NAVFAC Misawa Seabees renovating local recreation center

Photo By Petty Officer 3rd Class Jean Baker | Builder Constructionman Nickolas Picard, originally from Catlettsburg, Ky., removes sheet rock with a hammer and crowbar while performing renovations at the Davy Jones Locker recreation center May 2, 2013. The entire renovation project is being completed by Misawa Seabees on board Naval Air Facility Misawa. This U.S. naval installation is located in northern Japan, and is home to more than 1,500 sailors, Department of Defense employees, and family members. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Mass Communication Specialist Jean Baker/Released)  

NAVAL AIR FACILITY MISAWA, AOMORI, JAPAN

05.10.2013

Story by Seaman Jean Baker 

Naval Air Facility Misawa

NAVAL AIR FACILITY MISAWA, Japan – Navy Seabees, attached to Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Far East Detachment Misawa, began Phase II renovation of a recreation center at Naval Air Facility Misawa, May 10, 2013.

The Misawa Seabees are solely handling renovations on the Davy Jones Locker recreation center on board this U.S. military installation located in northern Japan.

Normally these renovations are handled by independent contractors, but this restoration project could save a projected $80,000 in labor costs and an estimated $40,000 in materials by utilizing Seabee power and ingenuity.

"Here in Misawa it has not been common for the Seabees to take on a project of this scope," said Chief Builder Christopher Knox. "In recent years, Seabees have played a vital part in the war on terrorism, and normally we wouldn't have had the time or resources to do this sort of peacetime construction project. However, our role in the global arena is constantly changing so we are taking full advantage of this opportunity.”

Since renovations began, April 8, the Seabees have completely overhauled the interior and are making the facility more modern for future patrons.

"The facility was really in need of restoration and modernization. It has been on our to-do list for quite some time," said Knox, a native of Chapin, Ill. "In addition, there was a need for some safety upgrades, so we decided to go ahead and task the Seabees with a complete refurbishment.”

The Seabees were able to take on this project largely due an increase in their manning.

"With the force realignment, we have an influx of military personnel, and we were looking for projects that best utilized their particular skill sets. The Davy Jones Locker opportunity worked out perfectly," said Knox.

Thus the project has been both enjoyable and beneficial for the Misawa Seabees.

"This is a fun job," said Builder Constructionman Nickolas Picard, originally from Catlettsburg, Ky., "I’ve really enjoyed working with everyone, and getting to see the fruits of our labor. It makes me feel good to know that people are excited to see the renovations and be here once they're complete."

Barring setbacks, the Seabees are working hard to get Misawa’s beloved recreation center reopened amidst the summer months. Once complete, Knox says the Seabees are looking to immediately move onto the next big project.

"These renovations are just the tip of the iceberg," said Knox. "We are currently in discussion with the Air Force 35th Civil Engineer Squadron to take on additional projects within the Misawa community.”

For more news from Naval Air Facility Misawa, check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nafmisawa.

• Date Taken: 05.10.2013
• Date Posted: 05.10.2013 05:40
• Story ID: 106707
• Location: NAVAL AIR FACILITY MISAWA, AOMORI, JP
• Hometown: CATLETTSBURG, KY, US
• Hometown: CHAPIN, IL, US