In the wake of the Kona storm causing severe flooding that impacted Oahu’s North Shore, military personnel from Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command, Hawaii (NAVFAC HI) volunteered to support local communities by focusing on debris removal and recovery efforts in Waialua, Hawaii March 26, 2026.
Partnering with personnel from Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH), NAVFAC HI volunteers joined a coordinated community initiative aimed at helping residents begin restoring their homes and properties. This effort underscored the Navy’s enduring commitment to supporting the people of Hawaii and strengthening community relationships during times of need.
A total of 19 NAVFAC HI personnel participated in the effort, including 14 enlisted Seabees from the Self-Help Division and five officers. Working alongside fellow service members, National Guard personnel, and local residents, volunteers cleared and consolidated debris to support efficient removal operations. Their work included removing heavy mud and debris from both the interiors and exteriors of multiple homes.
“We participated in a community volunteer effort focused on disaster recovery and debris removal for local residents,” said Chief Amberleigh Cantrell, senior enlisted leader for NAVFAC HI. “Our team helped families impacted by heavy mud and debris, restore their homes and property, reinforcing our commitment to the community.”
In one particularly meaningful effort, volunteers assisted a local resident by clearing mud and debris from his pig pens, which had been heavily impacted by the flooding. This helped him regain his ability to maintain his livelihood.
“The most rewarding part was being able to directly help families during a difficult time and see the immediate progress from our work,” said Builder 1st Class Robert Lowery, a Seabee and leading petty officer assigned to the Self-Help division for NAVFAC HI. “Helping a resident restore his livelihood and supporting families as they reclaim their homes really reinforced the purpose behind what we do.”
The volunteer effort brought together personnel from multiple commands across JBPHH, including assistant public works officers, Seabees, National Guard members, and civilian volunteers, all working side by side with local residents.
“This effort highlighted the strength of the local community and the spirit of aloha,” said Lt. j.g. Braden Lorbecki, an officer assigned to NAVFAC HI. “It shows what can be accomplished when people come together with a shared goal. These opportunities not only support the community but also build teamwork, pride, and connection among everyone involved.”
Rooted in service and community partnership, the effort exemplified NAVFAC Hawaii’s mission beyond infrastructure by demonstrating compassion, resilience, and unity in action.
NAVFAC Hawaii remains committed to supporting community initiatives and looks forward to continuing efforts that make a lasting, positive impact across the region.
For more NAVFAC Hawaii stories, visit https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/NFESCH