Point Paper

16MAR2016

Subj: Homeport Orgs

BACKGROUND

Seabee battalions have typically utilized line companies to comprise their primary organization in while in homeport. Prior to going to FTX a battalion typically reorganizes into a Det structure made up of personnel from each line company. Prior to deployment a battalion once again reorganizes into a deployment Det structure. This past homeport NMCB 133 utilized a Det structure based upon potential geographic deployment locations. The battalion went to FTX in this structure and pulled from these geographic Dets to make up the battalion’s deployment organization.

DISCUSSION

While the Homeport Det Org structure is a significant change from the traditional line companies, the organization had numerous benefits:

-Allows a group of individuals to go through the teambuilding process throughout homeport. A unity and pride is built as a group musters together, PTs together, goes to FTX together, and then get pulled into deployment Dets together.

-Fosters a better climate for cross rate training. This is most notable for Junior Officers who get exposure leading a variety of Seabees as opposed to becoming focused on the Line Company they may get assigned to.

-Provides much better continuity of Eval writing by eliminating multiple changes in leadership. The careers of our Seabee’s are better represented by leadership who know their performance over a much longer course of time.

-Builds trust in the chain of command. It takes time for junior troops to open up to leadership. The Homeport Det Org allows time for junior personnel to become comfortable with their leadership. This in turn allows for leadership to better know and take care of their Seabees.

-More time is spent on the personal and professional development of our troops. The Homeport Det Org affords leadership the opportunity to set expectations early. By the time Battalion is on deployment leadership is able to spend significantly less time...