“Bravo Zulu” (well done)! This was the resounding praise declared by members of the project team upon completion of the U.S. Navy’s San Clemente Island Fuel Facility renovation and upgrade project. The Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) San Diego commemorated the success of this important project during a ribbon cutting ceremony on July 6, 2016.
“At a partnering session about a year ago, we all committed to resolve the challenges, work together and lead this project to a successful completion. Well done,” said CDR Dan Cook, Public Works Officer, Naval Base Coronado.
Facilitated by Neal Flesner of Ventura Consulting Group, the $31-million project focused on replacing aging fuel storage facilities with cutting-edge modernizations used to support Naval aircraft missions. The renovations were conducted on Navy-owned property located on San Clemente Island in California, which serves as a live-fire range and research facility, providing tactical training for both fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft squadrons assigned to Navy Region Southwest.
“Fuel is one of the most essential resources for military forces in every theater and corner of the globe today,” said Commander, NAVSUP Global Logistics Support Rear Adm. James McNeal in a recent news release about the project issued by NAVSUP FLC. “The fueling facilities in the Southwest region, in particular, service one of the largest concentrations of naval forces in the world. To ensure the facility maintained optimal support levels to the fleet while also mitigating impact to the environment during such substantial construction is a very significant achievement.”
Built by Structural Associates Inc. along with subcontractor Stronghold Associates, the three year-long project entailed the replacement of three subterranean JP-5 jet fuel tanks with new, 100,000 gallon above-ground tanks. A new pump house and pump room was also constructed, complementing upgrades to the facility’s fire suppression systems, truck fill stands, and leak detection systems. All work was completed while the site remained operational, issuing in excess of 80,000 gallons of fuel each month for hundreds of Navy, joint service and allied forces aircraft.
“To have such a busy fuel facility undergo a construction project of this magnitude — while still meeting all mission requirements in supporting aggressive warfighter training — speaks volumes about the caliber of personnel we have on the job,” said NAVSUP FLC San Diego Commanding Officer Rear Adm. (Select) John Palmer. “Everyone involved, from our civil service and military personnel to our trusted contractor partners, has certainly gone above and beyond in ensuring this project resulted in success. I am certain I speak for America’s warfighters when I thank them for their tireless efforts and congratulate them on a job well done.”