By Dusty Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach
GULFPORT, Miss.- “We Build, We Fight” has been the motto of the U. S. Navy’s Construction Force, known as the “Seabees”, for the past 74 years. Today, Fort Worth, Texas native and a 1985 Everman High School graduate Petty Officer 1st Class Eloise Chambers builds and fights with the Navy on the Gulf Coast and around the world as a member of the Navy serving at Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport.
Gulfport is the command headquarters that oversees all naval construction forces based in the eastern half of the U.S. Land for the Naval Construction Battalion Center at Gulfport was acquired in April 1942, the same year the “Seabee” name was adopted for members of the Construction Battalions, a clever play on the CB initials.
Chambers is responsible for administrative work.
“I like that my job allows me to take care of other people,” said Chambers. “I make sure their pay is right, their records are right, their evaluations are correct and they are mission ready.”
“Seabees are some the hardest working Sailors in the Navy,” said Captain Cheryl M. Hansen, NCBC commanding officer. “They are tough, bold, and ready, and they get the job done. They build and fight in some of the harshest and most hostile environments in the world.”
For the past 74 years Seabees have served in all American conflicts. They have also supported humanitarian efforts, using their construction skills to help communities around the world following earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters.
“I like that the Seabee’s are flexiable,” said Chambers. “They have to be extremely flexable to be able to have mission success.”
Seabees around the world will take part in a year-long celebration in 2017 to commemorate the group’s 75-year anniversary. The theme of the celebration is “Built on History, Constructing the Future.”
Today, Seabees continue their innovative traditions ensuring they always meet fast-paced challenges, according to Hansen.
Working with the Seabees and serving in the U.S. Navy has allowed Chambers to continue learning about the legacy she wants to leave to future sailors.
“The Navy has really shown me the importance of family,” said Chambers. “You have to be able to make a family wherever you go.”
