“We Build, We Fight” has been the motto of the U. S. Navy’s Construction Force, known as the “Seabees,” for the past 75 years.
Today, Baltimore native and 2013 Baltimore Polytechnic Institute graduate, Constructionman Fubara Gombajiji, builds and fights with the Navy in Guam and around the world as a member of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 133, based out of Gulfport, Mississippi.
“I haven’t been in Guam that long, but I really look forward to going out in town and experiencing the culture and enjoying the beaches,” said Gombajiji.
Gombajiji works as a utilitiesman who is responsible for Hvac and plumbing maintenance and installation.
“Growing up in church, I was a pathfinder,” said Gombajiji. “It is kind of similar to a boy scout, but the lessons I learned as a pathfinder I’ve carried into being in the Navy. “
The jobs of some of the Seabees today have remained unchanged since World War II, when the Seabees paved the 10,000-mile road to victory for the allies in the Pacific and in Europe, according to Lara Godbille, director of the U. S. Navy Seabee Museum.
For the past 75 years, Seabees have served in all American conflicts. They have also supported humanitarian efforts using their construction skills to help communities around the world following earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters.
“We do an exercise called Black Hell Squad,” said Gombajiji. “We pretty much go out and train each other. I’m really proud of the team work and goals we accomplish during exercise like that.”
Seabees around the world are taking part in a yearlong celebration to commemorate the group’s 75-year anniversary this year. The theme of the celebration is “Built on History, Constructing the Future.”
Today, Seabees continue their innovative traditions, ensuring they always meet fast-paced challenges, according toGombajiji.
“I am proud of the hard work that Seabees like do every day,” said Rear Adm. Bret Muilenburg, commander, Naval Facilities Engineering Command. “Their support to the Navy and Marine Corps mission is immeasurable, and we look forward to the next seven decades of service.”
Serving in the U.S. Navy has allowed Gombajiji to continue learning about himself and the legacy he wants to leave to future Seabees.
“The Navy has made me a better person by appreciating the world,” added Gombajiji. “What we do as Seabees gives us a better insight of all the impact we have in the places we and get to visit.”