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Serving the Hampton Roads Navy Family Vol. 18, No. 19, Norfolk, VA FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM May 13, 2010 Deborah Mullen speaks at CORE spouse leadership conference STORY AND PHOTOS BY MICHEAL T. MINK for the spouses in attendance. The Flagship Managing Editor Mullen was introduced to more than 150 spouses by Admiral “Provide continuing education John C. Harvey, Jr., Commander, for spouses to meet the unique U.S. Fleet Forces Command. challenges of a military lifestyle” “CORE is a very important pro- is the mission statement for Con- gram ... it was fi rst formed here tinuum Of Resource Education and the continuum of education or CORE – and there isn’t much for enlisted and offi cer spouses is more unique than fi tting the chal- a program that I am glad to see lenges of balancing an education fl ourishing,” said Mullen. into those of being a military A staunch advocate for military spouse. spouses and family readiness ef- The CORE Spring Conference forts, she said “I was asked to held at Naval Station Norfolk’s give a speech, but I really do not Vista Point Center, Monday, fea- like to do that.” Deborah Mullen tured Deborah Mullen, wife of “When I do that, I do not learn speaks at the CORE the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of anything from you and I will con- Spring Conference Staff, Adm. Mike Mullen. tinue to learn from you as long as held at Naval Station The theme for the conference my husband is lucky enough to Norfolk’s Vista Point – “What’s it all about? Challeng- serve,” she added. Center, Monday. es and Opportunities for Today’s The fi rst question of the night Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Adm. Mike Leadership Spouses” addressed Mullen looks on. those issues on multiple levels See CORE, A10

Photo by MC1 LaTunya Howard Mark Vaughn and Russ Hilbert, civilian employees at Navy Personnel Command, take inventory of computer equipment damaged by fl ooding at Naval Support Activity Mid-South. Two days of rain dumped more than 14 inches in the area causing a drainage ditch on the east side of the base to spill over and fl ood parts of the base. Navy Personnel Command gets Pentagon motorcycle back to business after fl ood safety event raises PRESS RELEASE awareness

Navy Personnel Command le photo U.S. Navy fi Public Affairs BY APRIL PHILLIPS race tracks. MILLINGTON, Tenn. — Just a Naval Safety Center Public Affairs “If you are one of those people week after torrential rains sent up who feel the need for speed, take a to four feet of water across Naval WASHINGTON — Motorcy- lesson from these guys and get to Support Activity Mid-South (NSA) cle riders stationed in and around the track. That’s where speed be- Millington, Navy Personnel Com- Washington got an opportunity to longs – not out on the highway,” mand (NPC), with the assistance of hone their skills, swap riding sto- Garcia said. NSA personnel, have restored the ries, and learn from professional The Pentagon Motorcycle Safe- majority of services that support riders May 7 - 8 at the fourth an- ty Event also featured information the fl eet. nual Pentagon Motorcycle Safety from various Department of De- The May 1 fl ooding caused base- Event. fense agencies. Of particular note wide power and phone outages, The event’s keynote speaker was to Sailors is the new require- interrupted internet access and Juan Garcia, assistant secretary of ment that all motorcycle training damaged the servers that provide the Navy (Manpower and Reserve be logged in the web-enabled NMCI services to the more than Affairs). He commended the Navy Enterprise Safety Application 2,000 military, civilians and con- Photo by Chief Hospital Corpsman Vincent M. Soto and Marine Corps for their success- Management System, or ESAMS, tractors that work at NPC as well Streets in the family housing section of Naval Support Activity Mid-South es in motorcycle safety, noting that which can be accessed at www. as PERSNET which hosts a variety (NSA) were under water during major fl ooding after heavy rains breeched fatalities in fi scal year 2009 were navymotorcyclerider.com. Each of systems that provide services to nearby protective levees, May 1. down by 61 percent for Sailors and service had motorcycle safety the fl eet. agement Division has relocated to up their records,” said Smith. 44 percent for Marines. experts available to speak to rid- “We are incredibly lucky that the local Navy Operational Support The NPC Customer Service Cen- “This was no fl uke,” he said. ers and help ensure they comply no one was injured May 1st,” said Center and minimal services have ter was also located in a heavily “It was due to committed leader- with all training and PPE require- Rear Adm. Don Quinn, command- been restored. damaged building. ship across the fl eet and to riders ments. er, Navy Personnel Command. “We’re open for business, and “We were able to relocate agents like you who decided to close the Garcia said motorcycle safety “We, the entire Millington military we’re providing basic services and get them back on the phones gap between what the rules for re- events like this one at the Penta- community, all came together to now and hope to be at 90 percent in a short period of time but ask sponsible riding say, and what you gon are happening all across the support the local families who lost by the end of this week. We ex- that, for the next few days, only actually do out there on the roads.” fl eet, and that they serve an impor- their homes and possessions and pect to steadily add to the services those with emergency questions The motorcycle rodeo featured tant purpose. then turned to restoring our mis- we’re providing as they become call,” said Fred Chambers, director, several screenings of the Marine “As you well know, our resourc- sion of supporting personnel in the available” said Capt. Greg Smith, Customer Relations Management Corps-funded feature fi lm “Sem- es are stretched thin,” he said. fl eet. assistant chief for Reserve Person- department. per Ride” and demonstrations by “Many of you have been asked to “Many of our NPC buildings nel Management. “In addition to taking calls, we several stunt riders. Athletes who do more with less. That’s why the were damaged by the fl ood. At “We ask for patience as we bring have begun processing the elec- appeared in the movie were on loss of even a single trained and least three buildings’ fi rst decks more processes back online. We tronically submitted selection board hand to sign autographs and speak ready Sailor or Marine is so tragic. are still uninhabitable,” said Quinn. want to assure members of the Re- packages. Members can check the to riders about motorcycle safety. These are preventable losses, and “Most heavily damaged include serve force that their information is status of their packages by logging Garcia said riders of all experience we can’t afford them. The Ameri- the Reserve Personnel Manage- secure and that they can be proud of into www.npc.navy.mil and select levels can learn from the stars of can people are counting on each of ment Division, the offi cer detailer the way their fellow Reservists, ac- ‘selection board status’ in the upper the fi lm, who always wear the prop- you to ride smart.” offi ces and the computer server tive duty counterparts and civilian right-hand box,” Chambers said. er personal protective equipment, For more news from Naval Safety buildings.” peers all pulled together to protect and who only ride fast in controlled Center, visit www.navy.mil/local/ The Reserve Personnel Man- the computers and fi les that make See FLOOD, A11 environments, such as motorcycle nsc/.

INSIDE: GOING IA – PART IV: RETURNING HOME A6 FRONT AND CENTER B1 OFF DUTY C1 Just because an Individual Ten Sailors set out to USO Sesame Street Tour to Augmentee is back from conquer the Chesapeake visit Little Creek-Fort Story deployment doesn’t mean their Sailors are attempting to row/sail The Sesame Street/USO mission is over, it may have just a 26-foot long Monomoy Pulling Experience for military families begun. Boat across Chesapeake Bay. will be presenting four shows. Norfolk Pass and I.D. offi ce gives customers a pass for Express Service Commander Navy Region BY MC3 SAMANTHA ROBINETT have the following documents: a valid driv- Mid-Atlantic is: The Flagship staff writer er’s license, a Government I.D. card, current Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel Vehicle Registration and proof of insurance. The Flagship® is produced by The Norfolk Pass and I.D. offi ce is con- Also, all vehicles that are registered in Vir- Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic staff. The editorial content of this tinuing the use of Express Service for ginia must have a valid vehicle inspection. newspaper and any supplement is decals, which allows customers to complete Ellen Swicegood, the security assistant at prepared, edited and provided by the public affairs offi ce of Commander Navy part of the process to renew or receive new Norfolk Pass and I.D. said the program has Region Mid- Atlantic. decals online in order to limit the amount of proven very useful so far but that many cus- Regional program manager for Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic is time customers spend at the Pass and I.D. tomers still aren’t using it. Offi ce. “It would be more effective if more people Public Affairs Director The Express Service was established over would use it,” said Swicegood. “All we are Beth Baker six months ago and according to Jacqueline doing is verifying your information that we Editorial Staff Brodie, the supervisor at the Norfolk Pass have entered in the system from the form Managing Editor and I.D. Offi ce there is already a big differ- you sent in is correct. It takes literally a min- Micheal Mink ence in amount of time customers spend ute.” Deputy Managing Editor waiting in line for their decals. Express Service can be utilized by active MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford “We’ve had the program since October duty, retired military and contractors alike. Editorial Assistant 2009 and I can see that it is really working,” “The only thing that stops someone from MC3 Samantha Robinett said Brodie. “It gives customers the oppor- being able to use Express Service if they Graphic Designer tunity to get in the head of the line, place have any outstanding citations,” said Swice- David Todd their forms on the counter, we verify the in- good. “That includes tickets or any reason Off Duty Editor / Designer formation and then hand you your new tags, base police may have to remove your base Tim Rafalski and it’s just that simple.” decals. Those customers still have to come The Flagship® is an authorized Customers wishing to partake in Express to the ticket section of Pass and I.D. and are publication for members of the military services and their families. Its contents do Service must fi ll out vehicle registration therefore not eligible to use the service.” not necessarily refl ect the offi cial views of forms and either e-mail them or fax them to If you have an outstanding citation and at- the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine the Pass and I.D. Offi ce. tempt to use Express Service you will not be Corps and do not imply endorsement “I’ll receive their forms and if all of the put into the system and a letter will be sent thereof. The appearance of advertising information is correct I enter it into our sys- to your Commanding Offi cer to notify your in this newspaper, including inserts tem here and I will just e-mail them back or command of your ineligibility to obtain de- or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of call them at their work number to let them cals through the Express Service. Defense, the Navy or Marine Corps, know the decals are ready,” said Brodie. In order to take part in the Express Service Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, Inc. of the products and services “They must have all of their documents that customers must go online to https://cnic.navy. advertised. they would normally need to get their de- mil/NorfolkSTA/index.htm and scroll down Everything advertised in The Flagship® shall be made available for purchase, cals but it’s just a matter of making sure the the main page until they see the Pass and I.D. use or patronage without regard to race, information is correct instead of waiting for Vehicle Registration Form. Once they have color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political the information to be updated in the sys- completed the form they can either E-mail it affi liation or any other nonmerit factor of the tem.” to [email protected] or print it out purchaser, user or patron. 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Free Classifi ed Advertising, 222-3967 • Batteries (excluding automobile or boat • Weather band radios and NOAA weather Distribution, 446-2881 batteries) including: AAA cell, AA cell, C cell, radios Home Delivery, 222-3965 D cell, 6 volt, 9 volt, cell phone batteries • Storm shutter devices © 2009 Flagship, Inc. • Any portable self-powered light sources • Cell phone chargers All rights reserved. including; Flashlights, lanterns, glow sticks • First Aid Kits THE FLAGSHIP’S LEEWARD SHOUT How does your spouse support you in your military career? “She takes care “She is active duty “She is retired of everything also and we have from active duty so when I come two kids. It is hard and now she is a home it’s not sometimes, but we full time student something that work hand-in-hand. at ODU. The whole I have to worry We do little things time we have been about. She for each other like together until helps me calm wash uniforms now she has been down when I get or run the kids to active duty so we stressed out at practice. Its almost took turns taking work. She tells easier with her care of household me to look at the being active duty duties and our big picture, not though because two kids. It’s hard just the situation she knows what but she is very MM1 (SW) and that is very HM1 (SW/AW/FMF) is expected of AOC (AW/SW) understanding Willie Pruitt helpful.” Frank Hein military members.” Robert Trimble and we make it work.” USS Enterprise (CVN-65) Preventive Medicine Department of Sewells Point HM-14

“She supports “She takes care “He is in the me everyday and of my daughter. military and we doesn’t complain I have been a support each other about the extra commanding in our careers, responsibilities offi cer before and especially when she takes on when taking care of the one of us has to I have to leave on wives and making go underway. We deployments. She sure they knew have a beautiful does a wonderful their loved ones kid together so job taking care were alright was a we often have to of the kids and I lot of work for her switch on and know she does but she it without off with being at everything she complaint.” home. It is diffi cult can for me and our but I love them CS2 (AW/SW) family.” CAPT (SWOS) HN both very much Steven Olson Charles Scott Rauch and that makes it a Rose Garcia little easier to deal CNRMA COMSUBLANT NSSC with.”

Photos by MC3 Samantha Robinett

Brought to you by For the latest weather updates and up-to-the-minute weather alerts, go to www.wtkr.com/weather MILLINGTON FLOOD RELIEF Millington clears storm damage, works on restoring services BY PAMELA WARNKEN Navy Personnel Command Communications Office

MILLINGTON, Tenn. — In the wake of a 14-inch rainstorm that flooded all tenant commands at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Mid-South, the base is clean- ing first-floor offices and slowly restoring essential services for Sailors. When the flash flood hit over the weekend, base decision mak- ers shut down key personnel systems to limit long-term dam- age and save personnel data. Now, responders say the goal is to clear the mud, clean the buildings up, restore information technolo- gy systems and get people back to work providing personnel ser- vices to the Fleet. Personnel services will remain limited to emergency actions primarily because Navy Ma- rine Corps Intranet (NMCI) is unavailable on base for at least another week according to Steve Hubbard, the Chief Information Photo by Mark Wilson An aerial photograph showing flooding at Naval Support Activity Mid-South in Millington, Tenn. Two days of rain dumped more than 14 inches in the Officer at Navy Personnel Com- area, causing a levee to fail and flooding the base and surrounding community. The base is closed to all but mission-essential employees until further mand (NPC). notice. Naval Support Activity Mid-South hosts several commands, including Navy Personnel Command and Commander, Navy Recruiting Command. Also down is PERSNET, which hosts BUPERS Online (BOL), the ating whether remote or manual actions as they normally would Physical Readiness Information transactions are possible. More using these systems,” said Ann Management System, and Web- information will be available on Stewart, NPC deputy command- Enabled Record Review which this next week. Reserve retire- er. allows Sailors to visit BOL to view ments are set through June 1, In addition, detailers are begin- their official military personnel however NPC indicates receipt ning to gain access to phones and file seen by selection boards. The of printed certificates may be should be returning to normal NPC website is also offline, but delayed. Additionally, the Navy operations next week. The releas- in the interim, CNIC.navy.mil/ Reserve Limited Duty Officer ing of orders has resumed via the mid-south is posting updated in- and Chief Warrant Officer selec- Navy Messaging System. How- formation. tion results are delayed for about ever, officials caution that Sailors Selection board services and two weeks. should not execute a Navy-relat- Electronic Military Personnel Re- Programs coming online in- ed move without orders in hand. cords System (EMPRS) are also clude the Enlisted Service Record Career Information Manage- Photo by MC1 Brien Aho down, meaning statutory and and other applications on the ment Systems (CIMS) including Private First Class Jeremy Ephriam, YNC Tony Lamar, and Cmdr. Kevin screening boards are being de- Navy Standard Integrated Per- Career Development Boards, Of- Sutton move office supplies and personal items to the second floor during layed. Future selection board sonnel System (NSIPS), Career ficer Promotion Administration flood recovery operations. schedules will be updated via Management System/Interactive System and regular pay and per- NAVADMIN when they become Detailing (CMS/ID), Perform to sonnel transactions are available “It’s been challenging but we this area. Now that the base has available. Serve (PTS) and FLEETRIDE. for use. are using all communication been stabilized, our singular goal Regular monthly promotions The latter three are taking appli- The NPC Customer Service means available including social is to meet the personnel needs and advancements are not im- cations but officials estimate up Center is relocating to an unaf- networking such as the Navy De- of Sailors and commands in the pacted and will occur as normal. to several weeks before the sys- fected portion of the base and is tailers Facebook page, in concert fleet,” said Stewart. For those transitioning to the tems can be fully restored. available to address emergent with Navy.mil to keep the fleet up- For more news from Chief of Reserve force, NPC’s Career “Sailors can conduct reen- calls. Call 1-866-U-ASK-NPC (1- dated,” Stewart said. Naval Personnel, visit www.navy. Transition Office (CTO) is evalu- listment activities and detailing 866-827-5672). “This was the 100-year flood for mil/local/cnp/. MILLINGTON FLOOD RELIEF Families affected by flooding advised to complete assessments

BY BRUCE MOODY “We’ve had earthquakes rat- Commander, Navy Installa- tling all ends of the planet, tions Command, Navy Family tsunami warnings, volcanic Readiness Program clouds over Europe, flood- ing, and June 1 is the start WASHINGTON, D.C. of the hurricane season. — Navy personnel affect- The ideal time to log on is ed by the recent flooding now.” in Tennessee are encour- Bruner said that people aged to communicate their should log on, have a look needs and update their at the site and see where current contact informa- they’ll check in their family, tion using the Navy Family and get familiar with how Accountability and Assess- they would conduct a needs ment System (NFAAS). assessment. NFAAS is found at https:// “This won’t be so easy to www.navyfamily.navy.mil. do when people are stressed “Through NFAAS, affect- from having to evacuate ed Sailors, Navy civilians their home,” Bruner said. or Navy families should “It’s also a good idea to see provide current con- if contact information needs tact information,” Mike updating, since many fami- Bruner, the Navy Fami- lies are moving this time of ly Emergency Response year.” and Preparedness man- The Navy calls an area ager, said. “Navy is using affected by a disaster a geo- NFAAS to find out if Sail- graphic area of interest ors and families are okay, (GAOI). After a disaster, all where they are and how Navy personnel and their to reach them if they need Photo by MC1 Brien Aho families residing, deployed help.” Ship’s Handler 1st Class Scott Overstreet speaks with his insurance company as he removes his belongings after severe to or working within a NFAAS has a user- flooding destroyed many of his personal items on board Naval Support Activity-South. The base was closed to residents and GAOI are required to check friendly assessment tool non-mission essential personnel after two days of rain dumped more than 14 inches in the area, causing a drainage ditch on in at the first available op- to coordinate and priori- the east side of the base to spill over and flood parts of the base. portunity. There are three tize disaster-related needs. and personal property, fi- Once disaster-related family member to assist force identified the need for options available to check The system allows families nancial, employment, child needs are identified, a case them with support that a single reporting system in. to assess their needs in 19 care, education, legal ser- manager from a Fleet and ranges from the urgent to for Navy family members to Sailors can check in di- categories including, medi- vices, counseling and Family Support Center is the informational. inform the Navy regarding rectly with their commands cal, missing family locator, mortuary and funeral as- assigned. The case man- Access to the assessment their status after a declared and provide their family’s transportation, housing sistance. ager will contact the Navy information is restricted. emergency or catastrophic status and whereabouts. Details of the assessment event. This is the primary way to will not be provided to If a Navy community is account. Commands will anyone outside the case evacuated because of flood- upload the information into management team without ing or any other disaster, NFAAS. If they are unable to the provider’s approval. the Navy will use NFAAS to reach their command, Sail- Chief of Naval Operations It is an official source account for evacuated Sail- ors can muster on NFAAS (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead, of current storm informa- ors and Navy families. The at https://navyfamily.navy. center left, and his wife Ellen, speak with Fleet and Family tion, and it is an official Navy will also use NFAAS to mil. If unsuccessful, the Support Center (FFSC) source of base evacuation find out if Sailors and fami- third option is to account personnel who are helping announcements. The site lies are okay, where they by phone through the Navy displaced service members also provides a significant are and how to reach them Emergency Coordination and their families in the amount of information if they need help. NFAAS Center at 1-877-414-5358 or aftermath of severe flooding about how to prepare for a is also used to manage and 1-866-827-5672 (TDD 1-866- at Naval Support Activity disaster. monitor their well-being 297-1971). Mid-South in Millington, NFAAS was developed by and recovery process. For more news from Com- Tenn. The base was closed Task Force Navy Family fol- “You never know when mander, Navy Installations to all but mission-essential employees. lowing the major hurricane you’re going to need Command, visit www.navy. season of 2005. The task NFAAS,” Bruner said. mil/local/cni/. Photo by MC1 Tiffini Jones Vanderwyst Going IA: Part IV returning home

BY MC1 (AW) Like all reunions, an IA try to get the IAs to talk.” TIM COMERFORD encounters a period of re- Both briefs have some The Flagship Staff Writer integration where roles and ideas in common. relationships are reshaped. “We talk about reintegrat- Some Sailors may think The Fleet and Fami- ing with family members that once the Individual ly Support Center (FFSC) and their command, getting Augmentee (IA) mission is and Chaplains Religious used to the environment fulfilled, the Navy is done Enrichment Development back at home, facing their with the IA. Wrong. Once Operation (CREDO) can operational stress and re- the IA mission is complet- help with reflection and lating some of the difficult ed, the Navy has another reintegration. Fleet and experiences that they might task for them – to make Family Support Center of- have had,” Gilman said. “We sure that they are okay. fers many classes to help try and give them every re- This mission can start be- IAs after deployment. source we can, whether it is fore the previous one “When they come back for here or wherever their ends. through our NMPS we of- home of record is. We also One part of the transi- fer them a demobilization let them know about the tion is the Post Deployment brief,” said Sallie Gilman, Returning Warrior Work- Health Assessment Licensed Clinical Social shops.” (PDHA), where the DoD Worker for Fleet and Fam- CREDO Norfolk of- can track specific health ily Support Center. Gilman fers Warrior Transition problems which may be re- and a deployment special- Workshops and Warrior lated to the IA deployment ist work over at the NMPS Transition Retreats. Both through a series of ques- helping IAs before they are free to the service mem- tions. deploy or after they demo- ber. “It is the IAs chance to bilize The workshops are quick document any injury or “The Fleet and Family and only open to service exposure to chemicals or Support Center does a re- members. psychological trauma they turning from non-tradition “The workshops are a may have had while they deployments brief once a couple of hours, so if a com- were on deployment,” month, Gilman said. “Its mand has several people said Hospital Corpsman U.S. Navy Photo available to single service coming back that could use Just because an Individual Augmentee is back from deployment doesn’t mean their mission 2nd Class Valinda Blaas- members or couples. It it we schedule that,” said Lt. is over, it may have just begun. ch, Assistant Leading Petty talks about what it was like Cmdr. Connie Dorn, Depu- Officer Navy Mobilization said. “If they haven’t done adverse effects on an IAs their family and if their chil- for the family member and ty CREDO Director. Processing Site (NMPS) it yet they do it when they mission effectiveness. The dren will remember them. coping and what the ser- The retreats are more in Medical Department. “If get to NMPS. Nowadays WTP also allows IAs to There may be some sad- vice member had to deal depth and relaxed and open there is a problem later on it’s actually more common start reintegrating into a ness and regret that strong with on deployment. Also to spouses as well. they can be seen by the VA that it gets done in theater. non-combat environment, friendships developed we talk about Traumatic “Just like our personal for that problem because More and more Sailors are attend briefs and turn in during an IA tour will be Brain Injury and Post Trau- there is documentation of going through warrior tran- their gear. IAs will also be missed. matic Stress Disorder and Continued next page it.” sition, so they are getting given the chance to address The PDHA, available at it done before they come any mental health issues www-nehc.med.navy.mil/ back. And now everybody with professionals or talk to edha, can be answered regardless of whether they a chaplain. while still at the IAs de- saw a health care provid- Then the IA goes home. ployed location. Once the er in theater still has to see According to the Navy IA PDHA is complete, the IA a provider when they get Handbook, homecoming talks about their answers here.” is a process – not a sin- with a health care provid- After completing the gle event. As homecoming er who can answer any assignment, IAs will go nears, anticipation begins. concerns that the IA may through a week-long War- A firm homecoming date is have. A blood tests and a rior Transition Program often not available, which medical brief must also be (WTP) while still in the- can be frustrating. Those completed as part of the ater or in the United States. on IA assignments usual- PDHA. The WTP allows the Navy ly fly back by themselves “Within 30 days of an IA to spot any issues related with little fanfare. An IA leaving theater they have to deployments that may may wonder if they will to do a PDHA,” Blaasch have long or short term be accepted or needed by

U.S. Navy Photo The Post Deployment Health Assessment and Post Deployment Health Reassessment are import parts of the IA Process for both the Navy and the service member. Continued from previous page is completed between 90 and 180 days af- ter redeployment. growth retreat, the Warrior Transition Re- “Sixty days after they home or to their treat allows the Sailors to get together in next command if they are an active duty a small group setting and talk about expe- service member they have a reassess- riences,” Dorn said. “They are generally ment done,” Blaasch said. “They ask if two to two and a half days long. It is a way from the post deployment time to the re- for them to explore where they are, where assessment time if anything has changed. they have been and where they would They can also follow up on any issues the like to be. It is a safe setting. One of the member may have had.” rules of the retreat is that we go in civilian Blaasch believes in the importance of clothes – no rank is used – and whatever is both the PDHA and the reassessment. said within the group, unless it is suicidal “This may be the only documentation or homicidal, is confidential. Everyone in they have on their record,” She explained. the group agrees what is said within stays “They may have gone to sick call but may within.” not have had a doctor’s note written up The retreat uses the natural atmosphere on it. Out in the field a lot of time you to calm and help the service members. Warrior retreats give service members and spouses a chance to relax, reflect and interact can’t have things written down. So they “It is a good setting for people to reflect, with other singles and couples who may be experiencing the same things. might not have any documentation in to share, to gain support, to get some per- their record of a certain injury or a cer- spective and get some help on deciding Dorn said. “It is a time for peer support deployment issues that families deal with. tain chemical they were exposed to. So it where to go from there,” Dorn explained. and getting your breath back.” If a service member is experiencing post is their opportunity to make sure it is doc- “We highly recommend that they don’t The next warrior retreat is scheduled traumatic stress or is just have a hard time umented.” bring their cell phones or turn them off for July 9 - 11. integrating, it has a ripple effect on their For more information on CREDO re- because this is a time for yourself and Also CREDO has a setting for IA fami- spouses and kids. They need to know what treats and warrior transition workshops call healing.” lies. resources are available and how to deal 444-1091. Sharing is part of the retreat, but they “We are targeting IA families for our fam- with those things.” For more information FFSC classes and stress that it isn’t a replacement for ther- ily enrichment retreat July 23 - 25,” Dorn Dorn recommends families do not bring schedules call 444-2102. apy. said. “We are trying to adjust some of the children under the age of eight. For more information on the IA Process “This is not psychological counseling or family enrichment to deal with some of the The Post Deployment Health Reassess- and Post Deployment visit www.ia.navy. a group therapy thing, we express that,” special issues that are above the normal ment (PDHRA) is similar to the PDHA. It mil. Photos by MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford Above: Brigadier Gen. Brian Layer, Commanding Gen- eral, Chief Of Transportation, Commandant, US Army Transportation School speaks to an audience of armed forces service members, spouses and civilians at the “Heroes at Home” luncheon, about the importance of the recognizing the support that the person left at home gives to the service member’s readiness and ability to accomplish their missions. The Luncheon recognized all of the spouses nominated for the award as well as the top 10 finalists and the winner. Left: Rear Adm. Mark Boensel, Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic congratulates Deanne Polanin on becoming this year’s winner of Heroes at Home at the Founders Inn located in Virginia Beach, May 5. Polanin was picked out of 64 nominees for the award. Polanin takes ‘Heroes at Home 2010’ title COMPILED BY FLAGSHIP STAFF her personal goals for our children and our family. As Deanne Polanin received I continued to serve our the 2009 Heroes at Home nation and the Navy, she Military Spouse of the Year served our family.” Award during the fifth annu- When Deanne learned al Heroes at Home Military she had been selected as a Spouse luncheon held at finalist for the award, she the Founder’s Inn Virgin- said she was excited and ia Beach May 5. Polanin is surprised – but she had no the spouse of Cmdr. Joseph idea about the nomination. Polanin, Commander Joint Instead Deanne was going Task Force Paladin, Afghan- about her daily life as moth- istan. The annual awards er to Kiana, 10 and Sydney, program and spouse lun- 7, while her husband serves cheon is sponsored by The a year on a joint tour in Af- Flagship Inc. and Military ghanistan. Newspapers of Virginia. Originally from a small The award program town in New York, Deanne’s began five years ago in father was a Navy submari- conjunction with the annu- ner veteran and she earned al celebration of Military a degree from the State Spouse Appreciation Day. University of New York Military Spouse Appreci- at Buffalo. She became a ation Day was established flight attendant and was sta- in 1984 to acknowledge the tioned in Baltimore where profound impact military she met her husband who spouses have on service was attending the Naval 2010 Heroes at Home top 10 nominees Jennifer Pittard, Junko Pilch, Kathleen Zepeda, Vitto Iuliano, Deanne Polanin, Brenda members and to honor Academy. A week before Lee Crawley, Vivian Greentree, Michelle Burns and Tara Campbell listen as Tom Schaad, WAVY News 10 anchor lists winner their volunteer service the couple married she left Deanne Polanin’s accomplishments. Not shown Kerith Ann Peko. in educational, social and her job. community endeavors. “We realized with his go; and when you’ve lived The Heroes at Home schedule and where he in so many different houses program is meant to rec- would be stationed, we you know exactly what you ognize and thank the wouldn’t see each oth- want in a house.” military spouses who dedi- er very much,” Deanne It’s not always lemon- cate themselves to support remembers, “so a week ade and positive attitude the active duty members of before we got married, I for Deanne, who admits to the Hampton Roads com- quit.” having bad days too. But munity. The criterion for She has no regrets though she says whenever she gets the finalists and the winner and says she’s enjoyed her down in the dumps, all she is based on exceptional vol- life of motherhood and trav- has to do is drive down to unteer accomplishments, el. the Navy piers. fortitude during lengthy “It’s imperative,” Deanne “When I look at the ships, deployments and support said. “There’s no choice - I just kind of remember for other spouses and their they need a stable home why I do it and I’m just so families. environment and to have proud,” she says. “I’ve tried Polanin was one of 64 one parent there. We’re to instill that in our children spouses honored with hus- very fortunate to have the as well. They’re very patri- bands serving in each resources to be able to do otic and they really enjoy branch of the armed forces. that.” volunteering and helping Local business and commu- Since marrying Joseph others.” The color guard parades the colors at the beginning of the ceremony marking the 5th “Heroes nity leaders reviewed each 16 years ago, the family has Deanne has volunteered at Home” luncheon. nomination carefully to se- lived in California, Florida, for the last five years as a re- that I can understand what decorates for each holiday Capt. Theodore Lucas, lect the 10 finalists. The Maryland, Texas and Vir- ligious education assistant they’re going through.” with her own funds. an EOD sailor and friend of finalists were named dur- ginia Beach. Deanne calls at the Joint Expeditionary At New Castle, she helps Deanne also devotes time the Polanin’s also nominat- ing the ceremony before it the best part of military Base Little Creek chapel in the classroom, assists to taking care of others in ed Deanne for the Heroes Polanin was announced as life. and at least 20-30 hours a teachers, is the room moth- the military community. at Home award. the winner. “I have loved moving and week at New Castle Ele- er, a field trip chaperone As a commanding officer’s “Deanne immediately Joseph nominated his experiencing new things mentary School in Virginia and even revamped the spouse, she tried to make volunteered to support the wife for the 2010 Heroes at and new areas,” she said. Beach where her daugh- school’s entrance landscap- everyone at the unit feel Trahan family, the spouses Home Military Spouse of “We’ve made so many ters go to school. ing. like part of the family. of Tyler’s teammates, the the Year award. friends we have kept in con- “Seeing the kids grow and “Several years ago I no- “I enjoy helping Joe’s EOD Mobile Unit Twelve “We knew the Navy ca- tact with and I love that. learn more about our reli- ticed the plants in front of sailors in any way I can,” family readiness group and reer I was embarking on “I’ve truly enjoyed it and gious faith is fun,” Deanne the school were dying and she said. “In difficult times the EOD Memorial Foun- would be challenging, dy- I still get the itch to move. said. “They’re all military that’s become my little when things happen with dation,” Lucas wrote. “She namic and unpredictable,” When you’ve lived in so kids and a lot of them have project,” said Deanne. She sailors families I really try was always there when our he wrote in his nomina- many different places you parents away on deploy- planted trees, changes out to be there to support them. families needed her, placing tion. “Deanne sacrificed all know where you want to ment and I think it’s nice the flowers seasonally and It’s a smaller group and we them before herself in ev- tried to keep it as a whole, ery possible way. Deanne’s like a family.” selfless devotion during a In 2009, a Sailor from her time of unspeakable grief husband’s unit, EOD2 Ty- personified the indomitable ler Trahan, was killed in spirit of our Navy EOD fam- action in Iraq. Deanne as- ilies.” sisted the family, helped With this deployment set up the memorial ser- winding down, Deanne is vice, coordinated donations busy planning a move and and facilitated fundraising handling all the logistics and organized family read- that requires by herself. iness group meetings for Within a week of her hus- the command. band’s return this summer “When it first happened, the family will transfer to we were concerned about Florida. the other wives and families “Honestly I don’t think too,” Deanne remembers. I really do anything more “The (sailors) were still in than most people,” she said. Iraq so we set up a meet- “I care a lot about people. ing with the families. I just I’m not so much one who Chaplain (Lt. Cmdr.) Ed Bass, says try to lend an ear or as- likes asking for help, but I a prayer during the invocation at the sistance when they need really enjoy helping other “Heroes at Home” luncheon at the Maureen McDonnell, the first lady of Virginia, shares stories about her time as a it.” people.” Founder’s Inn, May 5. military spouse as well as being the mother of a service member. NAVY MEDICINE Medical Home Port concept unveiled at NMCP, Boone Clinic BY REBECCA A. PERRON concept.” Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Public Affairs The long-term goal is to improve health outcomes for not just one patient, but for all. The Navy’s new Medical Home Port con- While success will not be based on statistics cept has come to life in the Family Medicine such as the number of people seen or pre- Clinic at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth scriptions written, success will be measured and in the Pediatrics Clinic at Adm. Joel T. by the health and continuity of care for the Boone Branch Health Clinic at Joint Expe- patient. Specific health issues will be focused ditionary Base-Little Creek. After ribbon on in the adult community: high blood pres- cuttings held at NMCP and BHC Boone sure, high cholesterol and quitting smoking. May 3 and 4, respectively, the model for this For children, the focus will be on asthma con- new health care approach is now a reality. trol, childhood obesity and immunizations. Navy Medicine introduced the concept “This is a big transition and a philosophical last fall, and the two clinics are the first in shift for us, from the expectation that our pa- Hampton Roads to implement it. Medical tients will see us for acute care to one that’s Home Port is derived from Medical Home, more focused on teaming up our patients a new and more effective approach that is with our group of doctors, nurses, corpsmen being embraced in the civilian medical com- and LPNs to really focus on preventative care munity. The concept centers on a health and maintenance,” said Cmdr. Thomas San- team that collaborates to provide the best ta, Family Medicine clinic manger. “We want health care for the patient. Photo by Rebecca A. Perron them to get to know this panel in its entire- “The idea behind Medical Home Port is Adm. Joel T. Boone Branch Health Clinic held a ribbon-cutting ceremony May 4 for the opening ty so we can better look at when our patients that medical care is there to meet the needs of the Pediatrics Medical Home Port Clinic. Front row, from left, Cmdr. Michael T. DeWitt II, need such things as mammograms, healthy of the patient based on access and time- JEB-Little Creek executive officer; Capt. Rick Freedman, Primary Care and Branch Health women exams and child wellness exams. Or liness,” said Rear Adm. William R. Kiser, Clinics director; Cmdr. Rees Lee, head of NMCP Pediatrics Clinic; Rear Adm. William R. Kiser, say for our diabetics, when they need to com- commander, NMCP, during the Family Med- commander, NMCP; center, and Cmdr. Judy Walker, officer-in-charge Boone BHC, right, are plete certain blood tests or screenings. icine ribbon cutting. joined by the four Pediatric Medical Home Port providers. “So when a patient sees the team, the team With Medical Home Port, patients receive will already have an idea of their situation more personalized care that is coordinated ahead of time. And it’s also the perfect way by an entire team, not just one primary care for patients to take an even more active part provider. Patients also have a special phone in their care. We want our patients to see us number and e-mail to reach their team. when they are well, not just when they feel “Medical Home Port is a dynamic part- sick,” Santa added. nership between the patient and his or her About 7,000 patients are enrolled to the health care team,” said Capt. Rick Freed- Pediatrics Medical Home Port clinic, while man, Primary Care and Branch Health the Family Medicine Medical Home Port Clinics director. “The primary care provid- clinic has about 2,500 patients. Each clinic er and the Medical Home Port team provide will soon be sending out letters to their pa- access to care and continuity of care, and im- tients to explain the concept behind the new prove overall health outcomes to those we approach. are blessed to serve – our war fighters and “We want to introduce it to our families, the families who support them.” mealed care from people who may not know We now have a morning and an afternoon hoping to foster interest and communication Primary care is the gateway; specialists, the whole situation. Now they have an entire acute care appointment slot for each pro- about the new approach to delivering prima- referrals and networking support are con- team following their care.” vider every day to make sure a patient sees ry care to this population,” said Cmdr. Judy sulted when needed. For now, the Home Previously, when a patient’s primary care someone within their team.” Walker, Boone BHC officer-in-charge. “We Port focuses on the patient’s initial access to provider did not have an opening, the patient Cely said that daily and weekly meetings are excited to be introducing this patient- the system. was given an appointment with another pro- by the entire team to discuss process im- centered approach that will allow is to better “Medical Home Port is designed to give vider, fragmenting care. provements have also been added to their partner with our family members to better patients that one number and one person to “In the past, when a provider had their schedules, and patients will benefit. address their health care needs.” call to answer questions such as, ‘How do I appointment calendar full, and we were try- “We have been communicating a lot Next up for implementation of the Medi- make an appointment?’, ‘What do these test ing to walk in three additional acute care more and providing feedback to each oth- cal Home Port concept is clinics at Branch results mean?’ and ‘What immunizations do I patients, it became more difficult for the pro- er, which is resulting in better care for the Health Clinic Oceana at Naval Air Station need to get?’,” Freedman continued. “A team viders and the patients,” said Lt. Dinorah patients,” Cely said. “And, our teams have al- Oceana and Branch Health Clinic Sewells of providers who will know the patient and Cely, division officer for Pediatrics Medical ready started explaining the new concept to Point at Naval Station Norfolk. Eventually, who the patient is familiar with will provide Home Port at Boone. “Now we have a dif- our patients, and the feedback so far is ex- Navy Medicine plans to incorporate this con- a continuity of care instead of getting piece- ferent way to manage making appointments. citement about continuity and the team care cept into its entire operation. CORE: The CORE Spring Conference held at Naval Station Norfolk’s Vista Point Center, Monday, featured Deborah Mullen, wife of Adm. Mike Mullen

Continued from page A1 to address that with the individ- uals and their families. This is was, “Where do you think spouse something that I will have to take leadership will go in 2010.” back to Admiral (Gary) Roughead Mullen responded, “I believe to and General (Norton) Schwartz have families continuously ready, as the Air Force is dealing with there are issues that families deal these same issues. with on a daily basis; they have “There are two reasons that I to be ready and resilient and the came here tonight - the first is to only way to be ready if they don’t support my wife of almost 40 years already know, is for us to provide … When I got selected to this job, the tools. one of the things Deb said to me “That is what spouse leaders was, ‘What am I going to do?’” the do – they understand where the Admiral John Admiral continued. “And I think resources are, they understand C. Harvey, Jr., that she pretty well answered that what tools are available and they Commander, U.S. Fleet question. Her focus on families get that word out,” she said. Forces Command has been remarkable.” Mullen stressed the importance introduces He continued, “The other rea- of communication and access to Deborah Mullen at son that I came tonight was to say information. the CORE Spring thanks. We have a special appreci- “Even with Twitter, Facebook, Conference held at ation for what it takes with respect Naval Station Norfolk’s cell phones and E-mail, we are Vista Point Center, to families. I believe the relation- still unable to reach those fami- Monday. ship between our families and our lies in need,” she said. mission over the last decade has She was clear that it is as im- on your social networking sites,” been strongly reinforced.” portant to prepare families for she said. At the conclusion of the question pre-deployment, as it is to prepare “I think what we have to do is and answer period with the admiral them for the imminent return embrace it. I am on Twitter and and his wife, a Sea Services pan- and reintegrating the military Facebook; my husband is on Twit- el comprised of spouses of senior member into the family. Accord- ter … It has been a great learning leaders in the Hampton Road area. ing to Mullen, spouse leadership experience,” she said. The panel of four included Mimi is a vital role, which impacts the Mullen said that seeing what Donnelly, wife of Vice Admiral John families as well as the overall mis- people are re-Tweeting, allows J. Donnelly, Commander, Subma- sion. her insight into what is important rine Forces; Donna Williams, wife Mullen meets with spouses at to families. of Vice Admiral Mel Williams, Jr., installations at home and abroad, “I don’t think a spouse would Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet; Bar- to get at the heart of the issues intentionally put anything on bara Natonski, wife of Lt. Gen. affecting families and their qual- any kind of a site that would en- Richard F. Natonski, Commander ity of life. danger anybody, but I think that of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Com- For more than three years she they need to understand and mand and Kristen Cook, the wife has traveled with her husband they need to be educated about of Admiral Kevin Cook is Director around the world in support of in- how to properly do it,” she cau- of Prevention Policy for the Coast ternational relations and military tioned. “We do not want to put Guard. family readiness. anything out there that would For more informa- A common question, in regard endanger lives.” tion about CORE call your to family readiness, is the use of One of the tougher questions representative at 444-2102. Or

Social Networking, such a Flickr, of the night was with the rise in Photos by Micheal T. Mink visit the website https://www. Facebook, and twitter – and numbers of Individual Augmen- Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, Adm. Mike Mullen spoke on behalf of the cnic.navy.mil/NorfolkSTA/ how to effectively communicate tees that the Navy is providing to Navy’s IA program. He said that, “IAs by some definition are more vulnera- FleetFamilyReadiness/NORFOLKHamp- through social networking tools efforts around the globe, and the ble and we will have to address that with the individuals and their families. tonRoads/index.htm. while maintaining operational se- amount of post traumatic stress, This is something that I will have to take back to Admiral (Gary) Roughead You can follow Deborah Mullen curity. domestic violence and suicidal and General (Norton) Schwartz as the Air Force is dealing with these same on Twitter, @deborahmullen. She “The issue of security is the situations on the rise amongst the issues.” is also on Facebook at www.face- same thing as if you were talk- IA community, how as a spouse swer that,” she said. important that spouse leaders book.com/Deborahmullen2. You ing on the phone. If you would leader, does she support the IA “Deb and I both struggled recognize the traits and how to can follow Adm. Mullen on Twit- not talk about operations on the program? when we kicked off the Navy’s IA respond accordingly. ter, @thejointstaff or check out his phone and we would not put them “Actually, why don’t I just bring program,” said Admiral Mullen. “IAs by some definition are Facebook at www.facebook.com/ in an e-mail then don’t talk about it my husband in and have him an- The Chairman noted that it is more vulnerable and we will have admiralmikemullen. FLOOD: Navy Personnel Command with the assistance of NSA personnel, have restored the majority of services that support the fleet after flood

Continued from page A1 ry boards are back up and have been tested. Electronic Service Record (ESR), Web- She also asked the fleet to limit calls to However, some systems that support Enlist- Enabled Record Review (WERR), Career emergencies this week as they move people “Also I would ask those who submitted any ed Boards are not up. Once the final systems Management System/Interactive Detailing into offices and set up phones and comput- information via fax after 30 April to resubmit are up and tested for the enlisted (CMS/ID), Perform to Serve (PTS) ers. the information electronically.” boards we’ll update the sched- and Fleet Rating Identification The NSA base commanding officer has Electrical power and most phones were re- ule,” said Capt. Leo Falardeau, Engine (FleetRIDE), Physical warned it could take months to complete the stored by May 6 and some personnel began NPC assistant command- Readiness Information Man- building renovations for NPC’s most severe- to return to business. er for Career Progression. agement System (PRIMS) ly damaged spaces according to Stewart. “The www.npc.navy.mil Web site is back “The active 0-4 Staff Board and the Navy Standard In- Stewart is committed to being back to pro- online, but at this time we have no ability to has now been rescheduled tegrated Personnel System viding full level of service to the Fleet soon change or add information to the front page to convene on May 20. No (NSIPS) which serve the as possible. of the site. We will update information as boards have been cancelled. whole Navy and all are back “As we continue to do reconstruction over soon as we can but until then we are still us- Everyone will still get their on line. the next months there may be short peri- ing social media avenues to inform the fleet,” chance in front of their board.” “Navy Personnel Command ods of power outages and loss of connectivity said Lt. Cmdr. Barbara Mertz, NPC public af- According to Falardeau, the Ac- is basically open for business,” and we would appreciate people’s continued fairs officer. tive E-7 Board is a priority and NPC is said Ann Stewart, deputy commander, understanding while we recover from this Some selection boards were affected by working to minimize impact on the fleet to Navy Personnel Command. significant event,” said Stewart. the flood, the E-8 Active Duty board was have a full as possible “induction season” for “We still would like the fleet to have some For more news, visit www.navy.mil, or the suspended and the O-4 Staff Board was post- the new chief selects. patience with us as we finish bringing the Navy Detailer’s Facebook page www.Face- poned along with some Admin Screening Today, PERSNET is back on-line. It hosts systems back up and getting the last of our book.com/navypersonnelcommand. boards. BUPERS on Line (BOL), Electronic Mili- folks relocated into new spaces,” said Stew- See page A3 for more on the Millington flood “The systems that support officer statuto- tary Personnel Records System (EMPRS), art. relief efforts.

Rear Admiral John W. Goodwin to retire

NORFOLK — Rear Admi- ral Bill Goodwin will retire from the U.S. Navy following a 35-year career in a ceremo- ny aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) pierside at Na- val Station Norfolk on Friday, March 14. Goodwin most recently Rear Admiral served as the Assistant Chief John W. Goodwin USS Hurricane out, USS De Wert in of Naval Operation, Next Gen- eration Enterprise Network (ACNO NGEN) in PRESS RELEASE Bath Iron Works, in Bath, participating is the guid- rounding tri-state area to Washington, DC. Prior to that, he served in the Nor- Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs Maine; launched on De- ed-missile cruiser USS meet Sailors, Marines and folk area as the Commander, Naval Air Force U.S. cember 18, 1982; and Philippine Sea (CG 58), Coast Guardsmen, as well Atlantic Fleet (AIRLANT). Due to operational commissioned on Novem- homeported in Mayport, as see, firsthand, the latest A native of. Dublin, Georgia, Goodwin graduat- commitments the USS ber 19, 1983. Fla. capabilities of today’s mar- ed from the University of South Carolina and was Hurricane (PC 2) will not As of May 2009, De USS Iwo Jima will be itime services. commissioned in May of 1975. He earned master’s longer be able to partic- Wert is captained by Com- berthed in Manhattan; and More information is degrees from the Naval Post-graduate School and ipate in Fleet Week New mander Sean G. McLaren; the rest of the Navy ships available on the official the Naval War College. York 2010. she is part of the Atlantic will be berthed at Stat- Fleet Week New York City Goodwin was designated a naval aviator in 1977 With the USS Hurri- Fleet’s Destroyer Squad- en Island. Approximately website at https://www. and has experience flying the A-7E Corsair and the cane out, the USS De Wert ron 14 and homeported at 3,000 Sailors, Marines and cnic.navy.mil/cnrma/Pro- F/A-18 Hornet. He served as the commanding offi- (FFG 45) will be joining six Naval Station Mayport, in Coast Guardsmen from grams/FWNY/index.htm cer of Strike Fighter Squadron 94 and the underway other Navy ships for Fleet Jacksonville, Fla. the U.S. Navy, Marine and/or on Fleet Week replenishment ship USS Rainier (AOE 7) and was Week New York 2010. Hampton Roads-based Corps and Coast Guard New York’s Facebook at the first commanding officer of the nuclear-powered USS De Wert, an Oliver ships still participating will participate in the 23rd http://bit.ly/czUESg. To aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). As Hazard Perry-class frigate, in this year’s Fleet Week annual Fleet Week New find out more about what a Flag Officer, Goodwin served a tour of duty with is a named for Hospital- commemoration are the York, which will take place the Marines are doing go the U.S. European Command in Stuttgart, Germany; man Richard De Wert. multi-purpose amphibious May 26 – June 2. to their Facebook at www. commanded the Abraham Lincoln Strike Group and De Wert was posthu- assault ship USS Iwo Jima Held nearly every year facebook.com/nycma- served as AIRLANT Commander prior to assuming mously awarded the Medal (LHD 7), the guided-mis- since 1984, Fleet Week rines. the duties of ACNO NGEN. of Honor for his heroism sile destroyer USS James New York is the city’s while serving with the 7th E. Williams (DDG 95), celebration of the sea Marines during the Kore- and patrol coastal ships services. This event also an War. USS Tempest (PC 2), USS provides an opportuni- De Wert was laid down Monsoon (PC 4) and the ty for the citizens of New on June 14, 1982 by the USS Squall (PC 7). Also York City and the sur- SECTION B FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM May 13, 2010 Ten Sailors set out to conquer the Chesapeake BY MC1 (AW) TIM COMERFORD The Flagship Staff Writer

NORFOLK — A crew of 10 active duty sailors is attempt- ing to row and sail a 26-foot long Monomoy Pulling Boat across Chesapeake Bay from Cape Hen- ry to Cape Charles, a distance of 16 nautical miles over open water, May 15. The idea to do this came from a college that Lt. William King, the boat’s coxswain, graduated from. “The college I went to fosters this kind of training as part of up and coming offi cers,” The State

University of New York Maritime Photo courtesy Lt. William King College graduate said. “When we The Sailors will use a Monomoy Pulling Boat to cross from Cape Henry to Cape Charles and back on a two day trip. The crew will not use found the boat on Naval Station electronics to guide them or help propel the boat instead they will use seamanship skills and raw strength. Norfolk, it seemed like the natural thing to do with it.” The boats crew joined from have been coming out ever since ditional seamanship skills. Even without the aid of electronic devic- won’t make it,” King explained. word of mouth. and passing the word on to their navigation is traditional and no es, sailing under wind power and Propulsion is achieved with no “They saw us out in the water friends.” electronic or electronic devices boat handling. The whole crew more than oars and its sail. or they heard us talking about it With no engine, the crossing will be used. has to work together to make at the offi ce,” King said. “Folks is a test of strength and their tra- “It tests skills like navigating this thing happen, if they don’t we See CHESAPEAKE, B9 NMCB 7 Seabees keep ‘Can Do’ spirit in Djibouti

STORY AND PHOTO BY camp construction and maintenance MC2 PATRICK GORDON is only part of the Seabees’ job here. USS Nassau Public Affairs “Our main objective here is human- itarian projects,” said Engineering CAMP LEMONNIER, Djibouti Aide 2nd Class (SCW) Gregg Morris — Seabees from Naval Mobile Con- of Pawtucket, R.I. “Normally, Sea- struction Battalion (NMCB) 7 have bees go on six month deployments, been lending their support and ex- but NMCB 7 is currently on a 10 pertise to Camp Lemonnier and the month deployment. I think we can surrounding communities in Dji- really do a lot of good in the commu- bouti since relieving NMCB 3 in nity with that extra time.” February. Morris mentioned that the current There are currently 118 Seabees deployment is one of the longest that from NMCB 7 operating in fi ve for- the Seabees have done in years. ward-of-the-line areas including Working alongside Djiboutians, the Moroni, Comoros, Dikhil, Djibouti, Seabees are currently tackling sev- Manda Bay and Gil Gil, Kenya and eral projects, including construction Dire Dawa, Ethiopia of a school in Comoros and a water The Seabees arrived in Djibouti distribution concrete pad in Naghad, Equipment Operator 3rd Class Brandon Jeans of Ellijay, Ga., a Seabee with Naval Mobile Construction in 2005, and the camp’s expansion Battalion (NMCB) 7, drives a forklift under the supervision of Equipment Operator 2nd Class (SCW) is largely due to their efforts. But See SEABEE SPIRIT, B9 Michael Chevere of New York, during preparations for a water well drilling operation.

Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Sara Allison Part of Lt. Carmelo Ayala’s job involves keeping not only Sailors and aviators from the Photo by Army Sgt. Richard Gilbert squadrons healthy, but also taking care of the staff at the Branch Health Clinic Oceana, th th Sergeant Latanya Dineyazhe, a cargo specialist with 368 Seaport Operations Company, 11 including HM3 Drew Kastelic. Ayala, who is the assistant head of Operational Medicine th Transportation Battalion, 7 Sustainment Brigade embraces her brother Adrian Dineyazhe as and the clinical manager for Aviation Medicine, was selected as Naval Medical Center he cries tears of joy at her safe return from a second deployment to Iraq within three years. Portsmouth’s Senior Nurse of the Year. Soldiers return to JEB Oceana nurse earns from operations support top award at NMCP PRESS RELEASE ing and shipping containers. They were JEB Little Creek-Fort Story PAO BY CATHY HEIMER responsible for a vital resupply point that Jet Observer Ayala attributes his career suc- Approximately 50 Soldiers of the Sec- managed a distributed more than one-mil- cess to “a combination of teamwork, ond Platoon, 368th Seaport operations lion pallets of supplies throughout Iraq. A childhood decision to pursue a ca- mentorship and dedication to hard Company, 11th Transportation Battal- While answering the call to serve, the reer in medicine, along with his drive work. ion, 7th Sustainment Brigade, returned unit’s mission changed several times dur- to succeed, has helped propel Lt. Car- “I’ll give the Navy what they pay me to the Fort Story Campus of the Joint Ex- ing their deployment. Each time, they melo Ayala from the Branch Health for,” he said. peditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story rose to the occasion to meet mission Clinic (BHC) at NAS Oceana to earn The teamwork and mentorship recently following a year long deployment needs. These changes took them from the Naval Medical Center Ports- comes from his staff, the fl ight sur- in support Overseas Contingency Opera- Contingency Operating Base Adder to mouth (NMCP) Senior Nurse of the geons and corpsmen, colleagues, tions. Convoy Support Center, Ceder II and to Year. chain of command, and even his The group was welcomed back my Forward Operating Base Kalsu. The announcement of the top friends and his wife, Michelle Ipolani Capt. Charles L. Stuppard, commander, The Joint Expeditionary Base was es- awards came just ahead of Nation- Ayala, all whom have contributed to JEB Little Creek-Fort Story, Lt. Col. Jayne tablished on Oct. 1, 2009 and is one of the al Nurses Week, which is celebrated his success. Jansen, deputy commander, JEBLCFS fi rst Joint Bases within the Department May 6 -12 this year. He reported to BHC Oceana in No- and Col. Robert Irick, commander, 11th of Defense. It is one command with two “I’m very grateful and very hum- vember 2007, as the assistant head of Transportation Battalion, 7th Sustainment properties and comprised of more than bled by the title. There are a lot of the Operational Medicine, consisting Brigrade. 18,000 expeditionary worriers ranging nurses at Portsmouth. I’m just over- of audiology, overseas screening, oc- During the 12-month deployment to from Sailors, to Soldiers, to Marines and whelmed by my selection,” he said. “I cupational medicine and preventive Iraq, the unit was responsible for receiv- Coast Guardsmen. work hard but I didn’t know I worked that hard!” See NURSE, B9 HOMEFRONT NEWS us the results of surveys conducted signed a topic and asked to provide it might be diffi cult for Congress to about military families. She talked hypothetical recommendations for make the recommendations a reali- SPOUSE about military families’ common improving that issue. Tables were ty with enough votes or funding. characteristics and risk factors, dif- also asked who we would summon I’m glad that over a hundred of ferences between family impact in before Congress for questioning on our country’s leaders are recogniz- Military Spouse Summit previous and more recent confl icts the issue and what we would ask. ing the connection between strong BY MICHELLE GALVEZ they needed to know to pass laws to and how military families and their The recommendations presented families and a strong force. I appre- Navy spouse, journalist benefi t our families. Naive or win, civilian counterparts differ. would all certainly benefi t military ciate the mission and purpose of win all around? “There is now a tsunami of re- families dealing with each of those the Congressional Military Fami- About a month ago I heard The fi rst inkling that I might need search being done, but it will take key issues. But to see any of it com- ly Caucus: Educating members of about a Military Spouse Summit to remove my rose-colored glass- fi ve to 10 years to determine the ing true, I think I might have to put Congress on challenges we face in Washington D.C. hosted by the es was the agenda which included outcomes,” Wadsworth explained. those rose-colored glasses back on. on a daily basis; promoting our Congressional Military Family Cau- four guest speakers and less than “But as scientists, we have a respon- On military child education, for interests, developing supportive leg- cus. Since I love an opportunity to two hours for spouse team discus- sibility to make sense of it all.” example, our table recommend- islation and making sure our issues give my two cents, especially on sion. I wondered if the plan involved It was validating to hear that stud- ed DoD schools on CONUS bases and concerns are properly identi- anything that might benefi t military more talking to us, rather than hear- ies are being done to quantify the to create continuity and a military fi ed, addressed and resolved. families, I sent in an application. ing from us. I remained optimistic challenges that military families ex- family world-wide school district; tu- I hope it’s more than political The paperwork asked about the because a stop at IKEA was also on perience. But it was also a case of ition vouchers for military kids to lip service. However, by not being top issues facing military families my agenda. I set the GPS and waved preaching to the choir as probably go to private schools when public there to shake hands, ask questions and how to solve them. The only ca- good-bye to my children. every military spouse in the room schools were low performing or not and hear what the invited spous- veat was participants would need The summit took place in the related to the studies’ results. Our providing adequate special needs es had to say they sent a deliberate their own travel money since the House offi ce building next to the community has a lot of diversity, in- programs; and connecting federal message: We care but we have a House has ethics rules that prevent Capitol. We were greeted warmly cludes many special needs children impact aid for schools to states’ ac- funny way of showing it. If they re- payment for opinions. and given the ground rules: fi rst- and it is challenging to deal with de- ceptance and implementation of the ally wanted to get a perspective on I quickly forgot about it and got names only and no mention of our ployment, moving, the ebb and fl ow Interstate Compact on Educational what makes the military family tick, caught up in mommy duties, so I spouse’s rank or job. Since spouses of careers, while maintaining mar- Opportunity for Military Children. the members of the Congressional was surprised when I got an E-mail don’t offi cially have rank, speaking ital quality and stability with one The military childcare group Military Family Caucus would have inviting me to the summit. Seven- freely was encouraged. Good thing partner frequently absent. would provide enough funding to stuck around for their own Spouse ty out of 500 spouses who applied too, because it was later revealed We also heard from the director retain and train qualifi ed providers Summit. were selected to attend. After re- that the wives of the chairman of of Brainline.org, a traumatic brain and standardize all DoD centers. I’m honored to have been a part arranging appointments, car pools the joint chiefs and several four injury resource website; the direc- The healthcare group would stan- of such a meeting. I just hope our and child care I was looking for- stars were also in attendance. tor of the Federal Voting Assistance dardize Tricare regions under one contributions, when typed up and ward to a productive day in D.C. We were welcomed via a pre- Program; and Alison Buckholtz, a administrative agency, make sure E-mailed to various members of I hoped it would be a great oppor- recorded video stating that most Navy spouse who wrote “Standing providers receive prompt payments Congress, will effect positive out- tunity for dialogue between elected members of Congress had left town By: The Making of An American and attract more and better quality comes for our families. offi cials and military spouses. I fi g- after voting the day before and Military Family in a Time of War.” physicians. ured they would ask questions about would not be in attendance. The Caucus had already identifi ed The spouse education group Michelle Galvez is a Navy spouse, the good, bad and the ugly of mil- We started with an overview of the key military family issues: mental asked for full funding of the MyCAA journalist, ombudsman and mother itary family life. Then with our 20th century military family with Dr. health, education, healthcare, fami- account program. who lives in Virginia Beach with her homefront experience and great Shelley MacDermid Wadsworth of lies with special needs and spouse Because the questions were of the husband and children. Contact her at ideas we could tell them everything Purdue University who shared with employment. Each table was as- “if you had a magic wand …” variety, [email protected]. p Tidewater Offi cers’ Spouses’ Association MARRIEDto the Military donates $20,000 to area charities PRESS RELEASE • Seton Youth Shelters

Tidewater Officers’ Spouses’ Asso- • United Through Reading Phases of deployment ciation (TOSA) and The Tidewater Collection gift shop hosted their an- • Web of Life Animal Outreach, through a spouse’s eyes nual Charity Event and May Tent Inc. Sale on May 5 at Ely Hall, Naval Sta- BY BIANCA tion Norfolk. TOSA members and Representatives of these charities MARTINEZ Reach out to NewsChannel 3’s Bianca gift shop supporters saw first hand were present to share a few words Martinez at [email protected]. how their shopping dollars bene- about their organizations and to Be sure to check out “Do My Military Job” fit the community as TOSA gave thank TOSA. Seton Youth Shelter’s Ugh. I am every Wednesday at 11 p.m. $20,000 to 16 charities. representative shared the story of there. We are at on NewsChannel 3! one of their members. A troubled the point where 2010 CHARITY RECIPIENTS youth who needed a place to stay we have to look and get back on his feet, he found into the near done! • Mercy Medical Airlift Command/ Seton Youth Shelter. With their help future and plan The second phase involves those slow Air Compassion for Veterans he was able to realize his dream of for deployment. moving days – the “Dragging Phase.” I being a Marine and was sent to Af- It’s not like it’s am telling you days are longer, weeks • Air Force Enlisted Village ghanistan. In a very bittersweet end tomorrow, but soon enough that it seems are stretched and the first two months to the story, he was killed in action. everything in the house is starting to feel like three. You totally are moving • Armed Services YMCA In addition to the named organi- be affected by daddy’s trip. It’s weird in on. That’s not a problem anymore. zations, TOSA also raised $860 for a way that a day does not go by without That “Anxious Phase,” no joke, leaves • CaringBridge.org Tragedy Assistance Program for thinking about a deployment. As you your gut the second you said goodbye. Survivors (TAPS). TAPS is an or- read this I bet you are going, “Oh yeah, That’s when it clicks in that you have • CASA ganization that “offers emotional totally!” I have watched friends go a job to do as the spouse at home and (Court Appointed Special Advo- support to the family and friends through their first deployments and it you are in the zone. Well, you are in cates) of military personnel who have has been confirmed. Whether it’s your the zone until you get in bed every died while serving their country, first or eleventh (like ours), it’s the night and actually have some time to • Cerebral Palsy of Virginia helping them cope and heal in the same pattern. think. Then all you can think about are aftermath of their loss.” The Tide- There are the “3 Phases of the days you still have to get through • EDMARC Hospice for Children water Collection has had an ongoing Deployment,” usually. The first is that without your best friend by your side. relationship with TAPS. Funds gen- “Anxious Phase.” That is where I Sometimes in this phase it is easy to • Fisher House erated through the sale of TAPS am right now. I am dreading the day hit a wall, but remember someone will bracelets are given directly back to I actually take him to work and feel always be there to help you get over it. • Honor Flight Historic this organization. that drop in my stomach. Having to In our community there is always going Triangle Virginia Since the early 1990s, TOSA has give hubster that last kiss for a very to be someone who lets you use their operated the gift shop, The Tidewa- long time. Not only is it emotionally hand for a head start over to the other • Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund ter Collection, located in Ely Hall, draining, phase 1, but it is also jam side. for the purpose of raising money for packed. You have trips to see his side Then the half way point rolls around • Naval Services FamilyLine charitable organizations that bene- of the family and trips to see your side and your focus can shift. You hit the final fit military families in the Hampton of the family, because they love him so phase the “He’s Almost Home Phase.” • Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Roads area. The shop is run entirely much. You want to make sure the kids I love it! I love it! I love it! You actually by volunteers. Anyone interested in are getting in all of the time they need find encouragement when you look on • Operation Homefront, learning more about TOSA and the to be okay with saying goodbye. It’s the calendar. You can actually see that Hampton Roads shop may call 444-5255. the phase where you are trying to fit you made it through all of those slow in as much as you can, because really, moving days and they really did count!  what if it truly is the last time you have. This is the fun phase because you start Then you have to get over that fear planning for his return. Maybe you have and charge forward with getting it all a special surprise you start shopping for right around the corner. The awesome Wow, just writing about that phase or maybe you are one of feeling of anticipation becomes your made me feel better. So here is what I those awesome spouses adrenaline rush to make it through take from that. We can’t get to Phase that got in shape and you the next couple of months or weeks or 3 without Phase 1 ... let’s just get it know the unveiling is days! done!

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. CHANGES OF COMMAND Naval Medical Center Portsmouth changes command

PRESS RELEASE the first command- Surgeon in Norfolk served the health care and Naval Medical Center Portsmouth er of the Medical since 2007 and de- medical needs of the nation’s Public Affairs Education Training ployed as the Joint military continuously since Campus in San Antonio, Task Force Haiti 1830. PORTSMOUTH — Rear Texas. surgeon in January Navy Medicine East is com- Adm. Alton L. “Mike” Stocks Stocks earned his 2010. posed of: became the 73rd commander undergraduate de- Outgoing CO Naval Medical Center of Naval Medical Center Ports- gree in mathematics Kiser has request- Portsmouth; Naval Hospital mouth in a Change of Command from the U.S. Na- ed that staff who Pensacola, Fla.; Naval Hospital ceremony on Friday, May 7. He val Academy, and have deployed since Jacksonville, Fla.; Naval Health also serves as commander of completed the Na- he assumed com- Clinic Corpus Christi, Texas; Navy Medicine East, which in- vy’s Nuclear Power mand in August Naval Hospital Beaufort, S.C.; cludes 14 naval hospitals and Training and Sub- Kiser Stocks 2008 wear their de- Naval Health Clinic Charles- their clinics. marine School and ployment uniform ton, S.C.; Naval Health Clinic Vice Adm. Adam M. Robin- served on USS An- to the ceremony to Cherry Point, N.C.; Naval Hos- son Jr., Surgeon General of the drew Jackson (SSBN 619) and Portsmouth, he served as head show the naval medical cen- pital Camp Lejeune, N.C.; Naval Navy and Chief, Bureau of Med- USS Long Beach (CGN 9). of Pediatrics at U.S. Naval Hos- ter’s commitment to caring for Health Clinic Great Lakes, Ill.; icine and Surgery, was the guest Stocks transferred his commis- pital Rota, Spain. Stocks has the troops overseas and in war Naval Health Care New Eng- speaker at the ceremony. sion to the Medical Corps and also served as executive officer zones. land-Newport, R.I.; Naval Stocks relieves Rear Adm. received his medical degree of U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonel- Nicknamed the “First and Hospital Guantanamo Bay, William R. “Bob” Kiser, who has from Georgetown University la, Italy, and as commanding Finest,” Naval Medical Center Cuba; Naval Hospital Sigonel- commanded the medical cen- School of Medicine. Upon com- officer of Naval Hospital Corpus Portsmouth has the distinction la, Italy; Naval Hospital Naples, ter since August 2008. Later pleting his Pediatric residency Christi, Texas. He has served of being the nation’s first na- Italy; and Naval Hospital Rota, this month, Kiser will become and tenure as chief resident at as U.S. Fleet Forces Command val hospital. It has proudly Spain.

Sharpe assumes command of Surface Warfare Development Group

PRESS RELEASE fleet-wide resource and leader in naval tactics devel- Surface Warfare Development Center Public Affairs opment. DeGeus shared both humorous and challenging VIRGINIA BEACH — Captain Matthew M. Sharpe moments of his career and his history in the Surface assumed command of Surface Warfare Development Warfare community. His speech closed with some of Group (SWDG) relieving Captain Stanley V. DeGeus the most important lessons he learned in his 31 years during a change of command ceremony on board Joint of service. Expeditionary Base (JEB), April 23. “Command is a humbling experience and a Captain Military and civilian guests, SWDG personnel, fam- and leader is only as good as his or her crew,” admits ily and friends were present to bid farewell to DeGeus DeGeus. “I learned that on multiple occasions that I and welcome Sharpe and his family to JEB West had the honor and privilege of working with the finest and the SWDG community. Sharpe is the 17th Com- group of people ever assembled.” mander to command SWDG since its inception in DeGeus Sharpe DeGeus also thanked many of the people who have 1976. helped him during his career including his personal During his speech, DeGeus proudly addressed his Sharpe’s speech followed DeGeus. Enthusiastically mentors, friends and the SWDG staff. “What I found Sailors and Officers during his tenure at SWDG and taking the reins of SWDG, he addressed the crew. in SWDG are THE smartest, most informed and pro- shared some of their accomplishments. “What a great team! The work you do – developing tactics active subject matter experts in the US Navy“ said “As the lead for Readiness Effectiveness Measuring to prepare the surface fleet for battle – is absolutely vital. And DeGeus. “It should come as no surprise that in SWDG programs, you were instrumental in providing criti- it is not done anywhere else” said Sharpe. “You sharpen the I have served with the finest group of Americans, Ca- cal analysis of surface fleet capabilities by developing weapon that is the fleet. I am honoured to be able to command nadians and Australians ever assembled and it was my realistic and extremely detailed observations of sur- you.” honor and privilege to have served with them.” face, subsurface and air assets in tactical situations… Along with turning over command of SWDG, SWDG is the center for the development and SWDG’s legacy and leadership has been character- DeGeus retired following 31 years of naval service. evaluation of fleet tactics in Surface, Air, Under- ized by your face to face engagement with the fleet, The event’s guest speaker was Rear Adm. Kevin M. sea, Electronic, and Amphibious Warfare for today’s an approach which should be taken across the surface Quinn, Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. He complex weapon systems against today’s threat. In warfare enterprise” said DeGeus. “This was done by presented both the Volunteer Service Medal and the addition, it is the Chief of Naval Operations’ Executive all of you! The sailors, government service employees Legion of Merit to DeGeus for his exceptional mer- Agent for the Ship Antisubmarine Warfare and Mine and contractors in SWDG have performed superbly itorious service in raising the standards for SWDG Warfare Readiness and Effectiveness Measuring pro- over the last five years.” and setting it on a course to mature into a valuable gram. NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic Capt. Mark Libonate (L) relieves Changes Command Capt. David Boone as PRESS RELEASE Norfolk April 26. Commanding Naval Facilities Engineering Boone explained that Officer of Command Public Affairs the venue, a maintenance Naval Facilities garage for the Norfolk Engineering Capt. Mark Libonate re- Public Works department Command Mid- lieved Capt. David Boone was in honor of the NAV- Atlantic, in a as Commanding Offi- FAC Mid-Atlantic work ceremony at building LP- cer of Naval Facilities force of more than 3500 on 20 onboard Engineering Command more than 20 installations Naval Station Mid-Atlantic, in a cere- in 14 states. Norfolk, April mony at building LP-20 During the ceremo- 26. onboard Naval Station ny, guest speaker Rear U.S. Navy photo Admiral Mark Boensel, Commander, Navy Re- gion Mid-Atlantic praised Boone’s performance as both NAVFAC Mid-Atlan- tic Commanding Officer and Regional Engineer. “His emphasis on plan- ning, and aggressive project execution have resulted in highly visible improvements in the re- gion’s shore installation readiness, and more im- portantly our service to the fleet.” He cited Boone’s work in Base Re-alignment and Closure, American Recov- ery and Reinvestment Act projects, low impact devel- opment (LID) initiatives, environmental work and the establishment of the Emerging Leadership Pro- gram, along with the day to day work of maintain- ing and improving bases throughout the NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic area of re- sponsibility, which stretches from North Car- olina to Maine. “There is no disputing the numbers, the employ- ees of this command have done extraordinary work to accomplish the mis- sion across the entire area of responsibility,” said Boone. “But it is not the numbers; it is the people I will remember most. Rear Admiral Kev- in Slates, Command NAVFAC Atlantic present- ed Boone with the Legion of Merit for his work over the last 19 months at NAV- FAC Mid-Atlantic. Boone, who has recently been se- lected for advancement to Rear Admiral, will report to his next assignment as Director, Shore Read- iness Division (N-46) on the Chief of Naval Opera- tion’s staff. Libonate comes to NAV- FAC Mid-Atlantic from NAVFAC Atlantic where he served as Operations Officer. In his remarks, he told NAVFAC Mid-At- lantic employees that he was honor to be their next Commanding Officer. “I know together we will face many exciting chal- lenges and many exciting opportunities,” he said. “I am confident that we will succeed together as a team.” The Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) manages the planning, design, con- struction, contingency engineering, real estate, environmental, and pub- lic works support for U.S. Navy shore facilities around the world. NAVFAC provides the Navy’s forces with the op- erating, expeditionary, support and training bas- es they need. NAVFAC is a global organization with an annual volume of business in excess of $18 billion. As a major Navy Sys- tems Command and an integral member of the Navy and Marine Corps team, NAVFAC delivers timely and effective facili- ties engineering solutions worldwide. Additional up- dates and information about NAVFAC can be found on social media sites Facebook and Twitter. Become a Fan at www. facebook.com/navfac and follow us at www.twitter. com/navfac. JEB LC-FS honored with two Arbor Day Foundation awards PRESS RELEASE tress to help stabilize the installations Joint Expeditionary Base dunes along its beaches. This program Little Creek-Fort Story Public Affairs had a 1,000% increase in support from the previous season. Another contributing The Joint Expeditionary Base Little factor noted by Bell was the efforts to min- Creek-Fort Story was recently recognized imize tree losses, including limiting dead by the Arbor Day Foundation for its envi- tree removal. ronmental stewardship of the base. The Earning the 13th consecutive Tree City installation received its 13th consecutive USA community designation, the Joint Tree City USA designation and was also Expeditionary Base had to meet four stan- honored with a Tree City USA Growth dards. They include having a tree board or Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Gina K. Wollman Award. department, a tree care ordinance, a com- Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Brittany Haynes and Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Belinda The Tree City USA award recognizes prehensive community forestry program, Washington demonstrate proper dental care during the Women’s Health Fair held aboard the installations commitment to its and an Arbor Day observance and Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). urban forestry program. The proclamation. prestigious Growth Award “Communities that are hon- recognizes the installa- ored with a Tree City USA Eisenhower hosts tions commitment to designation and a Growth raising the level with Award make a strong regards to environmen- commitment to planting Women’s Health Fair tal improvements as and caring for trees, and well as a commitment we applaud their efforts,” BY MC2 JESSE DICK to higher levels of tree said John Rosenow, chief USS Dwight D. Eisenhower care on base. executive and founder of Public Affairs “This is really great to re- the Arbor Day Foundation. ceive these awards, “We also commend a USS DWIGHT D. especially the community’s... of- EISENHOWER, At sea Growth Award,” ficials, volunteers — USS Dwight D. Eisen- stated Sara Bell, and its citizens for hower’s (CVN 69) Health Natural Resource providing needed Services Department Specialist for the Joint Expeditionary care for its trees. They recognize held a Women’s Health Base. “These truly are installation awards! that trees provide numerous environmen- Fair, May 1, offering crew From the outstanding support from the tal, economical and health benefits for the members a one-stop shop installations leadership to all the support community every day.” of medical information fo- received from the volunteers from the var- The Tree City USA program is spon- cusing on women’s health ious resident commands on base for our sored by the Arbor Day Foundation in issues. programs, it’s truly amazing.” cooperation with the National Association Eisenhower’s Senior JEB Little Creek-Fort Story received of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Medical Officer, Cmdr. the Tree City USA Growth Award specif- Service. Jeanette Shimkus, said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Ruth Gastreich (R) shows ically for demonstrating progress in its The Arbor Day Foundation is a nonprofit, with number of female ser- Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 3rd Class Laura Gregg the correct community forestry program in the areas environmental and educational organiza- way to brush her teeth during the Women’s Health Fair. vice members increasing of partnerships, land-use planning coordi- tion of nearly one million members, with a every day, it only makes wants all Sailors to know AOR are focused on reas- nation, tree planting and maintenance, and mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, sense to address health that Health Services is all suring regional partners recycling. and celebrate trees. concerns that impact the about “comfort and care of the coalition’s commit- According to Bell, the specific proj- More information about Tree City USA “female warrior.” - an area that people can ment to help set conditions ects that lead to the Growth Award were can be found at www.arborday.org/TreeCity- “The important thing come and ask a question for security and stabili- the 2008-2009 Christmas tree recycling USA. Additional information on the Arbor to remember and recog- and not be afraid.” ty. U.S. forces maintain a program and the increased project coordi- Day Foundation and its programs can be nize is that women have Eisenhower is under- naval and air presence in nation support requiring natural resources found at www.arborday.org. For more infor- unique medical needs and way as part of a regularly the region that deters de- approval for tree felling and native land- mation on the Navy’s ongoing environmental concerns, and identifying scheduled deployment to stabilizing activities while scaping. stewardship programs, see www.enviro-na- these key medical issues the U.S. 5th Fleet area of safeguarding the region’s The recycling program uses the expired vair.navy.mil/currents.cfm. positively affects the force responsibility (AOR). Op- vital links to the global integration of women,” erations in the 5th Fleet economy. said Shimkus. Information and dis- plays covered such topics as contraception, oral health issues, breast health, physical fitness, eating disorders, sexual- ly transmitted diseases, labor anesthesia, fetal al- cohol syndrome and spa associated infections (manicure/pedicure fun- gal infections). The health fair was de- signed to share information that helps motivate female Sailors to maintain their highest levels of physical, psychological, and physio- logical health, said Cmdr. Susan Chacon, one of the event’s coordinators. Health Services’ mis- sion is to support the Navy Medicine mission, which includes keeping Sailors healthy and fit for full duty status, said Shimkus. The health fair helped ensure that the Eisenhower’s female Sail- ors are armed with the right information about current health issues, and it also allowed them to dis- cuss topics they may shy away from during regular health check-ups. Shimkus added that one of the goals of the fair was to help females aboard Eisenhower get to know the medical staff. She NAVY MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY Super volunteer retires from NMCRS Newport

BY BOB KREKORIAN Birdy has been volun- Naval Station Newport Public Affairs teering and providing services to Navy and Ma- NEWPORT, R.I. — rine Corps families for 47 Mickey Birdy, a volunteer years. “Her decades of ex- at the Navy-Marine Corps perience make her a vital Relief Society (NMCRS) asset to the thrift shop,” Relief Thrift Shop, at Naval Sta- Smith said. tion Newport, has logged “She is the best example Services more than 34,116 hours that I know of a dedicated of volunteer service at the and selfless volunteer who Assistant shop since 1963. donates her time, energy, NMCRS Norfolk At age 87, Birdy is not and talents to assist mili- your typical little old lady. tary families,” Smith said. Navy-Marine Most of her years of volun- “She is everyone’s best Corps Relief Society teering were as a knitter resource here,” said shop (NMCRS) has an open- and crocheter. She hasn’t volunteer Connie Gold- ing for a full-time (40 demonstrated any signs of man. hrs/wk) Relief Servic- letting up, but she is mak- Birdy continues to main- es Assistant. ing plans to relocate in tain a regular schedule on U.S. Navy Photo The position pro- early June to Austin, Tex- Mondays, Tuesdays, and Mickey Birdy, 87 years old is planning to move to Austin, Texas, a retirement of sorts after her vides administrative volunteering at NMCRS for 47 years. as where she will live with Thursdays at the thrift support to the Director her daughter, Nancy. shop of greeting shop cus- person of her age, she con- “I have to be busy all the week period at the Naval and supports a team of “Mickey is truly one of a tomers, and doing what has tinues to be active, nimble, time,” she said. Birdy con- Training Center at Hunter Volunteers who pro- kind,” said Nancy Martin to be done. Despite having and brisk. She still does tinues to drive her car from College, Bronx, N.Y. vide relief assistance to Smith, shop supervisor. her share of ailments for a housework, too. her home in nearby Mid- Birdy served eight years service members in the dletown, R.I. before being discharged as Norfolk area. The ideal Her work on Mondays a Storekeeper 2nd Class. candidate will have HS consists of pricing donated “I enjoyed it and loved diploma or GED, ex- merchandise and putting it,” she said. perience in data entry, The gift of long service items on display. In addition to her volun- strong organization- “Mickey is a very special teering over the years at al and administrative lady,” said Pat Drislane, the shop, Birdy has been a skills, ability to work NMCRS shop director. knitter for the baby layette independently, excel- “Not only is she here ev- program, Drislane said. lent oral and written ery Tuesday and Thursday Every Christmas, Birdy communication skills, to assist customers, Mick- hand-crafted gifts for each public speaking expe- ey also comes in other of the shop’s volunteers. rience and experience mornings to help get mer- “It’s very pleasurable to working with Volun- chandise ready for sale,” work with her,” shop vol- teers. Drislane said. unteer Ray Garcia, 83, a Knowledge of mil- “She is never afraid to retired Navy Command- itary pay/allowance express her opinion and al- er. “She is very helpful systems and NMCRS ways keeps us on our toes, to everyone who comes Level III Caseworker setting an example of ser- through the door,” he said. status is highly desir- vice that is awe-inspiring to “She even puts in hours able. all of us,” Smith said. at home, tagging and pric- Preference in select- Birdy maintains a posi- ing donations,” Drislane ing candidates will be tive outlook. “I love being said. given to those with pre- with people,’ she said. “I have felt so privileged vious experience as a Birdy was born in Toron- to have someone of Mick- Volunteer or as an em- to. Her family relocated to ey’s talents on our team ployee with NMCRS. Philadelphia. Her connec- here,” she said. Starting pay for this Photo by MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford tion with the Navy started “She’s the type of per- position is $13.00/hr (L-R) Teresa Christenson, Barbara Natonski, Emily Kircheval and Rear Adm. Mark at age 18 when she enlist- son who wants to make plus benefits. Boensel, Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic pose as Kircheval receives a certificate ed in the WAVES (Women sure that everything is OK Interested parties of commendation for her more than 6,700 hours and 45 years of service to Navy-Marine Accepted for Volunteer when she leaves,” Garcia may request an appli- Corps Relief Society luncheon, May 5. Emergency Service). She said. cation via e-mail at hr@ was one of the approxi- Birdy will be honored nmcrs.org or call 322- mately 86,000 WAVES who at a NMCRS luncheon on 1171. trained for a six to eight May 26. Please send com- pleted and signed applications and résu- més by COB Friday, May 14, 2010 via e-mail, mail, or fax to: NMCRS Norfolk; ATTN: Kathy Nelson, Director; 7928 14th Street, Bldg. SDA- 344, Suite 238; Norfolk, VA 23505-1299; FAX (757) 444-4805; kathy. [email protected] (PDF and JPEG files only). Although we ac- knowledge receipt of all applications, only those selected for in- terviews will receive further notification. Visit NMCRS on the web at www.nmcrs. org. E.O.E. Local CHAPLAIN’S CORNER service times From failure to success BY CDR CLINT PICKETT across the street. Harland’s fame grew. pursue his dream, combined with a de- LDS PROGRAMS NAS Oceana Governor Ruby Laffoon made him a licious chicken recipe, Colonel Sanders JEB Little Creek Chapel Worship Schedule: Kentucky Colonel in 1935 in recogni- started a franchise business that would Noon — Sun. Worship (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) Have you ever had that feeling that tion of his contributions to the state’s eventually sell for $2 million dollars in 8 p.m. — Wed. Bible Study you were a failure? Perhaps you had a cuisine. And in 1939, his establishment just 12 years. (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) dream that fell apart, or maybe good was fi rst listed in Duncan Hines’ “Ad- He would not settle for failure, but intentions just did not turn out the ventures in Good Eating.” kept trying until he gained success. NAVAL STATION NORFOLK right way. Recently, I have been not- In the early 1950s a new interstate There is a great divide between know- ROMAN CATHOLIC PROTESTANT ing some very famous people who highway was planned to bypass the ing something and doing something Our Lady of Victory Chapel David Adams Memorial once were considered “failures”. The town of Corbin. Colonel Sanders felt like with what you know. “The world does Mass Schedule: Chapel Worship Services: key to their success is that they nev- his great dream had come to an end. not pay for what a person knows. But it 11:45 a.m.— Wed. 10:30 a.m.— Sun. er gave up on their dream. From each He was 65 years old and most people pays for what a person does with what 10 a.m.— Sun.. Worship failure they learned something about probably told him to give up and retire. he knows” (Laurence Lee). life, the thing they were trying to ac- Some people probably said; “You gave Wherever you are in life right now, For more information call complish, and they learned a lot about it a good shot, it just didn’t work out for learn this indispensable lesson of Naval Station Norfolk Chapel 444-7361 themselves. you. At your age, there isn’t much you life; Failure doesn’t have to end your Mark Twain speaks to the issue of can do so just take this loss and hang up dreams, it can only sharpen the path JEWISH PROGRAMS never giving up on your dreams by stat- your dream.” that leads to your dreams. Never grow Commodore Uraih P. Levy Chapel: Jewish services are ing: “Keep away from people who try Colonel Sanders auctioned off his op- tired of following the path that points to- at Norfolk chapel in Building C7 on the Second Floor to belittle your ambitions. Small peo- erations and after paying his bills, he wards your heartfelt dreams. At 65 years every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Building C7 is located at 1630 ple always do that, but the really great was reduced to living on his $105 Social of age, Colonel Sanders sat out to fulfi ll Morris St. on Naval Base Norfolk. For more information make you feel that you, too, can become Security checks. his dream. Are you to old or to young to call 444-7361 or 7363. great.” Colonel Sanders had a dream and start out pursuing your dream? Harland Sanders came from an eco- although the door on his former res- Remember, you are not alone on the MUSLIM PROGRAMS nomically poor background. He went taurant read “Closed”, Gone out of pathway of life. Our God is an ever-pres- Masjid al Da’wah through a lot of different jobs by mid business; he rose up in determination ent help in time of need and “If God is 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7): Muslim services are life. When he was 40 years old he ran a to never give up on his dream. He took for us, who can be against us?” (Romans at Norfolk chapel every Friday at 1:30 p.m. gas station and would serve people food his car and set off across the country to 8:31) Grow in your love and knowledge on his kitchen table. show other restaurants how good his of the Lord as you set your sails to learn JEB LITTLE CREEK CHAPEL People really began to like his food chicken really was. valuable lessons of life, as your pursue ROMAN CATHOLIC Confessions: and soon he opened a nice restaurant Because of his determination to your dreams. Mass Schedule: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. — Sat. 5 p.m.— Sat. PROTESTANT (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) 9 a.m. — Sun. School 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m. — Sun. (4 years-Adult) 11:30 a.m. — Tues. - Fri. 10:30 a.m. — Sun. (except holidays) Divine Worship, Children’s Church (Ages 4-10) PWOC: Bible Study at the Chapel Annex Every Wed. Fellowship: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: 10 a.m. - noon PWOC: Evening Bible Study Every Mon.: 7 p.m. Latter Day Saints Coffeehouse 11:30 a.m. — Sun. 6 p.m. — Sun. For more information call JEB Little Creek Chapel 462-7427 Nassau takes the plunge BY MCSN (SW) CHRIS WILLIAMSON Amphibious Squadron Eight (CPR-8) Public Affairs Office

USS NASSAU, At Sea — Sailors and Marines aboard USS Nassau (LHA 4) took a plunge in the ocean during a swim call conducted near the half-way point of the ship’s deployment to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility. Though this may be the first swim call for this deployment, it is the second time this year the crew has been in the water. The crew had the opportunity to jump off the aircraft elevator in the Hangar Bay or swim around in the flooded Well Deck. The first Sailor to leap from the elevator into the water below was Nassau’s Com- Photos by MC2 Michael R. Hinchcliffe Senior Chief Logistics Specialist (SW/AW) Timothy Schwab (L) and Chief Engineman (SW) Ray manding Officer Capt. Ronald Reis. After Valadez, both assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, shovel excess dirt in order Reis jumped off his own ship, everyone to level the ground for the planting of flowers, bushes and plants at Bayside Middle School. was welcome to jump in one at a time. Photo by MCSN (SW/AW) Jonathan Pankau For more than three hours, Sailors and Marine Cpl. Damian Cole, from Americus, Marines took part in the swim call, and for Ga., jumps off USS Nassau’s (LHA 4) port some, it was the opportunity of a lifetime. side aircraft elevator during a swim call and NECC partners with sports day event. Nassau is the command “I was so excited I got to jump off of the platform for the Nassau Amphibious Ready ship and swim around,” said Electronics Group and 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, Technician 3rd Class Christine Duncan, currently supporting Maritime Security Bayside Middle School of Richmond. “That was my first time Operations (MSO) and Theater Security jumping in my whole Navy career and I Cooperation (TSC) operations in the U.S. 5th VIRGINIA BEACH look forward to doing it again this deploy- Fleet area of operations. — Navy Expeditionary ment.” the ship. Combat Command (NECC) Nassau’s Executive Officer Capt. Sam- “I think events like the swim call create Sailors received certificates uel Norton said he also enjoyed the swim lasting memories,” said Culinary Special- of appreciation during a call. ist 3rd Class Nicholas Roby, of Louisville, ceremony April 30 for their “Of course safety is the number one Ky. “Doing the same thing over and over work with students and priority for these types of events,” said again at work tends to get tedious. I’m teachers at Bayside Middle Norton, “But I believe the swim call was glad everyone got to take time out of their School. an enjoyable time for all. Even though I busy schedules to do this.” NECC Sailors recently didn’t partake in the festivities, I still en- The Nassau Amphibious Ready Group assisted in the construc- joyed watching the crew have fun.” (NAS ARG)/ 24th Marine Expedition- tion of a rain and butterfly “We had safety observers, small boats ary Unit (MEU) is currently supporting garden with the school’s with shark watch personnel and search Maritime Security Operations (MSO) environmental club. NECC and rescue (SAR) swimmers to keep the and Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) purchased more than event safe,” said Aviation Ordnanceman Operations in the 5th Fleet area of respon- $1,200 worth of materials 3rd Class (AW/SW) Jonathan Flemming, sibility. to support the project that of Jackson, Ga., one of the certified SAR NAS ARG is comprised of ships from included digging ponds, swimmers aboard Nassau. Amphibious Squadron Eight (PHIBRON landscaping, and plant- “The personnel that jumped in the wa- 8) including the Tarawa-class multipur- ing bushes, marsh living Chief Engineman (SW) Ray Valadez, assigned to Navy ter listened extremely well and swam pose amphibious assault ship USS Nassau plants and flowers. Expeditionary Combat Command, transplants plants into immediately to the small boat to be taken (LHA 4), the San Antonio-class amphibi- “I was amazed at how mo- the soil at Bayside Middle School. Sailors from NECC and back to the ship,” said Flemming. “Over- ous transport dock USS Mesa Verde (LPD tivated the students were,” Partners in Education mentored local children and helped in the creation of rain and butterfly gardens at the school. all, everyone had a good time and things 19) and the Whidbey Island-class amphib- said Senior Chief Gunner’s went smoothly.” ious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD Mate (SW) Joseph Cas- effort and hard work from Rayburn, an 8th grader at Following the swim call, a man over- 48). Marines from the 24th Marine Ex- sista, NECC partnership Sailors and students result- Bayside. “I think they have board drill was held to ensure that all peditionary Unit (24 MEU) complete the in education coordinator. ed in a beautiful garden, helped out a lot by bring- crew members were safely back aboard group. “These students took off which not only prevents the ing in the tools. You can their sandals and began court yard from flooding tell that the Sailors worked digging barefoot.” but has helped in forming hard because you can see Cassista said the students a bond between NECC and them sweating and getting shoveled packed clay and the school. tired.” moved heavy wheelbarrows “I think it’s really cool that NECC Sailors are also full of dirt with incredible we get support from the mentoring students in pro- motivation for their age and Navy for our school,” said grams like Advancement size. He said the combined Amanda Kathryn Mcbeth- Via Individual Determina- tion (AVID) and speaking Japanese. They have been guest speakers at the school each Friday, speak- ing to honor roll students and perfect attendance stu- dents, and have helped with ice cream socials for students who have brought up their grades by at least two points. “As Student Recognition Coordinator and school partnership coordinator, I want to thank NECC for supporting our school partnership,” said Debra Defoor, Bayside guidance department chair. “I hope that it will prove to be as much of a benefit to the command as it is al- ready proving to be for our school.” NURSE: From deck seaman Ayala CHESAPEAKE: Sailors hope to earned the right to be a Corpsman draw attention to cleaning bay Continued from page B1 said. early tour on USS Enter- The ability to direct- prise (CVN 65), his career Continued from page B1 Shore. There, the crew will camp for ly help patients as a nurse has taken him all around the night before making the return trip medicine. He also serves greatly appealed to Ay- the world; to Hawaii on “We are hoping that the wind works to First Landing the following day. as the clinical manager for ala and he set his sights USS Cimarron (AO 177), with us,” King said of the trip both to The trip was planned with the as- Aviation Medicine, where on becoming a registered BHC Makalapa, NAS Bar- Cape Charles and back. “If it is against sistance of the US Coast Guard and his duties include “mak- nurse. bers Point and with the us we may have to anchor out for a few Virginia Pilots Association. ing sure all the squadrons But with his parents Marines at Combat Service hours. Even rowing the boat is impossi- The boat’s crew has trained for more are taken care of at NAS only having an elementa- Support Group 3; to Sase- ble against the wind.” than six weeks, taking their time to get Oceana. When they come ry school education, there bo, Japan on USS Belleau This event is being sponsored by the to know the boat and practicing rowing through this door and they was no money for college. Wood (LHA 3); California Naval Historical Society to foster envi- and navigation. have issues, it’s my job to So Ayala joined the Navy to Naval Hospital Oakland ronmental awareness in the Chesapeake The Naval Heritage Society website resolve them and get them out of high school “with and USNS Mercy (T-AH Bay by drawing attention to the Chesa- has more information about the organi- seen,” explained Ayala, my greatest goal of be- 19). peake Bay Foundation’s Clean the Bay zation and the event, and keeps a blog: who is the only nurse in coming an officer and my Other tours with the Ma- Day as well as the Virginia State Parks. www.navalheritage.org and http:// Aviation Medicine. second [goal] was to be a rine Corps include the 2nd The boat will set off from the beach navalheritage.blogspot.com. Photos While those duties might nurse.” Battalion, 3rd Marines, the at First Landing State Park at 7:30 a.m. of their training events are posted on seem overwhelming to He entered the Navy as a 1st Marine Expeditionary on Saturday May 15 and cross to Kipto- Facebook, Look under Naval Heritage some, Ayala is more than deck seaman more than 20 Brigade and the 1st Battal- peke State Park on Virginia’s Eastern Society. a little enthusiastic about years ago. So determined ion 12th Marines. what he does. “I love my to become a corpsman as a By any standards, Ay- job. I wouldn’t change it.” junior Sailor, he passed up ala’s awards and various Previously stationed at the opportunity to become tours would be consid- SEABEE SPIRIT: the hospital in the Oncol- a dental technician and go ered outstanding. But what Job isn’t done until ogy Department, he was to “A” school immediately. most people don’t realize is selected as Junior Nurse Instead he waited anoth- that he does all of this de- of the Quarter, First Quar- er three years and eight spite his wife, being part one year after structure is complete ter 2007. Less than a year months — “almost another of the Exceptional Family Continued from page B1 after reporting to BHC enlistment” for the oppor- Member (EFM) Program, Oceana, he earned the Se- tunity to attend HM “A” meaning she must be lo- -30- nior Nurse of the Quarter, School. cated near a major medical Djibouti. Most recently, NMCB 7 has Third Quarter 2008. Both “Earning the right to be- facility that can provide the been preparing to drill water wells in quarterly awards put him in come a corpsman” was a level of care needed. They Ethiopia. the running for the NMCP decision Ayala has nev- have been together most But once a project is complete, the yearly awards. While he er regretted. “I wouldn’t of his career and she has Seabees job is only half done. didn’t win the yearly hon- change it for the world,” been able to transfer with “As Seabees, we really split our time ors then, he joked about he said. him to the various duty sta- between initial construction and main- “the upward trend” in his His dream of becoming tions. tenance,” said NMCB 7 public works awards. a nurse and a naval officer “I would only be half of crew supervisor Steelworker 1st Class Ayala explained his work was achieved through the good without her. She’s (SCW) Lynnette King of Cleveland, ethic of “whatever I have Medical Enlisted Commis- awesome,” said Ayala. Ohio. “If we build a structure, it is un- to do to get the job done sioning Program, where Ayala expects to find out der our maintenance for a year.” right,” was learned from he graduated from Ha- if he was selected for lieu- Through it all, the Seabees of NMCB “salty master chiefs.” Ay- waii Pacific University in tenant commander later 7 take pride in what they do and how ala will sometimes come 2002. this year. If selected, he much they help in and around military into his office on Sunday to Because he credits “the would make another three- installations. catch up on paperwork or mentorship I’ve received year commitment to the “Seabees can do it from the ground other tasks, because “in an throughout my career,” in Navy and “I’m willing to do up across the board,” said King. “It real- eight-hour day, you can’t helping him to become a that,” he said. ly feels great to be a part of a team that really do everything,” commissioned officer and “The Navy is a good does so much for people who have so Photo by MC2 Patrick Gordon His routine is to start earn awards, Ayala de- place to work in the nurs- little. It’s rewarding and really makes Equipment Operator 3rd Class Wesley Morris every day with a task and votes time to help other ing field and I would you thankful, too.” of Hollywood, Fla., a Seabee with Naval Mobile because he likes to keep Sailors achieve the same recommend it to any grad. NCMB 7 is home ported at the Construction Battalion (NMCB) 7, checks the his office clear, he tries not goals. Ayala is frequently It’s really great working for Naval Construction Battalion Cen- mirrors of a MK-31 truck during preparations for a water well drilling operation. NMCB 7 is to go home until he has asked for his input on com- the Navy. I’ve had better ter Gulfport, Miss., home of the currently operating out of Camp Lemonier, completed it. missioning packages and opportunities in the Navy. Atlantic Fleet Seabees, and is current- Djibouti, and is home ported at the Naval “When I’m given a task- he is currently reviewing I’ve had better camarade- ly the east coast’s Battle “E” Seabee Construction Battalion Center Gulfport, Miss., er, I get it done. I do not four officer program pack- rie, better teamwork and battalion. home of the Atlantic Fleet Seabees. move on until it’s done. I ages. people trying to help me,” think people appreciate “Somebody helped me, he explained. that,” said Ayala. so I’m trying to help some- “We’re about 2,500 Throughout his nurs- one else,” he explained, strong in the Navy. That’s ing career, he’s has heard proudly adding 18 Sailors not a lot of nurses, so we re- the stereotypes about male he has assisted have been ally try to be a tight group nurses, particularly from commissioned so far. and help each other when those in the civilian sec- Along with his tours at we can. I’m very proud of tor. But he views being NMCP and Oceana, and an that,” he said selected for the top hon- or at NMCP as the chance to “highlight what we do, how good a male nurse is. It’s an honor to represent all of Portsmouth. There have been a lot of great nurses and most of them I’ve worked alongside.” Growing up in Camden, N.J. Ayala knew early on he wanted to go into the medical field. As a young child, Ayala helped take care of his ill great-grand- mother. “I knew I had the talent, the heart for medicine,” he