NAPS Welcomes Parents & Friends
October 12, 2017 Edition
SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST
DRONES ON DEWEY FIELD
NWC OFFERS LECTURE FOR SPOUSES
FLU VACCINE AVAILABLE AT NHCNE
Inside this issue: It was obvious to all in attendance that the NAPS Around the Station 1-4 Class of 2018 has come a Meat & Potatoes of Life 5 long way in the 73 days since they reported to Fleet & Family Support 6-7 Newport to form the NAPS Battalion. The assembled Morale, Welfare & Rec. 8 families and friends were At the Clinic 9 treated to a demonstration of military precision during the Pass in Review ceremony held last Friday on Now Hear This 10-11 Nimitz Field kicking off Family Weekend. The Pass in Review is an old military tradition originating when soldiers would march in formation before their leader Traffic & Commuting 12 and offer a salute to him or her. The purpose of this tradition was to allow a King Hot Jobs 13 to inspect the readiness of his army. Over time passing in review has found a new purpose. Today the Pass in Review is a way for the military to show respect for Around the Island 14 its civilian and military leadership. Last Friday the NAPS Battalion proudly dis- Around the Fleet 15-16 played their new military prowess to Rear Admiral Michael Bernacchi, Com- mander, Naval Service Training Command and a NAPS Class of 2018 parent Veteran News 17-18 who was the reviewing officer, Captain Cory Howes, Commanding Officer, NAPS and, most importantly, to their families and friends. Following the Pass In Review the midshipman candidates proudly showed their families around the NAPS campus and introduced them to NAPS staff and faculty. Much anticipated liberty for the long weekend commenced after the open house! (photo and expanded cutline by Mark Donohue, NAPS—additional photo page 4)
1 AROUND THE STATION NWC hosts evening lecture for spouses, significant others
Tim Shultz, associate dean of academics, U.S. Naval War College’s (NWC) Electives and Research Department, gives a presentation titled, “Future Warfighting” during an evening lecture held at NWC. The lec- ture was designed to help spouses and significant others of NWC students, staff and fac- ulty understand the college’s curriculum and accompanying subject matter that the student body will be exposed to during the academic year. (photo by MC2 Jess Lewis/released)
By MC2 Jess Lewis, NWC, Public Affairs professor, NWC’s Joint Military Operations Department More than 75 people attended the spouses and signifi- gave a presentation titled, “Issues in National Security cant others evening lecture held at U.S. Naval War Col- Lecture Series” and also announced the topics and pre- lege (NWC) on Oct. 4. senters for the upcoming 2018 “Issues in National Secu- The event was held to give spouses and significant rity” spouse lecture series that will be held at NWC be- others the opportunity to learn a little bit about what ginning in January. their students will be studying during their time spent at NWC is a one-year resident program that graduates NWC. about 600 resident students and about 1,000 distance Opening remarks were provided by Rear Adm. Jef- learning students each year. Its missions include educat- frey A. Harley, president, NWC. John Jackson, a NWC ing and developing leaders, helping define the future of professor, then gave a brief history of the college. Four the Navy, supporting combat readiness, and strengthen- speakers provided some information on their areas of ing maritime partnerships. Students earn Joint Profes- expertise that some students will study during their time sional Military Education (JPME) credit and either a spent at NWC. John H. Maurer, professor, NWC’s diploma or a master’s degree in National Security and Strategy and Policy Department, spoke about Alfred Strategic Studies or Defense and Strategic Studies. Es- Thayer Mahan’s strategic thoughts on naval warfare and tablished in 1884, U.S. Naval War College is the oldest maritime strategy. Mark Turner, retired Navy captain, institution of its kind in the world. More than 50,000 spoke about the importance of the international pro- students have graduated since its first class of nine stu- gram. Tim Shultz, associate dean of academics, NWC’s dents in 1885 and about 300 of today’s active duty ad- Electives and Research Department, gave a presentation mirals, generals and senior executive service leaders are titled, “Future Warfighting.” Army Col. Chris Kidd, alumni.
NAVSTA Newport Public Affairs Office Base Condition Line: 841-2211 Office# 841-3538 We are always looking for content to share with our E-Mail: community and welcome emailed .jpg images; png formats [email protected] and word documents—please do not send PDF formatted Capt. Ian L. Johnson, Commanding Officer content. Lisa Rama, Public Affairs Officer Operational and Exercise Impacts are often communicated Ens William Park to the public first using the installation Facebook Page— MC2 Jess Lewis, NWC Public Affairs ’like’ us at: www.facebook.com/NAVSTANewport to stay Follow us on twitter @NAVSTANEWPORTRI informed!
2 AROUND THE STATION Naval War College Professor Returns Home to Lend a Helping Hand to Those U.S. Naval War College (NWC) breaking to see my hometown strug- will continue to professor Walter Berbrick went back gle, but we always find a way to threaten our econo- to his hometown in South Florida come together and bounce back my, our national last week to help communities af- stronger. It's in our blood." security, and our fected by Hurricane Irma. He said he didn’t return to get any future; especially He deployed as a member of the recognition, but feels personally ob- low-lying coastal Disaster Response Team with the ligated to give back to the very com- communities such American Red Cross where he con- munities that gave him so much. as Miami and the South Florida area. ducted community needs assess- "Whether you choose to lend a Addressing climate change starts ments and distributed emergency hand or a sympathetic ear, each of us at home, said Berbrick. relief supplies to disaster victims in has a role to play and something to "We can tackle it by building in- Greater Miami and the Keys. contribute," said Berbrick. "In the frastructure that's as resilient as our South Florida holds a special end, service connects us like nothing people and by helping people under- place in his heart, said Berbrick, else, not only as communities but as stand the impacts of rising seas and who grew up in Miami and lived a nation; and helps us grow closer to stronger storms; and converting that through Hurricane Andrew in 1992. the people we serve." knowledge into practical actions that "I know how it feels to lose every- According to Berbrick, who leads benefit our communities, our Navy, thing and to have to rebuild your life climate security studies at the col- and our nation," said Berbrick. from scratch," he said. "It's heart- lege, rising seas and violent storms
A drone is knocked out of the sky by a new drone capture system, Sky Wall, during a live demonstration event held at U.S. Naval War College (NWC) yesterday. The event was held in support of NWC’s elective course, “Unmanned Systems and Conflict in the 21st Century,” as well as in support of two NWC missions: to support combat readiness and help define the future Navy and its roles and missions. (photo by MC2 Jess Lewis/NWC) **note: privately owned drones should not be flown on/over the installation without prior approval of the NS Newport Commanding Officer.
3 AROUND THE STATION...THROUGH THE MIST
The NAPS Battalion gets in a foggy pre-dawn rehearsal under a full moon on Friday morning, Oct. 6 to ensure they were ready to impress their families and friends at the Pass In Review which would take place later that day. (photo by Mark Donohue, NAPS Public Affairs)
4 THE MEAT & POTATOES OF LIFE Lisa Smith Molinari Football Parents Guilty of Excessive Celebration
Ever since our kids’ peewee soccer days, my hus- There were no bleachers to sit on -- just hoards of band, Francis, and I have loved watching them play leggy teenagers milling about on tarps in a grass field. sports. Despite their average athletic skills, we planned We couldn’t help but notice the absence of foam fingers our entire week around a Friday night football game, a and tacky nylon mesh. The other parents looked like Saturday morning cross country meet, or a Wednesday runners too, wearing trendy, moisture-wicking spandex afternoon tennis match. We wore spirit wear, baked and micro-fleece sportswear. We heard no cowbells or cookies, volunteered, and bellowed chants. air horns – only two-finger golf clapping and the faint Some might label us as doting parents; others might tweet of birds in the distance. We could smell no grilled say we need to get out more. pork products or locker room odors – only fresh air and Regardless, I must admit, there have been times when a hint of cappuccino. our enthusiasm for our children’s com- We never felt more lost and alone. petitions has gotten us into trouble. We heard the crack of a starting pistol, Each sport has its own unwritten and suddenly, our daughter whizzed by rules governing the behavior of specta- us, among the pack. No sooner did the tors, and problems can arise when par- runners pass, than the crowd of parents ents don’t conform to the unique stand- started sprinting through a trail in the ards for each sport. woods. We weren’t sure if there was a For example, our son played high grizzly bear attacking us, or a clearance school football at three different high schools. By the sale at Pottery Barn, but we followed along. time he went off to college, we had mastered football’s The jog led us to our next observation point, where spectator rules. Francis and I breathlessly yelled, flailed and gestured, On Friday nights, we proudly wore our 100% nylon “Hey, that’s our kid! C’mon Sweetie! Make ‘em eat mesh replica jerseys, emblazoned with our son’s num- your dust!” The looks on the other parents’ faces made ber. We never ate before the game, preferring to get din- it clear that our exuberance was not appreciated. ner from the concession stand, where a balanced game After two more sprints to observation points, the race night meal consisted of a hot dog (protein), chips with was over, and we found ourselves two-finger golf clap- nacho cheese (dairy), and ketchup (vegetable). A blue ping with everyone else. All that sprinting left Francis raspberry Sno Kone rounded out the meal (fruit). Once and I famished and in search of the nearest deep-fat fry- seated in the bleachers, we tried to resist aerobic activi- er. But the only food available was granola bars, and ty, other than arm flailing and strolling to the restroom unfortunately, they were for the team. at halftime. On the way home, while waiting in the drive-thru for During the game, we were encouraged to exaggerate a #7-With-Bacon-Go-Large, I realized that we’d learned any feelings of pride, exhilaration, disappointment, or valuable lessons about becoming cross-country parents: anger. Football parents were expected to hoot, holler, First, spectating the sport requires either an all terrain and shout expletives that might otherwise be considered vehicle with GPS navigation, or a personal defibrillator. obnoxious or unkind. Second, until someone starts deep-frying granola, one Some examples included, “Hey, that’s MY kid! should keep a bag of Funions and a six-pack of Woohoo!” yelled while pointing repeatedly at the Mountain Dew in the glove box to combat hunger. player. Or, “Take that you LOSERS!” directed to the opposing team while making rude spanking gestures. Lisa’s syndicated column appears in Or, “Hey Ref -- I’ve seen potatoes with better eyes than military and civilian newspapers including Stars and you!” most effective when screamed with a mouthful of Stripes, and on her blog at half-chewed hot dog. www.themeatandpotatoesoflife.com But when our daughters joined cross country teams, and can be contacted at we realized that we might need to modify our spectator [email protected] or on Twitter: habits. @MolinariWrites or ‘like’ her on Facebook at: As virgin cross country parents, we hated getting up https://facebook.com/ in the middle of the night to be at an 8:00 a.m. away TheMeatandPotatoesofLife race, arriving at the course groggy and confused.
5 FLEET & FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER
Oct 16-20: SAPR Victim Advocate Training, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The SAPR program needs dedicated Sailors and DoD Civilians, male and female, who are committed to Sexual Assault Prevention and Response. Unit Victim Advocates will complete a prescreening process and an interview. Please call Allison Agnello (SARC) at (401) 841-4426. Oct 17: Parenting, Love & Logic, 1 to 2:30 p.m.. Oct 23-27: T-GPS, MWR Recreation Center, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Aids in assisting service members leav- ing the military and their spouses to prepare for transition back to civilian life. Oct 23: Blended Retirement System, 10 to 11 a.m. Designed to provide sailors and family members the infor- mation they need to make informed decisions. Oct 24: Anger Management, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Learn some ways to manage your anger, and change your life for the better. Oct 25: Homebuyers’ Workshop, 6 to 8 p.m. Hear first-hand about qualifications for mortgages and other fi- nancial options . Oct 25: FAP/SAPR Training for CDO’s, 8 to 9 a.m. Oct 26: SAPR VA Refresher Training, 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Refresher Training for Victim Advo- cates. Oct 30: Develop Your Spending Plan, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Learn options to increase income, decrease expenses and decrease indebtedness.
Some classes require registration so please call 841-2283 prior to the class or stop in the Fleet & Family Support Center, building 1260, and check out all the programs they have to offer.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Be the Change Schedule of Events #PurpleThursday – Remember to wear purple in support of domes- tic violence awareness and prevention! Oct 18: Information Table at the Gym – 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct 24: Leisure Bay take-over Oct 26: Candle Light Vigil at The Chapel of Hope, 5 p.m.
If you would like an information table or training held at your com- mand, please contact Debbie Picard at 841-2293 or [email protected] to schedule.
Please look for our purple ribbons, informational tables and Silent Witness at various locations around the base.
6 FLEET & FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER NAVSTA Newport Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month With Official Proclamation Signing
Capt. Ian Johnson, Commanding Officer, NS Newport signs the Domestic Violence Awareness Month procla- mation outside of the Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) last week. Following the signing, Johnson was joined by members of his leadership team and FFSC staff for a group photo, left to right: Marcus Anders, FFSC; Lt. Barbara Colberg, NS Newport Staff Judge Advocate; Fran Sokal and Debra Picard, FFSC: Capt. Johnson, Command Master Chief Paul King, CMC NS Newport; Janet Stitt, Maureen Oconnell and Allison Agnello of FFSC. (Photo by: LTJG Ash Davis) The Proclamation States: Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an annual observance that generates aware- ness of DV as a serious public health issue and the resources available to help prevent/address its occurrence. The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is a DOD program that provides domestic abuse prevention efforts, early identification and intervention, support for victims and treatment for offenders. FAP efforts focus on strengthening family functioning and resiliency. Through FAP the Navy provides a varie- ty of resources to sailors and families to enhance their relationship skills and improve their quality of life. The Navy’s ongoing prevention efforts encourage everyone to “Be the Change” that leads to strengthening our Navy families.
If you think you may be a victim of domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800- 799-SAFE or visit your installation Fleet and Family Support Center for information on available resources. For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cni
7 MORALE, WELFARE & RECREATION
8 AT THE CLINIC Why Naval Health Clinic New England Asks For Your Health Insurance Information & How This Benefits You
By John Kamishlian, NHCNE Patient Administration Depart- tion from a civilian pharmacy. ment Head The types of services we bill your other insurance The Third Party Collection Program (TPC) was es- for are clinic visits, laboratory tests, radiology services tablished as law in 1986 and directs military treatment and pharmacy. The reimbursements we collect help facilities (MTFs) to bill private insurance companies NHCNE supplement our ability to buy necessary medi- for the cost of care the MTF provides to eligible bene- cal equipment, maintain our facility, purchase medica- ficiaries. To comply with this law, we ask all of our tions, fund staff salaries, and to maintain high quality non-active duty patients to complete and sign a patient care. Last fiscal year NHCNE collected DD2569 form indicating whether or not they have $270,530 to date from other insurance! health insurance coverage other than TRICARE. After The TPC Program applies to Active Duty family completing the health insurance form, this is main- members, not the Active Duty member, and to military tained for 1 year in which the staff just has to verify we retirees and their family members. It is important for have one in our system and it is up to date within the beneficiaries to periodically update their health insur- last year from the date signed or if there are changes ance information or notify us when coverage changes. then another form will need to be collected. This process is designed to aid in the rising cost of It is important to stress that no beneficiaries will ev- healthcare in the military health system with no cost to er be charged for care that they receive at NHCNE, nor our beneficiaries. will they ever be billed for any costs that we cannot collect. The good news is that while we submit claims to your insurance for your care, these claims help you meet your health insurance deductibles if you have to visit a civilian health care provider or obtain medica-
Do you need a flu vaccine? NHCNE's Immunizations Department now has flu vaccine product available for all ages. FluBlok, the preferred product for those with severe egg allergies, is also on hand at this time. No appointments are nec- essary as the flu shots are administered on a walk-in basis Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. NAVSTA DoD civilians who do not have TRICARE can get their flu shots at NHCNE if they register, fill out a Third Party Collection form and have their insurance card with them.
9 NOW HEAR THIS DID YOU KNOW? should be set at 68 degrees throughout the heating There are two kinds of smoke alarms - ionization and season so bring along a sweater if you run cold! photoelectric . Ionization alarms are quicker to warn about flaming fires. Photoelectric alarms are quicker to warn about smoldering fires. For early warning, smoke alarms should be installed on either the ceiling or high on a wall. However, when installing smoke detectors on a wall, do not install closer than 4 inches or more than 12 inches from the ceiling.
DO YOU OWN YOUR OWN WEAPON? OFFICERS’ CLUB IS OPEN FOR DINNER If so, please familiarize yourself with Naval Station Correction: In last week’s Focus on Food section we Newport Instruction 5530.7C “Privately Owned advertised that the O’Club would only be open for Weapons on NAVSTA Newport,” prior to attempting Thursday night Lobster nights and closed other eve- to bring it onboard this installation. You can read it in nings. That decision has been reversed so plan on its entirety at: www.cnic.navy.mil/Newport—click on skipping the bridge traffic and grabbing a great meal the link to instructions and scroll down to 5530.7C. and cold beverage at the O’Club. Their winter hours Stay Safe. are Mon-Fri from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Closed week- ends and federal holidays. NAVSTA NEWPORT BLOOD DRIVES NEY HALL GALLEY NAVY BIRTHDAY MEAL Oct. 23 at Naval Health Clinic New Ney Hall will be open for anyone with routine installa- England from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the tion access and their guests on Oct 18 from 11 a.m. to Command Conference Room 1 p.m. for a special Navy Birthday Luncheon. The Oct 23 at John H. Chafee Fitness Center 3:30-6:00 price is $5.55 and the menu will include potato chow- p.m. der soup; roasted kernel corn; lobster tails; steamed Oct. 30 at the Naval Academy Prep School from 2:30 broccoli; grilled steak; crab salad; baked potatoes; to 8 p.m. in Perry Hall Rm 100 fruits and dessert. Remember—you do NOT have to be assigned to the
command that is hosting the drive to donate—just FIRE STATION TELEPHONE # show up and drop off a pint! NS Newport Fire Department has a new local #: 401- Any questions about donating please call 401-453- 841-2567 which will ring to multiple phones through- 8307 (M-F 8a.m-4pm) Each donation helps three lives. out the fire station. This number will now be used as their business/non-emergency telephone line. Please RING 40TH ANNUAL MILITARY BALL be aware that if no personnel are in the fire station due Buy your tickets online now at www.ring-mb.com for to an emergency or other reasons this line will not for- the Rhode Island National Guard Military Ball on Sat- ward to the Regional Dispatch Center (RDC). urday Oct. 21, 2017 Should you need a routine response (such as a fire in- spector, etc) continue to contact the RDC at 401-841- COLD WEATHER COUNTERMEASURES 2225. With the Fall season upon us and colder weather in REMINDER: in the case of an emergency dial 911 or tow, the central heating systems on base will be com- 401-841-3333 and answer the call takers questions. ing online throughout this month. Most thermostats Be sure to specify you are calling from Naval Station Newport and give a street address to the dispatcher.
10 NOW HEAR THIS
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW! This 5th annual event will take place in Providence, beginning at the RI Statehouse in the late afternoon and heading for the basin area for a full river torch lighting at sunset. Come celebrate veterans (and ac- tive duty military) of all services. For all the details and to get involved, go to www.waterfiresalutetoveterans.org
MILITARY DISCOUNT ON TUITION Beginning the 2018-2019 school year, The Pennfield School will offer a 50% military discount to active U. S. military families that have students in grades Kin- dergarten - Grade 8. Pennfield will offer a 25% mili- tary discount for active U. S. military families for children in the 5 day a week preschool or prekinder- garten program. For more information, email [email protected] or go online to: www.pennfield.org
11 TRAFFIC & COMMUTING NEWPORT PELL BRIDGE INFO JAMESTOWN, R.I. – The Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority (RITBA) will continue above deck work through November 2017. This will focus on continuing the roadway deck work with partial removal and replacement and will require single travel lanes in each direction. Rhode Island State Police presence will be increased during the project, strictly enforcing the weight/width ban and reduced speed restrictions for all vehicles. Want updates on the Bridges? go to www.ritba.org Citizens Bank Pell Bridge Run will be held Oct 22. The run is a 4 mile charity run/walk with 100% of the proceeds going to support nonprofits and local community organizations. The run provides a rare opportunity for the public to cross over the beautiful Newport Pell Bridge on foot and enjoy the stunning natural scenery of Narragansett Bay. Early morning motorists in the Jamestown and Newport area should be prepared for slight delays and traffic detours due to the run. The event will begin at 7 a.m. and police will begin blocking off some roads starting at 6:45 a.m. No pedestrians other than registered athletes will be allowed on any part of the Newport Pell Bridge during the run. Motoring travel on the bridge will be reduced to a single lane. State Police detail will be on site to alternate westbound from Newport and Eastbound from Jamestown travel be- tween 7 and 8 a.m.
Installation Gate Hours: Following are routine gate hours: Gate 1: open 7 days a week/24 hours a day for routine traffic. Gate 1 will have a second lane open at 6:15 a.m. for the morning rush hour commute Gate 2: Open for a.m. commute Mon-Fri from 6:15 to 8:30 a.m. to alleviate Gate 1 backups Gate 17: Open Mon-Fri from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.—commercial vehicles should use Gate 17. Gate 7: NHCNE Gate, open Mon-Fri 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Gate 23: NUWC Gate open 24/7 for commuters Gate 32: Open Mon-Fri 6:30 to 9 a.m. and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. for commuters
ROAD CLOSURES Oct 16-17— NUWC Gate 23 closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for maintenance Oct 16-31—Luce Ave through Cushing Rd one lane closures for sidewalk repairs Oct 23-30—NUWC building 80 parking (north side parking lot)
BICYCLE RIDERS: Make sure you have your helmet on while riding on the installation—it’s the rule!
MOTOCYCLE RIDERS—Go onto ESAMS to register for the fi- nal riding classes for this season that will be offered later this month—for more information call: 841-1390
12 HOT JOBS
There are 84 federal govern- ment job opportunities in Rhode Island listed on USA- JOBS today! (www.usajobs.gov) Many of these positions are onboard Naval Sta- tion Newport—check it out weekly to see what doors open for your future with the U.S. Government.
13 AROUND THE ISLAND Historical Immersion in Newport This Month Join the Newport Historical Society this month in exploring the Common Burying Ground. Learn about the stone carvers, their art and the diverse people buried there who helped shape New- port's history. Tours cost $20 per person, $15 New- port Historical Society members, active duty and retired military with ID; $5 for children ages 5-12. Reservations recommended as space is limited. Please call 401-841-8770 with any questions or for more information. *Details about the tour departure point will be given when reservations are made* Redcoats Among Rebels: British Soldiers and Newport Citizens, 1777 A Lecture with Author Don Hagist Newport, RI – September, 2017 – In December of 1776, a large British military force established a post in Rhode Island, headquartered in Newport. Throughout 1777, the soldiers and sailors who had come to drive out "rebels" settled into a tense coexistence with an independence-minded civilian population that loathed their presence. On Thursday, October 19, 2017 at 5:30 pm, join author Don Hagist for a discussion on the types of men in the British regiments that garrisoned in Newport, and their interactions with the population of the town and surrounding countryside. Don N. Hagist is an editor for Journal of the American Revolution (allthingsliberty.com). His focus on de- mographics and material culture of the British Army in the American Revolution grew from the discovery that there was paucity of literature on the common British soldier, and that much of the conventional wisdom on the subject was inconsistent with available first-hand information. This led to a continuing quest to find and assimilate primary sources in Great Britain and America to better understand the thousands of professional British soldiers who served during the 1775-1783 war. Don’s specific areas of expertise include British operations in Rhode Island, wives of British soldiers, and the service of the 22nd Regiment of Foot (the Cheshire Regiment) in America. Don maintains a blog about British common soldiers, http://redcoat76.blogspot.com, and has published a number of articles in academic journals. His most recent books, The Revolution’s Last Men: The Soldiers behind the Photo- graphs (Westholme Publishing, 2015) and British Soldiers, American War (Westholme Publishing, 2012), are avail- able from major booksellers. Don works as an engineering consultant in Rhode Island, and also writes for several well-known syndicated and freelance cartoonists. “Redcoats Among Rebels: British Soldiers and Newport Citizens, 1777” takes place at the NHS Resource Center, 82 Touro Street, Newport, RI, and costs $5 per person, $1 for NHS members, active and retired military with ID. Please RSVP at NewportHistory.org or call 401-841-8770.
Beirut Veterans of America—”The First Duty is to Remember” 34th Annual Beirut Memorial Observance Ceremony will be Monday, October 23 at 10 a.m. The annual event is held at the Portsmouth Historical Society, 870 East Main Rd., Portsmouth. No need to RSVP, the ceremony is opened to anyone interested in attending and pays special tribute to the nine Rhode Island Marines who lost their lives that tragic day.
14 AROUND THE FLEET USS Washington Brought to Life, Commissioned at NS Norfolk From Commander, Submarine Forces Newport News and Public Affairs Electric Boat and The Navy with assistance from by the Sailors who the submarine's sponsor Elisabeth call this ship home, Mabus, daughter of the 75th Secre- USS Washington tary of the Navy Ray Mabus, com- will be prepared missioned and brought to life the for whatever is to newest Virginia class submarine, come," said Ma- USS Washington (SSN 787), dur- bus. ing a ceremony on board Naval USS Washing- Station Norfolk, Oct. 7. ton commanding Washington, named in honor of officer, Cmdr. Ga- the 42nd state, is the 14th Virginia- briel Cavazos, class, fast-attack submarine to join highlighted the Sailors render a salute during the commissioning the Navy's operational fleet. Elisa- Washington's capa- ceremony for the Virginia Class Submarine USS beth Mabus expressed how proud bility to dominate Washington (SSN 787) at NS Norfolk. Washington she was of the crew and their fami- the undersea do- is the U.S. Navy's 14th Virginia-class attack sub- lies. main and enable marine and the fourth U.S. Navy ship named for "I know, though you are all ea- military success in the State of Washington. (photo by MC3 Joshua M. Tolbert) ger to set out on the Washington, any engagement. this like all naval service will re- "As I have told the crew on Washington is a flexible, multi- quires you to be away from your many occasions, they are the most mission platform designed to carry families for long stretches, so thank important component of the ship. out the seven core competencies of you to the families" said Mabus. They give the ship its personality the submarine force: anti- "In a very real sense you are plank and warfighting spirit. Without the submarine warfare; anti-surface owners of this ship as well." crew, Washington would not be the warfare; delivery of special opera- Mabus gave the order to "man warfighting platform she was built tions forces; strike warfare; irregu- our ship and bring her to life" be- to be; however, combine the two, lar warfare; intelligence, surveil- fore the crew of about 130 men ran and, together, we are the Black- lance and reconnaissance; and across the brow, onto the vessel. fish," said Cavazos. mine warfare. Their inherent Washington is the fourth of Today USS Washington is alive stealth, endurance, mobility, and eight Block III Virginia-class sub- and stands ready for mission. firepower directly enable them to marines to be built. The Block III "Thank you for being here to support five of the six maritime submarines are built with new Vir- celebrate this momentous occasion strategy core capabilities: sea con- ginia Payload Tubes designed to with us," said Cavazos. trol, power projection, forward lower costs and increase missile- Washington is the fourth U.S. presence, maritime security and firing payload possibilities. The Navy ship, and first submarine, to deterrence. first 10 Block I and Block II Vir- be named honoring the State of The submarine is 377 feet long, ginia class submarines have 12 in- Washington. The previous three has a 34-foot beam, and will be dividual 21-inch diameter vertical ships were an armored cruiser, able to dive to depths greater than launch tubes able to fire Toma- (ACR 11), which served from 1905 800 feet and operate at speeds in hawk Land Attack Missiles to 1916, the battleship (BB 47) a excess of 25 knots submerged. It (TLAMS). The Block III subma- Colorado-class battleship launched will operate for over 30 years with- rines are built with two-larger 87- in 1921 and sunk as a gunnery tar- out ever refueling. inch diameter tubes able to house get in 1924 after her construction Construction on Washington be- six TLAMS each. was halted, and the battleship (BB gan September 2011; the subma- "We won't know what challeng- 56) credited with sinking more ene- rine's keel was authenticated during es we will face as a nation in 10, 15 my tonnage than any other U.S. a ceremony on Nov. 22, 2014; and or 20 years, but we know because Navy battleship during World War the submarine was christened dur- of the work being done now at II, serving from 1941 to 1947. ing a ceremony March 5, 2016.
15 AROUND THE FLEET Daddy on Duty: Lake Erie Sailors Become Dads during Deployment by MC3 Lucas Hans, USS Lake Erie Public me updated," said Stevens. "She Affairs sends me pictures and videos as of- ARABIAN GULF (NNS) -- Five ten as she can. I've done United months ago, Sailors aboard the Ti- Through Reading so that he can fi- conderoga-class guided-missile nally hear my voice." cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) Chief Quartermaster Derek Goeh- waved goodbye to their family and mann, from Lynnwood, Wash., and friends and sailed west on deploy- his wife, N.C., welcomed the newest addition to their family July 5. This ment. Since then, five of those Sail- Erie's new dads said they have noth- ors' families have grown by one. is the second time Goehmann has been deployed on his wife's due ing but respect and admiration for "My wife got pregnant in January their wives. and we were hoping for the best," date. "My wife gave birth to our son, "My wife is an amazing person said Fire Controlman 1st Class Aus- and an even better mother," said tin Emery, from Santa Barbara, Cali- Evan, via C-section," said Goeh- mann. "The delivery was scheduled, Goehmann. "She's meticulous and fornia "I hoped that I would get to caring and it shows in how well she go home, but the mission is too im- so, I knew to be expecting word. The pregnancy was labeled a high- takes care of our children. In this portant to leave." crazy Navy life, my wife handles it While in port in Qatar, halfway risk pregnancy, so that added to the normal stress you experience as an all with an outstanding amount of around the world from his family, grace. We are lucky to have her." Emery's life was changing forever. expecting parent. Thankfully, Evan was born perfectly fine." With deployment more than half- "I was on watch when my wife way done, these new dads are anx- went into labor," said Emery. "I re- Sailors may face a conflict be- tween mission and family. iously awaiting the Lake Erie's re- ceived the text the next day when I turn home and to hold their new was on liberty. I spent the entire day "The situation is not ideal by any standard," said Goehmann. "It's a children for the very first time. on the phone with my wife. She "You name the feeling and I'm spent about 15 hours in labor." situation that we can't really control. It seems to be two-fold. I want be feeling it," said Stevens. "I'm really In his absence, Emery said he's nervous. I can't wait to meet and thankful that their friends and family there for my wife and as a father for my children, but, I also have this hold him. I want to do all the normal were there as a support system for dad things. I know I'll probably be his wife. responsibility to my country and mission I enlisted to be a part of." crying the second I see him." Yeoman 3rd Class Antwoun Ste- Lake Erie is deployed in the U.S. vens and his wife welcomed their Having a child is a moment no parent wants to miss. It's a time 5th Fleet area of operations in sup- son, Immanuel, Sept. 14. Like so port of maritime security operations many others, he is navigating the when parents lean on one another and enjoy the miracle of life. Miss- designed to reassure allies and part- challenges of staying connected to ners, and preserve the freedom of his family while on deployment. ing that special day can be very dif- ficult for both parties and Lake navigation and the free flow of com- "My wife is making sure to keep merce in the region.
Sailors aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) observe as an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter trans- fers supplies from the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12) during a replenishment-at-sea to enable continuing operations in Puerto Rico. Kearsarge is assisting with relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Ma- ria. The Department of Defense is supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the lead federal agency, in helping those affected by Hurricane Maria to minimize suf- fering and is one component of the overall whole-of- government response effort. (photo by MC3 Michael Eduardo Jorge)
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A Veterans Day of Honor—Honor Flight Event It has been just about five years since the Rhode Island Fire Chiefs (RIFC) Honor Flight Hub was established. Since that time, the organization has taken nearly 500 WW II veterans along with some Korean veterans to vis- it and reflect at their memorials in Washington, D.C. at no cost to the veterans. Truly, it is a mission of passion and honor. On Sunday, November 12, 2017, they will be holding a fundraiser, “A Veteran’s Day of Honor” at Twin River Casino and Event Center. All proceeds from this event will be used to help them continue their mission of securing our veterans a visit to their memorials in Washington, D.C. Remember, they survive sole- ly on public donations. The event will be held from 12 to 4 p.m.. Tickets are $75.00 per person, which in- cludes a plated meal and entertainment provided by The Company Bees. Also, there will be live and silent auctions. You may purchase your tickets online by visiting www.rihonorflight.com
Looking for area Military Discounts??? Don’t forget to look for this sign on the windows of RI area businesses, res- taurants, retailers and recreation facilities—if you don’t see it then ask if they provide a military discount. Support those businesses who support the men and women who serve now and have served. For a complete listing go to: www.risalutes.com
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