NMCB 4 Seabee awarded Purple Heart

Photo By Russ Stewart | Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR’s Convoy Security Element, “Team Nightmare,” following the presentation of the Purple Heart to Utilitiesman 3rd Class Crystal McDougal, gunner and member of CSE. NMCB FOUR is a component of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command that provides contingency engineering and construction across Afghanistan in support of the overall mission of International Security Assistance Forces and regional commander requirements.  

CAMP LEATHERNECK, AFGHANISTAN

11.28.2011

Story by Petty Officer 1st Class Russ Stewart 

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4

CAMP KRUTKE, Afghanistan – Petty Officer 3rd Class Crystal McDougal of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in action, Nov. 22, while standing surrounded by the close knit family of NMCB FOUR’s Convoy Security Element.

“My team was there for me when we were hit, and they are there for me now as I recover,” said McDougal. “I am honored to be a part of the team, and proud to be called a member of CSE!”

McDougal was in her position as gunner when her MRAP (mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle) was hit by an IED. Wearing the gunner’s harness and hooked in, and all of her personal protective equipment prevented McDougal from sustaining further injuries and is a testament to the high standards of professionalism of “Team Nightmare” under the leadership of Chief Construction Mechanic Nathan Chun, CSE’s Officer-in-Charge.

The team’s thorough training and cohesiveness was apparent at the scene when the MEDEVAC request was radioed in, and while “Doc,” Petty Officer 1st Class Oscar Morales, stabilized the wounded. Their expert teamwork resulted in McDougal’s transportation to a higher echelon of care within 45 minutes.

Even when NMCB 4’s commanding officer, Cmdr. La Tanya Simms, and command master chief, Master Chief Petty Officer Michael Jenkins, visited McDougal at Camp Leatherneck’s medical facility and under the influence of medication, her first question was inquiring about the welfare of the rest of the team. On her feet again six days after the incident to receive her award, she requested a small ceremony, preferring to have only her CSE family attend.

Through thousands of miles of convoys and adversity, NMCB 4’s CSE team has grown close and rallied around one of their own as she was recognized for her sacrifice in service to her team, battalion and country.

• Date Taken: 11.28.2011
• Date Posted: 12.06.2011 08:34
• Story ID: 80944
• Location: CAMP LEATHERNECK, AF