THURSDAY, AUGUST 9, 2012

www.cnic.navy.mil/jacksonville www.jaxairnews.com VOL. 70 • NO. 30 • NAS Jacksonville, Fla

‘Proud Warriors’ DetachmentBy Lt. Pete Hudson 3regional comes stability and maritime home partnerships. HSL-42 Public Affairs In Constanta, Romania, the “Black Sea Knights” of the Romanian Navy welcomed the Norsemen. Today marks the long awaited return of HSL- After careful planning, they conducted deck land- 42 Detachment 3 “Norsemen” from their single- ing qualifications in their PUMA helicopter, as aircraft, seven-month Mediterranean deployment well as special operations fast-roping exercises to embarked on the guided missile cruiser USS Vella the deck of Vella Gulf. Gulf (CG 72). The Norsemen also conducted bilateral in-port Initially led by Lt. Cmdr. James Thompson, Det. training with the Ukrainian Navy in Sevastopol, 3 and Vella Gulf were underway in late November Ukraine. The planned visit to Odessa, Ukraine and quickly integrated with the ship’s team. Close was ultimately called off due to record cold (-20° F) planning and support led to two successful multi- weather descending on Eastern Europe. national exercises, as well as Ballistic Missile Vella Gulf departed for warmer waters and Defense (BMD) coverage over Europe and Israel. sailed to Sicily for Proud Manta, the largest anti- The Norsemen flew the venerable SH-60B submarine warfare (ASW) exercise in the world. Seahawk (Proud Warrior 22) for 540 flight hours Vella Gulf and Det. 3 trained with the Dutch, in support of these missions. The ever-changing French, German, Greek, Italians and other U.S. mix of flights ranged from the typical Recognized forces to cover an array of tactical scenarios. The Maritime Picture (RMP), Vertical Replenishment aircrew demonstrated Proud Warrior 422’s multi- (VERTREP) and Passenger Transfer (PAXFER) role proficiency throughout 20 sorties, coordi- to the mission critical Medical Evacuation nating with both U.S. and foreign ship and air (MEDEVAC), Undersea Warfare (USW), and Low assets. In addition to the exercise, Det. 3 con- Slow Flyer (LSF) Intercept. ducted an expedient MEDEVAC of a shipmate to Through it all, Det.3 provided around-the-clock NAS Sigonella, Italy where the sailor to received readiness for surface action group tasking with comprehensive medical attention. minimal delays in being fully mission capable. Following an extended port visit in Naples, Italy, Vella Gulf and Det. 3 prepared for their indepen- Vella Gulf joined Hellenic and Israeli naval forces dent deployment in November by taking part in in Souda Bay to cement plans for exercise Noble the fast-paced environment of Composite Training Dina. Here, the Norsemen helped develop an air Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX). Following a short plan for their SH-60B, a Hellenic SH-70 helicopter break for the holidays, Vella Gulf set sail to its first and a U.S. P-3C flying from Souda Bay. Photo courtesy of HSL-42 ports of call: Rota, Spain and Souda Bay, Crete. Close coordination among the aircraft and ships The SH-60B Seahawk of HSL-42 Detachment 3 performed Next up were the Turkish Straits and the Black allowed for early detection and precise target- many vertical replenishments during its deployment with the Sea to continue U.S. 6th Fleet efforts to enhance guided missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72). See HSL-42, Page 8 VP-45 ‘Pelicans’ participate in RIMPAC 2012 By Lt. j.g. Alec Verone cises, including anti-submarine warfare mis- VP-45 Public Affairs Officer sions involving multiple submarines. During the exercise, the detachment refined Every two years, Commander U.S. Pacific Fleet critical coordinated operational skills. hosts the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) “RIMPAC 2012 was a fantastic opportunity in and around the Hawaiian Islands. for VP-45 to work side by side with allies and Twenty-two nations, 40 surface ships, six partners such as New Zealand, Australia, South submarines, and more than 200 aircraft makes Korea and Japan. Our combat aircrew was able RIMPAC (June 29 to Aug. 3) the world’s largest to benefit from the collective experience of other international maritime warfare exercise. P-3C forces, in addition to strengthening the This unique training opportunity helps par- bonds of fellowship with our allies,” said Lt. j. g. ticipants foster the cooperative relationship that Blake Herzinger of VP-45. is critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world’s oceans. And of course, a trip to Hawaii would not be Lt. Seth Eisenmenger, VP-45 tactical coordina- complete without some well-earned liberty. tor and weapons and tactics instructor said, “It’s “I think we all benefited professionally from Photo courtesyof VP-45 a great opportunity to train with many of the our RIMPAC experience and I’m sure our tans Members of the VP-45 “Pelicans” RIMPAC 2012 detachment at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, at Kaneohe Bay. (From left, kneeling) same Pacific nations that we could be deployed did as well. We are eager to share our RIMPAC experiences with the rest of the VP-45 team,” AWV2 Daniel Harten, AWF3 Joshua Skipper, Lt. Cory Hilgart, with in the future.” AWO2 Joshua Eichhorn, Lt. Boyd Pritchard, Lt. Chet Johnson. VP-45 played an integral role in RIMPAC 2012, said Herzinger. (From left, standing) AWF2 Greta Hynes, Lt. j.g. Blake Herzinger, providing a P-3C detachment consisting of one VP-45 is scheduled to deploy to Kadena Air AWO2 Jim Ballenger, Lt. Jordan Young, Lt. Cmdr. Mark Gander, aircraft and 13 Pelicans to join in several exer- Base, Japan in December. AWO2 Thomas Merkling and IS2 Jeremy White. Protected species surveyed at Pinecastle Range Complex By Christine Bauer NAS Jax Natural Resources Manager land management initiatives at the range. The current round of monitoring began in A team of five environmental profession- June 2011 and was extended into this year als recently surveyed the Pinecastle Range due to increased funding. Complex to observe endangered or threat- Participating in the two-day effort were: Photo by Christine Bauer ened species of wildlife and plants – and to Usually seen in pairs, Florida sandhill cranes are a threatened species assess the effects of military training and found in inland freshwater marshes, prairies, pastures and farmlands, as See PINECASTLE, Page 9 well as the Pinecastle Range Complex.

Feds Feed Families Campaign NAS Jax Commissary Store Associate Philip Sanders hands commissary patron Kimberly Nadebaun a $10 bag of specially packaged food items for the annual Feds Feed Families Campaign that runs through Aug. 29. The commissary contest promoting sales of the bags for Feds Feed Families benefits the Second Harvest Food Bank of Jacksonville. "My goal is to sell 1,000 bags for this great campaign to feed the hungry," said Sanders. As of Aug. 7, Sanders had reached 70 percent of his goal by selling 701 bags. Donations for the campaign can be dropped off at various locations around the base.

Photo by Kaylee LaRocque I N S I D E Check us out Online! CPO Selects Hospital Jags Tickets Induction Season Begins CMC Challenge Specially Priced at USO Page 6 Page 4 Page 16 jaxairnews.com 2 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012

Cmdr. William Anderson (right), commanding officer of USS Nautilus (SSN-571), joins crew on the bridge during a period of low visibility as the submarine pre- U.S. Navy photos pares to pass under the North Pole, in August 1958. USS Shenandoah (ZR-1), a 2,115,000-cubic-foot rigid airship, was authorized by congress in 1919. It was fab- Decommissioned in 1980 and designated a National ricated at the Naval Aircraft Factory, Philadelphia, and assembled at NAS Lakehurst, N. J. She first flew in Historic Landmark, Nautilus is now on display at September 1923 and was placed in commission slightly over a month later. During the first weeks of 1924, the Submarine Force Museum in Groton, Conn. The Shenandoah made several flights over the eastern United States, giving the American people their first view of museum's collections include more than 33,000 arti- a U.S.-owned rigid airship. facts related to U.S. Submarine Force history.

Aug. 13 This Week in Navy History 1777 - American explosive device made by David Bushnell explodes near British vessel off New London, From Staff Aug. 11 Conn. 1812 - USS Constitution captures and destroys British 1846 - Joint expedition led by Cmdr. Robert Stockton Aug. 9 brig Lady Warren. seizes Los Angeles, Calif. 1815 – Capt. Stephen Decatur concludes treaty for 1921 - Carrier arresting gear first tested at Hampton 1870 - Armed tug USS Palos becomes first U.S. Navy U.S. with Tripoli. Roads, Va. ship to transit Suez Canal 1842 - Signing of Webster-Ashburton Treaty under 1960 - USNS Longview, using Navy helicopters and Aug. 14 which U.S. and Great Britain agreed to cooperate in frogmen, recovers a Discover satellite capsule after 17 1813 - HMS Pelican captures USS Argus. suppressing the slave trade. orbits. This is first recovery of U.S. satellite from orbit. 1886 - SecNav establishes Naval Gun Factory at 1865 - Return of Naval Academy to Annapolis after Aug. 12 Washington Navy Yard. four years at Newport, R.I. 1812 - USS Constitution captures and destroys British 1945 - Japan agrees to surrender; last Japanese ships 1919 - Construction of rigid airship ZR-1 brig Adeona. sunk during World War II. (Shenandoah) authorized. 1918 - SecNav approves acceptance of women as yeo- Aug. 15 man (F) in U.S. Navy. 1845 - U.S. Naval Academy established at Annapolis, 1941 - Atlantic Charter Conference is first meeting 1942 - USS Cleveland (CL-55) demonstrates effective- Md. on former site of Fort Severn. between President Roosevelt and Winston Churchill. ness of radio-proximity fuze (VT-fuze) against aircraft 1895 - Commissioning of USS Texas, the first 1942 - Battle of Savo Island begins, the first of many by successfully destroying three drones with proximity American steel-hulled battleship. Texas served off sea battles near Guadalcanal. bursts fired by her five inch guns. Cuba during the Spanish-American War and took part 1945 - Atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan. 1944 – Lt. Joseph Kennedy Jr., USNR, the older broth- in the naval battle of Santiago. Under the name of Navy weaponeer arms the atomic bomb. er of John F. Kennedy, was killed with his co-pilot in San Marcos, she was sunk in weapon effects tests in 1949 - First use of pilot ejection seat for emergency a mid-air explosion after taking off from England in a Chesapeake Bay in 1911. Her hulk continued in use as a escape in U.S. made by Lt. Jack Fruin of VF-171 near PB4Y from Special Attack Unit One (SAU-1). Following gunnery target through World War II. Walterboro, S.C. manual takeoff, they were supposed to parachute out 1908 - First Navy post offices established in Navy Aug. 10 over the English Channel while the radio-controlled ships. 1916 - First Naval aircraft production contract for explosive-filled drone proceeded to attack a German 1944 - Operation Dragoon, the allied invasion of N-9s. V-2 missile-launching site. Southern France. 1921 - General Order establishes the Bureau of 1957 - In first test of Automatic Carrier Landing 1953 – Adm. William Radford is first naval officer Aeronautics under Rear Adm. William Moffett. System, Lt. Cmdr. Don Walker landed on USS Antietam. appointed Chairman, Joints Chiefs of Staff. He served 1944 - Guam secured by U.S. forces. 1958 - USS Nautilus (SSN-571) arrives Portland, until August 15, 1957. 1964 - Signing of Gulf of Tonkin Resolution which is England completing first submerged under-ice cruise 1958 - USS Lexington (CVA-16) arrives in vicinity of used as the starting point of the Vietnam Conflict. from Pacific to Atlantic Oceans. Taiwan. It (sometimes) helps to follow the directions By Sarah Smiley I looked at Ford. The direc- on the front of the box. Same Special Contributor tions had not said anything tent, same directions, two very From The Homefront about not building the tent on different outcomes. The happy When something needs to be an incline. We pulled out the family’s mother looked rested assembled, my dad always has a Or maybe he was actually mered the side stakes before the stakes and carried the tent and organized. I stared at the plan: read the directions – all of saying it, because he was a few corner ones. We couldn’t zip the above our heads to a new, flat- ceiling and realized I’d just put them – first. feet away, working on his own front door closed. ter section of the grass. myself in an enclosed net with I also have a plan: look at a project (with directions). Alas, less than an hour later, Later that night, as I lay on my three sons and thought, picture of the finished product I wanted to set a good exam- we had a finished tent. Ford and the slippery nylon fabric listen- “camping kind of stinks.” on the outside of the box – and ple for Ford, so I got out the I stood back and admired it. ing to my boys make inappro- It wasn’t in the instructions, try to work backwards. directions. Ford unpacked the “Why did you build it on that priate noises with their arm- but I realized that maybe we Our different philosophies box and starting unwrapping hill?” dad asked as he walked pits, I thought about the happy had just created a memory, that make it difficult to work togeth- poles while I read. “What’s past. family roasting marshmallows was really quite perfect. er. this?” he asked. “Where does Dad: Did you save the direc- this thing go?” tions? “Hold on, we have to read the Me: Nah, I’ll just look them directions first.” up online or look at the pic- I knew what Ford was think- tures. ing: why read the directions Dad: It really helps to read the when we can study the pho- directions. tograph on the box – the one Me: Over-rated. with the happy family roasting Recently it’s become clear marshmallows outside their that I’ve rubbed off on my old- easily constructed tent? est son, Ford, who is analyti- “How are the directions, cal (like his dad) but also impa- mom?” Ford asked. tient (like me). Directions are a “I don’t understand these barrier to getting things done words.” wrong the first time. “Are you reading the English Interestingly, Ford likes to version?” make his own instructions. “Supposedly.” When he’s playing a made-up The instruction book- game with kids in the neigh- let included pictures, which borhood, it takes him about 20 helped since to the words didn’t minutes to explain the rules – make any sense. The black ink but after two minutes, everyone drawing of a nondescript hand gets bored and leaves. In other unfolding and connecting the words, Ford can make the rules, tent poles made it look decep- but he can’t always follow them. tively easy. Photo by Lt. J.g. Kevin Wendt Then I bought the boys a tent Now I remember why I often for camping. When it was time don’t bother with directions. to do a practice set-up in the Even as I followed each step Goodwill from the grill backyard, Ford and I were won- and pored over the black-and- Sheila Huddleston, Whole Foods marketing team member (left) and Adrienne Cartagena, dering . . . who would read the white drawings, I still didn’t Whole Foods director of marketing, present Greater Area Jacksonville USO Development directions? have a clue what I was doing. Director Bob Ross with a check donation of $900 on July 30. The donation was given on behalf I heard my dad’s words in my We put the poles in the wrong of The Mandarin and Fort Lauderdale Whole Foods stores through the “Goodwill from the head, “It really helps to read the sleeve. We clipped the fabric to Grill” program. "During the Memorial Day weekend, we determined this was the best organiza- directions.” the poles too early. We ham- tion to raise funds to support our troops," said Cartagena.

The Jax air News is an authorized publication for members of the reached at (904) 542-3531, fax (904) 542-1534, email JaxAirNews@ Military Services. Contents of the Jax air News do not necessarily comcast.net or write the Jax air News, Box 2, NAS Jacksonville, Fla., reflect the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, 32212-5000. the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Navy. The The Jax air News is published by The Florida Times-Union, appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or a private firm in no way connected with the U. S. Navy under supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department exclusive written agreement with the U. S. Naval Air Station, Commanding Officer Public Affairs Officer of Defense, or The Florida Times-Union, of the products and Jacksonville, Florida. It is published every Thursday by The Florida Capt. Bob Sanders Miriam S. Gallet services advertised. Everything advertised in the publication shall Times-Union, whose offices are at 1 Riverside Ave., Jacksonville, be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard FL 32202. Estimated readership over 32,000. Distribution by The Public Affairs to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, Florida Times-Union. physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit Advertisements are solicited by the publisher and inquiries Executive Officer Specialist factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or refraction regarding advertisements should be directed to: Capt. Roy Undersander Kaylee LaRocque of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source Editorial Staff until the violation is corrected. Command Editor The deadline for all story and photo submissions is close of business Ellen S. Rykert, Publisher Clark Pierce the Friday before publication, and can be sent to jaxairnews@ 1 Riverside Avenue • Jacksonville, FL 32202 Master Chief comcast.net. 904-359-4168 The deadline for classified submissions is noon Monday. Questions CMDCM(AW/SW) Design/Layout Advertising Sales or comments can be directed to the editor. The Jax air News can be Brad Shepherd George Atchley 904-359-4336 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 3 Navy Housing – help us help you Beginner Rider Course Experienced Rider Course Military Sportbike Rider Course Report moldbarracks, government immediately owned, or officer or representative and your By Vice Adm. Bill French Commander, Navy Installation Command privatized family housing, we’ll chain of command. Call for class dates work with the Sailor as an advocate Taking personal responsibility As a Navy leader – and someone for their needs until we find a solu- to prevent issues like mold before NAS Jax Safety Office who lives in Navy housing – I am tion. it gets out of hand is essential. In committed to ensuring service If the issue cannot be resolved, many environments mold can 542-3082 members and their families have we will work with the Sailor to grow no matter how well we main- suitable, affordable and safe hous- find alternate accommodations. tain the home or condition the air ing. Whether in a barracks room or quality. Recent events pertaining to mold home, if you live in Navy housing Be vigilant and ensure areas of in Navy barracks, and government and suspect a health or safety con- your home or barracks room that owned and family privatized hous- dition exists, please report it to the tend to have more moisture, like ing have indicated a need to more local Private-Public Venture office, kitchens and bathrooms, are kept clearly communicate assistance the local Navy Housing Office or clean on a regular basis. Often available on all issues, but particu- your barracks manager. times, all it takes is a once week- larly when pertaining to health or Use your chain of command; ly wipe down with mold/mildew safety issues. talk to your leading petty officer, cleaner. This is a personal issue for me. leading chief petty officer, division As a ready and resilient force, 21st I am determined to ensure we are officer, ombudsman and even your Century Sailors and their families providing the very best housing commanding officer until you feel must feel confident they can report throughout the fleet – but I also you’re getting the right amount of personal and housing concerns in need your help. If you help me by attention on your issue. order to stay safe and healthy in reporting your housing issues, we If you feel you are having health the places they live so we can all can help ensure you maintain a issues that may be related to con- focus on our mission, our duties house or barracks room that you ditions in your home or barracks and those we care about. can feel proud to say is your home. room, see your medical provider To report mold in NAS Jax bar- Should a health or safety issue immediately and then report the racks, call 542-2296. To report mold arise during a Sailor’s stay in Navy issue to your command medical in NAS Jax housing, call 908-0821.

Fight Deadly Childhood Diseases.

800-822-6344 • www.stjude.org

A CFC Participant – provided as a public service. 4 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 command master chief challenge

Naval Hospital Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Gayle Shaffer holds the 2010 winning flag, CMDCM Bennora Simmons presents the 2012 Challenge Cup, and staff throw down “three” signs to celebrate Clinical Support Services’ win – for the third consecutive year – in Naval Hospital Jacksonville’s CMC Challenge.

Lt. Cmdr. Suzanne Maldarelli (left) and Lt. Cmdr. Cindy Beltejar, from the Nursing Services and Health Care Business team, are stoked and ready to com- Representing the Command Suite and Administration pete. team, HM2 Antonio Greene and ITC Sandra Robinson get motivated at the opening ceremony. HM2 Charles Turner and his daughter enjoy watching the games and festivities at the CMC Challenge and Olympic spirit alive picnic. and well at Naval Hospital Jacksonville By Jeanne Casey NH Jax Deputy Public Affairs Officer

In the spirit of the 2012 Summer Olympics, Naval Hospital Jacksonville staff went for the gold in the Command Master Chief (CMC) Challenge, with a series of competitions held July 23 to 27 to build team unity and physical fitness. CMDCM(AW/SW) Bennora Simmons kicked off the week’s festivities and remarked, “CMC Challenge promotes staff readiness in a positive way. This is a great opportunity for Sailors, officers and civilians to compete together in a fun atmosphere that builds team spirit.” The command’s directorates fielded teams to com- pete in multiple matches as they pursued the CMC Challenge Cup. Teams designed flags and t-shirts, and earned points by placing in competitions — with extra points for bringing the team flag and participation by senior leaders. This year’s events included an obstacle course, 5K run, basketball, volleyball, softball, swim meet, pull ups, tug-of-war, relay run, blind canoe race, spades, ultimate Frisbee and “Are you smarter than a recruit?” For the third year, Clinical Support Services took In the chiefs versus officers softball game, Lt. Cmdr. Steven Barstow, in a valiant effort, swings and misses — while HMC Allison Levy catches the ball. first place. Simmons awarded the CMC Challenge Cup at NH Jacksonville’s command picnic on July 27 – the Second place went to the Branch Health Clinics and Suite and Administration team. Hoorah, Naval culmination of the weeklong Challenge. Public Health team, and third place to the Command Hospital Jacksonville – congratulations to all.

HM1 Ciara Green hoists a flag, rallying her shipmates Surgical Services staff hold on, smiling through the pain, in the tug-of-war. and galvanizing their competitors at the command picnic. JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 5

(Above) The noise is deafening as teammates cheer each other on during the swim meet at the NAS Jacksonville indoor pool. (Below left) HN Jason James feels the burn as he completes his leg of the freestyle swimming relay.

Photos by HM1 Dwight Smalls

Commanding Officer Capt. Gayle Shaffer congratulates the staff and thanks Executive Officer Capt. Michael Vernere at the command picnic. Vernere retires this year and leaves his post at Naval Hospital Jacksonville this summer, capping off his many years of honorable service, first HM1 Jason Maris (left) and HMC(Select) Wayne Nettles feel the as a hospital corpsman for four years and then as a nurse for 28 years. heat, cooking hamburgers and hot dogs to feed the hungry crowds at the CMC Challenge command picnic.

PS3 Carmen Sales powers through one last pull-up as Surgical Services, Clinical Support A runner from the Branch Health Clinics and Public Health team Services, Branch Health Clinics and Public Health team members await their turns. sprints with the baton, ready to pass it to his teammate in the relay race.

Naval Hospital Jacksonville Executive Officer Capt. Clinical Support Services staff dig in on the tug-of-war, as the Command Suite and Administration team watch Michael Vernere, fresh from the softball field, bids to see who wins. farewell to staff at the command picnic. 6 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 Missed the cut? VP-16 CPO Use Career Development Selectees Boards to improve advancement The VP-16 "War Eagles" congratu- From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs late its five new chief petty offi- cer selectees on Aug. 1. (From With the release of Active Duty Chief Petty Officer left) AWFC(Select) Brian High, Selection Board results July 31, approximately 4,400 Sailors AMC(Select) Gregory Tucker, have embarked upon a rigorous induction season. AZC(Select) Natalia Luchetti, PRC (Select) Joshua Martin and AMC “While it is a high point for those Sailors selected for CPO, (Select) Anthoney Johnscott. The the active and Reserve boards typically review records of War Eagles are currently in transi- more than 19,000 first class petty officers, which means a lot tion to the P-8A Poseidon. Photo by MC2(AW) Gulianna Mandigo of Sailors were not be selected – and that is very disappoint- ing to Sailors,” said Navy Personnel Command Force Master Chief (AW/SW/NAC) Jon Port. “The chain of command must communicate with those Sailors who did not get selected.” According to Port, command leadership should assist Sailors not selected by conducting a career development board (CDB). A CDB provides Sailors the opportunity to dis- cuss their career progression, the health of their rating, and CNATTU-Jax their short and long-term goals for the future. “CDBs provide enlisted Sailors the opportunity for opti- mal development of their professional skills, both military Selectees and technical, thereby enhancing unit readiness, job sat- The Center for Naval Aviation isfaction and ultimately the retention and advancement of Technical Training Unit our Sailors,” said Port. Jacksonville congratulates Together, Sailors and their chain of command can review the following CPO selectees: the Sailor’s record and identify ways to improve competi- (from left) ATC(Select) Justin tiveness in the future. Sieble, ATC(Select) Karl Fuller, “Leaders should look at what the Sailor can do to gain ASC(Select) Kathryn Kennon, more authority and responsibility in their current position YNC(Select) Sean Summersill and to become more competitive, discuss the health of their rat- ATC(Select) Aaron Clifford. ing and of course make sure the Sailors accomplishments are properly documented in their record,” Port said. He added that it is equally important to consider those Photo courtesy of CNATTU-Jax qualifications or milestones a Sailor should possess but potentially did not attain. “If we are straightforward yet supportive with our Sailors, they stand a much greater chance of following the advice given by their chain of command and ultimately attaining that next pay grade,” he said. FRCSE CPO “I was extremely disappointed when I didn’t get selected last year, because I felt like I was doing all I could,” said YN1 Selectees Shontay Bond, a Full Time Support Reservist assigned to Buckley Air Force Base, Colo. Fleet Readiness Center Southeast “After, I had a CDB and listened to the advice my chiefs (FRCSE) first class petty offi- had to give.” Bond, who is waiting for the results of the cers who made the FY13 Chief Reserve Chief Petty Officer Selection Board, has since gone Petty Officer Selection Board on to finish her college degree. advancement list are (standing She sought additional ways to demonstrate leadership from left) AOC(Select) Roderick abilities by organizing community service projects for her Dubose, ATC(Select) James Riner, command. She rotated her collateral duties and took orders AMC(Select) Morgan Lemos, ATC(Select) Jeffery Sailors, to a joint service command to increase her career versatility. AOC(Select) Matthew Vock and Bond, who recently volunteered for an individual aug- ATC(Select) George Stevenson. mentee assignment, said she took the information from her Three Sailors (not pictured) from CDB to heart. FRCSE DET Mayport also made the Photo by Victor Pitts “It gave me the extra pat on the back I needed to move list: ADC(Select) Richard Turner, ahead and to not give up,” said Bond. CDB training and AEC(Select) Christopher Wymer and ADC(Select) Justin Blanco. CMDCM Leonard Gage (seated), the individual career development plan worksheets are avail- command’s top enlisted advisor, was instrumental in helping these outstanding Sailors chart a course able from the Navy Personnel Command Web site. for continued success in the Navy. JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 7 8 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 VPU-1 Chiefs’ Mess pays respects to Wounded Warriors By ATCS Eric Kinnaman VPU-1 CPO Mess held a silent members and clearly reassured auction to offer its members, their commitment to the proj- Six representatives of the past and present, the oppor- ect. VPU-1 Chiefs’ Mess visited tunity to obtain memorabilia “WWP strives to honor and the national headquarters of from its CPO Mess. empower Wounded Warriors the Wounded Warrior Project The sale of the command’s through programs aimed at the (WWP) on Belfort Road in historic items netted $1,100, mind, body, economic empow- Jacksonville. and by a unanimous vote, the erment and engagement,” Their July 18 mission was to WWP was selected as the char- explained McCarthy. “We continue providing assistance itable organization to which never leave a warrior behind.” to wounded comrades return- the proceeds would be donat- The VPU-1 Old Buzzards ing from the War on Terror by ed. Chiefs’ Mess encourages other donating $1,100 that was raised After the donation presenta- CPOAs and CPO Messes to at the CPOs’ sale of memora- tion, Wounded Warrior Project continue the Old Buzzards bilia, prior to the disestablish- Special Projects Director mission through donations to ment of the “Old Buzzards” Dan McCarthy led Dietrich, organizations such as this. squadron in August. ATCS(AW) Andrew Robertson, To donate or get involved “We really liked the thought ATCS(AW) Eric Kinnaman, with the Wounded Warrior of giving back to those who AWVC(NAC/AW) Daniel Project, email got@wounded- Photo courtesy of VPU-1 sacrificed so much for our Correa, AMCV(AW) Scott warriorproject.org or visit their (From left) AMC(AW) Scott Harris, ATCS(AW) Eric Kinnaman, country,” stated VPU-1 retired AFCM(AW/NAC) Steven Berry, AWVC(NAC/AW) Daniel Harris, and retired AFCM(AW/ website at www.wounded- Command Senior Enlisted Correa, ATCS(AW) Andrew Robertson and AWVCS(NAC/AW) NAC) Steven Berry on a tour of warriorproject.org. Leader AWVCS(NAC/AW) Mark Mark Dietrich visited the Wounded Warriors Project headquar- the WWP headquarters facility. All WWP programs are free. Dietrich. ters on July 18 to donate $1,100 raised from the sale of VPU-1 He detailed the organiza- To participate you must have “The organization’s prin- memorabilia. tion’s mission and the vari- incurred service-connected ciples and values were really brainer.” America’s Soldiers, Sailors, and ous programs they provide for wounds, injuries, or illness- aligned with those that the Old For more than 40 years, the Airmen on the field of battle. America’s wounded veterans. es on or after September 11, Buzzards have fought to instill Old Buzzards have dedicat- With the squadron’s disestab- The wide reach and scope of 2001. Verification of service is in our own Sailors. It was a no- ed their efforts to protecting lishment fast approaching, the WWP astounded the squadron required. HSL-42 From Page 1 During underway Replenish- smooth flight into Israeli air- ments (UNREP) the aircrew space. ing of the participating Israeli demonstrated advanced profi- July started with a port visit Dolphin class submarine. Det. ciency conducting VERTREPs to Souda Bay followed by sur- 3 demonstrated it’s strong ASW and passenger transfers, dras- veillance missions in the capability, through coordinated tically decreasing the time Eastern Mediterranean. Vella operations with allied aircraft required for the UNREP evolu- Gulf then steamed west to meet and surface forces. tions. the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Vella Gulf next set sail to exe- In May, the Norsemen (CVN 69) Carrier Strike Group. cute its BMD mission. The ship said farewell to Lt. Cmdr. The Proud Warriors conducted utilized the capabilities of Det. Thompson, Lt. Sullivan, AO1 parts runs and passenger trans- 3 as it maintained position to Pichardo, and AM3 Tobin. fers while Vella Gulf exercised provide ballistic missile protec- Likewise, Det. 3 welcomed Lt. with F/A-18 Hornets from the Photo courtesy of HSL-42 tion over Israel. Cmdr. Peter Eudy as the new strike group. Pilots, aircrew and maintainers of the HSL-42 Det. 3 "Norsemen" Proud Warrior 422 patrolled officer in charge. Without miss- In late July, Vella Gulf utilized their SH-60B Seahawk for a variety of missions flown the Eastern Mediterranean ing a beat, the Norsemen con- returned to Souda Bay for turn- from USS Vella Gulf during its seven-month Mediterranean waters and provided over-the- tinued supporting the ship’s over and then proceeded west deployment. horizon RMP, flying 40 percent BMD mission. to Rota, Spain and ultimately AE3 Gage Wilson. Henry, AMAN Katy Lallament, of their hours at night. In June, Det. 3 conduct- back to NS Mayport. Two sailors advanced to AD2 Stephen Linde, AWR3 Utilizing forward looking ed a life-saving MEDEVAC to Det. 3 returns having petty officer second-class: AT2 Alex Mahs, AD3 Alexis Tobar infrared, electronic support Rambam Medical Center in achieved advancements and Reuben Casas and AD2 Stephen and AE3 Gage Wilson. Lt. measures and night vision gog- Haifa, Israel. Close coordina- milestones across the board. Linde. Ben Peterman passed 1,000 gles, the aircrew consistently tion between the aircrew, Four sailors advanced to Seven sailors qualified as SH-60B Seahawk flight hours provided real-time intelligence ship operations team and the petty officer third-class: AZ3 Enlisted Air Warfare Specialists and AWR2 Michael Willems to the ship in a heavily traveled U.S. Defense Affairs Office in Latrasha Allende, AD3 Alexis (EAWS) underway: AZ3 reached the acclaimed 2,000- sea. Tel Aviv paved the way for a Tobar, AM3 Brandon Tobin, Latrasha Allende, AM2 Shane hour mark flying in the SH-60B. JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 9

PINECASTLEFrom Page 1 Laura LaBella and Brian Hinton of Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southeast Core; Christine Bauer, Tina Jackson and Bobby Simmons of NAS Jacksonville Environmental Department; and Chris Townsend and Lee Shults of Pinecastle Range Operations who provided escort, transportation and unexploded ordnance (UXO) support. The Navy has operated the Pinecastle Range Complex since the early 1950s to train aircrews and support personnel in ordnance delivery. The range is Photos courtesy of NAS Jax Environmental Dept. located in Marion County, Fla., within the boundaries (From left) Brian Hinton, Bobby Simmons, Christine of the Ocala National Forest. The United States Forest Bauer, Laura LaBella and Tina Jackson recently sur- (From left) Brian Hinton and Bobby Simmons use Service (USFS) manages the land and is the issu- veyed the Pinecastle Range Complex for endangered an iPad with speakers to call scrub jays along survey ing authority for use of the land. The range is under or threatened species of wildlife and plants. points at the Pinecastle Range Complex. administrative and scheduling control of Fleet Area Control and Surveillance Facility at NAS Jacksonville. Since 1951, the Navy has been authorized to operate the range under an interagency agreement between the USFS and the Department of the Navy. The agree- ment was extended through July 2001, at which time a draft Environmental Impact Study (EIS) was issued for authorization of military use of the range for 20 years through issuance of a Special Use Permit (SUP). On Oct. 29, 2001, a biological opinion (BO) was A gopher tortoise burrow provides shelter from extreme hot or cold temperatures, as well as a safe issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that place from predators. Burrows average 6-8 feet deep required, as a mitigation measure for issuance of the and the entrance is shaped relatively the same as the SUP, the agreement to monitor certain plants and ani- tortoise (oval). mals that were listed as “threatened” or “endangered” (From left) Laura LaBella, George Kenny and Bobby because they were considered to be at risk for extinc- and impending thunder storms could account for the Simmons commandeered an armored personnel car- tion. birds’ desire to stay deep in the trees. rier to visit environmental survey points deep in the Activities such as habitat destruction, poaching and Survey personnel observed Florida bonamia plants Ocala National Forest that are part of the Pinecastle the pet trade, along with climate change and disease, and sand skink tracks at several data points along Range Complex. increase the probability of species loss. Under the the survey route. Active gopher tortoise burrows were Endangered Species Act (ESA), the government pro- examined for the presence of eastern indigo snakes tects endangered and threatened plants and animals that frequently share the burrows. None were found. (listed species) and the habitats upon which they While it is known that eastern indigo snakes inhabit depend. the range, they are very elusive and seldom seen. The ESA requires federal agencies to ensure that any The survey route follows data points along fire- action they authorize, fund or carry out, will not likely breaks in and around the target impact area. These jeopardize the continued existence of these species, or firebreaks consist of deep sand that even the NAS Jax adversely affect any critical habitat. 4x4 forestry truck could not power through. The range BO requires monitoring surveys to be Several of the more adventurous surveyors piled conducted every four years for the following species: into a surplus military Humvee with Bobby Simmons Florida scrub jay (threatened); Wood stork (endan- at the wheel. This vehicle proved to be a good choice gered); Eastern indigo snake (threatened); Sand skink for overcoming deep sand and obstacles such as fall- (threatened); Florida bonamia (threatened); Scrub en trees. The good news was that sand skink tracks Photo by Christine Bauer buckwheat (treatened); and Scrub milkwort (endan- and Florida bonamia plants were observed in several Two Florida scrub jays in the brush at the Pinecastle gered). areas, and all indications are that the habitat is sup- Range Complex. The birds occupy year-round ter- Monitoring surveys were conducted by USFS in porting a healthy population of jays. ritories averaging 22 acres in size. They are currently 2001 and 2004, with the support of Pinecastle Range The frequent fires ignited by range activity maintain listed on the Threatened Species list. Operations personnel. In 2007, NAS Jacksonville and the early scrub oak habitat that is preferred by the NAVFAC Southeast assisted the USFS with the surveys scrub jay, and also benefits other species including the agencies. Surveyors were able to find suitable sites through funding from U.S. Fleet Forces Command. gopher tortoise. that would accommodate gopher tortoises that must During the 2007 survey, 109 Florida scrub jays were The gopher tortoise is an ESA candidate species be relocated from the range’s live impact area. observed. To call scrub jays out into the open, an iPod for listing as “threatened” due to loss of habitat. The The products from this survey will be a monitoring with speakers was used. A number of males, females Department of Defense is a partner in the Gopher report on the listed species and a gopher tortoise habi- and juveniles, as well as family groups were record- Tortoise Candidate Conservation Agreement with the tat suitability study that will be coordinated with the ed. Although many jays responded, they were not as Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission plentiful as in previous surveys. The extreme heat (FWC) and other state, federal and non-government and the USFS. 10 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 Navy Systematic Biological Collection: 350,000 specimens and growing By Lt. Marcus McDonough fication is the cornerstone of NECE Public Affairs pest management operations. Proper pest identification is The Navy Systematic Biolo- needed to correctly prescribe gical Collection, housed at control measures. the Navy Entomology Center “The training collection is of Excellence (NECE) at NAS also used to provide specimens Jacksonville, is a one-of-a to the Joint Service Training kind reference tool within the School in San Antonio, Texas as Department of Defense (DoD). Dr. Andrew Beck, NECE train- well as the Independent Duty The 350,000-specimen col- ing department head, exam- Corpsman School,” said Beck. lection focuses mainly on ines a specimen from the The The public affairs collec- mosquitoes, flies and gnats. Navy Systematic Biological tion consists of large, “showy” Other insects along with plant, Collection. insects that are used for out- marine, arachnid, snake and preventive medicine techni- reach activities. fossil specimens are also repre- cians and entomologists to “NECE has a strong connec- sented. have a better understanding of tion to its local community. The collection started in 1949 the pests they will face when We present the public affairs as a repository for medically deployed. collection when we visit local significant pest collected by the The training collection is also schools for presentations on Photos courtesy of NECE Malaria Control teams in the The NECE Public Affairs Collection consists of large, impactful used to teach courses at NECE entomology,” said Beck. “There Pacific. insects that are used for outreach activities in the community. and other commands, such as are several different displays According to Dr. Andrew insect identification to civil- set up depending on the age Beck, NECE training depart- Charge Cmdr. Eric Hoffman. stand their biology and apply ian employees and contractors group to which we are present- ment head and curator of the The collection is housed in this knowledge to effectively during the Category 8 Pesticide ing.” collection, the biological col- three parts: the systematic col- develop and implement control Applicator Certification and For more information about lection represents specimens lection, training collection and strategies against those that Re-certification courses. This utilizing the biological collec- from every continent, except public affairs collection. transmit human disease,” said ensures that all pest manage- tion or scheduling an outreach Antarctica. “The systematic collection Hoffman. ment professionals working on event, contact NECE at 542- “This extensive, carefully cat- carries on the original goal of The training collection is DoD facilities are able to pro- 2424. alogued collection exemplifies the collection, as a repository used to teach service mem- vide effective pest control and For more information about NECE’s wide range of unique for specimens. This enhances bers which pests are present in safely apply pesticides in accor- medical entomology visit the capabilities and commitment our ability to accurately iden- areas they are deploying to and dance with DoD and EPA regu- NECE website at: http://www. to the success of our custom- tify a diversity of specimens how to distinguish them from lations. nmcphc.med.navy.mil/Field_ ers,” said NECE Officer-in- collected world wide, under- similar insects. This allows According to Beck, identi- Activities/nece_overview.aspx. ‘Nomads’ thank local employers with ESGR ‘Boss Lift’ event By AWFCS Mike Wendelin As a result, civilian employers play a critical role by complying with existing employment The VR-62 “Nomads” participated in an event laws protecting the rights of workers who serve July 20 to thank local employers of Reserve and in the Reserves or National Guard. Guard personnel. VR-62 is a Navy Fleet Logistics Support The ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard Squadron stationed at NAS Jacksonville. The and Reserve) Boss Lift event provided guests the squadron is assigned four C-130T aircraft that opportunity to visit NAS Jacksonville Hangar fly missions around the globe in support of 1000 and tour a Navy C-130T Hercules and a the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The Navy C-40A Clipper aircraft. Nomads are comprised of 125 active duty and 57 ESGR events are endorsed by the Department reserve members. of Defense to promote cooperation and under- VR-62 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Alex standing between Reserve component members Ellermann commented, “The ESGR events pro- and their civilian employers. vide us the opportunity to show our apprecia- America’s Reserve components comprise tion to the employers of our Reserve personnel. approximately 48 percent of total available mili- Their sacrifice is vital to our mission and we Photo courtesy of VR-62 Lt. Cmdr. James Lawson of VR-62 (left) explains about the tary manpower – and play a critical role in our truly appreciate their support.” C-130T cargo area to USPS Maintenance Supervisor Juan country’s National Defense Strategy. Corominas and USPS maintenance manager Johnnie Pollard. Because of the current high operational They were invited to the event by their Reserve employee, AE2 tempo, Reserve forces are spending more time Canarius Thompson. away from the workplace to defend the nation. JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 11 VP-30 instructors join beautification team From NAS Jax Environmental Department

A team of instructors from VP-30 joined a commu- nity beautification event July 27 at Castaway Island Preserve, a nature park on Intracoastal Waterway off San Pablo Road between Beach and Atlantic Boulevards. The project involved spreading bales of pine straw in the landscaped gardens, installing some new plants around the education building, trimming back over- Photos courtesy of NAS Jax Environmental Department grown vegetation, pulling weeds and removing trash. VP-30 instructors were among volunteers July 27 Natural Resource Recreation Specialist Brian spreading pine straw and trimming vegetation at Burket, with City of Jacksonville Parks and Recreation, Castaway Island Preserve near the Intracoastal said, “Our Navy volunteers lead by example and are Waterway. great to people to work with. Their effort has made The park is adjacent to an intricate salt marsh eco- Community volunteers from VP-30 gather at the Castaway Island Preserve a favorite destination along system that is ideal for watching marshland wildlife. Castaway Island Preserve education center after put- the Intracoastal Waterway.” Visitors may stroll along the wooden boardwalk, ting in a full day's work cleaning and landscaping. One of Jacksonville’s premier preservation proper- take in the view from an observation platform over- ties, Castaway Island Preserve attracts visitors with its looking the waterway or learn about the flora and nature trail. The park also has a floating canoe/kayak marshy banks and lush trails. fauna of Northeast Florida along the park’s interactive launch and theater-style education center. Doing good deeds in Japan Photos by MC2 Pedro Rodriguez

NAF Misawa CPO 365 program members work on the foundation of a building at the Aomori Christian Center in northern Japan.

CPO 365 Program members from Naval Air Facility (NAF) Misawa, Japan, and VP-8 move firewood to storage on July 27 at the Aomori Christian Center. NAF Misawa chief petty officers and first class petty officers spent the day chopping and storing firewood, as well as improving the foundation of one of the buildings VP-8 "Fighting Tigers" and laying cement for a sidewalk. AS1 Constantino Ramos and AM1 Tomasz Zarski place a log on a wheel- barrow that will be used to move it into the fire- wood storage area at the Aomori Christian Center near NAF Misawa. 12 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 ‘Joining Forces’ initiative exceeds expectations By Lisa Daniel American Forces Press Service for all social workers to better “This really represents, understand the unique needs to me, not just the impact- When first lady Michelle of military families. It also is ful piece, but the sustaining Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife providing a set of standards piece,” Cooper said. of Vice President Joe Biden for working with veterans and Spouses’ and veterans’ started the “Joining Forces” military families, and is creat- employment also has made campaign 15 months ago, they ing a professional Credential major strides, Cooper said. did so with the goal of creating for Social Work with Veterans More than 2,000 companies impactful and lasting health, and Military Families. have signed on already hir- education and employment Social workers are con- ing 25,000 spouses and 65,000 support for military families. sidered the nation’s frontline veterans, and pledging to hire The campaign had two sig- mental health services provid- another 175,000 in the next two nificant achievements this ers, and they practice in every years, helping bring down the week that its director, Navy county in the country. veterans’ unemployment rate, Capt. Brad Cooper said July 27, Its pledge to Joining Forces he said. hit both of those marks. follows that of the four larg- “This really is the largest First, North Carolina became Photo by Clark Pierce est nursing associations, outreach and advocacy efforts the 26th state to pass a law First lady Michelle Obama joined hundreds of military and civil- representing 3 million nurs- we’ve had on behalf of veterans making it easier for military ian well wishers at NAS Jacksonville April 12 to celebrate the es, and the Association of and their families for years,” spouses to transfer their pro- first anniversary of “Joining Forces” – the initiative that Obama American Medical Colleges Cooper said. fessional licenses. and Dr. Jill Biden launched in 2011 to recognize, honor and and the American Association Joining Forces has been South Carolina and Hawaii serve military families. of Colleges of Osteopathic successful, he said, because passed similar laws in recent Medicine, with 105 and 25 “we’ve been able to bring peo- weeks, potentially affecting said. even to indicate they were mili- schools, respectively, in train- ple together and focus them tens of thousands of military “As I take a step back and tary spouses to prospective ing doctors to serve military on the effort.” All they needed spouses, Cooper said. With look at this – and my dad was employers,” he said. families and veterans. was leadership and direction, similar legislation pend- an Army officer – this signals Second, the National The Association of Marriage he added. ing in California, Ohio and a pretty remarkable cultural Association of Social Workers, and Therapy Therapists also “People, generally, want to New Jersey, the campaign is shift,” Cooper said. at its annual convention in has signed on, as well as asso- be helpful,” Cooper said. “They “exceeding our expectations” “I remember my mother – as Washington D.C. this week, ciations representing psychia- don’t always know what they in getting laws passed in all well as my wife, and spouses announced it is launching a trists, psychologists and sur- can do. Our objective is to steer 50 states by the end of 2014, he of my friends – were reluctant free, online training course geons. them to meaningful action.” Veterans Special Recognition Ceremony coming to NAS Jax on Nov. 8 From the Office of Congressman deadline is Oct. 5. Special Recognition Ceremony at NAS crenshaw.house.gov. Go to Constituent Ander Crenshaw “All service branches were involved in Jacksonville. The program is always one Services, then Special Events & Notices, a joint effort during Desert Shield and of the highlights of my year.” and lastly the Veterans Recognition U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw, a mem- Desert Storm operations, serving our Desert Shield and Desert Storm Ceremony to download the press ber of the U.S. House Defense country on land, in the air and in ter- veterans who live in the Fourth release and application. Completed Appropriations Subcommittee, ritorial waters in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Congressional District and would like applications and documentation should announced that his 2012 Veterans Qatar, Turkey, Syria and beyond,” said to participate are strongly encouraged be mailed to: 1061 Riverside Avenue, Special Recognition Ceremony will Crenshaw. “Like the veterans before to contact Crenshaw’s district offices in Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL 32204. honor Fourth Congressional District them, they deserve recognition and Jacksonville at (904) 598-0481, on the To determine eligibility for the cer- Operation Desert Shield and Desert thanks for putting their lives at stake for mobile office phone at (386) 365-3316, or tificate, veterans must complete an Storm veterans. Those eligible for the our country. on the district toll free line from the 850 application and submit a copy of their honor will receive certificates of spe- On Nov. 8, I look forward to honoring area code at 888-755-5607. DD-214. Veterans who received the cial recognition in a ceremony at NAS eligible Desert Shield and Desert Storm The application can also be obtained Southwest Asia Service Medal qualify Jacksonville Nov. 8. The registration veterans during my annual Veterans on Crenshaw’s official website at www. for this program. Community Calendar Second (Indianhead) Divi- fourth Thurs. of each month Mentoring Program by of each month at 7:30 p.m. tired Federal Employees sion Association reunion at 5 p.m. at the Urban Naval Services Family at the clubhouse (Building Clay County Chapter 1414 is in Reno, Nev. Aug. 23- League, 903 W. Union Line. Help others help 1956) adjacent to Mulberry meets at 12:30 p.m. on the 26. Go to www.2ida.org Street. Contact Lt. Cmdr. themselves. Call Melanie Cove Marina. Open to second Tues. of each month or contact Bob Haynes at Paul Nix at 422-8480 or at 904-200-7751 or email: active duty, reserve and at the Orange Park Library, [email protected] or email Paul24navy@aol. COMPASSMayport@ retired military, plus, active 2054 Plainfield Avenue. Call (224) 225-1202. com. NSFamilyLine.org or retired DoD civilians. 276-9415. Late Summer Garden Disabled American Veter- Association of Aviation Call 778-0805 or email Ladies Auxiliary of Fleet Care is Aug. 28 at Webb ans Chapter 38 meets the Ordnancemen meets [email protected]. Reserve Unit 126 meets Wesconnett Library, 6887 second Tues. of each month the third Thurs. of each Orange Park Lions Club the second Thurs. of each 103rd St. Register at 255- at 7 p.m. at 470 Madeira month at 7 p.m. at the Fleet meets the second and month at 10 a.m. at the 7450 or email beckyd@coj. Dr., Orange Park. Service Reserve Center on Collins fourth Mon. at 7 p.m. at 423 Fleet Reserve Building, net. officers available Mon. thru Road. For information, visit McIntosh Avenue, Orange 7673 Blanding Blvd. Call Bikers for America’s Bra- Fri., 9 a.m – 2 p.m. to help www.aao9.com. Park. For more information, 771-6850. vest Festival is Sept. 8 at with VA claims, call 269- Retired Activities Office call 298-1967. Retired Enlisted Town Hall Park in Orange 2945 for an appointment. (RAO) at NAS Jax Fleet National Active and Re- Association meets the Park. Poker run, bike Bingo every Thursday and Family Support Center tired Federal Employees fourth Wed. of each month at and car show. Call 614- from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and (FFSC) needs volunteers to Westside Jacksonville 1 p.m. at the Fleet Reserve 1024 or register at www. Saturday from 10 a.m. - 3 assist military retirees and Chapter 1984 meets at 1 Hall at 7673 Blanding Blvd. tunneltotowers.org p.m. The public is welcome. dependents. Work three p.m. on the fourth Thurs. of Call 772-8622 or 771-8696. Boselli 5K Mud Run and Navy Wives Clubs of hours a day, one day per each month at the Murray Kids Mud Run is Sept. 15 at America Jax No. 86 meets week. Call 542-2766 ext. Hill United Methodist the Jacksonville Equestrian the first Wed. of each month 126 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Church, (Fellowship Hall Center. The event features at 7 p.m. in Building 857 (at weekdays to volunteer. Building) at 4101 College more than 30 professionally NAS Jax main gate behind Navy Jacksonville Yacht Street. Call 786-7083. built obstacles and some of Navy-Marine Corps Relief Club meets the first Wed. National Active and Re- the muddiest pits ever. Sign Society). Not So New Shop up at www.bosellimudrun. open Tues. and Thurs. (9 com or email shana@ a.m. to 1 p.m.). Call 542- bosellimudrun.com. 1582 for info. First Coast Heart Walk Navy Wives Clubs of is Sept. 22 at Metropolitan America DID No. 300 Park. Contact Kelly Johnson meets the second Thurs. of at [email protected] each month at 7 p.m. at the or 256-5721. Oak Crest United Methodist Military Officers Church Education Building Association of America at 5900 Ricker Road. Call N.E. Florida Chapter meets 387-4332 or 272-9489. the third Wed. of each Fleet Reserve Association month. Open to active duty Branch 290 monthly and retirees of all military meeting is the first Thurs. branches. Contact Johnnie. at 8 p.m., 390 Mayport Rd., [email protected] or call Atlantic Beach. Call 246- 282-4650. 6855. National Naval Officers COMPASS Spouse- Association meets the to-Spouse Military JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 13 HHS to help veterans get jobs as physician assistants From Department of Health Federal program and Human Services Funding priority was given to save a life here at home,” Sebelius grantees that have strong recruit- said. Health and Human Services ment, retention and education “These grants will help ensure (HHS) Secretary Kathleen programs for veteran applicants veterans who served our coun- helps Sailors Sebelius announced Aug. 2 $2.3 and students – including academ- try can use their military medical million in grants to train primary ic recognition of medical train- training and get good jobs serving care physician assistants by help- ing and experience gained during patients.” ing veterans transition from mili- military service. serve again The grants, awarded to 12 insti- tary to civilian physician assistant Administered by the Health tutions, support educational pro- From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs careers when they return home. Resources and Services Admini- Funded under the Physician stration at HHS, the grants are grams that train physician assis- Sailors transitioning from the Navy who would like Assistant Training in Primary part of the administration’s ini- tants to practice in primary care to pursue a career in teaching may be eligible for assis- Care Program, the five-year tiative to increase the supply of settings, and help individuals who tance and monetary compensation from a federal pro- grants aim to increase the number primary care practitioners in the will teach primary care in physi- gram called Troops to Teachers (TTT), officials said Aug. of physician assistant graduates United States. cian assistant training programs, 2. who become primary care clini- “If you can save a life on the bat- preparing trainees to enter prac- “Our classrooms are looking for leadership and cians and teachers, officials said. tlefield in Afghanistan, you can tice in primary care settings. service members bring that to the classroom,” said Cliff Yager, TTT regional director for Tennessee and Northern Alabama. “Service members understand lead- ership, management, organizational skills and those Uncle reenlists are skills we need in the classroom today.” Last year, TTT helped nearly 2,000 former service members begin new careers as teachers, but, Yager NAS Jax Sailor admits that – just like the military – teaching is not for ITC(Select) Kevin Benedict of NAS everyone. Jacksonville Executive Department, “The thing they need to ask themselves is whether right, is reenlisted by his uncle, Rear they are passionate about teaching, being involved with Adm. Terry Benedict, director, Strategic parents, and making a difference in young children’s Systems Programs during a ceremony lives,” Yager said. Aug. 2. Benedict has served in the Navy TTT provides counseling and referral services to eli- for 11 years and was reenlisted for gible service members and veterans interested in begin- another three years of naval service. ning a second career in public education as a teacher. State TTT will help applicants identify teacher certifi- cation requirements, programs leading to certification Photo by NC1 Tomeka McDonald and employment opportunities in their state. According to Yager, TTT offers funded and unfunded assistance based on an individual’s military service. Funded assistance provides financial support for both the certification process and for employment in a high need school. Unfunded assistance offers counseling and assistance regarding certification. Math, chemistry, physics, special education and foreign languages have the greatest demand for teachers according to Yager. “There is a tremendous amount of opportunity avail- able in those areas, especially for male teachers in ele- mentary and middle school arenas.” Yager suggests Sailors try volunteering with a local school or even work as a substitute teacher when their schedule permits in order to determine if teaching is right for them. Sailors may get more information and guidance by speaking with the TTT representative in the state where they would like to teach. TTT is managed by the Defense Activity for Non-traditional Education Support (DANTES). It was established in 1994 with the primary objective of helping qualified service members suc- cessfully transition into careers in teaching. Sailors can learn more about Troops to Teachers at their website: www.proudtoserveagain.com. 14 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012

Photos by Victor Pitts In the Fleet Readiness Center Southeast Paraloft, PR3(AW) Kayla Harris (left) and PR3 Julio Gonzalez hold up suspension lines during a continuity check fol- PR1(AW/SW) Matthew Olsen retrieves a parachute lowing a canopy replacement on an NES-14 parachute in the Fleet Readiness Center Southeast Paraloft at ready for issue to a P-3 Orion aircraft squadron. Hangar 1000, aboard NAS Jacksonville on July 18. Aircrew survival equipment must work the first time, every There is no margin for error when an Aircrew time if aircrew members are to make it home safely. Survival Equipmentman inspects, repairs and packs the lifesaving equipment.

ByFRCSE Marsha Childs Sailors keep survival equipment ready for any emergency

In the Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) 800 Division at NAS Jacksonville, Sailors ensure aircrew survival equipment is ready to perform properly when emergency conditions arise. About 40 Sailors inspect, maintain and repair a wide variety of survival equipment including parachutes, life In the Flotation Shop at Fleet Readiness rafts and personal flight gear to ensure Center Southeast, PR1(AW/SW) PR3 Joe Jackson inspects an oxygen the items are in proper working condi- Michael Benjamin (left) inspects a PRAN Linda Jackson installs chaff- regulator using a recently purchased tion. 12-man life raft as PRAA Melissa King Portable Oxygen Regulator Test System “If we’ve done our job right, you’re ing covers on a lifejacket in the Fleet inspects bags of emergency drinking Readiness Center Southeast Flotation at Fleet Readiness Center Southeast. going to make it home,” said PR1 water contained in the raft's survival Shop at Hangar 1000 on Naval Air kit along with medical items, sea dye Matthew Olsen, the Aviation Life Station Jacksonville. The covers pro- protective equipment from other air- Support Systems (ALSS) production markers, a radio and other items need- craft undergoing depot-level repairs at tect the two CO2 cartridges that inflate ed until rescue teams arrive. control leading petty officer. each flotation vest should the aircrew the facility, such as the F/A-18 Hornet The 800 Division includes the members need a life vest in an emer- well as liquid oxygen converters Strike Fighter and the EA-6B Prowler Parachute Shop, also called the gency situation. removed from aircraft. We also perform electronic warfare aircraft. “paraloft,” the Flotation Shop, the oxygen analysis.” Olsen said the PR rating motto is “The Oxygen Shop, and ALSS Production PRs routinely performs scheduled last to let you down.” Survival equip- Control where survival equipment is and unscheduled intermediate-level ment is something he hopes his ship- received and issued. maintenance on survival equipment mates will never have to use; however, if “Everything we work on in the used on the P-3 Orion Maritime Patrol they do it must not fail. Paraloft and the Flotation Shop is used aircraft, the HH-60H Seahawk helicop- The Aircrew Survival Equipmentman only in an emergency; therefore, there ter and the C-130 Hercules logistics air- was originally called a Parachute Rigger are no functional tests that can be craft. until the rating was formally changed to done,” said Olsen. “If that gear is used, it In addition, they maintain and repair its current name in 1965. must work the first time, every time. We are very meticulous with our inspec- tions.” In the Parachute Shop, riggers pack, rig and repair parachutes. According to the PR manual, there are three basic types of Navy parachutes: the Navy back (NB), the Navy chest (NC), and the Navy ejection system (NES). Aircraft that do not have ejection seat systems utilize the NB and NC parachutes. Pilots use NES parachutes in ejection seat aircraft. When a pilot or aircrewmen must PR3 Sentel Williams (seated) repairs abandon an aircraft in a hurry, this life- an oxygen regulator that provides the saving gear must work to ensure their proper mixture of oxygen and ambi- survivability. Parachutes may also be ent air to a pilot during high altitude the only means of delivering badly flights, as PR3 Joe Jackson tests another needed medicines, goods, and other regulator in the Fleet Readiness Center supplies to isolated victims. Southeast Oxygen Shop. The Flotation Shop is responsible for rafts to hold the crew and passengers. the proper inspection, maintenance PRs assigned to the Oxygen Shop and handling of life preservers worn by troubleshoot the specialized oxygen personnel on over-water flights. These breathing systems used by pilots and lifesaving vests keep aircrew members aircrews for military aviation opera- afloat until a rescue team arrives. tions. They are critical life support sys- The shop also inspects, packs, and tems that supplement oxygen during maintains life rafts and related equip- high altitude flights. ment carried in an aircraft. Naval air- “We work on various oxygen sys- craft that make operational flights over tems,” said Olsen. “We repair and test water are required to carry enough life oxygen regulators and manifolds, as JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 15

45-minute, high-intensity Golf & Dine Special group training Armed Forces Vacation Club Resort Play 18-holes with cart and choice of Condo Rentals breakfast or lunch for $26! Family Fitness Center (located above www.afvclub.com installation code #62 Not applicable on holidays. the Youth Center Gym) Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Tampa Zoo - $19 Adult - $17.50 Child After-12:30 p.m. Special For more info, call Melissa Luehrs at Play 18 holes for $17, cart and green fees 542-3518. Now booking all-inclusive Sandals and included Super-Clubs Resorts vacations Valid 7 days a week including holidays New Extreme Boot Camp fitness class Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. behind the Jacksonville Zoo - Adult $12, Child $7 fitness center Monday & Tuesday – Play 18 holes for MOSH $7 - $12 $20, cart and green fees included Outdoor Pool Open to military and DoD, not appli- Monday - Sunday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Blue Man Group Orlando - $59, includes cable on holidays Free for military and DoD civilians, $3 City Walk venue for guests Mulberry Cove Marina Learn-to-swim session two begins July Jax Suns Baseball $5.50-$11.50 Call 542-3260. 9, session three begins July 23 Free Kayak & Canoe Rental Lessons are available at the indoor and Adventure Landing Season Pass - Every Thursday for active duty outdoor pool $86.50 $40 military, $45 DoD Combo $32, Wet pass $21, 5 attractions Skipper “B” Lessons Register for swim lessons at base gym $20 $150 per person The Zone August 17, 18, 19, 25 & 26 I.T.T. Events Medieval Times – Free royalty upgrade Entertainment Complex Call 542-3318. with dinner reservation Free Stand-up Paddle Board Lesson Call 542-3521 Thursday, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Monster Truck Jam The Vault Liberty Monday Pizza Madness Feb. 23, 2013 Recreation Center Auto Skills Center $5 for 14” one-topping pizza Preferred seating - $42, lower-level Call 542-3227 2:30 - 9 p.m., dine in or carry out only seating $22 Trips, activities and costs may be 22 work bays, wheel balancing, tool restricted to E1-E6 single or unaccom- checkout, paint booth and welding Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament Trapeze High Florida panied active duty members. Call 542- Monday & Thursday at 7 p.m. Fleming Island - $35 per person 1335 for information. ASE-certified mechanic onsite Youth Activities Center Freedom Lanes Scenic St. Augustine Cruise Jax Suns Baseball Call 778-9772 Adult $11.75, child $5.50 August 9 at 6:30 p.m. Bowling Center Drop-in care and open recreation avail- Call 542-3493. Wet N Wild Orlando Jacksonville Jaguars Game able Wednesday Adult $34, child $29 August 10 at 6 p.m. Family Fitness Center open Monday - Free bowling for active duty Blast Away Beach is now open! Free admission and transportation Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 11 a.m .- 1 p.m. Bring your child to work out with you Live Broadway Series River Day at Mulberry Cove Marina Wednesday Evening Bowling Special West Side Story - Dec. 8 August 11, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Register now for before- & after-school 4 - 10 p.m. All you can bowl for $5.95 Mary Poppins - Jan. 26 Enjoy free tubing, wakeboarding, kaya- program Shoe rental not included Billy Elliot - March 2 king, stand-up paddle boarding, games Ages 5 (starting kindergarten) through Rock of Ages - April 6 and more! 12 Saturday Night Extreme Bowling Fees based on household income 7 p.m. – midnight Legoland – 1 day $45.50, 1 day w/water Dave & Buster’s Trip $11 per person for two hours of bowling park $52.75, 2 days $54.50, 2 days w/ Free $10 game card and 20 percent Flying Club Shoe rental included water park $58.75 off food & beverages Call 777-8549 August 16, 6 p.m. Ground School Book your birthday party with us! NFL Jacksonville Jaguar Tickets - $58.50 September 10 – October 17 Packages include bowling, shoe rental, sections 146 & 147 NAS Jax Golf Club kid’s meal, cake, balloons and more! Jaguar game shuttle - $12 Golf course info: 542-3249 $500 per person Mulligan’s info: 542-2936 Fitness & Aquatics Wild Adventures Theme Park Military Appreciation Days Youth Flight Camps (ages 12 – 18) Call 542-2930 1 day $29.50, 2 days $40 $18 per person, includes cart & green Advanced Aviation Course (basic fees course required) Command Circuit Training Disney World Orlando August 10 & 24 for active duty $150 per person Tuesday & Thursday 4-day Hopper Armed Forces Salute August 12 & 26 for retirees & August 22 - 25 register by August 14 8 a.m. in the base gym ticket- $135 - $162 DoD personnel 16 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 NAS Jax Sports Jacksonville Jaguars Captain’s Cup 3-on-3 Sand Volleyball meeting – Aug. 22 Standings Open to all NAS Jax active duty, command DoD, DoD contractors and selective As of Aug. 3 tickets available at USO reservists. Meet at noon in the base From the USO gym. Commands whose athletic officer Captain’s Cup Singles bers are eligible to pur- approved by the USO or designated representative attends will Badminton chase/use these tickets. Center director. receive five Captain’s Cup points. The Team Wins Losses T h e N A S Ja x , N S Retirees and Veterans/ Single service members Bonser 10 1 games play at lunchtime. Mayport and NSB Kings DoD employees are eli- may purchase a maxi- Carolan 9 1 Bay USO offices are gible to purchase tickets mum of two tickets, one Captain’s Cup Badminton Tenchavez 7 1 Doubles meeting – Aug. 29 Cannizzaro 4 1 now selling tickets to for New York Giants and for their use and one for a Fabia 7 3 all Jacksonville Jaguars Atlanta Falcons games. guest. No exceptions. Open to all NAS Jax active duty, command Smith 7 5 home games. All tickets M i l ita r y person nel For deployable com- DoD, DoD contractors and selective Drost 4 5 are located in the 200 with authorized depen- mands, a request for a reservists. Meet at noon in the base Robenson 3 5 section, lower area in the dents may buy a maxi- “block of game day tick- gym. Commands whose athletic officer Hurst 2 6 Hasanic 2 7 north end zone. mum of four tickets if ets” may be requested or designated representative attends will Acton 1 7 Aug. 10, 7:30 p.m. – member and dependents by CO/XO/CMC only receive five Captain’s Cup points. The Brown 1 8 Jags vs. New York Giants equal four. If you have to the executive direc- games play at lunchtime. Intramural Summer Golf (Tickets now on sale) less than four, you may tor. These blocks may be Men and Women’s Racquetball Team Wins Losses P-30 6 0 Aug. 30, 6:30 p.m. – only purchase total for approved for commands Tourney – Aug. 27-31 Jags vs. Atlanta Falcons family. either deploying or NCTS 5 1 The tournament is free and open to all VP-10 5 1 (Tickets now on sale) Spouses may purchase returning during the sea- authorized gym patrons over 18. There CBMU-202 4 2 Sept. 16, 1 p.m. – Jags tickets for military per- son. Requests, with justi- will be a recreational division and a PSD/TPU 4 2 v s. Hou ston Te x a n s sonnel, but under no cir- fication, must be sent to VR-58 4 2 competitive division, as well as an open (Tickets on sale Sept. 4) cumstances are depen- John Shockley at jshock- FRCSE 3 3 division for women. Matches begin at 5 Sept. 30, 4:05 p.m. dent children authorized [email protected] . SERCC Blue 2 3 p.m. Call the base gym to sign up by Aug. SERCC Gold 2 3 – Jags vs. Cincinnati to represent the service If anyone is caught pur- CNATTU Gold 2 4 Bengals (Tickets on sale member/spouse to pur- chasing excess tickets or 22. For more information, call 542- VR-62 2 4 Sept. 17) chase tickets. reselling tickets he/she VP-26 1 2 2930/3239 or e-mail bill.bonser@navy. Oct. 7, 4:05 p.m. – Larger families desir- will be prohibited from AIR OPS 1 5 mil. Jags vs. Chicago Bears ing to purchase in excess buying any more tickets CNATTU Blue 1 5 (Tickets on sale Sept. 24) of four tickets must be for the entire season. Nov. 4, 1 p.m. – Jags vs. ® Detroit Lions (Tickets on healthy baby MISSION: A Partnership of the March of Dimes and the VFW sale Oct. 22) ® Nov. 8, 8:20 p.m. – Jags healthy baby vs. Indianapolis Colts MISSION: A Partnership of the March of Dimes and the VFW (Tickets on sale Oct. 29) A free wellness program that supports military moms before,® Nov. 25, 1 p.m. – during and after pregnancy.healthy Created by the baby March of Dimes, Jags vs. Tennessee withMISSION: the VFW and the ALadies Partnership Auxiliary of the March VFW. of Dimes and the VFW Titans (Tickets on sale

Nov. 12) Provided as a public service a CFC participant ® marchofdimes.com/vfw Dec. 9, 1 p.m. – Jags vs. healthy baby New York Jets (Tickets on MISSION: A Partnership of the March of Dimes and the VFW sale Nov. 26) Dec. 23, 1 p.m. – Jags vs. New England Patriots (Tickets on sale Dec. 10) Jaguars ticket sales will begin at noon per the above schedule. Tickets are first come, first served. Price is $15 per ticket (cash only). All active duty members including Florida National Guard, Reservists on active duty orders and family mem- JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012 17

NAWCADBy MC3(SW) Tristan Miller showcases unmanned aircraft Defense Media Activity - Navy

Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) highlighted recent progress in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) July 31 as part of the unmanned aviation and strike weapons program at NAS Patuxent River, Md. Unmanned aircraft such as the X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System Demonstrator (UCAS-D), MQ-8B Fire Scout and the Broad Area Maritime U.S. Navy photo Surveillance System (BAMS) were The Navy X-47B unmanned aerial vehi- among the systems displayed during cle launches safely July 29 from NAS the event. Patuxent River, Md. for a 35-minute “We focus ourselves on a vision, test flight over the Chesapeake Bay. a vision to provide our joint naval area is take the entire aircraft carrier and coalition warfighters that and digitize it, so we can get that situ- lethal, interoperable and affordable ational awareness needed to blend that unmanned aviation and strike weap- unmanned aircraft into manned opera- ons capabilities today and into the Photo by MC3 Tristan Miller tions without disrupting that critical Rear Adm. Mathias Winter, program executive officer for Unmanned Aviation and future,” said Program Executive Officer flow” said Cmdr. Jeff Dodge, carrier Strike Weapons, speaks with media July 31 about the X-47B Unmanned Combat for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Air System Demonstrator (UCAS-D) and other unmanned systems during a press integration team lead. Weapons, Rear Adm. Mathias Winter. conference at NAS Patuxent River, Md. The Navy made history July 29, when He spoke about current and future it conducted NAS Pax River’s first flight operations of the program and how it national security of the United States of talked about is the X-47B Unmanned of the X-47B. It departed Pax River and supports the Chief of Naval Operations’ America is maintained through warf- Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstra- flew for 35 minutes. tenets of: Warfighting First, Operate ighting capabilities in the hands of our tor. This aircraft utilizes the specialized The aircraft reached an altitude of Forward, and Be Ready. warfighters.” testing capabilities and facilities avail- 7,500 feet and an air speed of 180 knots “We’re making sure we are focused The highlighted aircraft are designed able at Pax River in the near future to during its flight. on that warfighter, we’re not here to support persistent, penetrating sur- validate the X-47B’s ability to perform in NAWCAD is comprised of 13,000 because we have nothing else to do,” veillance and penetrating strike capa- an aircraft carrier environment. engineers, flight test engineers, scien- said Winter. bility in high-threat-level areas. “What we had to do to get an tist and research development acquisi- “We are here to ensure that the One of those capabilities Winter unmanned aircraft to operate in that tion test and evaluation specialist. Four Community Ospreys Clusters completed Panetta: in Haiti grounded in Japan, From Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast Public Affairs pending investigation By Claudette Roulo The Resident Officer in Charge American Forces Press Service of Construction (ROICC) Haiti announced July 25 that they sent out The Marine Corps will deliver the MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor Photo by Glenn Fawcett beneficial occupancy date (BOD) let- aircraft to Japan on time, but they will remain grounded for Japan's Minister of Defense Satoshi Morimoto's delegation ters to the contractor announcing the the short term, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta told report- boards a V-22 Osprey at the Pentagon Aug. 3 for a familiar- completion of the construction of four ers Aug. 3 during a joint Pentagon press conference with ization flight to NAS Patuxent River, Md. Community Cluster projects, which Japanese Defense Minister Satoshi Morimoto. are part of U.S. Southern Command’s Panetta said the Osprey will not fly in Japan until a full Panetta also praised the defense partnership between the Humanitarian Assistance Program report into two recent incidents involving the aircraft is pre- United States and Japan. (HAP), in Haiti. sented to the Japanese government and the safety of flight “This alliance has been the bedrock to peace and stability A BOD letter typically provides operations is reconfirmed. “The Defense Department antici- in the Asia-Pacific region for more than 50 years,” he said. notice that the construction phase is pates presenting this information to the Japanese govern- During their meeting, the defense leaders also discussed complete and the facility is available ment sometime this month,” he said. plans to realign the U.S. force structure and ways to mod- for occupancy. An Osprey crash in Morocco in April killed two people; ernize and advance the U.S.-Japan alliance, including joint “The completed Community Clusters another in Florida in June injured five. operations, training and shared use of training ranges. are located in the communities of Les The Osprey is key to the defense department’s plans for “Japan’s decision to purchase the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Cayes, Torbeck, Mandarin and Ecole the Asia-Pacific region, Panetta said. “It will enable Marines is an important move that will help expand our bilateral Pont Gaudin,” said ROICC Cmdr. to fly faster and farther from Okinawa to remote islands in cooperation,” Panetta said. “It will enhance the ability of our Dewayne Roby. Japan. This is a one-of-a-kind platform.” forces to operate together and it will ensure our dominance All four sites include 3,000 square “We have tremendous confidence in this plane,” Panetta of the skies for decades to come.” foot community centers, wells, six-stall added. “We fly it in combat operations, we fly it around the After the press conference, Panetta and Morimoto took latrines and hand wash stations. The world [and] we fly it here in this country . . . this plane can part in a familiarization flight aboard an Osprey, flying from Les Cayes, Mandarin and Ecole Pont safely implement its operational mission.” the Pentagon to Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia. Gaudin sites also include 1,800 square foot medical clinics. The Les Cayes and Torbeck sites both include 4,800 square foot, eight-classroom schools, NMCRS Volunteer Spotlight the Ecole Pont Gaudin site includes a 3,900 square foot six-classroom school and the Mandarin site includes a 3,300 square-foot five-classroom school. “These facilities will increase the quality of life of the local population MeetFrom Staff the Goulets by providing the improved ability to educate the children of Haiti and care Ryan and Arica Goulet are two of our fabulous volunteers at the for each other, while giving the people NAS Jacksonville Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS). a place to congregate and continue to Since December, he has served as a Client Service Associate and build a strong sense of community,” looks forward to completing his casework training in the future. said Roby. His goal is to provide active duty service members and their fami- Palgag Building Technologies, Ltd. lies with financial planning assistance. was the contractor on these projects. He and Arica, also an NMCRS volunteer, were married last year “Construction in Haiti is not an easy (1-11-11). task,” said Roby. An active duty service member himself, Ryan graduated in 2008 “The contractor kept the projects from the University of Wyoming with a degree in mechanical engi- working to completion.” neering. These contracts, along with the Currently a student at VP-30, he spends his free time volunteering remaining Humanitarian Assistance at the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Program contracts throughout Haiti, While there, he most enjoys engaging in a variety of finance discus- were awarded by Naval Facilities sions with the staff members. Engineering Command Southeast in Staying true to his engineering background, Ryan enjoys building Jacksonville, Fla. and administered model airplanes and constructing things with his extensive Lego col- by ROICC Haiti with acquisition and lection. Ryan admits to one hidden talent, bed making, a carryover engineering support provided from the from OCS. Jacksonville office. Want to learn more about NMCRS volunteer opportunities? Please These projects are part of U.S. contact our Chairman of Volunteers Amanda O’Connell at 542-3515 Southern Command’s HAP, which or [email protected] will provide a total of nine emergency Ryan and Arica Goulet operations centers and disaster relief warehouses, eight community clusters and fourteen fire stations in locations throughout Haiti. FromNAVFAC Naval Facilities awards Engineering $7.5 million contract to small business Roby explained that the HAP is Command Southeast Public Affairs employ more that 58 percent of the pri- uments, regional planning products, designed to assist the people of Haiti in vate work force, generate more than 51 master plans, recapitalization plans, building and sustaining their capacity Naval Facilities Engineering Com- percent of the nation’s gross domestic capital improvement plans, and spe- to prepare for and respond to disasters, mand (NAVFAC) Southeast awarded product, and are the principal source of cial planning studies to include scoping while providing basic facilities to edu- a $7.5 million contract July 26 to The new jobs.” studies. cate provide medical care and help the R-A-M Professional Group, a small busi- The first task order for $202,037 All work under this contract will everyday community of the Haitian ness, out of Jacksonville, Fla., for pro- under the contract is for the mas- be performed at various Navy and people. fessional planning services throughout ter plan update at Naval Air Station Marine Corps facilities and other gov- After the newly constructed facilities NAVFAC Southeast’s area of responsi- Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, New ernment facilities within the NAVFAC are outfitted, through the efforts of U.S. bility (AOR). Orleans, La. This project is expected to Southeast AOR including, but not lim- Southern Command and partnering “Utilization of small business con- be completed by August 2013. ited to Georgia (20 percent), Louisiana with non-governmental organizations, cerns is a matter of national interest This indefinite-delivery indefinite- (20 percent), Texas (20 percent), South the facilities will be turned over to the with both social and economic ben- quantity contract is for the development Carolina (20 percent), Mississippi (10 Haitian government for usage. efits,” said Nelson Smith, NAVFAC and update of facility planning stud- percent), and Alabama (10 percent). The turnover is expected prior to the Southeast deputy for Small Business. ies, project documentation for military All work under this contract is expect- start of the new school year. “America’s 27 million small businesses construction and facility planning doc- ed to be completed by March 2015.

20 JAX AIR NEWS, NAS JACKSONVILLE, Thursday, August 9, 2012