CONSTANTA, Romania - Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 74, Detail Romania, are less than a month away from completing a building renovation in Constanta, Romania, supporting Special Operations Command Europe’s Jackal Stone exercise.

Since April 14, a detail of 26 Seabees has been renovating a multi-wing, five-story facility for use by SOCEUR and U.S. Department of Defense personnel. According to Senior Chief Petty Officer Shawn Hollister, Detail Romania assistant officer-in-charge, the 30-year old facility was in a critical state, almost to the point of being condemned.

“When we arrived the Romanian Navy was using the facility, and as we began construction several sailors were moved,” said Hollister. “After the work is completed the facility will be functional and sanitary once again. Not only will the Romanian navy be able to occupy more of their spaces, but they will be able to take more pride in their building.”

A complete rehabilitation of the facility is underway, including new plumbing, heating and air conditioning, electrical systems and tile, as well as repairing stucco walls and hanging new doors. Thirty years of settling resulted in uneven floors and deteriorated walls in the facility. According to Detail Romania Officer-in-Charge, Lt. j.g. Tommy Vaughn, this presented the biggest challenge for the crew.

“It was rewarding to be able to overcome the challenges that the unique features of the building presented us with, and to know we did it through strong leadership, teamwork and every Seabee taking pride in their job,” said Vaughn.

The renovations are scheduled to be complete before Jackal Stone 2011 commences in Romania later this year. The key purpose of Jackal Stone is to concert actions for special operations by joint forces, and to share experience gained during exercises and missions.

“Once the construction is complete SOCEUR will have a completely renovated facility where the Romanians and partner countries can train, berth and dine free of charge,” said Vaughn.

Hollister said he feels that their “Seabee spirit” has greatly enhanced multinational relations, and he believes that future exercises will be positively impacted by the indelible mark left by the Seabees. He gave the credit for that success to his crew.

“The E-5 and below are really the rock stars of this mission. All the planning, direct supervision and effort have been a reflection of small unit leadership. I am very proud of the fact that these Seabees will not only leave a beautifully restored building behind them, but have left the impact of a Seabee legacy that will last a lifetime,” said Hollister.

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