Expeditionary Logistics Unit (ELU), Fleet Readiness Center (FRC) Northwest, recently deployed replacement personnel to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan as part of a new, six month rotation initiative in support of the deployed EA-6B squadrons. 

Previously, personnel were deployed from Sembach, Germany, and re-deployed to Bagram from Germany. Expeditionary Logistics Unit 1, Sembach is in the process of closing so Bagram’s aircraft and personnel support now comes directly from FRC.

The primary mission of ELU is to provide the forward deployed expeditionary Prowler squadrons with limited I-level and logistics support. Support includes non-destructive inspections, tire and wheel maintenance, aircraft battery maintenance, oil and oil filter debris analysis, aircraft support equipment maintenance, and the requisitioning of aircraft parts and supplies.

The increased number of Sailors deploying, from 13 to 17 personnel, has necessitated extra living space. ELU Bagram acquired an additional B-Hut, meaning all Sailors would now be able to enjoy the privilege of their own rooms and additional privacy. 

Renovation efforts led by Storekeeper 1st Class Johnson Lemuel included privacy walls and locking doors to safeguard possessions.

“B-hut 29 is like an old hobby,” said Lemuel. “That was what I use to do prior to coming into the Navy. Some challenges were trying to acquire material through the BAF combined with a surplus of volunteers with not enough tools. It took some time but we got it finished.”

The work site consisted of an area on the flight line made up of 11 interconnected mobile maintenance facilities located in the lowest point of a five acre area.

The unit acquired over 750 sandbags and a large pile of sand to replace the old worn ones and to supplement existing ones. The filled sand bags were then placed in strategic locations to prevent water intrusion. 

ELU Bagram personnel are no turning their attention to the challenges of providing the support necessary to ensure the deployed squadron is able to provide combat support sorties in support of coalition troops.