Monthly Newsletter www.cnic.navy.mil/jaxairnews Vol. 78 - No. 8 - Jacksonville, Fla. June 2020 TOCRON-11 New COVID-19 restrictions set performs From Commander, Navy Region Southeast

COVID-19 remains a threat to our people and Assumption our mission that we cannot ignore. As the Navy makes risk-based decisions to enable travel to resume and allow bases to reduce their Health Photos by Julie M. Lucas Protection Conditions (HPCON), it is imperative Ceremony that we do not forget our individual responsibili- Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing ties to protect our shipmates. Every one of us must From Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Eleven Capt. Matthew Pottenburgh, gives his hold ourselves, and each other, accountable for Public Affairs remarks during the Assumption of Command for Tactical Operations Control Squadron our action toward containing COVID-19 and not (TOCRON) 11, formerly known as Mobile allowing it in our workplaces. Tactical Operations Control Squadron Tactical Operations Center (MTOC), at NAS U.S. Fleet Forces Command issued a Frafgmen- (TOCRON) 11 took the first step toward standing Jacksonville, June 17. The former MTOC 0fficer tary Order this week reemphasizing the need to up as an official command aboard Naval Air in charge was Cmdr. Donte Jackson (center) and follow proper protocols and guidelines to protect Station (NAS) Jacksonville, June 17. the new commander for TOCRON 11 is Cmdr. the Navy workforce during the pandemic. The Capt. Matthew Pottenburgh, commander, Patrol Annie Gilson. order highlights the need to maintain Force Health and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven (CPRG-11), Protection Measures both on and off installations - served as the guest speaker at the assumption even when the local community has less stringent ceremony welcoming the command’s first measures in place of when the state is depicted as commanding officer, Cmdr. Anne Gilson. green on the Navy Travel Tracker. “This is a watershed moment for the Maritime and Until an installation is approved to change their Patrol Reconnaissance Force to welcome Tactical status to HPCON Bravo, Charlie measures will Operations Control Squadron 11 officially to Naval continue to be followed. Service members and Air Station Jacksonville,” said Pottenburgh. commands are required to adhere to the following As of June 2020, 179 personnel, to include 26 measures: officers and 153 enlisted personnel, have reported * Cancel unit/installation-sponsored events. to TOCRON-11. * Issue instructions to personnel to avoid large "As the first commanding officer of public gatherings and practice social distancing. TOCRON-11, I am proud to serve alongside such * Maximize telework plans for telework ready committed and dedicated Sailors in this critical employees. mission,” said Gilson. “Our efforts provide the * Re-scope, modify, delay or cancel upcoming Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force with exercises. robust, agile, and reliable Tactical Operation * Continue to approve leave and travel to and Centers to maximize maritime domain awareness, from the area on a case-by-case basis. command and control, and lethality.” Cmdr. Annie Gilson gives her remarks after Government civilians, contractors and family Assuming command of TOCRON 11 marks the assuming command of TOCRON-11 while members are strongly encouraged to follow the first commanding officer position in her 17-year Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing guidelines to protect service personnel from the career. She wears the command pin, established Eleven Capt. Matthew Pottenburgh looks on, at disease. in 1960 to recognize the responsibilities placed on NAS Jacksonville, June 17. For Navy Region Southeast commands in HP- those officers of the Navy who are in command. CON Charlie which includes Naval Air Station “We are committed to the success and Reconnaissance Wings in Florida and Washington Jacksonville, the following guidelines are in place: wholeness of the entire P-8A fleet and aim to State, composed of 14 Patrol and Reconnaissance * Maintain a physical distance of at least six feet unite MPRF against any and all adversaries by squadrons, one Fleet Replacement Squadron and from others. Wear cloth face coverings if unable to expanding situational awareness throughout the more than 45 subordinate commands. maintain this distance. globe,” said Gilson. Patrol and Reconnaissance Wings serve * Do not gather in groups of over 10 people. CPRW-11 squadrons include Patrol Squadrons as the Navy’s premier provider for airborne * Limit travel to/from your residence/work with (VP) 5, VP-8, VP-10, VP-16, VP-26, VP-45, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, stops only for essential business. VP-62, Unmanned Patrol Squadron (VUP) 19, and maritime intelligence, surveillance, and and TOCRON-11. There are two Patrol and reconnaissance operations. See Restrictions, Page 9

ó Sustain • Enable • Support ó Jacksonville Sailor lost on USS Oklahoma 78 years ago, identified By Kaylee LaRocque buried. I’m hoping that his remains can stay at NAS Jax Public Affairs Officer there.” For Odasz, giving the Flanagan family It’s been 78 years since Seaman Second closure and confirmation that their Sailor was Class James Monroe Flanagan, a 22-year-old indeed buried in the cemetery was quite an Sailor from Northeast Florida, was lost aboard honor. the USS Oklahoma (BB 37) in Pearl Harbor, “When I received the telephone call from the Hawaii. Commander, Navy Region Southeast CACO His family always assumed he was buried in and the case was explained, I was immediately the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific intrigued and honored to be tasked in locating (NMCP), known as the “Punchbowl” in a grave the only known primary next of kin and for “unknowns.” This was recently confirmed assisting the family,” said Odasz. after the grave was exhumed and DNA testing “I am just amazed that for 78 years, Seaman verified his remains. James Monroe Flanagan’s remains were Flanagan was born in Lumber City, Georgia marked ‘unknown’ and finally identified. It is on Nov. 6, 1919 to James and Susan Flanagan. a true testament that we, as in the Navy, do He joined the Navy in Jacksonville, Florida. not forget nor leave anyone behind whether Courtesy Photos On Dec. 7, 1941, he was working in the it’s a POW, MIA, or KIA,” said Odasz. “It Seaman Second Class James Flanagan during engine room aboard USS Oklahoma when was a true honor and pleasure sitting down a visit to his home in Northeast Florida shortly before he was killed in action aboard the USS the ship was attacked by Japanese forces with Seaman Flanagan’s younger brother and Oklahoma on Dec. 7, 1941 in Pearl Harbor. The battleship suffered multiple torpedo hits, having a conversation about his brother and causing it to capsize, killing 429 Sailors and experiences. My late grandfather was a World Marines. War II veteran and throughout my career, In the days, months, and years following the I’ve always held a unique interest in learning attack, some remains of the men lost aboard from and have the upmost respect for this the Oklahoma were recovered. Ultimately, 35 generation of true patriotic Americans!” were identified and the unidentified remains Permission to exhume the graves of the USS were buried at the Punchbowl. Oklahoma “Unknowns” at the cemetery was Flanagan was one of eight children. His only granted on April 14, 2015 in a memorandum surviving brother is Joe Flanagan, 86, who still from Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert lives in Jacksonville. He was recently notified Work because of recent advances in forensic his brother’s remains were identified by techniques. From June through November MACS Jean-Paul Odasz, a casualty assistance 2015, Defense POW/MIA Accounting calls officer (CACO) at Naval Air Station Agency personnel, in cooperation with Jacksonville. cemetery officials, exhumed all remaining “I was a little boy when we got the word that caskets associated with the USS Oklahoma my brother was dead. I only saw him a few at the NMCP and transferred the remains to times when he came home,” said Joe Flanagan. the laboratories at Joint Base Pearl Harbor- “We had heard about Pearl Harbor and our Hickam, Hawaii, and Offutt Air Force Base, family was notified that he was missing and Nebraska. believed to be dead.” Flanagan’s remains were identified through Seaman Second Class James Flanagan is listed “I was stationed at Hickam Air Force Base the efforts of the Secretary of Defense, second from the bottom in the first row on a in Hawaii when I was in the Air Force in Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, plaque recognizing Sailors and Marines lost aboard USS Oklahoma (BB 37) when the 1954 and have visited the gravesite,” said Joe and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Flanagan. I’ve seen the marker where he was Laboratory.

The Jax Air News is a bi-weekly digital publication for members of the military Commanding Officer Public Affairs Officer services. Contents of the Jax Air News do not necessarily reflect the official views Capt. Brian Weiss Kaylee LaRocque of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Executive Officer Public Affairs Specialist Department of Defense or Department of the Capt. Jeff Hill Julie M. Lucas Navy. Command Editor The deadline for all story and photo Master Chief MC2(SW/IW) submissions is close of business the Friday Nick A. Grim CMDCM(AW/SW) before publication. Questions or comments can be directed Dylan Inger Staff Writer MM2 Symonne Patrick to the editor at (904) 542-3531 or email [email protected]. commanding officer,” said Erler. Lyon assumes command VP-8 conducts of the Fighting Tigers as the squadron prepares for their next deployment in the fall. A native change of of Hesperia, California, Lyon became the 72nd commanding officer of VP-8. Lyon remarked, command “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Cmdr. By Lt. j.g. Gabriel Pramik Erler’s executive officer over From VP-8 Public Affairs the past year. I am forever grateful for his leadership and Cmdr. Rodney Erler transferred command of mentorship. I look forward Patrol Squadron (VP) 8 to Cmdr. Jeremy Lyon to serving the Fighting Tiger during a Change of Command ceremony June family as the commanding 12 at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville. officer and leading this group A native of Salem, Oregon, Erler led the of remarkable Sailors.” Cmdr. “Fighting Tigers” through a demanding multi- Thomas Doran, has assumed the site deployment conducting 3,500 mishap-free role as executive officer. operational hours spanning 24 detachments VP-8 reports to Commander, and encompassing the Atlantic, Indian, and Patrol and Reconnaissance Pacific Oceans. Wing Eleven, aboard NAS “Serving the amazing men and women of Jacksonville. VP-8 is comprised VP-8 has been an incredible honor. While of 283 men and women who the Fighting Tigers have a long history of employ the P-8A Poseidon. The Photo by MC1 Jerome Johnson superior performance, I am most proud of the Poseidon is the Navy’s primary Cmdr. Rodney Erler, left, transfers command of Patrol resiliency, professionalism, and teamwork that provider of long-range airborne Squadron (VP) 8 to Cmdr. Jeremy Lyon, during a change of these men and women displayed. This was anti-submarine warfare, anti- command ceremony at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, June in no small part a result of Executive Officer surface warfare, and maritime 12. VP-8 is currently conducting its Fleet Readiness Training Lyon’s guidance, and he will undoubtedly intelligence, surveillance, and Plan in preparation for their upcoming deployment. guide the Fighting Tigers to new heights as the reconnaissance forces. Nickell led the “Pelicans” during a successful and fast-paced Fleet Response Training Plan and led the charge during an innovative and forward-leaning U.S. 7th Fleet deployment. “Since my first tour, VP 45 has a reputation of operational excellence, so when assigned to lead the Pelicans, my eagerness to check in was second only to my excitement to lead these winged warriors over two phenomenally successful Indo-Pacific deployments,” he said. Under his leadership, the Pelicans flew nearly 5,000 flight hours during more than 800 sorties in support of tasking from Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven and Commander, Task Force 72. When reflecting on the mission success, Nickell said, “Our success was made possible by both the dedicated service of our Sailors, whose passion and energy to serve is relentless, and the sacrifices of our families, who maintained the homefront, enabling us to conduct our missions day in and day out. I believe the true measure, the absolute test, of a team’s greatness Photo by MCSN Thomas A. Higgins is how well they confront hardship. There are only a handful of squadrons Cmdr. Seth Eisenmenger, executive officer for Patrol Squadron (VP) 45, that have faced the scope and magnitude COVID presented with absolute left, holds a phone with a video-link to Cmdr. Paul Nickell, the previous professionalism and class. These Pelicans have set for me the example by commanding officer of VP-45, as Cmdr. Charles Larwood III assumes which I strive to meet every day – VP-45 has made me better.” command as the new commanding officer of VP-45 at a change of Larwood is a native of Roswell, Georgia and received his commission from command ceremony in the ceremonial hangar bay at Naval Air Station the United States Naval Academy in 2004. He earned his Naval Aviator Jacksonville, June 11. wings in December 2006 before joining the Pelicans in September 2007 for his first sea tour. Prior to checking in as the VP-45 executive officer in May 2019, Larwood served as a test pilot at VX-20, department head for VP-8 and Larwood takes the then P-8A government flight test director at VX-20. “Our next year will be spent building on our successes during this most recent deployment,” said Larwood. “I'm greatly humbled by the responsibility I have as commanding officer to ensure VP-45 is trained and helm of VP-45 equipped to perform our mission as well as lead our nation's most treasured assets, her Sailors, in standing the watch. Seeing first-hand our Sailors From VP-45 Public Affairs proactively respond to the COVID pandemic with resiliency and toughness during an unprecedented eight-month deployment has confirmed my belief Cmdr. Charles Larwood III assumed command of Patrol Squadron (VP) that America's Sailors are the best in the world, and there are no finer 45 from Cmdr. Paul Nickell during a change of command ceremony at NAS Sailors serving than ours in VP-45.” Jacksonville, June 11. The ceremony was attended by a virtual audience. HSM-72 returns to Photo by MC2 (SW/IW) Nick A. Grim NAS Jax Lt. Cmdr. David Morgan embraces his daughter Pippa, 2, after returning from a nine-month deployment with Photo by MM2 Symonne D. Patrick HSM-72, at NAS Jacksonville, June 5. AWR1 Oliver Martin embraces his children Franco, 7, and Niya, 11, after returning from a nine- month deployment with Helicopter Maritime Strike (HSM) 72, at NAS Jax, June 5. HSM-72 was deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

Photo by MC2 (SW/IW) Nick A. Grim Photo by MM2 Symonne D. Patrick AE2 Alyson Butler reunites with her wife Crystal and Sailors disembark a MH-60R helicopter and unload baggage and gear upon returning from their dog Mattie after returning from a nine-month a nine-month deployment with HSM-72, at NAS Jax, June 5. deployment with HSM 72, at NAS Jax, June 5. NAS Jax Community Rec hosts Summer Reading Program pick-up event Photos by MC2 (SW/IW) Nick A. Grim

Nicholas Cason, right, a volunteer for Naval Air Station Jacksonville Participating guests line up in their cars during a Summer Reading Community Recreation Department, hands boxes of cookies to Bonnie Program Craft, Book, and Cookies drive-by pick-up event in the Auto Norris, left, during a Summer Reading Program Craft, Book, and Skills Center, June 8. Cookies pick-up event in the Auto Skills Center, June 8. White takes command of VP-10 “Red Lancers” From VP-10 Public Affairs

Cmdr. William White relieved Cmdr. Patrick Gegg, becoming the 84th commanding officer of the Patrol Squadron (VP) 10 “Red Lancers” during a change of command and retirement ceremony at Hangar 511 aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, June 19. Capt. Matthew Pottenburgh, commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven, presided over the change of command ceremony. This ceremony marked the conclusion of a successful tour for Gegg. He recently led VP-10 Capt. Mike Monreal Capt. Jorge Cuadros through a challenging deployment to the 5th and 7th fleet areas of responsibility. During his time as commanding officer, Gegg NAVFAC SE Change of Command set for July 9 inspired VP-10 to reach high levels of operational From NAVFAC SE Public Affairs summer in Texas. excellence while conducting anti-submarine war- NAVFAC Southeast is home to approximately fare, anti-surface warfare, and intelligence, recon- Capt. Jorge Cuadros will relieve Capt. Mike 2,100 civilian and 120 military personnel who naissance, and surveillance missions in support of Monreal as commanding officer, Naval Facilities provide facilities support services and military Commander 5th and 7th Fleet objectives. Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southeast and construction oversight throughout the southeast re- White joined VP-10 as the executive officer in Navy Region Southeast Regional Engineer at a gion at its Public Works Departments and Resident May 2019. His other tours include VP-16, VP-30, virtual change of command ceremony, July 9, at Officer in Charge of Construction offices located and VP-9 where he qualified patrol plane mission Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville. at military bases as far west as Corpus Christi, commander, instructor tactical coordinator, fleet Cuadros is coming to NAVFAC Southeast from Texas; east to Charleston, South Carolina and NATOPS evaluator and fleet instructor under train- his last tour as the NAVFAC Europe Africa Cen- south to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. NAVFAC South- ing instructor. tral executive officer in Naples, Italy. east Headquarters is located at NAS Jacksonville, White takes command of VP-10 as they prepare Monreal will be honored for his service to the Florida. to undergo a rigorous home cycle in preparation command and recognized for his accomplishments The Change of Command ceremony can be for future deployments. made during the past two years. A retirement viewed on the command’s Facebook page July 9 VP-10 welcomes Cmdr. John Houston as the ceremony to celebrate his 28 years of dedicated at 9 a.m. at https://www.facebook.com/NAVFAC- squadron's new executive officer. service to the U.S. Navy will be held later this Southeast. VP-26 holds international change of command

From VP-26 Public Affairs

The “Tridents” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 held a change of command ceremony, May 31. The ceremony occurred simultaneously from the deployment sites in El Salvador and Japan culminating in a long-range aerial change of command. Cmdr. Eric Andrews, from Lincoln, Nebraska, was relieved by Cmdr. Michael Steffens, from Virginia Beach, Virginia, as commanding officer of VP-26. Steffens became the 75th commanding officer of VP-26. Andrews assumed command in 2019 after serving as the squadron’s executive officer. As commanding officer of VP-26, Andrews led “Team Trident” through an extensive fleet readiness training plan in preparation for their current deployment to the U.S. 4th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. In addition to preparing for deployment Cmdr. Eric Andrews Cmdr. Michael Steffans under his leadership during the home cycle, VP-26 was instrumental in defending strategic U.S. interests Pacific Fleet, before taking over as executive officer of VP-26. and supporting combatant commander priorities. Andrews will report to As commanding officer of VP-26, he is leading the Tridents on their Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group staff in Norfolk, Virginia as deployment to the U.S. 4th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. The in June 2020. squadron reports to Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Wing Eleven Steffens previously served as the assistant Washington, DC placement at NAS Jacksonville, which serves as the Navy’s premier provider for officer at the Bureau of Naval Personnel in Millington, Tennessee, airborne Anti-Submarine Warfare, Anti-Surface Warfare, and Maritime maintenance and operations officer for VP-8, and flag aide to Commander, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations. Commissary to celebrate 153 years of service Cmdr. Monica Frey relinquishes command By Tamara Eastman of Defense Logistics DeCA historian Agency Aviation - Jack- sonville to Cmdr. Curtis On July 1, the Defense Commissary Agency will Ceaser during a change celebrate the 153rd anniversary of the commissary of command ceremony benefit, making it the oldest U.S. military resale at Naval Air Station program. Jacksonville, June 15. Over the past 153 years the commissary benefit has evolved considerably. The modern day com- missary benefit dates back to July 1, 1867, when enlisted men began receiving the same shopping Courtesy photo privileges at the subsistence stores that had been available to officers since 1825. In 1867 most DLA Aviation Jacksonville gets new leader commissary sales stores were set up in abandoned By Leon Moore to her, personally and professionally. warehouses. Over time these subsistence stores DLA Aviation Public Affairs “There have been a lot of nice things said about became sales commissaries and sold goods at cost me and accomplishments attributed to me, but in order to provide soldiers with food at reasonable Cmdr. Curtis Ceaser took over as commander, the reality is ‘I’ didn’t really do any of those things. prices. Defense Logistics Agency Aviation - Jacksonville, Thankfully, the employees of DLA Aviation Jack- In 1899 the first overseas commissary opened Florida during a virtual change of command cere- sonville made my tour here an overwhelming in Cuba. Another store opened in China in 1900 mony on Naval Air Station Jacksonville, June 15. success.” and in Panama in 1904. By World War I, the U.S. was operating commissary stores in France. By DLA Aviation Commander Air Force Brig. Gen. Frey said she decided from the moment she took David Sanford officiated the ceremony virtually the time World War II ended, the U.S. was oper- command two years ago, that providing excellent from Washington, D.C., where he is currently on ating commissaries worldwide and have existed support to the warfighter wouldn’t be her only a special assignment as the deputy director of the on every continent except Antarctica in more than focus. COVID-19 Supply Chain Task Force with the Fed- a thousand locations. Today, DeCA continues to She implemented a number of professional de- eral Emergency Management Agency. serve the military and its families at nearly 240 Ceaser comes to DLA Aviation from Navy velopment and training initiatives aimed at mak- stores in 13 countries. Supply Weapon Systems Support in Philadelphia, ing employees more competitive for promotions, Each military branch originally ran their own Pennsylvania, where he served as the director of improving professional knowledge and addressing commissaries until 1990, when Congress and the Acquisition Policy and Contract Systems. He’s also various human resources, leadership and equal Department of Defense decided to consolidate the no stranger to DLA Aviation. He served as aide- employment opportunity topics. individual service commissary systems under one de-camp to then DLA Aviation Commander Air She implemented a number of programs, includ- agency – the Defense Commissary Agency, which Force Brig. Gen. Andrew Busch between 2007 – ing, monthly hail and farewell events and quarterly officially formed on Oct. 1, 1991. 2009. He assumes command from Cmdr. Monica town halls, aimed at fostering teamwork and creat- Today, commissaries offer high-quality commis- Frey, who served as commander since 2018. ing comradery. sary store brands that provide low-cost alternative Because of social distancing guidelines and re- Before taking her seat, she offered a strong en- products for customers and the “Your Everyday Savings! (YES!)” program, which helps stateside strictions due to coronavirus, guests attended the dorsement of Ceaser. customers get extra savings on the hundreds of ceremony via a video streaming platform. “I’m confident you are the perfect leader to con- popular items they tend to buy most. Customers During his remarks, Sanford recognized some tinue the great work we established and also take can also go online and register their Commissary of the accomplishments of the Jacksonville team our performance to the next level. There is clearly under Frey’s leadership, including reducing Rewards Cards for access to digital coupons to no other leader I would willingly hand over the help them save even more on their grocery bill. component material delay unfilled orders by 38 reins to than you,” Frey said. percent, reducing unfilled orders by 48 percent, Frey’s next assignment is taking her to Yokosuka, reducing material delay requisitions by 50 percent Japan where she will serve as the supply officer and attaining an average Gross Domestic Product onboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). Material Availability rate of 92.3 percent. As Ceaser took the podium, he let it be known “The success you experienced has everything to he is 100 percent up to the task of leading the DLA do with the masterful leadership of Commander Frey, but she will be the first to tell you successes Aviation Jacksonville team. are a direct reflection of your hard work and dedi- “2020 has proven to be a challenging year, filled cation,” Sanford said. with unimaginable obstacles and unforeseen During the virtual ceremony, Frey was awarded changes. Today’s virtual ceremony serves as proof the Defense Meritorious Service Medal for her that change is inevitable. However, with change, many achievements. comes opportunity. An opportunity to challenge After the time-honored tradition of the passing the previously held norm, the opportunity to seek of the DLA command flag from Frey to Ceaser, out new solutions, but more importantly, an op- Frey expressed what her time in Jacksonville meant portunity to deliver excellence,” he said. Photos by Jacob Sippel Capt. David Barrows assumes his duties as Expeditionary Medical Facility Capt. Kevin Brown, Expeditionary Medical Facility (EMF) - M (EMF) - M commanding officer as he salutes Capt. Matthew Case, Naval commanding officer, is relieved by Capt. Matthew Case, Naval Hospital Jacksonville's commander and Navy Medicine Readiness & Train- Hospital Jacksonville’s commander and Navy Medicine Readi- ing Command (MNRTC) Jacksonville's commanding officer, during an ness & Training Command Jacksonville’s commanding officer, EMF-M change of charge ceremony on June 25. EMF-M consists of more during an EMF-M change of charge ceremony on June 25. Brown than 400 sailors, including medical staff and support personnel. Barrows also led EMF-M during its deployments this year in the nation’s fight serves as executive officer of NH Jacksonville & NMRTC Jacksonville. against the COVID-19 pandemic. As executive officer of NH Jack- sonville, Brown facilitated the daily safety brief, to start each day with a focus on patient safety. Expeditionary Medical Facility - M holds change of charge By Naval Hospital Jacksonville Fleet Forces. commander and NMRTC Jack- Public Affairs Brown led EMF-M during sonville commanding officer, its deployments this year in presented Brown with the Capt. Kevin Brown turned the nation’s fight against the Meritorious Service Medal on over leadership of Expeditionary COVID-19 pandemic. Staff behalf of Rear Adm. Anne Swap, Medical Facility (EMF) - M to deployed to sites including commander, Naval Medical Capt. David Barrows, during a Baton Rouge and New Orleans, Forces Atlantic, for outstanding change of charge ceremony on Louisiana; New York (aboard meritorious service while serv- June 25 at Naval Hospital Jack- USNS Comfort); Dallas, Texas; ing as executive officer. sonville. and Stamford, Connecticut, to Brown’s next assignment will Due to the COVID-19 pan- provide relief to area hospitals be as fleet surgeon for U.S. Fleet demic, the ceremony included strained by the COVID-19 pan- Courtesy photo face coverings, social distancing, demic. The EMF coordinates Forces. and a limited number of on-site closely with local, state, and Barrows, a native of Los An- participants. federal authorities. geles, California and a Medical Naval Hospital Jacksonville Brown served as EMF-M’s Brown was awarded the Loui- Corps officer, is board certified Sailors recognized by First Coast commanding officer, as well siana Legion of Merit medal, for in anesthesiology, pain manage- as executive officer for Naval EMF-M’s work in that state. ment, and addiction medicine. No More Homeless Pets Hospital Jacksonville and Navy “The deployments in sup- Most recently, he served as direc- Medicine Readiness & Training port of the nation’s COVID-19 tor of Navy Medicine’s Trauma Our most recent VyStar Volunteers of the Command Jacksonville. response were special for us,” Strategy Management Office Month are a group of Sailors from Naval Hospital EMF-M consists of more than said Brown. “EMF personnel and Clinical Communities. Past Jacksonville. 400 sailors, including medical volunteer to leave the security assignments also include: Walter We recently received a large shipment of pet staff and support personnel. of home in times of crisis, and Reed National Military Medical food from our partners at Amazon returns. With EMFs are staffed and sourced by go into harm’s way to save lives. Center, Naval Medical Center just two days’ notice, Naval Hospital Jackson- Navy Medicine personnel from And that’s what we did.” Camp Lejeune, and battalion ville sent 30 hardworking members of the United Navy Medicine Readiness & As executive officer for NH surgeon for 2nd Assault Am- States Navy to assist during their free time. Training Commands (NMRTCs) Jacksonville and NMRTC Jack- phibian Battalion. On a hot day in June, they helped us to safe- at military treatment facilities sonville, Brown facilitated the “I look forward to maintain- ly store over 10 tons of pet food and cat litter. across the country. The bulk of commands’ daily safety brief. Because of their help, we are able to serve pet ing EMF-M’s high standards of EMF-M’s personnel come from This starts each day with a focus parents in need and continue to spread the word readiness and reliability,” said NMRTC Jacksonville and Naval on patient safety. Leaders and about our free spay/neuter services through food Hospital Jacksonville. staff (from the commands’ six Barrows. In addition to EMF-M pantries in our area. Under Brown’s leadership, locations) meet in person and by commanding officer, he has In previous years, Sailors from Naval Air EMF-M earned its Tier 1 read- phone to identify potential risks assumed the role of executive Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport and iness capability certification in early, so they can be acted on officer for Naval Hospital Jack- Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay have assisted February 2019. This certifies its promptly. sonville and Navy Medicine with mega-adoption, pet food bank, and much ability to provide combat oper- At the ceremony, Capt. Mat- Readiness & Training Command more. ations medical support to U.S. thew Case, NH Jacksonville Jacksonville. Dobson, the Defense Commissary Scholarships for Agency’s scholarships program liaison. Instead, scholarship winners were notified by mail. military children Scholarship applicants submit their official transcript indicating a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or marks 20 years above on a 4.0 scale for high school applicants, or indicating a cumulative By Mike Perron minimum GPA of 2.5 or above on a DeCA Public Affairs Specialist 4.0 scale for students already enrolled in college; and an essay of 500 words Though the 2019-2020 school year was disrupted or less, no longer than two pages. by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Scholarships “In this, the 20th anniversary year for Military Children program was still able to of the scholarship program, we award 500 students from military families a $2,000 were pleased once again with the scholarship grant for the upcoming 2020-2021 overall quality of the applicants,” said school year. Weiskopf. “We received a total of 4,851 The program, created in 2001, recognizes the applications from 225 commissaries.” contributions of military families to the readiness of Eligibility is determined using the fighting force and celebrates the commissaries’ the Defense Enrollment Eligibility role in enhancing the military’s quality of life. It’s Reporting System database. Applicants administered by the Fisher House Foundation, a must ensure that they, as well as their nonprofit organization that helps service members sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS and their families. database and have a current military The Foundation’s recent efforts to modernize the dependent ID card. The applicant entry process contributed to the successful outcome must also be planning to attend or in the face of social distancing and other restrictions already be attending an accredited in place this year. “This was the second year that college or university, full time, in scholarship search engine to the site, tailored the entire application process was done online,” the fall of 2020 or be enrolled in a program of to military families, called “Scholarships for said Jim Weiskopf, Fisher House Foundation vice studies designed to transfer directly into a four- Service.” It’s free, easy to use, and available on president. “We experienced a server problem on the year program. Applicants who are awarded a mobile devices or computers at militaryscholar.org. final day for submissions that prevented applicants full scholarship to attend a college or university “The window to apply for the 2021-2022 Fisher from submitting their completed applications, but or receive an appointment to one of the military House Scholarships for Military Children should since we had their email addresses, we were able to academies or affiliated preparatory schools are not open in December and close in February, but the communicate with the entire applicant pool and eligible to receive funds from this program. A full exact dates have not been determined yet,” said extend the submission deadline by two days, so no scholarship is usually defined as one that provides Dobson. “Be sure to check the scholarship page in one was penalized for something not their fault.” for payment of tuition, books, lab fees and other mid-December for the opening of the program.” The stores where ceremonies would normally be expenses. Fisher House Foundation is ranked a Four Star held to honor scholarship awardees had to adapt to All rules and requirements for the program, as well Charity by Charity Navigator. No government COVID-19 restrictions as well. “While we would as links to frequently asked questions are available funds are used to support the Scholarships for normally hold a ceremony at the commissary, at the Scholarships for Military Children website, as Military Children Program. Commissary vendors, during these uncertain times with social distancing, is the full list of this year’s winners. manufacturers, brokers, suppliers and the general ceremonies could not be held this year,” said Marye Fisher House also recently added a custom public donate money to fund the program.

For more information, please call: 542-5745 Nine graduate from NAVFAC Southeast’s Leadership Development Program From NAVFAC SE Public Affairs dan Less, and Patricia O’Neil from es. “The LDP gave me the opportuni- NAVFAC Southeast Headquarters ty for introspection, getting feedback Naval Facilities Engineering Com- in Jacksonville, and Sabrina Wil- from others, and determining how I mand (NAVFAC) Southeast Com- liams-Hopkins from Public Works can challenge myself to be better,” manding Officer Capt. Mike Monreal Department (PWD) Pensacola. said NAVFAC Southeast Contracting virtually recognized nine employees, Due to restrictions brought on Senior Field Liaison John Bazyle- June 25, for graduating from the by the Coronavirus pandemic, the wicz. “LDP also gave me the oppor- NAVFAC Leadership Development command followed proper physical tunity to consider the current macro Program (LDP). distancing guidelines by conducting environment and the strategic impor- The command offers two programs the ceremony virtually through Mic- tance of our work at NAVFAC.” with the purpose of training employ- rosoft Teams. NAVFAC created the LDP to ees to be effective leaders: Aspiring “I regret that COVID-19 prevented provide robust developmental op- Photo by Jeffrey Hamlin Leadership Development Program us from being able to celebrate the portunities for its future civilian Naval Facilities Engineering (ALDP) and Leadership Develop- accomplishments of each graduate senior leaders. The program provides Command (NAVFAC) Southeast ment Program (LDP). Commanding Officer Capt. Mike together, but you have demonstrat- leadership development through “These programs are vital to NAV- Monreal speaks to nine graduates ed dedication, agility and resilience progressive learning opportunities FAC’s mission to recruit, develop, from the NAVFAC Leadership as you completed this demanding consisting of formal education and and retain highly qualified and Development Program during a program,” said NAVFAC Southeast training, rotational assignments, and motivated personnel,” said NAVFAC virtual ceremony, June 25. Commanding Officer Capt. Mike other developmental activities. Southeast Total Force Supervisor Dr. Monreal. “You should be justly “My advice to the next class is to Diane Shider. “Having centralized The nine graduates who participat- proud of your accomplishments and trust the process,” said PWD Pen- leadership development programs, ed in the two-year LDP program are I challenge you to use what you have sacola Installation Energy Manager the command is able to directly located across the command’s area learned to better yourself and our Sabrina Williams-Hopkins. “This develop upcoming leaders within of responsibility. The graduates in- command.” program is very effective and ben- NAVFAC as well as retain employ- clude Kyle Acton, John Bazylewicz, Many of the graduates had good eficial if you are willing to learn ees through creating bonds of loyalty Michael Cassidy, David Chung, Phil- things to say about the LDP program outside your area of common knowl- to our organization.” ip Dixon, Renee Dudgeon, Bren- and its benefits, despite the challeng- edge.”

ties are used and if a minimum of six feet physical - Laundry services Restrictions - From Page 1 distancing cannot be maintained - In-residence social gatherings that include more - Non-essential commercial retail establishments than 10 guests * Service members are prohibited from visiting, and shopping malls For an installation or command that is in HP- patronizing, or engaging in the following off-in- * For use of on-installation services, observe CON Bravo, it is imperative that personnel con- stallation specific facilities, services or activities. guidance provided by regional and installation tinue to practice physical distancing of six feet and - Recreational swimming pools, gyms, fitness commanders. wear face coverings to the maximum extent practi- facilities, exercise classes, saunas, spas, and salons - Tattoo/body art/piercing parlors Additionally, all service members, government cal when social distancing cannot be maintained. - Barber shops, hair or nail salons and massage civilians, contractors, and family members are en- It is also vital that personnel maintain a proper parlors couraged to minimize unnecessary, in-person use awareness of COVID-19 mitigation measures, - Cinemas/theaters of the following services and activities: precautions or guidance provided by the chain of - Participation in team/organized sports - Use of mass transit command and civil authorities. - Dine-in restaurants (take-out is authorized), - Auto repair, maintenance and annual inspection We know these measures are tough. We know bars, nightclubs, casinos, conferences, sporting - Curb-side and drive through services that after several months of stay at home orders events, concerts, public celebrations, parades, - In-home domestic services and quarantine, people are ready to get out and public beaches, amusement parks or other events - Drive-in spiritual services enjoy life again. We aren’t there yet. There are still designed to promote large gatherings, to include - Banking services dangers from the virus and we need everyone to indoor religious services - Pet care and veterinary services put our service – and our shipmates – first, for just - Outdoor recreation where common use facili- - Post office a little while longer.

VP-8 commanding officer takes farewell flight Photo by MC1 Jerome Johnson Cmdr. Rodney Erler, former commanding officer for Patrol Squadron (VP) 8, poses with family following his ceremonial farewell flight at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, June 10. While in-flight, Erler performed a reenlistment for AWO2 Jason Henderson. “This was a good opportunity to reflect on the past 25 years flying naval aircraft. I have been privileged to have such a rewarding career doing something that I love. I also enjoyed having the honor to participate in the reenlistment of one of our junior Sailors during the flight. It was an awesome experience,” said Erler. Erler assumed command of VP-8 in May 2019 and led the Fighting Tigers through a demanding multi-site deployment conducting 3,500 mishap- free operational hours which spanned 24 detachments and encompassed both 4th and 7th Fleets. He has accrued over 5,330 flight hours in numerous military aircraft, primarily the P-3C Orion and P-8A Poseidon. “To the Tiger Team, it has been an absolute honor and the highlight of my career to serve as your commanding officer. You are truly an amazing group that breeds excellence every day. Thank you again for all of your hard work,” said Erler. Naval Hospital Jacksonville Gradu- ates Family Medicine physicians

From Naval Hospital Jacksonville Public care (orthopedics and sports Affairs medicine), ophthalmology, inpatient medicine, Naval Hospital Jacksonville’s award-winning behavioral health, general Family Medicine Residency Program, now in its surgery, military medicine, 49th year of continuous accreditation, graduated obstetrics, gynecology, and 25 physicians (13 interns and 12 residents) at a dermatology. ceremony on June 26 at the hospital. To become board certified Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ceremony by the American Board of included face coverings, social distancing, and a Family Medicine (ABFM), limited number of participants on-site at any given physicians must be licensed time. and successfully complete Photos by Jacob Sippel Each year’s graduation symbolizes the three years of residency The Navy’s newest physicians stand at attention during a graduation completion of training for one group of physicians, training in a program ceremony for Naval Hospital Jacksonville’s Family Medicine Resi- and the kick-off to the program’s new academic (like NH Jacksonville’s) dency Program, June 26 at the hospital. The program, now in its 49th year for 39 residents and interns. that’s accredited by the year of continuous accreditation, graduated 25 physicians. NH Jack- All program participants are physicians who Accreditation Council sonville’s Family Medicine Residency Program consistently earns the have completed medical school. By the end of the for Graduate Medical top award for scholarly activity from the Uniformed Services Acade- first year, each has completed training rotations in Education. Additionally, my of Family Physicians. pediatrics, emergency medicine, musculoskeletal physicians must meet all Marine Corps, and joint settings world-wide, board requirements and pass the ABFM board caring for active duty, families, and retirees. certification exam. NH Jacksonville’s Family Medicine Residency “As highly skilled family medicine docs, these Program earned the top award for scholarly men and women will be supporting the medical activity in 2014, 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2019 from needs of service members and their families all the Uniformed Services Academy of Family over the world — on, above, and below the sea, Physicians, and 2013 Excellence in Teaching and in combat zones,” said Lt. Cmdr. Dustin Award and 2011 Family Medicine Clinical Site Smith, NH Jacksonville’s acting family medicine residency program director. “Our program’s of the Year Award from the Uniformed Services success is a result of the dedicated efforts of our University of the Health Sciences. The graduating outstanding faculty, support staff, command physicians have consistently earned a 100 percent leadership, and the residents themselves.” board certification pass rate. Upon completion of the first year of study, some Naval Hospital Jacksonville and Navy Medicine residents choose to go directly into the fleet to Readiness & Training Command Jacksonville serve as general medical officers, flight surgeons, deliver quality health care, in an integrated system or undersea medical officers. Those who stay of readiness and health. NH Jacksonville (and continue for two additional years of training in its five branch health clinics) serves 163,000 key areas of family medicine such as obstetrics, active-duty, family members, and retired service Capt. Matthew Case, Naval Hospital Jackson- pediatrics, internal medicine, sports medicine, members, including 75,000 patients who are ville commander and Navy Medicine Readiness neurology, mental health, trauma, and intensive enrolled with a primary care manager. NMRTC & Training Command Jacksonville command- care. After completing residency and passing the Jacksonville (and its five units) ensures warfighters’ ing officer, speaks at the Family Medicine Resi- national ABFM exam, the residents become board medical readiness to deploy and clinicians’ dency Program graduation, June 26. certified family medicine physicians. They’re readiness to save lives. To find out more, visit assigned as staff at Defense Health Agency, Navy, www.tricare.mil/MTF/jacksonville. jacksonvillenavy.beanstack.org/ For questions, busy & entertained while you are home. Explore call (904) 542-3227. fitness activities & resources, daily surprise videos from musicians, comedians, magicians & other Dine on the Go entertainers, recipes in the cooking section, or Order to go meals from Mulligan’s between 6:30 am - 5:15 p.m. every day. Download the Dine travel the world virtually through online content on the Go Jacksonville app or visit https://www. from museums, theme parks, & historic sites. Visit dineonthegojacksonville.com/ to place your order. https://www.navymwr.org/navy-mwr-at-home/ to discover more. Navy MWR ESPORTS

NAS Jax Summer Reading Program Be part of the upcoming Navy MWR ESPORTS Through Aug. 7 Tournaments! Top winners receive gift cards. Navy MWR Digital Library Dig Deeper: Read, Investigate, Discover! Cheer on Sailors & friends from around the world Offers thousands of free resources, including Register and log your minutes of reading online as they compete in Navy MWR ESPORTS events! printable activity sheets, feature films, music, or via the Beanstack Tracker App to win prizes Visit https://www.navymwr.org/programs/esports hobbies & crafts, concerts, e-books, audio books, throughout the summer. Additional activities to learn more. will include curbside pick-up of activity kits and Navy MWR at Home documentaries, ancestry records, repair manuals & prize giveaways, plus virtual story time with Stay active. Stay informed. Stay connected. Navy so much more! Open 24/7/365. Visit https://www. special guest readers! Register now at https:// MWR compiled a list of resources to help keep you navymwrdigitallibrary.org to register.