📋 Tender Overview
Operating with precision, efficiency, and self-sufficiency, the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 133 embodies a spirit of tirelessly building, repairing, and sustaining the infrastructure that keeps Joint Task Force Southern Guard (JTF-SG) running.
“From the moment Operation Southern Guard began, the NMCB 133 Seabees have been an indispensable force, working behind the scenes on projects both big and small,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Dexter Buchanan, JTF-SG deputy engineer. “Whether constructing essential facilities, repairing infrastructure, or fabricating solutions on the fly, these naval engineers are the foundation of mission success.”
Much like worker bees sustaining a hive, the Seabees have created their own fully functional operational hub within Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Their lightweight water purification system allows them to generate their own potable water, reducing logistical strain and ensuring sustainability in remote environments. Their on-site material liaison ensures they have the resources they need without relying on external support.
“The ability of the Seabees to operate independently has significantly eased the burden on JTF-SG's engineering and logistical resources,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Alexander Watson, NMCB 133 detachment officer in charge. “This autonomy allows for an increased operational tempo, enabling the JTF to focus on its own sustainment while simultaneously providing assistance for the Seabees with Class IV. We are able to focus on mission-critical tasks without relying on external assistance.”
Additionally, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Tanner Robinson, the team’s sole medical professional, serves as the first line of medical care for the Seabees, handling everything from minor injuries to routine health concerns.
"I’m the only one here who can provide medical care for our team," Robinson said. "I can administer medications, conduct physical exams, test water quality, and I’m on call 24/7. If a Seabee needs medical attention, I’m the first stop."
Equipped with surgical tools and minor surgical kits, Robinson can perform sutures, apply Dermabond, or use staples depending on the location and severity of an injury. However, for more advanced care such as X-rays or specialized treatments, he works closely with the 36th Medical Company Area Support (MCAS)-operated Role II medical facility.
"If it’s something beyond my scope, the MCAS personnel step in to facilitate advanced care," Robinson said. "I recently had to use their services, and they were incredibly accommodating. We have a great working relationship, and it ensures that our Seabees get the care they need."
Beyond their independent projects, the Seabees have seamlessly integrated with U.S. Army units, demonstrating the true meaning of joint operations. Working alongside Soldiers from the 119th Inland Cargo Transfer Company (ICTC), the two units have developed a strong working relationship built on mutual support and cooperation.
ICTC Soldiers have been assisting the Seabees by using their Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacements (MTVRs) to move heavy equipment and supplies across the installation, ensuring that materials are delivered efficiently to project sites. In return, the Seabees have used their expertise to enhance the quality of life for the ICTC Soldiers, constructing gym weight racks so they can maintain their physical readiness while deployed.
"The partnership between our unit and the Seabees has been incredible," said Cpl. Rashaun Dorsey, a cargo specialist assigned to the 119th ICTC. "We communicate well and help each other accomplish our goals. We’re making it work as much as we can."
The Seabees’ ability to contribute beyond their traditional mission speaks to their adaptability and dedication, not just to construction and engineering but also to fostering teamwork and camaraderie across the joint force. For the ICTC Soldiers, having a gym setup closer to their work site has been a game-changer.
"A lot of us work out regularly, but we’re constantly working and don’t have time to travel across the bay every day to get to the gym," Dorsey said. "Since they built the gym racks, we’ve been able to keep up with our training routine without missing a beat."
According to U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Ryan McPhall, NMCB 133 operations chief, this is not the first time the Seabees have used their skills to improve the well-being of their fellow service members in a joint environment.
"It’s been a 'scratch my back, I scratch yours' kind of relationship," McPhall explained. "Every deployment, we help out by building something small, and in return, they open up opportunities for us like going on morale flights or using their Fit Boxes. It’s a way to support each other, and it’s what makes joint operations work so well."
