NMCB 3 develops vital communication skills, prepares to deploy

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Fahey | Petty Officer 2nd Class (SCW) Eric Wood assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 explains tactics his patrol will use during a Command Post Exercise at Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, Calif., Nov. 28. CPX exercises increase tactical communication and unit survivability during combat operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Utilitiesman 3rd Class (SCW) Jennifer Stewart, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 Public Affairs.)  

PORT HUENEME, CA, UNITED STATES

11.28.2012

Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Fahey 

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3

PORT HUENEME, Calif. - Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 stationed at Naval Base Ventura County in Port Hueneme, Calif, successfully completed a three-day command post exercise to improve tactical communication skills Nov. 26 to 28.

According to a CPX coordinator, Chief Petty Officer (SCW) Manuel Rayes, the recent milestone was one of several designed to help enhance command unity, preparedness and enable NMCB 3 to be "Better Than Best" during their upcoming deployment scheduled next year.

"CPX is necessary training for the development of critical battles skills," said Rayes. "These same battle skills will ensure unit survivability and sustainability when deployed in support of combat operations."

With more than 500 Seabees assigned to NMCB 3, communication during tactical situations is critical.

According to one of the junior participants, the exercise allowed her to develop skills she knew would be useful while deployed.

"For me, learning to conduct myself professionally on the radio and communicate clearly was probably the most important take away," said Petty Officer 3rd Class (SCW) Krystal Santaniello. "When we deploy, I'll need those skills to ensure I provide and receive correct instructions."

Whether providing security against foreign threats or requesting materials for a project, communication is the cornerstone of mission success. The CPX ensures these skills are developed and maintained at every level.

"CPX is a vital training tool we, as a battalion, use in order to instill current battle skills in today’s Seabees," said CPX coordinator Ensign Karl Coulson. "Proficiencies obtained here in training not only ensure mission readiness but also educates troops who are capable of meeting a variety of demanding assignments."

• Date Taken: 11.28.2012
• Date Posted: 12.05.2012 11:42
• Story ID: 98780
• Location: PORT HUENEME, CA, US