Ottawa Native Recognized for Performance while Serving Aboard Public Works Department Bahrain

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – A Ottawa, Ohio, native assigned to Public Works Department (PWD) Bahrain, Naval Facilities Engineering Command Europe Africa Central (NAVFAC EURAFCENT), was recently recognized for exemplary performance.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Carl Basinger is a 2014 Ottawa-Glandorf High School graduate. Today, Basinger serves as a Navy engineering aid.

“Engineering aides work directly with construction engineers to create and develop land surveys, maps, drawings, sketches and blueprints,” said Basinger. “We can perform a number of tests on different types of construction material such as asphalt, concrete and soils. We also work with quality assurance teams to make sure construction is safe and up to par.”

Basinger joined the Navy six years ago to continue a family tradition.

“I joined the Navy because, it was an opportunity see the world and continue on a family tradition of military service,” said Basinger. “My grandfather served in the Air Force and currently I have many friends and family serving in all the branches as well.”

According to Basinger, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Ottawa.

“Growing up in Ottawa gave me a great sense of pride in one’s work and toughness,” said Basinger. “I’ve never been anywhere that has kinder and more giving people. Ottawa definitely gave me the character, local mentors and work-ethic I needed to be as successful as I am now.”

PWD Bahrain manages facility project planning and design, including related acquisition, construction, leasing, environmental, maintenance, and contingency support required by the Navy and Department of Defense commands where the Navy is designated as the lead agent.

“At my current command I have enjoyed helping other commands keep their facilities up to standards,” said Basinger. “It’s always nice knowing the work you did greatly contributed to the wellness and betterment of people’s lives and well-being. I have also enjoyed mentoring junior troops. Knowing they will learn from all that I can teach them lets me know they’ll be better off at their next commands.”

There are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers.

“I’ve learned a lot about my rate and the navy in general but, one thing I’ll take away from it all is to always cherish every moment you get with family and friends,” said Basinger.

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Basinger, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow.

“Serving in the Navy for me means that I greatly get to enhance my life and experience a life most people don’t get to have,” added Basinger. “Sometimes it’s hard and sometimes it’s really good but, its extraordinary and I’ve enjoyed it all so far.”