THE SKYLINE 2 0

Volume 56, Number 1 https://www.cnic.navy.mil/meridian ~ www.facebook.com/NASMeridian ~ Twitter: @nasmeridianms January1 4, 2018

Top 10 stories 2. T-45C operational pause 7 “This will remain our top safety priority until 1. we fully understand all causal Mishap claims two lives factors and have eliminated PEs as a risk Lt. Patrick L. Ruth, 31, and Lt. j.g. Wallace E. Burch, 25, to our flight operations. The NAE [Naval died when their aircraft went down in the Cherokee Aviation Enterprise] has been directed to National Forest in Eastern Tennessee. Both pilots were expedite solutions for PEs and to prioritize assigned to the “Eagles” of Training Squadron SEVEN those efforts.” (VT-7) based at NAS Meridian. Ruth had been in the Navy for nine years and was a member of VT-7 since Vice Adm. Mike Shoemaker, 2015. Burch had been in the Navy for nearly three Commander, Naval Air Forces years and was a member of VT-7 since 2016. 2017

3. Vice President, 6. Navy releases Fitzgerald, McCain collision reports family visits USS FITZGERALD: The collision between Fitzgerald and Crystal Vice President Mike was avoidable and resulted from an accumulation of smaller er- Pence and his family rors over time, ultimately resulting in a lack of adherence to sound mingled with military navigational practices. Specifically, Fitzgerald’s watch teams dis- members and regarded established norms of basic contact management and, civilians posing for more importantly, leadership failed to adhere to well-established photos and wishing protocols put in place to prevent collisions. everyone a Happy USS JOHN S. MCCAIN: The collision between the McCain and Thanksgiving. The family Alnic MC was also avoidable and resulted primarily from also served complacency, over-confidence and lack of procedural Thanksgiving lunch to compliance. A major contributing factor to the hundreds of military collision was sub-standard level of knowledge members at the Lance regarding the operation of the ship control Cpl. Roy M. Wheat console. fashion to ensure the safe and Galley, Nov. 23. effective operation of the ship.

4 Welcome . Solar Facility new CO, 7. Groudbreaking Commodore 8. Navy tests well water The Navy, Tennessee Val- ley Authority, East Elec- tric Power Association, and Silicon Ranch Corporation broke ground The Navy began testing on 6-MW solar generation facility of off base private that will upgrade electrical infra- drinking water wells structure and microgrid controls surrounding NAS to provide enough solar power to Meridian and Joe sustain base needs during utility Williams Outlying outages, thus increasing Field in 2017. The energy resiliency and security Navy has developed on board NAS Meridian. NAS: Capt. Brian S. a protective policy Horstman to address past releases of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, 9. Big change for PRT commonly known Sailors who pass the body composition assess- as PFAS which ment (BCA), are within the Navy age-graduated are man made body fat standards, and score an overall “excellent chemicals low” or better on the PRT, with no single event persistent in the lower than a “good low,” will be environment. exempt from participation in the next test. These changes will be effective Jan. 1, but be based TW-1: Capt. on a Sailor’s performance during Nicholas Mungas the second PRT cycle of 2017.

Hurricane MCPON visits NTTC 5. 10. Relief

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Steven Giordano speaks to Sailors at an all hands call in front of the Naval Technical Training Center, May 5. 2 The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 Photo of Week A Day in Naval History

~ Jan. 4, 1910 ~ Photo by MC3 Victoria Foley Lt. Larry Young, dressed as Santa Claus, signals to launch an F/A-18 E Super USS Michigan, the first U.S. dreadnought battleship, is commissioned. Hornet on the flight deck of the USS Theodore Roosevelt in the Persian Gulf, Dec. 21. ~ Jan. 1, 1962 ~

Navy SEAL teams are established with Teams One Area Happenings and Two formed with personnel from Underwater Demolition Teams. Lt. Cmdr. January Roy Boehm (right) briefs 11: Madagascar A Musical Adventure, Jr. at 6:30 p.m. at SEALs as they prepare for Meridian Little Theatre. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman a mission in April-May 1962, the Giraffe, Gloria the hip-hop Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, prior to the Cuban Missile Crisis. plotting penguins as they bound onto the stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Call 601-482-6371. 16: Gladys Knight in concert at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. The Empress of Soul and winner of seven Grammy Awards, possesses one of the richest voices in pop music. Tickets are $80 and $74. Call 601-696-2200. 20-21: Mid South Little Britches Rodeo at 9 a.m. (both days) at Navy News Briefs the Lauderdale County Agri-Center. Rodeo brings junior cowboys & cowgirls to compete for spots in the national finals. Tickets are $5 at the gate; additional fees for competitors. Call 601-482-8498. Navy extends E-3 high year tenure February As part of ongoing reviews of policies will go into effect Feb. 1, 2018, increas- 9: “Sense & Sensibility” at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. that impact Fleet readiness, the Navy ing E-3 HYT to six years from the cur- announced it is increasing its high year rent five years of service. Aquila Theatre brings its inventive touch to a groundbreaking tenure (HYT) policy for active component In 2018, 1,280 E-3 Sailors will reach romantic comedy, Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility. Tickets are $39 and Full Time Support (FTS) E-3 Sailors HYT under the current policy, and will & $33. Call 601-696-2200. by one year in NAVADMIN 290/17. now have an opportunity to continue This change will retain experienced naval service. Increasing HYT also pro- 10: Bud & BBQ from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Singing Brakeman Park. The Sailors needed for both shore and sea vides these E-3 Sailors two more oppor- 2nd Annual KCBS-santioned Bud & BBQ competition in conjunction duty as the Navy increases manpower to tunities to advance. with Meridian Mardi Gras. For information, email meet mission requirements and opera- HYT for all other active duty, FTS tional tasking. and Selected Reserve enlisted Sailors [email protected]. The updated policy sets the maximum paygrades remain unchanged. 10: Meridian Mardi Gras from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. at City Hall. There’s length of service (LOS) by paygrade, and --From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs something for everyone! Whether it’s the Krewe of Barkus Pet Parade, Krewe of Midas Parade, Kid’s Activities, King Cakes, Mardi Gras Store, great food and entertainment, come enjoy a taste of New Navy announces alignment of EAOS Orleans right here to the Queen City. Call 601-485-1944. 10: EMBDC Bridal Show from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the MSU Riley with duty station tour length Center. If you love ‘Say Yes to the Dress’ then this is the show for The Navy announced a policy and pro- order to extend their enlistment contract you. Please join us as we welcome Monte Durham to Meridian. Live cess change, directing commands to im- to match their prescribed tour. During mediately take action to align Sailors’ End this time, Sailors requiring a High Year demos for what’s trending in the world of weddings. of Active Obligated Service (EAOS) with Tenure (HYT) waiver to comply with this Call 601-693-1306. their duty station tour length in NAVAD- policy are approved to extend to meet the at 6:30 p.m. at the Meridian Little Theatre. Come MIN 307/17, Dec. 22. full prescribed tour length without the 13: Hearts 4 Art Effective immediately, the new policy need of a HYT waiver request. experience a night of live music, poetry, art, and dance for a good changes and processes are: Commanding Also, effective immediately, Permanent cause. Proceeds go towards the Meridian Freedom Project. Tickets officer’s (CO) extension authority, Obli- Change of Station (PCS) orders will now are $15 in advance; $20 day of the event. Call 601-482-6371. gated service (OBLISERV) policy, Career require obligated service (OBLISERV) to Waypoints (C-WAY) policy, and Enlist- complete their full prescribed tour. Sailors ment extension policy. will now meet the OBLISERV require- “Alignment Open Season” is the time ments through enlistment extension, period from the release of NAVADMIN reenlistment, or, in some cases, by filing 307/17 until May 31, 2018. With Com- an Administrative Remarks (NAVPERS NAS Meridian NMCRS manding Officer’s approval, this open 1070/613) prior to executing orders. Office is open on Tuesdays from season allows Sailors to bypass C-WAY in --From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs 8 a.m.-noon & Thursdays from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 601-679-2504. Navy launches 2018 Full Speed Ahead 2.0 Training Administration Building 255, Suite 283 The chief of naval personnel an- To maximize the advantage of the nounced via NAVADMIN 299/17 Dec. 19, small group experience, CFs will conduct the next iteration of Full Speed Ahead the training with no more than 30 per- (FSA) training for 2018 that expands on sonnel, including members of mixed pay- existing efforts to prevent destructive be- grades to encourage open, frank dialogue haviors across the fleet. up and down the chain of command. Full Speed Ahead 2.0 (FSA 2.0) “Got Because FSA 2.0 encourages Sailors Your 6” training continues the conversa- to take responsibility for their contribu- tion on key themes from the 2017 FSA tions to Navy culture and to re-commit to training and further reinforces expecta- themselves and each other, the course is tions for appropriate social media con- designed to be conducted in organic units, duct. such as work centers, divisions, watch FSA 2.0 blends scenario-based videos teams or departments, as determined by with small group face-to-face, respectful the commanding officer. and collaborative, discussions led by a FSA 2.0 is required for all active-duty single certified command facilitator (CF). and Reserve Navy personnel and must be The training will challenge each Sailor to completed no later than Sept. 30, 2018. honestly assess personal, interpersonal Civilians or other service personnel as- and social media character and conduct signed at Navy commands are encouraged and to identify specific opportunities for to attend in accordance with their mission personal individual and organizational requirements and command direction. growth and betterment. --From Naval Education and Training Command

This DoD newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Hotlines & Helpful Numbers Contents of The Skyline are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Naval Air Station Meridian, Miss. SAPR Victim Assistance: 601-604-3037 The Skyline ~ government, the Department of Defense, or NAS Meridian, Mississippi. The Skyline is pub- SAPR Civilian Victim Assistance: 601-486-3122 lished every other Thursday by The Meridian Star, a private firm in no way connected with the SARC: 601-481-4274 U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with the commanding officer of Naval Air Station, Command Staff Editorial Staff SAFE Helpline: 877-995-5247 Meridian, Mississippi. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the NAS Commanding Officer ~ Public Affairs Officer ~ Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255 Meridian Public Affairs Office. The Skyline solicits news contributions from military and civilian Military OneSource: 800-342-9647 sources. It reserves the right to edit material selected for publication. The deadline for material Capt. Brian S. Horstman Penny Randall is 4:30 p.m. the Thursday before publication. Send submissions to: The Skyline, 255 Rosen- CEAP (DoN Civilian): 844-366-2327 baum Ave., Suite 163, Public Affairs Office, Naval Air Station, Meridian, MS 39309-5003 or Executive Officer ~ Public Affairs Specialist~ EAP (NAF Civilian): 800-932-0034 e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]. For more information, call (601) 679- FFSC Meridian: 601-679-2360 2318 or (601) 679-2809. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or Cmdr. Matthew McGuire Adam Prince Chaplain: 601-604-2015 supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Acting Command Senior Chief ~ Staff Writer/Photographer ~ NMCRS Duty Cell: 601-604-2206 The Meridian Star of products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this EEO (NAF): 866-295-0328 publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without re- ABHCS Frank Chandler MC2 Chris Liaghat gard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handi- EEO (GS): 904-542-2802 cap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user orpatron. The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 3 Twelve aviators earn ‘Wings of Gold’ in December pinning ceremony

There was a naval aviator designation ceremony Dec. 21 in the Chapel on board NAS Meridian. Twelve aviators received their “Wings of Gold” during the ceremony. The naval aviator designation ceremony is not prescribed specifically by U.S. Navy regula- tions, but has emerged as an honored product of the rich heritage of naval tradi- tion. It marks the culmination of nearly two years of specialized training, which has prepared these officers for the rigorous demands of aerial combat and carrier operations -- earning each the title of “Naval Aviator” and the right to wear the coveted “Wings of Gold.” = Winging, page 8 Adams Benner Couture Golden Stick

Fineis Gamelgaard Griffin

Photo by MC2 Chris Liaghat Mississippi Council of the Navy League member Arjen Lagendijk, left, presents the Golden Stick award to Lt. Christopher O’Donnell during a winging ceremony at the chapel on board Naval Air Station Meridian, Dec. 21

His and Hers Wings Kyman Lopes Lutthans

O’Donnell Rapp Schwartz

Photo by MC2 Chris Liaghat Lt. j.g. Ashley Gamelgaard pins gold wings on her husband, Lt. j.g. Ross Gamelgaard, during a winging ceremony at the chapel on board Naval Air Station Meridian, Dec. 21. Ashley Gamelgaard was pinned as a naval flight officer (NFO) in 2016 at Naval Air Station Command Quarters Pensacola.

Stennis Center Excellence

Photo by MC2 Chris Liaghat NAS Meridian Sailors received awards during the monthly command quarters at the Air Operations building on board NAS Meridian, Dec. 21. Photo by Tom Childress During the ceremony, two frocking letters, two Navy and Marine Corps Mark McDonald, a representative of the Mississippi Council of the Navy Achievement Medals, three flag letters of commendation and one Military League, presented Logistics Specialist Seaman Jessica Dizon with the Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal were presented. Stennis Center of Excellence Award Winner, Dec. 12. NTTC Toy Drive Visit from Santa Claus

Photo by MC2 Chris Liaghat Photo by MC2 Chris Liaghat Children meet Santa Claus during the Navy Branch Health Clinic holiday Sailors and staff from Naval Technical Training Center Meridian conducted party on board Naval Air Station Meridian. The children took turns telling their annual Toy Drive for local underprivileged children. About 1,500 toys Santa what they wanted for Christmas and were each given a wrapped were donated to those in need this holiday season. present. 4 The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 Navy updates PFA separation policy

The Navy announced revisions to the receiving the recommendation of the Com- Physical Readiness Program separation manding Officer. policy, directing commands to discontinue Enlisted Sailors who currently have an processing Sailors for separation as a re- approved separation or Fleet reserve dates sult of Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) as a result of the previous PFA separation failures and providing guidance on how to policy may have a decision to make on handle Sailors with approved separations whether or not they want to remain on ac- in NAVADMIN 304/17, Dec. 21. tive duty. The NAVADMIN annotates direc- The goal of the Navy’s physical readi- tion for these Sailors to take if they desire ness program is to maintain a minimum to stay Navy. prescribed level of fitness necessary for Officers who fail one PFA will not be world-wide deployment and to maintain a promoted. Commands are required to delay Sailor’s long-term health and wellness. promotion and inform PERS-834, Officer “My number one priority is to keep the Performance and Separations. A Letter of Fleet properly manned,” said Vice Adm. Notification will be issued to inform them Robert Burke, Chief of Naval Personnel. of the PFA failure and their enrollment in “Retention of every capable Sailor is criti- FEP. Members may regain eligibility by cal to the operational readiness of the Navy passing the next command monthly FEP while ensuring every Sailor has the oppor- mock PFA. tunity to safely achieve and maintain fit- Officers who fail two or more consecu- ness and body composition standards.” tive PFAs will be recommended for admin- istrative separation processing. If the Sec- Effective immediately: retary of the Navy (SECNAV) determines * All commands will discontinue processing the officer is to be separated or retired, this members for separation as a result of PFA action will occur at the officer’s PRD or failures. upon SECNAV’s determination, whichever * Separation orders resulting from PFA is later, regardless of PFA cycle outcomes. failures prior to Soft End of Active Obligat- If an official PFA is passed prior to SEC- ed Service (SEAOS) with approved dates NAV’s decision on retention or separation, after March 31, 2018 are cancelled. administrative separation processing will * Officers with approved separation orders cease and the member will be retained for PFA failure with a directed separation upon notification to PERS-834, Officer Per- date prior to March 1, 2018 can request formance and Separations. A special Fit- their separation orders be cancelled in or- ness Report may be submitted to document der to remain in the Navy by contacting the Officer’s satisfactory physical readiness PERS-833, Post Selection Board Matters status. Two or more consecutive PFA fail- subject to Secretary of Navy (SECNAV) ap- ures will result in an adverse report that proval. states significant problem on their fitness * MILPERSMAN 1910-170, Separation by report. Reason of PFA Failure, is cancelled. Effective Jan. 1, 2018, all PFA failures For enlisted Sailors who fail one PFA, will be reset to zero. Also, a Body Compo- the failure will be entered into Navy Stan- sition Assessment (BCA) will be conducted dard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) within five working days of reporting to a to inform them of the failure and enroll new command. This BCA spot-check will them in the Fitness Enhancement Program not count as the official BCA for newly (FEP) until passing the next official PFA. reported members during the command Also, Sailors cannot be frocked or advanced PFA cycle, regardless of the status of the but may regain eligibility by meeting PFA official command PFA cycle. Upon either standards with a monthly mock PFA. a BCA spot-check failure or PFA failure, If an enlisted Sailor fails two or more Sailors must be enrolled and participate consecutive PFAs, they will continue ser- in FEP until they pass an official PFA. All vice until their SEAOS. These Sailors will members who have regained promotion/ad- be ineligible for advancement, reenlistment vancement eligibility are reminded of their or extension, receive an adverse report that ability to communicate in writing to pro- states significant problems on evaluations motion and selection boards as outlined in and detailed as required. A Sailor can re- MILPERSMAN 1420-010, Communication gain eligibility for advancement and re- with Officer Promotion Selection Boards. enlistment by passing an official PFA and --From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

The real truth about New Year’s Eve

During my son, balloons are released, glitter infuses MCRAE REALTY COMPANY youth, my best COLUMN the air, and everyone embraces in joyous offer on many celebration of the beginning of another New Year’s exciting new year… ROLLING HILLS SUBDIVISION Eves was baby- That’s the impossible dream. But here’s sitting. the reality of many New Year’s Eves: APARTMENTS FOR RENT: My night December 31st rolls around, and included you prepare for a get-together between sampling the friends who had nothing better to do. family’s leftover Thanks to holiday spiral hams, cheese 2 Bd/1 bath with W/D hookups holiday treats balls, cups of egg nog, breakfast casse- and counting roles and countless cookies, you abandon Location in Marion Ms. down with Dick the form-fitting outfit you had planned. Clark after the You opt, instead, for a roomy sweater and Off Hwy 45 N/Confederate Drive kids went to pants with a forgiving waistband. bed. Despite You gather with friends, and after chit Reasonably priced. my pathetic chat and cocktails, more holiday food circumstances, Lisa Smith Molinari appears. Despite swearing off overeating I held out hope several days ago, you can’t resist filling Call McRae Realty @ 601 693-2067 for info or that, as soon your plate with meatballs, spinach dip as my social standing improved, I’d have and pecan tarts. many fabulous, sparkling, whirlwind The host’s music list includes a seda- Visit www.mcraerentalproperties.com New Year’s Eve parties in my future. tive mix of classic rock. Although you all Little did I know then, nibbling stale break out singing “Don’t stop believing!” cookies and watching the ball drop on TV when Journey comes on, and a friend THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE is about as good as it gets. does a sad pelvic gyration to “Roxanne,”

It took many years of dashed hopes for dancing never really takes off. With a full 40453-1 me to wise up, so let me spare those of belly, a toe tap is all you can muster. you still blinded by visions of grandeur Time passes, and someone muffles a any further disappointment: New Year’s yawn. You sneak a peak at your watch Eve is not all it’s cracked up to be. and are aghast. When you’re young, you believe that “What time is it?” a friend asks. New Year’s Eve is an exciting night of “Quarter past eight,” you reply, and unknown possibilities. Will you attend a everyone glances nervously at each other. party? Pack into a nightclub? Hang with Four more hours to go. a wild group of friends? If single, you You down another stiff drink while a wonder who might show up. A crush? An friend relays excruciating details about ex? Or possibly a new prospect? Could her cat’s prolonged struggle with feline old passions be rekindled? Would new distemper. You pretend to check in with romance be sparked? the kids on your phone when you’re re- You shop in advance for something ally scrolling through Facebook. You hit with a little sparkle, something that the buffet again, just because it’s there. might show some skin, something that Mercifully, a guest offers to shoot off you’d look good in if dancing breaks out. some fireworks, and you are grateful You want your hair to shine, your pulse for the half hour spent shivering in the points to smell perfumed, and your lips to driveway while watching him light fire to look smooch-able. bottle rockets and roman candles. You envision yourself mingling with Back inside, making it to midnight fun, attractive people. The conversation becomes a matter of survival. By the time flows with the bubbly. You throw your the host turns the television on, it’s all head back and laugh like they do in wine you can do to chant, “… five, four, three, commercials. Your hair swishes and your two, one — Happy New Year!” before bracelets jingle. heading for the door. The night is filled the kind of music So before the ball drops this Decem- that compels you to spring to your feet. ber 31st, drop your expectations. With a You swing your hair in loop-de-loops just pre-party nap, an elastic waistband, and for laughs. Droplets of sweat glisten on plenty of antacids, you might actually your neck as you and your friends jump enjoy yourself. in unison to the beat. A 21-year Navy spouse, Lisa Smith Molinari’s selfsyn- Midnight comes unexpectedly, and ev- dicated columns appear on her blog, www.themeatand- eryone scrambles to turn down the music, potatoesoflife.com and she recently co-authored Stories fill glasses for toasting, and moisten lips Around the Table: Laughter, Wisdom, and Strength in for kissing. After counting down in uni- Military Life Follow Lisa@MolinariWrites. The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 5

Gunnery Sgt. Carlos Hathcock Famous Marine Hometown: Little Rock, Ark. OOORAH! Hathcock dreamed of being a U.S. Ma- “Carlos became part of the environ- rine his whole life and enlisted in 1959 ment,” said Edward Land, Hathcock’s at just 17 years old. Hathcock was an commanding officer. “He totally inte- excellent sharpshooter by then, winning grated himself into the environment. He the Wimbledon Cup shooting champion- had the patience, drive, and courage to ship in 1965, the year before he would do the job. He felt very strongly that he deploy to Vietnam and change the face of was saving Marine lives.” American warfare forever. With 93 confirmed kills – his longest He deployed in 1966 as a military was at 2500 yards – and an estimated policeman, but immediately volunteered 300 more, for Hathcock, it really wasn’t for combat and was soon transferred to about the killing. Saving American the Sniper Platoon, lives is something Hathcock took to stationed at Hill 55, South of . heart. This is where Hathcock would earn the After his sniping career, he estab- nickname “” -- because he lished the Marine Sniper School at always wore a white feather on his bush Quantico, teaching Marines how to hat, daring the North Vietnamese to spot “get into the bubble,” a state of com- him -- and where he would achieve his plete concentration. Hathcock died on status as the ’s deadliest February 22, 1999, in Virginia Beach, sniper in missions that sound like they Virginia, from complications resulting were pulled from the pages of Marvel from multiple sclerosis. comics. --By Blake Stillwell Sioux Falls Marine awarded

By Sgt. Michelle Reif Dawn II in the Helmand province of Af- 9th Marine Corps District ghanistan. McGaffee sustained considerable in- When Marines graduate recruit juries in the blast. training, not only are they gaining the Due to an administrative oversight, title of Marine, they are also gaining a however, McGaffee was never awarded family. The bonds of the Marines to their the Purple Heart Medal. But, when the left and right often run thicker than award finally came through, it was set to blood. be mailed to McGaffee directly. Gunnery Marines would give their lives for Sgt. Paul Odonnell, the staff non-com- each other and when one of their own missioned officer in charge of RSS Sioux needs help, they never hesitate to step Falls, heard her story and refused to let up. This link lasts a lifetime, even when her receive such a prestigious award in their active duty time is finished. If there the mail despite the fact that McGaffee are two phrases that every Marine takes was no longer on active duty. to heart, it’s “once a Marine, always a McGaffee was awarded her Purple Marine” and “never leave a Marine be- Heart Medal, Dec. 16, during a tradi- hind.” tional Marine Corps ceremony in front of Because of these two deeply under- Marines and her local friends and family. stood Marine Corps sentiments, the The Purple Heart Medal is awarded Recruiting Sub Station Sioux Falls Ma- to members of the military of the U.S. rines did not think twice about helping who are wounded by an instrument of a Marine receive what she rightfully de- war in the hands of the enemy. served. “Having Sgt. McGaffee’s friends and Sergeant Sara McGaffee joined the family here today just goes to show how Photo by Sgt. Michelle Reif Marine Corps in 2008 out of Sioux Falls, incredible the state of South Dakota is,” Sergeant Sara McGaffee, a Sioux Falls, S.D., native, poses for a photo with Marines of S.D. On Oct. 20, 2010, while deployed said Odonnell. “We had an opportunity Recruiting Sub Station Sioux Falls after being presented her with the Purple Heart Medal, Dec. with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, Mc- to do this ceremony the right way and I 16. On Oct. 20, 2010, while deployed with Combat Logistics Battalion 3, McGaffee’s vehicle Gaffee’s vehicle was hit by an improvised think we captured what it really means was hit by an improvised explosive device while conducting convoy operations in support of explosive device while conducting convoy to always be a Marine. We support our Operation Steel Dawn II in the Helmand province of Afghanistan. operations in support of Operation Steel family.”

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo.

Photo by Cpl. Jason Estevez Photo by Gunnery Sgt. Evan Ahlinr A U.S. Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion assigned to Marine Heavy The Honorable Mr. Santa Claus, Commanding Officer of Holiday Cheer, Helicopter Squadron 461 flies over the Rockie Mountains during a cold weather NORTHPOLECOM, conducts basic swim qualification at Camp Pendleton, Calif., training exercise on Buckley Air Force Base, Colo., Dec. 13. HMH-461 conducted Dec. 19. Basic water survival is a training requirement for Claus and all operational cold weather training to increase the squadron’s proficiency and overall combat reindeer to pass every two years to maintain their water survival skills. readiness Safety & Energy Efficiency is Our Duty 6 The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 NAS Meridian, MS • Morale, Welfare and Recreation On the Web: www.navymwrmeridian.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MWRMeridian

Facility Phone Numbers

Fitness Center 679-2379 Library 679-2326 SAC 679-5252 Liberty Center 679-3760 Rudder’s 679-2636 SLO 679-2473 Tickets 679-3773 Sandtrap Grill 679-2780 P.C. Golf Course 679-2526 McCain Rec Center 679-2651 Tutto Bene 679-2345 MWR Admin. 679-2551 Equipment Rental 679-2609 CDC/CDH 679-2652 MWR Jobs Line 679-2467

Coming MWR Shuttle Service Coming Attractions now available Attractions McCain Rec McCain Rec Center Center Thursday, January 4 Friday, January 12 5 p.m., The Lego Ninjago Movie, PG 5 p.m., E.T., PG 7 p.m., American Assassin, R 7 p.m., Mother!, R Friday, January 5 Saturday, January 13 5 p.m., Rudy, PG 1 p.m., Field of Dreams, PG 7 p.m., Kingsman: The Golden Circle, R 5 p.m., Happy Gilmore, PG13 7 p.m., Mother!, R Saturday, January 6 1 p.m., The Lion King, G Sunday, January 14 5 p.m., Dunkirk, PG13 1 p.m., The Natural, PG 7 p.m., Kingsman: The Golden Circle, R 5 p.m., It, R 7 p.m., Happy Gilmore, PG13 Sunday, January 7 1 p.m., The Lego Ninjago Movie, PG Monday, January 15 5 p.m., American Assassin, R 5 p.m., Annie, PG 7 p.m., Dunkirk, PG13 Last week saw the start of the MWR Shuttle Service. The shuttle, 7 p.m., Stronger, R Monday, January 8 which follows a set route around the base, is intended to make Tuesday, January 16 5 p.m., The Natural, PG travel between facilities easier and more frequent. Stops include 5 p.m., Beauty and the Beast (2017), PG 7 p.m., It, R the Fitness Center, Housing, Liberty Center, McCain Recreation 7 p.m., Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, R Tuesday, January 9 Center, Navy Gateway Inns & Suites and the Ponta Creek Wednesday, January 17 5 p.m., E.T., PG 5 p.m., Big Hero 6, PG 7 p.m., Mother!, R Community Recreation Complex (which includes Rudders Pub 7 p.m., Home Again, PG13 Wednesday, January 10 & Grill). Thursday, January 18 5 p.m., Field of Dreams, PG 5 p.m., Annie, PG 7 p.m., Happy Gilmore, R Shuttles run every fifteen minutes from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. 7 p.m., Stronger, R Thursday, January 11 Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to midnight on Friday, 10 5 p.m., The Natural, PG 7 p.m., It, R a.m. to midnight on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday.

MWRMeridian @MWRMeridian MWRMeridian www.NavyMWRMeridian.com The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 7

Navy announces uniform policy and initiative updates

The Navy announced several updates to Navy uniform February 2018. aThe submarine sweater, worn by U.S. submarine Sailors policy and several uniform initiatives in NAVADMIN a Authorized wear of the Navy Career Counselor identi- since World War I, is an olive drab or brown, five-button, 310/17, Dec. 22. fication badge is extended to qualified Full Time Support v-neck sweater made of 100 percent wool or 100 percent Policy updates include Engineering Duty Officer (EDO) instructors of the two-week Reserve Career Information acrylic fabric. An improved design submarine sweater is qualification insignia, North American Aerospace Defense Course. being developed, but until it is available, submarine Sail- Command (NORAD) identification badge, Navy Working a The black V-neck pullover sweater is designated as a ors issued the original sweater as organizational clothing Uniform Type II and III (NWU Type II/III) embroidered unisex component authorized for wear by male and female may continue to wear it under guidelines outlined in the shoulder patches, Navy Career Counselor identification Sailors. Manner and occasion for wear remains the same. NAVADMIN. The sweater is authorized for wear by per- badge, black v-neck pullover sweater, and revised occasion The policy governing the occasion for wear of NWUs is sonnel currently serving at Submarine Force commands for wear of the NWU. revised as follows: wear of NWUs is authorized for com- or personnel serving at non-Submarine Force commands muting and all normal tasks and associated short stops who are qualified in submarines. The following policy updates are effective immediately: (i.e. child care, gas station, off-base shopping, banking and a The Navy Physical Fitness Uniform (PTU) is being en- aEDOs who have completed the Engineering Duty Quali- dining) before, during and after the workday. The NWU hanced with an optional running short, and a new color fication Program, to include command responsibilities and is not a liberty uniform. After working hours, NWU wear scheme and logo for the PTU shirt. A new design concept qualification standards, are authorized to wear the EDO is not permitted while conducting official business when is under review and will be announced in a future NAV- breast insignia. Specifications, eligibility and availability business attire is appropriate and participating in social ADMIN. of the EDO qualification insignia is clarified in this NAV- events. Also, consumption of alcohol in NWUs on base is Lastly, upon Sailor feedback regarding Bates “LITE” ADMIN. authorized except where regional commanders promul- dress shoe heel disintegration, Bates reformulated the aSailors assigned as staff members to NORAD are autho- gate otherwise. chemical composition of sole material to rectify this defect rized to optionally wear the NORAD identification badge and the Navy Exchange Command purged inventory of during the duration of their assignment. The following are Navy uniform initiative updates: the affected shoes. Sailors who experience heel or sole fail- aEmbroidered Navy-certified subdued matching NWU a The 2017 Navy Boot Study is complete. Findings and ure (blowouts) of their dress shoes, or any other mechani- Type II and NWU Type III pattern “Don’t Tread On Me” recommendations from over 300 Sailors were reported to cal defect that occurs within 36 months of purchase from and reverse U.S. flag patches are authorized for optional Navy leadership to support development of a short- and the Navy Exchange Uniform Centers, should return the non-tactical wear in garrison at unit commander discre- long-term solution for an improved general purpose safety shoes to the navy Exchange and address the issue with a tion. Patches are available for purchase at Navy Exchange boot. Future NAVADMINs will announce the progress and uniform center associate. Uniform Centers and Uniform Call Centers beginning availability of the two safety boot enhancement projects. -- from Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

Sale... Or BOATS/CAMPERS/TRAILERS miles. Sale includes trailer home located five minutes HVAC; asking $105,000. Call For Sale: Gated property nished. $1000 per month. ready cover and two sets of from NAS Meridian. Rent 601-678-5203. on 16 acres; with small resi- Call 205-454-8649 keys. Asking $8K (negotia- $500/$500 deposit. Call 601- For Sale/Rent: 3BD/3BA dence. Property is in Dale- 2006 Fleetwood Discov- MISCELLANEOUS ery 39 ft. 3 slide, Cat Die- ble). Serious inquiries only. 679-8147. 2900 sq. ft. at 424 Windover ville; very close to NAS. Call sel, motor home. New tires Call 301-919-7972. For Rent: 2 BD/1BA with Circle, Meridian. Call 601- 601-679-8818. & A/C, “fully equipped,” origi- 2004 Honda TRX450R a two car garage. Available 686-0277. For Rent: 2BD/1BA home 25 cu.ft. Frigidaire side nal owners, non-smokers. four wheeler $2600, 2005 Jan. 1 2018. Rent: $676 per For Rent: 4BD/2.5 BA in Dalewood. Gated commu- by side; stainless doors w/ Serious Inquiries Only. Will Honda TRX250EX four month and Deposit $676. home in Southeast School nity with beach view of lake; black casing; asking $300. e-mail pictures, full informa- wheeler $1600, 2002 Yama- 2708 Rusell Camp Rd. Call district. 3,000 sq ft.; all elec- asking $700/month. Call Call 601-764-8164 after 4 tion or set appointment to ha TTR-125L dirt bike $800, G. Barrett at 850-855-8304. tric, central heat and air; 24’ 601-604-0495. p.m. see RV. Call 601-479-6145. and 2006 KTM 250SX-F Viewing by appointment only. x 24’ game room; and 25’ x For Rent: 5 BD/3.5 BA Homestead EZ rider util- dirt bike $2200. All in good For Rent: 3BD/2BA locat- 25’ outbuilding wired with house available for rent in ity trailer. Holds 2 Harley MOTORCYCLES/GEAR/ATV shape ready to go. Overseas ed at 7362 Old Country Club electricity. No pets allowed quiet North Hills neighbor- Davidsons. Call 601-693- 2010 Polaris Ranger move forcing sale. Make of- Place 9 miles from NAS Me- inside or outside. No smok- hood. 4400 square feet, 9292. 800XP Browning Edition, fer ready to deal! Call Ben at ridian. Living room has wood ing. $1,500 per month. Call newly remodeled kitchen Propane Grill Char-Broil camo color. Roof, wind- 843-597-4221. burning fireplace; huge back 601-692-4440 or 601-692- with granite counters, stain- with full propane tank and shield, winch, extra set of yard with open field behind; 5062. less appliances, hardwood cover; seldom used. Asking AUTOMOBILES, ETC. wheels/tires, and dual gun large master with walk-in For Rent: 3BD/2BA mo- floors, hot tub on large shel- $125. Call 601-679-9935. scabbard. Asking $7800. 2015 Kia Soul, 15,300 closet and private bathroom. bile home in the Southeast tered patio, abundant stor- Two gas weed eaters fix- Call Pete at 601-678-3458. miles, standard transmis- Rent $1,100; call 419-490- School district. 1,700 sq ft. age space, plenty of parking able but being sold as parts 2013 Harley Davidson sion, very good condition, 5054 or 606-462-3024. Large yard. 20’ x 30’ out- area, including RV parking. only $8 ea. Two boys’ 20 Switchback, Asking $8k; $11,500 FIRM. Call/Text For Sale: 2 BD/1 BA home building wired with electric- $2300 per month. Call 479- inch. BMX Bikes, fixable but only one owner; still under 520-904-4293. on Poplar Springs Drive just ity. No pets allowed inside or 774-9293. in need of repair, being sold warranty; all maintenance 2017 Camaro Gen6, 4k off Hwy 39. Washer and dry- outside. No smoking. $900 For Rent: 3BD/1.5 BA as parts only $10 ea. Basket done by Harley Davidson. miles, 50th anniversary lim- er available if needed. $975/ per month. Call 601-692- home on Hwy 45 North. Ball Hoop Yard or drive way Call 505-658-1675. ited addition; like-new condi- mo. house only; $1,175/mo. 4440 or 601-692-5062. Large bedrooms with huge - Needs new net - $20. Call 1982 Harley Davidson tion. $38,500. Call 601-686- with additional 14 acres pas- For Rent: 3 BD/2 BA closets; separate dining 601-616-9251. FLHS, 80 C.I. Shovelhead 1027. ture, barn and small pond. home in North Hills area - room, spacious kitchen and Engine w/4-Speed Transmis- 2012 Honda Civic. 47k Great for horses! Call Rick at 10 minutes from NAS, office laundry room; with covered sion. Nice Antique Bike -- miles, $9,200. Call 601-490- 601-917-6469 space/sun room, refrigerator, deck for entertaining; at- To submit an item to the just can’t ride anymore. Call 3835. For Sale: 2BD/1BA 1250 stove, microwave, dishwash- tached covered parking/ “Sale...Or” column, e-mail 601-527-9756/601-986-8378 HOMES/APARTMENTS sq. ft. home on 2.3 acres. er. No pets allowed. $1,100/ breezeway. Home sits on [email protected]. 2010 Honda Sabre very Double carport with stor- monthly with $600 deposit. 1-acre wooded lot for pri- Deadline is the Thursday direct drive, less than 10k New! For Rent: 2BD/1BA age; all electric with central Call 601-513-2577. vacy. Home can come fur- prior to publication.

Listings in the “Sale...Or” column are free for anyone who works at NAS Meridian. You can purchase an ad for a business or organization in “The Skyline,” by calling The Meridian Star at 601-693-1551 -- ask for Mandy or email: [email protected] 8 The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 Mattis impressed by service members’ high morale

By Jim Garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity

Defense Secretary James N. Mattis said he’s impressed by service members’ high morale and the steadfastness of the force in light of its involvement in more than a decade of war. The secretary spoke to Pentagon reporters Dec. 28. “We have reenlistment rates that are good. We have enlistment rates that are going well,” he said. “Consider- ing all that has gone on in this long war, we have high morale.” Mattis spoke of seeing an aide from 2004 now based in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He was an artillery lieutenant and is now a lieutenant colonel Cobra helicopter pilot. He was terribly wounded in Iraq. “He tells me his wife is with him all the way, which is always a concern -- the families and all they have put up with over these years,” he said. “I am a bit surprised by the [high] morale and steadfastness of the force.” He is also impressed by the young people joining the force. “Drill instructors … told me the average physical fitness test score for recruits … is 270 average,” he said. “We haven’t raised the standard, but we are getting in people who are more physically fit. And, by the way, the percentage of people in the top mental groups has gone up as well.” Rifle qualification scores are higher as well as other standards, he said. “The standards they are meeting is something we couldn’t have dreamed of 15 years ago,” Mattis said. “That is a bit of a surprise this long into a war.” Department of Defense photo The secretary said he is getting questions from service Secretary of Defense James Mattis speaks to reporters during press conference at the Pentagon. members about their perception of civilians’ apparent lack of “essential friendliness toward one another in America.” He said this topic came up in casual conversation with Mattis said he didn’t know “if people are more isolated ments are up, and this runs from the number of troops in service members wondering why Americans can’t pull to- today or reinforced by what they select to listen to on TV Army brigades to increased production of specific muni- gether like Americans in the military do. “An Army Spe- rather than [being] challenged.” tions. cial Forces major told me it’s really different outside the He added, “I don’t know, but in the military it was He said the continuing resolution has not expanded the military,” Mattis said. welcome to be back around people casually greeting each problems the department faces because of the extra mon- “Is it some kind of alienation in the Western, post-in- other. There’s little regard about race, gender, it’s casual. ey received last year, but this will bite soon. “We’ve got to dustrial societies?” he posited. It’s not a big deal.” get a budget by January or there will be an impasse,” he Meanwhile, he said, readiness levels and measure- said.

=Winging Those earning their wings include: aLt. j.g. Joshua Michael Adams, USN, earned two Navy “E’s” for bombing accuracy. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Oct. 26. Ad- ams completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron (VT) Seven. a Lt. j.g. Cameron James Benner, USN, was selected for E2/C2 and underwent multi-en- gine training in Corpus Christi, , before arriving in Meridian. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Dec. 12. Benner completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. a Lt. j.g. Cory Scott Couture, USN, was se- lected for E2/C2 and underwent multi-engine training in Corpus Christi before arriving in Meridian. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Dec. 12. Couture completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Seven. a 1st Lt. Michael James Fineis, USMC, car- rier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Dec. 12. Fineis completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. a Lt. j.g. Ross Bonn Gamelgaard, USN, earned four Navy “E’s” for bombing accuracy. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Oct. 27. Gamelgaard completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. a Lt. j.g. Ty Southwick Griffin, USN, -car rier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Oct. 27, where he received the “Top Hook” award. Griffin com- pleted Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT- 7. a Lt. j.g. Maxtrillion Jacob Kyman, USN, was selected for E2/C2 and underwent multi- engine training in Corpus Christi before ar- riving in Meridian. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Dec. 13. Kyman completed Ad- vanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. a Lt. j.g. Mitchell James Lopes, USN, earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Training. He car- rier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Oct. 27. Lopes completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-9. a Lt. j.g. Mark Andrew Lutthans, USN, was selected for E2/C2 and underwent multi-en- gine training in Corpus Christi before arriv- ing in Meridian. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Dec. 13. Lutthans completed Ad- vanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. a Lt. Christopher Joseph O’Donnell, USN, earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Oct. 27. O’Donnell completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-9. a Lt. j.g. John Henry Rapp, USN, was se- lected for E2/C2 and underwent multi-engine training in Corpus Christi before arriving in Meridian. He carrier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Dec. 13. Rapp completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. a 1st Lt. Steven Andrew Schwartz, USMC, earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Training. He car- rier qualified in the T-45C on board the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) Oct. 27. Schwartz completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with VT-7. The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 9

This week we asked “What’s your New Year’s resolution and why?”

IT’S YOUR TURN... By Adam Prince

HN Christian Lufkin HM2 Hannah Pickett HM3 Anthony Tharp HN Ryan Charles HM3 Zachary Seals NBHC Staff NBHC Staff NBHC Staff NBHC Staff NBHC Staff “To make more money, “I don’t do resolutions.” “To spend more quality time “To keep improving “To stop drinking so many because I am broke.” with my family.” everday.” energy drinks and save money.”

Fleet & Family Support Center A fresh outlook for a new year FFSC Briefs The new year is a time for reflection on our ac- create a positive mental picture of themselves ac- To register for any of the following workshops, please call the complishments—both personally and profession- complishing their goals. In other words, we can get FFSC at 601-679-2360. The class may not be presented if no one registers, so make sure you call if you’re interested! Can’t make ally—in the one just gone by. It is also a time to set bogged down in the details and lose sight of the big the scheduled time? Call anyway - the workshop facilitator may new goals. picture. be able to work with you one-on-one, give you materials, or let Unfortunately the goals set in January often be- So, if your goal is weight loss, you should first you know when the class will be offered again. All classes held at come February’s broken promises. To avoid getting consciously develop a mental picture of how you will FFSC (Building 405) unless otherwise noted stuck in a pattern of setting resolutions that are look, feel and behave once you’ve reached your ideal doomed to fail year after year, try a new approach weight. That image will then be what you strive for Conflict Management this year. Since the new year signifies a period of rather than solely focusing on the bathroom scales. renewal, begin with a fresh outlook. We frequently It’s common for human beings to stubbornly try the Jan. 9 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. or are critical of ourselves as we set New Year’s resolu- same approaches time and time again to reach a 4:30-5:30 p.m. tions. By doing so, we start off on the wrong foot goal. That’s commendable. However, new approach- Conflict is normal, even in the most by sending a negative message to ourselves. Is it no es are often what ultimately make the difference. wonder that we then fail to live up to our own harsh, While there are no guarantees you will be success- high-functioning work groups. We all and often unrealistic, expectations? ful, consider trying a new angle on New Year’s reso- have different styles, points of view, and Start off by taking time to reflect on your accom- lutions. Don’t waste time waiting for inspiration. ways of communicating. However, when plishments from the past year. Even the smallest of Begin, and the inspiration will follow. a conflict between two individuals or successes count. If it was a difficult year, give your- Here are a few suggestions to help you enjoy the self credit for surviving it. Count your blessings. gift of life more. And remember, once you’ve at- within a group lingers or goes There always is someone less fortunate than you. tained better mental health, anything’s possible. unresolved, it can waste time, lower Instead of setting goals for yourself, why not fo- energy and morale, and leave those cus on one primary goal? Make a commitment to New year ideas include: involved with hurt feelings that are hard yourself to enjoy your life more. Rather than be- a Take up a new hobby. grudgingly telling yourself once again that, “this is a Experience more sunrises and sunsets. to forget. If you need to improve your the year I will go on another diet and lose those 20 a Turn off the TV. coping-with-conflict skills, come to this pounds,” perhaps a more positive approach is to set a Write more letters (preferably by hand). workshop to learn the mediation method a goal of changing your attitude about your life. a Volunteer. This way, you will make lifestyle changes that a Let children teach you how to play and laugh and other tips to manage the sticky will ultimately help you lose weight and keep it off again. situations in your life. for life. Certainly it is important to set goals in spe- a Make something with your own hands. a cific terms and have a step-by-step plan by which Go on more picnics. Suicide Awareness to accomplish those goals. Yet researchers also have a Give yourself a compliment every day. found that one of the most important characteris- a Slow down and smell the roses. Jan. 17 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. or tics common to successful people is their ability to -- from FFSC 3:30-4:30 p.m. Did you know that suicide has been the second or third leading cause of death Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of visits TR on holiday tour among active duty Sailors and Marines for the past ten years? FFSC is raising By MC1 John Hetherington awareness about suicide to help USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs prevent the number of men and women

Gen. Joe Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of our military family loses to suicide each Staff, led a group of distinguished visitors, to include year. Topics of discussion will include: a Medal of Honor recipient, the Senior Enlisted Advi- why people kill themselves; warning sor to the Chairman, and celebrity guests sponsored signs; what you can do; and places to by the United Service Organizations (USO), to spend time with Sailors and Marines while deployed aboard get help. Don’t miss this opportunity to the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) gain information that might save a life. Dec. 23 as part of a USO Holiday Tour. “Christmastime is a tough time for our men and women who are deployed and what’s important is we Sexual Assault Victim Advocate let them know that what they are doing out there ev- Training ery day really matters, that it is appreciated and the Jan. 22-26 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. folks back home are paying attention to them,” Ma- The Sexual Assault Prevention and rine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford said. Photo by MC3 Alex Perlman Dunford, the distinguished guests, and the USO Sideboys render honors to the Chairman Joint Response Program (SAPR) is seeking entertainers spent the day interacting with the de- Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Marine Corps General Joe nominees from Commands to serve in ployed service members. Dunford as he arrives aboard the aircraft carrier the important and pivotal role of SAPR “This is my first deployment, so it really meant a USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) during a Victim Advocate. DOD 6495.02 requires lot to me for them to come out especially around the USO-sponsored visit. Theodore Roosevelt and its holidays,” said Operations Specialist Seaman Kaitlyn carrier strike group are deployed to the U.S. 5th a 24-hour, 7-day a week sexual assault Anderson. “I was really happy that I got to meet them Fleet area of operations in support of maritime response capability for all military all.” security operations to reassure allies and partners installations. SAPR Victim Advocates Sailors and Marines also gathered in the hangar and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free bay for a variety show that featured appearances and flow of commerce in the region. (VAs) are trained to meet this performances by actor Adam Devine, WWE Super- requirement. Please provide names to stars Michael “The Miz” Mizanin and Alicia Fox, ce- More than 5,000 Sailors and Marines serve aboard Diana Shields, Sexual Assault Response Theodore Roosevelt with embarked staff from Car- lebrity chef Robert Irvine, musician Jerrod Niemann, Coordinator, 601-679-2360 or email comedian Iliza Shlesinger and TNA Wrestling star rier Strike Group (CSG) 9, Destroyer Squadron (DES- Gail Kim. RON) 23, and the squadrons and staff of Carrier Air [email protected]. “My favorite part of the show was meeting [retired Wing (CVW) 17. Army] Capt. Florent Groberg, the Medal of Honor CVW-17 squadrons include the “Stingers” of Strike recipient,” said Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class Zachary Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113, the “Mighty Shrikes” Chavez. “Meeting someone like that up close while of VFA-94, the “Fighting Redcocks” of VFA-22, the we’re so far away from home is an honor. It truly it is.” “Checkerboards” of Marine Fighter Attack Squad- After the performance, Sailors had a chance to ron (VMFA) 312, the “Cougars” of Electronic Attack meet with Dunford and the entertainers for photos Squadron (VAQ) 139, the “Sun Kings” of Carrier Air- and autographs. borne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 116, the “Pro- “It shows me that Gen. Dunford cares, not just viders” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) about his office but all of us around the world,” said 30, the “Indians” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Cpl. Kevin Duran, assigned to the Checkerboards of (HSC) 6 and the “Battlecats” of Helicopter Maritime Marine Strike Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 312. Strike Squadron (HSM) 73. “It shows that he really cares about his people.” The Theodore Roosevelt Strike Group’s deploy- All USO performers volunteered to travel over ment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations supports the holidays to participate in variety-style shows and Operation Inherent Resolve and signals the continued troop engagements to show service members that commitment to defeat and destroy ISIS. America remembers them and values their service. In addition to anti-ISIS missions, the strike group is For more than 76 years, the USO, a private, non- conducting maritime security operations to reassure profit organization, has served the men and women of allies and partners, preserve freedom of navigation the U.S. military and their families throughout their and maintain the free flow of commerce. service-from the moment they join, through their de- Theodore Roosevelt left its homeport of San Diego, ployments and as they transition back to their com- Oct. 6, for a regularly-scheduled deployment to the munities. U.S. 7th and 5th Fleet areas of operations. 10 The Skyline ~ January 4, 2018 Defeat-ISIS Coalition reflects on 2017, looks forward to 2018 The 70 nations and four or- ganizations that comprise the coalition that’s dedicated to the defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria reflect on prog- ress made in 2017 and look for- ward to 2018, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. The defeat-ISIS campaign, which commenced in 2014, achieved its most significant progress in 2017 as key cities in Iraq and Syria, including Mo- sul, Hawijah, Qaim, Tal Afar, Raqqa and Tabqah, were sys- tematically liberated from ISIS’ so-called caliphate, officials said. During 2017, over 61,500 square kilometers of territory was liberated from ISIS across Iraq and Syria, meaning “more than 98 percent of the land once claimed by the terrorist group has been returned to the peo- ple,” said Army Lt. Gen. Paul E. Funk II, commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve. More than 4.5 million people were liberated from ISIS op- pression in 2017, said Funk, who added this represents a “remarkable achievement by our partners leading to [the lib- eration of] a grand total of 7.7 million people over the three years of Operation Inherent Photo by Cpl. Rachel Diehm Resolve.” Members of the Iraqi security forces provide security during rural combat training at Camp Taji, Iraq. Camp Taji is one of four Combined Joint The coalition began 2017 Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve locations dedicated to training partner forces and enhancing their effectiveness on the battlefield. with 67 member organizations, CJTF-OIR is the global coalition that’s dedicated to the defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. and concluded the year with 74, Funk said. This, he said, defeat ISIS in 2017 will be re- Building on these accom- security for their people and is still attempting to establish indicates the international re- membered, officials said. This plishments, the coalition’s ef- their national borders, officials regional networks and remains solve to defeat ISIS is “stronger includes hundreds of brave forts are refocusing on sup- said. The coalition will build on a regional and global threat than ever, and we will continue Iraqis and Syrians who gave porting the international the training that has already through its ability to orga- our efforts to prevent the re- their lives for their nations, community’s whole-of-govern- been delivered to over 126,500 nize or inspire acts of violence surgence of this perverse ideol- service members from coalition ment efforts to prevent the re- Iraqis and more than 12,500 against innocent people around ogy.” nations and the many innocent emergence of ideology-based Syrians to date, officials added. the world, officials added. However, ISIS’ “repressive Iraqis and Syrians who have terrorism and to assist part- Support from the interna- Coalition officials urge in- ideology continues,” the gen- died as a result of ISIS’ terror- ners in bolstering security that tional community is vital to the ternational governments and eral said. And, he added, the ism, officials said. will enable stability in the re- defeat of ISIS and achievement nongovernmental organiza- conditions remain present for As 2018 begins, the Iraqi gion and around the world, of- of stability in the region,” said tions to answer the call of the ISIS to return. government looks forward to ficials said. The future success British army Maj. Gen. Felix Iraqi and Syrian people to “Only through coalition and continuing to help its people of non-military activity will be Gedney, deputy commander of build conditions that prevent international efforts can the rebuild after the nation’s com- decisive in the defeat of ISIS, strategy and support for CJTF- the re-emergence of violent ex- defeat [of ISIS] become perma- plete liberation from ISIS, of- officials said. OIR. tremism, so that the people of nent,” Funk said. ficials said. Syrian Democratic The coalition’s contribution Despite a string of suc- Iraq and Syria can be perma- The coalition looks forward Forces remain engaged in the will be largely through contin- cesses by ISF and SDF, much nently freed from the horrors of to further success in 2018, and final phases of liberating the ued training of Iraqi security work remains to ensure the ISIS. those who made the ultimate middle Euphrates River Valley, forces and the Syrian Demo- enduring defeat of ISIS, offi- -- From a Combined Joint Task Force sacrifice in the global effort to officials added. cratic Forces, who will provide cials said. The terrorist group Operation Inherent Resolve Public Affairs

the Navy updates SRB plan Meridian Star

The Navy updated the Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) award plan for active component (AC) and full time support (FTS) Sailors in NAVAD- MIN 311/17 released Dec. 22. This NAVADMIN updates the June 2017 SRB plan released in NAVAD- MIN 144/17 and includes 26 award level increases, 22 award level decreas- es, seven skill additions, and 11 skill removals. SRB serve as an incentive for those Sailors with critical skills and ex- perience to remain in the Navy. Sailors can keep abreast of award changes Honoring Outstanding Teachers and through the Navy’s SRB webpage at http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/ career/enlistedcareeradmin/Pages/SRB.aspx/ and review the NAVADMIN, which contains a complete listing of changes to skills award levels eligible Educators in East Mississippi and for SRBs. Enlisted community managers continuously monitor the health of their West Alabama community to maintain acceptable manning levels in critical skills, and rec- ommend adjustments to SRBs when necessary. Skill removals and award level decreases take effect 30 days after notifi- cation through release of the NAVADMIN or posting on the Navy Personnel Do you have a teacher who has made Command website, whichever is earliest. an impact on you or your child’s life? Eligible Sailors desiring SRB reenlistment are encouraged to work with their command career counselors, command master chiefs and chain of com- Do you have a teaching mand to discuss timing of reenlistment and procedures well before their End of Active Obligated Service. Requests are required to be submitted a colleague whose style you admire? minimum of 35 days prior to the requested reenlistment date. -- From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs Nominate them for the Golden Apple Award! Then, encourage others to do the same! Nominations may be submitted by students, parents, faculty, or community members. Nominees must be someone employed full-time in the K-12 education field (public or private) within the following counties: Lauderdale, Neshoba, Kemper, Clarke, Newton, Choctaw & Sumter

LaBiche Jewelers * Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company

To nominate a teacher, log on to wmdn.net, wgbctv.com, goldenappleawards.com 25995-1 or meridianstar.com