar Platoon Headquarters

The mortar platoon headquarters consists of thplatoon commander, assistant platoon commander

ammunition technician, and a minimum of twocommunicators.

MORTAR PLATOON COMMANDER. Themortar platoon commander may be either a junioofficer or a chief petty officer (E-7), preferably from thengineering department. He has the same general dutieas any other platoon commander. However, duringactual combat operations, he takes up a position in th

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fire direction center (FDC). The FDC can be a separatebunker, generally located in the battalion commandpost. In the FDC, he receives fire missions from hisforward observers (FOs) or from other commands. Hethen plots the targets on the plotting board to check theiraccuracy and determine the exact coordinates. Afterreceiving permission to fire from the commandingofficer, he issues fire commands to his squad leaders.The platoon commander is armed with the service pistol.

ASSISTANT MORTAR PLATOON COM-MANDER. The assistant mortar platoon commander,normally a first class petty officer (E-6), must always beprepared to assume command of the platoon. Duringcombat, he takes up a position in the alternate commandpost and stands ready to take command of the platoonshould the battalion command post be destroyed. He isarmed with the service pistol.

MORTAR PLATOON AMMUNITION TECH-NICIAN. The mortar platoon ammunition technician,usually a first class petty officer (E-6), has the sameresponsibilities of supply, weapons maintenance, andcasualty reporting as the weapons platoon ammunitiontechnician. He is armed with the service rifle.

MORTAR PLATOON COMMUNICATORS.The mortar platoon communicators, generallyconstructionmen (E-3), are trained as a team and mustbe completely familiar with fire commands and

procedures. Whenever possible, one communicator isstationed with each forward observer. He passes targetinformation back to another communicator in the FDCby radio. After the fire missions are assigned by theplatoon commander, the FDC communicator passes the

proper fire commands to the respective squad leaders byfield telephone. All communicators are armed withservice rifles.

Mortar Section

The mortar section consists of 11 men, a sectionleader, and 2 mortar crews of 4 men each, a forwardobserver, and a communicator.

MORTAR SECTION LEADER. The mortarsection leader is usually a first class petty officer (E-6).

He is responsible to the platoon commander for theeffective employment of his two gun crews. The sectionleader selects the exact position for placement of themortar tubes. He supervises their placement and zeroingin. He is armed with the service rifle. The mortars aregenerally placed about 50 yards apart to help reducecasualties. The section leader normally takes up a

position midway between and to the rear of the mortar

positions. If possible, he is connected by telephone tohis mortar gun crews and to the platoon commander inthe FDC.

FORWARD OBSERVER. The forward observeris usually a second class petty officer (E-5). He isnormally the second senior man in the mortar squad. Heis the eyes of the mortar team and has the primarymission of locating suitable targets, and calling for andadjusting fire on these targets. He is armed with the

service rifle.MORTAR GUN CREWS. Each mortar gun crew

consists of four men. These men are called the crewleader/gunner, assistant gunner, ammunition carriernumber 1, and ammunition carrier number 2.

Crew Leader/Gunner. The crew leader/gunner,usually a second class petty officer (E-5), is responsiblefor the correct sighting of the weapon. He receives thetarget coordinates from the squad leader and makes thenecessary safety checks and adjustment to the weaponHe is armed with the service pistol.

Assistant Gunner. The assistant gunner, generallya third class petty officer (E-4), checks the mortar barrelfor cleanliness, assists the gunner in positioning thebarrel, and loads the weapon on command. The weaponautomatically fires upon loading. He is also armed withthe service pistol.

Ammunition Carrier Number 1. Ammunitioncarrier number 1, generally a constructionman (E-3),prepares the ammunition for firing and passes it to theassistant gunner. In addition, he realigns the aimingstakes under the direction of the gunner. He is armed

with the service rifle.Ammunition Carrier Number 2. Ammunition

carrier number 2, also a nonrated man (E-3 or E-2)assists in placing the mortar. He maintains theammunition supply for the mortar and helps prepare therounds for firing. He is also armed with the service rifle.

LAWS OF WAR

The laws of armed conflict are the concern of every

member of the armed forces: soldiers, sailors, airmen,

marines, and yes, even Seabees. Because of theimportant sound of the term laws of armed conflict, youmay think that only people, such as the Chief of NavalOperations, the Secretary of the Navy, the Secretary ofDefense, and the President, concern themselves with therules of war. While individuals such as these from manycountries have, over the years, drafted the basicdocuments governing mans treatment of his fellowman

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in wartime, the laws of armed conflict remain the directconcern of every serviceman.

The principles behind the laws of armed conflict can

be stated in the following question: How should you,an individual Seabee, conduct yourself in wartimeoperations to accomplish your mission while stillrespecting the rights of civilians, your enemies, and yourallies? This chapter provides you with some basicinformation on what to do and, just as important, whatnot to do in wartime situations.

WHY WE NEED LAWS IN WAR

Unfortunately, war is as old as man himself. Peoplecause wars; weapons do not. Man creates the weaponsthat are merely the instruments that a nation uses to carry

out its war objectives. Genghis Khan, the ancient Asianwarlord, killed or maimed a greater percentage of peoplethan any other leader in history. He did it with bows andarrows and other similar primitive weapons. During

Genghis Khans era, there were no rules of war.Although man continues today to be the force behindthe weapons, there exists now a certain orderliness towhich people of most countries who find themselves ona battlefield subscribe.

The positive side of mankind has managed toimprove the conditions under which war is conductedsince the era of Genghis Khan. As newer weapons ofwarfare have made it easier for man to kill hisfellowman, nations have sensed a need to eliminateunnecessary death, destruction, and suffering. This need

has been reflected in the moral values of civilized manand also in his military policies.

Binding customs and formal laws of war, presentedin the Geneva conventions and The Hague regulations,have evolved. They legally bind most nations to thepractices set down at Geneva and The Hague. TheUnited States has agreed to these rules. Any violation ofthem is the same as a violation of the laws of the UnitedStates itself. The United States has led the world inadopting rules for its military forces. These rulesrecognize that enemies are also human beings and thatcaptured or detained people are entitled to retain their

fundamental rights as humans regardless of their pastconduct or beliefs. Every Seabee has the duty, therefore,to know and obey the laws of armed conflict.

History shows that discipline and high morale ledour military forces to victory in battle after battle. Thesesame characteristics apply to obedience to the laws ofarmed conflict. Although you will be in uniform and bean instrument of a nation state (the United States) in an

armed conflict, this does not give you license to doanything you wish to do. There are limits on what youcan do when waging war, and those limits areestablished by the laws of armed conflict. This chapterexplains what you can and cannot do.

GENERAL PRECEPTS OF THELAWS OF ARMED CONFLICT

When you enter into armed conflict in anothercountry, you should be aware of many of thecharacteristics of the country. Knowledge of thesecharacteristics will better prepare you to follow thetenets of the laws of armed conflict.

Geography

A general understanding of the geography of anation will help you to know where the population othe country is concentrated. That knowledge shouldprepare you to deal with civilians and the enemy as you

encounter them. In addition, you should know thegeneral area of the country in which you are operatingand the nations that border it. This knowledge may helpyou in understanding any trends that may have an effecon carrying out the laws of anneal conflict. You shouldknow the capital city and the other major cities, thecharacteristics of the land (mountains, deserts, plainsetc.), and the climate. Knowledge of all these featureswill help you to deal with rules of war situations thamight arise during your time in the country. You shouldreceive information about the general characteristics othe geography of a nation as part of instructiona

briefings given in operational deployments.

People

Knowledge of the people in a country can beinvaluable to you in how to conduct yourself under therules of war. Since nearly all offenses under the laws oarmed conflict involve people, the more you know abouthe civilian populace of a country and of your enemythe better off you will be. Know their ethnicbackgrounds, their language, the educational level of thepeople, the important cultural characteristics

(particularly if they are different than the culture of theUnited States), the religions of the country, and thesocial customs of the people.

Knowledge of the people is probably the mosimportant thing for you to know about the countryWithout it, you cannot begin to understand the way thepeople think and act. Accordingly, the chances of doingsomething in violation of the rules of war increase. I

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the enemy and the people are one and the same, then thequestions posed above will serve for both. If not, youneed to ask the same questions about the enemy. Youmust know both the military and nonmilitarycharacteristics of the enemy.

History

There is no need for you to know the long and

detailed history of a country, except as it relates to whyyou are there. Historical circumstances involvingpolitics, religion, or cultural values may have led to yourbeing in the country. You need to have knowledge of,and be sensitive to, the historical circumstancesdictating U.S. Armed Forces involvement in the country.Pay attention when you receive briefings on thesematters. Read what you can find on the subject(newspapers, periodicals, etc.). Knowing the history ofthe country as it relates to your involvement may serveyou well if a situation exists where you have to decidewhat action(s) to take in a wartime situation under the

laws of armed conflict.

Economy

Is the country poor or wealthy? Does it have wealthconcentrated in a few people and enormous pockets ofpoverty among the general populace? You needanswers to these questions because such conditions maycontribute to the way you deal with the people and theenemy of the country. Current economic conditions arealso important. (These conditions include growth,inflation, deflation, unemployment, poverty, etc.).

Knowledge of the economic condition of a country canlead to an understanding of how the people and theenemy of the country might behave toward you. It mightalso assist you in preventing a violation of the rules ofwar.

Foreign Relations

Knowing the alliances, Allies, traditional enemies(if any), and the role of the country in internationalorganizations (for example, the United Nations) canprovide you with an understanding of what to expect.

Will the country comply with the laws of armed conflictthat you fight under, or can you expect behavior contraryto your training?

Government

Knowing something about the nature of the national

government in a country may better prepare you to

understand the nature and conduct of your enemy as well

as the civilian populace, Is the government of the

country bound by the Geneva conventions and TheHague resolutions? Will the government prosecute youfor a crime against civilians or against the enemy for a

violation of the rules of war? Even if the governmentdoes not comply with the rules of war in any way, yourobligation as a Seabee is to conduct yourself under thelaws of armed conflict that you are taught.

RELATIONS OF THE UNITED

STATES WITH THE COUNTRY

The relations of the United States with the countrythat you are entering may be good, bad, or somewhere

between these two extremes. The government of thecountry may want the Seabees to be there, but some ofits people may not. You may encounter situations oractions from the enemy, from the government, or fromthe general population that will try your patience. They

may treat you as Yankee, Go Home! If so, you mustmaintain your self-control and not violate the principles

you have learned under the laws of armed conflict. You

should be familiar with our relations with the country

you are entering. This knowledge can serve you well in

preventing the creation of a situation where you mightviolate the rules of war.

Basically, what you have just read can be summedup in eight words: Know the country into which you are

going. That is as important as knowing terrain features

and enemy tactics.Along with knowledge of the country in which you

are operating, make sure you understand your missionfully. Because while conducting your mission, a

situation may develop where you will have an

opportunity to succeed or fail in your practice of the laws

of armed conflict.

When you complete this chapter, you should have

sufficient knowledge of what to do and what not to dounder most combat situations. This knowledge protects

you from violating the laws of armed conflict. When you

encounter a situation where you are unsure of what

action(s) to take in carrying out your mission, get

clearance from the next higher authority before

continuing. For example, when military action by you

might endanger the lives of some local civilians and you

are not sure how to proceed, be certain to get approvalfor your next action from the next higher authority.

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YOUR CONDUCT UNDER THELAWS OF ARMED CONFLICT

The laws of armed conflict tell you what you canand cannot do in combat situations. With the trainingyou receive, you will have the necessary discipline to dothe right thing. But if you do not learn how to conductyourself in combat, you will be punished for mistakes.

All persons in uniform, carrying a weapon or

participating in any way in military operations oractivities, are known as combatants. Under the laws ofarmed conflict, only combatants are considered propertargets and may be fired upon. All others are callednoncombatants. Noncombatants include civilians,medical personnel, and chaplains. Knowing thedifference between combatants and noncombatants inguerrilla war situations may sometimes be difficult andrequire great care. Humane treatment of noncombatantsmay help you in obtaining valuable intelligence to betterpursue your mission. If you are in doubt about the

differences between combatants and noncombatants,consult your superior before pursuing a course of action.

Enemy Combatants

Never attack enemy soldiers who surrender orenemy soldiers who are captured, sick, or wounded.When you have prisoners of war (POWs), you shouldfollow the six Ss: search, secure, silence, segregate,safeguard, and speed the prisoners to the rear. You mustnever kill, torture, or mistreat a prisoner because such

actions are a violation of the law. Besides, prisoners mayprovide you with vital information about

Documents

Seabee Combat Handbook Vol 1