Seabee Coordination Helps Restore Bridge in Iraq

Seabee Coordination Helps Restore Bridge in Iraq

Story Number: NNS070709-10
Release Date: 7/9/2007 4:52:00 PM

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist (SW/AW) Shane Montgomery, 30th Naval Construction Regiment Public Affairs

FALLUJAH, Iraq (NNS) -- When an explosion disabled the primary bridge providing access for vehicles passing between lakes Habbaniyah and Razazah in western Iraq on May 27, Seabees from the 30th Naval Construction Regiment (30 NCR) were tasked to repair the heavily trafficked route.

The explosion, created by nearly 2,000 pounds of explosives hidden in the bed of a dump truck traveling across the span, demolished the western end of the bridge and sent a section of it plummeting 100 feet below into the Al Majarrah River.

The destruction of the bridge, referred to as the Atlantic City Bridge by coalition forces, would impact convoys that use the route to move supplies and personnel around the Al Anbar Province of Iraq.

“When we got the call to repair Atlantic City Bridge, there was an immediate sense of urgency,” said Master Chief Constructionman Michael Cassidy, 30 NCR Operations Department leading chief petty officer. “Until we could get the bridge repaired, it would mean convoys would be taking more dangerous routes to get to their destinations. That knowledge provides plenty of motivation to get the job done as quick and safe as possible.”

- rest at www.news.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=30282