NPDB 2 was formed under the Individual Augmentation Program, that trains US Navy members from all Navy communities (aviation, submariners, surface, hospital corps) to fill manpower shortages for in theater assignments in the US led Global War On Terrorism (GWOT).

Prior to deploying in August 2006, they received three months of training from the Army at Fort Bliss, Texas which included convoy operations, self-defense tactics, riot control, hand-to-hand combat, non-lethal weapons, first aid, search and seizure, and urban operations.

During its deployment one sailor was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries in combat, and another died as a result of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

[1][2][3] Additionally, two sailors received battlefield promotions through the Combat Meritorious Advancement Program for their achievements during the deployment.

Subsequently making the detainee battalion the longest "boots on ground" Navy unit since World War II.