Phil Farrell
  
 

LCDR Phillip Farrell

   I was in MCB 11 from August 1961 to December 1962. I was a Lt.(jg). I was D Company Commander. We deployed to Midway Islands, where MCB 11 did extensive replacement of structures (Public Works Maintenance Shops, etc.). Near the end of the deployment I was Company Commander of the combined  C & D Companies. The replacement of the seaplane ramp, etc. was one of the remaining projects.
    After Midway Islands, during the time at Port Hueneme, I volunteered to be personnel Officer. My reason was solve as many problems before deployment. I found this just as rewarding as construction.
    I was C Company Commander during the initial deployment to Guam.
    After MCB11, I went to graduate school and obtained a master degree in engineering. I worked for a chemical company (Hercules Incorporated). I did research on the treatment of wastes from chemicals such as 2,4D & 2,4,5 T (50% of each is Agent Orange), Toxaphene, etc.
   I served 3 1/2 years active duty and 7 reserves.
   I retired as a LCDR. I worked for the San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS) doing studies for drinking water. I am presently an Environmental Engineer at Beale Air Force Base, Ca. I am a Remedial Program Manager (RPM) for unexploded ordnance (UXO) and perchlorate. As RPM I am accountable for the techinical quality, schedule and cost. The work involves a Comprehensive Site Evaluation (CSE) that combines Preliminary Assessment (PA) and Site Inspection (SI). The CSE will identify and assess the unique explosive safety issues and environmental hazards. I work with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) personnel, Sacramento Office, State of California regulators, Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and contractors.
   

When I was about 6 years old my Dad enlisted in the Seabees at the age of 38, Palm Sunday April 18, 1943 and he was discharged October 13, 1945 as a Chief Shipfitter (AA) (T) (CB). I wondered for years why he enlisted. His brother, 40 years old at the time was called up with the New York National Guard. I suspect he was embarrassed that his older brother was serving and he wasn't. My Dad, a steamfitter by trade and ship fitter in the Seabees, went to England. He rebuild the steam systems on ships in preparation for for the Normandy Invasion, D-Day. He was in the 97th Naval Construction Unit. My goal in life was to be in the Seabees. After graduation from college I went to OCA and eventually realized my dream as a Company Commander in MCB11. I lived in Houston for 31 years and finally moved to San Antonio.

William R. Farrell - 1943/45