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Serving the Hampton Roads Navy Family Vol. 18, No. 13, Norfolk, VA FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM April 1, 2010 New drugs, same Navy policy – ZERO TOLERANCE PRESS RELEASE equipment and weapons systems in the world. People U.S. Fleet Forces Public Affairs with those responsibilities cannot abuse drugs.” “Deterring drug abuse is every Sailor’s respon- NORFOLK — With the sibility, requiring proactive leadership, continuous emerging popularity of de- “This is drug education, a rigorous detection program, and ac- signer drugs, the Navy has countability for those who choose to abuse drugs,” underscored its zero toler- abuse, just continued Harvey. ance drug abuse policy by During fiscal year (FY) 2009, the Navy separated establishing new guidelines like smoking more than 1,300 Sailors for drug abuse and more in NAVADMIN 108/10, re- marijuana or than 300 Sailors have been separated since the be- leased March 25. ginning of FY 2010. The NAVADMIN signed using cocaine, by the Chief of Naval Op- and Sailors See ZERO TOLERANCE, A11 erations, reminds service members that the Navy’s know our zero drug abuse policy is un- wavering and states any tolerance policy.” member who is found to be — Fleet Master Chief unlawfully using, possessing, promoting, manufacturing Tom Howard or distributing drugs and/ or drug abuse parapherna- lia shall be disciplined, as appropriate, and processed Spice is a brand name for for administrative separation. a mixture of herbs that is sold primarily as an incense, “Drug abuse puts lives and missions at risk and un- but often marketed as an Photo by MC1 Crystal Brooks dercuts unit readiness and morale,” said Adm. John herbal smoking blend. The To deter drug abuse, commands must eliminate any Harvey, Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. manufacturer of the product perception among potential drug users that their use may go “Our Sailors are given tremendous responsibility and offi cially warns against undetected. This will require a rigorous urinalysis program operate some of the most technologically advanced human ingestion. with frequent, random, observed and unannounced urinalysis tests. Random tests are required at least four times a month.

USS Independence begins maiden voyage PRESS RELEASE by the city of Mobile in help- From Surface Forces Public Affairs ing us reach this milestone,” said Cmdr. Curt Renshaw, MOBILE, Ala. — The Na- Independence Blue Crew vy’s newest littoral combat ship, commanding officer. “This USS Independence (LCS 2), transit will allow us to gain sailed away from Mobile, Ala. valuable operational expe- Photo by MC2 Nicholas Kontodiakos The Navy’s newest littoral combat ship USS for the fi rst time March 26. rience and is another large Independence (LCS 2) arrives at Mole Pier at Naval Air The milestone marks the step toward bringing our Station Key West. Independence is on the way to Norfolk, commencement of initial unique and versatile capabil- for commencement of initial testing and evaluation of the testing and evaluation of the ities to the fleet.” aluminum vessel before sailing to its homeport in San aluminum vessel. Independence’s maid- Diego. Independence is a fast, agile, mission-focused “We are excited to set sail, en voyage will include stops ship specifi cally designed to defeat “anti-access” threats and remain grateful for the in shallow, coastal water regions, including surface craft, incredible support offered See INDEPENDENCE, A11 diesel submarines and mines.

VA Secretary Shinseki cheers on disabled vets at Winter Sports Clinic STORY AND PHOTO BY DONNA MILES American Forces Press Service justing their adaptive skis and offering tips, and in some cases, reassurance. SNOWMASS VILLAGE, Colo. — “When I walk around the first-timers, Walking among skiers preparing to hit I can tell they are as anxious as all get- the slopes here during the first day of out,” Shinseki told American Forces the National Disabled American Vet- Press Service. “They don’t say they are, erans Winter Sports Clinic, Veterans but it is in their voices. Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki no- “And I have stood in a lot of assembly ticed a long row of lonely wheelchairs areas where people are getting ready just beyond the staging area. to go on an operation,” he continued, “Look!” he told photographers captur- recalling his 38-year Army career that ing the event. “There’s your picture – all culminated with service as Army chief those abandoned wheelchairs. That’s of staff. what shows what’s taking place here is “I know what an anxious voice sounds all about.” like,” the secretary said, “so I tell them, Their owners were all out enjoying a ‘Don’t think about it. Do it. At no oth- crystal-clear Colorado morning on Snow- er time in your life are you going to fall mass Mountain, the secretary noted, … and have everybody on the slope run- with any thoughts of disability aban- ning over to help pick you up. This week doned along with their wheelchairs. is about making you feel good about Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki poses with Gene Hodge, a former Army staff sergeant Anticipation filled the air as they as- yourself, so do it all.’” participating in the National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic at Snowmass Village, Colo., sembled at the base of the mountain, March 29. “Thank you for all the work you are doing for veterans,” Hodge told the secretary. scores of volunteer ski instructors ad- See VETERAN AFFAIRS, A11

INSIDE: COMMISSIONING CEREMONY A5 TRAINING SUPPORT CENTER HAMPTON ROADS B5 OFF DUTY C1 Submarine New Mexico Chaplain shares his love of Up for a challenge? Register joins Fleet God, the water with Sailors for Wilderness Challenge USS New Mexico (SSN 779) Lt. Hammen provides pastoral Registration is open for the commissioned at Naval Station care and guidance in ways in 10th annual All-Military Norfolk, March 27. which junior Sailors can relate. Wilderness Challenge. Spring to mark the start of the NSPS to GS transition Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic is: BY ELAINE WILSON Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel American Forces Press Service The Flagship® is produced by Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic staff. The editorial content of this WASHINGTON — The De- newspaper and any supplement is fense Department is on track prepared, edited and provided by the public affairs offi ce of Commander Navy to transition the majority of Region Mid- Atlantic. its more than 220,000 civilian Regional program manager for Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic is employees out of the Nation- al Security Personnel System Public Affairs Director by Sept. 30, more than a year Beth Baker ahead of deadline, the offi cial Editorial Staff heading up that transition said Managing Editor today. Micheal Mink The 2010 National Defense A training module called General Schedule 101 is Deputy Managing Editor Authorization Act called for the available online at www.cpms.osd.mil/nsps/. MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford termination of NSPS by Janu- Editorial Assistant ary 2012, bringing an end to a controversial incorporates the best practices of NSPS and MC2 Mandy Hunsucker personnel system that’s been operational GS. Graphic Designer for less than four years. “One of the best advantages under NSPS David Todd The majority of employees will transition that we saw was the clear alignment be- Off Duty Editor / Designer -- starting this spring -- back to the decades- tween employees and the organization Tim Rafalski old General Schedule system, but with an about what their contribution means to the The Flagship® is an authorized assurance in regard to pay. priorities and the direction of the organiza- publication for members of the military services and their families. Its contents do “I am committed to ensure, as directed tion,” James said. “As we develop the new not necessarily refl ect the offi cial views of in the National Defense Authorization Act, authorities and transition employees to the the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine that employees experience no loss of, or de- GS system, in most cases, we plan to rein- Corps and do not imply endorsement crease in, pay upon conversion,” said John force that directive and that effort to ensure thereof. The appearance of advertising James, Jr., director of the Pentagon’s NSPS the employees are aligned with the organi- in this newspaper, including inserts transition offi ce. “The department believes zation.” or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of in that and believes it is the right thing to Offi cials also will examine the law’s re- Defense, the Navy or Marine Corps, do.” quirements for hiring fl exibility and a Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, Inc. of the products and services This preservation of pay encompasses all personnel performance fund that rewards advertised. employees. For instance, NSPS employees employees or teams for their performance, Everything advertised in The Flagship® shall be made available for purchase, who are paid a salary that exceeds Step 10 he said. use or patronage without regard to race, -- the highest step under the GS system -- These processes will continue to be open color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political of their pay grade will retain their pay upon and transparent, James vowed. “I envision affi liation or any other nonmerit factor of the conversion, James explained. the transition and development and use of purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by An employee’s grade upon conversion the new authorities to be a collaborative an advertiser is confi rmed, the publisher will be determined by classifi cation special- effort with supervisors, management, lead- shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The ists using the same criteria in use for GS ership, union partners, labor partners, the Flagship® is published by Flagship, Inc., a employees, James said. Offi ce of Personnel Management and other subsidiary of Landmark Communications, Inc., a private fi rm in no way connected “An employee’s position will be evaluat- stakeholders. I see this as being an entirely with the Department of Defense, the ed under the General Schedule system and inclusive process.” U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps, under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy. classifi ed,” he said. “If that position classi- James emphasized the importance of Questions or comments can be fi es out as a GS-13, then that employee will communication throughout the transition directed to the public affairs offi cer or the editor. The Flagship® can be reached at become a 13 when they transition.” process and future personnel system mod- 322-2865 (editor), 322-2864 (assistant While the Defense Department has a ifi cations. “You can’t over communicate a editor). The fax number is 445-1953 or write Commander, Navy Region, Mid- goal for transition completion, James noted change,” he said. Atlantic, The Flagship®, 1510 Gilbert St., that each organization and component will To that end, the NSPS Web site, www. Norfolk, VA 23511-2737. All news releases should be sent to this address. Stories make a determination on a timeline based cpms.osd.mil/nsps/, now includes transi- may be submitted via e-mail to news@ on four factors: tion updates and a training module called fl agshipnews.com. You can visit The Flagship’s Web site at www.fl agshipnews. • No undue interruption to mission or GS 101, he said. com. hardship to employees; “Employees who have never been in the The Flagship® is published every Thursday by Flagship, Inc., whose offi ces • Established processes to classify NSPS GS system, and there are a few, can go in are at 150 W. Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk, positions into the appropriate non-NSPS and walk through that,” James said. “It re- VA 23510. Minimum weekly circulation is 45,000. system; ally is informative and tells them how the Flagship, Inc. • Existence of a legacy performance man- GS system works.” It’s also of value to em- General Manager agement system; and ployees who were in the system before, he Laura Baxter, 222-3964 • An information technology system ca- added. Creative Director pable of handling the transition. James encouraged employees to contin- Tricia Lieurance, 222-3968 As offi cials work to ensure a smooth tran- ue to ask questions. “Employees should feel

Free Classifi ed Advertising, 222-3967 sition, they also are turning an eye to the free to ask their chain of command about Distribution, 446-2881 road ahead. Along with terminating NSPS, how that process is being implemented,” Home Delivery, 222-3965 the act gives the Defense Department new he said. “GS is very prescriptive in how the © 2009 Flagship, Inc. authorities to look at developing a succes- process works. They will be informed how All rights reserved. sor performance management system that their job will be classifi ed and transitioned.” THE FLAGSHIP’S LEEWARD SHOUT What are you doing to prepare for the Spring Physical Readiness Test (PRT)?

“I will be sitting “I work out “I run and lift this PRT out. I three to four weights. I try tore ligaments times a week. I to do the run in my ankle do the elliptical in less than 10 while playing for an hour and minutes and basketball at I might run on I don’t have a PT.” the treadmill problem with for about 30 doing the sit- minutes. I feel ups and push- I’m ready for it.” ups.” Ensign LN2 (AW) AME2 (AW/SW) Timothy Downs Jeremy Smith Simon Bertholf PCD Jason Dunham Naval Legal Service Mid-Atlantic Region TPU staff

“I ride the “I do at least 30 “I’m not right stationary bike minutes of cardio now, but when for the PRT, so I and calisthenics. I start I’ll start practice on that For cardio, I run with fast pace at the gym. For on the treadmill walking and the sit-ups and at 6 mph and an free-weight push-ups, I just incline of 5, so lifting. Once I do as many as I’m running up get comfortable I can in a two- hill. For cals, I I’ll start to push minute time rotate between myself to the 11- AZ2 period.” IT2 jumping jacks, EN3 minute mark for sit-ups and the run.” Laquetta Rucker Latisha Nelson things like that.” Jonathan Lavoie HSC 9 COMSUB 4 USS Bataan (LHD 5)

Photos by MC2 Mandy Hunsucker

Brought to you by For the latest weather updates and up-to-the-minute weather alerts, go to www.wtkr.com/weather SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE (SAPR) DoN brings awareness to new SAPR program BY MC1 (SW) RACHAEL L. LESLIE Navy Public Affairs Support Element East

NEW ORLEANS — Top leaders with- in the Department of the Navy (DoN) met to bring awareness to the new Sex- ual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program at the first Sexual As- sault Response Coordinator (SARC) Summit in New Orleans, March 22-26. To align with the DoN’s newly estab- lished SAPR Office, the former Sexual Assault Victim Intervention (SAVI) pro- gram was officially renamed the SAPR program in Nov. 2009. “It’s really a prevention and response program so we’ve changed the name to more adequately describe it,” said Jill Loftus, director of the DoN’s SAPR Of- fice. “There’s really no difference in the program itself. We’re trying to empha- size that it’s prevention and response, not just victim intervention.” Photos by MC1 Jennifer A. Villalovos Rear Adm. Michael Browne, director Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick West answers questions during a leadership panel at the first Department of the Navy of personal readiness and community Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Summit. West joins the panel with Rear Adm. Daniel Holloway, Director of Manpower, Personnel, support, said there are many reasons to Training and Education; Gen. James Amos, Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps; Sgt. Major Michael Timmerman, Personnel and Family bring awareness to this program and the Readiness Sergeant Major; and Lt. General Richard Zilmer, Deputy Commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs. The week long summit began issues it’s designed to address. with presentations from senior leaders and will continue with training and open discussions. “This program is critically important Contact training, and eight-hour SAPR to the Navy and Marine Corps team, ul- Command Liaison training, a two-hour timately because it’s a mission readiness SAPR Data Collection Coordinator train- issue for our forces, but more important- ing, and SAPR Victim Advocate monthly ly a personal issue,” said Browne. “First meetings, designed to provide policy of all sexual assault is a crime, and sec- updates and continuing education for ondly it’s completely contrary to our core victim advocates. values of honor, courage and commit- Assistant “It’s a privilege and an honor to sup- ment.” Commandant of the port the Navy organization in the role Loftus agrees about the importance of Marine Corps Gen. of director of personal readiness in this this program to the future of the Navy James Amos delivers important mission area of sexual assault and Marine Corps and its personnel. remarks during the and suicide prevention,” said Browne. “I’m very passionate about the care of first Department “There’s such good work going on today of the Navy Sexual victims and I think that the more we’re by the many professionals across the Assault Response aware that this happens every day, it Coordinator Summit. Navy in so many different areas that are happens two, three, four times a day re- The week long paying attention to the needs of sexual ported, and we know it’s the most under summit began with assault victims, and the training that has reported crime not only in the Navy, but presentations from to be in place to prevent this crime.” also in the country,” she said. “I think senior leaders and During the next few days of the sum- anything we can do to help prevent will continue with mit, more than 200 personnel from somebody from becoming a victim, and training and open around the world, including SARCs somebody from becoming a perpetrator, discussions. and supporting personnel from the is only going to make the Navy stron- Loftus said she hopes in the future potential victims, and training potential Navy and Marine Corps medical, legal ger.” that the focus of the program will be- perpetrators to stop this crime then my and chaplain communities will partic- The goals of the SAPR program are come more on prevention and less on hope is we’ll have less victims.” ipate in specialized SAPR training and to promote sensitive, coordinated, and response. There are many training opportuni- group discussions, and attend informa- effective management of sexual as- “Hopefully as we move down through ties available within the SAPR program. tional lectures. For more information on sault cases, to reduce the incidence of a change in culture, the victims will They include; Sexual Assault Preven- the SAPR program and how to enroll in sexual assault through awareness and become fewer in numbers and our pre- tion and Awareness General Military a training program, contact your local prevention education, and to standard- vention efforts will increase,” said Loftus. Training, a 30-hour SAPR Victim Advo- SAPR representative. ize reporting of sexual assaults. “If the SARCs can help us with training cate training, a four-hour SAPR Point of For more news, visit www.navy.mil. AROUND THE SERVICES NMCB 74 Seabees build leadership and character through martial arts BY MC2 MICHAEL LINDSEY Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 74 Public Affairs HELMAND PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Naval Mo- bile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 74 awarded Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) tan belts to its sec- ond class of graduates while deployed to Afghanistan March 21. The accomplishment was possible due to battalion Seabees who qualified as MCMAP instructors. MCMAP is a combat sys- tem developed by the Marine Corps that teaches hand- to-hand and close-quarters combat techniques. The pro- gram focuses on mental and character development, the responsible use of force, lead- Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 74 participate in the Marine ership and teamwork. Corps Martial Arts Program. Engineering Aide 2nd Engineering Aide 2nd Class Erik Kennerson (left), assigned to Class Erik Kennerson, one mentality, physical abilities the work day. They begin by Kennerson. “He was a men- Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 74, Engineering of two MCMAP instruc- and character.” stretching and doing various tor to me in the past, and has Dept. and the battalion’s Marine Corps Martial Arts Program tors assigned to NMCB 74, Kennerson is currently exercises. They train tech- helped in the implementation (MCMAP) instructor, demonstrates a counter to a rear completed three months of running the MCMAP pro- niques for two hours a day, and overall program for our headlock following through with a hammer-fist strike on Construction Mechanic Constructionman Apprentice Gregory accelerated training to earn gram for NMCB 74 at the four days a week for a total of Seabees.” Allam, assigned to NMCB 74’s Alfa Company. his green belt with instruc- main body site on Camp 27.5 hours of instruction. tor tab. Krutke. He hopes to award at “We start with some PT “I first got involved in the least 18 tan belts before rotat- (physical training) and then MCMAP program in last ing to his next command this get into some various tech- year’s homeport because I summer. niques that are associated was interested in anything According to Marine Corp with the tan belt syllabus, in- Steelworker 3rd Class Casto Tanner (left), assigned to Naval to do with combat and weap- Order 1500.54, which defines cluding the history and the Mobile Construction Battalion ons,” said Kennerson. “The the MCMAP, the tan belt responsibilities that come (NMCB) 74, Alfa Company, command was looking for is the first level of achieve- with being a practitioner of executes a counter to a rear some motivated Seabees to ment that signifies the basic the martial arts,” Kennerson choke against Construction go to MCMAP instructor understanding of the men- explained. “We don’t want to Electrician Constructionman training so I threw my name tal, physical, and character just take people in undisci- Apprentice Patricia Escobar, in the hat.” disciplines and a basic un- plined and have them leave assigned to NMCB 74’s Charlie Originally, five Seabees derstanding of fighting undisciplined. These tech- Company, during a Marine Corps were sent to instructor train- techniques. niques, lethal and non-lethal, Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) exercise. Casto and Escobar ing during homeport in 2009. “The tan belt is the root of are reserved for the battle- have elected to participate in Only two met graduation re- the program which all the field.” the MCMAP to further develop quirements due to physical other belts stem from,” ex- NMCB 74’s Military Ad- their character, and mental and injuries. plained Kennerson. “It covers visor Gunnery Sgt. Jason physical abilities. “It wasn’t easy,” Kennerson punches, upper body strikes, Neale, helps Kennerson with explained. “We were at such bayonet techniques, lower the training as an assistant. a fast pace that the only thing body strikes, throws, chokes, Although he isn’t an instruc- on anyone’s mind was mak- weapons of opportunity, and tor, he has much experience ing it through to the next day! knife and bayonet techniques, and advice to offer. Neale cur- For us it is an excellent small all of which will all reappear at rently has a brown MCMAP leadership training program. higher belt levels.” belt at the student level. It’s great for team building NMCB 74’s MCMAP “Gunny has been an invalu- and developing a warrior’s classes muster at the end of able resource for me,” said

All photos by MC2 Michael Lindsey Equipment Operator 2nd Class Christopher McAvoy fireman-carries Construction Mechanic Construction Recruit Morgan Pierce while participating in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. McAvoy and Pierce are assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 74. Photo by Lt. Patrick Evans With USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) in the background, Sailors man the Virginia-class attack submarine USS New Mexico (SSN 779) after “bringing her to life” during a commissioning ceremony. New Mexico joins five other submarines of her class. Submarine New Mexico joins Fleet BY MC3 KLEYNIA MCKNIGHT officer, will lead the crew of approximately Navy Public Affairs Support Element - East 134 officers and enlisted personnel. “I am proud and humbled to be part of NORFOLK — With the traditional first the crew and their commanding officer. I order “man our ship and bring her to life,” am truly grateful for the dedication that Sailors assigned to USS New Mexico (SSN the crew has given to this ship,” said Pro- 779) boarded the Virginia-class attack sub- kopius. marine during a commissioning ceremony Northrop Grumman Corporation deliv- at Naval Station Norfolk March 27. ered the sixth submarine of the Virginia New Mexico is named in recognition of class to the U.S. Navy in December, four the people of the “Land of Enchantment.” months ahead of schedule. New Mexico’s The battleship New Mexico (BB-40) 70-month construction period represents (1918-1946), the only other ship named af- the shortest overall construction time to ter the 47th state, earned six battle stars date of any Virginia-class submarine. for World War II service, which included New Mexico is built to excel in anti-sub- providing shore bombardment support marine warfare; anti-ship warfare; strike for landings in the Gilbert and Marshall warfare; special operations; intelligence, Islands, Guam, Tinian, Saipan, the Philip- surveillance, and reconnaissance; irregu- pines, and Okinawa. lar warfare; battle group support; and mine Photo by MCSN Scott Pittman Adm. Kirkland Donald, director, Na- warfare missions. By doing so, New Mexi- During a commissioning ceremony, Sailors man the boat and officially bring the newest val Nuclear Propulsion, who delivered the co will directly enable five of the six Navy Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine USS New Mexico to life aboard Naval Station Norfolk. ceremony’s principal address, recognized Maritime Strategy Core Capabilities - sea New Mexico is the sixth Virginia-class submarine to be commissioned and will be homeported the Northrop Grumman Corporation, dis- control, power projection, forward pres- in New London Submarine Base Subase, Groton, Conn. tinguished guests, former battleship New ence, maritime security, and deterrence. Mexico veterans, ship’s crew, family and The 7,800-ton New Mexico was built friends stating, “’Defendemos Nuestra Tier- under a unique teaming arrangement be- ra’ - we defend our land - is the ship’s motto, tween Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding which will start the harmonious tone to the and General Dynamics Electric Boat. She operation of this ship. is 377-feet long, has a 34-foot beam, and will “It’s been a marvel to see the team come be able to dive to depths of greater than 800 together and deliver this operation so well. feet and operate at speeds in excess of 25 Adm. Kirkland H. Donald, At the end of the day, this mission-ready knots submerged. New Mexico is designed director, Naval Nuclear ship has been delivered in the shortest time with a reactor plant that will not require re- Propulsion, speaks to crew of all other Virginia-class submarines.” fueling during the planned life of the ship members and guests at the commissioning ceremony New Mexico Sponsor, Cindy Giambas- – reducing life-cycle costs while increasing for the Virginia-class tiani, wife of former Vice Chairman of the underway time. nuclear attack submarine Joint Chiefs of Staff retired Adm. Edmund The keel for New Mexico was authen- USS New Mexico (SSN-779) Giambastiani, congratulated Cmdr. Mark ticated April 12, 2008, and the ship was at Naval Station Norfolk Prokopius, officers and crew members. christened on Dec. 13, 2008. New Mexico is March 27. “Your courage and patriotism will reflect on the most modern and sophisticated attack Photo by MCSN Scott Pittman the life of the ship.” submarine in the world, providing under- Prokopius, New Mexico’s commanding sea supremacy well into the 21st century. Stellar Navy’s voluntary education programs change quarter for PRESS RELEASE From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs Navy’s fuel WASHINGTON — The chief of Naval Per- sonnel released NAVADMIN 105/10 March 23 which reflects several changes to Navy ed- savings ucation priorities, including guidance for the management of off-duty voluntary education PRESS RELEASE programs. From Naval Sea Systems Among the primary changes outlined are the Command Public Affairs requirement for individual education plans pri- or to enrollment in courses funded by Tuition WASHINGTON — Na- Assistance (TA) or the Navy College Program val Sea Systems Command’s for Afloat College Education (NCPACE), (NAVSEA) Incentivized the elimination of funding for courses ex- Energy Conservation (i-EN- pressed in clock hours and the restriction CON) initiative announced of TA and NCPACE usage for new acces- March 18 that Navy ships re- sion Sailors during their first permanent duty alized 354,000 barrels of fuel station. avoidance during the first “Navy leadership is committed to providing quarter fiscal year 2010. opportunities and financial assistance to Sail- The savings represent an ors as they pursue their educational goals,” increase of 4.9 percent from said Vice Adm. Mark Ferguson, chief of naval the previous quarter. personnel. “Our highest priority is to reward “These efforts increase Sailors who are responsible, plan ahead and fleet readiness by enabling who are good financial stewards of Navy’s ed- Sailors at sea to train or de- ucation funds.” ploy longer while spending Individual education plans will be required the same amount of mon- by all Sailors who plan to use TA. These plans ey on fuel,” said Hasan

serve as an essential guide for Sailors as they Photo by MC3 Matthew Bookwalter Pehlivan, i-ENCON program pursue their education goals, listing courses, Logistics Specialist Seaman William Selmon takes his final exam for a Programs Afloat College manager. American Council on Education (ACE) cred- Education (PACE) course aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66). PACE provides These savings also in- its and Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Sailors the opportunity to take college classes for credit toward a degree while forward deployed. crease fleet readiness by Education Support (DANTES) academic test- providing enough fuel to sup- ing applicable to completing select degree tance learning degrees offered by any one of According to Redd-Clary, there are many port six Arleigh Burke-class programs. 34 Navy College Program Distance Learning factors that must be considered in order for destroyers (at an average of Education plans will also help Sailors iden- Partnership (NCPDLP) schools. Sailors to successfully complete their degree 2,500 underway hours) per tify which courses are best achieved within Additionally, the NAVADMIN announces TA requirements. That is why it’s so important year. the allotted 16 semester hour cap, and must and NCPACE funding will only be authorized for Sailors to seek the guidance of Navy Col- The i-ENCON program is be on file with the Navy College Office for academic courses expressed in semester lege counselors at their local NCO. a ‘Meet-the-Fleet’ initiative (NCO) prior to enrollment in college courses or quarter hours and lead to technical, associ- “I can not emphasize enough the value spearheaded by NAVSEA funded with TA or through NCPACE. Stu- ates, bachelors, masters or doctorate degree. of discussing your goals with an education to reduce ships’ energy con- dents will no longer be able to complete five These courses are readily available at accred- counselor,” said Redd-Clary. “Once you’ve sumption. Program sponsors courses prior to completion of the education ited colleges and universities world-wide and established this plan you can track your prog- conduct routine meetings plan. priced within the current DoD cap of $250 per ress under the MyEducation tab on the Navy with ship operators to review “It’s important to remember that as Sail- semester hour or $166.67 per quarter hour. College Web site.” specific fuel-saving pro- ors train, they can also earn credits toward Funding of courses expressed in clock hours The Center for Personal and Professional cedures and recommend college degrees,” said Navy’s Voluntary Ed- is no longer authorized. Development (CPPD) manages all 50 of the quarterly awards for ships ucation Director, Dr. Mary Redd-Clary. “Our To provide Sailors with adequate time to be- Navy College Offices located worldwide. with the most fuel-efficient Navy College counselors review these cred- come familiar with the command, their job To read the NAVADMIN, visit www.npc. operations. its against Sailors’ education plans and degree requirements and progress towards warfare navy.mil/NR/rdonlyres/E8692AF5-13E3- One of the ways NAV- programs. This helps minimize the time a qualifications, officer and enlisted new ac- 4C7C-9414-3677C064A49E/0/NAV10105. SEA’s i-ENCON measures Sailor spends attending courses, while sen- cessions are now required to have one year txt. fuel usage and cost avoid- sibly managing Navy education funds,” said onboard their first permanent duty station be- For more information about CPPD, visit ance is through underburn, Redd-Clary. fore TA or NCPACE funds will be authorized. https://www.netc.navy.mil/centers/cppd/. the reported fuel rate for the DANTES tests for college credit and ACE Sailors currently enrolled in TA or NCPACE For more information about the Navy College quarter that is below the ship recommended credits ensure Sailors are able and have served less than a year at their first Office, visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/ class’ average burn rate. For to complete degree requirements in a time- PDS are exempt from this requirement as ncp/findnco.cfm. the first quarter of fiscal year ly manner. Currently, Sailors both ashore long as they remain eligible for program ben- For more news from Chief of Naval Person- 2010, 106 ships reported an and afloat, can enroll in rating related dis- efits. nel, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnp/. underburn. “The cumulative under- burn was 16.35 percent of fuel consumption for first quarter fiscal year 2010, Navy establishes Expeditionary Training Group which exceeded the i-EN- CON goal of eight percent BY MC2 (SCW) by a wide margin,” said Pe- PAUL D. WILLIAMS board Joint Expedition- grated phase of the Fleet officer of ETG. “ETG puts “Training is paramount,” hlivan. “This underburn Navy Expeditionary Combat ary Base Little Creek-Ft. Readiness Training Plan. the finishing touches on said Chief Operations Spe- translates into a net fuel cost Command Public Affairs Story. From there, ETG recom- the units that deploy with- cialist (SW/AW) John avoidance, including ships ETG’s mission is to mends Maritime Security in our community.” Boglin, senior enlisted ad- that overburn, of $41 million, VIRGINIA BEACH provide training to Navy Surge or Maritime Security For the commands of visor of ETG. “My gut based on fuel costing $116.34 — Expeditionary Train- Expeditionary Combat Operations-Ready certifica- NECC this means ETG fills feeling is the Navy is really barrel.” ing Group (ETG) held Command’s (NECC) Ech- tions. a training need that no oth- pushing forth with brown The performance may be an establishment cer- elon IV and V commands “We concentrate on the er command can provide water operations. ETG is attributable to fuel-conserv- emony March 19 on as they complete the inte- headquarters elements of to these deploying expedi- making sure Sailors get the ing ships receiving $2 million deploying NECC units and tionary forces. training they need prior to in cash awards distributed in provide them the integrat- “We started from the deploying.” the fourth quarter of each ed and advanced training ground up to fill a known NECC serves as the fiscal year by Commander, they will need on deploy- gap in training,” said Na- single functional com- Naval Surface Forces, ac- ment,” said Capt. Michael politano. mand for the Navy’s cording to Pehlivan. Napolitano, commanding According to Napolita- expeditionary forces and i-ENCON rewards leading no, NECC forces are on as central management fuel conservers among un- the cutting edge of fighting for the readiness, resourc- derway surface ships with today’s war against non-tra- es, manning, training and special recognitions and cash ditional threats. He said equipping of those forces. incentives. Award money is having an asset like ETG Expeditionary forces are routed to each command- within the expeditionary organized to accomplish ing officer’s discretionary community will ensure that specific objectives in other funds that are often used to NECC forces are not only countries. buy items like damage con- well-equipped, but also For more news from Navy trol gear or to augment the that the Sailor is trained Expeditionary Combat ship’s welfare and recreation in the latest warfighter Command, visit www.navy. programs. skills. mil/local/necc/. “These incentives are very important to i-ENCON’s suc- cess,” Pehlivan added. “It’s a voluntary program that requires real commitment from ships’ commanding of- ficers, chief engineers and main propulsion assistants. I receive calls and E-mails from ships every day want- ing to know how they can participate and improve their fuel performance.” Additionally, to increase fuel conservation awareness, the i-ENCON curriculum has been extended to prospec- tive commanding officers at the Navy’s Surface Warfare Officers School in Newport, R.I. “The i-ENCON curricu- lum represents an extension of the professional education Surface Warfare Officers School instructors offer to prospective commanding of- ficers in order for them to succeed at their new com- mands,” said Capt. Neil R. Parrott, the school’s com- manding officer. NAVY MEDICINE Navy healthcare provider saves lives in Paktika, Afghanistan

BY U.S. AIR FORCE 2ND LT. MARK LAZANE Paktika Provincial Reconstruction Team Public Affairs

SHARANA, Afghan- istan — The Paktika Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Afghanistan continues to assist in the stabilization and security of Paktika, a large province lo- cated on the eastern Afghan border near the Pakistan tribal areas. “The PRT mission is dif- ficult at times and there are definitely obstacles to over- come,” said U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. Vincent “Doc” Lopez, a physician assistant from Phoenix and Paktika PRT medical officer. “But with help from the dedicated Af- ghan people, little by little, we can provide them with stability and improve their quality of life.” However, rather than going out and actively com- bating insurgent activity, the PRT focuses on oth- er causes of instability: Photos by Air Force Master Sgt. Demetrius Leste healthcare, infrastructure U.S. Navy Lt. J.g. Vince Lopez, Provincial Reconstruction Team medical officer, looks at a medical chart for a sick child with Dr. Ahmad Baseer, public health development, governance advisor for Paktika province. Lopez was given a tour of the Sharana hospital to view completed projects and receive an update regarding future hospital plans and agriculture initiatives. as well as schedule staff training for new equipment. Paktika PRT is a joint team whose mission is to help legitimize the government of Afghanistan through The PRT is a collection development, governance and agricultural initiatives. Lopez is deployed from Naval Health Clinic, Patuxent River, Md. of military and interagency partners who help pro- Lopez relies on his med- young provincial govern- accepted an honorable dis- Dr. Ahmad Baseer, public ers in the province, provide vide the government of ical training and a team of ment are mentored and charge from the military to health adviser for Paktika increased medical facilities the Islamic Republic of Af- Navy hospital corpsmen to guided to eventually be- pursue his dream of becom- province and a surgeon by and increase the amount ghanistan with the tools ensure the Sailors, Soldiers come expert public health ing a physician’s assistant. trade. medical providers are paid, necessary to provide for and Airmen on the PRT directors. For Lopez, this He attended Stanford Uni- “The problem is we lack a we can significantly help the long-term needs of the team are healthy and mis- tasking is nothing new. versity, earning a physician lot of the specialty services the healthcare system of provincial population. sion-ready. Lopez spent several years assistant’s degree and a that hospitals in Kabul and this province,” he added. Lopez’s first role is to ad- Lopez’s second role with as an active-duty enlisted degree in business ad- other places have. With the “Measuring success can minister medical care to the PRT is to assist the Sailor. He attended Hospi- ministration. Following limited facilities and equip- be difficult to do here,” said almost 100 military and ci- Afghan government in im- tal Corpsman “A” school at graduation, he moved back ment, as well as the lower Lopez. “I measure my suc- vilian members of PRT proving the quality and Great Lakes, Ill. and Field to his hometown of Phoe- wages, it’s difficult to re- cess directly from comments Paktika and ensure they quantity of healthcare for Medical Service school at nix and started working cruit doctors, especially from my troops, as well as are mission capable every the citizens of Paktika prov- Marine Corps Base Camp as a physician’s assistant specialists, to come prac- comments from medical pro- day. ince. Under his watch, the Lejeune, N.C. in an orthopedic surgery tice here.” viders around the province. To perform those duties, medical directors in the Five years later, Lopez clinic. It’s the sort of situation If they feel more capable of Lopez worked as a civilian that can frustrate even the performing their job, then physician’s assistant for five most optimistic volunteer, I know I am doing mine years, but felt his training but not Lopez. correctly.” and expertise in providing “The medical situation For more news from medical care could be put in this province is actually Commander, U.S. Naval to even greater use. Lopez coming along quite nicely,” Forces Central Command/ then sought to realize yet Lopez said. Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, another dream and some “If we can increase the visit www.navy.mil/local/ 10 years after leaving the amount of healthcare work- cusnc/. military as an enlisted Sail- or, Lopez began his second career as a naval officer. “I wanted to be a Navy of- ficer,” said Lopez. “That’s why I signed up, I knew there were people I’d be able to help and I wanted to help them. I knew I’d de- ploy and I wanted to come to Afghanistan.” Less than two years af- ter returning to the Navy, Lopez was given his cur- rent assignment in Paktika province. With medical fa- cilities and equipment often in short supply in the prov- ince, basic medical care for citizens can be problemat- ic. “We have good healthcare for the facilities and equip- ment we have [here],” said

U.S. Navy Lt. J.g. Vince Lopez, Provincial Reconstruction Team medical officer, speaks with Dr. Ahmad Baseer, public health advisor for Paktika province, regarding the quantity and quality of medical supplies in Sharana Hospital. Role player yells for help after being shot in the arm by terrorist during a simulated terrorist attack at Naval Medical Center Photos by MC2 Mandy Hunsucker Portsmouth (NMCP) during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel A Marine with a sucking chest wound is transported to an ambulance after a simulated terrorist attack on Naval Medical Center Shield. Role players included NMCP personnel and Marines Portsmouth, March 25, during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. staying at the hospital’s Wounded Warrior Patriots’ Inn. Exercise Solid Curtain/ Citadel Shield tests NMCP security responses

BY MC2 RIZA CAPARROS to enhance the training and readiness Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Public Affairs of Navy security personnel, increasing their ability to respond to threats to in- Naval Medical Center Portsmouth stallations and units. Scenarios ranged — The corridors of Building 1 at Naval from recognizing and countering base Medical Center Portsmouth echoed with surveillance operations to higher-tempo screams from the “wounded” March 25 and active simulated emergencies, such when the medical center participated as small boat attacks on waterfront bas- in the primary event of Exercise Solid es and cyber attacks on installations. Curtain/Citadel Shield 2010. NMCP’s NMCP’s exercise began with in- anti-terrorism exercise was one of more creasing levels of Force Protection than 250 individual training events that conditions, with a simulated attempt by took place across the country during the unauthorized personnel to gain access annual training exercise from March 22 to the base. During the drill, two medi- - 26. cal center personnel portrayed gunmen Each drill tested different regional who had infiltrated the base, while other Antiterrorism/Force Protection op- staff members portrayed people injured Paramedics tend to a Marine with a sucking chest wound and other victims of a simulated erations, forming the largest AT/FP terrorist attack at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel exercise in the country. The goal is See EXERCISE, A10 shield.

Naval Medical Center Portsmouth security team members secure an entrance to the hospital after a simulated terrorist attack, March 25, during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield.

A simulated gunshot wound to the hand during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield.

A Paramedic bandages a gunshot wound after a simulated Naval Medical Center Portsmouth security team secure an entrance to the hospital after a simulated terrorist attack during terrorist attack on Naval Medical Center Portsmouth during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. Navy Special Forces support Cold Response 2010

BY MC2 ASHLEY MYERS mand Europe. nounced ‘lurps’), SEAL SEAL Team 18 Public Affairs Cold weather training Team 18, a Reserve SEAL exercises have been held Team from Little Creek, ARCTIC CIRCLE, in Norway for years. The completed both recon- Norway — Active duty first Cold Response exer- naissance and direct and Reserve military forc- cise was held in 2005 and action missions. es from around the world has been held every year SEAL Team 18 expedi- convened in Northern since. tionary support element Norway to participate in Due to budget limita- completed expeditionary Cold Response 2010 Feb. tions in 2008 the exercise warfare (EXW) training 17 to March 4. was much smaller and and several people were With more than 8,500 named Frozen Tundra awarded their EXW pin. military personnel, ap- 2008. Cold Response re- By participating in mul- proximately 1,000 special sumed in 2009 and will tinational exercises, U.S. operations members, and only be held on even num- forces are able to develop 14 nations represented, it bered years in the future and improve valuable re- is one of the largest mili- with Frozen Tundra fill- lationships with their key tary exercises in Norway. ing in the odd numbered allies. These relationships The U.S. Navy forces years. are critical to the ability to present were Naval Spe- Collaborating with conduct combined opera- cial Warfare Unit Two, the German Kommando tions globally in response

SEAL Team 18, and Spe- Spezialkrafte (known as to crisis situations. Photo by MC2 Matt Daniels cial Boat Team 20, along the ‘KSK’) and the Long For more news from Na- U.S. Navy SEALs and German forces freefall parachute onto a frozen a lake in Northern Norway with key personnel from Range Reconnaissance val Special Warfare, visit during Exercise Cold Response 2010. Cold Response is a Norwegian-sponsored multinational Special Operations Com- Patrol (LRRPs, pro- www.navy.mil/local/nsw/. invitational exercise, with more than 9,000 military personnel from 14 countries focused on cold weather maritime and amphibious operations. USS New York completes CSSQT

PRESS RELEASE systems, and decoy systems. From Team Ships Public Affairs New York is the fifth ship WASHINGTON — USS of the class developed and New York (LPD 21) suc- acquired by PEO Ships. The cessfully completed Combat principal mission of LPD 17 Systems Ship Qualifications class amphibious transport Trials, March 22 after spend- dock ships is to transport ing 15 days at sea conducting and deploy the necessary tests of the ship’s combat and sup- weapons sys- port elements tems. of Marine Ex- The ship peditionary departed Units and Norfolk, Brigades. March 3, The ships en route to carry ap- Mayport, proximately Fla. While 720 troops at sea, the and have the ship’s crew capability of engaged in transporting various training and debarking exercises to ensure air cushion or con- the ship’s weapon systems ventional landing craft and had been properly installed, expeditionary fighting function correctly and can be vehicles, augmented by he- operated safely. licopters or vertical take-off “The successful completion and landing aircraft. of these trials validates the PEO Ships is responsi- design and integration of the ble for the development and weapon systems aboard LPD acquisition of U.S. Navy sur- 21,” said Jay Stefany, LPD 17 face ships, and is currently program manager within the managing the design and Navy’s Program Executive construction of a wide range Office (PEO) Ships. “The ex- of ship classes and small ercises went as planned, and, boats and craft. These plat- like the previous ships of the forms range from major class, USS New York and her warships such as frontline crew proved they are a valu- surface combatants and am- able fleet asset.” phibious assault ships to New York’s MK 46 Mod 2 air-cushioned landing craft, 30mm gun and MK 31 RAM oceanographic research Guided Missile Weapon Sys- ships and special warfare tem were both successfully craft. PEO Ships has deliv- demonstrated during the ered 38 major warships and live-fire phase of the trials. hundreds of small boats Also tested were the ship’s and craft from more than 30 communication and coor- shipyards and boat builders dination capabilities, radar across the United States. EXERCISE: NMCP’s anti-terrorism exercise tested security responses

Continued from page A8 mouth, which is also NMCP Police Operations responsible for respond- Officer Maj. Thomas Mc- or killed in the “attack”. ing to medical center Guiness. “Every member Coordinated by NMCP emergencies, was among involved did an exception- security assets, the drill the first to arrive on the al job and the evolution tested the responses of scene. was handled cleanly and as base security, first re- “The event was a good a team effort.” sponders and fire and training exercise not only During the exercise, rescue teams. for the Navy, but the lo- assessors collected infor- Shannon Marquez, cal first response teams mation and relayed that NMCP’s emergency man- as well,” said Brian Shav- data to decision makers to agement officer, said the er, the crew’s lead medic. improve Antiterrorism/ exercise was meant to test “Even though it was a Force Protection practic- the hospital’s ability to training exercise, we per- es and procedures in the flex homeland defense ca- formed as though it was future. pabilities. the real deal, evaluating “Our mission here today “Today’s event shows victims using the triage was to increase awareness Mid-Atlantic Regional Operations Center during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. that we can continue to system and transporting that terrorism is a real maintain the security and from there.” world threat and make us safety of our staff and pa- Shaver said the securi- better prepared for those tients while helping our ty forces who met them types of events,” contin- folks to understand that at the scene worked well ued Marquez. “If we have this can happen in a hospi- with his team, allowing flu- a safe exercise, and peo- tal, just like at any military id action from both sides. ple learn new techniques, base,” Marquez said. “This was a very high-en- new information and a bet- The firefighting/para- ergy and manpower-intense ter way to handle an event medic crew from Norfolk drill situation for the po- of this type, then I think it Naval Shipyard in Ports- lice and fire teams,” said will have been a success.”

Photos by MC2 Mandy Hunsucker An explosive ordnance smelling canine unit checks out a vehicle at a gate on Naval Station Naval Station Norfolk base security stands by with his explosive ordnance sniffing dog at his Norfolk during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. side during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. ZERO TOLERANCE: Navy reemphasizes guidelines in new NAVADMIN 108/10 underscoring its zero tolerance policy Continued from page A1 have seen cases of Sail- “Drug abuse ors using substances Nationally, designer such as designer drugs, drugs, which are created puts lives and Spice, chemicals used in the likeness of known missions at risk as inhalants, substances narcotics such as heroin found in nature, and pre- and cocaine but have not and undercuts scription drugs to get acquired the same noto- high,” said Fleet Mas- riety, are gaining more unit readiness ter Chief Tom Howard. attention. The Navy and morale.” “This is drug abuse, just message informs Sailors like smoking marijua- of the dangers associat- — Adm. John Harvey, na or using cocaine, and ed with such substances Commander, U.S. Fleet Sailors know our zero with a strong reminder Forces Command tolerance policy. The that the service’s drug vast majority of our Sail- abuse policy not only ap- ors continue to do the Photo by Donna Miles plies to illicit drugs but to citement or stupefaction right thing. However, a Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki calls an abandoned row of wheelchairs at the National Disabled Americans Winter Sports Clinic a testament to the clinic’s success. any substance unlawful- of the central nervous very small percentage for- ly used with the intention system. get why they joined the VETERAN AFFAIRS: National Disabled to induce intoxication, ex- “In recent years we service.” American Veterans Winter Sports INDEPENDENCE: Navy’s newest littoral Clinic held in Colorado combat ship sailed for the first time Continued from page A1 level – from the Veterans and homelessness. Affairs secretary himself, “This is so important,” Continued from page A1 Watching it unfold to the VA Department the secretary said of the slopeside this morning, staff to the hundreds of clinic, now in its 24th in Key West and Maypo- Shinseki posed for pho- volunteers who return to year. “If we don’t do this, rt, Fla., before pulling into tos with participants and the clinic again and again I can see that 400 lives are Naval Station Norfolk, for thanked volunteers for every year. not going to be quite the additional testing and spe- their support. “It doesn’t matter if same.” cialized crew training. He helped William Fry, you were officer or en- Sandy Trombetta, the “This is an exciting time among the first wave of listed, where you’re from clinic’s founder and direc- for all of us,” said Fire skiers to hit the slopes on or what service you were tor, called it a positive way Controlman 1st Class Jef- a monoski, to fasten his in,” he said. “Everybody to bring veterans – partic- fry Gibson. “To be a part ski bib bearing the num- is out here together, hav- ularly about 150 veterans of bringing the Navy’s ber 186. A former Air ing fun.” of Iraq and Afghanistan, newest, most advanced Force technical sergeant That fun is rehabilitative, many just learning to live ship to the Fleet is some- who suffers from multi- Shinseki said, and a vital with their disabilities – thing we all take a great ple sclerosis and memory part of the care VA pro- into the broader network deal of pride in.” Photo by Lt. Zachary Harrell loss, Fry returned this vides disabled veterans. of VA services available to The littoral combat ship Lt. Cmdr. Adam Cheatham observes operations from the bridge year for his third winter As the clinic encourag- support them. (LCS) is a fast, agile, mis- of the littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS 2) as she sports clinic. es participants to focus “The sooner we can get sion-focused ship that transits the Gulf of Mexico. Independence is underway on her What keeps bringing on what they can do rath- these men and women en- demonstrates the latest in maiden voyage. him back, he said, is the er than what they can’t, gaged in quality-of-life, naval technology. The ship is specifically Class LCS, was commissioned Jan. 16 in sheer fun of whizzing Shinseki said, it helps set self-actualizing activities, designed to defeat “anti-access” threats in Mobile, Ala. It spans 419 feet, has a dis- down the slopes, wind in them on a path to live life the better,” he said. “It shallow, coastal water regions, including placement of 2,800 metric tons and can his face. “When you’re to its fullest. He called sets the tone for the fu- surface craft, diesel submarines and mines. operate in water less than 20 feet deep. out here, speed is every- that a critical step in VA’s ture so they realize that LCS features an interchangeable modular Propelled by four water jets, along with thing,” he said. aggressive effort to pre- they can raise a family, design that allows the ship to be reconfig- two diesel and two gas turbine engines, But Fry said he’s also vent a downward spiral volunteer, get a job. They ured to meet mission requirements. Independence is capable of speeds in struck by the support par- that leads too many veter- can do anything they want Independence, the Navy’s second excess of 45 knots and boasts a range of ticipants receive at every ans to depression, suicide to do.” LCS ship and the first Independence over 3,500 nautical miles. SECTION B FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM April 1, 2010 Sexual assault has more than one victim Everyone at the workplace from co-worker to senior leadership can be effected by a person being assaulted

BY MC2 MANDY HUSUCKER embarrassment, confusion, The Flagship Staff etc. As a result, many sexual assaults go unreported, and April is Sexual Assault worse, many victims suffer Awareness month and in silence. This program al- the Fleet and Family Sup- lows the victim to receive port Centers (FFSC) of much needed services to Hampton Roads would like deal with the trauma of the to highlight their Sexual event.” Assault Prevention and Re- Rogers said Navy instal- sponse (SAPR) program, lations and commands have formerly known as the SAVI an obligation to ensure that program. all members of the Navy According to Tanya Rog- community are aware of the ers, FFSC , the name change potential for sexual assault, better aligns the name of the are provided physical safety program with its mission, on the installation, and are which is prevention and re- provided with both Navy sponse. and community support in “The 2009 Navy Sexual dealing with sexual assault. Assault Study refl ects one “The Navy SAPR Program in fi ve female and one in 12 is designed to promote a male Sailors have been vic- Navy culture exhibiting ap- tims of sexual assault during propriate sexual assault their time in service,” said prevention and response Rogers. “Sexual assault vic- capability. Sexual assault tims need care and support, is a criminal act incompat- but they are often hesitant to ible with the Department seek help for many reasons The 2009 Navy Sexual Assault Study refl ects one in fi ve female and one in 12 male Sailors have been victims of sexual assault such as fear, shame, guilt, See SEXUAL ASSAULT, B8 during their time in service

Stars of the second Twilight series movie visit Oceana Navy Exchange

BY MC2 KRISTAN ued when the three cast ROBERTSON members appeared a cou- NAS Oceana Public Affairs ple days later. “We’re here for the DVD VIRGINIA BEACH — release party, meeting The NAS Oceana Navy some fans,” said Meraz. Exchange was full of some “This is my fi rst promotion 2,650 eager “Twilight” at a base and… knowing fans March 24 to see three what [service members] of the cast members from sacrifi ce, I’m really excited the second movie of the to be here.” series, “New Moon” pres- The event at the NEX ent to promote the DVD lasted from noon to 2 release and take time with p.m. after the fans, rang- the military community. ing from small toddlers in Alex Meraz, Daniel “Team Edward” shirts to Cudmore and Christian moms and dads alike, wait- Serratos who respectively ed in line as early as two play Paul, a fi ery spirited to three hours prior. Sales member of the werewolf of the movie on the day of pack; Felix, a member the event totaled $10,200 of the “vampire police” Photo by MC3 Ash Severe and merchandise brought Volturi coven; and An- Cast members from the Twilight movie saga: New Moon visit with fans at Naval Air Station Oceana Navy Exchange. Alex in $3,500. gela Weber, school-mate Meraz (Paul), Christian Serratos (Angela), and Daniel Cudmore (Felix) pose for photos with two fans. “I read all the books and and human friend to main really love the movies,” character Bella; posed for Navy Exchange on March the movie on March 19, Moon” shown in the food additional prizes such as a said Keeghan Loeback, pictures with 300 lucky 20. opening at 11 p.m. More court, compete for the hard-back copy of the book 12-year-old fan. “I can’t be- fans who were pre-select- The NEX had held a than 200 patrons attended “best costume,” and par- signed by the author. ed from a drawing at the midnight release party for the event to watch “New ticipate in drawings for The celebration contin- See TWILIGHT, B8 USS McFaul Sailors rescue stranded Somali mariners

BY ENSIGN of food and water, it was COLLEEN M. FLYNN evident they desperately Combined Maritime Forces Public Affairs needed our help,” said Mc- Faul’s boarding offi cer. MANAMA, Bahrain — An embarked translator The crew of a U.S. Navy facilitated communication ship saved 30 men, women between the Somali mar- and children off the coast iners and the boarding of Somalia March 25. team. USS McFaul (DDG 74), The McFaul crew im- an Arleigh Burke-class de- mediately took the Somali stroyer on a seven-month mariners on board and pre- deployment in the Gulf of pared to return them to Aden, was conducting a their homeland, offer- routine patrol about 100 ing them a place to sleep, miles off Somalia’s north blankets, water and food coast in support of counter- to make them feel as com- piracy operations when the fortable as possible for the crew spotted a small skiff. two-and-a-half-day journey The 30 people on board back to Somalia. had been stranded with no Abdulrahman Ali Bar- food and very little water haaye, one of the elders for nearly four days since rescued from the skiff, of- departing the Somali coast. fered thanks. The skiff had suffered “We gave up hope until engine failures in both out- we saw you,” said Barhaaye. board motors. “We are alive, hopeful and Photo by Sonar Technician 3rd Class Cory Phelps “Once we recognized glad to be here.” The guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) conducts a rescue operation for 29 Somali men and women on a drifting skiff there was no threat, notice- during a routine patrol. McFaul is on a seven-month deployment in the Gulf of Aden. able engine failure and lack See MARINERS, B8 HOMEFRONT NEWS SPOUSE Kitchen confessional

BY MICHELLE GALVEZ me accountable. I considered Journalist/2009 Heroes at Home Military Spouse of the Year blaming the lack of motivation on the loneliness of being a sin- I have to confess: when duty gle parent yet again and robbing calls my husband away, I put in me of the energy to plan, shop, a leave chit from the kitchen. prepare, chop, cook, serve, And I approve it. But before you eat, clean up, eat leftovers and report me to the authorities, repeat. I even thought about my children letting my- do eat regu- self off the larly. hook with Even if the excuse my husband of being just doesn’t too over- darken our whelmed doorstep on and busy to a regular ba- complete sis, healthy another task food does on the nev- make an ap- er-ending pearance to-do list. for din- Since talk- ner. It’s just ing to myself food that wasn’t elicit- also hap- ing any good pens to be answers, convenient, I turned wife with two sons, has a menu I’m motivated, I try to do some village! Once during a long de- like ap- to Facebook her kids love. “Lots of kid- meals ahead and freeze them in ployment, my 4-year-old son did ples, cheese, as soon as the friendly foods,” she explained, portions: spaghetti and meat- tell me that ‘the fish stick ring- yogurt, baby carrots and any- ketchup was squirted. I quickly “spaghetti, burgers, pizza, mac balls, taco meat and chicken pot er was going off.’” thing resembling breakfast. If it learned that the topic was uni- ‘n’ cheese, hot dogs, bagged pie filling. This lets them graze Well now I feel so much bet- doesn’t require a stove or silver- versal – in a totally unscientific meals with the fixin’s all inside, from reasonable choices. We ter. I hope you do too. Now that ware, that’s just an added bonus. and unsubstantiated study sort tacos, homemade Frito chili grab fast food more during de- all my fears have been normal- I have pizza delivery on speed of way – and that my friends pie, breakfast items for din- ployments, so I try to make the ized, I’m OK with the fact that dial and love that the new Little from all service branches, liv- ner, chicken and rice, rotisserie food at home healthy.” the closest I’m going to get to Caesar’s has $5 large pies ready ing on and off base in Hampton chicken from the store, all fixed My Navy friend Heather re- gourmet is the Food Network and waiting when I need din- Roads and overseas admitted to with some veggies and fruit on lies on her slow cooker for quick until he comes home. There- ner to go. Pizza counts for dairy, being AWOL from kitchen duty the side, of course!” and easy meals. Another sail- fore I resolve to continue filling grain, vegetable and protein, during deployments. Another friend from high or’s wife, Angela, spoils her my cart with bags of frozen right?! When a burner does get Not only were my feelings val- school I reconnected with on- son’s palate when Daddy’s away. meatballs, English muffin pizza lit, it’s usually under a pot of noo- idated by the military spouse line, Jennifer, is a Marine’s wife “Anything, we eat whatever (my ingredients, sub sandwich fill- dles that get simply served with sisterhood, but I got some good enduring a long deployment. She child) wants – cereal, eat out, fro- ings, cans of ravioli, plenty of a shaker of Parmesan and a side ideas as well. Here’s a sample of vacillates between time consum- zen meals. I don’t cook full meals produce and cases of noodles of grapes. Chicken nuggets from what I found: ing and easy dinners, “It is either that often, that is for sure.” without any guilt. the oven are another household I met my friend Kelley my one or the other. Sometimes it is I got a great idea from my And instead of feeling shame favorite which I justify as being junior year of high school in steak, potatoes, corn and bread; friend Laura, a Navy wife from a when I get funny looks in the so much healthier than the ones upstate New York, but now and other times chicken nuggets military spouse support group commissary check out line, I’ll from the drive-thru. she’s an Air Force wife living and French fries.” I attend. Not only that, but her just proudly pat my homefront But the last time I was scram- in the South. She says it’s their Catherine is a soldier’s wife son gave me a great laugh with kitchen club membership card bling eggs and popping waffles schedule that dictates her qui- I know from church and she a priceless “out of the mouth and head home to nuke us some into the toaster for supper, much et kitchen. “We’re so busy, but has found the silver lining of of babes” comment I could so dinner. to my kids’ delight by the way, I it’s pretty much the same thing cooking for minus one: “I use sadly relate to. She suggested: noticed a little doubt sneaking when he’s home too,” she said. deployments and travel sepa- “I usually end up taking turns Michelle Galvez is a Navy wife, in with the syrup. My children “It’s take-out on karate and Cub rations to make all my favorite cooking dinner with a friend or mother of three, ombudsman and were healthy, happy and didn’t Scout nights, quick and easy- foods that he does not love like two that are in the same boat. journalist. She was selected as seem to mind. But …. I won- to-fix meals on the rest of the my Mom’s tuna noodle casse- We alternate eating at one an- the 2009 Heroes at Home Mili- dered if I was turning into a weeknights with good meals on role and pot roast slow cooked other’s homes. That way we tary Spouse of the Year. Send slacker because there wasn’t an- weekends.” all day long.” She admits to do- still have nice meals and adult your deployment recipes to mi- other adult in the house to hold My neighbor Christy, a Navy ing easy sometimes, but “when company as well. It takes a [email protected].

Spring has sprung and there are MARRIEDp deals to be done to the Military BY BIANCA Reach out to NewsChannel 3’s Bianca MARTINEZ Martinez at [email protected]. Be sure to check out “Do My Military Job” count to all active duty, reservists, retired or fun. You have to head to their Web site to One of the amaz- every Wednesday at 11 p.m. disabled vets and their families. You need to register and then show ID at the entrance ing perks of being on NewsChannel 3! request the discount and show your military plaza to start making spring memories! a military family identifi cation. Same thing goes for Lowe’s. Think you need to brighten up the family ... once in a while joicing at the fact that we get to get the kids There are some exceptions of course but summer wardrobe for the mini vacay? Old big business wants outside into the fresh air, run them up and don’t let that stop you from making a back- Navy is taking care of you! They should see- to say thank you! down hills, get them on bikes and just plain yard paradise for the summer. ing as Navy is in the name! The fi rst of every There are so many wear them out. However, as we venture out After all of that family bonding and hard month, you might as well go on a spree for fabulous deals out into the backyard for some rest and relax- work for your curb appeal, you need to re- the kids. Get the shorts, the shirts, the fl ip- there right now for ation the harsh effects of winter creep in ward yourselves with some good ‘ole family pies! They will take an extra 10 percent off military families, I am seriously giddy about all around us. You know what I am talking fun! It is not going to cost you a dime if you at the register to active and veteran military it! We know how to do things on a budget, about. The deck storage box somehow split head up north on 64. Busch Gardens is giv- ID card holders! do them without complaint, and enjoy the down the middle under the weight of the ing your family a salute with their “Here’s to My mom always told me, “It never hurts rewards! My fellow families who sacrifi ce so snow. Those lovely yellow spots are totally the Heroes” program. It doesn’t get much to ask.” That has been my motto for the much, behold the joys of military discounts! obvious again now that the lawn is starting better than this deal, folks. Any active duty, past year. Anywhere I go, I ask if they of- Spring is defi nitely in the air. Moms and to come in... thank you 9-year-old boxer dog. activated or drilling reservist or Nation- fer a military discount. Just when you see Dads across Hampton Roads’ bases are re- The colors are green and brown. Time to al Guardsman gets in FREE! Think that is something to make you think nobody ap- spruce things up and Lowe’s great? Get this. It’s your hero and as many preciates the sacrifi ces military families and Home Depot are both as three direct dependents! All that savings make, the cash register tells you otherwise. out to help you! The Depot means you might as well head on up for the And I myself, am not too shy to take them has a 10 percent military dis- weekend and get a hotel room to add to the up on their offer!

You can catch Bianca Martinez anchoring the 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts with Kurt Williams during the work week. You can also follow her laughter, stress and tears as a military wife in her blog, “Married to the Military,” weekly in the Flagship. Third Annual First Class Petty Offi cer Leadership Symposium

PRESS RELEASE Naval Station Norfolk’s First Class Petty Offi cer Association Leadership Symposium will host the Third Annual Hampton Roads Area First Class Pet- ty Offi cer Leadership Symposium April 21-22, at Naval Station Schedule Norfolk’s Building C-9 Auditorium. The symposium is free and the uniform is service uniform. No meals are provided with April 21 April 22 this conference but Bellisimo Espresso Cafe will be open dur- ing the symposium. 7 - 7:45 a.m. Meet and greet 7 - 7:45 a.m. The goal of the symposium is to use experts on the topics 7:45 - 0800 a.m. Welcome and Meet and greet to talk to FCPOs about important changes in today’s Navy, including introductions 7:45 - 8 a.m. SAPR elec- tronic service records, career information and policies, and Individual 8 - 8:30 a.m. Individual augmen- brief Augmentee assignments and many more. tation 8 - 9 a.m. Chief petty offi cer This year’s theme is “First Class Leadership at the First Class Level.” 8:30 - 9 a.m. Safety selection board/continuation board The following organizations are also participating in this event: Hampton Roads Na- 9 - 9:55 a.m. Electronic service 9 - 9:15 a.m. Navy League val Museum, Fleet and Family Support Center, Naval Safety Center, Navy and Marine records 9:15 - 9:45 a.m. Exceptional family Corps Relief Society, Surface Navy Association, Navy League, Navy Federal Credit 9:55 - 10:55 a.m. Chief Warrant member program Union, and Navy College. Offi cer board 9:45 - 11 a.m. Uniform polices and All sea and shore commands are encouraged to participate in this highly education- 10:55 - 11:55 a.m. Limited Duty changes al symposium. Offi cer board 11 - 11:30 a.m. Closing remarks For more information, contact the FCPOA members: 11:55 a.m. – 1 p.m. Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. First class OS1 Erica Andrews Wilson, 445-0208. E-mail: [email protected] 1 – 3 p.m. Community Relations petty offi cer social event BM1 Cynthia Van Horn, 444-3158. E-mail: [email protected] projects SK1 Vanessa Flowers, 322-2888. E-mail: vanessa.fl [email protected] New fi tness, nutrition program introduced at annual health seminar BY MC2 KIM WILLIAMS Navy Public Affairs Support been working together asset, its Sailors.” Element East for eight years to im- Once the program hits prove physical readiness the fl eet, Sailors will have HAMPTON — The U.S. throughout the fl eet. menus, nutrition rules Navy, partnered with Ath- “We have taken a compre- and food or “fuel” infor- letes’ Performance Institute hensive approach working mation at their fi ngertips. (API), introduced the Navy with the Navy including look- After conducting several Operational Fitness and Fu- ing at the strength program, focus groups on various eling Series (NOFFS) at the warm-up and cardiovascular platforms in the fl eet, of- 49th annual Navy and Ma- fi tness demands of a Sailor,” fi cials determined that rine Corps Public Health said Paul Cauldwell, per- enclosing the science of Conference, March 25, in formance specialist, API. proper exercise and nu- Hampton. “We also looked at the nu- trition in a handy booklet The program is aimed at tritional needs a Sailor has was the best way to go to building operational per- both abroad and while they ensure that Sailors can formance in the fl eet and are deployed. We wanted to understand and apply the includes tools for Sailors to ensure that the training we fundamentals of a healthy improve their physical fi t- Photo by MC2 Sharay Bennett developed fi ts their lives diet and exercise to their ness and overall nutrition. Chief Crytologic Technician (Technical) David Ronusckeo, assigned to Navy Information just like we do for profes- lives easily. Built on fi ve pillar preps Operations Command, participates in a Tae Bo fi tness class at the Waterfront Athletic sional athletes.” The Navy will host a dem- of eat clean, eat often, Complex in building Q-80 at Naval Station Norfolk. Cauldwell added that the onstration of the exercises hydrate, recover and mind- “NOFFS is a complete Installations Command. tainly a departure from what overall goal of the Navy and it developed along with Ath- set, NOFFS allows those workout and nutritional pro- The Navy will roll the pro- has become familiar within API is to decrease injury to letes’ Performance during a once stumped at the no- gram that will eliminate the gram and its resources out our general population; it’s Sailors based on a seden- workshop in April at Naval tion of building effective guess work for Sailors so to the fl eet in June 2010 and far more contemporary and tary lifestyle. Air Station Oceana. eating habits and exercise they can go about their dai- it will become part of the will accentuate our ability “We noticed a lack of For more information routines the ability to jump- ly fi tness routines without command fi tness leader to perform at a higher lev- consistency across the about the NOFFS program, start their performance by having to seek someone out course in 2011. el operationally with greater board in our research,” visit www.nmcphc.med.navy. selecting foods and exercis- to help them,” said Lisa Sex- “The program will take durability and less risk for said Cauldwell. We want to mil/Healthy_Living/Physi- es that will help them meet auer, program manager of us into a whole new realm injury.” bring that to the fl eet. Ul- cal_Fitness/NOFFS.aspx. the daily demands of their fi tness and injury preven- of physical readiness in the The Navy and Ath- timately, we want to take For more news, visit www. operational duties. tion for Commander, Navy Navy,” said Sexauer. “It’s cer- letes’ Performance have care of the Navy’s biggest navy.mil. CHAPLAIN’S CORNER Local Seven Deadly Sins: Laziness

BY LT. CMDR. PAUL HYDER lazy person becomes a ser- do” (Ephesians 2:10). ly for his immediate family, service times Basic School Chaplain, vant (or debtor). “Diligent God’s people are not saved he has denied the faith and MCB Quantico hands will rule, but laziness by works, but they do show is worse than an unbeliever” LDS PROGRAMS This article is the last in a ends in slave labor” (12:24). their faith by their works (1 Timothy 5:8); and for oth- series that the chaplains here His future is bleak: “A slug- (James 2:18, 26). Slothful- ers. JEB Little Creek Chapel Worship Schedule: at MCB Quantico have writ- gard does not plow in season; ness violates God’s purpose The consequences of lazi- Noon — Sun. Worship (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) ten on what are commonly so at harvest time he looks – good works. The Lord, how- ness are cumulative and long 8 p.m. — Wed. Bible Study called “The Seven Deadly but fi nds nothing” (20:4). He ever, empowers His people lasting. We snowball into a (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) Sins.” Perhaps it is ironic that may come to poverty: “The to overcome the fl esh’s pro- lifestyle that is both physi- I was the last one to write my soul of the lazy man desires pensity to laziness by giving cally unhealthy, as well as article and the subject of the and has nothing; but the soul us a new nature (2 Corinthi- unproductive. Spiritually and NAVAL STATION NORFOLK article is laziness. However, of the diligent shall be made ans 5:17). mentally we can also snow- it wasn’t so much that I pro- rich” (13:4 KJV). In our new nature, we are ball into a habitual life of ROMAN CATHOLIC PROTESTANT crastinated as that I made There is no room for lazi- motivated to diligence and laziness that keeps us from Our Lady of Victory Chapel David Adams Memorial other things a priority. ness in the life of a Marine or productiveness out of a love being our best for God. Mass Schedule: Chapel Worship Services: Science has a lot to say sailor. There is no room for for our Savior who redeemed Laziness (of both the body 11:45 a.m.— Wed. 10:30 a.m.— Sun. about laziness. Newton’s fi rst laziness in the life of a Chris- us. Our old propensity to- and the mind) if we are not 10 a.m.— Sun.. Worship law of motion states that an tian either. A new believer ward laziness (as well as all careful can become a lifestyle For more information call object in motion tends to re- is truthfully taught that “… other sin) has been replaced that is detrimental to our well Naval Station Norfolk Chapel 444-7361 main in motion, and an object it is by grace you have been by a desire to live godly lives: being. Laziness is overcome at rest tends to remain at rest. saved, through faith – and this “He who has been stealing by identifying its causes and While some are naturally not from yourselves, it is the must steal no longer, but having an awareness of its driven to complete projects, gift of God – not by works, so must work, doing something consequences. The best way JEWISH PROGRAMS others are apathetic, requir- that no one can boast” (Ephe- useful with his own hands, to overcome our bent to- Commodore Uraih P. Levy Chapel: Jewish services are ing motivation to overcome sians 2:8-9). But a believer that he may have something wards laziness to it is to have at Norfolk chapel in Building C7 on the Second Floor inertia. can become idle if he false- to share with those in need” oneself occupied all the time every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Building C7 is located at 1630 The Bible has a lot to say ly believes God expects no (Ephesians 4:28). with some meaningful work Morris St. on Naval Base Norfolk. For more information about laziness as well. And fruit from his or her new life. We are convicted of our (with of course, appropriate call 444-7361 or 7363. since from the beginning “For we are God’s workman- need to provide for our fam- times of rest mixed in.) (Genesis 2:15) God ordained ship, created in Christ Jesus ilies through our labors: “If It is true as the saying work for man and laziness is to do good works, which God anyone does not provide for goes; “an idle mind is the sin. prepared in advance for us to his relatives, and especial- devil’s workshop.” MUSLIM PROGRAMS Proverbs is especially fi lled Masjid al Da’wah with wisdom concerning lazi- 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7): Muslim services are ness and warnings to the lazy at Norfolk chapel every Friday at 1:30 p.m. person. Proverbs tells us that Guitar Hero: Fukuoka Children’s Hospital a lazy person hates work: “The sluggard’s craving will be the death of him, because JEB LITTLE CREEK CHAPEL his hands refuse to work” ROMAN CATHOLIC Confessions: (21:25). He loves sleep: “As Mass Schedule: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. — Sat. a door turns on its hinges, so 5 p.m.— Sat. PROTESTANT a sluggard turns on his bed” (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) 9 a.m. — Sun. School (26:14). He gives excuses: 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m. — Sun. (4 years-Adult) “The sluggard says, ‘There is 11:30 a.m. — Tues. - Fri. 10:30 a.m. — Sun. a lion in the road, a fi erce lion (except holidays) Divine Worship, roaming the streets’” (26:13). Children’s Church He wastes time and ener- (Ages 4-10) gy: “He who is slothful in his PWOC: Bible Study at the Chapel Annex Every Wed. work is a brother to him who Fellowship: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: 10 a.m. - noon is a great waster” (18:9 KJV). PWOC: Evening Bible Study Every Mon.: 7 p.m. He believes he is wise, but is a fool: “The sluggard is wis- Latter Day Saints Coffeehouse er in his own eyes than seven 11:30 a.m. — Sun. 6 p.m. — Sun. Photo by MC3 Brian Goodwin men who answer discreetly” Lt. Ryan Bareng, a chaplain assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) For more information call JEB (26:16). embarked aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47), plays Little Creek Chapel 462-7427 Proverbs also tells us the guitar while dancing the Hokey-Pokey with a patient at Fukuoka Children’s Hospital, end in store for the lazy: A Fukuoka, Japan. CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

Photo by Lt. Eric Hammen Training Support Center Hampton Roads staff and students pictured at a kayak expedition on Back Bay coordinated by Lt. Eric Hammen and Mr. Rob Lindauer. Navy lieutenant shares his love of Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead speaks to Sailors in the Religious God, the water Program Specialist program at the Navy Chaplaincy School at Fort Jackson, S.C. with TSCHR Sailors CNO visits Naval BY ROBIN HOLLAND Training Support Center Hampton Roads Chaplaincy School, IA Public Affairs While a chaplain’s role is to be a con- in training at Ft. Jackson stant reminder of the love of God, Lt. Eric Hammen, Training Support Center STORY AND PHOTO BY of the services so that Augmentee training con- Hampton Roads (TSCHR) Chaplain pro- MC2 (SW) KYLE P. MALLOY should a Navy chaplain ducted on base. vides pastoral care and guidance in ways Chief of Naval Operations be called upon to minister “I really just wanted to Public Affairs in which junior Sailors can relate. to someone from another stop by and thank you for Not only does Lt. Eric Hammen run an service, there is a great what you are about to do,” outstanding religious program he seeks FORT JACKSON, understanding of that said Roughead. “It’s an expe- every opportunity to build relation- S.C. — Chief of Naval service’s ethos, that ser- rience that you won’t forget, ships with TSCHR Sailors teaching them Operations (CNO) Adm. vice’s culture and some it’s an experience that I unique ways to grow their souls on the Gary Roughead visited of the issues that families think you will look back on water. Hammen who has been stationed both the Naval Chaplain- face in the different ser- very favorably in the future, at TSCHR for a little over two years has Photo by Robin Holland cy School and Center vices,” said Roughead. and it’s an experience that Lt. Eric Hammen pictured on a stand up pad- made a huge impact on the junior sailors (NCSC) and Individual On his visit to Fort will make a difference.” dle surf board. Hammen paddled alongside in Hampton Roads. “Chaplain Hammen TSCHR staff and students while on a recent Augmentees in training, Jackson, CNO also had For more news from really cares about our junior Sailors. He kayak expedition, Back Bay in Virginia Beach. while at Fort Jackson, the opportunity to speak Chief of Naval Operations, has made great strides by coordinating S.C., March 23. with Sailors who were at- visit www.navy.mil/local/ positive activities for our staff and stu- comes to helping out people and com- NCSC is the training fa- tending the Individual cno/. dents to enjoy,” said Chief Machinist munity involvement Lindauer has always cility for Navy, Army, and Mate Kenneth Crowley, TSCHR Drug been a huge advocate. With every kayak Air Force chaplains and and Alcohol Program Advisor. expedition and surf clinic Hammen has is where the Religious During his tenure, Hammen has made coordinated, Lindauer has graciously Program Specialist (RP) Holy Week it his primary mission to get to know the given the TSCHR Sailors deep discounts A-School is facilitated. Sailors at TSCHR by the way of coordi- so that they too can experience the great CNO said naval chap- and Easter schedule nating fun, healthy activities such as surf outdoors while getting plenty of exercise lains and RP’s play a Roman Catholic Easter Schedule camps and kayak expeditions. “I make it and just having clean healthy fun. “Giv- crucial role in the Navy’s a point to show our Sailors there’s more ing back to the community by getting overall mission. Holy Thursday...... April 1, 7 p.m. to the Hampton Roads area than just club- involved is just who I am,” said Lindauer “I think in this time of Mass of the Lord’s Supper bing,” said Hammen. Together with the a former lifeguard. “I feel when you are war, the role of our chap- Good Friday...... April 2, 7 p.m. help of his friends at the Surf & Adven- socially responsible, it’s always a win- lains and the roles of our Celebration of the Lord’s passion ture Co. located near Sandbridge Beach, win.” RP’s are even more im- Easter Sunday...... April 4, 10 a.m. Mass of the Resurrection Hammen has coordinated 12 kayak trips Hammen is scheduled to transfer portant as our men and (No Confessions) and several surf clinics. Rob Lindau- from TSCHR to Marine Corps Air Sta- women are in combat Protestant Easter Schedule er, Shop-Owner, Surf and Adventurer tion, Cherry Point, NC, in early April. (and) as we are deploy- Co., has been key in helping Hammen “Chaplain Hammen and the numerous ing at a pace that is quite Easter Worship Service...... April 4, 10:30 a.m. show the Sailors at TSCHR how to have contributions he has made to TSC will busy,” said Roughead. a great time without drinking. When it be greatly missed,” said Crowley. CNO said the facility at NCSC will help provide 83rd annual the highest standard of training with a great em- Easter Sunrise Service phasis on collaboration. “I think having the chap- VIRGINIA BEACH — Joint Expeditionary Base lains from all the services Little Creek-Fort Story will host its 83rd annual Easter together allows us to bet- Sunrise Service at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 4 at the ter understand each of the Cape Henry Memorial Cross on JEB East (former Fort services,” said Roughead. Story). This will be the first year that the service has “It allows for there to be a been held as a joint base. better exchange for ideas The guest speaker for this year’s service will be Navy and perhaps methods.” Capt. Dale Parker, Regional Chaplain. Roughead talked about Our site for the service is a historically rich site with a the positive impact the four hundred year history of our first settlers who land- new co-located education- ed at First Landing (Cape Henry) on April 26, 1607. The al environment will have memorial cross was erected in 1935 by the Daughters on the Navy and other of the American Colonists to commemorate the raising military services. of a cross by the settlers who first landed in America in “I think the Navy and 1607. The Cape Henry Memorial Cross is a part of the the other services will be Colonial National Historical Park administered by the able to put together bet- National Park Service. Photo by Robin Holland ter programs, they’ll be This event is open to the public. For more information GMSA Emily Rimer and GMSA Malisha Eley pictured on Back Bay during a recent kayak able to understand the please call the JEBLCFS Chapel at 462-7427. expedition coordinated by Lt. Eric Hammen and Rob Lindauer. drivers that are in each Bataan, 22nd MEU complete Operation Unified Response support PRESS RELEASE From USS Bataan Public Affairs An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter NORFOLK — Multipurpose amphibious assault ship Sea Combat Squadron USS Bataan (LHD 5) and embarked Marines from the 22nd (HSC) 22 delivers pallets Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) completed support to of supplies to the multi- Operation Unified Response and departed Haiti March 24 af- purpose amphibious ter 10 weeks on-station. assault ship USS Bataan Bataan surged from her homeport of Norfolk, just 48 hours (LHD 5) as the amphibious after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti, and ar- dock landing ship USS rived on-station off the coast of the island nation Jan. 18. Carter Hall (LSD 50) breaks away during a vertical Within two days, 23 patients had been brought to the ship replenishment involving either by helicopter or landing craft air cushion (LCAC.) Carter Hall, Bataan and the Multipurpose amphibious assault ships like Bataan have a Military Sealift Command unique design: a 844-foot flight deck for air operations and a dry cargo and ammunition well deck to launch and recover amphibious craft. Those in- ship USNS Sacagawea (T- herent capabilities – along with a medical facility second only AKE 2). Carter Hall and to the Military Sealift Command hospital ships USNS Com- Bataan are supporting fort and Mercy – made the platform ideal for the mission in Operation Unified Haiti. Response off the coast of Haiti after a 7.0 magnitude “These ships are made to be flexible. As the mission earthquake Jan. 12. evolved, our tasks changed frequently, but we were able to Photo by MCC Tony Sisti meet every requirement,” said Capt. Steve Koehler, Bataan’s commanding officer. “Add that to the work of a dedicated Group. ultimately removing 150 tons of rubble, building 65 shelters crew that never said no, and I was inspired every day we “It’s one thing to be told you’re making a difference, it’s for 130 families and distributing more than 500,000 meals. were on station.” another to look into the eyes of a life you’ve changed forev- “I was on the very first SAM, and I remember the streets Helicopters and LCACs operating from Bataan trans- er,” said Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman (SW/AW) Huben being empty, and rubble and ruin everywhere,” said Aviation ported nearly 1,000 pallets of relief supplies, medically Phillips, an independent duty corpsman who treated patients Ordnanceman (AW/SW) Howard King, from Charleston, evacuated 97 patients to Bataan and provided transport for ashore by day and returned to Bataan to treat more patients S.C. “By the last SAM, there was a huge difference; the another 524 Haitian patients to and from USNS Comfort, at night. streets were full of people, stores were open, and life was re- USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and hospitals throughout Port- Bataan collectively looked into those eyes when 8 lb., 3 oz. juvenated in Grand Goave.” au-Prince. Theo Joe, a baby boy, was born healthy Jan. 30 in the ship’s The Navy and Marine team worked with various U.S. and “The Sailors and Marines aboard Bataan gave unself- hospital. His mother had been medically evacuated to the partner government organizations, numerous independent ishly of themselves for more than two months, and made ship by LCAC from Grand Goave. aid organizations operating in the area, and local Haitian a life-changing impact on the people of Haiti,” said Capt. The Bataan crew unofficially adopted the child’s home- leaders delivering aid, and helping the communities prepare Tom Negus, commander of the Bataan Amphibious Ready town, conducting 22 “Sailors Ashore Missions” (SAM), for long-term reconstruction. The Department of the Navy has become increasingly involved with other U.S. government agencies and non-gov- ernmental organizations (NGOs) since it adopted a new Maritime Strategy in 2007 that elevated stability missions to the same priority as combat operations and committed itself to working more closely with its civilian partners. For more news form USS Bataan visit www.navy.mil/ local/lhd5. USS Bush Sailors return from 8-month Nimitz deployment BY MCSN plish goals like qualifications J. SCOTT ST. CLAIR and certifications. I feel that USS George H.W. Bush the knowledge and experi- (CVN 77) Public Affairs ence I acquired out there is NORFOLK — More than something I can bring back 70 USS George H.W. Bush with me.” (CVN 77) Sailors returned According to Miller, the to Norfolk, March 22, after Nimitz’ commanding offi- an eight-month deployment cer had nothing but positive with USS Nimitz (CVN 68). feedback about the Sailors’ The Sailors were sent from performance. the Navy’s tenth and final “I’m so proud of our Sail- Nimitz-class aircraft carri- ors,” said Miller. “They had er, to the first Nimitz-class the opportunity to gain so aircraft carrier to receive much experience that they training, qualifications, and can now bring back to bene- to aid Nimitz in her routine fit us. It really adds depth to deployment to the Western our team when we have Sail- Pacific in support of the mar- ors that have been through a itime strategy. full deployment.” The Sailors arrived at Na- Of the six departments val Station Norfolk’s Air that provided volunteer aug- Mobility Command terminal mentees, Air Department where they were welcomed personnel made up the over- home by family, friends and whelming majority with 56 their Bush shipmates. members. Bush’s Air Boss “Our Sailors did marvel- Cmdr. Matthew G. West- ous work,” said Capt. “Chip” fall expressed his gratitude Miller, Bush’s commanding to have many of his Sailors officer. “It’s only fitting to back and to work with them give them a great homecom- for the first time. ing.” “I’m meeting 42 of my Sail- Sailors from Bush’s Air, ors for the first time tonight,” Supply, Weapons, Reactor, he said, “and they’re showing Operations, and Aircraft In- up with qualifications and ex- termediate Maintenance perience. They’re bringing a departments detached from lot to an already solid team.” the aircraft carrier July Westfall also said he has 29, for what was originally high hopes for the returning scheduled to be a six-month Sailors and for the future. deployment. The deployment “We have everybody was extended for an addition- home for the first time,” he al two months. said. “This marks the end of “The extra two months our Air Department training were worth it,” said Avia- abroad. Now the tables have tion Support Equipment turned, now we can begin Technician 2nd Class (AW) qualifying Sailors from oth- Matthew I. Brandvold. “It er commands. We’re paying gave us more time to accom- back our debt to the fleet.” Motorcycle safety awareness at Naval Station Norfolk

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All military personnel who operate a motorcycle on or off base, and all Department of Defense (DoD) civilian personnel who operate a motorcycle on base are required to complete a Commander Naval Safety Center (COMNAVSAFECEN) ap- proved motorcycle rider safety course prior to operating these vehicles aboard the Naval Station. The training is provided, on base, by the Sewell’s Point safety office, free of charge. To obtain class schedules go to www.navymotorcyclerider.com or for more information on motorcycle safety training offered at Naval Station Norfolk, contact the Sewells Point Safety Of- fice (SPSO) at 322-2917/28. Motorcycle safety remains a key concern aboard Naval Station Norfolk. Each day hundreds of Sailors and/or DoD civilians navigate Naval Station on motorcycles and our de- sire is to ensure every motorcycle rider is safe. Unfortunately, the number of safety infractions seen on a daily basis is reason for concern, especially in the area of Per- sonal Protective Equipment (PPE). File photo In Accordance With (IAW) Ref. A (OPNAV 5100.12H CH-1 If a Sailor wants to ride a motorcycle on Naval Station Norfolk, they need to have the proper personal protective equipment, such dated June 25, 2008), all motorcycle operators accessing De- as DOT/Snell certified helmet, long trousers, protective eye device and sturdy over the ankle footwear, among other things. A Sailor partment of the Navy installations must be formally trained is also required to complete an approved motorcycle rider safety course prior to riding on Naval Station Norfolk. and possess a valid motorcycle driver license, vehicle regis- tration and required insurance. In an effort to help curb some designed for use on a motorcycle. Motorcycle jackets con- 500cc, the MSF Experienced Rider Course (ERC) or MSF of the most notable safety infractions Naval Station Nor- structed of abrasion resistant materials such as leather, Military Sport bike Rider Course (MSRC), as appropriate, folk security personnel will refuse access to any person not Kevlar, and/or Cordura and containing impact absorbing shall be taken on the privately-owned motorcycle as soon as wearing all the required and approved PPE. IAW Ref. A, the padding are highly recommended. possible, ideally, no later than 60 days after completion of the required PPE is: To enhance safety, garments constructed of brightly col- BRC. Every week the instructors work tirelessly to train ev- A. Helmet meeting department of transportation (DoT), ored and reflective materials are highly recommended during ery registered Sailor and their greatest source of frustration Snell memorial foundation certification shall be worn and daylight hours. Reflective outer garments or vest must be remains no-shows. All courses are valid for three years. properly fastened under the chin. Fake or novelty helmets worn during hours of darkness and must not be obstructed If a rider is unable to attend a class for which they’ve re- are strictly prohibited. by backpacks (unless the backpack itself is made of reflec- ceived a quota, it is important they contact SPSO and cancel B. Protective eye devices designed for motorcycle opera- tive material). their attendance so another Sailor may be enrolled. Com- tors (impact or shatter resistant safety glasses, goggles, wrap All required motorcycle training is available on base. Cours- mands will continue to be notified of no shows. Failure to around glasses sealing the eye, or face shield properly at- es include the Basic Rider Course (BRC), Experienced Rider cancel course reservations in a timely manner results in tached to the helmet) shall be properly worn. A windshield, Course (ERC), the Military Sport bike Rider Course (MSRC) empty seats that may have otherwise been filled with other standard sunglasses or standard eyewear alone, are not prop- and basic rider course with training motorcycles (250cc) for deserving riders. er eye protection. potential motorcycle riders. Naval Station Norfolk is dedicated to enforcing all mo- C. Sturdy, over the ankle footwear that affords protection SPAO has 250cc sport bikes for Sailors to complete train- torcycle safety measures and requests all tenant command for the feet and ankles shall be worn. ing prior to purchasing motorcycles. If the BRC training is leadership to help enforce all Navy standards. Riders who fail D. Riders and passengers shall wear a long sleeved shirt completed on one of these 250cc trainer motorcycles and the to comply with PPE will be refused access to the Naval Station or jacket, long trousers, and full-fingered gloves or mittens course graduate plans to operate a motorcycle greater than and failure to comply with licensing and motorcycle training may result in denial of access to the installation, department of defense traffic citations, revocation of driving privileges and disciplinary/administrative actions. Naval Station Nor- folk will strictly enforce compliance with requirements at all access control points and designated monitoring areas, and random checks will be conducted to ensure riders have all necessary licensing and registration paperwork, as well as DoD decals. Command involvement with PPE and training compliance is required. “Motorcycle Safety continues to be a huge concern. My attention is directed toward our Entry Control Points and making sure all Sailors entering the Naval Station wear all the proper personal protective equipment,” said Naval Station Norfolk, Command Master Chief Gregg Snaza. “If a person tries to access the base with anything less than 100 percent correct PPE, he or she is refused access. This policy appears File photo to be working, because I have seen far less safety infractions Sailors practice looking back during the Basic Riders Course (BRC) on Naval Station Norfolk. The BRC is available to all active this year than I did a year ago.” duty service members free of charge. TWILIGHT: Fans flock to greet cast notables SEXUAL ASSAULT:

Continued from page B1 bers first met with 10 local ron (VFA) 31 for an F/A-18 6-foot, 7-inch tall actor Cud- members of the Wounded flight demonstration where more found out it was best Navy has ‘zero tolerance’ lieve they’re here. I’m not Warriors Project, next met they met pilots and learned to stick to an acting career sure who’s more exited, me their fans, then went on what Oceana squadron op- since he couldn’t fit into the Continued from page B1 or my mom!” base for a flight simulation erations are all about. cockpit of a jet correctly. All At the NEX, the cast mem- and to Strike Fighter Squad- At the flight simulation, three actors were extreme- Navy’s core values and ethos, said Rogers. “The Secretary ly personable to anyone of the Navy’s vision of the program is to have a cultur- who approached and they ally-aware and educated total force environment that is were interested in learning intolerant of sexual assault that is supported by a well-de- about the jets. fined prevention, reporting, investigation, military justice, As for the explosion in and victim advocacy program. The SAPR program is im- popularity of the movies portant because it provides victims with advocacy and and the traveling of the cast intervention services; promotion of a sensitive, coordinat- for promotions, Serratos ed, and effective management of sexual assault cases.” explained about the off-set The Navy’s goal of establishing and maintaining a relationship, “It’s like be- “zero tolerance” policy of sexual assault is reflected in the ing a part of a family; we’re SECNAVINST 1752.4A, OPNAVINST 1752.1B, and COM- all on the same page and NAVREGMIDLANT 1752.1A, according to Rogers. continuously get closer as Rogers said as of June 2005, there are two ways a victim we work together. I look at can report sexual assault. them like my big brothers “Victims can choose a restricted reporting option or and sisters, it’s excellent.” an unrestricted reporting option. Restricted reporting Each of the three allows the victim to obtain medical treatment, advocacy, members received a per- and supportive services without identifying them to the sonalized command ball command or notifying law enforcement of the incident. cap and flight jacket from It gives a victim of sexual assault the option of obtaining the Oceana NEX as part of services without triggering an investigation. The victim their visit to Oceana. can disclose the incident of sexual assault to certain spec- ified individuals to obtain advocacy, medical, counseling and/or supportive services,” said Rogers. “Unrestricted Reporting gives a victim who desires medical treatment, counseling, advocacy services, possible command as- MARINERS: sistance regarding safety or assignment, and allows the investigative process to proceed.” Somalis “It is important for victims to understand that the re- stricted reporting option can only be guaranteed if the thankful for sexual assault victim talks to a sexual assault response coordinator (SARC) or SAPR Victim Advocate before speaking to anyone else, including a friend or a family helping hands member,” continued Rogers. Rogers said the SAPR program incorporates a coordinat- Naval Station Norfolk temporarily closes Gilbert Street Continued from page B1 ed systems approach inclusive of medical, legal, security, Chaplains, Fleet and Family Support personnel, trained Naval Station Norfolk will temporarily close a major east-west thoroughfare aboard Helping the Somali mar- command SAPR personnel, and civilian resources. the installation. Gilbert Street will be closed to thru traffic from 6 p.m., April 2 until 6 p.m., April 11 to upgrade central steam lines.The specific closure location will be from iners became a shipwide “The SARCs train and oversee SAPR Victim Advo- the intersection at Farragut Street to the N-24 (Gym) pedestrian crosswalk. event, whether repairing the cates, SAPR Points of Contact, SAPR Data Collection Recommended access to the air side of the base (east of Bainbridge Ave/Gate 3A) skiff’s engines or supplying Coordinators, and SAPR command liaisons. The SAPR is via Gates 4, 10 or 22 on Granby Street and/or Ridgewell Ave. Access to the water the rescued mariners with Victim Advocates are first responders for victims of sex- side of the base (west of Bainbridge Ave./Gate 3A) is via Gates 1, 2, 5 or 6 on Hampton food, water, shelter, life jack- ual assault. The Navy provides 24/7 response capability Blvd. and/or Admiral Taussig Blvd. Detour route will be Maryland or Bainbridge ets and blankets. for sexual assaults on or off the installation and during de- Avenues to Massey Hughes Drive. “This was a rewarding ployment through trained SAPR Victim Advocates,” said For more information about the Gilbert Street closure, contact Terri Davis, Public experience,” said one of Rogers. “SAPR Victim Advocates meet with the victims, Affairs Officer, Naval Station Norfolk, 322-2576, cell 438-4245. the boarding team mem- provide information about the restricted and unrestricted bers. “They appreciated our reporting options, and provide support to the victim in ad- Naval Station Norfolk relocates Gate 10 efforts and were very thank- dition to the medical, investigative, counseling, and legal ful.” services provided to the victim. The SARCs will provide In an effort to create a more pedestrian friendly road along “A” Street and to prepare McFaul returned the 30 case management support and review the case monthly at for the demolition of the Mason Creek Bridge in late 2010, Naval Station Norfolk has Somalian mariners safely the installation Sexual Assault Case Management Group relocated Gate 10 one block south to “B” Street and Ridgewell Ave. The new gate will be open beginning Monday, Mar. 29 at 5 a.m. ashore March 27 with their (SACMG) until conclusion of case.” For more information about the gate, contactTerri Davis, Public Affairs Officer, Naval repaired skiff at the small Station Norfolk, 322-2576, cell 438-4245. fishing village of Ceelaaya, Somalia. SAPR Conference McFaul is assigned to Fleet And Family Support and SAPR Program In- Combined Task Force 151, stallation SARCs have organized a Sexual Assault which is a 24-nation task Prevention and Response (SAPR) Victim Advocate force, which was established Conference to be conducted on April 7, 8 a.m. - noon in January 2009, to conduct at JEB Little Creek-Fort Story Gator Theater. counterpiracy operations. For more news, visit www. The conference will provide an opportunity for navy.mil. Command SAPR Personnel to receive advanced and refresher training, education and prevention tools to in- corporate into their current sexual assault prevention and response programs, and will allow Victim Advo- cates to further enhance their victim response and service delivery skills. It will also provide command leadership with information on resources and assis- tance available for implementing a comprehensive command SAPR program. Guest speakers include Sexual Assault Prevention and Response experts, EEO, JAG, and community resource providers. All levels of command leadership are being encouraged to attend.” Registration for the conference is required. To reg- ister for classes, individuals should contact their Installation SARC: Norfolk/Portsmouth SARC 444- 2230, DSN 564-2230; Oceana SARC 433-2912, DSN 433-2912; JEB Little Creek SARC 462-7563, DSN 253- 7563; Yorktown/Newport News/Sugar Grove SARC 688-6289. USS Truman holds NCPACE orientation for Spring semester BY MC2 DAVID WYSCAVER USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs college credit towards a degree. “The Navy offers two points to- USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, wards advancement test scores At sea — Navy College Pro- for those Sailors who have an gram for Afloat College Education associate’s degree,” said Laura (NCPACE) course orientation was Page, Navy College Office Nor- hosted by USS Harry S. Truman folk education advisor. “Obtaining (CVN 75) Navy College Office a degree helps those who are advisors March 15-19 for Sailors looking to compete in the civil- interested in earning college cred- ian job market because is shows its towards an academic degree. a core base of knowledge, critical The orientation was designed thinking skills and initiative.”

Photo by MC1 Martine Cuaron to offer an overview of the For more information regarding Italian navy Lt. Federico Panconi, left, from Rome, assigned to Africa Partnership Station (APS) West, embarked NCPACE and Distance Learning the upcoming NCPACE semester aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), shows an example of an accurate fishing programs. Topics covered includ- and other educational topics visit log entry to Ghanaian navy 2nd Lt. Kwadwo Ansong, right, from Sekondi, an APS student, as part of a fisheries ed prerequisites for enrollment, the Education Services officer or workshop aboard a Ghanaian fishing boat in Albert Busomtwi-Sam Fishing Harbor. APS is a multinational Asset testing (required for par- the Navy College Office. initiative developed by Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and U.S. Naval Forces Africa to work with U.S. and ticipation in Math and English For more news from USS Harry international partners to enhance maritime safety and security on the continent of Africa. courses), and one-on-one coun- S. Truman, visit www.navy.mil/ seling to discuss degree plans. local/cvn75/. “We do a lot of counseling to APS Gunston Hall holds small-boat help assist Sailors with career goals both personally and profes- operations training for African sailors sionally,” said Jim Schermerhorn, Navy College Office Norfolk ed- BY MC1 (SW/AW) MARTIN CUARON reaching each student.” ucation advisor. “We help set USS Gunston Hall Public Affairs “The instructors were able to break down the train- Sailors up for success and pro- ing material so we could better understand it,” said vide them with the tools they SEKONDI, Ghana — Sailors from Nigeria, Benin, Nigerian Navy Petty Officer Obalaja Ademola, from need to achieve their education- and Ghana participated in basic small-boat operations Lagos, Nigeria. “I very much appreciate the training al goals.” training as part of Africa Partnership Station (APS) APS has provided me.” Open registration for the up- West aboard Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock- “It’s very good, I am learning a lot of different things, coming semester is March 23-30. landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), while the some things I knew already and things I didn’t know,” Actual classroom instruction will Remembering Navy- ship was in Sekondi, Ghana, March 11-19. said Ghanaian Navy Able Seaman 1st Class Edward begin May 3 and conclude on Marine Corps Relief A training team from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Inter- Lamptey, from Sekondi. “So the things I didn’t know June 26. Students are expected Society in your will (or national Training Division held a series of courses on a I’ll be able to apply to my day-to-day job, and because to attend class six days a week, living trust) is one of the variety of topics from boat-handling to man-overboard of the training I received, I’ll be more prepared.” Monday through Saturday. easiest and best ways to recovery drills. The training also helped these sailors establish For Truman Sailors interest- ensure that the Society’s “Maritime safety and security is a very broad umbrel- friendships and build camaraderie. ed in obtaining college credit, crucial work will continue la, and part of any Coast Guard maritime operation is “I wish I could be together with my classmates for the following courses are sched- for generations to come? going to include boats but more specifically small-boat the rest of my life,” said Lamptey. “We are already ex- uled for instruction for the operations,” said Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer changing contact information and I plan to forever upcoming semester: English Including the Society as a Earl Schlemmer, from Ellwood City, Pa. “Particular- keep in touch with them.” 1301: Composition I, English beneficiary of your will can be as ly for a nation or nations that have limited resources, The sailors also learned about maritime law en- 1302 Composition II, History simple as adding an amendment small-boats operation is a good step in securing ports forcement and coastal search-and-rescue operations. 1301 United States History I, (or codicil) to your existing and patrolling territorial waters, no matter what part of Once completed, they can return to their respective History 1302 United States His- document. NMCRS can provide the world you’re in.” countries with additional knowledge on maritime tory II, History 2311 Western sample bequest wording and a A mixture of classroom lectures and hands-on know-how. Civilization I, Psychology 2301 codicil form. training scenarios took the sailors off the shores of “APS is all about providing maritime security off the General Psychology, Psychology Please contact the Society Sekondi Naval Base aboard 11- and 7-meter ridged- coast of Africa, and I am proud to be a part of it,” he 2308 Child Psychology, PSYCH for further information! Let hull inflatable boats (RHIB) to provide a more practical said. 2314 Life Span Growth and De- them know how they can be of environment. APS is an international security cooperation initiative velopment and DSMA 0307 assistance. “As an instructor, you learn that there are several aimed at building and strengthening long-term rela- Intermediate Algebra. Contact your local NMCRS different ways that people learn and take in the infor- tionships and global maritime partnerships through Many advantages exist person- Office today! mation,” said Schlemmer. “So we try and mix in many training and other collaborative activities, to improve ally and professionally for Sailors NMCRS: Your First Resource different teaching techniques and methods to try maritime safety and security. who are interested in earning www.nmcrs.org