CAMP KRUTKE, Afghanistan - The Runnin' Roos of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133 accepted control of Seabee engineering operations in the Central Command area of operations from NMCB 11 during a transfer of authority ceremony, Sept. 14, aboard Camp Leatherneck's Seabee installation, Camp Krutke, Afghanistan.
U.S. Navy Cmdr. Lore Aguayo, commanding officer of NMCB 11, turned over the responsibility for Seabee construction efforts in the region to Cmdr. Nicholas Yamodis, commanding officer of NMCB 133.
Keynote speaker U.S. Army Brig. Gen. David L. Weeks, commanding general of the 411th Engineer Brigade and Joint Task Force Empire, said the day marked the culmination of many months in combat for NMCB 11, and marked the beginning of the continuation of construction efforts across the battle space for NMCB 133.
"I am honored to serve with you and beside you. Regardless of our branch of service or component, we are all members of the greatest military in the world," Weeks said of both battalions. "I believe Seabees represent the very best of the United States Navy. They are unique, different from every other formation here in Afghanistan, and they bring much to the fight."
Weeks said that NMCB 11 has added to the pages of history and glory to the Seabee reputation by helping create a strong and self-reliant Afghanistan for future generations and challenged NMCB 133 to do the same.
"As we say goodbye to one great command team and their Seabees, we welcome another great team of seasoned warriors," said Weeks. "The Seabees of NMCB 133 are equally up to the task. You have answered the call and you will carry the mission forward."
"Regardless of what NMCB you come from," Aguayo said, "we all wear the Seabee patch on our pocket and your success is our success. Skipper Yamodis, Runnin' Roos, on behalf of all Seabees of NMCB 11, we wish you a very safe and productive deployment."
During their time in Afghanistan, NMCB 133 will provide engineering support to Joint Task Force Empire and assist coalition and Afghan forces in making a difference throughout the region.