Patriotic Jet Flying High Spring Fling & Easter Egg Hunt by Penny Randall April 13 from Public Affairs Officer 11 A.M.- 2 P.M

Volume 57, Number 6 https://www.cnic.navy.mil/meridian ~ www.facebook.com/NASMeridian ~ Twitter: @nasmeridianms March 21, 2019 On Base Patriotic jet flying high Spring Fling & Easter Egg Hunt By Penny Randall April 13 from Public Affairs Officer 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. The coincidence was just too perfect for Capt. at Ponta Creek. Nick Mungas when he saw the number 176 on the Call jet in addition to the name of Cmdr. Bryan “Betsy” Ross. At that moment he knew the jet must have a 601-679-2526 patriotic paint scheme. Mungas, commodore of Training Air Wing One onboard Naval Air Station Meridian, knew exactly who to call on to design the paint scheme, and Lt. Scott “Hooker” Hook, who holds a master’s degree in architecture, was excited to take on the challenge. “Capt. Mungas had the idea and although we repainted aircraft 101, Off Base we originally planned on painting 176 which plays on 1776 (and a nod to the mother of the first American flag design, Betsy Ross herself). That led us to Photo courtesy North Island incorporate the original 13-star flag in the design,” Hook said. “I drew up multiple Public Affairs Office Military iterations, trying to keep the design within the areas normally painted orange, until we came up with something we liked.” Appreciation =Jet, page 10 Day

Meridian Community College March 30, 2 p.m. Baseball Game Scaggs Field NAS conducts Naval Security Force training Free admission for retirees, active duty and reservists with ID.

All others: $5, children 12 and under are free.

Follow us on www.facebook. com/NASMeridian and Twitter: Photo by Penny Randall @NASMeridianMS MA1 Joshua Durham, left, administers a spray of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) or commonly known as “pepper spray” to AC3 Alec Beiter who is completing the Security Reaction Force- Basic (SRF-B) course training, March 8. There are currently six personnel completing Security Reaction Force-Basic course Photo by Penny Randall onboard Naval Air Station Meridian, and four completing Navy ABH2 Ashlie Ray shouts orders to MA3 Frederick Seminario, in the What’s Security Force Sentry (NSFS) course of instruction. The NSFS red suit, as she qualifies for the Navy Security Force Sentry course portion of the class is two-weeks with a follow on one-week by completing a series of stations demonstrating various types of Inside instruction for the SRF-B course. All participants were required security maneuvers, March 8. There are four personnel completing to participate in the OC course but with different levels of the Navy Security Force Sentry (NSFS) course of instruction contamination. Level 1 is contaminated with direct contact onboard NAS Meridian. This course will qualify personnel both for to the face, Level 2 is indirect contact and Level 3 is area shore security and at a sea command where they will be qualified contamination. If participants have been sprayed before they to be part of the Ship Board Security Force. page 2: are not required to be contaminated again.

Area Happenings

page 5: Department of the Navy releases FY 2020 budget Marines test new technology The Department of the Navy (DON) submitted its Fiscal Year 2020 (FY20) budget request to Congress today, March 12. The $205.6 billion (Base and Overseas page 7: Contingency Operations (OCO)) request is part of the $718 billion (Base and OCO) defense budget, which President Donald Check out what’s Trump submitted to Congress March 11. for sale Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Budget, Rear Adm. Randy Crites, briefed media during a Department of De- fense press conference on the Navy and page 9: Marine Corps portion of the budget. “This year’s budget submission reflects Family Finances the best possible balance of available resources to build a bigger, better and more ready Navy and Marine Corps team to strengthen the Navy the nation needs,” Crites said. “The FY2020 funding invests in our people and demonstrates our commitment to providing the capacity and capabilities needed to fight and win in this new era of great power competition.” The FY20 budget represents an increase of 4.8 percent over the FY19 enacted budget (Base and OCO). The increased funding will help to restore the Navy’s competitive advantage by building on previous ~ page 2 ~ investments in readiness and lethality in U.S. Navy graphic by Kirsten M. Sisson support of strengthening the Navy and Ma- A U.S. Navy graphic depicting the fiscal year 2020 budget request for the Department of rine Corps team’s contribution to the Joint Cybersecurity the Navy (DON) as submitted to Congress. The $205.6 billion request (Base + Overseas Force. Contingency Operations) represents a 4.8 percent increase from the fiscal year 2019 enacted Readiness =Budget, page 10 budget. 2 The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 Photo of Week A Day in Naval History ~ March 21, 1917 ~

Loretta Walsh became the first American active-duty Navy woman, the first woman to enlist in the U.S. Navy, and the first woman allowed to serve as a woman in any of the United States armed forces, as anything other than as a nurse. Walsh subsequently became the first woman U.S. Navy petty officer when she was sworn in as Chief Yeoman on March 21, 1917.

~ March 23, 1965 ~

Navy Lt. Cmdr. John W. Young is a pilot on Gemini III, the first 2-manned spacecraft, that Photo by MC2 Kyle Hafer completes three orbits in four A young girl waves to a Navy diver swimming in the aquarium at the Mall of hours, 53 minutes at an altitude America in Minneapolis, Minn., during Navy Recruiting Command’s Swarm of 224 km. He became the ninth Minneapolis evolution, March 7. person to walk on the Moon as Commander of the Apollo 16 mission in 1972. Young enjoyed the longest career of any Area Happenings astronaut, becoming the first person to fly six space missions (with seven launches, counting March his lunar liftoff) over the course of 42 years of active NASA 29: Monterey Jazz Festival at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley service. He is the only person Center. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the revered Monterey to have piloted, and been Jazz Festival presents a stage full of young talent. These all-stars commander of, four different classes of spacecraft: Gemini, perform beloved standards as well as their own original music. the Apollo Command/Service Tickets are $43 and $37; call 601-696-2200. Module, the Apollo Lunar 29: Spring Fling Meridian Blood Drive from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. at Module, and the Space Shuttle. the MCC Workforce Center. Blood donors will receive special water bottles and happies from community supported sponsors. Call Gina Conner at 601-938-6409. 30: Burgers & Barks at Bonita from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Bonita Lakes. All proceeds to support the East Mississippi Animal Rescue. Attractions include: pet parade, food vendors, inflatables, Navy News Briefs pet photo booth, face painting. $25 entry fee for the Pet Parade which includes admission into the event; $10 entry fee for family. SECNAV releases Cybersecurity Readiness Review Call 601-938-5922. 30: State Games of MS Net Fest Soccer Tournament from Letter from Secretary of the Navy: Naval Operations and the Commandant 11 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Jaycee Soccer Complex. 3v3 Soccer On Oct. 12, 2018 I asked a group of of the Marine Corps, will coordinate with subject matter experts to review the the Department of Defense and Congress Tournament: U8 B/G; U10 B/G; U12 B/G; U14 B/G; High School Department of the Navy’s cybersecurity for the resources required to compete (Grades 9-12) B/G & Coed; Under 30 M/W Coed; Over 30 M/W & posture. This group teamed with current and win in the cyber domain. Coed. Deadline to register is March 25; cost is $20 per player; call operational military and civilian experts Leadership has already initiated this to compare Navy’s cybersecurity gover- process as part of a broader review of 601-482-0205. nance structures against best practices how best to organize the Department to 31: Sucarnochee Revue Sunday Down South at 2 p.m. at the from both government and industry for address the overall challenges of infor- Historic Temple Theater. The show will feature a variety of talent alignment of authority, accountability, mation management; to include not only and responsibility. cybersecurity, but also data strategy and and music from Country to Bluegrass and everything in between. The report highlights the value of readiness, business system rationaliza- Concessions available; doors open at 1 p.m. Tickets are $10; $1 data and the need to modify our business tion, and artificial intelligence. We will for children under 12; call 601-693-5353. and data hygiene processes in order to be working with the Congress to deter- protect data as a resource. This review mine what legislative authorities may April also provides an assessment of the cul- be required to implement any significant 4: Symphony Doo Dah at the MSU Riley Center. Character- ture, people, governance, processes, and changes. resources as they pertain to cybersecu- I thank the review team for their ef- hosted instrument zoo and face painting at 6 p.m; concert follows. rity in the Department of the Navy. Rec- forts and comprehensive research and This is one concert that brings out the kid in all of us! Tickets are ommendations in the review specifically analysis. Their exploration of best prac- $25 for adults and $10 for students; military discounts available; address policy, processes, and resources tices in both industry and government needed to enhance cyber defense and in- provides the Navy a clear path forward call 601-696-2200. crease resiliency. as the Department addresses this chal- 6: Threefoot Art Festival & Earth’s Bounty from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. With urgency the Department of the lenge. at Meridian City Hall. Earth’s Bounty returns the first Saturday of Navy Secretariat along with the Chief of --Richard V. Spencer each month until November. This is a free event. Call 601-485- 1908. 6: Heart Behind the Music at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. Three veterans and a comparative rookie bring widely Navy aviators educate, inspire Texas A&M varying styles to the latest Heart Behind the Music Songwriter’s NROTC students in College Station Showcase. Tickets are $39 and $33; call 601-696-2200. Approximately 200 Texas A&M Uni- with a pilot from every stage of becom- versity Navy ROTC students got a first- ing a naval aviator, from student and hand look at Navy aircraft during a stat- instructor pilots all the way through pi- ic display event at Easterwood Airport in lots assigned to the gray aircraft of active College Station, March 5. fleet squadrons. Aircraft from across the U.S. flew in to “It’s important for me wanting to support the event, which gave students a be a pilot because I get to see what it’s chance to talk to pilots about career op- like with different platforms and dif- NAS Meridian NMCRS Office portunities within Naval Aviation. ferent aircraft,” said Midshipman 1st Executive Officer of Texas A&M Class Jake Ryan, Texas A&M NROTC. Navy ROTC Cmdr. Robert McGill, from “… Hopefully when I decide to see what is open on Tuesdays Natchitoches, Louisiana, said the event aircraft I want to be in, I will be more was a great way to showcase Navy air- informed.” craft and could help solidify students’ ca- Aside from the trainer aircraft, stu- from 8 a.m.-noon & Thursdays reer decisions. dents also interacted with pilots from “Those who desire to go aviation can a P-3C Orion, P-8A Poseidon, and a EA- see what aircraft are available, and meet 18G Growler, giving them a range of air- from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. flight instructors to see what the future craft platforms and personal experiences holds,” said McGill. from which to learn. Participating air- Through the support of Chief of Naval craft came from Naval Air Station (NAS) Call 601-679-2504. Air Training (CNATRA), students inter- Corpus Christi, Texas, NAS Jackson- acted with pilots from various aircraft ville, Florida, and NAS Whidbey Island, Administration Building 255, platforms. Those aircraft included the Washington. iconic orange-and-white painted T-6B With CNATRA’s continued support of Texan II, T-44 Pegasus, and T-45 Gos- local ROTC units, the Navy and Marine Suite 283 hawk, which are used in primary flight Corps’ leaders of tomorrow will have a training, multi-engine training, and the better understanding on how to prepare jet/strike fighter pipeline respectively. for the rigorous but rewarding journey Throughout the course of the day each ahead of them. student had the opportunity to interact --From Chief of Naval Air Training Public Affairs

This DoD newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Hotlines & Helpful Numbers Contents of The Skyline are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Naval Air Station Meridian, Miss. SAPR Victim Assistance: 601-604-3037 The Skyline ~ government, the Department of Defense, or NAS Meridian, Mississippi. The Skyline is pub- SAPR Civilian Victim Assistance: 601-486-3122 lished every other Thursday by The Meridian Star, a private firm in no way connected with the SARC: 601-481-4274 U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with the commanding officer of Naval Air Station, Command Staff Editorial Staff SAFE Helpline: 877-995-5247 Meridian, Mississippi. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the NAS Commanding Officer ~ Public Affairs Officer ~ Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255 Meridian Public Affairs Office. The Skyline solicits news contributions from military and civilian Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 sources. It reserves the right to edit material selected for publication. The deadline for material Capt. Brian S. Horstman Penny Randall is 4:30 p.m. the Thursday before publication. Send submissions to: The Skyline, 255 Rosen- CEAP (DoN Civilian): 844-366-2327 baum Ave., Suite 163, Public Affairs Office, Naval Air Station, Meridian, MS 39309-5003 or Executive Officer ~ Public Affairs Specialist~ EAP (NAF Civilian): 800-932-0034 e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]. For more information, call (601) 679- FFSC Meridian: 601-679-2360 2318 or (601) 679-2809. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or Cmdr. J.P. Falardeau Adam Prince Chaplain: 601-604-2015 supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Command Master Chief ~ Staff Writer/Photographer ~ NMCRS Duty Cell: 601-604-2206 The Meridian Star of products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this EEO (NAF): 866-295-0328 publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without re- CMDCM Maurice Sutherland MC1 Chris Liaghat gard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handi- EEO (GS): 904-542-2802 cap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user orpatron. The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 3 ‘Bold Assumption’ bringing Warrior Games to Tampa By. C. Todd Lopez announce this year’s games, Army warrior care program, including host it here?’ and at the same time track and field and wheelchair bas- DoD News, Defense Media Activity Gen. Tony Thomas, Socom com- both active duty and retired per- socialized it with the great lead- ketball. mander, explained why the 2019 sonnel. Socom has fielded a team ership here in the local area. The The Warrior Games, Thomas This year’s Department of De- games will be headed farther in the Warrior Games for almost outpouring, as expected, has been said, is “a showcase of our extraor- fense Warrior Games competition south than they’ve ever been be- as long as the games have existed. nothing short of extraordinary.” dinary warriors who have been — which enhances the recovery fore. “We’ve been participating in Around 300 athletes will par- dealt a tough hand of cards in and rehabilitation of wounded, “I’ve had the great opportu- these games for almost a decade ticipate in the 2019 Games. The terms of being wounded, ill, or in- ill, and injured service members nity to participate in the Warrior now,” Thomas said. “Why don’t we Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air jured across the course of their time through adaptive sports — kicks Games for the last three years get a chance to host it?” Force and Socom are again field- in service. But more importantly, it off June 21. over the course of my command The simple answer was that ing teams, as are allied nations gives them an opportunity to shine In past years, the games have tenure,” Thomas said. Those Socom had never asked to host, he including the United Kingdom, and demonstrate their resilience, been hosted by the Defense De- games were held in West Point, said. Australia, and Canada. And this their extraordinary resilience in partment, the Navy, the Air Force, New York; Chicago; and Colorado “The bold assumption we made year for the first time, both Den- the face of those challenges in a va- the Army and the U.S. Olympic Springs, Colorado. The general was, ‘Do we think the Greater mark and the Netherlands will riety of adaptive sports programs.” Committee. For the first time this also said he’s attended the Invic- Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwa- participate. “You will see courage and resil- year, the games are being hosted tus Games — a similar competi- ter environment would support Those athletes will compete in ience like you have never seen be- by U.S. Special Operations Com- tion created by Britain’s Prince us?’” he said. “We knew, going 11 adaptive sports, including ar- fore,” he added. “If you don’t walk mand on its home turf in Florida’s Harry — in Toronto. away, the answer was yes. We chery, cycling, indoor rowing, pow- away inspired, you don’t have a Tampa Bay area, June 21-30. Thomas said Socom has some went out on a limb a little bit and erlifting, shooting, sitting volley- pulse. It’s that level of commitment During a news conference to 15,000 service members in its own asked our department, ‘Can we ball, swimming, time trial cycling, and fortitude that’s displayed.”

Public Works at Work...

Photo by Brandon Maxwell Public Works employees Richard McKee, Eric Jefferies and Gary Mathews work to cut and Photo by Bobby Smith dispose of tree limbs around various buildings and parking lots on the installation. The Public Works technician Eric Ross performs maintenance on removal of the dead or dying limbs eliminated a potential hazard to personnel, buildings, a boiler unit. His attention to detail helps ensure each and and equipment. every boiler is working safely and efficiently onboard NAS Meridian.

Anderson Reenlistment James Reenlistment

Photo by Adam Prince Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Ronald C. Anderson, right, receives his Photo by Adam Prince reenlistment certificate from Air Operations Officer Cmdr. Christopher Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Daniel James, right, receives his Ryder during a ceremony at Air Operations, March 8. Anderson reenlisted reenlistment certificate from Air Traffic Control Facilities Officer Lt. Petunia for six years. Orr during a ceremony at Air Operations, March 15. Anderson reenlisted for six years.

The Region’s Greatest Show & Tell Event!

Tech Enthusiasts • Crafters • Educators Mini Tinkerers • Hobbyists • Engineers Science Clubs • Authors • Artists Maker Students • Inventors • Entrepreneurs Faire®

Meridian A family-friendly celebration of invention, creativity HISTORIC SOULE’ and resourcefulness that STEAM WORKS celebrates the “Maker” 1808 4th Street movement. Meridian, Mississippi Saturday APRIL meridian.makerfaire.com • FB: makerfairemeridian 10am - 5pm [email protected] • 601.693.9905 6-7 Sunday 2019 1pm - 5pm FREE ADMISSION @ EventBrite.com 217441-1 4 The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 MyNavy portal introduces advancement dashboard for enlisted Sailors

By Cmdr. Erik Wells “We want to empower our Sail- Sea Warrior Program (PMW 240) ors and that is what is taking Public Affairs place as we transform the way we deliver our human resources sup- It just got a lot easier for Sail- port to the fleet,” said Vice Adm. ors preparing for the Navy-wide Robert Burke, chief of naval per- Advancement Exam (NWAE) with sonnel. “The Advancement Dash- the roll-out of the Advancement board provides a centralized loca- Dashboard on MyNavy Portal tion with the authoritative data (MNP), March 8. so Sailors know their personal The Advancement Dashboard information is correct and the ref- for E-4 to E-6 candidates is a dy- erence materials used to study for namic, user-friendly, web-based the exams are up-to-date and reli- dashboard on MNP to give Sailors able.” a detailed personal view of their The Advancement Dashboard eligibility status for advancement, is the latest in the Manpower, and instructions and documenta- Personnel, Training and Educa- tion to prepare for the advance- tion (MPT&E) Transformation ment process. efforts to change the way the The Advancement Dashboard Navy delivers human resources currently only applies to E-4 to (HR) – personnel, pay and train- U.S. Navy Graphic E-6 candidates, but future up- ing – services to the fleet. As part A screen image of the new Advancement Dashboard, a dynamic, user-friendly, web-based dates will include enhancements of the Transformation, Sailors dashboard on MyNavy Portal (MNP) to give Sailors a detailed personal view of their eligibility status for E-7 to E-9 candidates. More have a more transparent view for advancement, and instructions and documentation to prepare for the advancement process. The advancement-centric features will into the advancement process Advancement Dashboard is the latest in the Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E roll out on MNP as the Enlisted and improved access to resources Transformation efforts to change the way the Navy delivers human resources (HR) - personnel, pay Advancement Worksheet (EAW) to study for the NWAE through a and training - services to the fleet. becomes available for all Sailors centralized dashboard. in the fall of 2019 and the Profes- “We want our Sailors to ad- sional Military Knowledge Eligi- vance and succeed during their bility Exam is fully automated. (BUPERS-3). “We also wanted Sailors may access the Ad- advancement process, which in- enlistment period in the Navy,” “We wanted to design a one- to make sure Sailors could eas- vancement and Promotion Career cludes eligibility factors, exam said Whitehead. “This is the first stop trusted source for Sailors to ily correct their record prior to and Life Event (CLE) page by preparation, and exam scoring. step in improving our process to get the information they need and the exam and had an avenue to following this link: https://www. Without a transparent view, Sail- help our junior Sailors reach their provide clear insight into the ad- provide feedback on the Advance- mnp.navy.mil/group/advance- ors may miss key deadlines to val- goals and advance their careers, vancement process,” said Capt. ment Dashboard through the Ad- ment-and-promotion. idate their eligibility information where they can improve their Dave Whitehead, director of Mili- vancement and Promotion Career In the past, Sailors had lim- and lose ample time on studying skills and develop greater leader- tary Community Management and Life Event page on MNP.” ited visibility into the enlisted for the test. ship responsibilities.”

Admission scams aside, kids should feel proud

Back in 1983, I showed up for leadership, advanced academics my SAT test with two number and community service, so they two pencils found obscure clubs, suffer through and a pack of AP courses, and stage lame fund- gum. The COLUMN raisers. night before, If their kids have the slightest I talked to my glimmer of athletic ability, parents best friend on sign them up for teams, camps, les- the phone for sons, tournaments and showcases, two hours, but in hopes that college coaches will never cracked take notice. They dip into their a book. I don’t thinning wallets to pay sports think there video companies to create recruit- were test prep ment films of their kids running on books back in soccer fields and returning ground- those days. strokes to jazzy music. Besides, we College interviews are sched- figured SATs Molinari uled, and parents help prepare were aptitude their kids in the car on the way, fir- tests. You ing questions at them and zhuzh- were either smart, or you weren’t. ing their hair. Not much you could do about it. Students begin writing college When my score came back, I essays a year in advance. Original hadn’t broken a thousand, so I took drafts are funneled through teach- the test again. That time, I got a ers, tutors, parents, and counselors 1070, and thought, “Well, I guess who offer “editing advice.” The end that’s it then.” product is unrecognizable, but ev- I picked schools from one of eryone hopes the essay is improved those three-inch-thick catalogues enough to get the student into listing all the colleges and univer- college, or earn him the Pulitzer sities, sent off application packets, Prize. and got accepted to Miami Univer- Applications are sent in, but sity in Oxford, Ohio. Miami cost that’s only Round One. Blood, my parents $12,000 per year, a sweat, and tears are shed as small fortune for them. parents and students brace them- When it came time for each of selves for the painful uppercuts of my three children to go through rejection. Having been through the the college application process, College Application Thunderdome I learned quick that times have with my own children, I fully un- drastically changed. With my SAT derstand the agony of waiting for score, mediocre grades, and no re- that final bell to ring. Hoping you cruitable skills, I would have never did all you could. Hoping your kid been accepted to Miami of Ohio will get what they want. today. And as if this hellish process Not to mention the staggering wasn’t competitive enough, we find cost of college in the 21st Century, out that some wealthy parents which has nearly quadrupled since have been using bribery to get the 1980s. And then, there’s the their kids accepted. While the application process, which is now rest of us are feeling guilty that like entering a College Admissions we helped our kids change a few Thunderdome. Every applicant for words in their college essays, rich themselves, in a cut throat, com- lawyers, wealthy CEOs, hollywood petitive rat race. Featherweight actresses, famous fashion design- kids are thrown into the ring, ers, and other elites are paying wide-eyed and naïve. Their parents upwards of one million dollars to act as cornermen, urging them to bribe college coaches and admis- fight and applying adrenaline to sions test proctors to cheat the stop the bleeding. system. Rather than allow their high But the real losers in this school students to shoot hoops with process aren’t kids who got re- friends after school, parents sign jected from their favorite schools them up for admissions test prep or necessarily the scammers facing courses starting in 10th grade. 20 years in prison, it’s any parent Piles of thick test prep books adorn - criminal or not - who makes their students’ bedroom floors. The least kid feel not good enough to get into expensive online courses courses college on his own merit. cost several hundred dollars, but That’s the real sucker punch. many parents shell out big bucks Lisa Smith Molinari’s self syndicated columns for one-on-one tutoring to the tune appear on her blog, www.themeatandpota- of hundreds of dollars per hour. toesoflife.com and she recently co-authored Kids are told that they won’t Stories Around the Table: Laughter, Wisdom, stand a chance if their college ap- and Strength in Military Life Follow Lisa@ plications don’t show evidence of MolinariWrites. The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 5 Pvt. Chase Hitts Pfc. Jesse Thompson

MATSS-1 Student MATSS-1 Student Hometown: Fremont, Mich. OOORAH! Hometown: Conneaut Lake, Pa. Pvt. Hitts joined the Marine Corps Pfc. Thompson joined the Marine Corps Oct. 15, 2018 wanting to be the first Oct. 15, 2018 to carry on his family’s tra- member of his family to serve in the dition of service. “My grandfather served Marines, and to start a career. in Korea and my great-grandfather Hitts loves being active during his served in WWII,” Thompson said. free time. “I enjoy football, basketball, His favorite Marine Corps tradition is swimming, trail running, going to the the Marine Corps Birthday. “I feel such gym and gaming with friends,” he said. pride in myself and the Corps to see the His most memorable experience from history and know that the Marines will boot camp was the ‘Moto Run.’ “Doing continue for years to come,” he said. that run -- surrounded by our family He is most looking forward to being an members -- was surreal; reminded me example to future Marines during his why I wanted to become a Marine,” career. Hitts said. His most memorable experience from Hitts hopes to travel overseas as boot camp was the EGA ceremony and the much as the Corps will let him. first time he was called a Marine.

New electronic tech enables Marines to combat threats

By Matt Gonzales of similar systems as well as sense and then Marine Corps Systems Command display what is going on in the electronic spectrum,” said Dono. “Then we can communicate Marine Corps Systems Command plans to that to Marines for their decision-making pro- implement a new form of technology that al- cess.” lows the Marine Air-Ground Task Force to MCSC is taking an evolutionary approach identify enemy activity. that allows the command to field the equip- The technology employs a vehicle-borne tool ment faster and then gradually improve the ca- that enables Marines to discern what happens pability as time progresses, Dono said. As the inside the electromagnetic spectrum. It con- technology evolves, the Marine Corps can make nects several independent electronic capabili- incremental improvements as needed. ties into a single unit and allows Marines to The Corps will work with Marines to test a manage threats and reactions from a central variety of displays that track the electromag- location. netic spectrum, looking into each display’s user “Marines are going to be able to make de- interface. The command can then determine if cisions on what they are seeing,” said Lt. Col. improvements must be made to ensure usabil- Thomas Dono, a team lead in MCSC’s Com- ity. mand Elements Systems. “It’s similar to what Apple does with the Marines currently use systems to counter iPhone,” explained Dono. “They have many dif- IEDs that block signals used by adversaries ferent displays and they want to make it natu- to remotely detonate explosive devices. The ral and intuitive, so it’s not something that’s new technology is a man-packable and vehicle- clunky, confusing and has to be learned.” mounted system, which will be able to be de- MCSC plans to field the vehicle-mounted ployed on any Marine vehicle. system around the first quarter of 2020. When “This emergent technology combines a implemented, the equipment will continue to number of current capabilities into one sys- grow in capability to better prepare Marines to tem, thereby reducing the need for additional take on the digital battlefield. training and logistic support to manage mul- “This system is important because it is go- tiple systems,” said Col. Dave Burton, program ing to allow Marines to operate inside the elec- U.S. Marine Corps photo manager for Intelligence Systems at MCSC. tromagnetic spectrum, make decisions and A U.S. Marine walks through a village wearing a backpack system used Once fielded, the system will enhance situ- act upon that information,” said Dono. “That’s to counter remotely detonated explosive devices. Marine Corps Systems ational awareness on the battlefield. something they’ve never had to consider or Command plans to implement a system similar to this device that can be “We will be able to do all of the functions think about in the past.” mounted on any Marine Corps vehicle.

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii southern california

Photo by Sgt. Dominic Romero U.S. Marine corporals Reid Geyer and Michael Womack, crewmasters with Marine Photo by Sgt. Jesus Sepulveda Torres Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine A U.S. Marine with Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, III Marine Aircraft Wing, prepare to refuel an F/A-18 Hornet with Marine Fighter Attack Expeditionary Force, charges toward a target during a squad supported attack at the Squadron 323, MAG-11, carrying ten AIM-120 and two AIM-9X Air-to-Air missiles, Kaneohe Bay Range Training Facility, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, March 5. over the W-291 training area in southern California, March 6. Safety & Energy Efficiency is Our Duty 6 The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019

NAS Meridian, MS • Morale, Welfare and Recreation On the Web: www.navymwrmeridian.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MWRMeridian

Facility Phone Numbers

Fitness Center 679-2379 Library 679-2326 P.C. Golf Course 679-2526 Liberty Center 679-3760 Rudders Pub & Grill 679-2780 MWR Admin. 679-2551 Tickets 679-3773 CDC/CDH 679-2652 MWR Jobs Line 679-2467 McCain Rec Center 679-2651 SAC 679-5252 Equipment Rental 679-2609 SLO 679-2473

Coming Coming Attractions Attractions McCain Rec McCain Rec Center Center Thursday, March 21 Friday, March 29 5 p.m., Cars, G 5 p.m., Ralph Breaks the Internet, PG 7 p.m., Mortal Engines, PG13 7 p.m., Green Book, PG13 Friday, March 22 Saturday, March 30 5 p.m., Cars 2, G 1 p.m., Zootopia, PG 7 p.m., Holmes & Watson, PG13 5 p.m., Aquaman, PG13 7:30 p.m., Green Book, PG13 Saturday, March 23 1 p.m., A Bug’s Life, G Sunday, March 31 5 p.m., Bumblebee, PG13 1 p.m., Spider-Man: Into the..., PG 7 p.m., Holmes & Watson, PG13 5 p.m., Second Act, PG13 7 p.m., Aquaman, PG13 Sunday, March 24 1 p.m., Cars, G Monday, April 1 5 p.m., Mortal Engines, PG13 5 p.m., Trolls, PG 7 p.m., Bumblebee, PG13 7 p.m., Unbreakable, PG13 Monday, March 25 Tuesday, April 2 5 p.m., Spider-Man: Into the..., PG 5 p.m., WALL-E, G 7 p.m., Second Act, PG13 7 p.m., The Wood, R Tuesday, March 26 Wednesday, April 3 5 p.m., Ralph Breaks the Internet, PG 5 p.m., The Secret Life of Pets, PG 7 p.m., Green Book, PG13 7 p.m., The Mule, R Wednesday, March 27 Thursday, April 4 5 p.m., Zootopia, PG 5 p.m., Trolls, PG 7 p.m., Aquaman, PG13 7 p.m., Unbreakable, PG13 Thursday, March 28 Friday, April 5 5 p.m., Spider-Man: Into the..., PG 5 p.m., WALL-E, G 7 p.m., Second Act, PG13 7 p.m., The Wood, R The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 7 Sports

REGISTRATION: FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 27 LEAGUE PLAY: APRIL 1 - JUNE 10

COACHES MEETING: MARCH 28

Visit navymwrmeridian.com/fitness for registration. Contact Tim Lockey @ (601) 679-2367 for more information.

Captain’s Cup leagues are open to Active Duty personnel, Retirees, Reservists, DoD Civilians, Dependents and Contractors working full-time on the installation. Participants must be 18 or older.

navymwrmeridian.com Group Exercise Schedule INDOOR VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE REGISTRATION: MARCH 4 - APRIL 2 Group Exercise Classes are held in the Multi-Use room (or outside, weather permitting). All classes are FREE to Active Duty personnel, Retirees, Reservists, DoD Civilians, their Dependents and LEAGUE PLAY: APRIL 10 - JUNE 19 Guests, and Contractors working full-time on the installation. For more information call (601) 679-2379. Visit NAVYMWRMERIDIAN.COM/FITNESS for registration. PERSONAL TRAINING AND NOFFS/COMMAND PT SESSIONS ALSO AVAILABLE. CONTACT FITNESS CENTER FOR MORE DETAILS. Contact Tim Lockey @ (601) 679-2367 for more information.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY Bodybuilding/ SPIN HIIT NOFFS Strength HIIT Strength 1100 w/ Courtney 1100 w/ Courtney 1100 w/ Courtney 1100 w/ Courtney 1100 w/ Courtney

navymwrmeridian.com Fire aboard Devastator; no injuries A fire broke out aboard the mine countermeasures ship USS Devastator (MCM 6) while the ship was pierside at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain at approximately 8 p.m. local, March 14. There were no personnel injuries. The extent of the damage is being assessed, and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Sailors aboard Devastator, USS Sentry (MCM 3), USS Gladiator (MCM 11), USS Dextrous (MCM 13), and USS Whirlwind (PC 11), as well as the NSA Bah- rain Fire Department, responded to the fire. The ship declared the fire out at approximately 9 p.m. local, and Sailors continued to cool hot spots to prevent a reflash. Devastator is one of 21 forward-deployed ships to the U.S. 5th Fleet. U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse is comprised of 20 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Ca- nal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern Photo by Corbin J. Shea tip of Yemen. The mine countermeasure (MCM) ship USS Devastator (MCM 6) transits through the Arabian Gulf. Devastator is --From U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs participating in U.K.-U.S. Mine Countermeasures Exercise 17-1.

Sale... Or

BOATS/CAMPERS/TRAILERS 800XP Browning Edition, AUTOMOBILES, ETC. a tour. For Sale: 3BD/3BA, spa- floor, pulls good and has camo color. roof, wind- For Rent: 2BD/2BA home cious home 15 minutes from 2 new back tires. Asking 2017 Keystone Ava- shield, winch, extra set of 2010 Black Honda Ac- on the water in Dalewood. NAS, quiet neighborhood, $900 or best offer. Call Nan- lanche 365MB (5th wheel) wheels/tires, and dual gun cord EX-L, 133K miles, Washer, dryer, kitchen ap- 424 Windover Circle, 2900 cy at 601-462-9312 motor home. Sleeps eight; scabbard. Asking $7,800. automatic, sunroof, heated pliances included. Asking ft. Call for private showing. Remington Model 700 great living quarters; in- Call Pete at 601-678-3458. leather seats $8000. Call/ $900 per month – tenant Owner is relocating for job in .270 cal with a Cus- cludes cables, hoses and 2013 Harley David- text 601-616-1833. responsible for power, wa- will consider leasing, open tom Boyds Multi-colored septic lines. Asking $49k. son Switchback, Asking 2017 Camaro Gen6, 4k ter and yearly dues. Call to all offerings. Call 601- Laminated Wood Stock Call 586-899-6429. $8,000; only one owner; miles, 50th anniversary lim- Maynell at 601-595-5382. 686-0277. and a Leupold VX3 4.5-14 2018 Mallard M185 still under warranty; all ited addition; like-new con- For Sale: 4BD/2BA For Sale: 3 BD/1 BA x40mm Scope. Price $700. Travel Trailer. Sleeps 4 maintenance done by Har- dition. $38,500. Call 601- home close NAS in Dal- home on Edgewood Dr. in Call 601-462-8097 with 1 queen bed/2 bunks. ley Davidson. Call 505- 686-1027. eville! Perfect for hunting, Meridian. Asking $33,500. Two Black storage Easy to tow at 3,575 lbs; 658-1675. 2012 Honda Civic, 47k fishing, horseback riding, or Call 601-880-1168. trucks all brass closures; only selling because mili- 1982 Harley Davidson miles, $9,200. Call 601- ATV’s; Ideal weekend get- $10 each. Call 601-482- tary member is moving FLHS, 80 C.I. Shovelhead 490-3835. away house with huge shop MISCELLANEOUS 2276. overseas. Great living Engine w/4-Speed Trans- HOMES/APARTMENTS with electricity and covered Woman’s Converse quarters with lake view. mission. Nice Antique Bike parking. Northeast School New! Bose A20 Aviation Composite Toe Trainer Hooked up and ready to -- just can’t ride anymore. New! For Sale 3BD/2BA District. Call Jenny Ziemba Headset w/Bluetooth like Safety Shoe Size 10, brand live in, including cables, Call 601-527-9756/601- home in West Lauderdale at 601-480-5969 or 601- new barely used (2 hrs max new in box, $65. White with hoses, septic lines, plus 986-8378 School District; features: 282-5261. usage) in perfect working gray & teal trim. Call Teresa the $500 towing kit. Ask- 2004 Honda TRX450R gas log fireplace, covered For Sale: 4BD/2BA, condition. Paid $1,103.90 601-616-9251 (Please no ing $17,000. Call 360-434- four wheeler $2,600; 2005 patio, fenced in back yard, 249 sq.ft home, Southern have original receipt and all calls after 8 p.m.) 3035 Honda TRX250EX four huge laundry room. 1,700 Oaks Subd, NE Lauderdale original boxing and case. MOTORCYCLES/GEAR/ATV wheeler $1,600; 2002 Ya- sq. ft. Asking $164,000. Call School District, 12 ft ceil- Asking $700 OBO. Call Kim maha TTR-125L dirt bike 601-282-5261 to schedule ings, gas heating (new unit), at 601-480-7181. 2010 Ultra Classic Har- $800; and 2006 50SX-F appointment. new dishwasher, alarm sys- Two medium-large size To submit an item to ley Davidson 29K miles dirt bike $2,200. All in good New! For Sale 23BD/2BA tem, quiet and safe neigh- dog kennels. $35 each; the “Sale...Or” column, 96cc Screaming Eagle En- shape ready to go. Over- home in West Lauderdale borhood, walkway to soccer clean, never used. Call e-mail adam.prince@ gine. Excellent condition. seas move forcing sale. school district. $78,500. and softball complex in sub- 601-482-2276. navy.mil. Deadline is Asking $10,500. Call 601- Make offer ready to deal! Call Chris or Brooke at 662- division. Asking $310,000. Two horse trailer, needs 527-4981. Call Ben at 843-597-4221. 364-1745 or 601-938-6067 Call 601-917-0379. painting, but has a good the Thursday prior to 2010 Polaris Ranger for more details or to book publication.

Listings in the “Sale...Or” column are free for anyone who works at NAS Meridian. You can purchase an ad for a business or organization in “The Skyline,” by calling The Meridian Star at 601-693-1551 -- ask for Advertising or email: [email protected] 8 The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 Arlington National Cemetery to expand

By Claudette Roulo DoD News, Defense Media Activity

Work is expected to begin next year on a long-planned expansion of Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, the cemetery’s executive director told Congress. The cemetery now occupies about 625 acres of land near the nation’s capital and is the final resting place of more than 400,000 service members and their family members. But, after more than 150 years of service, the cemetery is running out of room. “The expansion will add 37 acres of burial space and extend the cemetery’s active life,” Karen Durham-Aguilera said during a hearing of the House Appropriations Commit- tee’s subcommittee on military construction, veterans affairs and related agencies. Arlington National Cemetery lies on the former Arling- ton Estate — land that once belonged to George Washington Parke Custis, grandson of Martha Washington and step- grandson of George Washington. By the start of the Civil War, the property had passed into the family of Robert E. Lee through marriage. In May 1861, Union troops occupied the estate after the Lee family fled south. The property served as a Union Army camp and head- quarters throughout the war, and starting in 1863, as the site of Freedman’s Village, a home for freed slaves that provided housing, education, training and medical care to help U.S. Army graphic former slaves transition to freedom. A graphic illustration showing the proposed expansion of Arlington National Cemetery. Today, the cemetery The first military burial at Arlington, for William Henry holds funeral services Monday through Saturday (except federal holidays), conducting between 27 and 30 Christman, was made on May 13, 1864. By war’s end, more services each week day and between six and eight services each Saturday. Information on burial eligibility and than 16,000 soldiers had been buried there. military honors is available on the cemetery’s website.

NETC announces FY-20 advanced education voucher program for senior enlisted

The Naval Education and Training Command For the Master’s program, degrees considered in- (NETC) announced March 15 the FY-20 Advanced clude: Education Voucher (AEV) program. a Emergency and Disaster Management The AEV program provides financial assistance to a Human Resources selected senior enlisted personnel (E7-E9) to complete a Project Management post-secondary, Navy-relevant degrees through off- a Engineering an d Technology duty education. a Systems Analysis “The AEV program supports the contin- a Information Technology ued educational development of senior a Homeland Defense and Security enlisted leaders to support the Navy a Leadership and managem4ent our Nation needs,” said Senior a Business Administration Chief Machinists Mate Joshua a Education and Training Rice, NETC AEV program man- Management Photo by MCSA Sam Tyson ager. “The program provides the Degree programs other Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Alixander Fleeman blows the Navy’s chief, senior chief and than those listed above must boatswain’s pipe to signal underway on the bridge aboard master chief petty officers a plat- be validated as a Navy-rel- the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN form to pursue higher education evant degree by the NETC 75). Harry S. Truman departed Naval Station Norfolk after a that makes them more effective AEV program manager. three-month availability period used to upgrade systems, leaders along with enhancing conduct maintenance, and provide targeted training. Harry their technical competencies in How much funding is pro- S. Truman is currently underway conducting an indepen- our ever-changing operational vided? dent steaming exercise to increase crew proficiency and environments.” Participants in the AEV Program maintain operational readiness. will be provided funds for tuition, Who is eligible? books, and related fees for completion Applicants must be top performing ac- of their advanced degrees within the fol- Truman gets back to sea tive-duty senior enlisted personnel (E7-E9) who are lowing limits: transferring to, or currently on shore duty with suf- a Baccalaureate degree: Funding limits are a max- By MC3 Adelola Tinubu ficient time ashore to complete a baccalaureate or imum of $6,700 per fiscal year for up to 36 months USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Public Affairs master’s degree program. Applicants on sea duty may from the date of signing a letter of acceptance, not to apply provided they submit an education plan that exceed $20,000 total program cost. The Nimitz Class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman shows the ability to complete the degree program as a Master’s degree: Funding limits are a maximum of (CVN 75) departed Naval Station Norfolk, March 16, fol- specified above. $20,000 per fiscal year for up to 24 months from the lowing a three-month availability period used to upgrade date of signing a letter of acceptance, not to exceed systems, conduct maintenance, and provide targeted train- How many quotas are available? $40,000 total program cost. ing. The AEV program has 10 quotas -- five bachelor “Our team is excited to do what we do best — conduct degrees and five master degrees -- available for FY-20. When does the program begin? operations at sea,” said Harry S. Truman Commanding Of- Applicants should be available to commence their ficer, Capt. Nick Dienna. “Routine training evolutions like What Navy-relevant degrees will be considered for studies in the 2019 fall term (after Oct. 1, 2019). this help us build on the success of our last deployment, the AEV program? strengthening our fundamentals and improving our techni- For the Baccalaureate program, degrees consid- Is there a service obligation? cal expertise.” ered include: Participants shall agree to remain on active-duty Harry S. Truman returned to its homeport in Norfolk a Strategic Foreign Languages for a period equal to three times the number of months Dec. 16 following an eight-month deployment — the first a Construction Management of education completed or three years, whichever is ship to exercise the Navy’s Dynamic Force Employment a Emergency and Disaster Management less. strategy. Following this successful deployment and a year a Human Resources of sustained excellence, Harry S. Truman was recognized a Paralegal, Leadership and management What is the submission deadline? as the East Coast’s CY2018 Aircraft Carrier Battle Effec- Engineering Deadline for applying for the FY-20 AEV program tiveness (Battle “E”) Award winner. a Information Technology is May 24, 2019. Applications should be sent to Naval Harry S. Truman is currently underway conducting an a Nursing Education and Training Command (N523), 250 Dallas independent streaming exercise. During this underway a Business Administration Street, Pensacola, FL, 32508-5220. period, the crew will execute several ship-based training a Electrical and Electronic Technology --From NETC Public Affairs evolutions and drills to maintain proficiency, and will also conduct carrier qualifications for Norfolk-based C2 Grey- hound aircraft. The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019 9

This week we asked children from the SAC, “What’s your favorite thing about Spring?” IT’S YOUR TURN... By Adam Prince

Aiden Landers Davis Lepicier Jordan Bland Alexander Lepicier Kaylyn Hodge 8 years old 9 years old 5 years old 6 years old 10 years old

“I get to enjoy Spring “No school and I can enjoy “I can play more outside on “More time outside.” “It’s sunny all the time and Break at SAC.” the warmer weather.” the playground.” it gets dark later.”

Fleet & Family Support Center Family financial planning FFSC Briefs Most families have a vision for their future. It your financial plan to work if you have or continue to might include buying a home, starting a new career accumulate debt from credit cards or other high inter- To register for any of the following workshops, please after military service, sending the kids to college and est loans. Your first priority should be to reduce and call the FFSC at 601-679-2360. The class may not be retiring comfortably. But how many of us have a com- eventually eliminate this debt so that more of your presented if no one registers, so make sure you call prehensive plan for how we will achieve our vision? income can be applied to saving and investing for the if you’re interested! Can’t make the scheduled time? Financial planning is an important undertaking dur- future. Call anyway - the workshop facilitator may be able to ing each phase of a family’s life to make sure visions a Building up an emergency fund - Many financial work with you one-on-one, give you materials, or let turn into reality. advisors recommend hav- you know when the class will be offered again. All Military families ing three to six months classes held at FFSC (Building 405) unless otherwise rarely have the finan- of your normal income noted cial means to achieve in an account that’s their visions for the safe and liquid. This Time Management future without mak- account should only ing trade-offs and sac- be used to cover un- March 27 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. or rifices. A comprehen- foreseen financial 3:30-4:30 p.m. sive financial plan is a emergencies and as Do you often think that there just aren’t framework to organize a place to save for all the pieces of your planned major ex- enough hours in the day to get everything financial life (income, penses. done? Do you frequently feel harried and assets, liabilities, etc.) a Saving and in- stressed as you run from place to place in a way that brings vesting for college - If your goals and the you envision paying for and task to task? If so, you might need choices you will have to college in the future, it’s to learn some new ways to manage that make to achieve them into sharp focus. The earlier important to have a good understanding of the cost precious resource – TIME! This workshop you start to plan for your financial future, the fewer and the ways you can lower expenses, such as begin- difficult choices you may have to make. ning a 529 college savings plan. Financing a college will focus on learning to maximize use education is a goal you can start planning for as soon of your time and how to better schedule A good financial plan will: as a child is born. all the things going on in your life so you aProvide a clear picture of your current financial a Saving and investing for retirement - A compre- situation hensive financial plan should address retirement, don’t feel so crunched. Make sure to aEstablish and prioritize your financial goals and even when it seems very far off. Service members can schedule time for “Time Management.” the timeframes for achieving them participate in one or both of the Thrift Savings Plan aIdentify strategies you will use to address weak- options (traditional or Roth TSP), which make saving nesses in your financial situation and build on its for retirement easy. Many military spouses work for Welcome Aboard strengths employers that match contributions to a 401(k) plan. April 2 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. aIdentify the financial products or services you will Any employer-sponsored retirement program that of- FFSC welcomes you to Meridian by use to help you achieve your goals fers tax advantages or matching contributions is a Financial planning does not end once your plan has smart way to invest in having a comfortable retire- providing current information and policies been created. Because life happens, you can expect to ment. regarding NAS. Topics covered will modify your plan as new or unforeseen circumstances a Providing for your family in the event of death - include: Navy career choices, FFSC affect your family’s financial situation - an extended As a service member or veteran, you have the benefit illness, birth of a child or job loss, for example. Maybe of low-cost group life insurance through the govern- services, Suicide Prevention, Medical, your goals and time horizons change, or perhaps fluc- ment. For all of your family’s insurance requirements Dental, Exceptional Family Member (EFM) tuations in the economy or tax laws make a positive at each stage of life, your planning task will be to Program, TRICARE, vehicle registration, or negative impact on your resources. It’s a good idea select the amount of coverage that best meets your to review your financial plan each year to make sure needs for the least cost. on- & off-base driving regulations, legal it continues to support your vision and goals. As you learn more about financial planning, you services, community services, Chapel & may realize that you need further assistance. The other religious services, MWR, things to The typical financial plan will address several broad FFSC can provide help with all aspects of your finan- areas that encompass most families’ specific goals cial planning. Call 601-679-2360 to schedule an ap- do at NAS & in Meridian, and more! for the future they envision: pointment for more information. a Reducing debt - It is much more difficult to put --From FFSC Transition GPS Capstone April 4 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Ninety days before their separation Five things you should know about the new DOD policy on Military from military service, service members Service by Transgender Persons and Persons with Gender Dysphoria will participate in a CAPSTONE event, which will verify that transitioning service 1. The new DOD policy doesn’t ban transgender indi- unwilling or unable to meet the standards associated members completed the Transition viduals from service. A transgender person is someone with their biological sex, could adversely impact unit GPS curriculum and achieved Career who identifies as a gender other than his or her biological readiness and combat effectiveness. sex. For example, a person who is biologically male but 4. Gender dysphoria is a medical condition. Trans- Readiness Standards. Service members identifies as female may identify as transgender. gender individuals identify as a gender other than their who require additional assistance will Transgender individuals are not excluded from mili- biological sex. For some, the difference between their bi- be referred to supplemental training tary service, and DOD policy specifically prohibits dis- ological sex and their gender identity can manifest itself crimination based on gender identity. But all persons, in a condition called “gender dysphoria.” opportunities. In addition, through the whether or not they are transgender, must meet all mili- Gender dysphoria is a marked incongruence between CAPSTONE event, all service members tary standards, including the standards associated with one’s self-identified gender and one’s biological sex. And will be offered a ‘warm handover’ to their biological sex. Waivers or exceptions to these stan- that incongruence has to be so great that it causes clini- dards may be granted on a case-by-case basis. cally significant distress or impairment in social, occu- appropriate government agencies and 2. Transgender service members may continue to pational, and other important areas of functioning. It’s organizations that will be able to provide serve. Service members who joined the military in their a recognized medical condition that if a patient comes in them continued benefits, services, and preferred gender or were diagnosed with gender dyspho- and sees a doctor and explains their symptoms, they can ria before the 2018 policy takes effect are exempt from be diagnosed with gender dysphoria. support as veterans. See your command the new policy and may serve in their preferred gender. For some individuals, gender dysphoria can be allevi- career counselor for more information. Many transgender individuals already are serving hon- ated through counseling. But for others, the treatment orably in uniform. Some are serving in their preferred for gender dysphoria may include gender transition, gender, and many others are serving in their biological which may involve living socially as the opposite gender IA Discussion Group sex. without any anatomical changes or receiving hormone April 4 from 11 a.m.-noon 3. The new policy is focused on enhancing readiness, treatment or sex reassignment surgery. FFSC hosts this IA Spouse Discussion and comes after consultation with military and medical 5. The new DOD policy eliminates special accommo- experts. To maintain a military force that is worldwide dations that were provided to persons with gender dys- Group over coffee (or tea). Join other deployable and combat effective, the military must set phoria but not to others. military spouses to talk about the high standards, and all military members must sacrifice The 2018 DOD policy eliminates this disparity. Indi- challenges of IA deployment, share to meet these standards. In fact, just over 70 percent of viduals who have undergone either hormone therapy or prime military-age Americans cannot meet the military’s sex reassignment surgery for gender dysphoria will no survival tips, discuss the impact of standards. Anyone who meets military standards with- longer be able to join the military without a waiver. deployment on children, remind one out special accommodations can and should be able to Second, under the 2016 policy, all service members, in- another about the benefits of deployment, serve — this includes transgender persons. cluding transgender service members, must adhere to Persons with a history of gender dysphoria — a serious the standards associated with their biological sex unless or just kick back & chat! medical condition — and who have undergone certain they are diagnosed with gender dysphoria and undergo medical treatment for gender dysphoria, such as cross- gender transition. sex hormone therapy or sex reassignment surgery, or are --From DoD News, Defense Meidia Activity 10 The Skyline ~ March 21, 2019

=Budget =Jet “A lot of work went into making sure all the This year’s budget takes a balanced approach to force struc- Two options were presented to higher head- stripes were parallel to the long axis of the air- ture growth by making targeted investments in readiness and ca- quarters at Commander, Naval Air Training, for craft,” Hook said. “I wanted to make sure that pabilities. The FY20 budget not only supports more ships, subma- consideration. After incorporating input from the everything was shooting forward to really empha- rines, aircraft, people and additional special operations forces but safety and maintenance sides of the house the cur- size the speed and direction of the aircraft.” also provides the right mix of small and large surface combatants, rent design was accepted. The jet was painted by a team of painters submarines, aircraft and unmanned platforms needed to meet the The main design element for the jet is obvious- onboard NAS Meridian led by Rich Gable. They requirements of combatant commanders. ly the tail design which is a deconstruction of the included Tim Hagan, John Clayton, Leo Winford The budget provides for a deployable battle force of 301 ships 13-star flag and is intended to communicate speed and Michael Dunehew. “They did a bang up job, in FY20. This supports 11 aircraft carriers and 10 big deck am- and aggression. The circle of stars is dragged back- and we couldn’t be happier with the work they phibious ships that serve as the foundation upon which the Na- wards off of the blue field as if the speed of the jet did,” said Hook, who is a reservist on long term vy’s carrier and amphibious ready groups are based. This year’s is outstripping the flag. The other design elements orders to TW-1 where he is serving as the assis- budget request funds 12 new-construction battle force ships in on the jet are used to balance out the design on the tant officer-in-charge of the Fixed-wing Instructor FY20, including one aircraft carrier (CVN), three Nuclear Attack tail. Training Unit. Submarines (SSNs), three guided-missile destroyers (DDGs), one future guided-missile frigate (FFG(X)), two Fleet Replenishment Oilers (T-AOs) and two Towing, Salvage and Rescue ships (T- ATSs), as well as two Large Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs); and, 55 battle force ships/10 Large USVs across the Future Years Defense Program (FYDP). Department of Labor-Veterans’ Employment A talented, driven and well-trained military and civilian workforce is essential for warfighting success, and the Navy’s most and Training Services Military Spouse Page critical asset is its dedicated personnel. This year’s budget supports an increase in end strength by 5,100 in FY20, and allows for a 3.1 percent pay raise to better support quality of life for Sailors, Military Spouses are the unsung heroes of our military. Yet too Marines and their families, in alignment with the Employment often they are not recognized for their critical role in ensuring the Cost Index. The re-emergence of great power competition demands that warfighter can do his or her job. In recognition of the employment the Navy invests in superior, innovative and leap-ahead technolo- challenges that many military spouses encounter, DOL created a gies to increase lethality. The Navy cannot expect success fight- ing tomorrow’s conflicts with yesterday’s weapons. To maintain great new tool that allows a spouse to quickly locate licensing and a competitive advantage, this year’s budget targets the develop- credential information nationwide Please visit this website https:// ment of long-range hypersonic strike, unmanned aircraft and vessels, and additional capabilities aligned with the Future Force. www.veterans.gov/milspouses/ In this year’s budget, Research & Development increases 9.5 percent over FY19, supporting innovative capabilities in shipbuilding, Columbia-class development, aviation (F-35), weapons, Military spouses can search directly on the portal for guidelines and hypersonics, NextGen Jammer, unmanned systems, Navy laser family of systems, digital warfare, applied artificial intelligence state laws on professional licensing, including information on how and big-data analytics. These technological advancements are occupational licenses from one state can be recognized in another. crucial to maintaining the Navy’s competitive advantage. Networked forces that protect, collect and share information The page features a map that highlights which states offer temporary enable increased readiness and lethality. The budget request pri- licensing, expedited licensing, or licensure by endorsement for oritizes the development of resilient, survivable, federated net- works and information ecosystems from the tactical level up to relocating spouses. strategic planning. A healthy industrial base is a key enabler of Navy readiness, and this year’s budget submission supports industry by provid- Military spouses can also find specific points of contact for each ing the consistency and predictability needed to retain the highly licensing board with the state they are moving to. Providing them a skilled workers who fulfill shipbuilding orders efficiently and af- fordably. direct contact to ensure smooth transition of their license. Continuing to minimize the backlog of deferred readiness, pro- curement and modernization is also a priority for this year’s budget, which requests funding for increased training and flight As we continue to combat the ~16 percent unemployment rate hours. In addition to supporting the Navy’s critical personnel, plat- among military spouses — four times the rate of veterans— we look forms and programs, the FY20 budget demonstrates the Depart- forward to your input and recommendations on the website and our ment of the Navy’s (DON) commitment to reforming business processes and driving efficiencies to increase speed, improve value ongoing efforts. and support the warfighter. The budget provides funding in support of adopting agile business models and technologies, removing layers of overhead, flattening organizations, and applying data- For any questions or comments, please contact Michael Stoddard, at driven decision making helps the Fleet build readiness. [email protected] or 202-693-8143. --From the Office of the Navy Chief of Information

the Meridian Star Congratulations Martha (Marti) Pulido Honoring Outstanding Teachers and Educators February 2019 in East Mississippi and Teacher of the Month Ross Collins Career and West Alabama Technical Center

LaBiche Jewelers - Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company 210627-1 To nominate a teacher, log on to wmdn.net, wgbctv.com, goldenappleawards.com or meridianstar.com