We all know someone who has served or is serving in the military. Whether it is a brother, sister, uncle, parent, or friend, we feel a debt of gratitude for their unwavering commitment to our country. Unless you’ve spent time wearing the uniform, it’s hard to understand what these men and women experience. In Rhode Island, there is a military museum that gives us a glimpse into the lives and service of the very unique Seabees.

In 1942, a very special military naval base was started in Davisville. The base served as training grounds for the Naval Construction Battalions or as they later became known, the Seabees.
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The Seabees were not just fighters, they were also builders. Recruits were construction workers in a variety of skilled trades. These carpenters, electricians, equipment operators, plumbers, and many others were trained to defend themselves from attack while working as a team to repair or construct new airstrips, wells, roads, bridges, hospitals, utility systems and more. Their list of accomplishments is staggering.
The famous bee is the symbol of the Seabees. Created by a civilian file clerk who loved to draw, he used the bee to represent the units because worker bees are very determined and will not sting unless provoked. This captured the very essence of the Seabees.
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At the military museum, you'll be able to view up close the Quonset Huts, where military personnel lived during WWII.
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The Quonset Huts were designed to be lightweight, portable, and inexpensive. They were shipped anywhere and then assembled quickly using only hand tools. The design was adapted into use for more than just barracks, these huts also became offices, chapels, isolation wards, bakeries, and much more.

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Visit the displays to take a look at the uniforms and memorabilia collected over the years. Each piece is significant to the history of this unique military organization.
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Informative signs detail the history, missions, accomplishments, and struggles of the Seabees.
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Also on the grounds is the Chapel in the Pines. Take a minute to visit this beautiful building and remember the fallen Seabee heroes.
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The Seabees Museum and Memorial Park was built by volunteers and Seabees and is a non-profit entity. The grounds and museum is completely handicapped accessible and welcomes all visitors.
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Visit the military museum at 21 Lafrate Way, North Kingstown, Rhode Island 02852. Summer visitors hours are May 4th until September 29th on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information on the Seabees or the museum, visit their website.

Have you been to visit the Seabee Museum? What did you learn? If you love history, you’ll also enjoy a trip to this museum in Providence.

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