Sulu Sea. (April 13, 2023): In this photo by MC2 Joshua Samoluk, Construction Mechanic Seaman Kenneth Foster, left, and Seaman Glenn Thornhill, right, replace an alternator on a Humvee in the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS John P. Murtha. Construction Mechanics repair and maintain heavy construction, tactical, and automotive equipment used to carry out amphibious landings. These skilled technicians diagnose equipment failures including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems and they maintain spare part inventories for equipment repair. In addition to supporting the Naval Construction Forces, Construction Mechanics are in high demand to provide support to Special Warfare and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Units.

To become a Construction Mechanic, candidates must complete basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, and then it is off to Port Hueneme, California for Class “A” Technical School which lasts 16 weeks.

Port Hueneme is the West Coast home of the famous Seabees and the base serves as an interservice training partner for Navy and Air Force students in specialized construction skills.

The USS Murtha is part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, an integrated amphibious force that can support operational commanders around the globe with both strike and amphibious capabilities.