Seabees Train to Build Expeditionary Pier

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ron Kuzlik, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) -- Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 1 and 2 Seabees completed construction of a 500-foot elevated causeway system modular (ELCAS-M) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Va. Aug. 19.

Nearly 200 Reserve and active duty Seabees worked jointly to build the expeditionary pier system used to bridge the surf zone, providing an interface between cargo vessels and the beach.

The ELCAS facilitates the maritime offload of supplies, equipment and ordnance onto vehicles driven on the causeway and loaded by cranes also positioned on the causeway.

Seabees periodically conduct this exercise to maintain proficiency, something emphasized by Adm. J.C. Harvey, Jr., commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, who stressed the value of ELCAS-M capability in supporting the Navy's Sea Basing strategy.

Sea Basing offers enhanced operational flexibility and maximum combat power ashore with minimum force protection requirements, and increased command and control capability from the sea.

The Sea Basing concept is intended to replace the traditional means of employing naval forces, which include acquisition of advanced bases as close as possible to the scene of action, the landing of forces on a hostile shore, blockades, and the struggle for dominance and control of the local sea.

Constructing the ELCAS took Seabees 13 days to complete and involved more than 60,000 man-hours of labor by Navy steelworkers, engineering aides, builders and other Seabee personnel working alternating 12-hour shifts day and night.

"This was an extremely effective and efficient build," ACB-1 Reserve Officer-in-Charge Lt. Phong Pham said. "We had nearly 200 Seabees with a variety of skills and experience levels working to make this project such a success. ELCAS gives us capabilities and access that we have never had before."