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Serving the Hampton Roads Navy Family Vol. 18, No. 11, Norfolk, VA FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM March 18, 2010 CNO addresses future of the Navy STORY AND PHOTO BY MC1 (AW) TIM COMERFORD The Flagship staff writer

NORFOLK — The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), Adm. Gary Roughead, talked with Sailors about the state of the Navy during an All Hands Call and Naval Station Norfolk’s C- 9 Auditorium, March 15. “I can’t say how proud I am of the work that you and Rear Adm. Mark others are doing around the S. Boensel, Commander Navy world,” Roughead told the as- Region Mid-Atlantic sembled Sailors. “I get the escorts Adm. Gary opportunity to see the Navy at Roughead, Chief of Photo by MC1 Edward Kessler work in so many different ar- Information Systems Technician 1st Naval Operations Class Roy Dunbar, from Chesapeake, eas. I see how busy we are, I to an All Hands Call completes the 2010 Shipboard Census see how effective we are, that in Naval Station Report aboard the amphibious dock is something no other orga- Norfolk’s C-9 landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD nization in the world can lay building auditorium, 43). The report contains six questions claim to.” March 15. and takes less than fi ve minutes to CNO believes that partner- complete. ships with other nations are dian Ocean and the Pacific and operations and had an interna- “We are seeing an increase in greatly benefi cial to our coun- the level of activities continue tional staff, largely of African the demand of ballistic missile 2010 Census will try and the countries that the to increase,” said Roughead. officers on board – they had defense,” Roughead said. “It Navy associates with. “The Africa Partnership Sta- an incredible experience.” is a growing necessity that we count Sailors at “The relationships that we tion ship – USS Gunston Hall Roughead also has heard home and away have with the Navies in the In- – diverted and helped relief some needs from Washington. See CNO, A9 PRESS RELEASE From the Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs Comfort WASHINGTON — Military personnel and civilians located on vessels April 1 will retain returns their right to ensure proper Congressional representation to U.S. and their community’s federal funding through participation in BY REBECCA A. PERRON the shipboard enumeration phase Naval Medical Center of the Census, which includes all Portsmouth Public Affairs vessels assigned to a homeport in the United States and Puerto Rico. USNS Comfort (T-AH-20) Each ship received Census pulled into Naval Station Nor- enumeration materials from the folk, March 13, where family Census Bureau enabling them to members and colleagues greet- conduct a complete enumeration ed the remaining Naval Medical of personnel assigned to each ship, Center Portsmouth personnel even during at-sea periods such as who served on board the Navy deployment or work-ups. hospital ship and conducted “Congress and the Census humanitarian and disaster re- Bureau understand the importance lief operations, as part of the of, and the high operational tempo international mission Opera- of naval forces and are committed tion Unifi ed Response, in the to ensuring Sailors and Navy aftermath of a 7.0 magnitude civilians and contractors have earthquake that struck Haiti. the opportunity to be counted, Comfort departed Port-au- even when executing missions at Prince, March 9, after being sea,” said Tom Yavorski, Navy’s anchored off the coast of Hai- Representative at the Joint Census ti for seven weeks. Its rapid Working Group. “Therefore they deployment provided state-of- have provided two opportunities the-art and round-the-clock for deployed members to complete afl oat medical care to a nation this year’s census.” whose own hospitals and clinics Sailors who maintain an onshore were decimated in the earth- residence will receive both the quake that struck the island standard Census questionnaire at Jan. 12. their home address as well as a More than half of NMCP’s Shipboard Census Report (SCR) staff detailed to the ship had Photo by Harry Gerwien/Military Newspapers of Virginia onboard the ship. The completion begun to fl y home via commer- Line handlers are dwarfed by the Military Sealift Command hospital ship, USNS Comfort (T-AH-20), docked of both forms is required to ensure cial and Air Mobility Command at Naval Station Norfolk, March 13. The ship and its crew are home from a seven-week deployment to the appropriate representation. When U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in which they provided medical care in Haiti as part of completing the SCR, Sailors should See COMFORT, A10 Operation Unifi ed Response. The Comfort surgical team performed more than 800 surgeries. include the full address of their primary onshore residence. In addition to counting deployed Sailors and civilians, the Census remains focused on counting DFAS — Keeping it current, keeping it real members serving closer to home. BY STEVE BURGHARDT Naval personnel who reside in Defense Finance and Accounting Service an apartment off base or family housing on base will receive INDIANAPOLIS, IN — A year after the Census questionnaires through Defense Finance and Accounting Service the U.S. Postal Service beginning (DFAS) fi rst launched the myPay Web-based Mar. 15. Completed forms should pay account system in 2000, less than 500,000 be returned in the envelope military, military retirees, annuitants and fed- provided. eral civilian employees were listed as online Sailors residing in group users. Today that number has increased to quarters will be contacted by approximately 3.7 million users with access to myPay security enhancement requiring in information. their Census Project Manager pay account information, tax statements and users to establish new login credentials, “While some might view 82 percent as to complete the Military Census the ability to update their bank, personal and including personalized login IDs and pass- a positive, I’m concerned that some of our Report, a sub-set of the standard allotment information instantly and, most im- words. The agency has posted step-by-step customers don’t appreciate what myPay pro- Census questionnaire. portantly, securely. instructions in both text and video at the vides,” said DFAS Principal Deputy Director The 2010 Military Census Report To date, more than 2.6 million myPay users myPay site (https://mypay.dfas.mil/mypay. Richard Gustafson. “We want to provide a and Shipboard Census Report have accessed their 2009 tax statements on- aspx) and its public Web site (www.dfas. tool for our customers that is both useful and contains six questions and takes line, avoiding the delays and possible security mil) to help customers set up their new in- gives them a feeling of confi dence that their less than five minutes to complete. risks of regular mail delivery. formation. Currently, 82 percent of myPay Last November, DFAS implemented a accounts have been updated with new log- See DFAS, A9

INSIDE: WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH A8 FRONT & CENTER B1 OFF DUTY C1 Women pilots of Child, Youth 24/7 Center Look, up in the sky WWII inspired generations grand opening, March 12 The Peking Acrobats bring Ceremony pays homage to the Fleet and Family Readiness their high-flying show to fi rst women who fl ew military Child and Youth Services host- Ferguson Center for the Arts, aircrafts during World War II. ed a grand opening ceremony. March 19. Employment program to Commander Navy Region resume for enrolled spouses Mid-Atlantic is: Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel BY ELAINE WILSON The Flagship® is produced by American Forces Press Service Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic staff. The editorial content of this newspaper and any supplement is WASHINGTON — The Military prepared, edited and provided by the public affairs offi ce of Commander Navy Spouse Career Advancement Accounts Region Mid- Atlantic. program, commonly known as MyCAA, Regional program manager for Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic is will resume March 13 for the more than 136,000 spouses who already have estab- Public Affairs Director lished an account, the defense offi cial Beth Baker who heads up the program announced Editorial Staff March 11. Managing Editor Offi cials announced a temporary halt Micheal Mink in the program Feb. 18, pending a top- Deputy Managing Editor to-bottom review, after a six-fold spike in job of notifying our military spouses.” MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford enrollments in January 2010, a surge that Thomas said he will work hard to re- Editorial Assistant overwhelmed the system and caused store the confi dence lost when the MC2 Mandy Hunsucker the program to nearly reach its budget program was halted. Graphic Designer threshold. “We certainly know we have lost some David Todd “We made a commitment to our mili- confi dence, and we want to rebuild that Off Duty Editor / Designer tary spouses when they established a confi dence,” he said. “We will restore Tim Rafalski career advancement account, and we that faith hopefully by one, restoring the The Flagship® is an authorized will be true to our promises,” said Tom- program, and two, having appropriate re- publication for members of the military services and their families. Its contents do my T. Thomas, deputy undersecretary of sources to ensure everyone that applies not necessarily refl ect the offi cial views of defense for the Pentagon’s Offi ce of Mili- for the program receives the appropriate the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine tary Community and Family Policy. fi nancial assistance. Corps and do not imply endorsement The Defense Department will resume “We appreciate what [spouses] do, thereof. The appearance of advertising the program for the 136,583 military and we hope that through this, that once in this newspaper, including inserts spouses currently in the program at we get this program back on track, that or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of noon EDT March 13, said Thomas. we don’t lose any ... spouses,” he contin- Defense, the Navy or Marine Corps, “We sincerely apologize to our military ued. “We value and treasure everything Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, Inc. of the products and services spouses for the added burden caused by you do each and every day, not only for advertised. the pause in operation,” added Thomas. the Department of Defense, but for this Everything advertised in The Flagship® shall be made available for purchase, While the program will resume for en- nation.” use or patronage without regard to race, rolled spouses, new MyCAA accounts Thomas said he will ensure the lines color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political or fi nancial assistance applications will of communication stay open in the days affi liation or any other nonmerit factor of the not be accepted yet, Thomas said, not- ahead. An e-mail has been sent to all pro- purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by ing that the comprehensive review of the gram participants, informing them of an advertiser is confi rmed, the publisher program still is under way. the program’s resumption, and spouses shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The “We are working hard to adjust the will see the announcement letter when Flagship® is published by Flagship, Inc., a program to meet the demands of the they log on to their MyCAA accounts. A subsidiary of Landmark Communications, Inc., a private fi rm in no way connected MyCAA program and to arrive at a long- “media blitz” of information will precede with the Department of Defense, the term solution for military spouses who any announcement that applies to all mil- U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps, under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy. would like to establish an account,” he itary spouses, he vowed. Questions or comments can be said. “Until that time, we encourage “We don’t want to make the mistake directed to the public affairs offi cer or the editor. The Flagship® can be reached at spouses to consult with the MyCAA ca- we made in the beginning, and that is not 322-2865 (editor), 322-2864 (assistant reer counselors who can provide career notifying you what’s going on,” Thomas editor). The fax number is 445-1953 or write Commander, Navy Region, Mid- exploration, assessment, employment said. “We want to make absolutely sure Atlantic, The Flagship®, 1510 Gilbert St., readiness and career search assis- that you understand that we’re working Norfolk, VA 23511-2737. All news releases should be sent to this address. Stories tance.” in your best interest.” may be submitted via e-mail to news@ The top-to-bottom review includes pro- In the meantime, Thomas urged spous- fl agshipnews.com. You can visit The Flagship’s Web site at www.fl agshipnews. cedures, fi nancial assistance documents es to be wary of questionable Web sites com. and the overall program, which is in- enticing them with employment oppor- The Flagship® is published every Thursday by Flagship, Inc., whose offi ces tended to provide military spouses with tunities. are at 150 W. Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk, opportunities to pursue portable careers “Stay the course with us and allow us VA 23510. Minimum weekly circulation is 45,000. in high-demand, high-growth occupa- to work this to fi nality by restoring the Flagship, Inc. tions. program,” he said. “We will make every General Manager The program has been growing in effort possible to ensure we educate you Laura Baxter, 222-3964 popularity since its inception March 2, and get the necessary funds to continue Creative Director 2009. Enrollments had been increasing this program.” Tricia Lieurance, 222-3968 at a rate of about 10,000 a month, and Along with MyCAA counselors,

Free Classifi ed Advertising, 222-3967 in January 2010, the number spiked to spouses also can request free career Distribution, 446-2881 70,000. counseling through Military OneSource Home Delivery, 222-3965 “We had very little time to react to at 1-800-342-9647 or at http://militaryo- © 2009 Flagship, Inc. that,” said Thomas. “I make no excuses nesource.com. All rights reserved. for that. We should have done a better For more news, visit www.navy.mil. THE FLAGSHIP’S LEEWARD SHOUT Why do you think it is important for the military to celebrate Women’s History Month?

“I think it’s “We should “Historically important celebrate females have to celebrate women because kind of become women’s history guys get the military’s because it recognized backbone, so shows how far more often and we should defi - the military has women have nitely celebrate come in letting come a long them and their everyone serve.” way within the accomplish- military.” ments in the CTNSN AZ2 (AW) EM2 military.” Stephen Denton Kawana Copeland Brian Powell NIOC VRC 40 USS Norfolk (SSN 714)

“Women “Women have “Women have have had an had a positive come a long important role impact on our way in the Navy, in the military military and from being and we should we should allowed to serve be celebrated remember that on ships, to because of that. and the things the possible Like what we do women have future of women in Afghanistan done in the serving on and searching military.” submarines HM2 for the Afghan CTN2 IT1 (SW) ... therefore women.” we should be Golda Macias Benjamin Gill Sarah Sendrey celebrated.” Reservist with OHSU Det. G NIOC NCTAMS LANT

Photos by MC2 Mandy Hunsucker

Brought to you by For the latest weather updates and up-to-the-minute weather alerts, go to www.wtkr.com/weather Navy releases Family Gram, Podcast to enhance family readiness

PRESS RELEASE Coverage options range From Chief of Naval Personnel from no fee, no deductible Public Affairs and no co-payment care pro- WASHINGTON — The vided at military facilities, to chief of Naval Personnel has fee-for-service options which released the first monthly allow increased flexibility in Family Gram as part of Na- choosing a medical provider. vy’s commitment to enhance “The physical, mental, emo- family readiness. tional, and spiritual health March’s Family Gram fo- and fitness of our people and cuses on medical benefits their families is critical to and provides Sailors and their maintaining an effective fight- families information on the ing force,” said Navy Surgeon

Photo by MC1 Katrina Sartain range of medical support ser- General Vice Adm. Adam M. The Navy Band ensemble New Orleans Express, performs at Riverdale High School during New Orleans Navy Week, one of vices available to them. Robinson Jr. “Whether we 20Navy Weeks planned across America in 2010. Navy Weeks are designed to show Americans the investment they have made “Family readiness de- are treating a relatively mi- in their Navy and increase awareness in cities that do not have a significant Navy presence. scribes a Navy family who is nor injury, illness or treating prepared for mobilizations, a traumatic injury resulting deployments and prolonged from war, our patient and fam- separations through a net- ily centered philosophy and Navy Week brings work of support systems and approach is not only our mis- communication channels sion – it is our bottom line.” that link the command, fami- In addition, the Fam- ly and Navy,” said Rear Adm. ily Gram highlights the Dan Holloway, Navy’s direc- importance of enrolling America’s Navy home tor of personnel, plans and and maintaining current in- policies division. “Togeth- formation in the Defense BY LT. CMDR. LISA BRAUN keynote speakers for local Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions and er we are forming a resilient Enrollment Eligibility Re- Navy Office of Community Outreach other civic and service organizations. well-informed family, adapt- porting System (DEERS) to The Blue Angels, Leap Frogs, divers and oth- able to the Navy operating remain eligible for a variety MILLINGTON, Tenn. — The Navy Week 2010 sea- er Sailors demonstrate capabilities. Namesake and environment and capable of Navy benefits to include son kicks off March 12, giving residents in 20 cities hometown Sailors are honored, visiting high schools, of navigating through and medical care. It also provides across the nation an opportunity to meet Sailors and sporting and cultural events. utilizing the many support resources for verifying and learn about the Navy’s critical mission and broad-rang- Navy Weeks 2010 will underscore the Navy’s new services available. updating DEERS informa- ing capabilities. “Global Force for Good” campaign, and focus on pro- In the podcast Holloway tion to reflect changes in the The first of these 20 will take place March 12-22 in viding a “local force for good,” supporting community talks about family readiness. sponsor’s status on occasions Tampa Bay, Fla. Navy Weeks are designed to show- service organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, “It is important that as our such as marriage or divorce, case the Navy’s talented people and its broad-ranging First Tee, American Red Cross and countless others. men and women go forward birth of a child, or relocation. capabilities in areas where there is little or no every- Sailors will also present donated ship and squadron in their duties realizing that “We are currently support- day Navy presence. ball caps to hospitalized children fighting serious ill- their families back at home ing our families with more “Navy Weeks are turbo-charged in 2010, with the nesses as part of the Navy’s own “Caps for Kids” supporting them will be tak- than 30 family support pro- full force of CNO’s May 19, 2009 ‘Outreach: America’s program. en care of while they are grams ranging from child Navy’ instruction (OPNAVINST 5726.8) guiding the The cities that have been selected to host a Navy deployed.” care, ombudsmen to physical effort,” said Cmdr. Rick Haupt, director, Navy Office Week include: Tampa; Phoenix; Charleston, S.C.; San The Family Gram pro- fitness and youth outreach of Community Outreach. “Navy Weeks are based on Antonio, Texas; Des Moines, Iowa; Kansas City; Bir- vides information on Tricare, opportunities. I am excited a broad partnership with Navy Recruiting Command, mingham, Ala.; Spokane, Wash.; Little Rock, Ark.; the Department of Defense’s about the renewed commit- the fleet, the Navy Reserve and Navy Installations Milwaukee, Wis.; Boston; Minneapolis; Chicago; Boi- worldwide health care pro- ment to family readiness from Command as well as History and Heritage Command se, Idaho; Baltimore; Cleveland; St. Louis; Salt Lake gram for active duty and senior leadership to the deck- and a broad array of local community organizations City; Atlanta; and Dallas. Reserve Sailors and their plates – it is a fully supported and leadership.” Detailed information on each Navy Week can be found families. Specifically, the initiative to strengthen our During a Navy Week, a variety of Sailors put on nu- at www.navyweek.org. Become a fan of Navy Weeks at message outlines Tricare overall program and provide merous events in a single city, sharing the Navy story www.facebook.com/pages/Navy-Weeks/45385081937. coverage choices, explaining valuable information to our broadly For slide shows of Navy Weeks, visit www.flickr.com/ the differences and eligibili- Navy family,” said Holloway. Admirals speak to chambers of commerce, tour fa- photos/navyweek/sets. For the U.S. Navy “Calendar for ty requirements among the To listen to the podcast, visit cilities of the host city’s major employers and meet America,” visit www.navy.mil/navco/CFA/2010.html. prime, standard, extra and www.navy.mil/media/audio/ key leaders in the area, highlighting current opera- For more news from Navy Office of Community Out- overseas program-prime op- cnp/CNP%20Family%20Rea tions and the maritime strategy. They are frequently reach, visit www.navy.mil/local/navco/. tions. diness%20Podcast.MP3. CNO announces Flag Officer assignments PRESS RELEASE craft Division/assistant commander for From the Department of Defense research and engineering, Naval Air Sys- tems Command, Patuxent River, Md. WASHINGTON — Chief of Naval Op- Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael H. Mittel- erations Adm. Gary Roughead announced man, who has been selected for promotion March 11 the following assignments: to Rear Adm., will be assigned as fleet sur- Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael J. Browne geon, U.S. Pacific Fleet/command surgeon, will be assigned as director, Personal Read- U.S. Pacific Command, Camp H.M. Smith, Religious Programs iness and Community Support Branch, Hawaii. Mittleman is currently serving Specialist 2nd N135, Office of the Chief of Naval Opera- as command surgeon, Joint Forces Com- Class Norman tions, Washington, D.C. Browne is currently mand/medical advisor to Supreme Allied R. Otters, from serving as deputy chief engineer, Naval Sea Commander Transformation, Norfolk. Oskaloosa, Iowa, hands out Croc Systems Command, Washington, D.C. Rear Adm. (lower half) William M. Rob- shoes to students Capt. Clinton F. Faison III, who has been erts will be assigned as fleet surgeon, U.S. at the Guelleh Batal selected for promotion to Rear Adm. (lower Fleet Forces Command, Norfolk. Roberts School in Djibouti. half), will be assigned as commander, Navy is currently serving as director, Medical Re- World Emergency Medicine West/commander, Naval Medical sources, Plans, and Policy Division, N931, Relief donated Center, San Diego. Faison is currently serv- Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, approximately ing as deputy chief, Medical Operations, Washington, D.C. 10,000 pairs of M3/5, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Rear Adm. (lower half) Alton L. Stocks will Croc shoes to the Washington, D.C. be assigned as commander, Navy Medicine Camp Lemonnier base chapel, Rear Adm. (lower half) Donald E. Gad- East/commander, Naval Medical Center, which distributed dis will be assigned as program executive Portsmouth, Stocks is currently serving as the shoes to officer for Tactical Aircraft Programs, Wash- fleet surgeon, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, local schools, ington, D.C. Gaddis is currently serving as Norfolk. refugee camps, commander, Naval Air Warfare Center, Air- For more news, visit www.navy.mil. churches, and Army Civil Affairs detachments. Photo by MC2 Joshua Bruns Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead is presented Camp personnel help the Optimas Award in General Excellence by Todd distribute shoes to Johnson, publisher of Workforce Management refugees in Djibouti Magazine. The award recognizes the Navy’s continued BY MCC FRANK ed Otter. the collapse of the Soma- commitment to MONTELLANO Hassan Mohamed, the li government in 1991 to developing innovative Camp Lemonnier Public Affairs refugee camp manager, host refugees fleeing the initiatives to promote gave a tour to Lt. Cmdr. civil war. Currently, the a total force. CAMP LEMONNIER, Robert Cain, a chaplain at camp hosts a total popu- Photo by MC1 Tiffini Jones Vanderwyst Djibouti — Personnel CLDJ, and Ann Encontre, lation of more than 11,000 from the Enduring Cha- the UNHCR represen- refugees from Somali, pel at Camp Lemonnier, tative in Djibouti, to see Ethiopia and Eritrea. Navy receives OPTIMAS Award Djibouti (CLDJ), helped firsthand the difference The Ali Addeh refu- distribute 10,000 pairs of that the shoes made in the gee camp is administered for ‘General Excellence’ plastic clog shoes donated lives of the refugees. by the Government of by the World Emergency “On behalf of UNHCR Djibouti, under the juris- BY MC2 (SW) KYLE P. MALLOY along,” said Roughead. “It has been a way Relief (WER) organization and the refugees in the diction of the Ali Sabieh Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs for us to look at ourselves, to assess our- to the Ali Addeh refugee camp, I would like to take Commissioner and the selves, and to look at how we can become camp, several schools, the opportunity to thank National Emergency and WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy was better at what we do.” churches, and non-gov- you and your team for the Disaster Relief Organiza- awarded the Optimas Award for General The Navy is the second government ernment organizations donation of shoes and the tion (ONARS). UNHCR is Excellence from Workforce Management agency and the first military service to located in Djibouti, Africa. interest you have shown responsible for the pro- Magazine during a ceremony on Capitol be recognized in the general excellence “We did this project in in improving the lives of tection and humanitarian Hill, March 9. category. Previous recipients have in- conjunction with WER be- refugees in Djibouti,” said assistance programs in Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. cluded companies known for innovation cause of the high rate of Encontre while addressing the camp. ONARS is the Gary Roughead received the award on be- like Google, Intel, and Hewlett-Pack- foot injuries and infections the military volunteers. coordinating agency for half of the Navy. ard. due to the lack of footwear “The visit with Mr. Cain is refugee assistance. Congressman Ike Skelton (D-MO) host- Roughead said winning such a presti- in many areas,” Religious yet another example of the Camp Lemonnier pro- ed the presentation and said that earning gious award will only strengthen the Navy’s Program Specialist 2nd commitment of the U.S. vides, operates and the Optimas Award validates the Navy’s commitment to being one of the nation’s Class Norman Otters. “We government and its people maintains superior ser- commitment to taking care of its people best employers. work closely with WER to humanitarian efforts for vice to meet the needs and its Sailors. “There are more things we can do, there and other organizations the needy.” of regional tenant com- Roughead accepted the award from Mr. are more things we will do, and there are on many community proj- During the tour, Cain mands, and facilitate Todd Johnson, publisher of Workforce more things that together we are going to ects, donating items such helped pass out food and operations in the Horn of Management Magazine, which recognized make the United States Navy an even better as clothing, baby needs, met with several chil- Africa, while promoting the Navy as one of the top 50 employers in place to be, to serve and be a better service and sports equipment.” dren wearing the donated positive relations between the county. for our nation,” said Roughead. “[The Opti- Approximately 1,600 shoes. “The [shoes] were the United States and Afri- Johnson pointed out that the Navy was mas Award] is a milepost because we don’t pairs were given to United given to the most vul- can nations. the largest organization to win the award intend to stop here.” Nations High Commission- nerable: orphans, single For more news from but explained that to win, an employer The Optimas Award has nine categories er for Refugees (UNHCR), women, elders,” said Mo- Commander, Navy Region must show measurable impact for the or- and recognizes organizations for their ini- the UN refugee agency, hamed. Europe, Africa, Southwest ganization. tiatives in competitive advantage, ethical for distribution at the Ali The Ali Addeh refugee Asia, visit www.navy.mil/ “The object to us isn’t the size of the or- practice, financial impact, global outlook, Addeh refugee camp, add- camp was established after local/cnre/. ganization, it is the size of the impact,” said innovation, managing, change, partner- Johnson. “And we’re going to give that ship, service, and vision. An organization award, this year, to the Navy.” must demonstrate excellence in six of the Roughead spoke about the significance nine categories to be awarded for General the Optimas Award has for the Navy. Excellence. “(It) recognizes the great work of our For more news from Chief of Naval Opera- people who move this terrific organization tions, visit www.navy.mil/local/cno/. SECNAV inducted as honorary chief at U.S. Naval Academy

PRESS RELEASE something you aren’t will- From U.S. Naval Academy ing to do yourself,” said Public Affairs Mabus. The day culminated in ANNAPOLIS, Md. — a ceremony during which Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus was inducted as an Mabus was inducted as an honorary chief petty officer honorary chief March 8 in (CPO). Retired Capt. Robert a ceremony in Dahlgren Parsons, also an honorary Hall while visiting the U.S. chief petty officer, and re- Naval Academy. tired Fleet Master Chief Mabus attended a variety James Mitchell pinned the of events throughout the symbolic chiefs anchors on day, beginning with the ex- Mabus’ collar. ecutive session of the Board “The pinning ceremo- of Visitors (BOV) meeting. ny is an important part of The BOV meets periodical- our heritage,” said Chief ly to inquire into the state of Musician Nick Pastelak, a morale and discipline, the member of the U.S. Naval curriculum, instruction, Academy Band and one of physical equipment, fiscal the masters of ceremony for affairs, academic methods Photo by David Tucker the event. “One of the guid- and other matters relating Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) the Honorable Ray Mabus passes through sideboys after being inducted as an honorary Chief ing principles of the chief to the academy. Petty Officer at a ceremony at Dahlgren Hall at the U.S. Naval Academy. While visiting the academy, Mabus reenlisted seven petty officer’s mission and From there, Mabus Sailors and also spoke to midshipmen on the subject of leadership. vision is to maintain a sense met with a group of mid- where he served as gover- sors to the brigade. before proceeding to a reen- en Sailors from the Naval of heritage. Chiefs use her- shipmen post-graduate nor from 1988-1992, as well Mabus had lunch with listment ceremony aboard Academy and Naval Sup- itage to connect Sailors to scholars, as well as mid- as several senior enlisted midshipmen from 11th Yard Patrol Craft (YP) 685, port Activity Annapolis. their past, teach values and shipmen from Mississippi, leaders who serve as advi- Company in King Hall where he reenlisted sev- While underway on the enhance pride in service to YP, Mabus observed a nav- our country.” igation and seamanship Force Master Chief Ron- Navy to update fitness reports, evaluations demonstration, including ney A. Wright from Navy a man overboard drill con- Reserve Force present- PRESS RELEASE Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs ducted by midshipmen and ed Mabus with a CPO ball enlisted personnel from cap in lieu of the traditional MILLINGTON, Tenn. — The Navy announced the academy’s Waterfront CPO cover. changes to the performance evaluation system and ad- Readiness Division. In his remarks to the chief vancement policy March 9 to better reflect service as an Mabus had the oppor- petty officers, Mabus spoke Individual Augmentee (IA)/Global War on Terrorism tunity to speak directly to about his own experiences support assignment (GSA) and physical fitness assess- midshipmen on the sub- working with senior enlist- ment results. ject of leadership as part of ed as a junior officer. He The changes apply to all reports ending Aug. 1 or lat- a course in the academy’s served as a surface warfare er and come as a result of Sailor feedback, according to U.S. Navy Photo Department of Leadership, officer on board USS Little NAVADMIN 083/10. New changes include a billet subcategory for Sailors who Ethics and Law. Rock (CG 4). Under the new policy, a new billet subcategory code serve as Individual Augmentees and documenting physical “All of you have chosen “I, like every junior of- will be added to performance evaluation and fitness re- fitness assessments. a more interesting and ul- ficer I think, learned very ports to provide a mechanism for reporting seniors to timately rewarding way quickly to listen to my chief identify Sailors performing an IA/GSA. The new policy also requires reporting seniors to to spend this part of your and take his advice,” said “The IA/GSA billet subcategory was added to ensure document all physical fitness assessments (PFAs) con- life,” said Mabus. “You’re Mabus. “There’s not any- IA and GSA Sailors are recognized for their service away ducted during the regular reporting period using new going to deal with bigger thing else that I’ve found from their parent command and remain competitive with PFA codes on performance evaluation and fitness re- decisions than any of your that compares to what you their counterparts,” said Vice Adm. Mark Ferguson, ports. The change supports Navy’s culture of fitness and peers.” do in the Navy. It’s a unique chief of naval personnel. “Our Sailors are doing great is another tool available to leaders to identify and reward In the lecture, Mabus position. work around the world, whether assigned to tradition- top performers, according to the message. touched upon different “No other organization al billets, joint commands or as an IA. We want to ensure The policy applies to performance reports ending qualities of good leader- puts so much trust in a all Sailors are properly recognized for superior perfor- Aug. 1 or later. Timing of the change minimizes impact ship, such as being honest, group of people. To every- mance.” to selection board deliberations and the advancement showing respect to all and one here, thank you for this Additionally, both concurrent IA/GSA and regular process. not taking anything for amazing honor.” evaluations will be used to determine performance mark For more information, read NAVADMIN 083/10. granted. For more news from U.S. averages and time-in-rate waivers to ensure outstanding For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visit “Lead from the front, Naval Academy, visit www. performance during an IA/GSA is properly rewarded. www.navy.mil/local/npc/. don’t ask somebody to do navy.mil/local/usna/. World War II veterans honored by Hanks, Spielberg

Stephen Spielberg, producer of the new HBO series “The Pacific,” speaks to 250 veterans at the World War II Memorial, March 11, who were flown in to be honored in timing with the show’s premiere. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ALEXANDRA HEMMERLY-BROWN Army News Service

WASHINGTON — About 250 veterans visited the Na- tional World War II Memorial for the first time Thursday and were honored by produc- ers Tom Hanks and Stephen Spielberg in advance of their new HBO series, “The Pacif- ic.” The 10-part miniseries, which airs on HBO begin- ning Sunday, is a fictional tale that documents the lives of three Marines as they fight their way from Guadalcanal Tammy Duckworth, the assistant secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, shares a to Okinawa. conversation with a World War II veteran March 11 at a ceremony honoring about 250 veterans The Honor Flight in timing with the premiere of “The Pacific.” Network, a non-profit or- ganization that sponsors cost-free flights for veter- ans to visit the memorial, partnered with HBO, Amer- ican Airlines, and Marriott Actor and producer Tom Hanks, speaks to 250 veterans at the World War II Memorial March 11 who were flown in to be Hotels and Resorts to fund honored in timing with the premiere of “The Pacific.” the trip for the veterans in conjunction with a special what I was fighting for,” deal of his veteran status -- he viewing of “The Pacific.” Freund said solemnly. just did what his country re- Many of the veterans “I’ve never been honored quired. served in the Pacific World in a group like this before,” The veterans later got an War II theater. said Jim Inglis of Baltimore, exclusive look at the first ep- “I was really pleased. This 85, an Army veteran who isode of “The Pacific,” while is unbelievable ... outstand- served in China. Inglis, who Hanks and Spielberg joined ing,” said retired Air Force hasn’t yet retired from his job President Obama at the pilot and World War II vet- at Northrop Grumman, said White House for a private eran Richard Watkins, 83, of he doesn’t like to make a big screening. Orlando, Fla., of being asked to participate in the event. “I’m so impressed with this whole program,” agreed re- tired Airman Carl L. Brown, 86, of Turnersville, N.J., who served in China, Burma and India during the war. “The Pacific” is based on material from four books writ- ten by World War II veterans as well as original veteran in- terviews. Producers Hanks and Spielberg took time Thursday to honor the peo- ple who inspired their series. “If there was ever a con- tribution to a nation ... it was your strength and your cour- age that defined the greatest generation,” Spielberg said, addressing the veterans. “You said America can be built by ideas if you have the courage to act upon those ideas. We, the baby boomers have tried to live by your example.” Former Senator Elizabeth Dole, a supporter of the Hon- or Flight Network, also spoke at the ceremony. Dole quoted Gen. George Marshall, Army chief of staff during World War II, who when asked if America had a secret weap- on that would ensure victory said, “Oh yes, America’s se- cret weapon is the best darn kids in the world.” “It was you, veterans, those ‘best darn kids’ who won the war,” Dole said. Also present were Tam- my Duckworth, the assistant secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and W. Scott Gould, deputy secre- tary of the VA. “Ordinary Americans hate going to war, which is a par- adox, since it was ordinary Americans who made the difference between liberty and subservience, between freedom and terror, 70 years ago,” Hanks said. Jerome Freund, 85, of New York, a retired Sailor who served in Casablanca, North Africa, and Italy during the war, got emotional when asked how he felt about be- ing part of the event. “It restored my faith in ocean, I was seven years old, and I thought, ‘I want to be a pilot some day,’’” recalled Dolores Reed, 92, WASP Class 44-1. “Not long after, my dad spent a dollar and put me in the back of a plane. That was a lot of money in The Depression. I could barely see over the seat. And when Women we landed, I said ‘I’m going to fl y.’” When she started working, Reed paid $8 per hour for fl ying lessons, and with 35 hours of fl ying under pilots her belt, she applied to be a WASP. “I did aerial gunnery. I fl ew targets Women Airforce Service Pilots of World War II, military four hours a day while the boys members and guests salute a wreath and roses dedicated to sharpened their skills,” she said. of WWII the 38 out of 1,102 women pilots who died during service to Reed also set her sights on her their country during a ceremony at the Air Force Memorial in squadron commander – marrying Arlington, Va., March 9. him and raising three children. She continued fl ying after the WASP inspired was disbanded, taking up air rac- ing. Her friend Josephine Swift, 92, also Class 44-1, said she was hooked generations on fl ying after her brother, a Navy pilot, took her up in the air. She got her private license and worked for BY CAROL L. BOWERS a fl ying service and jumped at the American Forces Press Service chance to be a WASP. “I just applied and they accepted - that was the se- WASHINGTON — Under clear cret, getting accepted,” she said. blue skies, beneath the spires of the For Swift, the two days of cer- U.S. Air Force Memorial, military emonies marked an opportunity aviators gathered to pay homage to Carol Brinton Selfridge, 92, WASP Class 44-5, and her to reminisce with old friends, and the achievements of the fi rst wom- granddaughter, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christy Kayser-Cook, miss the ones who had passed on. en to fl y military aircraft during share a moment during the reception to honor women civilian Carol Brinton Selfridge, 92, Class pilots who fl ew with the Women Airforce Service Pilots at the World War II. 44-5, said fl ying was something she Women in Military Service for America Memorial at Arlington The memorial service and National Cemetery, Va. just had to do after following the wreath-laying ceremony, with a re- achievements of Amelia Earhart ception afterward, was a prelude to and test pilot Jacqueline “Jackie” the March 10 presentation of the Cochran as a child. Sibling rivalry Congressional Gold Medal to the played its part as well, she recalled. 1,102 pilots who served as Wom- “My brother fl ew, and I don’t let my en Airforce Service Pilots during brother get ahead of me,” Selfridge World War II. said. Retired U.S. Coast Guard Vice When she joined the WASPs, Adm. Vivien Crea, the keynote Jan Nicolai holds a photo of Helen Jo Anderson she had two children, who were speaker at the service, told those Severson, a deceased pilot from South Dakota cared for by her mother while she assembled that by answering Amer- who fl ew with the Women Airforce Service Pilots fl ew. Her husband, who worked for ica’s call to duty in 1942, they gave during World War II, during a wreath-laying and Lockheed, could not serve, and Sel- birth to a fl edgling service that remembrance ceremony fridge recalls he told her “I can’t go, would become the WASPs with so you might as well.” achievements that would go on to After the WASPs disbanded, she inspire another generation of wom- went on to have two more children, en in the military. and she now has a granddaughter “As aviators, you possessed an in- in the U.S. Air Force valuable capability that our nation “It means a lot to me to see them desperately wanted,” Crea said. recognized,” said U.S. Air Force “You joined not because you were Lt. Col. Christy Kayser-Cook, Sel- great pioneers, but because of your fridge’s granddaughter, who is great sense of duty. You served assigned to Scott Air Force Base, Ill. America in its time of peril.” “I got interested in fl ying because Nearly 200 of the surviving wom- of my grandmother’s experience, en pilots attended the ceremonies Rose Penn Ross, a pilot who fl ew with the Women Airforce but I think a lot of people haven’t with family and friends, and family Service Pilots during World War II, poses for a photo for heard of the WASPs before.” members represented other pilots. Ola “Roxie” Rexroat and Maxine Flournoy, both her family at the Air Force Memorial after a wreath-laying Selfridge, however, remains mod- ceremony to honor the pilots at the memorial in Arlington, Thirty-eight of those women former pilots who fl ew with the Women Airforce est about her own achievements Service Pilots during World War II. Va., March 10. were honored with roses during and instead conveys pride in her the memorial ceremony for having Cheryl Marie Michell granddaughter’s accomplishment. made the ultimate sacrifi ce for their Van Riper holds the “I don’t know why they’re making country during their service, and photo of her aunt, so much of us because I loved ev- the 20th Fighter Wing from Shaw Marie Mitchell, a ery minute of the fl ying,” Selfridge Air Force Base, S.C., performed a deceased pilot who said. fl ew with the Women fl y-over in the “missing man” for- Airforce Service For Jeannette Goodrum, Class mation. Pilots during world 43-8, the service, reception and an- The WASPs’ service, and their War II, during a ticipation of the March 10 award ability to fl y every type of aircraft, wreath-laying and ceremony were “exhilarating.” Crea noted, prompted U.S. Air remembrance “It’s the greatest story of all to see Force Gen. Henry Harley “Hap” ceremony for all young people who graduated from Arnold to declare, “ ‘We have not 1,102 pilots at the the Air Force Academy because of been able to build an airplane that Air Force Memorial what we did in 1942,” she said. you can’t handle. It is on the record in Arlington, Va., One of those young people March 9. The that women can fl y as well as men.’ ceremony was was U.S. Air Force Maj. Nicole ” part of a two-day Malachowski, the fi rst female Crea herself is an accomplished event in which all Thunderbird pilot, who was among aviator, inspired by the WASPs’ ser- pilots will receive the guest speakers at the recep- vice, serving for 36 years of active the Congressional tion. duty, most recently as the 25th vice Gold Medal at the Malachowski, who was one of the commandant of the Coast Guard. U.S. Capitol for their leaders of the movement to have She became the 21st and only service. the WASPs awarded a Congressio- female Ancient Albatross, a desig- Photos by Linda Hosek nal Gold Medal, said the WASPs’ nation given to the longest serving peace.” celebrate the WASPs’ contribu- its citizens, and you proved that far story “helped write my story.” active duty Coast Guard aviator. From 1942 to 1944, more than tions, not only in wartime service, greater strengths and vitality lie in As a child, she said, she wanted “It has taken over six decades for 25,000 women applied to the WASP but for their pivotal roles as women inclusiveness,” Schwartz said. to be a fi ghter pilot, but few took our nation to recognize the unique program, an Army Air Corps exper- pioneers blazing a trail to the mili- For Jan Nicolai, whose late aunt, her seriously. In 1986, her parents service and valor of the WASPs iment to explore the opportunity tary cockpit. Helen Jo Severson, was in WASP took her to the Smithsonian, where with the Congressional Gold Medal for women to serve as pilots and re- “Pioneers like you often had to Class 43-5, the days of celebration there “was a small display in a dusty you shall receive tomorrow,” Crea lieve men for overseas duty; 1,102 endure persistent criticism, which of the WASPs’ contributions is very back room” about the WASPs, and said. “But your true legacy is much women were accepted. The WASP made your efforts ever more coura- special. She carried roses and a proof that she could achieve her more vital, enduring and transfor- were not granted military status un- geous, and your achievements ever photo of her aunt to the memorial own dreams. mational than that honored piece of til 1977. more substantial,” Schwartz told service. As a Thunderbird performing gold. It is in the young women and At a reception at the Women in the WASPs. “When she was inducted into the in her third air show, Malachows- men, from your peers and your own Military Service Memorial at Ar- The legacy of the WASPs, he South Dakota Air Hall of Fame, and ki recalled how fi ve WASPs children to today’s youngest gener- lington National Cemetery after said, is that these accomplished in 2007 she received her star on her elbowed their way to the front of ation that you have inspired with the service, Gen. Norton Schwartz, women went on to become lead- grave site, we thought that was it,” the line to meet her and get her your patriotism.” U.S. Air Force chief of staff, said ers in civilian life “continuing their Nicolai said at the start of the me- autograph. Crea said that because of the this week’s special events “take us noble efforts to vanquish societal morial service. “But this, this is “I made a beeline for them, and WASPs, there is a new generation back to another era, and not mere- limitations and subtle forms of dis- magnifi cent.” before I could get a word out of my of women fi ghter pilots, lifesavers ly to honor the past, but truly in a crimination” and living the example For many of the women who be- mouth, they were thanking me for and warriors “who enjoy the ab- larger sense, also to correct some of what diversity can mean. came WASPs, it was their love of my service,” she said. “Here are sence of any conception that they of its errors. The well-deserved “You demonstrated that our great fl ying, as much as love of coun- my heroes, and they’re thanking can’t do something because of a co- respect for the WASPs is long over- nation benefi ts most when it right- try, that set them on a course that me. They redefi ned what’s possi- incident of birth … that women are due.” ly harnesses the abundant energy, would change their lives. ble for women who want to serve equal partners in war as they are in Schwartz said it is important to the generosity, the talents of all of “When Lindbergh fl ew over the their country.” CNO: Going to https:// Adm. Roughead addresses myPay.dfas.mil is an easy, secure online way to access your Sailors at Naval Station Norfolk’s military pay and tax statements anytime, anywhere. Use myPay C-9 building auditorium to manage your pay account online Continued from page A1 cific fleet ship – that was about you and your ship- instead of standing in coming from the eastern mates for being able to get line. As a registered have in the Pacific, in the Mediterranean where it the amphibious ready group myPay user, you Arabian Gulf and now back had been doing ballistic underway in less than half also receive E-mail in the Mediterranean.” missile defense. If that is the time that it usually takes updates regarding He also stated what he not a global Navy then I from standby.” important changes believes is an example of don’t know what is.” The CNO also has to to policy, laws and just how far reaching the And he thanked the Sail- look at the Navy’s future. entitlements affecting Navy can be. ors for the work they had “One of the things I your finances. “When we talk about accomplished in Haiti and have to do in Washington the global reach of Navy,” helping the operations is think about the Navy DFAS: Roughead said. “I think it there. of tomorrow,” Roughead Approximately 3.7 million is important to recognize “The work that you said. “When I look at what that the first ship to re- all have done here is ab- we have done recently, users access myPay Web-based spond in Haiti was guided solutely extraordinary,” I think we are in pretty missile destroyer – a pa- Roughead said. “I bragged good shape.” pay account system President honors troops for Haiti service Continued from page A1 vary from one customer cat- centers and mail, the myPay egory to another, all myPay system provides a faster and BY ARMY SGT. 1ST Navy Lt. Sheila Almendras-Flaherty was information is protected. We users can establish alternate more efficient means to com- CLASS MICHAEL J. deployed to Haiti for almost two months want to help our customers login credentials for use by municate with their payroll CARDEN aboard the hospital ship USNS Comfort, American Forces become educated custom- family members, tax prepar- service provider. Press Service where she served as a pediatric nurse. ers, to partner with us to ers or others they trust to Another benefit of the Her experience, although rewarding, was make sure all aspects of their view account information and system is reduced costs in WASHINGTON not easy, having to see so many injured pay – from what they are due download tax statements. delivering pay information to — President Barack children on her medical floor, she said. to how it is delivered – are as “The myPay system has customers. This year, DFAS Obama recognized “I treated them as if they were my own accurate as possible.” been with us for a while,” has saved taxpayers approx- nine military mem- President kids,” she said. “The numbers were pretty Users of myPay have Gustafson said. “Our se- imately $1.5 million in postal bers along with Barack Obama significant, and it was really difficult. The greater control over their curity enhancements have fees by electronically distrib- other federal, state experience is very just very difficult to put pay accounts and can make been developed to counter uting 2009 tax statements via and nongovernmental relief workers here into words.” changes to vital information threats to our customers’ myPay. today for their service to earthquake-rav- Air Force Senior Airman Justin York in a very secure environ- personal and financial infor- “The changes customers aged Haiti. served with the Tennessee Air National ment. Some of the options mation. The growth in what submit via myPay are ef- “Today I want to thank all of them for Guard’s 24th Air Expeditionary Group. Hai- within myPay include: can be accomplished has re- fective immediately,” said leading a swift and coordinated response ti was his first deployment, he said. • Download, save and print flected the needs and wishes Dawn Coulter, the agency’s during one of the most complex humanitar- He shared Almendras-Flaherty’s sen- pay account information from of many recipients of our e-commerce director. “Rath- ian efforts ever attempted,” Obama said. “I timents and expressed the difficulties of military retired or annuitant payroll services. In short, er than waiting for the fax think you represent what’s best in America, searching for survivors amid the rubble account statements, or mili- myPay gives them a way to machine or mail to get the and I could not be prouder of the response and damage. tary/federal employee leave avoid the risks of postal de- information to DFAS, then that all of you engaged in during this hu- “It’s a really sad situation, but I’m happy I and earning statements. livery of their information, waiting for a payroll techni- manitarian crisis.” was able to help,” he said. • Download, save and and a way to really shorten cian to input that information Haitian President Rene Preval attend- For Navy Chief Warrant Officer Wilfred print annual tax statements the amount of time it takes into the pay system, address ed the Rose Garden ceremony to thank Bossous, serving in Haiti also was difficult. such as W-2s and 1099Rs. to update information in our changes, new bank account Obama and his administration for their Wilfred was born in Haiti and came to the • Verify and update postal pay systems. information or other data be- quick response. The United States was United States in 1984 when he was 14 years and e-mail addresses. “But the bottom line is come effective the moment part of global response that arrived in Hai- old. Bossous said he lost 10 family mem- • Verify and update bank still how these users view the customer hits the submit ti almost immediately after a magnitude 7.0 bers to the earthquake. account information for di- the importance and worth of button.” earthquake struck the Haitian capital of “Going back and seeing all the devasta- rect deposit. myPay. Do they understand DFAS officials have ad- Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12. tion, I was taken aback by it,” he said. “But • Start, change or stop fi- their role in keeping their fi- vised all eligible myPay users An estimated 8 million Haitians lost their being in the position to help my natives, I nancial allotments. nancial information current to establish their new login homes, and thousands of others died in the felt blessed. I pride myself on being pro- • Make changes to feder- and accurate?” credentials and keep that in- wreckage. Relief efforts included conduct- fessional and not being too emotional, but al or state tax withholding While DFAS maintains formation secure. Once able ing search-and-rescue missions, treating being able to go back to my homeland was amounts. some of the more tradition- to access the online applica- life-threatening injuries and providing food, very gratifying, and it’s a blessing to have • Change user names and al methods of submitting tion, they are encouraged to water and shelter. had the opportunity to do so.” passwords to keep accounts changes to customer infor- review their pay account in- secure. mation or inquiring about formation and make sure it is While the options may pay issues such as fax, call accurate. COMFORT: Last NMCP personnel return from Comfort’s Haitian relief effort Continued from page A1 weeks before she would allow me to per- form her wound care without screaming. flights starting in late February, as Hai- My most rewarding experience, though, tian emergency medical needs began to was teaching the mother of a two-year- diminish. old how to provide wound care for her Following the quake, more than 130 child.” medical and support personnel depart- Such events occurred in every unit as ed NMCP and embarked the Comfort medical teams cared for a seemingly end- bound for Haiti Jan. 16. The ship arrived less flow of patients. in Port-au-Prince Jan. 20. An addition- “I could not have imagined that I would al contingent of personnel from NMCP be using such a wide array of nursing medical teams, totaling nearly 200 peo- skills and pulling so much from within to ple, joined the ship after it had arrived on accomplish this mission,” Giles added. station in Haiti. “The most rewarding part to me is that Prior to anchoring off Haiti’s coast, I physically saw every patient that came Comfort received severely injured earth- in and off the ship,” Wood added. “Lat- quake survivors via airlift. By the end of er in the mission, I was able to go out to a the relief effort, nearly 1,400 medical per- medical site and saw a lady who we both sonnel from the U.S. military and various remembered each other from the flight non-governmental organizations em- deck of the Comfort, and she was so hap- barked, at some point, to treat patients. py she had to hug me. It was a very nice Throughout seven weeks, the ship’s doc- moment!” tors, nurses and corpsmen treated 871 Photo by MC3 Ryan Steinhour By the time the Comfort weighed an- Moran Tugs help maneuver Comfort towards the pier. The Hospital ship was shrouded in a patients. At the height of the recovery ef- bank of fog minutes to arrival at pierside Naval Station Norfolk. Comfort will return to homeport chor to return home, helicopters ferrying fort, Comfort received one patient every in Baltimore. patients and passengers had touched six to nine minutes. down on the ship’s flight deck 2,124 times. As the leading chief petty officer of Surgical teams had delivered lifesaving Combat Cargo and Medical Operations care. They performed 843 surgeries, am- and also of the Litter Team, it was HMC putated 37 limbs and repaired countless (SW/FMF) Brian A. Wood’s job to over- broken bones and crush injuries. Nine see the embarkation and debarkation of babies were delivered, including twins. those injured, as well as Sailors and sup- Some of the patients treated on board plies headed to medical sites ashore. the ship were U.S. and international mil- “On the flight deck, we saw more than itary personnel transferred to the ship 700 medical evacuations in the first two by physicians on the ground for surgical weeks. The typical day in the early weeks and non-surgical care. As relief efforts in- was ‘chaos’ in the best of forms,” Wood creased and medical treatment facilities recalled. “We literally had helos in the air ashore expanded and regained their ability waiting to land one after another with two to treat more patients and provide great- and three litter patients and three to four er care, the volume of people who needed ambulatory patients on each helo. lifesaving trauma care aboard the ship “The most challenging for me and my began to ease. Doctors discharged Com- crew was maintaining the tempo,” Wood fort’s last patients Feb. 27, leaving the ship continued. “We were working 18 hours empty, except for its 993 remaining crew days the first couple of weeks with pa- members. The decision to bring the ship tients coming in from all over Haiti, via home was made shortly thereafter. our helos – Canadian, French and more.” After several days at sea, Comfort In the first ten days, 540 critically in- emerged from the haze and released its jured Haitians were brought to the ship Portsmouth crew into the welcoming requiring Comfort to run its 10 operating Photo by Harry Gerwien/Military Newspapers of Virginia Photo by MC3 Brian Goodwin arms of family, friends and colleagues – rooms at full capacity for the first time in (L) Elizabeth Raphael just couldn’t hide her happiness at being reunited with her husband Lt. and a staff member’s new baby. the ship’s history. Cmdr. Dan Raphael of HSC-28. Lt. Raphael and his squadron helped with Haitian earthquake NMCP Commander Rear Adm. Kiser “It was like being in the middle of a bat- relief. (R) Lt. Cmdr. Robin Lindsay embraces her family after returning to Naval Station Norfolk. was on the pier to greet staff members tlefield trying to triage so many patients,” was moved from the medicine unit to an and lower extremity fractures, complex returning from Haiti. “The selfless dedica- said nurse Lt. Cmdr. Tracey R. Giles, “and overflow pediatric unit, serving as the day wounds and exposed skulls. tion of our staff, both those who deployed trying to determine just who to take care charge nurse. “It was difficult caring for the children to Haiti on a moment’s notice as well as of first. Each nurse was caring for 10 to “Our team came together flawlessly,” and not getting attached, since many those who stayed behind to keep our mis- 16 patients. I was glad my medical, sur- Giles said. “Within three days of open- were separated from their parents,” Giles sion going here, reflects the very best of gical and wound care skills kicked into ing, our 60-bed unit was more than 60 continued. “One six-year-old patient cried what we do at NMC Portsmouth. overdrive.” percent filled. There were patients from incessantly the first few days for his par- “I have never been prouder to be count- According to Giles, so many of the pa- one month to 23 years old, with amputat- ents. Another four-year-old, who had lost ed among this crew than I am now,” Kiser tients on board were children that she ed fingers, arms, legs and severe upper her right ear, was in our unit for three added. AROUND THE NAVY Officer Candidate School improves its curriculum, increases class size

PRESS RELEASE veloping better prepared From Naval Service Training ensigns and Naval officers. Command Public Affairs In the past, OCS graduated an average of 50 candidates NEWPORT, R.I. — Con- each week. Sixty-four can- stantly seeking methods to didates were commissioned improve officer efficiency as ensigns Feb. 12. In the for the fleet, Navy Officer future OCS is hoping the Candidate School (OCS) class size will increase to an in Newport, R.I., has em- average of 90 candidates. barked on a new course by “The increase in can- making quality improve- didates in each class will ments to its curriculum and level-load the schedule increasing its class sizes. across the fiscal year,” said According to Naval Ser- Cmdr. Sean Higgins, opera- Photo by Gregg Kohlweiss vice Training Command tions officer for OCS. “This Officer candidates take the oath of office during a commissioning ceremony following graduation from Officer Candidate (NSTC), which oversees means better staffing and a School at Naval Station Newport. all Navy accessions train- steadier schedule. We’ll be ing except for the U.S. starting a new class every Naval Academy (USNA), three weeks and have four OCS initiated changes to classes and approximately its curriculum under the 400 candidates on deck at guidance of Rear Adm. Cliff any given time.” Sharpe, NSTC command- For the staff of 10 offi- er, to ensure OCS training cers, 14 senior chiefs and was more parallel to what chiefs, and nine Marine is currently being taught Corps drill instructors, the at the USNA and in Naval challenge has been han- Reserve Officers Training dling the larger classes and Corps (NROTC) units. at the same time incorpo- Aside from the changing rating the changes in the curriculum, the enlarge- academic phases of OCS. ment of OCS classes was “The larger classes can designed to move toward be more demanding,” said a steadier class schedule Brewer. “The first class throughout the year. Larg- had some struggles bal- er classes will also allow for ancing their time and the senior officer candidates instructors and facilitators to guide and mentor junior had to get used to dealing classes. This early leader- with larger numbers. But ship experience gives the in the end, we were able to officer candidates a better meet all of our goals, and grasp on the challenges and it should become easier as opportunities they will have we move forward.” as ensigns in the fleet. OCS Newport had a total Because of the collabor- of 633 officer candidates in ative efforts of the NSTC 2007. For fiscal year (FY) headquarters staff at Naval 2008, the numbers jumped Station Great Lakes, Ill., the to 890 and 1,009 for FY OCS staff at Naval Station 2009. Officials predict the Newport and Officer Devel- number leveling off to just opment (OD) directorate below 1,100 for the next staff at Naval Air Station five years. Pensacola, Fla., OCS was “We are looking at hav- able to broaden its curric- ing 100 candidates in each ulum and now has a more of our classes at the start, robust syllabus. which should equate to 90 “A thorough review of candidates in future gradu- the OCS military, academic ating classes,” said Brewer. and leadership curriculum The demanding 12-week was conducted,” said Capt. OCS course is designed Joseph A. McBrearty, to educate young men and commanding officer of Of- women on the many mili- ficer Training Command tary norms and skill sets (OTC). “We drafted and to prepare them to survive executed a comprehensive in the fleet as officers and revision to the learning ma- leaders of Sailors. trix to which these officer “The results have been candidates are exposed, overwhelmingly positive, fine-tuning the 12-week and I strongly believe that schedule to add significant these future Naval officers amounts of Naval history, are much better prepared engineering and seaman- to solve the challenges of ship topics.” the world which they are Lt. Michael Brewer, about to face as leaders,” OCS’s lead instructor, said said McBrearty. “This has the new curriculum is a sig- been a total team effort nificant change. between Naval Service “We are now putting a Training Command, the greater emphasis on ac- United States Naval Acad- ademic phases,” said emy and Officer Training Brewer. “Candidates from Command.” previous classes indicat- Navy OCS was estab- ed in their end-of-school lished in 1951. The Navy surveys a greater need previously operated two of- for more academic classes ficer candidate programs, and Navy history and her- OCS in Newport and Avi- itage.” ation Officer Candidate Brewer said OCS is now School (AOCS) at Naval teaching 30 hours of Navy Air Station (NAS) Pensac- history and increased class ola, Fla. AOCS trained hours in Naval engineering, prospective naval aviators, weapons systems, naviga- naval flight officers, aviation tion and Navy doctrine. maintenance duty officers OCS is also working with and air intelligence offi- USNA to develop a Navy cers, while OCS trained all leadership course that is other officer communities. similar to what the acade- The original Navy OCS in my teaches their corps of Newport was closed down midshipmen. in April 1994 when the pro- “We teamed with the grams were merged as a United States Naval Acad- single OCS at NAS Pen- emy to introduce a more sacola. Subsequently, in tailored leadership and 2007 the consolidated Navy ethics curriculum into the OCS curriculum was relo- OCS program,” said Mc- cated back to Newport by Brearty. direction of the Base Re- “We now have an officer alignment and Closure here who is constantly talk- Commission of 2005. ing with and sharing ideas For more information on with the academy,” Brew- OCS, visit www1.netc.navy. er said. mil/nstc/otc/ocs.asp. This is an on-going proj- For more news from Naval ect, and NSTC will continue Service Training Command, to refine the curriculum, visit www.navy.mil/local/ with the ultimate goal of de- greatlakes/. SECTION B FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM March 18, 2010 CNIC presents 15 Zumwalt awards to NGIS BY MC1 (AW) TIM COMERFORD The Flagship staff writer

VIRGINIA BEACH — Vice Adm. Michael C. Vitale, Commander Navy In- stallations Command (CNIC) honored 15 installation’s Navy Gateway Inns and Suites (NGIS) by giving them the coveted Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt award for hous- ing and lodging management. The Secretary of the Navy established the Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt award in 1974 to recognize commands that achieve the highest level of service standards. NGIS operations can earn a three, four or fi ve-star rating based on the quality of facilities, amenities, service and fi nan- cial management. Each year, only half of the Navy installations are inspected. Only commands attaining a fi ve-star rating are recognized as Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt award winners. This year, of the 40 installations inspect- ed, 15 installations have met the fi ve-star Zumwalt accreditation standards: •Joint Forces Staff College, Norfolk •Naval Air Station Oceana, Va. Beach •Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Portsmouth Photo by MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford •Naval Weapons Station Yorktown/ Fifteen Installations received the fi ve-star Zumwalt accreditation standards this year. Navy Gateway Inns and Suites operations earn the Three, Four or Five-Star ratings based on the quality of facilities, amenities, service and fi nancial management and each year half of Navy installations See ZUMWALT, B10 are inspected. Only commands attaining a Five Star rating are recognized as Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt award winners.

HBO, Nauticus invite visitors to thank vets and active military Record your own video tribute message and be a part of the HBO Pacifi c Tribute Campaign through video ‘Thank You’ at the Nauticus PRESS RELEASE included in the national montage. Nauticus Public Affairs For those with a friend or family member currently serving, there NORFOLK — In honor of is also an option to send the video WWII veterans, and in apprecia- directly to a soldier. tion of those currently serving, “We’re pleased to be part of HBO is launching a video tribute this national project to let our campaign for the troops, in part- troops know how much we appre- nership with national museums ciate their dedication to serving dedicated to preserving the histo- our country,” said Nauticus Exec- ry of WWII. From now through utive Director Hank Lynch. “Our May 31, visitors to Nauticus’ sec- museum is committed to honor- ond fl oor Forecastle Gallery may ing those that served our country record a free video “thank you” in WWII and recognizing the sac- message as part of HBO Pacifi c rifi ces and contributions of our Tribute Campaign. active duty soldiers and their fam- Select video tributes will be ilies.” collected for a montage that will The tribute campaign coincides appear on HBO.com and will be with the premiere of HBO’s epic distributed to the troops through Photo by Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown miniseries The Pacifi c, based on partnerships with military and Actor Tom Hanks, center, points to 250 veterans at the World War II Memorial March 11, during a speech by HBO the true stories of World War II veterans organizations. The copresident Richard Plepler. The veterans gathered at the World War II Memorial March 11, to be honored in Marines and executive-produced kiosk will be available during reg- conjunction with the premiere of “The Pacifi c,” a miniseries that documents the lives of three Marines as they fi ght by Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg ular Nauticus hours of 10 a.m. to their way through the Pacifi c theater. The Nauticus Museum and HBO are offering free recordings of video “Thank and Gary Goetzman. The Pacif- 5 p.m. daily. Yous” to WWII veterans and active-duty military service members. ic tracks the intertwined real-life The touch-screen kiosk is as uals can record a high-defi nition is the fi rst live, location-based media trends. All videos record- journeys of three U.S. Marines easy to use as an ATM. Using a video of up to 30 seconds and e- broadcast network that embod- ed at Nauticus will go directly to new “MeTV” technology, individ- mail it to any address. MeTV ies many of today’s top social HBO, where select videos will be See THE PACIFIC, B11

NMCRS’s fund raising slapshot Norfolk Admirals help Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society raise funds

BY MC1 (AW) TIM COMERFORD The Flagship staff writer

The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) and the Norfolk Admirals team up to sell tickets and raise money. The Admirals Photo BY MC3 Lauren Randall play the Wilks-Barre Scran- A preschool group from Naval Station Norfolk’s Child Develop Center sang “Wheels on the Bus” and “I Love Rock and Roll” at the grand opening of the Child and Youth 24/7 Center at ton Penguins as they push Naval Station Norfolk, March 12. towards the playoffs, but the stakes have never been higher for the Sailors around Hampton Roads as Naval Station Norfolk holds Child, NMCRS receives more calls for help than ever before. Youth 24/7 Center grand opening “We assisted more than 13,000 cases last year. While we have STORY BY MCSN SCOTT PITTMAN been helping more than ever, the Navy Public Affairs Support Element East ble to watch-standers and shift workers amount of contributions remains who do not work traditional hours. the same,” said Kathy Nelson, Di- NORFOLK — Fleet and Family “This facility is a shell, but it will rector, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Readiness Child and Youth Services morph into a home,” said Capt. Kelly Society, Norfolk. hosted a grand opening ceremony for a M. Johnson, Naval Station Norfolk com- The game is set for March new Child and Youth 24/7 Center at Na- manding offi cer. 26 at 7:15 p.m. at the Norfolk val Station Norfolk March 12. The center combines in-home care Scope Arena. Tickets for red The child and youth center is a $1.2 styles with traditional center-based level are $10. million facility with 4,000 square feet care by providing multiple adults to su- If you want to help out and of space and offers day care 24-hours a day, seven-days a week to remain fl exi- See 24/7 CENTER, B11 See NMCRS, B11 HOMEFRONT NEWS before. Sometimes just a casu- just take care of people the same COMPASS, C.O.R.E. and her base al conversation reveals things you way I would want them to take care Chapel. She was the 2007 Hampton The Ripple Effect have in common. of my mom.” How simple is that! Roads Heroes at Home Spouse of the A year after meeting a good friend Year and was personally awarded the my husband mentioned something Linda is a Navy spouse of 23 Presidential Call to Service Award about where he went to basic and years. She currently volunteers with by President George W. Bush. we discovered that they both were SPOUSE at the same Naval Training Center at the same time, and had recruited through the same Military En- BY LINDA PORT replenishing her IV. My friend trance Processing Station (MEPS) TIP Navy spouse and writer asked him where he was from and in Alaska far from either of their of the week There are a handful of movies out he happily told her he was from hometowns. Stuff like that just h there that have underlying lessons. nearby Chesapeake. He went on makes me smile. They were meant Whatever the storyline, it draws us to share that he loved the area and to meet, and I am sure there are in because we fi nd something in was glad to be near home where he reasons why fate didn’t bring them our own lives to relate it to. Often could help his mom as she faced together until 20 years later. the highlight of the story is some- some health challenges of her own. Without intending to, individu- Botanical Origami - Spring Garden Scene one who inspired or infl uenced He was happy that his work as a als can have a profound effect on Stimulate your mind by learning a new skill with individualized another to strive for something, or corpsman gave him the opportu- us, just as we can unknowingly af- instruction from paper artist Rich Gray in these one-day helped them in a meaningful way. nity to take care of people. What fect them. Someone told a friend workshops. Learn how to fold decorative paper into colorful Hollywood is great that way. We a good Sailor. What a good corps- once that she had literally saved designs for display or gifts. No previous experience required. can pop in a DVD and get some man. What a good person. his life by persistently checking on Students should bring small, sharp-pointed scissors (such as ‘feel good’ on demand. We were truly humbled by his him when he was recovering from embroidery scissors); all other supplies included. Call 441-5830 Our lives are often so busy we sincere and positive dedication and a tragedy he had been involved for more information. sometimes get too focused on what a little embarrassed that we had with. Of course her intentions were is not going right and forget about been feeling so negatively about to help, but she was almost over- Admission: $24 ($18 for NBG members) the good things that are happening the medical system. He was an up- whelmed to hear how seriously it Event Dates: Saturday, March 20, 2010 • 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. right in front of us. lifting dose of ‘feel good’. had helped him. Event location: Norfolk Botanical Garden, 6700 Azalea Garden A dear friend of mine who is a In the military we tend to cross We can’t know when we may be Road, Norfolk geographic bachelor was in the paths with more people than those the ones to affect someone else. hospital for several days and I was from the civilian world might. We We might never know if we made spending each afternoon and eve- don’t often think of the impact an in- a difference along the way so I have ning with her to keep her company. dividual may have on us until later taken the outlook of assuming that Decorative Eggs at Norfolk Botanical Garden Her progress was slower than she when we refl ect on our memories I might. I try to keep a positive at- wished it to be and she was getting of a place or experience. titude and remember that it is easy During this workshop with Adult Program Specialist Alisha frustrated at the limited commu- Sometimes it is the ‘small world’ to smile and give understanding to Brown, Ph.D. will share several ways to create beautifully nication with her caregivers. We factor that wows me. As I have par- someone who might be having a decorated eggs, using all sorts of fl owers and natural dyes. Each spent a great deal of time talking ticipated in workshops for spouses diffi cult time. I realize that there participant will take home a basket of charm and color including about what she desired them to do over the past couple of years I have is usually much more to a situation an “Eggling” with a spring surprise. All supplies included. Call and wondering why she had not yet coincidentally been paired with than I know, or is even my business 441-5830 for more information. been visited by a specialist. Our someone who grew up less than to know and am trying to take a conversations tended to digress to a mile from me and attended the gentler approach when I encounter Admission: $45 ($35 for NBG Members) being rather critical of the system. same high school, and someone people by being less assuming and Event Dates: Saturday, March 20, 2010 • 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Then a corpsman came in to her who was born in the same hospi- judgmental. Event location: Norfolk Botanical Garden, 6700 Azalea Garden room. tal as me. It’s also a great surprise Something that corpsman said Road, Norfolk This young Sailor pleasantly at- when we run into an old friend or sunk in and reminded me of what tended to tidying the room and someone we’ve been stationed with I learned as a kid. He said “I try to Friends, you gotta have ‘em p BY BIANCA Reach out to NewsChannel 3’s Bianca MARTINEZ MARRIED Martinez at [email protected]. to the Military Be sure to check out “Do My Military Job” I have always every Wednesday at 11 p.m. heard it. I have on NewsChannel 3! heard it over and over again and I am sure you have too. “You have to take care of your- self first before your can take care of others.” If you are like me, you have likely thought, “what is that supposed to mean?” Okay, well you know what it is supposed to mean but maybe it is just that we can’t com- prehend how in the world we would make that happen... especially as mili- tary spouses. Let’s face it, after making sure that ev- eryone has everything they need, have gotten to where they need to go and have eaten what they need to eat, there isn’t much time left for you. My typical day starts with the morning rush. Yours too? You have to make sure the kids are fed. You have to make sure lunch- es are made and packed. You have to make sure the dogs are fed and let out. You have to make sure all of the gear is packed for school and whatever is af- terwards. Two days a week for us, it is swimming lessons so that means pack- get a chance to brush my teeth! Then, it ment to hang out with them. Really, they that will be there when I am having a ing the whole swimming bag. Oh and we is off to work until midnight. had already teased me and the hubby bad day and need to chat. These are the do all of that before nine o’clock in the Sure, I should totally make sure to enough about not getting out and being people that make me laugh and make me morning. Then you gotta go to the gro- meet friends for lunch or drinks ... uh, around that I knew we were the losers. feel like something more than mommy cery store or maybe Babies R’ Us before WHEN? I have to say though recent- Let me say though, we are also the ones and employee. There were many hugs, a you go pick up the preschooler. You got- ly, my mom decided to make a point, as with kids. Sometimes it is just so hard to few drinks and lots of laughs. I didn’t re- ta feed those kiddos before you start the most moms do. She fl at out told me, “Bi- pull yourself away. I realized this week- alize how much I needed that until eight nap process including bathroom stops anca, you just don’t have any friends.” end though, that you have to. hours later when we were in the truck and special book time. Then it is time Seriously? Did my mom just call me out It was the St. Patty’s Day parade in headed home. for something for yourself! HA! For me, for being a loser? Did my mom tell me I Norfolk and the first thing my friend Sunday, I was ready to go with the fam- that’s just the time I have to start getting need to go out for some cocktails with Sara says as she opens the door, “Look ily full force. I was happier and had more ready for work. Hey, I will admit that the girls? Yeah, she sure did. She labeled who decided to grace us with her pres- energy because for a few hours, I was may be the first time in the day I even me with a big giant L! I told her (very de- ence.” She was teasing me and not being just Bianca hanging out with friends. As fensively) that I had friends mean, but wow. While I was taking care usual, mom was right. And who thinks (I have great friends) but of my kids, I was neglecting the relation- non-military spouses can’t understand just could not fi nd a mo- ships that I need. These are the people what we need?

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. Legend receives naval astronaut wings aboard ‘Ike’

BY MC1 (SW) AMY KIRK USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs USS DWIGHT D. EISEN- HOWER — Legendary astronaut and former Navy pilot received a pair of honorary Naval Astronaut Wings in a ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) March 10 in recognition for his dedicated service to the Navy and in the field of space exploration. Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on the moon July 20, 1969, was aboard Ike as part of the “Legends of Aerospace” tour sponsored by Morale Entertain- ment. “Today is a special occasion for all of naval aviation. As you can imagine, it is a tremendous honor for me to present Neil Armstrong with astronaut wings,” said Ike’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Dee L. Mewbourne. “We present these wings on behalf of the gen- erations of naval aviators – past, present and future.” Described by many as hum- Photo by MC2 Jon Dasbach Capt. Roy J. Kelley, commander of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, left, and Capt. Dee L. Mewbourne, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. ble and unassuming, Armstrong Eisenhower (CVN 69) present Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the moon, with his Navy Astronaut wings in a ceremony aboard the ship as fellow accepted the wings with great astronaut Jim Lovell, commander of Apollo 13, looks on. The event took place during Legends of Aerospace Tour sponsored by Morale Entertainment. honor. “I take these wings with great more highly then when I received Edward F. Bronson, Armstrong, when they were first presented to As Mewbourne and Capt. Roy pleasure and great pride,” said the wings of gold [for naval avia- who served as a naval aviator Cmdr. Alan Shepard Jr. Kelley, commander, Carrier Air Armstrong. “I have made certain tion]; to be given a second pair of from 1949 to 1952, mentioned he Armstrong qualified for carri- Wing 7, pinned on the wings, achievements in my life and been gold wings is just as special.” never received a pair Naval As- er landing aboard the USS Cabot Armstrong’s friend and Apollo 13 recognized many times, but, Prior to the Ike visit, in a con- tronaut Wings. The wings were (CVL 28) and USS Wright (CVL astronaut Jim Lovell joked that it there is no achievement I value versation with retired Capt. not authorized prior to 1961 49) in 1949. He qualified as a na- was tradition to throw the recipi- val aviator in 1950, and made his ent in a lake after he received his Apollo 11 was the first manned first jet carrier landing on USS Es- wings. mission to land on the Moon. sex (CV 9) in 1951 while assigned Armstrong offered these final Launched on July 16, 1969, to Fighter Squadron 51. words to the crowd, “You will be the third lunar mission of During the ceremony, Arm- surprised how much of this [the NASA’s Apollo Program was crewed by Commander Neil strong said that since that time Navy] will follow you through the Alden Armstrong, Command nearly everything in his career rest of your life,” said Armstrong. Module Pilot Michael Collins, has had its roots in naval avia- “You all have a long naval life and Lunar Module Pilot Edwin tion. ahead of you, and it’s great.” Eugene ‘Buzz’ Aldrin, Jr. The “I have learned so much Others in attendance, as part of first steps by humans on throughout my career and I owe a the “Legends of Aerospace” tour another planetary body were tremendous amount to the Navy,” were Gene Cernan, the last man taken by Neil Armstrong and he said. on the moon, retired Brig. Gen. Buzz Aldrin on July 20, 1969. Mewbourne expressed grati- Steve Ritchie, the last Air Force The astronauts also returned to Earth the first samples tude to Armstrong for enriching pilot ace, and Bob Gilliland, a test from another planetary the lives of all Ike’s Sailors by pilot and the first man to ever fly body. Apollo 11 achieved its visiting the ship and sharing his the SR 71 Blackbird, known then primary mission – to perform stories and experiences. as the fastest and highest-flying a manned lunar landing and “You reminded us that we need production aircraft in the world. return the mission safely to to push the envelope every day, For more news from USS Dwight Earth – and paved the way but also stay professional,” said D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), visit for the Apollo lunar landing Mewbourne www.navy.mil/local/cvn69/. missions to follow. AP File Photo CHAPLAIN’S CORNER Local Seven Deadly Sins: Pride

BY LT. CMDR. service times peril. Typically, a person at and glory!’” true credit was due. In- MAURICE A. BUFORD Marine Corps University this stage ignores sound The words were no soon- stead, in the prime of his Chaplain feedback and presses for- er out of his mouth than a power, he stuck out his ward based upon their own voice out of heaven spoke, chest and boldly declared, LDS PROGRAMS Jim Collins recently mindset. Because they ‘‘This is the verdict on ‘‘Look at this, Babylon the conducted a study with a ‘‘know it all” or think they you, King Nebuchadnez- great! And I built it all by JEB Little Creek Chapel Worship Schedule: collection of Fortune 500 are smarter than every- zar: Your kingdom is taken myself, a royal palace ade- Noon — Sun. Worship (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) corporations that experi- one else, they typically do from you. You will be driv- quate to display my honor 8 p.m. — Wed. Bible Study enced a moral meltdown. more talking as opposed to en out of human company and glory!” (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) In the book, Why the listening. and live with the wild an- Allow me to ask you a Mighty Fall, Collins dis- (d) Grasping for sal- imals. You will eat grass blunt question, ‘‘Are you covered that the powerful vation. At this place the like an ox. The sentence is walking upon the meta- fall not overnight but rath- leader desperately begins for seven seasons, enough phorical balcony of life and NAVAL STATION NORFOLK er through a litany of subtle to reach out for help. They time to learn that the High bragging about everything stages. only reach out, unfortu- God rules human king- you have done in your ROMAN CATHOLIC PROTESTANT Such phases include: nately, because they see doms and puts whomever family, the command, the Our Lady of Victory Chapel David Adams Memorial (a) Hubris born of suc- the handwriting on the wall he wishes in charge.” It community and even in the Mass Schedule: Chapel Worship Services: cess. At this place a leader but it is often too late. happened at once. Nebu- nation?” If so, come with 11:45 a.m.— Wed. 10:30 a.m.— Sun. asserts an arrogant sense (e) Capitulation to irrele- chadnezzar was driven me and let’s review a few 10 a.m.— Sun.. Worship of entitlement. Such per- vance or death. At this place out of human company, things. For more information call sonalities truly believe that the marriage is dissolved, ate grass like an ox, and (1) People helped us Naval Station Norfolk Chapel 444-7361 they are better than some- the company is bankrupt; was soaked in heaven’s along the way. Isaac New- one else because they have an individual gets relieved dew. His hair grew like the ton captures this point best a certain status, position, of duty or in the context of feathers of an eagle and when he declared, ‘‘If I or ideology in life. This combat, I would argue, bad his nails like the claws of a have seen further it is by mindset, if left unchecked, things can happen. hawk.” standing on the shoulders JEWISH PROGRAMS can quickly escort one into I would contend that Col- In the above passage we of giants.” Newton could being that arrogant per- lins’ stages can also be fi nd (as we would say back not have formulated any Commodore Uraih P. Levy Chapel: Jewish services are son that believes the entire found in the life of King home) King Nebuchadne- mathematical equation or at Norfolk chapel in Building C7 on the Second Floor universe revolves around Nebuchadnezzar. In Dan- zzar getting the big head. excelled in his profession every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Building C7 is located at 1630 them. iel 4:28-33, we fi nd hubris Historians would agree without the assistance of Morris St. on Naval Base Norfolk. For more information (b) The undisciplined born of success in full ef- that he was perhaps the people. My friend, a lot of call 444-7361 or 7363. pursuit of more. At this fect. Observe: ‘‘All this most infl uential, charis- people have invested into place the leader no longer happened to King Nebu- matic, and talented ruler your ‘‘success” along life’s keeps the main thing the chadnezzar. Just 12 months the Babylonians had ever way. A parent’s wisdom, a main thing. Since they be- later, he was walking on the seen during the 597 B.C. coach’s encouragement, MUSLIM PROGRAMS lieve they ‘‘have arrived” balcony of the royal palace era. His ability to inspire a teacher’s commitment, Masjid al Da’wah in life, they often get out of in Babylon and boasted, and mobilize an entire na- a co-worker’s talent, a 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7): Muslim services are their own lane and pursue ‘Look at this, Babylon the tion was indeed something child’s understanding, and at Norfolk chapel every Friday at 1:30 p.m. something beyond their great! And I built it all by to behold. The problem, a spouse’s love pushed specialty. myself, a royal palace ade- however, is that the King you and me to where we (c) The denial of risk and quate to display my honor failed to give credit where are today. In light of this, the next time you are in the spotlight, please be JEB LITTLE CREEK CHAPEL sure to give them a shout United through reading out too. Because it is a ROMAN CATHOLIC Confessions: true saying, we are stand- Mass Schedule: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. — Sat. ing on the shoulders of 5 p.m.— Sat. PROTESTANT giants. (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) 9 a.m. — Sun. School (2) Realize the truth of 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m. — Sun. (4 years-Adult) Proverbs 16:18. Solomon 11:30 a.m. — Tues. - Fri. 10:30 a.m. — Sun. indicates that, ‘‘Pride goes (except holidays) Divine Worship, before destruction and Children’s Church a haughty spirit before a (Ages 4-10) fall.” In other words, when- PWOC: Bible Study at the Chapel Annex Every Wed. ever we get the big head Fellowship: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: 10 a.m. - noon or step into Collins’ notion PWOC: Evening Bible Study Every Mon.: 7 p.m. of hubris born of success, Latter Day Saints Coffeehouse stand by for a fall and de- 11:30 a.m. — Sun. 6 p.m. — Sun. struction. Why? We can potentially lose our hunger For more information call JEB for excellence and get too Little Creek Chapel 462-7427 complacent. Ask any NFL team that had a winning season before the Super Bowl about the danger of arrogance. Holy Week (3) It’s not about us. The fi nal point that needs to be and Easter schedule highlighted is that things can be turned around if we Roman Catholic Easter Schedule stop focusing on ourselves. When this point becomes Palm Sunday...... March 28, 10 a.m. clear, I would argue, we Distribution of palms will no longer care who Holy Thursday...... April 1, 7 p.m. gets the credit, as long as Mass of the Lord’s Supper God receives the glory. We Good Friday...... April 2, 7 p.m. will no longer worry about Celebration of the Lord’s passion Photo by MC2 Kelvin Edwards the small things, because Easter Sunday...... April 4, 10 a.m. Religious Program Specialist Seaman Christopher Dyes records Religious Program there is always someone Mass of the Resurrection (No Confessions) Specialist 1st Class Lunar Odhiambo reading to her children as part of the United Through Reading program aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS else in a worst situation. Protestant Easter Schedule Bataan (LHD 5). Bataan is supporting Operation Unifi ed Response off the coast of Haiti We will no longer be a per- son that only takes from Easter Worship Service...... April 4, 10:30 a.m. after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake Jan. 12. life but rather we will move to an ‘‘it is more blessed to give than receive” mode. As for King Nebuchad- nezzar, it took him a while but he too fi nally realized that (1) people helped him along the way, (2) under- stood the truth of Proverbs 16:18 and (3) embraced an ‘‘It’s not about us” ideology. The results? Daniel 4:36-37 explains that, ‘‘At the same time that I was given back my mind, I was also giv- en back my majesty and splendor, making my king- dom shine. All the leaders and important people came looking for me. I was re- established as king in my kingdom and became great- er than ever. And that’s why I’m singing — I, Nebu- chadnezzar — singing and praising the King of Heav- en: ‘‘Everything he does is right, and he does it the right way.†He knows how to turn a proud person into a humble man or woman.” Pray with me: ‘‘God cre- ate in me a humble and wise heart to truly under- stand that to you belongs all the glory, the honor and the power. Forever. Amen.” NMCRS visiting nurse recognized at Naval Medical Center

BY REBECCA A. PERRON able to expand the service ten to their concerns and Naval Medical Center throughout the country help locate appropriate re- Portsmouth Public Affairs after receiving a three- sources. year grant in 2008 from Once the patient is in an PORTSMOUTH the California Communi- outpatient status, the vis- — Commander Naval Med- ty Foundation. There are iting nurse works with the ical Center Portsmouth now 11 VNCCAP visiting patient and family in order (NMCP) presented a cer- nurses around the coun- to assess their under- tificate of appreciation to try, including in California, standing of treatments, a member of the Visiting Texas and Washington medications and restric- Nurse Combat Casualty State. Thirty-six other vis- tions, helps them identify Assistance Program (VNC- iting nurses make visits unmet needs and possi- CAP) March 2. to CCA patients that are ble resources, serves as In recognition of Patty in the nurses’ immediate an easily accessible con- Kotora’s work to establish area. tact for when problems the VNCCAP at NMCP The visiting nurses or questions arise, and re- Rear Adm. William R. Kis- receive referrals from var- mains an advocate for the er presented Kotora with ious military and civilian patient and family as they a certificate of apprecia- agencies, including the adjust to the changes in tion. Photo by MC2 (SW/AW) William Heimbuch Wounded Warrior Reg- their lives. Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Commander Rear Adm. William R. Kiser presents Patty The VNCCAP, part of iment, Marine Liaison, Currently, the visiting Kotora with a certificate of appreciation March 2 for her work to establish the Navy-Marine Navy-Marine Corps Relief Corps Relief Society Visiting Nurse Combat Casualty Assistance Program at NMCP. Navy Safe Harbor, DoD nurses have contact with Society’s (NMCRS) nurs- nurse case managers, so- more than 750 service ing component, works where in the country at no “I am grateful for the the previous year, and I cial workers at military members and families and with service members cost to the service mem- recognition, but I am more worked to expand it,” said treatment facilities and made more than 9,000 vis- who have been wounded ber. grateful to have the pro- Kotora. the Veterans Administra- its in 2009. in Iraq, Afghanistan and “The impact [of NMCRS] gram here in Portsmouth, “In July of 2009, my hus- tion, caseworkers within The goal for 2010 is to the Arabian Gulf, as well is immeasurable,” said so we can continue to help band received orders to NMCRS and counselors at increase the amount of as their families. Kiser while awarding the those injured Sailors and NMCP, and I asked to es- Military One Source. travel to service members Visiting nurses iden- certificate. “It’s truly the Marines find recovery and tablish the program here. While the patient is in a and families in order to tify needs and concerns work of the heart. You a positive future,” said Ko- I currently accept new re- hospital or rehabilitation continue to provide face- that affect the entire fam- make such a difference tora. ferrals and follow cases setting, the visiting nurse to-face contact as they ily and help them adjust and you help keep faith Kotora originally began of service members who will assist the service transition from the mili- to the changes in their strong. People who do it working with the program have relocated to various member and their family tary to civilian life. lives as a result of their best are those who quiet- at Camp Lejeune, N.C., in parts of the country.” in the understanding the For more news from wartime service. The pro- ly leave goodness in their May 2008. The program originated service member’s injuries, Naval Medical Center gram provides long-term, wake without a lot of fan- “The CCA program at in the Washington, D.C., diagnosis, and recovery/ Portsmouth, visit www. face-to-face follow-up any- fare.” Lejeune had been started area in 2006. NMCRS was rehabilitation process, lis- navy.mil/local/NMCP/.

U.S. 2nd Fleet recognizes USS Kearsarge’s accomplishments

BY MC1 PHIL BEAUFORT Mel Williams Jr. spoke about how well you’ve done in your ilies make for us. We signed up up to the challenge of being USS Kearsarge Public Affairs the high readiness standards recent pre-deployment certifi- for this life and by extension, we the personal representative of NORFOLK — The command- he holds for C2F capabilities, cations,” said Williams. “When I have also asked our families to Vice Adm. Williams, whatev- er of U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) visited to include the designated C2F read the report on how well you sacrifice, serve, and support us. er the tasks he sets before us,” amphibious assault ship USS Ke- flagship. did, I couldn’t have been proud- We must always acknowledge said Clark. “I also know that arsarge (LHD 3) March 2 to speak “Although day to day the er to also have Kearsarge as the their service and communicate as soon as we complete all our to Sailors and recognize the ship’s Second Fleet staff performs op- designated C2F flagship. to them our appreciation.” pre-deployment qualifications, support as C2F’s flagship. erational level command and Williams also spoke about the Williams also presented a Kearsarge is going to hit the Kearsarge became C2F’s flag- control ashore from its Mari- sacrifices men and women of plaque commemorating the ground running and leave ev- ship Jan. 12 and stands ready to time Operations Center,” said the Armed Services continual- ship’s service as his flagship to eryone else in our wake.” respond to various command Williams, “there is also an op- ly undergo, and the effect it has Kearsarge’s Sailor of the Year, Williams completed his visit commitments, ranging from erational imperative for the on their families. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Han- to Kearsarge with a tour of the humanitarian assistance and headquarters staff to be re- “As I look around, I see ded- dling) 1st Class Gentle J. Clark. ship’s Engineering main spaces disaster relief to transporting sponsive at sea. The designated icated people,” said Williams. Clark said it was an honor to and Medical department. Marines into harm’s way. Second Fleet flagship supports “People with families, and I represent the crew of Kearsarge For more news from USS Ke- During an all hands address to this mission need.” think it is important that we all in accepting the recognition. arsarge (LHD 3), visit www. the Kearsarge crew, Vice Adm. “It was brought to my attention consider the sacrifices our fam- “I know that Kearsarge is navy.mil/local/lhd3/. FACES OF DEFENSE Rebellion and a team from pate in their own version of Amarillo. ultimate fi ghting. National Guardsmen’s roller derby “We all went to our fi rst They like to have fun and bout together and Kristin they like to play rough, as antics prove they ain’t no pin up girls and I looked at Karli and their motto, “Skate fast and Black said, ‘We have to do this!’” kick butt,” states. Once the and said duMonceau, who ladies step foot in the rink, attended high school in Fol- they immediately transform ey, Minn., before moving to into their “alter egos.” Oklahoma City six years Wahkahquah, or “Roll- ago. “We can be pretty ing Death” as she is known Blue persuasive like that some- by her Red Dirt Rebellion times.” sisters, bulldozes her way Initially, Wahkahquah through a crowded pack of was thinking, it has been fi ve girls as she makes way at least 10 years since she for the “jammer.” had donned a pair of roll- Sloan, or “Bruise Clues” er skates, but she was up to as she is known in roll- the challenge nonetheless. er derby circles, fi nds the “I’m sure I must have “hole” and darts in and out looked like a baby giraffe of the “pack” as she bursts on skates out there at fi rst,” her way through, carefully quipped Wahkahquah, who dodging opposing “block- also hails from Oklahoma ers” as they lunge at her City. “There were a lot of with bad intentions. bumps and bruises initial- The jammers, duMon- ly, but it’s proven to be a lot ceau or “La Fleur de Mort” of fun.” among them, claw their way The Red Dirt Rebellion Rollergirls spend a few minutes primping before their Feb. 27 bout with the Los Angeles Derby Dolls at Founded in July 2007 by through what seems like a the Cox Convention Center in Oklahoma City, Okla. The Guard trio, who is expected to deploy next year to Afghanistan, uses a group of women with pre- school of piranhas, while roller derby to blow off steam and stay physically fi t for their National Guard mission. vious fl at track experience, the blockers catch an op- the Red Dirt Rebellion Roll- posing skater off guard and STORY AND PHOTOS Lt. Kristin Sloan and Sgt. All are members of became interested in roller ergirls are members of send her skidding across BY SGT. 1ST CLASS Karli Wahkahquah as they the Oklahoma Army Na- derby after attending a bout Oklahoma’s only all-female the fl oor. DARREN D. HEUSEL haul their tired rears off the tional Guard’s military one evening between the banked track roller derby Belly fl ops and broken Special to American Forces banked oval track. intelligence community and Oklahoma City Red Dirt league. jaws, bloody noses and Press Service While fl at track roller twisted ankles come with derby has taken the nation the territory. But these la- OKLAHOMA CITY by storm in recent years, dies embrace fear as if to — Some Soldiers will do the Red Dirt Rebellion is say, “bring it on!” almost anything to stay in one of only 11 elite banked After an intense bout, the shape. track roller derby teams in skaters may seek treatment In the case of three Sol- the nation. for their wounds. But, you diers from the Oklahoma In its hay-day, roller der- won’t see a single unhap- Army National Guard, by was one of the most py girl in the bunch. They’ll they are choosing to lace popular sports broadcast on limp outta there with a grin up some skates and strap TV. The late 1970s brought on their face and glimps- on elbow and knee pads as viewers professional wres- es of roller derby glory in members of the Oklaho- tling-style derby with co-ed their eyes, eager to live on ma City Red Dirt Rebellion teams, heated fi st fi ghts and to fi ght another day. Rollergirls. and dramatic moves. “There are defi nitely For those new to the Then, as if overnight, it some dedicated people on sport, this ain’t your mom- disappeared from public our team,” duMonceaux ma’s roller derby of the view...only to re-emerge 20 said. ‘70s either, when prac- years later with a totally re- What makes the fe- tically every move was vamped attitude. You won’t male trio successful on the choreographed like profes- often see men on the der- banked track is the tena- sional wrestling. by track anymore, unless cious attitude and “can-do” No, this is the real deal -- they’re sporting a black spirit that helps them thrive as evidenced by the bruised and white striped jersey and survive in the Guard. and battered bodies of 1st The Red Dirt Rebellion Rollergirls look to score a point during a roller derby bout against the and a whistle. As for their sports prow- Lt. Jessica duMonceau, 1st Los Angeles Derby Dolls. You won’t see clothes-lin- ess, all claim to have been ing, bunny hopping or any standout athletes in high overly dramatic “scripted” school. Their roller skating moves either. What you will experience, on the other see are short skirts, fi sh- end, varied from shuffl ing net stockings, tattoos and along the rails at a local smash-mouth roller derby skating rink to navigating action. some fi erce obstacle course All the hits, spills, falls with inline skates. and breaks are real and re- All said roller derby has vered in the roller derby helped them elevate their community. physical fi tness, however. Named after the infamous “We’re guaranteed at “red dirt” of Oklahoma and least three practices per their wild “rebellious” spir- week, even more than that its, members of the Red if we have a bout coming Dirt Rebellion Rollergirls up,” Wahkahquah said. come from all different life- Sloan said their expe- styles and backgrounds, rience has helped with from graphic designers recruiting as well. and nurses, to stay-at-home Sporting a baby blue moms and Soldiers. Thunderbird on their right The ladies get together shoulder symbolic of the at least three nights a week parent 45th Infantry Bri- and for a few bone-crushing gade Combat Team under hours, they fl y around the which they serve, Sloan track hurling themselves at each other as they partici- Continued next page FACES OF DEFENSE Continued from page B6 period and skating to a 231- take an extended leave of 29 victory. absence next year with an Still, that didn’t discour- impending deployment to said some of the other girls age Oklahoma’s Guardsmen Afghanistan looming on the Sgt. Karli “Rolling will come up to them and or their teammates, who horizon. Death” Wahkahquah, say, “Hey, tell us about the graciously turned out en “Maybe we can get the 1st Lt. Kristin “Bruise National Guard.” masse to sign autographs USO to send our roller girls Clues” Sloan and 1st Lt. Jessica “La Fleur de As important as being and pose for photographs over to see us,” duMon- Morte” duMonceaux, in shape and picking out with hundreds of adoring ceaux wondered aloud. all members of the the perfect accessories to fans after the bout. Some might consid- Oklahoma Army highlight their uniform are, “I think we’re going to er roller derby extreme. National Guard, so is choosing the perfect be around for a while,” said But for Oklahoma’s Guard proudly show off nickname to capture their Wahkahquah. trio, sustaining a few more their dainty, powder persona. “Yeah, definitely,” lament- bumps and bruises in the blue Thunderbirds -- They all say it is “a big deal” ed Sloan. rugged, mountainous ter- symbolic of the parent because once you choose a Although, they all admit- rain of Afghanistan might 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team under name; it becomes registered ted they likely will have to just make them feel right at which they serve. and is theirs forever. “Someone can call and ask to create a version of your name, but they have to get your permission,” Wah- kahquah said. Wahkahquah’s last name in Comanche means “rid- ing death.” So, in keeping with the Native American theme, she chose “Rolling Death” as her alter ego. In French, duMon- ceaux’s name means “the mound.” So, she “just went a little darker,” as she put it, with “La Fleur de Mort,” which means “the flower of death.” Sloan said the nickname she arrived at, “Bruise Clues,” is probably the least exciting of the three. “That’s just the one I end- ed up liking,” she shrugged. “It was an original.” “We spent about two weeks calling each other and asking, ‘What do you think of this? What do you think of that?’” Wahkahquah said. “Choosing the right name is a big deal.” As for the reaction the Guardsmen get from peo- ple when they discover they are members of the Red Dirt Rebellion, they said most people at first don’t realize Oklahoma has a team. Second, they said, people will ask, “Is that real?” “I tell them everything about it is definitely real,” Wahkahquah said, point- ing to the bruises on her left arm. For those roller derby en- thusiasts who attended the Red Dirt Rebellion’s Feb. 27 bout with the world fa- mous Los Angeles Derby Dolls at the Cox Conven- tion Center in Oklahoma City, the sport was viewed all too real for the 2,100 or so in attendance. The Derby Dolls, a team made even more popular after being prominently fea- tured in Drew Barrymore’s 2009 directorial debut mov- ie “Whip It,” put a beat down on their hosts, open- ing up a 68-5 lead after one Gunston Hall Sailors refurbish Childhood Development Center STORY AND PHOTO BY Albany, N.Y., had fun playing with MC2 (SW/AW) JOHN STRATTON the children. USS Gunston Hall Public Affairs “A few of us sang and read books to the children,” said Brelsford. SEKONDI, Ghana — Sail- “This is the kind of stuff you join the ors from USS Gunston Hall (LSD Navy for and to have the opportuni- 44) and Africa Partnership Station ty to help out an organization that (APS) West took part in a commu- helps kids is great.” nity relations (COMREL) project “What we’re doing over the next March 11-13 at St. Theresa’s Ear- three days will give these kids a ly Childhood Development Center positive learning environment,” during the ship’s port visit to Gha- said Logistics Specialist Seaman na. Apprentice Brian Welch, from Or- Sailors taking part in the COM- lando, Fla., another Gunston Hall REL March 11 prepared the center Sailor. for work to be done the following St. Theresa’s was built in 1935 and two days. currently has 185 students, ranging Sailors scraped paint from exte- from ages 2 to 6. rior walls and cleaned them, while Both the head mistress and school others began a site survey of what priest were excited to have Gunston grounds keeping needed to be Hall Sailors helping out. done. “We are very, very grateful for this “Our main goal for this first day help,” said Florence Adei, head mis- is exterior protection,” said Con- tress for the development center. struction Electrician 1st Class “You all coming here is God’s in- (SCW/IUSS) Keith Evans, from tervention,” said Eshun Anthony, a Mansfield, Ohio, assigned to Na- priest for the center. val Mobile Construction Battalion Gunston Hall is on a scheduled (NMCB) 7. “We have 15 gallons deployment in 6th Fleet’s Area of Re- of primer that we’ll use today, and sponsibility in support of APS West, Engineman Fireman Monet Hefner, from San Diego, assigned to the Whidbey Island-class amphibious dock then we’ll start painting the last two an international initiative developed landing ship USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) plays soccer with children at St. Theresa’s Early Childhood Development days.” by Naval Forces Europe and Naval Center in Sekondi, Ghana. Gunston Hall Sailors are participating in a three-day community relations project to Applying primer and general Forces Africa that aims to improve refurbish the center. Gunston Hall is on a scheduled deployment in West Africa supporting Africa Partnership grounds keeping weren’t the only maritime safety and security in West Station (APS) West, an international initiative developed by Naval Forces Europe and Naval Forces Africa, which things keeping the Sailors busy. and Central Africa. aims to improve maritime safety and security on the African continent. Lt. Megan Brels- For more news from USS Gunston ford, Gunston Hall’s Hall (LSD 44), www.navy.mil/lo- medical officer, from cal/lsd44/. Group therapy at FFSC of Hampton Roads BY MC2 MANDY HUNSUCKER The Flagship staff writer The Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) of Hampton Roads would like to highlight two psycho- therapy support groups offered to active-duty ser- vice members as part of their counseling theme for the month of March. week on Thursdays 1:30 The two groups are - 3:30 p.m. at the Norfolk Changes and Changing FFSC. Participants are Anger Patterns Support encouraged to attend a (CAPS). Both groups minimum of four sessions. require an initial assess- This support group is not ment or prescreening to meant for those who have determine eligibility, and lost a relationship due to is given by a facilitator of death. the respective group. CAPS is an education- According to a handout al psychotherapy support provided by Sallie Avery, group for active-duty mil- licensed clinical social itary personnel who are worker, FFSC, group psy- seeking to better man- chotherapy is intended to age and express their help people focus on in- angry feelings, accord- terpersonal skill building ing to a FFSC handout. and problem resolution. The group is helpful for Members of groups share those who have shown personal experiences, anger in unproductive thoughts and feelings with or inappropriate ways to- each other and receive wards co-workers, family feedback from peers and members or peers. Group facilitators. This feedback members participate in helps each participant to supportive discussions de- identify maladaptive be- signed to increase anger haviors and thoughts, and identification, control and to learn more appropri- acceptable expression. ate patterns of behaviors. “With CAPS there are Topics discussed arise objectives such as recog- spontaneously from the nizing your anger cues, group participates and techniques for controlling are not pre-formulated your anger, communica- as in most educational tions skills and things like classrooms. Groups are that. Each session usually ideally suited for people has a topic or subject mat- struggling with issues of ter,” said Debbie Anthony, intimacy, trust, self-es- social worker, FFSC. “The teem and interpersonal psychotherapy part of it relationships. Group con- is that there’s still some text and group process is group interaction and explicitly utilized as mech- people can bring differ- anisms for change. ent perspectives to share The Changes support with one another. There’s group, according to Av- a lot of value in being able ery, provides an arena for to get someone else’s per- participants to process and spective, that may have grieve the loss of or change gone through something in a significant other. similar to you.” “When there’s a loss of The CAPS group meets relationship due to divorce for eight weeks every or separation, you’re whole Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. at identity tends to change, the Norfolk FFSC. Enroll- and so this group is there ment in the CAPS group to help participants reas- requires an assessment sume and reassert their appointment with a group own strengths and confi- facilitator. dence,” said Avery. “The For more information therapy is a process of about psychotherapy group change and so the facil- services offered by FFSC itators, the other group visit www.cnic.navy.mil/ members or the process navylifema. To schedule of group itself can facili- an appointment for either tate and support change.” psychotherapy groups, call Changes meets once a 444-2102. Selective Reenlistment Bonus offers financial rewards to Sailors BY MC3 ANDREW RIVARD (EAOS), receive bonuses USS Wasp Public Affairs from $60,000 to $90,000. Sail- ors serving in Tiers 2 and 3 NORFOLK — Despite who received an early pro- budgetary constraints, the mote may also reenlist early Selective Reenlistment within the same fiscal year Bonus (SRB) is still an im- as their EAOS, and receive Photo by MC2 Julio Rivera portant part of the Navy’s bonuses between $45,000 An MH-60S Sea Hawk approaches the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) after picking up cargo retention efforts, and Sailors and $75,000. from the dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) during a vertical replenishment. Bataan and Carter Hall are participating aboard USS Wasp (LHD 1) “The money I received in Operation Unified Response providing military support capabilities to civil authorities helping stabilize and improve the have recently taken advan- for my reenlistment will re- situation in Haiti following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake Jan. 12 tage of it. ally help my wife and me “SRB is a very well func- out a lot,” said Fire Control- tioning incentive that makes man 2nd Class Patrick W. Bataan Sailors return to people want to reenlist and Hood. “It’s going to build up try to finish up their career,” our savings, help me pay off said Aviation Boatswain’s some bills, and with a baby revitalized Grand Goave, Haiti Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class on the way we could use BY MC1 DANIEL A. BRISTOL (AW/SW) Maques D. Pete, all the extra money we can USS Bataan Public Affairs ple of this town are getting out and governmental organizations work who works in Wasp’s Com- get.” taking back what was once theirs to return to their pre-earthquake mand Career Counselors “Although I didn’t reenlist GRAND GOAVE, Haiti — … they’re starting to get their life capacities. office. for the money, the bonus I Sailors aboard the multipurpose back to normal.” “Everybody understands the mis- Seven Wasp Sailors have received helped me to build amphibious assault ship USS Bata- The day was mostly about visit- sion at hand,” said King. “It’s a hard recently received SRBs. up my savings,” said Infor- an (LHD 5) and embarked Marines ing the town and the population the mission. It’s a marathon mission, To determine who is eligi- mation Systems Technician from the 22nd Marine Expedition- crew had become such a big part of, not a sprint, and we are here for ble and for what amount, 2nd Class (SW/AW) Renei- ary Unit return to the city of Grand but Sailors also brought along med- the long haul. After completing a the Navy has divided those ka Gibson. Goave, Haiti, March 12, a town they ical supplies, food and a few boxes seven-month deployment and then seeking to reenlist into three In order to receive a SRB, helped in the immediate aftermath of toys for the kids. coming out here for a relief mis- different “zones” and “tiers.” Sailors must submit pre- of the Jan. 12 earthquake. Bataan’s medical team made it a sion, it’s hard, it’s taxing, but it’s Sailors who have been in certification requests to Grand Goave became Bataan’s point to stop by the Lifeline Chris- also rewarding. We have the capa- the Navy six years or less PERS-811 no later than 35- adopted town when the ship arrived tian Ministries Mission, where they bility to help people in need, that is are in Zone A, while Zone B 120 days in advance of the off the coast Jan. 18. Sailors spent had spent so much time caring for rewarding in itself.” consists of Sailors between requested reenlistment nearly a month clearing rubble, dis- earthquake victims. As the Sailors and Marines walked six years and 10 years. Zone date. Requests submitted tributing aid, building shelters and Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class two-by-two back through the center C Sailors have between 10 less than 35 days prior to the providing medical care in Grand Casey Goodman, who treated med- of town, the residents lined the cob- and 14 years of service. reenlistment date without Goave before turning the mission ical patients at Lifeline many times blestone streets to wave and show In addition, the three tiers substantial justification will over to non-governmental organiza- before, said the number of patients their appreciation. formally prioritize Sailors be rejected. tions last month. being seen in the clinics has been Bataan has been on station off the according to enlisted rat- The current Naval Ad- “It looks like a town’s coming greatly reduced over the last few coast of Haiti since Jan. 18, support- ings/skills, replacement ministration instruction back to life,” said Aviation Ord- weeks. ing Operation Unified Response, an costs, difficulty to replace, on SRB can be viewed nanceman 1st Class Howard King. Bataan is still operating off the international commitment to pro- and existing manning short- at www.npc.navy.mil/ “The first day it was like a ghost coast of Haiti, with Sailors and vide relief for the victims of Haiti’s falls. referencelibrary/messages/ town amongst the ruin and rub- Marines providing oversight and devastating earthquake. Sailors in Tier 1 are eligible NAVADMIN02810. ble. Now, you really have to look serving as liaisons in a number of For more news from USS Bataan to reenlist early within the For more news from USS to find where the rubble is, where areas west of Port-au-Prince while (LHD 5), visit www.navy.mil/local/ same fiscal year as their End Wasp, visit www.navy.mil/lo- the broken buildings are. The peo- the government of Haiti and non- lhd5/. of Active Obligated Service cal/lhd1/. ZUMWALT: 5-Star rating translates into stellar service for Navy Gateway

Continued from page B1 the Installations a target to what success looks like. shoot for. It starts every- That’s where NGIS comes Cheatham Annex, Va. where from the condition of in. You can show others •Naval Station Newport, the facilities to what ameni- what it is like to succeed.” Newport, R.I. ties are offered to how you This year the Mid-Atlan- •Naval Air Station Bruns- take of your customers,” tic Region brings home wick, Brunswick, Mass. said Ed Cannon, CNIC Fleet many more Zumwalt •Portsmouth Naval Ship- Readiness Program Man- awards than last cycle. yard, Kittery, Maine ager. “This is one aspect of “Mid-Atlantic, being •Naval Base San Diego, fleet readiness, we are try- spread out across the Calif. ing to take care of Sailors, metro, has had some chal- • Navy Air Facility El family members and other lenges and we have been Centro, El Centro, Calif. military service members. working to bring them up •Naval Base Point Loma, It’s part of the overall pack- to a high level of service,” San Diego, Calif. age. You can make sure that said Aurland. “We went •Naval Air Station Lem- Sailors are relaxed when from four, Five-Star Admi- oore, Lemoore, Calif. ashore by taking care of ral Zumwalt award winners •Naval Station Rota, their accommodations, it’s two years ago to seven Rota, Spain one less thing for them to Five-Star and four Four- •Naval Station Pearl Har- worry about and helps in- Star operations. We have bor, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii crease their readiness.” had a dramatic increase in •Naval Base Kitsap Ban- By keeping the costs what we have been able to gor, Kitsap, Wash. Photos by MC1 (AW) Tim Comerford of travel lower, NGIS also accomplish through stan- •Naval Air Station Whid- Vice Adm. Michael C. Vitale speaks to assembled Commanding Officers and Navy Gateway Inns helps Temporary Addition- dardization and regional bey Island, Whidbey Island, and Suites employees during the Adm. Elmo R. Zumwalt Award ceremony held at the Westin al Duty Sailors to be able guidance.” Wash. Virginia Beach Town Center, March 11. The Secretary of the Navy established the Admiral Elmo to train or even allowing The Mid-Atlantic Re- A Five-Star rating is R. Zumwalt Award in 1974 to recognize commands that achieve the highest service standards. some commands more Sail- gion has seen some major awarded for the overall ex- or training. changes that helped as cellence of an installation’s To establish the stan- “There are some things up unannounced to cap- “We keep that travel cost well. entire NGIS operation, dards CNIC uses an that are constantly chang- ture that experience.” down as low as possible. “We upgraded our linens, including enlisted and offi- amalgam of many sources. ing, but that is because “It’s about our guests. They could send multiple our beds, our TVs. It’s all cer quarters, distinguished “We look at the Triple-A we aren’t 100 percent We are focusing on the people to that same school standardized now and our visitor quarters and flag of- standards, various different standardized,” said Robin needs of the Sailor. We for what it could cost to Standard Operating Proce- ficer quarters. industry standards as well Gaines. spend time looking at Sail- send a single person out on dure has changed as well,” “The Three-Star lev- as the other service stan- The ratings are the re- ors checking in before we the economy with a high Aurland explained. Each el means you are meeting dards. We then compile a sult of a thorough and even approach the desk to lodging cost,” Aurland ex- Installation is treated as a the minimum standards. list and get regional and in- detailed accreditation pro- do our own check in.” plained. franchise and all energy is With Four you are exceed- stallation input,” said Robin cess which is mandatory “We normally spend “Yours is not an easy leveraged against the whole. ing that and Five-Star you Gaines, NGIS Accreditation for all housing and lodging one day looking at the ad- job,” said Vice Adm. Vitale Aurland is extremely have captured the con- Team leader. “We have tai- management operations, ministrative portion of the to the NGIS employees proud of the awards that cept of stellar service for lored it by asking, ‘Does and includes unannounced building – records, training, during the award ceremo- the region has garnered, our customers,” said Nor- this make sense?’” validation visits by a Com- supply and logistics and in- ny. “It’s a 365 day operation but he sees the reason be- man Aurland, Navy Region Though the process may mander, Navy Installations structions,” Eric Gaines with a lot going on behind hind the awards as well. Mid-Atlantic Lodging Pro- seem fluid in design, it Command (CNIC) accred- continued. “Then a second the scenes from the front “This is a matter of pride. gram Director. isn’t. itation team, as well as day is spent looking at the desk to the back office to As we move forward – our specific performance stan- facilities – guest rooms, ex- maintenance and janitori- folks understand our com- dards for facilities, services terior and interior.” al to management. You are mitment to excellence. But and fiscal management. The accreditation team frequently the first people what is important is that With 485 buildings to is able to look throughout to meet our Sailors when our guests see that. It is inspect Navy-wide, the ac- the year to see what parts they report in or when not about us or our staff,” creditation team has a lot of the service or the sys- they return back from de- Aurland continued. “The of work to do. tem at a facility could use ployment.” guests don’t care who the “The teams consist of improvement. Vitale praised the ef- regional lodging program four personnel. We go in “It’s a grueling schedule. fect that NGIS has had by director is. They want a teams of two to installations The schedule lasts nine upping the bar for other as- good front desk experience unannounced, ready to months and then it winds pects of Fleet and Family and a clean comfortable take a snapshot of their op- down in preparation for the readiness. room experience and get erations,” said Eric Gaines, awards,” said Eric Gaines. “The NGIS is one of the the amenities that they Program Analyst for Navy CNIC finds that these shining examples of stan- would in a civilian hotel.” Gateway Inns and Suites. awards are very beneficial dards and compliance The NGIS Employee of Until recently the accred- for business. that we have,” Vitale said. the Year Awards for As- itation process was mostly “The award identifies to “Some of our operations sociate, Housekeeper, focused on management the customer and the em- have strong standards and Supervisor and Manager and operational needs. ployee what the goal is. It tight compliance systems, were also awarded at the “We wanted to capture sets a standard and gives others need to be shown ceremony. Vice Adm. Michael C. Vitale, commander Navy Installations more of the customer’s ex- Command, congratulates Capt. Markham K. Rich, commanding perience,” said Eric Gaines. officer Naval Air Station Oceana on Naval Air Station Oceana “It used to be an announced Dam Neck Annex Navy Gateway Inns and suites receiving a four star accreditation. inspection. Now we show

Navy Gateway Inns and Suites employees along with Capt. Bette Bolivar, commanding officer Naval Weapon Station Yorktown, proudly hold up their Five-Star Adm. Elmo R. Zumwalt award. The Mid-Atlantic region achieved seven Five-Star ratings and four Four-Star. Five-Star ratings are awarded for the overall excellence of an installation’s entire NGIS operation, including enlisted and officer quarters, distinguished visitors quarters and flag officer quarters. THE PACIFIC: Faces and voices communicate heartfelt thanks to WWII veterans

Continued from page B1 across the vast canvas of the Pa- cific Theater during World War II, from their first battle on Gua- dalcanal to their return home after V-J Day. The Pacific debuts with Part One on Sunday, March 14 (9 p.m. ET/PT), followed by other parts debuting on consec- utive Sundays at the same time through May 16. “We are honored to help pro- vide an opportunity for friends, family, neighbors and everyday citizens to thank veterans and active duty military members for their service to our coun- try,” said Zach Enterlin, Vice Photo by Alexandra Hemmerly-Brown President of Advertising and 250 veterans gathered at the World War II Memorial March 11, to be honored in conjunction with the premiere of “The Pacific,” a miniseries that documents Promotions, HBO. “Our hope is the lives of three Marines as they fight their way through the Pacific theater. that the faces and voices in these personal video messages will tional Museum of the Pacific ie (James Badge Dale), Eugene Goetzman, the producing team dynamic touch-screen monitor, us- demonstrate the true, heartfelt War: Fredericksburg, Texas; Na- Sledge (Joe Mazzello) and John behind the Emmy® Award-win- ers can easily record and send a gratitude our nation owes to the tional Naval Aviation Museum: Basilone (Jon Seda) – across the ning and Golden Globe-winning 30-second video message. With a men and women of our armed Pensacola, Fla.; Patriots Point vast canvas of the Pacific Theater 2001 HBO miniseries Band of simple click on the received video, forces.” Naval & Maritime Museum: during World War II. The mini- Brothers. Hanks and Goetzman viewers connect back to the user’s The following Museums are Mt. Pleasant, S.C.; The Nation- series follows these men and also executive produced the Web site. Through social media supporting the HBO Pacific al WWII Museum: New Orleans; their fellow Marines from their HBO miniseries John Adams, links, MeTV can put a user’s icon Tribute Campaign: American United States Navy Memori- first battle with the Japanese on which won a record-breaking 13 on thousands of Twitter feeds and Airlines C.R. Smith Museum: al Foundation: Washington DC; Guadalcanal, through the rain Emmys® in 2008. The Pacific Facebook pages. MeTV® has cre- Fort Worth, Texas; Battleship USS Alabama Battleship Me- forests of Cape Gloucester and debuted with Part One on Sun- ated video-message programs for Cove: Fall River, Mass.; Bat- morial Park: Mobile, Ala.; USS the strongholds of Peleliu, across day, March 14 (9 p.m. ET/PT), Pepsi, Kodak, Intel, Harley-David- tleship Missouri Memorial: Lexington Museum On The Bay: the bloody sands of Iwo Jima and followed by other parts debuting son, McDonalds and placed kiosks Honolulu: Battleship New Jersey Corpus Christi, Texas; USS Mid- through the horror of Okinawa, on consecutive Sundays at the at cultural venues including the Museum and Memorial: Cam- way Museum: San Diego. The and finally to their triumphant same time through May 16. Art Institute of Chicago, Toronto den, N.J.; Battleship Wisconsin program is also being supported but uneasy return home after V- International Film Festival and at Nauticus: Norfolk; Carnegie by the Historic Naval Ships As- J Day. MeTV® is the first ever location- New York City Fashion Week. Science Center - USS Requin sociation. The HBO Miniseries pre- based two-way broadcast platform MeTV’s Virtual Concierge lets Submarine: Pittsburgh; Charles- About The Pacific sentation of a Playtone and and branding network that broad- hotel guests browse information town Navy Yard Visitors Center: The Pacific tracks the inter- DreamWorks production is ex- casts LIVE from any event to any on local attractions, check flight Boston; National Museum of the twined real-life journeys of three ecutive produced by Tom Hanks, location in the connected world. status, and send video messages Marine Corps: Quantico, Va; Na- U.S. Marines – Robert Leck- Steven Spielberg and Gary With just a few touches to the home. NMCRS: Help out and have a blast at the 24/7 CENTER: Watch standers have choices now Continued from page B1 shift Sailors and watch standers must Admirals vs. Penguins game, March 26 go through a Child Placement Program pervise the children in a larger social during which available spaces are filled Continued from page B1 lems the society excels at Emergencies environment and maintaining the feel- with the children who qualify for the 24- solving. The NMCRS will not as- ing of home. hour center. see some hockey action vis- NMCRS has just cele- sist with every need, but The house is fully equipped to receive it www.norfolkadmirals. brated the second year they are more than will- children, including a common room full com and the Scope box of- of its quick assist loan. A ing to assist to help a of books and toys, a backyard for play, fice with a valid military simple loan without the service member get by bedrooms and custom smaller furniture I.D. predatory loan rates, the with any need that is truly in the kitchen for younger children. The With its 106 year history quick assist loan has been pressing. center can hold 20 children per shift and the NMCRS is about Sail- a big hit. Allowing service “More than 90 percent of has three shifts a day for 60 children to- ors and Marines helping members to borrow up to people who come into our tal. out their fellows. $300 interest free and giv- offices are assisted,” Nel- The three bedrooms are custom dec- “The NMCRS started out ing them 10 months to son said. “Our denial rate orated for the children; the boy’s room to provide for the needs of pay the money back, the is very small. The biggest has a sports theme, the girl’s room is vi- widows and orphans,” Nelson NMCRS has made it a goal help we can give service brant and colorful. The infant room is said. “There were no survi- to get these service mem- members is information lined with cribs and a changing table. vor benefit plans back then bers in and out in under 15 about your finances.” All of these custom features are made or medical to accommodate minutes. In order to expedite you to accommodate children like the Child those families – the soci- The NMCRS is able to appointment service mem- Development Center Pre School kids, a ety bought beds in hospitals help service members and bers should bring: group of 4 and 5-year-old children in at- and then founded the visiting their families with a variety A leave and earnings tendance who sang “The Wheels on the nurse program in order to of needs. statement (LES) Bus” and “I Love Rock and Roll.” have nurses go out and vis- The Navy-Marine Corps Specific Bills (If asking “Taking care of our Navy’s families it with family members that Relief Society can provide for financial assistance for a is at the forefront of what we do,” said would not otherwise be cared interest-free loans or grants utility bill, bring that bill) Greg Young, program manager for Navy for.” to help with emergency Any other bills that may Child and Youth Programs. Photo BY MC3 Lauren Randall The society wants to be needs such as: be affecting their budget. This child-care center is one of three Paige Williams, 2, plays in the playroom there in time of true need •Emergency Transpor- The longest a service in the area; the other two are located in kitchen. She has been at the center the for Sailors and Marines. tation member will have to wait Norfolk and Little Creek. A similar cen- longest of all the children and therefore a Helping get a ticket home •Funeral Expenses for an appointment is two ter is currently under construction in distinguished guest at the grand opening when a service member’s •Medical or dental Bills days. San Diego. of the Child and Youth 24/7 Center at Naval immediate family mem- (patient’s share) The NMCRS fund drive To enroll children in the program, Station Norfolk, March 12. ber has died. Helping pay •Food, Rent, and Utili- starts March 1 and runs un- funeral costs for a family ties til April 16. member. Helping get a car •Disaster Relief Assis- For more information on fixed when there is no oth- tance the NMCRS and the services er transportation for the •Child Care Expenses it provides call 322-3134 or service member. Helping •Essential Vehicle Re- visit the Navy-Marine Corps pay a utility that will be shut pairs Relief Society Web site at off. These are the prob- •Unforeseen Family www.nmcrs.org.