CHAPTER 3
HORIZONTAL CONSTRUCTION
The construction of roads and airfields, or portions
of roads and airfields, is often tasked to the Seabees for
accomplishment. As an Engineering Aid, you can expect
involvement in projects of this type. This involvement
may include assisting the engineering officer in the
design of these facilities or in the surveying operations
required before, or during, construction. Whatever your
involvement is, you must be familiar with the
terminology, methods, and materials of road and airfield
construction. This chapter will provide that familiarity.
ROADS
A military road is defined as any route used by the
military for transportation of any type. This includes
everything from a superhighway to a simple path
through the jungle. The type of road required depends
mainly upon the missions of the units that use it. In
forward combat zones, the requirements are usually met
by the most expedient road; that is, one that will get the
job done with no attempt for permanency. In the rear
zones, however, the requirements usually call for some
degree of permanency and relatively high construction
standards.
NOMENCLATURE
When assigned to the engineering division, you may
help prepare the working plans for the construction of
roads and airfields; for example, a two-lane, earth,
gravel, or paved-surface road. Figures 3-1 and 3-2 show
the basic parts of a road. The following paragraphs give
Figure 3-1.-Perspective of road showing road nomenclature.
Figure 3-2.—Typical cross section showing road nomenclature.
3-1
