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Serving the Hampton Roads Navy Family Vol. 18, No. 22, Norfolk, VA FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM June 3, 2010 Gates addresses troops on A seven man visit, board, search and seizure team ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal from USS Elrod (FFG 55) conducts a consensual BY JIM been in effect since 1994. boarding on a ridged hull GARAMONE “Key to successful repeal will infl atable boat to verify American the vessel’s registration be the ongoing Defense Depart- Forces Press ment review, and as such, I am and country of origin, May Service 25. Elrod encountered grateful that the amendments the three suspected WASH- … will ensure that the Depart- drug smugglers off the INGTON ment of Defense can complete coast of Morocco in — Defense that comprehensive review international waters in the Secretary that will allow our military and Western Mediterranean Defense Secretary Robert M. Robert M. Gates their families the opportunity Sea while conducting Gates told to inform and shape the imple- routine operations in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of troops worldwide, May 28, that mentation process,” he said in a operations. any repeal of the so-called “Don’t written statement released by the Ask, Don’t Tell” law will be de- White House May 27. U.S. Navy photo layed until the ongoing Defense Obama said being the com- Department high-level review is mander in chief is his greatest USS Elrod encounters suspected completed and only after he, the honor. “This legislation will help president and the chairman of the make our armed forces even Joint Chiefs of Staff all can certi- stronger and more inclusive by drug smugglers in Mediterranean fy that the department is ready to allowing gay and lesbian soldiers PRESS RELEASE make the change without hurting to serve honestly and with integ- Commander, U.S. Naval Forces individuals discarding multiple vessel’s registration and coun- unit cohesion, military readiness, rity,” he said. Europe-Commander, U.S. Naval packages into the sea from their try of origin. Upon discovering military effectiveness and re- Any change in the law will take Forces Africa Public Affairs ridged hull infl atable boat (RHIB). the suspected smugglers were cruiting and retention. time, Gates said in his recorded The helicopter relayed the in- from Morocco, the ship notifi ed Gates recorded a special mes- message. “The legislative pro- NAPLES, Italy — USS Elrod formation to Elrod, which then Moroccan authorities and loi- sage that will be broadcasted on cess is long and complex,” he (FFG 55) encountered three sus- altered course and attempted to es- tered nearby until a transfer of the American Forces Radio and said. “While it appears likely that pected drug smugglers off the tablish radio communication with the suspected smugglers could Television Service and the Pen- Congress will eventually change coast of Morocco in international the unknown RHIB. Upon arrival, be facilitated. Elrod has since tagon Channel to speak directly the ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ law, we waters in the Western Mediterra- a search and rescue swimmer was coordinated with Moroccan au- to service members and their do not expect the legislation that nean Sea, May 25, while conducting deployed and recovered several thorities who apprehended the families about the moves toward would do this to be presented routine operations in the U.S. Sixth packages, two of which tested posi- suspected drug smugglers. repeal of the law that bars gay to the president for months – Fleet area of operations. tive for narcotics. Elrod, an Oliver Hazard Perry- men and lesbians from serving perhaps not until the end of the At approximately 8 p.m., while A seven man visit, board, class Frigate homeported out of openly in the military. year.” conducting a surface search mis- search, and seizure (VBSS) team Norfolk, is on a regularly sched- “There’s been a lot of politi- The amendment is the result sion, a SH-60B Seahawk helicopter conducted a consensual board- uled deployment in the U.S. Sixth cal posturing and maneuvering of a compromise worked out be- assigned to Elrod spotted three ing on the RHIB to verify the Fleet area of operations. on this issue and the secretary tween the administration and wanted to communicate directly Congress. It allows the military to the troops about what this all to revoke the “Don’t Ask, Don’t MEMORIAL DAY 2010 means to them,” Pentagon Press Tell” provisions 60 days after a said Secretary Geoff Morrell. military study group chaired by “He wanted to make it clear that Jeh C. Johnson, the Defense De- the department’s review of how partment’s general counsel, and Thousands of to smartly implement a change Army Gen. Carter F. Ham, com- motorcyclists gather in the law is more important than mander of U.S. Army Europe, in the north parking ever and their participation in it presents its report in Decem- lot of the Pentagon is absolutely critical to its suc- ber. in Washington, D.C. cess.” The legislation is a deferred re- for the annual Rolling Thunder Memorial Day The House of Representatives peal, Gates stressed. “It would weekend ride, May passed an amendment to the Na- repeal ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,’ but 30. The event aims to tional Defense Authorization Bill, only after – I repeat, after – the raise awareness for May 27, that would allow gay men ongoing Department of Defense the needs of veterans, and lesbians to serve openly. The high-level review is completed, prisoners of war and Senate Armed Services Commit- and only after the president, the those still missing in tee passed a similar amendment. chairman of the Joint Chiefs of action. President Barack Obama said Staff and I all can certify that we he is pleased with the congressio- are ready to make this change See A4 for more coverage on this nal actions. He has long favored event. repealing the law, in which has See REPEAL A11 Photo by Fred W. Baker III

Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel, Commander Navy Region Mid Atlantic, speaks at a reenlistment ceremony at the World Trade Center site during the 23rd annual Fleet Week New York, May 27. Approximately 3,000 Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen are participated in the 23rd Fleet Week New York, which took place May 26 - June 2. Fleet Week has been New York City’s celebration of the sea services since 1984. It is an unparalleled opportunity for citizens of New York and the surrounding tri- state area to meet Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen, as well as see, fi rst- hand, the latest capabilities of today’s maritime services. Photo by MCSN Scott Pittman Sailors renew their commitment to country at World Trade Center site

BY MC1 (SW/AW) W. B. SWOBODA Sailors from various commands The 20 Sailors reenlisting and “Being a HM, I was touched to today’s maritime services. Navy Public Affairs Support participating in Fleet Week were six offi cers receiving their pro- reenlist at the World Trade Cen- Approximately 3,000 Sailors, Element, East reenlisted by Commander, Navy motion had family and friends on ter site.” Marines and Coast Guardsmen NEW YORK — A promotion Region Mid-Atlantic, Rear Adm. hand to witness this special time Fleet Week New York is an are participated in the 23rd com- and reenlistment ceremony was Mark S. Boensel. in their careers. annual celebration of the sea memoration of Fleet Week New held at the World Trade Center “It’s a privilege to be here at the “Reenlisting for the fi rst time; services that began in 1984. It York. (WTC) site for Sailors of all ranks World Trade Center,” said Boen- at this site, is a reaffi rmation of provides an opportunity for the For more news from Command- participating in Fleet Week New sel. “It is an honor to do this today my commitment to my country, citizens of New York City and er Navy Region Mid Atlantic, visit York 2010, May 27. and of all places this site which is family and friends,” said Hospital the surrounding tri-state area to www.navy.mil/local/cnrma. During the ceremony, six com- now synonymous in America, to Corpsman 3rd Class Lashaun- meet Sailors, Marines and Coast missioned offi cers received a have Sailors agree to renew the da Guy, of Cleveland, stationed Guardsmen, as well as see, fi rst- See A8 for more coverage from promotion and more than a dozen commitment to the nation.” aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7). hand, the latest capabilities of FLEET WEEK NEW YORK 2010

INSIDE: FLEET WEEK NEW YORK A8 FRONT AND CENTER B1 OFF DUTY C1 USO hosts ‘A Swingin NCAA football coaches Scion hosts ‘Battle of Salute to Our Troops’ visit USS Eisenhower the Builds’ for military Sailors, Marines and Coast Four Division I football coaches Unique car customization Guardsmen danced the night visited Sailors as part of USO- challenge strictly for active away with Paris Hilton. sponsored 2010 Coaches Tour. duty military personnel. NNMC promotes safety during

Commander Navy Region ‘101 Critical Days of Summer’ Mid-Atlantic is: Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel BY MCSN assessment offi cer for many hours behind the The Flagship® is produced by ALEXANDRA SNOW NNMC’s Security depart- wheel – the average dis- Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic National Naval Medical Center staff. The editorial content of this newspaper ment. While people are out tance for a summer trip is Public Affairs and any supplement is prepared, edited driving more, they are also usually about 250 miles and and provided by the public affairs offi ce of Commander Navy Region Mid- Atlantic. BETHESDA, Md. — having more outdoor cook- people often try to cover as Regional program manager for Memorial Day kicked off outs and get-togethers. much distance as they can Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic is “101 Critical Days of Sum- “They start to unwind, as quickly as possible. Public Affairs Director mer” and National Naval summer’s here, and one “Supervisors can be proac- Beth Baker Medical Center (NNMC) is beer turns into 10 beers tive, fi nding out where their Editorial Staff focused on decreasing the and then all of the (staff members) are going, Managing Editor heightened risk of accidents, sudden you’re and making sure they’re not Micheal Mink mishaps and fatalities dur- trying to rush to their desti- Deputy Managing Editor ing this season, which nation,” said Garcia. MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford ends Labor Day. Hebron added Editorial Assistant The summer that people are of- MC3 Samantha Robinett months are more ten in a hurry Graphic Designer dangerous in and forget to David Todd terms of buckle up, and Off Duty Editor / Designer safety accident-relat- Tim Rafalski hazards. ed injuries The Flagship® is an authorized One of are worse publication for members of the military the for services and their families. Its contents do not necessarily refl ect the offi cial views of most those the U.S. government, the Department of com- who Defense, the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps and do not imply endorsement mon aren’t thereof. risk fac- wearing The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts tors is a seat belt. or supplements, does not constitute alcohol, said Some of it is endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Navy or Marine Corps, Kevin Garcia, being careless Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or occupation- … a lot of peo- Flagship, Inc. of the products and services advertised. al safety and ple are rushing Everything advertised in The Flagship® health spe- when they’re shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, cialist at the National going to family functions,” color, religion, gender, national origin, age, Naval Medical Center. After said Hebron. marital status, physical handicap, political affi liation or any other nonmerit factor of the a long winter, people tend to “If you aren’t wearing a purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or get out more often to enjoy seat belt when the airbag rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confi rmed, the publisher the heat. The warm weath- deploys, you get beat up shall refuse to print advertising from that er also becomes a factor in getting behind the wheel of by the airbag itself.” source until the violation is corrected. The Flagship® is published by Flagship, Inc., a that it dehydrates people a car and driving home,” He- During this time of subsidiary of Landmark Communications, quicker; thus, increasing bron said. “If you’re going year, accidents also oc- Inc., a private fi rm in no way connected with the Department of Defense, the the odds of getting injured to drink, have a designat- cur frequently as a result U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps, under in an alcohol-related acci- ed driver. If you’re hosting of playing outdoor sports, exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy. Questions or comments can be directed dent. a party, you’re there to help boating accidents and to the public affairs offi cer or the editor. The “People have been in- keep people from drinking home repairs, said Garcia. Flagship® can be reached at 322-2865 (editor), 322-2864 (assistant editor). The fax doors for months. When the and driving.” “Mishaps are prevent- number is 445-1953 or write Commander, weather improves, they’re The host is just as respon- able, accidents are not. We Navy Region, Mid-Atlantic, The Flagship®, 1510 Gilbert St., Norfolk, VA 23511-2737. taking long trips, they’re sible as their guest who can never see accidents All news releases should be sent to this engaging in recreation- causes an accident after coming, but we can prevent address. Stories may be submitted via e-mail to news@fl agshipnews.com. You al activities,” said Garcia. driving away from the party mishaps,” said Garcia. can visit The Flagship’s Web site at www. “The numbers spike every drunk, he said. When host- For more information fl agshipnews.com. The Flagship® is published every year for mishaps.” ing a party where drinking about summer safety tips, vis- Thursday by Flagship, Inc., whose offi ces Last year, 24 Sailors and is involved, he encourages it www.safetycenter.navy.mil. are at 150 W. Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23510. Minimum weekly circulation is 15 Marines died during the people to make sure food is There, travelers can fi nd a 45,000. summer months. served to help absorb the link to a risk-assessment tool, Flagship, Inc. “It’s never one thing, alcohol. There should also the Travel Risk Planning Sys- General Manager Laura Baxter, 222-3964 it’s usually a combination be plenty of non-alcoholic tem. Sailors and Marines of factors,” said Garcia, beverages available. can use this feature to help Creative Director Tricia Lieurance, 222-3968 including alcohol, dehydra- Not only are people en- them recognize and avoid the tion and fatigue. “The heat joying the weather at home hazards they could face on Free Classifi ed Advertising, 222-3967 affects people differently.” more, they spend more their trip, such as not wear- Distribution, 446-2881 Drinking and driving time on the road driving. ing a seatbelt. Home Delivery, 222-3965 is another common dan- Garcia added that this For more news from © 2009 Flagship, Inc. All rights reserved. ger this time of year, said causes a concern for fa- National Naval Medical Chief Master-at-Arms Rob- tigued driving because Center, visit www.navy.mil/ ert Hebron, training and people tend to spend too local/nnmc/. THE FLAGSHIP’S LEEWARD SHOUT What do you think is the importance of having Fleet Week New York?

Lance Cpl. Master At Arms 2nd Class Capt. Marine Science Technician 2nd Keith Powers Vernard Harston Dan Burque Class Michael Lee Navy Public Affairs Support Element Naval Operational Support Center Offi ce of Naval Research, U.S. Coast Guard East Greensboro, North Carolina Arlington “I think Fleet Week is important “I love Fleet Week because I “Fleet Week is an excellent “Fleet Week has been very for all services because it get to meet new people and opportunity to get the Navy positive. It gives us a view brings a kind of fellowship interact with the residents and other services in the of the general public. It and excitement that you don’t and tourists and I am looking public eye. It also allows is chaotic, but it is very normally get with being in the forward to many future Fleet them to interact with families rewarding.”.” military.” Weeks.” and show our appreciation.”

Brought to you by For the latest weather updates and up-to-the-minute weather alerts, go to www.wtkr.com/weather World War II SUBVETS memorial service held

Vice Adm. Jay Donnelly, Commander, Submarine Forces, greets Pete Sococo prior to the start of the World War II Submarine Veterans Memorial Service. Sococo is a 31-year submarine service veteran who conducted 16 different submarine patrols during World War II and is currently the oldest qualified submariner in the Hampton Roads area.

Photos by MC1 Todd A. Schaffer More than 100 submarine veterans, active duty Sailors, spouses and visitors attended the World War II Submarine Veterans Memorial Service held at the Submarine Learning Facility on Naval Station Norfolk. BY KEVIN COPELAND today and their families have marine veterans of the United Commander, Submarine Forces/ Commander, Submarine Force, personified that fighting spirit. States both past and present,” Atlantic Public Affairs You have shared your stories to said Corey. “This ceremony help us, the submariners who shows all of them how we feel NORFOLK — The annual follow in your footsteps, to un- about the contributions they Submarine Veterans of World derstand the sacrifices required have made to this great coun- War II Memorial Service was to defend freedom and democ- try and that they will always conducted, May 27, at the racy and to remember those be remembered as part of the Submarine Learning Facility who made the ultimate sac- greatest generation of Ameri- (SUBLRNFAC), Naval Station rifice for our nation. We can cans to serve.” Norfolk. Hosted by SUBLRN- not thank you enough for your Fire Control Technician (sub- FAC, the event is held each year service and your continued con- marines) Justin McElwee, Submarine veterans salute as the colors are paraded during the World War prior to Memorial Day. tribution to our nation.” coordinator of the 2010 event, II Submarine Veterans Memorial Service held at the Submarine Learning Facility on Naval Station Norfolk. The service honored the 52 The guest speaker was Mas- echoed Corey’s sentiments. submarines and the gallant Sail- ter Chief Torpedoman’s Mate “It is a great honor and a submarine to be inducted into States instantly gained the most ors lost during World War II, and (submarines) Rich Corey, U.S. privilege to be the coordina- the Hall of Fame. Selection powerful deterrent force imag- the losses of the USS Thresher Navy (Ret.). In 1972, he was tor for the Submarine Veterans is merited by the submarine’s inable – a stealth platform with (SSN 593), April 10, 1963, and the first Sailor selected as the of World War II Memorial Ser- contribution to national securi- enormous nuclear firepower.” the USS Scorpion (SSN 589), Commander, Submarine Force, vice this year. Honoring those ty and selection is conducted by The ship was decommis- May 22, 1968. Atlantic and Atlantic Fleet Sail- who have gone before us is the Hampton Roads Chapter of sioned on January 24, 1985, but Cmdr. Albert Onley, SUBL- or of the Year in 1972. Corey extremely important, so that the U.S. Submarine Veterans or- prior to disposal the ship’s sail RNFAC commanding officer, is also a former crew member we never forget the ultimate ganization. was removed and is currently welcomed more than 100 vet- of the USS George Washington sacrifice made by the brave “George Washington was com- memorialized in New London, erans, active duty Sailors, (SSBN 598), which was chosen submariners who died defend- missioned December 30, 1959, Conn. spouses, and visitors. to be inducted into the Sub- ing our freedom. From talking as the world’s first nuclear- Distinguished visitors includ- “My favorite stanza in the marine Hall of Fame after the to some of the submarine veter- powered Fleet Ballistic Missile ed Vice Adm. John J. Donnelly, Sailor’s Creed says ‘I represent ceremony. ans, this ceremony holds great submarine,” said Corey. “Argu- Commander, Submarine Forc- the fighting spirit of the Navy “This year marks the 110th meaning not only to them but ably, it can be considered the es, and John Panneton, Military and those who have gone be- anniversary of our submarine also to the families of our fallen submarine that had the great- Liaison for Congressman Glenn fore me to defend freedom and force, so it’s a great honor and brethren.” est influence on world events Nye (D-VA-2nd) and former na- democracy around the world’,” pleasure to stand before you Following the service, George in the 20th Century. With its tional president of the Navy said Onley. “The veterans here today and pay tribute to all sub- Washington became the 12th entry into service, the United League of the United States. MEMORIAL DAY 2010 ‘Ride For Freedom’ concludes Rolling Thunder 2010 PRESS RELEASE From Defense Media Activity- Anacostia

WASHINGTON — An estimated 80,000 motorcy- cle enthusiasts affiliated with Rolling Thunder, Inc., com- pleted the annual Memorial Day weekend “Ride For Free- dom” from the Pentagon to the Washington Monument May 30, an event designed to recognize service members past and present. Rolling Thunder, Inc., is a nonprofit nationwide organi- zation dedicated to increasing awareness for United States Prisoner of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA) con- cerns, “Ride For Freedom” par- ticipants, many of whom Photo by MC1 Bruce Cummins ventured thousands of miles Lt. Cmdr. Pete Zaleski (Ret.) renders a salute during colors at the Rolling Thunder wreath-laying – coming from as far away as ceremony at the U.S. Navy Memorial. This event and the May 30 Rolling Thunder motorcycle Montreal and San Francisco procession from the Pentagon to the Washington Monument is designed to honor service – to participate in the event, members classified as Prisoners of War or Missing in Action, as well as recognizing American included former Chairman veterans from all wars. of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marines actively engaged in United States Air Force Gen. military operations around (Ret.) Richard B. Myers; for- the world today. Photo by MC3 Timothy Wilson mer commanding officer of “The men and wom- A Scottish drummer from the Rolling Thunder motorcycle organization watches as riders enter the National Naval USS Cole (DDG 67) during en on active duty who are Medical Center during a Memorial Day tribute to wounded the Oct. 12, 2000 Al-Qaeda at- doing what they do – wheth- warriors recovering at the hospital. tack on the ship Cmdr. (Ret.) er in Afghanistan or Iraq, Kirk Lippold; and singer and whether stationed in DC and Executive Director for- small way we can contribute entertainer Nancy Sinatra, a or wherever – they’re put- mer Army Sgt. Artie Muller to those who have made the guest of honor at the event. ting their lives on the line said the event serves to bring ultimate commitment to their While the “Ride For Free- on a daily basis and protect- members together, as well as nation and in some cases pay dom” remains the event’s ing our freedom and way of demonstrate that the organi- the ultimate sacrifice in ser- centerpiece, numerous oth- life and we’re going to do zation ensures their cause is vice to their country.” er activities – including whatever we can to protect recognized. Myers, the United States remarks from Sinatra, dance them,” he said. “We want to “These people are like my highest ranking uniformed presentations and speeches make sure the troops now Photo by MC3 Timothy Wilson family – the bond between all officer from October 2001 from Rolling Thunder, Inc. serving get treated better Capt. Daniel Zinder, deputy commander of National Naval of us is unbelievable,” he said. through September 2005, leadership punctuated the ac- than the way we were when Medical Center, welcomes Rolling Thunder participants “There’s a lot of veterans out said although the “Ride tivities, providing alternating we came home.” to National Naval Medical Center to ride through hospital here – WWII vets, Korean For Freedom” serves as somber and festive moments The Rolling Thunder, Inc. grounds in honor of recovering veterans. Zinder also wished vets, Vietnam vets and vet- an annual reminder for for both participants and on- “Ride For Freedom” came Bob Griffith, center, a happy birthday. Griffith was born at the erans of other conflicts and veterans of previous U.S. lookers. a day before Memorial Day, hospital 60 years ago to the day. there are a lot of Afghanistan military engagements, de- Rolling Thunder, Inc. pres- an American holiday desig- historic Memorial Bridge including both the Vietnam and Iraq veterans as well. It’s ployed service members ident and Navy veteran, Gary nated to remember service and encompasses legs on Veterans’ and Korean Veter- great for all of us to be togeth- today are actively engaged Scheffmeyer, said the event, members killed while on Constitution and Indepen- ans’ Memorials. er as one – we’re united and in preserving the ideals the 23rd annual outing for duty, as well as those incar- dence avenues, coming to a The event initially began in when we start going over the and values for which pre- the organization, holds signif- cerated during conflicts and stop at the Reflecting Pool 1987 and boasted more than Memorial Bridge together it viously serving Sailors, icance not only for veterans others who have served in and Washington Monument. 350,000 riders during the brings a tear to your eye. To Soldiers, Airmen and Ma- of previous conflicts but for the U.S. military. The near- The scenic route includes 2008 outing and according to see hundreds of thousands rines struggled, noting Sailors, Soldiers, Airmen and ly 3.5 mile ride crosses the several national landmarks, Vietnam-era veteran and Roll- of people on the bridge and that their commitment will ing Thunder, Inc. co-founder all over town – they’re there always be remembered. to see us ride for their troops “About this time it’s night- and for our POWs and MIAs fall in Iraq and Afghanistan, – they want to give us their but the folks that serve over support.” there, they’re not off-duty The emotional ride, ev- right now,” he said. “The idenced through tears fight goes on at night and it’s streaming down the faces very intense. A lot of folks of participants during the have been deployed an awful National Anthem before lot, and I thank them for their the motorcycle procession service and pray for them ev- departed the Pentagon and ery day.” during a May 28, candle- Myers added that the light vigil at the Vietnam efforts of these deployed Veteran’s Memorial, as well service members and as a May 29 wreath-laying those preceding them con- ceremony at the Navy Me- tinue to be the forefront morial, served to bolster and strength of the United participants’ appreciation States and future genera- for both the job they pre- tions will prosper through viously held as well as the their sacrifice. continued service of oth- “As I look at my grandchil- ers. dren growing up, I know that “Service members are they will be safe and secure people who make a unique because of the sacrifices commitment,” said Lippold. these men and women make “When they raise their right over there day in and day out, hand, they’re choosing a life hour by hour,” he said. “We of consequence in service all appreciate what they’re to their nation, and this ride doing.” today we celebrate with Roll- For more news from the fleet ing Thunder, Inc., is just one visit www.navy.mil. AROUND THE SERVICES Naval Special Warfare personnel train with elite Brazilian unit STORY AND PHOTOS BY MCC (SW/AW) KATHRYN WHITTENBERGER Naval Special Warfare Group 4 Public Affairs RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil — Seven opera- tors from Naval Special Warfare (NSW) worked with the Brazilian Marine Corps Special Operations Battalion (Tonelero), April 19 - May 13. This was the first time the United States has engaged with this unit in more than 25 years. Members of the Brazilian “We requested this train- Marine Corps Special ing to exchange tactics Operations Battalion with special operations (Tonelero) practice close troops who have combat quarters combat skills experience. The SEAL op- facilitated by U.S. Navy SEALS during a Joint erators are the best choice Combined Exchange Training to provide that training,” exercise. The course was said Brazilian Lt. Cmdr. facilitated by the U.S. Navy’s Carlos Tunala, the Marine amphibious assault expert Corps Special Operations SEALS, as well as the Battalion operations and maritime mobility experts logistics officer. “We fo- known as Special Warfare cused on urban operations. Combatant-craft Crewmen My Marines are more pre- (SWCC). This bi-lateral training was the first time the pared to conduct these U.S. had engaged with this operations now. Our only unit in more than 25 years, experience is in Haiti, and strengthens ties between which is not as complicat- the two nations. ed as Iraq or Afghanistan. With this training, we can differences and why do improve our operations in things a certain way,” said Haiti as well as be more a SWCC facilitator. “This prepared to host the World was not as much ‘this is the Cup and the Olympics.” only way’, but more, ‘this is This Joint Combined Ex- why we do it this way and change Training (JCET) is this is how.’ If they did it part of a series requested by a better way, we took that the Brazilian government. on board as well. I was im- Topics covered includ- pressed that they were so ed land warfare, close keen to take our tactics on quarters combat, trauma board because they are U.S. Navy SEALs train medicine, over-the-beach combat proven.” members of the Brazilian missions, and movement This exercise was one of Marine Corps Special through urban and rural many planned to focus on ca- Operations Battalion environments. The course pacity building. This exercise (Tonelero) in close quarters was taught by the U.S. Na- fell under the Theater Secu- combat during a Joint Combined Exchange Training vy’s amphibious assault rity Cooperation Program, exercise. The course was expert SEALS, as well as which is a partnership be- facilitated by the U.S. Navy’s the maritime mobility ex- tween the U.S. Department amphibious assault expert perts known as Special of State and Department of SEALS, as well as the Warfare Combatant-craft Defense to build rapport be- maritime mobility experts Crewmen (SWCC). tween the United States and known as Special Warfare “Brazil is one of U.S. partner nations. Combatant-craft Crewmen Special Operations Com- As part of that effort, (SWCC) mand (SOCOM) priority NSW Seabees, or combat locked on to learning what countries and we are privi- constructionmen, built a we are putting out here,” leged to be strengthening new 25-yard marksman- said a SEAL instructor. “I our relationship here,” said ship range and upgraded think our biggest success Special Operations Liaison the shoot house with an is that we’ve really ex- Officer U.S. Air Force Col. additional 6,800 sq. ft. area changed some good skills, John Poast, who facilitates to allow for more viewing and it really surprised me communication directly be- areas for safety observers how quickly we formed a tween SOCOM and the and more realistic training sense of camaraderie and Brazilian military. “Exercis- scenarios. mutual respect.” es like this one provide an “Naval Special Warfare This training was also opportunity for tactics ex- wants to continue training a learning experience for change and partner nation alongside the Brazilian spe- U.S. participants. capacity building that is vital cial forces and we consider “The main challenge to maintaining security and working alongside the Bra- was the language barri- stability on a global scale.” zilians to improve their er and learning how to NSW operators who training facilities an invest- train through an interpret- traveled to Brazil for the ment in our partnership.” er, but we worked through training enjoyed the chance Although all the men, that,” said another SWCC. to work with the Tonelero. both Brazilian and Amer- “This was not a one-sided “When we teach our ican, put in long hours, it conversation. Their tactics guys, it’s from scratch. For was well worth the effort definitely have their appli- these guys, they already to see what they accom- cation and I think if I had to have their base tactics, plished. fight in a jungle, this is the so we could focus on the “I found these guys par- unit I would want to work smaller things, like the ticularly motivated and with.” Summer programs expand for military children

BY ELAINE WILSON animals, cooking, photog- to help military children American Forces Press Service raphy and art. ages 7 to 17 cope with the These camps can be stress of having a parent WASHINGTON — particularly beneficial for deployed, explained Mi- From camps to golf clinics guard and chelle Joyner, the to acclaimed museums, association’s military children have communica- an abundance of free tions director. summer programs “It’s a to choose from in wonderful op- 2010, a Defense portunity to Department offi- bring kids to- cial said. gether so they The activi- can learn ties not some coping skills to get through difficult Tylor Richmond, 13, (L) and camp instructor Will Morgan stand ready as Matt Ingalls, 13, times,” said prepares to climb back into a second canoe after retrieving a fallen paddle. Ingalls’ canoe mates, only offer Joyner. Nick Hunkin, 13, (L) and Ryan Sullivan, 12, prepare to help. The young men were participating a respite from The chil- in an “Operation Purple” canoeing class held at the Millstone 4-H camp in Ellerbe, N.C. day-to-day routines, but dren also are also foster camaraderie reserve children encouraged to two sites in Germany, said to explore cultural oppor- work. among children deal- who may not have a com- form their own support Joyner. tunities through the Blue “When children are out ing with similar military munity of support around networks, she added. While camp registra- Star Museums program. of school we want their challenges, said Barbara them, said Thompson. The association, tion has ended for this This initiative, sponsored time to be fun, but pro- Thompson, director of the “It shows that they’re through a grant from the summer, registration still by the National Endow- ductive as well,” said Pentagon’s office of fam- not alone, that there are ment for the Arts and Thompson. ily policy, children and other children facing the Blue Star Families, offers Also aimed at educa- youth. same worries and anxiet- service members and up tion, the Department of “Peer-to-peer is won- ies as they deal with the to five of their immediate Defense Education Activ- derful way for children issues of the military life- family members free ad- ity will offer a four-week to learn how to deal and style,” she said. mission to participating summer enrichment pro- cope with separations The Defense Depart- museums from Memorial gram that emphasizes and parents’ absence,” ment will deploy more Day through Labor Day. math and language arts said Thompson. “Each than 100 of its child and More than 600 museums skills. In 2010, the pro- person copes differently, youth behavioral special- in 50 states and the Dis- gram will be offered at 62 but my personal belief is ists to 99 of these camps, trict of Columbia have sites worldwide to about that when you’re busy ... Thompson noted. They’ll signed up so far. 10 percent of the activity’s it takes some of the bur- support the camp staff, “What a cultural oppor- students from kindergar- den off of your shoulders, she said, and also will tunity,” said Thompson. ten through 8th grade. takes away some of your conduct focus groups and “It’s just a wonderful way The activity also offers a anxiety and concern.” other support activities to spend summer days so summer online high school Thompson suggested for children. it’s not all fun and games, program for students who military families start by The department will but there’s some learning are at risk of not meeting looking into the pletho- send hundreds of other going on and cultural ac- graduation requirements. ra of day and residential child and youth special- tivities. We’re very excited These students can enroll summer camps. ists to Operation Purple about this initiative.” in coursework to replace a Operation Military Kids, Camps and to camps spon- For budding golfers, the failing grade or to fulfill a for instance, will sponsor sored by the services, said First Tee Military Affiliate course requirement. 250 summer camps across Thompson. Program offers free golf “Our summer school the nation for school-age In total, “we are going instruction to children program helps our military children, both ac- to be sending over 500 Photos by Gerry J. Gilmore from Guard and Reserve students meet their ed- tive and reserve, through child and youth specialists Kimberly Gray, (L), 10, and Jade Williams, 12, pose for a families geographically ucational requirements picture after lunch the “Operation Purple” closing ceremony a partnership with the across the world to take separated from a military through a virtual pro- at Millstone 4-H camp in Ellerbe, N.C. Army, the Defense and care of children in summer base, Thompson noted. gram,” said Patricia Riley, Agriculture departments activities,” said Thompson. Sierra Club Foundation, is open for Operation The instruction is avail- chief of the activity’s Vir- and 4-H. The camps cover Operation Purple expects to send more than Purple family retreats, able at First Tee’s 200 tual School Program. a wide range of interests, Camps, sponsored by the 9,500 children to camp available to all members chapters located across “This is particularly including robotics, tech- National Military Family this summer. Camps are of a military family. The the nation. School-age chil- helpful for our students nology, high adventure, Association, are designed located in 37 states and in next retreat will be held dren at all skill levels, from overseas, since many (do) July 4 at Grand Teton Na- beginner to advanced, are travel back to the U.S. to tional Park in Wyoming. It invited to hone their golf see family in the summer, includes a travel stipend game with the help of which would be difficult if to defray the cost, said trained coaches. they were attending a tra- Joyner. People can visit The program not only ditional brick-and-mortar militaryfamily.org to sign sharpens their skills summer school.” up or to learn about the on the green, but also From outdoor activities to association’s other family equips children with life educational opportunities, programs. skills. Along with basic the department’s summer Military children also golf instruction, First Tee programs are just another can seek camp and other coaches teach children way of taking care of mili- summer activity oppor- interpersonal communica- tary families, Thompson tunities through their tion, managing emotions, noted. installation libraries and goal-setting and overcom- “Children also serve,” child and youth services ing obstacles. she said. “For them, it may programs, said Thomp- For parents look- be a little harder than (for) son. Additionally, each ing to keep their kids’ the adults in their life, be- installation has a pool and learning skills honed cause they can’t always some have pool lifts for throughout the summer, figure out what’s going to swimmers with special Thompson suggested they happen next, especially de- needs. The department visit Tutor.com, a free, on- pending on the age of the also has been revamping line tutoring service for child. To have these oppor- some of its playgrounds service members and tunities for excitement and with special-needs chil- their families. Children fun is just the best thing dren in mind, she added. can access round-the- that we can do.” Off installation, Thomp- clock professional tutors For more news, visit son encourages parents who can assist with school www.navy.mil. GOING GREEN

These Provost Marshal’s Office dog kennels were one of five installed during the construction of the $10 million Military Police Company Interim Facilities Project in early May, as part of the $56 million USMC Grow the Force Construction Program at Camp Lejeune. The secluded location of the energy efficient dog kennel complex keeps the dogs in a tranquil mood while the size of the facilities provides more living and training space. The construction also includes the capacity to house more than 100 dogs, two storage buildings, a central kitchen and 1.5 acres of fenced obedience courses. Camp Lejeune military working dogs get energy efficient home Atlantic. The structure was also built with selected heating system, which is projected to realize more than 30 percent efficiency over conventional gas or oil-fueled heat sys- tems. Lt. Gen. Dennis J. Hejlik, commanding general, II Ma- rine Expeditionary Force, attended the ribbon cutting ceremony earlier this month, signifying the official open- The new layout and design for the military working dog kennels ing of the complex. includes drainage ditches inside the kennels to reduce the Also in attendance were use of water waste. the ranks of police dogs and PRESS RELEASE early May, as part of the $56 their handlers who say they Naval Facilities million USMC Grow the are delighted with their new Engineering Command Mid- Atlantic Public Affairs Force Construction Program facilities. at Camp Lejeune. “The new kennels are a sig- CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. This project, completed by nificant improvement from — The Officer In Charge of Blue Rock Structures, Inc., U.S. Marine Corps photos by Lance Cpl. Damany S. Coleman our former home,” said John Construction Marine Corps of Pollocksville, N.C. was Military working dog handler, Cpl. Austin French with the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune Salvetti, Camp Lejeune ken- Installations East (OICC one of 20 contracts award- Provost Marshal’s Office, walks the grounds of PMO’s new energy efficient dog kennels, May nel master. 22, after taking his canine companion out for some play time. MCI East) completed the ed to implement a directive He added that the seclud- construction of the $10 mil- from the commandant of the units affected by the 202k ing dog kennels that can trainer activities. ed location of the kennel lion Military Police Company Marine Corps to provide in- initiative to incrementally in- hold more than 100 dogs, “This project provides complex keeps the dogs in a Interim Facilities Project in terim facilities for Marine crease overall Marine Corps two storage buildings, a cen- rather stately kennel facili- tranquil mood and the size of end strength to approximate- tral kitchen and 1.5 acres of ties for II MEF and Marine the facilities provides more ly 202,000 Marines by fiscal fenced obedience courses Corps Base working dogs living and training space. Winners of ONR’s Energy year 2011. to support military working with energy conservation A future military construc- The interim facility project dog operations for Marine in mind. The kennels max- tion project slated for next Challenge help Navy reduce consisted of erecting pre- Corps Base Camp Lejeune imize creature comfort by year provides 14,500 sq. ft. engineered buildings and and II Marine Expeditionary utilizing in-slab radiant floor of permanent administration its carbon footprint installing modular units; with Force. heat systems fed by a farm space to replace the interim ARLINGTON, Va. — • Dr. Pyoungho Choi of the exception of the perma- Additionally, three mod- of geothermal well points,” modular units. In an effort to motivate the University of Central nent kennels constructed for ular classrooms and 12 said Cmdr. Cheryl Hansen, For more news from Na- researchers to help the Florida-Florida Solar Ener- the military police working modular administrative build- commanding officer, OICC val Facilities Engineering U.S. Navy decrease its re- gy Center – “Simultaneous dogs. The contract provided ings were installed to house MCI East, Naval Facilities Command, visit www.navy. liance on fossil fuels, the Extraction of Lithium and for construction of five work- kennel master, handler and Engineering Command Mid- mil/local/navfachq/. Office of Naval Research Hydrogen from Seawater” (ONR) announced May 26 • Dr. Nazim Muradov, nine winners of an “Energy University of Central Flor- Challenge” issued at its re- ida-Florida Solar Energy cent Naval Energy Forum. Center – “High Power The recipients, whose Density Generators for Un- projects range from mi- manned Undersea Vehicle crobial to solar power, will Applications” receive up to $100,000 to • Dr. Bruce Rittman, apply toward their research Biodesign Institute at Ar- area, said Dr. Rich Car- izona State University lin, who heads ONR’s Sea – “Advanced Photobiore- Warfare and Weapons de- actors for Biodiesel and Jet partment. Fuel Production with Min- “We selected nine very imal Water and Nutrient promising energy ideas Consumption” and “Devel- from nearly 100 white pa- opment of an Acetate or pers,” said Carlin. “There Sugar Fed Microbial Pow- were many good ideas, and er Generator for Military the winners were chosen Bases” after a comprehensive com- • Dr. Rahul Bidkar, GE petitive review.” Global – “Textured Hydro- The Naval Energy Fo- phobic Surfaces for Energy rum, held in October 2009, Efficient Naval Vessels” provided a platform for • Dr. Barrett Pot- Navy and Marine Corps ter, University of Arizona leaders and their science – “Optoelectronic Nanocom- and technology partners to posite Materials for Thin discuss energy challenges Film Photovoltaics” facing Naval forces. • Dr. Alan Huston, One winner, Dr. Theo- Naval Research Lab – “En- dore Bloomstein of MIT gineered Core/Shell/Shell Lincoln Laboratory, said the Quantum Dots for Photo- Navy’s investment in his so- voltaics”; lar cell research is vital. • Dr. Theodore Bloom- “While the research fund- stein, MIT/Lincoln Labs ing is essential, the Navy’s – “High Power-Per-Weight involvement in alternative Organic Solar Cell” and technologies for meeting • Dr. Jason Ren, the power-generating needs University of Colorado – of the individual Soldier and “Low-Energy Desalination humanitarian relief per- and Electricity Generation sonnel make it the perfect in Bioelectrochemical Sys- partner for this research.” tems.” Dr. Kam Ng, ONR’s dep- The Department of the uty director of research, Navy’s ONR provides the hailed the winners, saying science and technology nec- their projects hold promise essary to maintain the Navy for a more energy-efficient and Marine Corps’ techno- Navy. logical advantage. Through “The success of these proj- its affiliates, ONR is a ects will translate to helping leader in science and tech- the Navy decrease its re- nology with engagement liance on petroleum and in 50 states, 70 countries, reduce its carbon footprint 1,035 institutions of higher in support of the Secretary learning and 914 industry of the Navy’s strategy for a partners. ONR employs greener force,” said Ng. approximately 1,400 peo- The recipients and their ple, comprising uniformed, energy research initiatives civilian and contract person- are: nel. Photo by MCSN Richard J. Stevens Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel, commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic along with Sailors and Marines at the NASDAQ Stock Exchange close out the month of May in Times Square as part of the Fleet Week celebration. Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic closes NASDAQ Stock Exchange BY MCSN ERIC LOCKWOOD The Stock Exchange repre- Photo by MCSN Richard J. Stevens Navy Public Affairs Support sents the economic foundation of Members of the Navy Band, of Newport, R.I., provide entertainment during New York City Mayor Michael Element East the country and Boensel was hon- Bloomberg’s welcome reception at Gracie Mansion during Fleet Week New York. ored to be asked to close it out this NEW YORK — Sailors, Ma- month. Navy Band rocks Times Square during Fleet Week rines and Coast Guardsmen join “Our country is built on a cap- Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel, Com- italist system and NASDAQ, of BY MC3 DOMINIQUE WATTS mander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic course, is part of that,” said Boen- USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs in closing out the NASDAQ Stock sel. “It’s really a part of the engine Exchange for the month, May 28. that makes our country work. To NEW YORK — Road Island Boensel offi ciated ringing the be able to do this is a great hon- Sound, a division of Navy Band closing bell, signaling the close of or.” Northeast, based out of New- the month, during one of the many Approximately 3,000 Sailors, port, R.I., performed a live Fleet Week New York activities. Marines and Coast Guardsman rock concert in Times Square, “We’re so excited that you are participated in the 23rd Fleet May 28, during the celebration could join us right here, at the Week New York, which took place of Fleet Week New York 2010. cross-roads of the world in Times May 26 - June 2. Fleet Week has “This is my second time Square, as we get offi cially set to been New York City’s celebration performing in Times Square ring the NASDAQ closing bell in of the sea services since 1984. during Fleet Week and each celebration of Fleet Week in New For more news from Command- year has been amazing,” said York City,” said Gregg Hernandez, er, Navy Region Mid Atlantic, visit Musician 3rd Class Rebecca managing director of NASDAQ. www.navy.mil/local/cnrma/. Gonzalez, vocalist for Road Is- land Sound. As thousands of New York- ers and vacationers descended upon Times Square for the event, they were met with a va- riety of pop and rock hits. “The show was amazing,” said Maria Cranston, who was visiting the city with her family. “I had no idea that Sailors per- formed concerts like this.” The variety of songs appealed to every demographic of the Photo by MCSN Eric Lockwood audience. Musician 3rd Class Tim Leonard, drummer for Navy Band Northeast, plays “Every part of the show was the drums during a welcome reception at Gracie Mansion which was held by really great,” said Tina Gro- Mayor Michael Bloomberg for the opening of Fleet Week New York 2010. howski, who was helping her Approximately 3,000 Sailors, show. mother celebrate her birth- Marines and Coast Guardsmen “All of Navy Band North- day during Fleet Week. “They are participated in the 23rd east has been preparing for played a little bit of everything Fleet Week New York. this week for a long time,” said and that made it really good.” “The crown was amazing,” Stanley. “We had a lot of meet- The impact of performing in explained Musician 3rd Class ings to decide what would be Rear Adm. Mark S. New York was not lost on the Tommy Stanley, guitarist and performed and a lot of rehears- Boensel, Commander, band. vocalist for Road Island Sound. als followed that.” Navy Region Mid- “To have the opportunity to “They had so much energy. It In addition to performing Atlantic, attends play in New York is phenome- was inspiring to play for such in various events during Fleet the closing of the nal,” said Gonzalez. “This city, an amazing crowd.” Week, the band serves to en- NASDAQ Stock with all it has been through, has Months of dedication and tertain the general public and Exchange, May 28, for embraced our troops and been preparation was put into coor- educates the public on the di- Fleet Week New York 2010. an inspiration to all of us.” dinating such a high energy versity of the Navy. Photo by MCSN Eric Lockwood USO hosts annual ‘A Swingin Salute to Our Troops’ event BY MC1 (AW/SW) MONIQUE K. HILLEY Navy Public Affairs Support Element East both the USO and Paris Hilton on this impor- tant program,” said Tom Wiggin, founder of NEW YORK — Sailors, Marines and the Songs for Soldiers program. “For close Coast Guardsmen danced the night away to 70 years the USO has been supporting with Paris Hilton at the United Service Orga- our troops and we are proud to have Songs nization’s (USO) annual “A Swingin Salute for Soldiers associated with this legacy.” to Our Troops” event in the Union Square Yeoman 2nd Class Rachel Martis, from Ballroom, May 26. the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship “Tonight’s event is really a kickoff for Fleet USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), has been a ballroom Week and to recognize a couple hundred dancer for almost fourteen years. She said Sailors, Coast Guardsmen and Marines that that when she heard she was going to get to are here and say thanks for your service and attend a kickoff party at the Union Square the incredible sacrifi ces that you and your Ballroom, she was thrilled about the oppor- families make,” said Brian Whiting, presi- tunity. dent and CEO, USO of Metropolitan New Photo by MC3 Kristin Grover “I am extremely ecstatic and happy to be York. “That’s what tonight is all about and Sailors, Marines and Coast Guardsmen dance the night away at the United Service here. I normally do American-style ballroom it just happens to be that this party is being Organization Fleet Week kickoff event, “A Swingin Salute to Our Troops,” which was held at dancing and I’ve sort of branched out into brought to them by BAE Systems, a world- the Union Square Ballroom, May 26. international-style,” said Martis. “I already wide strategic partner of USO and also our to the Soldiers who are fi ghting overseas for “With troops shouldering the burden of started dancing and found out it’s over 90 partner in Songs for Soldiers so we’ll hand us. I think there’s nothing more patriotic, or heavy deployments, morale-boosting initia- degrees in the building, but I can dance, so out some MP3 players to some of the Sail- more worthwhile, than doing something for tives like Songs for Soldiers become even that’s all that matters.” ors here tonight.” our troops. “ more important,” said Whiting. Whiting, Wiggin and Paris Hilton took the Paris Hilton was in attendance as Celebrity The Songs for Soldiers initiative wants to The MP3 players, which can withstand stage during the event to thank the service Ambassador for the new Songs for Soldiers provide a portable combat-ready MP3 play- heat, freezing, shock and being dropped, members in attendance for their service and program to raise awareness for the cause, er to every one of the more than 180,000 will contain dozens of songs from ‘To The highlight the new Songs for Soldiers initia- which offers a new way for Americans to ex- troops deployed throughout the world Fallen Records’, music written and per- tive. The speeches were followed by hours press their gratitude to U.S. troops serving through the support of Americans. The formed by veteran and active duty service of ballroom dancing, where local New York- overseas. program was created after a City Universi- members, as well as celebrity videos thank- ers could mingle with the Sailors, Marines “I am so honored to be the Celebrity Am- ty of New York research study found that ing the recipient for their service. Several and Coast Guardsmen. bassador for Songs for Soldiers,” said Paris U.S. service members signifi cantly rely on other artists are in discussion with Songs Hilton. “I think it’s an amazing initiative and music to help them cope with the stress of for Soldiers to donate their music. See A10 for more coverage from I love that I can bring music, hope and fun combat. “We are excited to have partnered with FLEET WEEK NEW YORK 2010 FLEET WEEK NEW YORK 2010

Sailors (R) pull Marines across a boundary line for a win during a tug-of-war contest being broadcasted live for the morning news and talk show, Today (The Today Show) outside Studio 1A in Rockefeller Plaza.

Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) John Stratton Sailors, Marines tug it out on the ‘Today Show’

BY MC1 KAYLA L. THOMPSON York every year to cele- USS Theodore Roosevelt brate Fleet Week. Public Affairs “It’s fantastic to see the military here, in New York NEW YORK — Sail- City of all places, on Me- ors and Marines gathered morial Day weekend said outside Studio 1A Rocke- Robach. “Fleet Week is a feller Plaza, also known as fantastic way for us to show the set of the Today Show, our thanks to the men and for their annual tug of war women who put their lives match during Fleet Week on the line every day for 2010, May 29. us. So to see them walking Hosts of the show, Amy around New York, I think Robach and Lester Holt, we all feel a little safer, but along with Lt. Gen. Den- also feel very proud and nis J. Hejlik, Commanding very thankful,” she said. General, II Marine Expe- Holt added that it makes ditionary Force and Rear him feel good as a New Adm. Mark S. Boensel, Yorker to see the military Commander, Navy Re- here and having a good gion Mid-Atlantic, were on time. hand to kick off the two- “I love seeing the Sailors round match. and Marines around town The first round featured enjoying the sites,” Holt the Navy versus the Ma- said. “You can tell that rine Corps, in which the the city embraces them Navy came out victorious. because people are out The second round fea- helping them with direc- tured the Navy against the tions and giving them tips Today Show hosts, along on places to go. It’s fun with their weatherman, for us. It’s festive. Every- Scott Williams, and news one loves when the ships desk correspondent, Peter pull into town. It’s a blast Alexander. With the help for us to have them on the of the Marine Corps, the show every Memorial Day Today crew won. weekend and the crowd “I love our annual tug really eats it up. It’s fun to of war because we always meet Sailors and Marines win,” said Robach. “No and their families who matter who’s the winner or have come along.” who’s the loser, we always Holt also said that he end up on top. Obviously once rode on USS Iwo we get one of the teams to Jima a couple of years ago, help us out so we get a lit- so it’s good to see the ship tle extra muscle behind it,” back this year for Fleet she said. Week. Holt added that their win Lt. Gen. Hejlik added that wasn’t exactly a fair one. he is impressed with the “If you want to go strict- way the service members ly by the rules, one might are handling themselves argue that we embellished during the visit. a little bit or skirted the “I was telling some of rules, but it was fun,” he the officers the other said. “The showdown night that when you drive between the Navy and Ma- around the city you see the rine Corps is one of the Sailors, Marines and Coast better ones we’ve had and Guardsmen and they’re all it was a really tough one. in proper uniform and they As for the Today Show per- look good,” he said. They formance, we cheated. We look sharp and they’re needed a little help from representing their coun- the Marine Corps, but we try well in New York City. pulled it off.” New York is treating them According to Lt. Gen. with the dignity and re- Hejlik, the tug of war was spect and fun that they’ve really a collective effort. earned. It’s great to be “The Navy and Marine here in New York. I’m Corps team pulled togeth- proud to be a part of the er to have something like Navy and Marine Corps this, he said. “The Navy Team. It doesn’t get any won and next year maybe better than this,” said He- the Marines will win, but jlik. we’re really all winners,” Boensel echoed Hejlik’s he added. praise. Boensel added that it “I haven’t run into a was a great match. Sailor, Marine or Coast “It was a rubber match, Guardsmen that hasn’t said Rear Adm. Boensel. had a great time so far, “It was one to one before said Boensel. “The city re- today. We got a great win ally embraces us when we today so it was on our come here and it’s a won- side. The Marines will derful experience for all come back hard next year of us. I think it’s a great though,” he said. opportunity for the Navy, Robach said it makes Marine Corps and Coast her feel good that the Sail- Guard to show them what ors, Marines and Coast their sea services do here Guardsmen come to New in New York.” Deborah Mullen is presented Far East CPOs conduct 117 the Gold Star Wives of America Appreciation Award hour treadmill marathon for by Ruth Miller, board chair, and Kit Frazer, president, Millington flood victims Gold Star Wives of America at the BY MC3 ANDREW RYAN SMITH ed States organizations annual Navy Public Affairs Support “It starts with us. It’s good for the junior Congressional Element West, Det Japan Sailors to see their Chief Petty Officers Reception at the YOKOSUKA, Japan — At the stroke of leading the way and promoting the Navy’s U.S. Capitol Visitors Noon, May 26, Senior Chief Navy Counsel- culture of fitness,” said Gonzalez. “I have Center, Washington, or (SW/AW) Johannes Gonzalez took the gotten E-mails from chief’s currently un- D.C., May 27. Photo by MC1 Chad J. McNeeley first steps in a 117 consecutive hour tread- derway saying they will run underway and mill marathon aimed at raising money for wishing they were here to joins us.” the Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society. The fundraising event is being held at Mullens honored for support of “This benefits both promoting a culture CFAY’s main taxi stand near the base gates. of fitness as well as raising money for the Gonzales says this location allows the en- families of fallen service members Navy Marine Corps relief society to help tire community so see the pride of the Far BY ELAINE WILSON braced by their communities to meet their the victims of the Millington flood,” said East CPOA in action from dusk to dawn. American Forces Press Service immediate and long-term needs. Chief Personnel Specialist (AW) Louis Sal- Proceeds are based on “per mile” pledg- The chairman stressed the need for a dana, an organizer of the event. es, but passers by can also support the WASHINGTON — The nation’s top mil- “seamless joining” of the departments of De- Johannes is not doing this by himself ei- runners by donating on the spot. Area com- itary officer and his wife were singled out fense and Veterans Affairs and communities ther. He and over 100 other members of mands were encouraged to pledge based for their ongoing commitment to families of across the nation to “welcome these heroes the Far East Chief Petty Officer’s (CPO) on the assumption that runners will aver- fallen service members at the U.S. Capitol back to communities.” association at Commander Fleet Activities age of five miles an hour. building, May 27. All must “join hands together to make sure Yokosuka (CFAY) are sharing in the aches, “Every Chief’s Mess in the Yokosuka The Gold Star Wives of America present- we maximize the opportunities in meeting pains, blisters and sweat that accompany area was involved. If you look at our list of ed Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the the needs of our young veterans as they re- this marathon, which will continue over participants, we have representatives from Joint Chiefs of Staff, and his wife, Deborah, turn home after these very difficult wars,” he the Memorial Day weekend. The mara- every command on base from shore com- with an appreciation award for their efforts said. “And not lose one family who has lost thon is being conducted on two treadmills, mands to ships in port,” said Saldana. “The on behalf of survivors and their families dur- someone.” and each hour as one chief completes his response to this event was quick; as soon as ing the organization’s annual congressional Mullen reiterated his ongoing commit- or her race against the clock, another “re- we announced this event a number of chiefs reception. ment to families of the fallen. lieves the watch” for the next hour. The came forward and volunteered to fill slots.” The Gold Star Wives is an organization “We really are honored to serve, to try and 117 time-frame of the event represents the Once the run is complete at 10 a.m. on of military widows and widowers whose make a difference, and we’ll continue to do number of years U.S. Navy Chief Petty Of- Memorial Day, participants will assem- spouses died while on active duty or from that,” he said. “Your loss, your sacrifice is the ficers have been walking the deckplates ble and run in formation to the site of service-connected disabilities. most significant, the ultimate, and the one we and leading Sailors. CFAY’s Memorial Day services. The Far The ceremony came at a fitting time with need to ensure we are focused on and never, Holding this event over the Memori- East CPOA will present NMCRS with the Memorial Day so close at hand, Mullen ever forget.” al Day weekend was by design. Besides donation in a presentation ceremony on noted. The chairman’s wife also acknowledged showcasing ideals such as the Culture of June 2. “I’m reminded today … coming into this the immense sacrifice made by military fami- Fitness, CPO Pride and charity, the run For more news from Commander Fleet very important weekend of remembrance lies, and praised the Gold Star Wives for their is also a way to honor those who served Activities Yokosuka, visit www.navy.mil/lo- that we should never forget the sacrifice,” he work on their behalf. and gave their lives in defense of the Unit- cal/cfay/. said. “We believe that none of us does this The chairman pledged his ongoing sup- alone,” she said. “It has to be one large team port of families of the fallen and vowed to of people working in concert to take care of continue his efforts to find more ways to re- the families who have lost people, to the fam- REPEAL: Gates addresses troops member and honor their sacrifice. ilies who have wounded members, to those “Sometimes it’s easier in the beginning to who come back with the unseen and the do that because of the currency of the event,” seen wounds of war. on ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ repeal he acknowledged. “What’s really important “This is not just about the military or the Continued from page A1 the Defense Department effective manner,” the sec- is that we sustain that love, devotion, passion VA. It is about all of us in our country,” she study even more impor- retary said. “So please let and remembrance for as long as we live.” continued. “And you represent an important without hurting unit cohe- tant, said Gates. The panel us know how to do this Mullen said one of his priorities is to ensure part of that. We will never forget your service, sion, military readiness, will conduct a thorough right.” all military families – whether they include but most importantly, we’ll never forget the military effectiveness, and and fact-based assessment He asked all service veterans, wounded service members, active heart you have, the caring heart, for those recruiting and retention,” of the impact of the poten- members to stay informed or reserve members or survivors – are em- people like you who have lost a loved one.” said Gates. tial law change and will on this issue, but to not let As the legislative pro- develop “an implementa- it distract them from the cess continues, nothing tion plan that minimizes “critical mission to defend will change in current pol- any possible disruption to our country and our duty icies and practices, the the department’s mission to uphold the values rep- secretary said. “Current and ongoing operations,” resented by the uniform law, policies and regula- he added. you wear,” he said. tions remain in place and Gates urged service The message will play we are obligated to abide members to participate in on AFRTS broadcast out- by them as before,” he the review. “We need to lets overseas and on the said. hear from you and your Pentagon Channel in the The vote in the House families, so that we can United States. and at the Senate commit- make these judgments in For more news, visit tee makes the results of the most informed and www.navy.mil. CHANGE OF COMMAND ARCD, REGION 3 WELCOMES NEW BATTALION COMMANDER Lt. Col. Teresa M. Williams relinquishing command of Region 3 to Lt. Col. Stephen R. Keck, May 26, at JEB-Fort Story parade fi eld. B3

SECTION B FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM June 3, 2010 NCAA football coaches visit USS Eisenhower BY MC1 (SW) AMY KIRK USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs

USS DWIGHT D. EISEN- HOWER, At Sea — Four Division I football coaches vis- ited Sailors aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) as part of the Moral Entertainment and USO-sponsored 2010 Coaches Tour. University of Oregon’s Chip Kelly, the U.S. Military Academy head coach Rich Ellerson, Tim Murphy of Harvard and Univer- sity of Illinois’ Ron Zook toured the ship and greeted Sailors, tak- ing time to sign autographs and pose for pictures. Photo by MC3 Christopher A. Baker “It took about 10 seconds for Harvard football coach Tim Murphy, meets Sailors and signs autographs me to decide to be a part of the aboard aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) as part of the tour,” said Murphy, who has two Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Gina K. Wollman Morale Entertainment and USO-sponsored 2010 Coaches Tour. Head Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Joseph Bailey shows distinguished visitors recent graduates heading to Af- football coaches from the University of Illinois, the University of Oregon around the weapons magazine during the Morale Entertainment and USO- and the U.S. Military Academy joined Murphy on the tour to boost the ghanistan soon. “I had great sponsored 2010 Coaches Tour aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). morale of service members overseas. respect for the men and wom- en in uniform before, but seeing For Ellerson, being a part of look at different environments day face. I appreciate them even more. It you folks in action is impressive. the trip was twofold. He want- and working conditions so he “I have a profound respect for has been a humbling experience Few people could do what you do ed to pay his respect to the men could go back and report to his every person who serves,” said watching these men and women everyday. We owe you all a debt and women defending our free- Army athletes, giving them per- Ellerson. “Being able to see the that will be diffi cult to repay.” doms and well as get a fi rsthand spective on what they may one Air Force and the Navy in action, See NCAA, B7 Kearsarge receive nearly 1,000 hand-made cards from Girl Scouts

STORY AND PHOTO BY MCSN She started making cards MARIA RACHEL D. MELCHOR for her father when she was USS KEARSARGE (LHD 3) Public Affairs nine years old. Her father was constantly on deployment and NORFOLK — Sailors on sending him greetings cards board the amphibious assault and packages was her way of ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) communicating. She remem- received nearly 1,000 hand bers how hard it was when her made greeting cards from Girl father was away from home. Scout Megan Welch as her “I made the cards because project to receive the Golden my dad is also in the service Award, the Girls Scouts’ high- and I know how important it is est award. The cards were to let him know that I think of presented during a ceremony him,” said Welch. held in the ship’s Hangar Bay, She realizes how impor- May 19. tant it is for Sailors to keep in Welch, a Girl Scout from Junior Sailor of the Year Damage Controlman 2nd touch with family members Troop 916, is the daughter of Class Brayand I. Osorio receives a box of various and friends, so when it was Lt. Cmdr. James Welch who is greeting cards hand-made by Girl Scout Megan time for her to create a project attached to Tactical Air Control Welch at the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge for Girl Scouts she immedi- Photo by MCSN Austin Rooney Squadron (TACRON) 21. hangar bay. Welch delivered greeting cards to Sailors ately thought of making cards Aviation Maintenance Administrationman Airman Jackie Wilson Kearsarge’s Senior Sailor of as part of her project to achieve the Ambassador for Sailors in her pursuit of the prepares for a 100-meter sprint on the Huntington Hall running status in Girl Scouts this June. track in Newport News recently. Wilson is a member of the the Year Aviation Boatswain’s Golden Award. This project Armed Forces Track and Field team, which is made up of service Mate (Handling) 1st Class Gentle J. Welch, together with the help of was a part of Welch’s few fi nal steps members from all branches of the military and competes against Clark, Junior Sailor of the Year Dam- her mother, Mrs. Wendy Welch and until she receives her Ambassador various militaries from around the world. age Controlman 2nd Class Brayand Troop Leader Kathy Winter, started status in the Girl Scout this June. I. Osorio, and Blue Jacket of the Year making the cards by hand in January. The boxes of greeting cards were TR Airman, Wilson, sets Machinist’s Mate Donald J. Kingsford “We spent many hours working on delivered to the Sailors to use through- each received a box of various greet- the greeting cards, making sure they out the upcoming deployment. The standard for sprinters ing cards from Welch during her were fi nished and delivered before cards may be used and sent to family presentation on behalf of the crew. deployment,” said Welch. and friends for special occasions. BY MCSA AUSTIN M. ROONEY A member of the Armed USS Theodore Roosevelt Forces Track and Field (CVN 71) Public Affairs Team, Wilson said he has been involved in track and Individual Augmentee Sailor returns to CSFTL There are hundreds of fi eld since high school and thousands of United States decided to run for the Navy BY LN1 DIEDRA S. CHERRY military personnel stationed when an A-School instruc- Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic in approximately 60 bases tor saw him running and told in this country’s mid-east re- him of the recourses avail- NORFOLK — Yeoman Second gion. Out of those service able. Class Denisse Gallardo returned men and women, more than “It was defi nitely a good to Strike Force Training Atlantic 400 participate in their re- idea to try out for a team,” (CSFTL) following a nine month In- spective branches’ sports said Wilson. “There are try- dividual Augmentee (IA) tour. “I was A photo of Yeoman teams. out dates every year, so actually gone for 12 months because I Second Class Denisse Gallardo Aviation Maintenance Ad- there’s always a chance to had to go through about three months taken at Al Faw ministrationman Airman make the team.” of training before I actually deployed,” Palace in Camp Jackie Wilson, stationed on Wilson said he started run- said Gallardo. Victory, Iraq while USS Theodore Roosevelt ning for the All Navy Track Originally from North Hollywood, on Individual (CVN 71) can sprint 100 me- Augmentation. ters faster than all of them. See SPRINTER, B7 See GALLARDO, B7 Photo courtesy of YN2 Denisse Gallardo HOMEFRONT NEWS SPOUSE Staying focused

BY MICHELLE GALVEZ ily has moved 11 times in the Navy spouse, journalist last dozen years. I had to juggle The school year is wind- my children’s soccer and ballet ing down and my kids and I schedules and get a sitter, but are having trouble staying mo- with three kids enrolled in the tivated for homework while city’s schools for the 2010-11 visions of summer excursions school year, I also wanted to go and beach outings dance in our and hear the superintendent’s heads. Even though school is perspective on military fami- almost out, education and mil- lies’ concerns. itary families continues to be a I was in good company. There ing standards by state, counselor military-connected children liaison officers (SLOs) was top priority in Hampton Roads. were about 30 other people at and teacher awareness and sen- worldwide, half of them have strongly praised and highlight- The past two Tuesdays I’ve the Brashear Conference Cen- sitivity to military kids’ needs, seen a parent deployed to Iraq ed. Not only do the SLOs work attended meetings about the ter on a school night. Gajan gifted testing and the need to or Afghanistan, according to with military families to learn Interstate Compact on Educa- welcomed us saying, “This is a accommodate children ahead the Military Child Education about an area’s educational of- tional Opportunity for Military chance for you to speak out and or behind in curriculum as well Coalition. Virginia has the larg- ferings when moving, but the Children at local bases. The tell us what your needs are” and as installing a peer mentor pro- est number of military children SLOs also work with schools to Compact, signed into Virgin- no one was shy as most seemed gram in all grades similar to the in the nation, with more than help them understand the com- ia law last year and accepted to be anxious to share both sponsorship program the active 79,000 students from military plexities of military families, by 31 states at press time, is their positive experiences and duty member receives when families. identify challenges and con- designed to address the edu- their challenges. Merrill asked moving. “The council’s goal is to en- nect to families who are critical cational issues that military the group to be open and share On May 18, I saw the next sure that the children of the stakeholders, said Ann Bane of families face such as graduation our experiences with him – and level of that information gath- men and women of our armed Hampton City Public Schools. requirements, access to special we did, for the duration of the ering. The newly created forces experience a seam- All in all it’s comforting to services and other transitional scheduled meeting and about a Virginia Council on the Inter- less transition when they know that even though school concerns. It was drafted by the half hour past closing time. state Compact on Educational enter the commonwealth’s pub- is about to let out, there are Council of State Governments Of the almost 70,000 students Opportunity for Military Chil- lic schools,” said Miller. “The many people continuing to in cooperation with the Depart- in the Virginia Beach City dren met at Langley Air Force council will seek to ensure that work for the benefit of our mil- ment of Defense. Public Schools alone, approxi- Base to discuss the background students from military families itary kids’ education. Parent I’d gotten a call from the Patty mately 40 percent are affected and overview of the Com- are quickly enrolled, properly involvement and awareness of Gajan, the school liaison officer by the military in a direct way, pact, get a local perspective on placed and have the resources the latest issues and programs at Joint Expeditionary Base-Lit- according to Merrill. “That has the successes and challenges they need to be successful.” is imperative to help alleviate tle Creek about a May 18 Family a huge impact on everything we military children and their re- Attendees heard an overview the concerns of our children as Focus Meeting with Dr. James do in Virginia Beach schools,” ceiving school districts face of Virginia’s Compact which we move from place to place. Merrill, Virginia Beach City he said. and hear discussion by council includes 18 articles and ad- Public comment is invited at all Public Schools Superintendent. Parents shared stories of members. dresses such needs as receipt of these meetings so you are He was recently appointed by transitioning and when the dis- Chaired by Virginia State Sen- of records (unofficial education also encouraged to attend and the Governor to serve on the cussion veered too far into the ator John C. Miller (D-District records can be given to parents speak out. Virginia Council on Interstate territory of an individual story 1), the council also includes to hand-carry to the new school According to the April/May Compact for Military Children or got too general in its criti- educators and an active-duty hastening the registration pro- 2010 Navy Region Mid-Atlantic which was created to coordinate cism of education, Merrill was reservist. The council will co- cess), being placed in the School Liaison newsletter “Ed- the Compact’s implementation quick to bring it back into fo- ordinate Virginia’s efforts to appropriate grade despite state ucation Connection,” there are in the state. He wanted to hear cus. In order to help him help remove roadblocks for military disparity of age requirements 10 SLOs in this region, to find first-hand from military fam- us, he needed us to stick to mil- children in enrollment, place- such as kindergarten deadlines, out the contact information for ilies about the most frequent itary family-specific issues, he ment and graduation in the initial placement in programs the SLO nearest you call 322- and difficult problems typically explained. commonwealth’s public schools such as gifted and talented with 2679. encountered when PCSing with The most frequently echoed – and for military students mov- assessments being completed kids across state lines. issues from many of the at- ing from Virginia to other states later, and enrollment eligibili- Michelle Galvez is a Navy spouse, I figured I might have an ex- tendees dealt with Individual and territories, according to a ty when a child has to live with journalist, ombudsman and mother perience or two to share since Education Plans (IEPs) for spe- Virginia Department of Educa- someone else due to a deploy- who lives in Virginia Beach with her my 6th grader has had seven cial needs children, classes and tion press release. ment. husband and children. Contact her at different schools and our fam- credits being transferred, vary- Out of the nearly 2 million The role of the many school [email protected].

The fear of the unknown p BY BIANCA MARRIED Reach out to NewsChannel 3’s Bianca MARTINEZ to the Military Martinez at [email protected]. Be sure to check out “Do My Military Job” Deployment. If every Wednesday at 11 p.m. you are reading my on NewsChannel 3! blog or this article Saying thanks with a ‘Cup of Joe’ on a weekly basis, But, I have no clue what it is really like over it is likely that you there. What is he going to face everyday? Mmmmm... coffee. I ing Freedom know it well. Tell Do I even want to know? How do I not wor- couldn’t start my day, (OEF) and me the anticipation, ry? If I do, if I think about it too hard, then shoot, get through the Operation the days leading up everyday will be a bigger challenge than it middle of the day with- Iraqi Free- to zero hour, aren’t worse than the actual has to be. out it. I know. I have dom (OIF). goodbye. I am in the midst of it right now. an addiction to coffee, What makes The fear of the unknown … but when you live the this program The fear of the unknown … The one you don’t want to talk about… life of a single work- especially re- Can I actually make it months without los- not even write about ... but you can’t help but ing mom most of the warding is the ing my mind? How am I going to balance think about. It’s the one you only pray about. year, well, you need ability for the work, the kids, the stress of it all? How am I pray that I don’t have to live without my it. We all do. purchaser to I going to make sure I fi nd time to take care best friend like way too many of my friends It’s not just us spouses though. My send a personal note of thanks with of myself, so I don’t go nuts? How am I go- have had to do. The fear, that this is the last hubby is the one I have to thank for the gift of a coffee drink. As a result, ing to do this without whining about it to my hug. The fear that this is the last kiss. my coffee dependency! So imagine troops taking their breaks at the near- husband? He needs to do his job not wor- Is it weird to want to get to the good- heading overseas without the possibil- est Green Beans Café get a cup of ry about home. How on Earth am I going to bye? Am I the only the one that feels ity of a good “Cup of Joe.” Well, thank fresh-brewed coffee, but they also get manage to do this with my sidekick, my best this way? Nope. I know that because you goodness they don’t have to. Speak- a note of gratitude for their service friend on the other side of the world? send your amazing E-mails to me every- ing of thanks, anyone can say it to our and sacrifice from caring supporters. day saying it’s nice to know someone else troops with that cup of warm energy! Many express their appreciation in The fear of the unknown … feels what you feel. We are a force of our You don’t even have to be in a coffee return E-mails. What is going on over there? How dan- own, spouses. shop in Afghanistan or Iraq to do it. What seems like something simple gerous is it really? You read reports in I am ready for the hug that I don’t want to Under the Cup of Joe program – for many of us here at home can be a magazines. Heck, I even read them on air. end and the watching in the rear view mir- or COJ as the troops call it -- anyone huge morale booster for our men and ror as he walks with his bags. with two dollars to spare can buy a women protecting our freedoms. To If he hurries up and goes, cup of super premium coffee for a GI read some of the thank you notes and then he can move onto hur- deployed on or near a U.S. Military to find out how to give a COJ, head to rying up to get home. base in support of Operation Endur- www.greenbeanscoffee.com

You can catch Bianca Martinez anchoring the 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts with Kurt Williams during the work week. You can also follow her laughter, stress and tears as a military wife in her blog, “Married to the Military,” weekly in the Flagship. CHANGE OF COMMAND

The Soldiers of Army Reserve Career Division, Region 3 participate in the May 26 change of command ceremony in which Lt. Col. Teresa Williams relinquished command to Lt. Col. Stephen Keck. The ceremony took place aboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story. Photo courtesy of JEB Little Creek-Fort Story PAO ARCD, Region 3 welcomes new battalion commander PRESS RELEASE ary Base Little Creek - Fort Story, of Virginia, West Virginia, the Dis- gion 3, to assume new duties at his new assignment, “I’m excited JEB Little Creek-Fort Story PAO May 26, at the JEB-Fort Story pa- trict of Columbia and Maryland. the Pentagon, in Alexandria, Va. to serve as the commander of Re- rade field with Lt. Col. Teresa M. Not only for their hard work and Lt. Col. Keck is coming to Region gion 3 with these soldiers during VIRGINIA BEACH — Col. Williams relinquishing command professional conduct during the 3, JEB-Fort Story, Virginia from this critical time in our Country John “Rob” Ligon, Army Reserve of Region 3 to Lt. Col. Stephen R. preparation of this ceremony, but his last assignment as the Execu- and I look forward to command- Careers Division commander, Keck. also for their exceptional perfor- tive Officer and Senior Observer ing this outstanding organization. hosted a change of command “I’m extremely proud of the mance over the course of the last Trainer for the 7306th Medical Mission success and taking care ceremony for the Army Reserve soldiers and families who serve three years,” said Lt. Col. Wil- Exercise Support Battalion at of our great soldiers and their Careers Division (ARCD), Region as ‘Career Counselors’ for active liams. Fort Sam Houston, Texas. families will be my top priorities 3, stationed at Joint Expedition- and reserve soldiers in the states Lt. Col. Williams leaves Re- Lt. Col. Keck looks forward to as Commander.”

Riverine Group 1 changes command aboard JEB Little Creek-Fort Story

BY MC2 (SW) MICHAEL R. HINCHCLIFFE are going forward and into harms’ way.” Navy Expeditionary Combat Command RIVGRU serves as a ready force for the VIRGINIA BEACH — Riverine Group Joint Force Maritime Component Com- (RIVGRU) 1 held a change of command mander and Joint Force Land Component and retirement ceremony aboard Joint Ex- Commander. peditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Krueger said the job everyday at the Group May 21. is to do everything to ensure those who go Capt. Christopher Halton assumed com- forward are as safe and effective as they can mand of RIVGRU 1, which was followed by be. Because of that daily focus, all 800 plus the retirement ceremony of Capt. Anthony men who made the four deployments all Krueger, who celebrated the culmination came home safely and in one piece. of 25 years of Naval service. “I am profoundly thankful for the ex- During Krueger’s command, Riverine traordinary efforts and dedications of the squadrons completed four deployments men of the three Riverine squadrons and in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. their families,” said Krueger. “It is they These deployments allowed Riverine who ultimately pay the price and make the forces to conduct maritime security and biggest sacrifices to make this organiza- combat operations against tactical, water- tion the success story that it is.” borne and unconventional warfare units in Prior to assuming command of RIVGRU, a riparian environment. Halton served as director of operations Photo by MC3 Devin Brown “This tour, without a doubt, is the high- and test, training, readiness and exercises Capt. Christopher Halton, incoming commodore of Riverine Group (RIVGRU) 1, renders a light of my career,” said Krueger. “I can branch chief at U.S. Strategic Command’s salute while being piped aboard during a change of command ceremony May 21. Halton think of no higher honor or privilege than Joint Functional Component Command relieved Capt. Anthony Krueger as commodore of RIVGRU 1 during the ceremony held aboard the one I’ve been given to lead men who for Integrated Missile Defense. Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. NAVAL HISTORY Part II: Reflections from the Naval Mine Depot, Kirkpatrick Park

U.S. NavyPhotos Capt. Kirkpatrick was commanding officer of Naval Mine Depot Yorktown, from Nov. 2, 1942 to Mar. 5, 1946. BY LEO C. FORREST, JR. Navy Munitions Command, Yorktown

On Nov. 2, 1942 a remarkable individual took command of Na- val Mine Depot Yorktown and later that day he presented a mas- ter plan to the civilian workers that helped them to win WWII. As we learned in part-one of this series, Kirkpatrick had of- ten asked the civilian workers to report to the parade grounds to provide the latest developments of the war. Kirkpatrick Park is a lasting tribute to this individual whose bold vision, leadership and accomplishments are still reflected at a place known today as Naval Weapons Station Yorktown. In 1945, the civilian workers of the Mine Depot presented Capt. Kirkpatrick with a concrete and brick reviewing However, on Sept. 3, 1945, it stand that overlooks the parade ground. was the civilian workers who asked Kirkpatrick to report to the parade ground for a special pre- “This plaque is the gift of the important moments of a journey ordinance mixing kettles and as- Kirkpatrick often walked are sentation. The war had been won civilian employees as a token like no other. sociate machinary being used to shrouded in darkness, damp and and Kirkpatrick was scheduled to of respect and admiration for Even today, Kirkpatrick’s influ- produce large volumes of explo- cold to walk. The walls of the great retire as Commanding Officer of Capt. Kirkpatrick, whose wise ence is felt in the Weapons Station. sive materials. concert halls of the plants he used the Mine Depot and move to Cal- planning, bold vision and persis- For example, the stop light Kirk- Just below the kettle decks, he to walk so often are now covered ifornia soon. tent effort during the war years patrick has installed at the main would watch as hand-operated in layers of peeling paint. Kirkpatrick stood on a platform wrought lasting benefit to the De- gate to help minimize traffic. valves were opened and closed to The same ordinance produc- that had an excellent view of the pot and under whose inspiring Kirkpatrick expected all opera- fill a continuous line of steel cas- tion instruments that Kirkpatrick parade ground. Moments before, leadership it was a privilege and tions at the Mine Depot to be run es. Other processes followed as saw and heard during his visits the assembly was called to order honor to have served.” as efficiently as possible. To en- the explosive material cooled and are still sitting in-place. Many as they unvieled a plaque mount- The era was named the “Kirk- sure max productivity, he had a the ordinance was prepared and have not been tuned and played ed on the back wall of the podium patrick years”– a period in time state-of-the-art roundhouse built shipped to the front lines of the since the 1980s. But at the con- which read: that marked some of the most from which new railroad tracks war. trol panels of these machines, originated and stretched across The motors that turned the ro- the motors and the chain-link the Mine Depot. These rails en- tating blades of the ordinance drive systems that ran long ago sured the efficient moving of kettles ran nonstop and the hand- can still be heard. The musical ordinance and other materials for operated valves were opened and notes are faint and from anoth- over 60 years. closed hundreds of times a day. er era. And just glancing at the Buildings such as Shed 7 and For decades, only a select group sheet music, one realizes that Shed 10 (now known as Building of men stood on the aluminum long passages of this material 476) would be built and used for platforms and mastered the oper- could never again be performed some of the most sensitive ord- ation of these valves. – especially, now that the origi- nance work ever conducted at the In the fall of 1945, it was the nal members of the orchestra Mine Depot. civilian worker’s turn to call Kirk- are no longer available to per- For Kirkpatrick, no detail was patrick to the place where he had form these complicated musical too small. Many times the lights so often addressed them. The compositions that took years to could still be seen in the CO’s of- area was dedicated and is still perfect. fice long after working hours as known as Kirkpatrick Park. But each day, at a place known he studied ways to improve oper- On Mar. 5, 1946, after a career as Kirkpatrick Park, a reflec- ations at the Mine Depot. of 37 years in the Navy, Kirkpat- tion from a brass plaque is still For the next 60 years, much rick retired to Coronado, Calif. cast across the Weapons Station. of the stockpile quality of Navy In addition to spending time with In a few lines the plaque makes ordnance materials would be cal- his wife Lucille and their son reference to the landmark ac- culated at this site based on the Robert Jr., he enjoyed years of complishments that occurred at results of hundreds of on-site en- gardening and was even able a place once known as the Mine gineering evaluations. to lend his leadership skills as Depot. Kirkpatrick approved the de- president of the Coronado Floral The words on this page of mu- signs and personally supervised Association. sic, however, are too few. The the construction and installation Kirkpatrick died on June 20, notes too distant. The tune too of the equipment throughout the 1961 and was buried in Fort Rose- muted – barely audible. Only one Mine Depot. crans National Cemetery. His voice is heard – the voice of Kirk- Kirkpatrick could often be wife noted at the ceremony how patrick talking to his musicians. found in the vast network of proud Kirkpatrick was to have The voice is strong and comfort- buildings that made up the ord- been the Commanding Officer ing, almost fatherly – a voice that nance plants. of the Mine Depot during WW is timeless, and still echoes today Kirkpatrick could often be II. at Naval Weapons Station York- found walking the vast network “Kirk was an adventuresome town. of the ordinance plants. Be- person, always ready to try the un- Leo Forrest is a mechanical en- tween the three plants there were tried and to face the unknown.” gineer at Naval Weapons Station At Kirkpatrick Park, a brass plaque still reflects an important moment in miles and miles of tunnels and Today, many of the buildings Yorktown, and can be contacted at the history of Naval Mine Depot Yorktown (present day Naval Weapons corridors where he would find and long concrete corridors that 887-4780. Station Yorktown). CHAPLAIN’S CORNER Local God is in control, God always has a plan BY LT. J.G. understand why God allows grasp. ‘‘For my thoughts are more than was initially taken CHRISTOPHER JORDAN evil and suffering. Howev- not your thoughts, neither are from him. Headquarters and Service service times er, the Bible is very clear on your ways my ways, declares When we suffer loss, when Battalion chaplain, Quantico, Va. three principles that can help the Lord. As the heavens are bad things happen, we must LDS PROGRAMS For many years scholars our understanding; God al- higher than the earth, so are remember who God is, that and theologians have tried to ways has a plan, God’s plan my ways higher than your he has a plan. We cannot ex- JEB Little Creek Chapel Worship Schedule: give an answer to the ques- is beyond our ability to grasp, ways and my thoughts than pect to understand his plan, Noon — Sun. Worship (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) tions of why evil exists in our and our best response is to your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:7-9. but we can know that he un- 8 p.m. — Wed. Bible Study world, why bad things hap- humble ourselves and rest in It is absurd to believe that we derstands our suffering. We (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) pen, why is there pain, why his will. could ever fully understand know this because he be- is there suffering, etc. There God always has a plan. Pe- the ways of God. In fact, if we came a man, was punished, are no easy answers to these riod. Even when it seems as could, what would make us suffered and died for our mis- questions that arise when we though things do not make different than God? takes, sound fair? Isaiah says, NAVAL STATION NORFOLK face dark times. I will not at- sense. God has a plan. This Our best response is to ‘‘He was despised and reject- ROMAN CATHOLIC PROTESTANT tempt to give reasons for why is hard for many of us to humble ourselves and rest ed by men, a man of sorrows, Our Lady of Victory Chapel David Adams Memorial these things happen because accept because we have for- in his will. This is the conclu- and familiar with suffering. Mass Schedule: Chapel Worship Services: often times we can never fully gotten who God is. God is sion Job reached. Job was a Like one from whom men 5 p.m. — Sat. 10:30 a.m.— Sun. the creator and sustainer of good man who suffered im- hide their faces he was de- (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) Worship the universe. ‘‘For by him all mense loss and physical pain. spised and we esteemed him 10 a.m.— Sun. Wednesday Services: SOMETHING TO things were created: Things He pleaded with God for an not.” But he did not stay dead; 11:45 a.m.— Mon.- Fri. 8:30 - 10:15 a.m.— Bible THINK ABOUT in heaven and on earth, vis- explanation for his suffering. he rose again and offers sal- (except holidays) Study Noon “Lunch ible and invisible, whether After being reminded who vation from our suffering, Confessions: with the Lord” PSALM 23 thrones or powers or rulers God is, he replied, ‘‘I know ‘‘Come to me all who are wea- 4:15 p.m. Sat. “The Lord is my shepherd, I or authorities; all things were that you can do all things; no ry and heavy-laden and I will For more information call shall not want” - the crowd would created by him and for him. plan of yours can be thwart- give you rest. Take my yoke Naval Station Norfolk Chapel 444-7361 listen attentively. And then, at He is before all things, and in ed ... Surely I spoke of things upon you and learn from me, the conclusion of the psalm, him all things hold together.” I did not understand, things for I am gentle and humble in they would rise in thunderous Colossians 1:16-17. too wonderful for me to heart, and you will fi nd rest applause in appreciation of the Since God is the creator know.” Job 42:2-3. Job then for your souls. For my yoke is actor’s incredible ability to bring and we are the created, God’s repented, was humble before easy and my burden is light.” JEWISH PROGRAMS the verse to life. plan is beyond our ability to God and was blessed with Matthew 11:28-30. Commodore Uraih P. Levy Chapel: Jewish services are But one night, just before the at Norfolk chapel in Building C7 on the Second Floor actor was to offer his customary recital of Psalm 23, a young man Correction: It has come to our attention that in last week’s paper, Chaplain Stal- every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Building C7 is located at 1630 from the audience spoke up. “Sir lard was misidentifi ed. Stallard is a Commander, not a Lt. Commander. We apologize Morris St. on Naval Base Norfolk. For more information do you mind if tonight I recite for this error. call 444-7361 or 7363. Psalm 23?” The actor was quite taken back by this unusual request, Religious mass aboard USS Ronald Reagan but he allowed the young man MUSLIM PROGRAMS to come forward and stand front Masjid al Da’wah and center on the stage to recite 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7): Muslim services are the psalm, knowing that the abil- ity of this unskilled youth would at Norfolk chapel every Friday at 1:30 p.m. be no match for his own talent. With a soft voice, the young man began to recite the words of the psalm. When he was fi n- JEB LITTLE CREEK CHAPEL ished, there was no applause. There was no standing ova- ROMAN CATHOLIC Confessions: tion as on other nights. All that Mass Schedule: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. — Sat. could be heard was the sound 5 p.m.— Sat. PROTESTANT of weeping. The audience had (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) 9 a.m. — Sun. School been so moved by the young 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m. — Sun. (4 years-Adult) man’s recitation that every eye 11:30 a.m. — Tues. - Fri. 10:30 a.m. — Sun. was full of tears. (except holidays) Divine Worship, Amazed by what he had Children’s Church heard, the actor said to the youth, (Ages 4-10) “I don’t understand. I have been performing Psalm 23 for years. I PWOC: Bible Study at the Chapel Annex Every Wed. have a lifetime of experience and Photo by MCSN Benjamin C. Jernigan Fellowship: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: 10 a.m. - noon training - but I have never been Lt. William Dorwart, a chaplain assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN PWOC: Evening Bible Study Every Mon.: 7 p.m. able to move an audience as 76), leads a congregation during Roman Catholic religious mass. you have tonight. Tell me, what is Latter Day Saints Coffeehouse your secret?” 11:30 a.m. — Sun. 6 p.m. — Sun. The young man humbly re- For more information call JEB plied, “Well sir, you know the Little Creek Chapel 462-7427 psalm, but I know the shepherd.” Secrets of the Post 9-11 GI Bill

Part 2: Understanding how it all works and how to make the most of your Post 9-11 GI Bill BY MC1 (AW) TIM COMERFORD other aspect to think on, where The Flagship Staff Writer The Post 9-11 GI Bill will pay eligible individuals: transferability is concerned, is the ser- vice obligation it is caused. If you want to make the most of your • Tuition & fees directly to the school not • A one-time rural benefi t payment for “If you do transfer, you will incur an Post 9-11 GI Bill, then the Military Of- to exceed the maximum in-state tuition eligible individuals. additional service obligation of up to ficers Association of America (MOAA) & fees at a public Institution of Higher This benefi t is payable only for training four years,” said Dyer. “There are a cou- Learning. See chart listing maximum in- at an Institution of Higher Learning (IHL). has some valuable information to share. state tuition rates. If you are enrolled exclusively in online ple of exceptions. If you are prevented There are secrets that will help you • For more expensive tuition, a training you will not receive the housing from serving that additional obligation maximize what you get out of your ben- program exists which may help allowance. If you are on active duty you due to up and out rules, service longev- efit. This is the final of a two part series to reimburse the difference. This will not receive the housing allowance or ity rules or anything that would prevent on transferring the benefit and getting program is called the “Yellow books & supplies stipend. This benefi t from completing the additional term of information on the GI Bill. Ribbon Program.”. provides up to service. So, if you sitting around waiting • A monthly housing allowance 36 months of to transfer, all you are doing is pushing Don’t wait to make family eligible based on the Basic Allowance education benefi ts, your service obligation further and fur- for GI Bill benefi ts transfer for Housing for an E-5 with generally benefi ts ther into the future. It doesn’t matter dependents at the location of the are payable for 15 school. years following how old the kids are or if the spouse is “When the program first rolled out, • For those attending foreign your release from going to use it in ten years, your addi- some people got bad information on schools (schools without a main active duty. The tional service time starts the second you this,” said Phillip A. Dyer, deputy direc- campus in the U.S.) the BAH rate Post 9-11 GI Bill hit the transfer button.” tor, financial education at MOAA. “You is fi xed at $1,333.00 for 2009. also offers some According to Dyer, service members must have been in a currently serving • An annual books & service members that were retirement eligible on or be- status on August 1, 2009 or after to af- supplies stipend of $1,000 the opportunity to fore August 1, 2009 or have a retirement fect a transfer of the benefit and – this paid proportionately based on transfer their GI Bill date before June 30 of this year, they do is the key – you must have transferred enrollment. to dependents. not have any extended service obliga- at least one month of benefits to eligible tion. beneficiaries prior to separating from or “Children of parents that died in the retiring from the service. This is what line of duty, retroactive back to Sept. 11, caught people, because they didn’t trans- 2001. Every one of those children will fer benefits prior to separating from the get a modified GI Bill. If they had six kids service.” every single kid would have their own The benefit is then the service mem- modified GI Bill through the Gunnery ber’s and theirs alone. Sergeant John David Fry scholarship. “Right now there is no do over,” said It doesn’t have to be a combat death, Dyer. it doesn’t have to be a support death,” In order to transfer the benefit it may explained Dyer. “The rules are little dif- take some time. ferent. First they must be at least 18 to apply for the program and the benefit is good for 15 years. It can be used at any point between ages 18 to 33.” TIPS: You know enough to be dangerous •Get your school to submit en- rollment certifications early (VA Just because you know enough, doesn’t Form 22-1999). Remind your school mean you know everything. Dyer sug- they do not need to wait for your gests that service members go to the Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to Post 9-11 GI Bill benefits website. submit enrollment certifications. “They just revamped it and made it “You can get transfers approved prior years of service. If you have more than pretty user friendly,” he said. “They •To qualify for the housing bene- to separation,” Dyer explained. “Fortu- 10 years of service currently, you could have a very nice step by step decision fit, you must be enrolled in at least nately when you hit the submit button transfer benefits today and the kids or process to take you through and make one on-campus class and be regis- on the transfer site it gives you a date, the spouse could immediately start us- you aware of the best benefit for you.” tered for at least 51% of full-time time stamp. So, even if it takes a couple ing it.” The GI Bill website offers side by side credit hours. For example, if full- of weeks for it to go through, that is con- Make sure that any children you want comparisons of the bills, a calculator for time at your school is 12 hours, you sidered the date it went through.” to transfer the benefit to are eligible. estimating benefits, online applications must take 7 hours or more to get There may also be extra steps to finish “The kids must be in DEERS (De- to apply for benefits, a road map for suc- the housing benefit. the transfer. fense Eligibility Enrollment Reporting cess and chance for service members to “To close the transfer loop some of System) and even though the benefit is chat online with experts about questions •Use the GI Bill website to explore the services, particularly the sea servic- good up until age 26, they will age out they may have about their benefits. answers to questions (www.gibill. es, are requiring additional paperwork of DEERS at 23,” explained Dyer . “The To look at your benefit and compare vis- va.gov); most are there. from the service members command,” benefit must be transferred while they it www.gibill.va.gov Dyer explained. “The command may still show up in DEERS.” To make a plan for college, visit your lo- • Be sure to inform VA if you have to sign off on it. So, if have gone Once eligibility has been established, cal Navy College to set up an appointment, change your direct deposit informa- through and submitted on the transfer a service member can then move around for Hampton Roads, call 492-6183. tion. site and it has been more than about 10- how ever many months of benefits he/ 14 working days – if you have not gotten she has to use between his/her ben- and approved status – you are probably eficiaries, even after the service Reminders: missing a piece of paper work that is re- member has separated. Multi- quired.” ple beneficiaries may take •Remember that the Post 9-11 To qualify to be able to transfer the advantage of the GI GI Bill housing and books and benefit, a service member must have at Bill at the same supplies stipends are paid “in ar- least six years of service. time. rears.” “That service may be a combination An- of active duty and drilling guard and Re- • Get to know your VA School serve,” said Dyer. “Once you have that Certifying Official (hint: check with six years of service, you can trans- the Financial Aid Department or fer it to your spouse or your Registrar). They certify your actu- kids. But the kids cannot al enrollment (that’s what triggers use it until you have 10 your payments). Some schools wait until the drop/add period is over to certify your enrollment, so check out the policy for your school. NCAA: Four Division I football coaches visit Sailors aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower as part of USO-sponsored 2010 Coaches Tour Continued from page B1 same.” ment, the USO (United Service In addition to signing autographs, Organizations) and Under Armour in in action. With everything going on the coaches also conducted a ques- conjunction with Armed Forces En- and the potential for bad things to tion and answer panel discussion in tertainment, the Coaches Tours is in happen, no one seems stressed – ev- the ship’s hangar bay, fielding ques- its third year of providing entertain- eryone is on point.” tions about the upcoming college ment, relief from the rigors of active Kelly commented on the crew’s football season and how, like within duty and an expression of gratitude ability to work seamlessly together, a military organization, teamwork is and support for military troops serv- much like a successful football team, the key to success. ing overseas. to get the job done. “You just keep seeing the team- According to the USO website, “What we do on the field is just a work and the amazing attitudes,” the tours have put NCAA coaches in game, but what you are doing here is said Zook. “One of the underlying touch with more than 40,000 troops Photo courtesy of YN2 Denisse Gallardo life,” said Kelly. “Every few seconds, things you see is that every job out to date, and officials estimate that I was taken aback by the seeming here is important, from taking care this year coaches will meet and in- ease and efficiency with which ev- of the aircraft to preparing the food, teract with 15,000 to 20,000 service GALLARDO: eryone did their job – to watch that everyone pulls together with pride members through the tour. coordination was amazing.” and professionalism. Every smile Eisenhower is underway as part of The coaches were not the only and attitude toward the job has been a regularly scheduled deployment to Sailor returns from ones to notice the similarities be- impressive.” the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsi- tween a successful military operation The coaches said they look for- bility (AOR). Operations in the 5th and a successful football team. ward to returning home and sharing Fleet AOR are focused on reassuring IA assignment with “I am very excited they are here,” their experience with family, friends regional partners of the coalition’s said Interior Communications Elec- and their football teams. commitment to help set conditions positive experience trician 1st Class Priscilla Horner, “I think it is important for every- for security and stability. U.S. forc- who won a raffle to dine with the one to know that we are able to live es maintain a naval and air presence Continued from page B1 Gallardo was recognized coaches. “They have a great per- the life they way we do because of in the region that deters destabiliz- for all her hard work and spective of what we do out here men and women like you,” said Zook. ing activities while safeguarding CA, Gallardo checked on dedication when she was – how they lead a team and how we “We can’t say thank you enough.” the region’s vital links to the global board CSFTL in 2007. Her selected as Camp Cropper lead out here are pretty much the Sponsored by Moral Entertain- economy. name was submitted for Junior Sailor of the Quarter consideration as an IA in for 1st Quarter 2010. She early 2009. “I always knew was also awarded the Army that there was a possibility Commendation Medal. that I would have to go so When asked what the best I just made up my mind to thing was that came out of make the best of it.” her time as an IA, Gallardo During Gallardo’s IA, said that it was a big person- she spent time at both al accomplishment. “I did Camp Bucca in Southern things that I did not know I Iraq and at Camp Prop- was capable of.” The worst er in Baghdad. “When I thing, she said, was missing first arrived, I was involved her son’s 4th birthday. in detainee operations. Her advice to Sailors who Once I moved on to Camp may be apprehensive about Cropper, I had the opportu- going on an IA, “You just nity to become the Leading have to roll with it. Having Petty Officer of the Admin- a positive attitude will only istrative Department,” said make it better and just do Gallardo. your best.” SPRINTER: Airman sets the standard Continued from page B1 on the track. Currently on temporary orders to secu- and Field Team, which com- rity, Wilson said balancing petes against other branches the long working hours with of the military, in March practices and events is hard, 2008. He was accepted by but his chain of command the Armed Forces Track works with him. and Field Team later, which “You have to be really includes service members squared away,” said Wilson. from all branches of the mil- “If you have a bad eval or any itary and competes against NJPs you probably won’t be other military teams from accepted.” sometimes up to 100 coun- Wilson said his time run- tries around the world. ning for the team has paid “You have to be the best off and he’s become a bet- of the best to make it (on the ter runner because of it. He Armed Forces team),” said currently holds the record Wilson. “The coaches are re- for running the fastest 100 ally tough and they have very meter sprint in the mid-east high standards.” region (which includes Va., The Armed Forces Track W. Va., N.J., Md., and N.C.), and Field Team competes which he runs in 10.19 sec- less-often than All Navy onds (with legal wind). teams, but the competitions Wilson’s coach, Marine Mas- they take part in are much ter Sgt. Jeremy Mitchell, said larger-scale, often run by the he is one of his best sprinters International Council for Mil- and has improved since join- itary Sports (CISM). CISM ing the team. hosts the Military World “He’s one of my star ath- Games, which takes place letes,” said Mitchell. “What every four years and is con- makes him such a good run- sidered to be the military’s ner is that he’s coachable. If I equivalent to the Olympics. tell him he needs to do some- “It’s a great experience, I thing different, he listens.” get to meet people from all Mitchell, who has been walks of life from all over the coaching the Armed Forc- world,” said Wilson. “CISM es Track and Field Team for is really important; you defi- around two years, said Wil- nitely have to have talent.” son qualified for the United As well as being consid- States Military World Team ered as an equivalent to the this year, but still has to qual- Olympics, Wilson said the ify for running in next year’s service members who finish CISM World Games in Rio first and second in the races de Janeiro, Brazil. usually get to go to the Olym- Mitchell welcomes other pic trials. Getting to that point Sailors from TR to try out for takes a lot of practice, and the team, but recommends Wilson said the practices are that they try out for the All very challenging. Navy Track and Field team “The official practices (for first. the Armed Forces team) are “A lot of people come out held in Mississippi, but peo- here just to test the waters and ple in our region practice see if they can make it and it about three times a week at turns out they can’t even run,” Christopher Newport Uni- said Mitchell. “We’re hard on versity,” said Wilson. “Some you. If you aren’t ready, we’ll of our coaches used to be send you back. ” drill instructors, so our prac- “I’m getting better with the tices are tough.” help of my coaches and all Wilson said one of the the training,” said Wilson. “I most important parts of be- can do nothing but get better ing on the team is being as long as I take advantage of able to maintain a good per- all the opportunities the team formance at work as well as gives me.”