Donald M. Mackie Award Winning Website & Newsletter

VOL. 57 DELGENE PHILLIPS - EDITOR WWW.LAKEWASHNLUS.ORG SEPTEMBER 2011

FUTURE EVENTS UPCOMING LAKE  Oct 26-29 2011 NL National Con- COUNCIL EVENTS vention, Chattanooga, TN Monday 19 Sep Joint Base McChord C17 Flight - TOUR FULL  Sept. 29, 2012 Coast Guard Ball Wednesday 21 Sep 5:30PM Board Meeting Bellevue Red Lion Additional information on LWC meet- ings and events can be found on our Wednesday 28 Sep Dinner Honoring three adopted units: web site at www.lakewashnlus.org.  USCG Base Contact us: [email protected].  USCG Response Boast Medium Project ABOUT US  Liberty High School NJROTC

The Lake Washington Council (LWC) Red Lion Bellevue Inn, 11211 Main Street, Bellevue No-Host Social 6:00 is part of the Navy League of the Unit- PM, Dinner 7:00 PM, Program 8:00 PM, Adjourn 9:00 PM Cost per person ed States, www.navyleague.org. $40.00 paid by 21 Sept $45.00 at the door

LWC Adopted Units: You may also make your reservation via e-mail to [email protected]  USCGC Healy (WAGB 20) Mail your check, payable to LWC-NLUS, to: LWC-NLUS  Marine Expeditionary Security PO Box 183 Squadron Nine Medina WA 98039-0183  USCG Base Seattle  USCG Response Boat Medium  USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) Wednesday 9 November Dinner Honoring three adopted  NOAA Ship Rainier units:  USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23)  Undersea R & D Detachment  USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72)  Liberty High School NJROTC  University of Washington NROTC  NOAA Ship Rainier  USN Sea Cadet Corps, Everett

National Directors:  Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron Nine

PLAN NOW TO ATTEND ! Roger Ponto Ken Sparks Dave Visneski Donna Visneski

VOYAGER  September 2011

VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE decision making ability, being drug free… and “Hire America’s more. Heroes” The bottom line… Veterans make excellent em- ployees and should always be fully considered As we move into the when a company or organization is in a “hiring second half of 2011, mode.” I would normally Recently when returning from the East Coast, I talk about all of the picked up the latest edition of Time Magazine. successful events Its cover story… “The New Greatest Genera- and tours that the tion,” talked in detail about this new “resource” Lake Washington that is being created. Council held during the first eight months of the Quoting in part from the 29 March edition of year and a projection of where the Council is Time… “The returning veterans are bringing heading as we through 2011 and into 2012. skills that seem to be on the wane in American However, for this “View…” I thought that I society, qualities we really need now: crisp deci- would go in a different direction, and talk about sion making, rigor, optimism, entrepreneurial a “resource” that is emerging from the conflicts creativity, a larger sense of purpose and real pat- that we have been engaged in during the past riotism (as opposed to self-righteous flag wav- ten plus years in Iraq and Afghanistan. And that ing). Indeed, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan resource is the military men and women who require a new military skill set, far more sophis- are serving their county around the world. ticated than for previous conflicts - and far dif- Today’s servicemen and women practice on a ferent from the yes-sir no-sir rote discipline that daily basis a combination of values and skills most civilians associate with the military.” that are becoming increasingly more difficult to “World War I was fought by large units like bat- find in Corporate America. Skills such as lead- talions” says John Nagl, a former army officer ership and problem solving, honesty and dedica- who is chairman of the Center for a New Ameri- tion, a strong work ethic, the ability to learn, can Security (CNAS), a Washington think tank almost entirely staffed by the new generation of 2011 DIRECTORS veterans, “World War II was fought by compa- nies, Viet Nam by platoons. The current wars are President………………………………..Pete Stiles all about small teams, who have to interact with VP, Adopted unit…………………..Al Torstensen the local Iraq and Afghan populations. That has required a different kind of soldier.” VP, Corp. & Com Affairs…….....Craig Chapman The article goes on to say… Treasurer…………….Lee Anne Petersen-Walker “The Pentagon is rightly worried that many of its Secretary…………………………..Donna Visneski best young leaders, especially captains like Ellis, Chaplain………………………………...Cec Allison are leaving the service after multiple tours in war Judge Advocate………….....………..Ken Sparks zones. But the military’s brain drain is civilian America’s gain: “These soldiers had to rebuild

communities and make difficult decision under Council Directors: huge pressure,” says General David Petraeus Jim Ardissono Jim Britt Louise Chase whose revamped training procedures helped cre- Penny Dustin Rich Fitzpatrick Phil Johnson ate this new force. Bert Kinghorn Robert Mitchell Delgene Phillips Roger Ponto Jim Sketchley Steve Travis ...continued on page 3

Dave Visneski Kathleen Wright Sheldon Woodle

2 VOYAGER  September 2011

PLEASE UPDATE BOTH USPS AND EMAIL ADDRESSES! LWC BUSINESS AFFILIATES

If you have an email account and have not re- Corporate Members ceived council news in the last month or so, we may not have your current email address.  Converteam

Many opportunities such as cruise embarks,  Honeywell tours, etc., occur at the last minute and are passed to council members via email. It would be a  Kvichak Marine Industries Inc. shame if you miss the chance to take advantage  Microsoft of a chance to be included because of a missing email address.  Safe Boats International

The council incurs costs when Voyager issues are  Schneider Electric returned with yellow USPS change of address labels, so let us know address changes before the Voyager is mailed. Community Affiliates

Please contact [email protected] with your  Boeing updated email address. This will ensure that you  Cadick Corporation are receiving the latest information from your  First Command Financial Planning Council.  Flags & Flagpoles Northwest  Forde Financial & Tax, Inc. ...View From Bridge continued from page 2  Global Construction Services, Inc.  Red Lion Bellevue Inn “They‘ve had to show incredible flexibility, never  Sperry Ocean Dock Ltd knowing whether they’re going to be greeted with  USAA On Line Banking a handshake or a hand grenade. They’ve been ex-  Vertical Path Recruiting posed to experiences that are totally unique, com- pared with most Americans. Once they’ve seen the elephant, they surely can help rebuild Joplin. I be- Through their financial contributions, these lieve they are our next generation of leaders.” business affiliates demonstrate their commit- ment to LWC-NLUS, to the mission of the Na- I realize that this article focuses on members of the vy League, and their desire to support young U.S. Army. However, the attributes, skills and val- people through our programs and scholarships. ues described above, and in the entire Time article, apply to all returning veterans, and in all of our military services, including the Sea Services. Partners

 Washington State Committee Employer As we move through this year and into 2012, I Support of the Guard and Reserve hope that you will all honor and recognize today’s returning service men and women and when you or  Hire America’s Heroes your company has a need for a new employee that  Everett Council of the Navy League you will hire one of America’s heroes.”  Tacoma Council of the Navy League

Pete Stiles President

3 VOYAGER  September 2011

NS Everett Division Sea Cadets present every other Saturday and during the summer, the colors at the Don James Center Event cadets enjoy participating in a variety of Ad- vanced Trainings of their choice. Everett Sea By Jim Sketchley Cadets have enjoyed the opportunity to partici- pate in the following hands-on advanced train- ing sessions:

1. 21-day deployment aboard the USCGC Henry M. Blake 2. Basic Medical Training at Balboa Naval Hos- pital 3. Basic Airman Training at NAS Whidbey Is- land and at NAS Lemoore 4. Basic Construction Battalion Training at San Louis Obispo 5. Submarine training at Bangor 6. Field Medical training at Joint Base Lewis- Left to right: Cadet PO2 Lester-Jedric Flores, SN Taylor McChord with a Marine Detachment Clift, SA Cedric Marigmen, PO Leighton-Joshua Flores 7. MAA training in New York Photos by Roger Ponto 8. Advanced SCUBA training in San Diego Naval Sea Cadet Everett Division is one of ap- 9. Marksman training proximately 260 Sea Cadet units across the Unit- 10. Hands-on shipboard training aboard the ed States. The Everett unit has enjoyed in- USS Nimitz, the USS Knox, the USS German- creased growth and many changes over the past town and other vessels few years. In 2009, it was selected as the Most 11. Two Everett Sea Cadets graduated from the Improved Unit in Region 13, and last May, it two-week SEAL advance training at NAB was selected as the Top Unit in Region 13. It is Coronado and also in Florida. sponsored by both the Everett as well as the LWC NL Councils. Unlike NJROTC units which The U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) has have regular high school classes and paid adult openings for young people, between the ages 10 leaders, Sea Cadet adult leaders are volunteers; -17 to join existing members of Naval Station and are not paid for their time spent away from Everett Division, NSCC. The unit drills at the their families while drilling or training with Sea Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC), Cadets. They do it because they believe they can Building 2106, which is located on Naval Sta- make a difference for these fine young men and tion Everett base property. The base is located women. It is also because of the variety of out- at 2000 West Marine View Drive, Everett, standing hands-on training that is afforded to Sea Washington, 98207. To participate in an anti- Cadets on Navy and Coast Guard vessels and at drug, anti-alcohol, anti-tobacco and anti-gang various shore stations. The following Everett environment, cadet applicants must be crime- Division adult volunteers attended the Don free, drug-free and physically fit. Cadets must James Center Event: Executive Officer, ENS maintain good grades in school, which are veri- Joe Flores (who is also a Chief in the Reserves); fied quarterly. In addition to one or two week a Training Officer, LTJG Laura Clift, and the training events during the summer, the unit drills unit Supply Officer, WO Kyle Clift, who just two Saturday’s per month. returned from a deployment to Kuwait with his Division Sea Cadets meet (drill) between 07:30 reserve unit and recently was promoted to Senior & 15:30. Adult volunteers dedicated to instilling Chief. NS Everett Division drills at the Everett the core values of Pride, Service and Patriotism NOSC on NS Everett property. The unit drills manage the program.

4 VOYAGER  September 2011

Submarine Orientation, SEAL training, medical training. Nine of our Sea Cadets completed two weeks of Sea Cadet Recruit Training this sum- mer, and 11 others participated in a multitude of Advanced Training sessions. Cadets learn about fire fighting, damage control, military drill and naval customs. Adult volunteers, with or without military experience are needed to help the Sea Cadet program grow. Interested adults and prospective cadets are encouraged to visit the unit and see how the program may work for them. To make an appointment, con- tact the unit's Public Affairs Officer, LCDR Jim Sketchley, NSCC at (661) 349-5157. The unit conducts a new cadet and parent orientation meeting almost every Saturday morning. It typ- ically starts at 08:50 AM and lasts about 40 minutes, depending on the number of questions. You do not need to bring anything except inter- ested children, ages 10 ~ 17. For further infor- During the evening program, Petty Officer Flores mation regarding this program, go to and Seaman Clift (below) shared some of their www.everettseacadets.com advanced training experiences while attached to NS Everett Division over the past two years. Increased Demand for Special Opera- tions

Special operations forces will become more im- portant in the future, said Navy ADM Eric T. Olson, who turned over the reins of U.S. Special Operations Command in August. Olson was the first Navy SEAL to become a four-star admiral, and he has been in charge of the command since July 2009. While special operations forces come from all services, they have a similar mindset, he said. “It was with purpose and focus, agility and talent, tenacity and courage, celebration and mourning that our forces moved forward,” he said during the transfer of command ceremony in Tampa, FL. “Special operations forces by nature do not own mass or terrain. What they have is agility and speed, innovation and wis- dom. They value knowledge over doctrine, ex- perience over theory.” Special operations forc- Sea Cadets wear the traditional Navy uniform, es form a community of “self-starters, deep modified with NSCC identification patches on thinkers, imagineers, problem solvers, aggres- each shoulder. They can participate in a multi- sive leaders and teammates to whom they can tude of advanced training programs, including at- and often do trust with their lives.” sea training with the Navy and Coast Guard,

5 VOYAGER  September 2011

Don James Center Summer Fun Event comments, CAPT Homan introduced 2LT Chris- topher Johnson USMC, a recent UW graduate

By Pete Stiles who previously served in Afghanistan, and Of- Photos by Roger Ponto ficer Candidate Alex Wytaske, a qualified Navy

Lake Washington Council, NLUS, held its se- cond annual Summer Fun Event at the Don James Center at the University of Washington Husky Stadium as a joint event with Everett Council NLUS. This year, LWC recognized and honored two of it’s adopted units: the University of Wash- ington Naval ROTC and the Naval Sea Cadet Squadron Everett. The barbecue buffet dinner was provided by Longhorn BBQ, Auburn, WA, and the LWC provided complimentary ice tea, beer and wine. The program began with the presentation of colors by the Everett Division Sea Cadets Honor Guard, followed by the pledge of allegiance by board member RADM Bert King- horn, USCG (Ret.) and the invocation by board member Jim Ardissono. Two special guests were Diver. Both spoke about their careers as enlisted introduced: LTCOL Anna Sullivan, USAF, Chief personnel, their university studies, indoctrination of Public Affairs, 446th Airlift Wing, McChord into the NROTC at the University of Washington AFB, and SFC Brian Forbes, USA. Brian is a and future plans as commissioned officers. As “Wounded Warrior,” recovering from injuries with the two Sea Cadets, 2LT Johnson and Candi- sustained in Afghanistan and currently serving at date Wytaske’s comments were well received by Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Jim Sketchley, all in attendance who all agreed that if the high LWC Board member and the Commanding Of- school students and their university counterparts ficer of Naval Sea Cadet Division Everett made a are typical of future Naval leadership then the US short presentation and overview of recent squad- Navy will be in excellent hands. You may know ron activities that the current version of the Don James Center which is fully will be a part of the total renovation of Husky Sta- covered in a dium which will be started in October 2011. How- separate arti- ever, an alternate venue on the UW campus has cle in this been identified and will be reserved for this same newsletter. event in August 2012.

The keynote speaker for the evening was CAPT Nick Hol- man, Profes- sor of Naval Science and Commanding Officer of the UW NROTC. His presentation included comments on a variety of topics including the future that 13 recent graduates of his program could expect as the future leaders of the USN. Following his

6 VOYAGER  September 2011

U.S. Marine Awarded Medal of Honor CGAS Port Angeles Celebrates Naval Aviation Centennial Then-Marine Corps Cpl Dakota Meyer poses for a photo while de- ployed in support of Operation En- during Freedom in Afghanistan’s Kunar province. Meyer will re- ceive the Medal of Honor from President Barack Obama on 15 Sep, making him the first living Marine recipient of the nation’s highest award Coast Guard Air Station / Sector Field Office for valor in combat since the . Port Angeles hosted a local celebration for the Meyer was assigned to Embedded Training Centennial of Naval Aviation combined with a Team 2-8 advising the Afghan army in Afghan- Safe Boating Expo at the Coast Guard base on istan’s eastern provinces bordering Pakistan. Ediz Hook in Port Angeles on 25 June from The 23-year-old Marine scout sniper from Co- 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. In tribute to 100 years lumbia, KY, who has since left the Marine of Naval Aviation, Air Station Port Angeles Corps and is now a Sergeant in the Inactive held a fly-in for government and commercial Ready Reserve, will become the first living aircraft from around the Northwest. Attendees Marine to be awarded the Medal of Honor in toured Air Station / Sector Field Office Port 38 years. SgtMaj Allan Kellogg, Jr. USMC Angeles, including the hangar and locally sta- (Ret.) received the medal in 1973 for gallantry tioned Coast Guard cutters and response boats. in Vietnam three years earlier. Meyer is the A search-and-rescue demonstration was con- second Marine to receive the medal for actions ducted by the crew of an MH-65 Dolphin heli- in Iraq or Afghanistan. Cpl Jason Dunham was copter. awarded the medal posthumously for covering a grenade with his body to save two Marines in Iraq in 2004. Hiring Heroes Act

Navy League Designates September as U.S. Senator Patty Murray, Chairman of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps Month Senate Veterans Affairs’ Committee commend- ed President Obama after he outlined new initi- atives to promote veterans employment. Chair- National President, Dan Branch proclaimed man Murray is the author of the bipartisan Hir- September as Naval Sea Cadet Corps (NSCC) ing Heroes Act of 2011, which takes major new Month. Special emphasis will be placed upon steps to put our nation’s veterans into fulfilling the Navy League’s exclusively sponsored jobs when they return home. The bill has com- youth education program during the month of panion legislation in the House of Representa- September. Proclaiming September as NSCC tives and is co-sponsored by 32 Senators, Month commemorates the Sea Cadet Corps for- cleared the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee mal establishment by Congress on 10 Septem- on 29 June and is set to be considered by the ber 1962. full Senate in the fall.

7 VOYAGER  September 2011

Naval Sea Cadets sail on USCGC Eagle the process of getting qualified on the helm, and there’s this wealth of information the crew taught Libby Luedecke and Joe Jackson are USN Naval us about everything.” Sea Cadet Corps Chiefs chosen to sail aboard the Much like the Eagle is an extension of the Coast USCGC Eagle after submitting to a nation-wide Guard’s academic education, it is an extension to competition. Each year, only two spots are made youth organizations. Along with the Naval Sea available to the sea cadets during the ship’s sum- Cadets, the Eagle hosted cadets from the Sea mer training cruise. Scouts, People’s Republic of China, Canada and Naval Sea Cadet Corps Chief Libby Luedecke, 17, of France. The ship provides the Coast Guard an Goochland, VA, mans the helm aboard Eagle. opportunity to reach out and connect with those who may, one day, make the service a career. “The sea cadets are aboard so we can share our service, the barque Eagle, our maritime heritage and our love for the sea with a younger genera- tion who is interested in serving their country,” said Coast Guard LT Jeff Janaro, the Eagle’s op- erations officer. “When they’re aboard, they get to interact with the cadets and crew and learn more about the Coast Guard, our role and our missions.”

USCG photo by PO1 NyxoLyno Cangemi

Aboard the Eagle, the sea cadets are integrated into the daily routine and training just as any oth- er academy cadet. They undergo the same train- ing in operations, engineering, damage control, deck and support, and they experience every bit of daily life aboard a working Coast Guard cut- ter, including standing helm and lookout watch. “I thought I would just be on the Eagle as a USCG SN Steven Kain explains the workings of a compass guest, like I would mostly watch what was going to Joe Jackson, 17, of Astatula, Fla., while aboard the Ea- on,” said Luedecke. “I’m really happy that I get gle. USCG photo by PO1 NyxoLyno Cangemi to be involved and do everything like everyone else. It’s not just the fun stuff either like climbing the rigging and setting the sails – I get to experi- ence everything, including working in the scul- lery or mess cooking, and I love it.” For Naval Sea Cadet Jackson, his time aboard meant getting an opportunity to be in a real, working, military environment and learning from the Eagle’s knowledgeable permanent crew. “This is an amazing experience,” said Jackson. “In the sea cadets we have a lot of training, but the experi- ence aboard the Eagle is one of the best ones available. The second week I was here, I began

8 VOYAGER  September 2011

The Challenge Coin ily accessible place on their person, most ver- Compiled by Craig Chapman sions of Challenge Coin Rules permit a chal- lenged person “a step and a reach” … and is The Challenge Coin or medallion commonly particularly useful if one is challenged in the bears an organization’s insignia or emblem and is shower, which is a tradition in the Navy. carried by the organization’s members. They are given to prove membership when challenged, to While Challenge Coins have tradition that car- enhance morale and as a reward or award for out- ried thru WW II, the and Vietnam, standing service or performance of duty. Coins they were not very common until the First Per- given as awards for accomplishments or recogni- sian of 1990-1991, and have steadily tion are normally given to the recipient during a grown in popularity since. President Bill Clin- handshake, passing from the right hand of the ton displayed several racks of Challenge Coins, giver to the which were given to him by U.S. service mem- right hand of bers, on the credenza behind his Oval Office the awardees. desk. President George W. Bush received a It is also nor- challenge coin from a Marine combat patrol mal for the unit during his short but unexpected visit to Al- giver to offer Asad Airbase in Anbar province, Iraq, 3 Sep- a brief expla- tember 2007. President Barack Obama placed nation of the challenge coins on the memorials of the sol- reason for diers slain in the Fort Hood shooting. awarding the coin. The Lake Washington Council of the Navy League of the struck its Chal- The origin of lenge Coin in 2011 to commemorate its com- the Challenge mitment as Civilians in Support of the Sea Ser- Coin finds its roots in military tradition; and sev- vices. It signifies our combined efforts to fur- eral legends attest to its beginning. One such leg- ther the Navy League mission and in support of end stems from WW I when an Army Air Corps sea service units and personnel in our local pilot escaped German captivity during the confu- community. It is awarded to others in recogni- sion of a British bombardment and used a solid- tion of their contributions to the Lake Washing- bronze medallion, struck with his unit’s emblem, ton Council and to the Navy League, and as an to prove his allegiance and avoid execution at the encouragement and challenge for others to help hands of the French. us carry the banner of service and support.

The traditional challenge, which can be made at any time, begins with the challenger drawing his/ her coin and slapping or placing the coin on the table or bar. Everyone being challenged must im- mediately produce their coin and anyone failing to do so must buy a round of drinks for the chal- lenger and everyone else who has their challenge coin. However, should everyone challenged be able to produce their coin, the challenger must buy a round of drinks for the group.

While most holders of Challenge Coins usually carry them in their pockets or in some other read-

9 VOYAGER  September 2011

USS Jimmy Carter (SSN 23) Tour By Ken Sparks We were greeted by USS Jimmy Carter Com- manding Officer, CDR Brian Davies, USN. Af- The USS Jimmy Carter and the Undersea Re- ter thanking the LWC for the annual dinners rec- search and Development Detachment (UR&D) ognizing Carter Sailors of the Year and Quarter hosted 53 Lake Washington Council (LWC) in Bellevue, CDR Davies provided an orienta- members and partner organizations on 14 July at tion of the Carter and UR&D and discussed the Bangor, WA. Most guests started their day way current fast-tracked “shipyard” activity whereby before sunrise, traveling 2-3 hours from the the “top secret” cleared workers were upgrading “eastside” of Seattle and as far away as Portland. the boat on a schedule almost twice as quickly as After arrival coffee and fruit at the Keyport Mu- the typical timeframe. CDR Davis also intro- seum, Navy Base Kitsap Public Affairs Officer duced his Chief of the Boat (COB) Eric Antoine CAPT Tom Danaher USN (Ret.) provided an and our six tour guides for the hour and a half hour orientation on the area including the signifi- tour of many areas of the Carter. The tour guides cant economic contribution to the area and the were: David, Webb, Palmer, Hoagland, Foster tenants. The Sub Base Bangor has SSGNs, and Chief Palmer. After we entered the bowels SSBNs, and the USS Jimmy Carter. After a final of the boat, wherever we went we noted men security clearance for all guests (everyone had to and women at work. The tour included (1) the present USA Passports or birth certificates), the area equivalent to the “bridge” on a tour ship group boarded navy buses escorted by Chief with the navigation, two “cutting edge” peri- Chris Armantrout and Sailor Tim Turdgeon and scopes, the sonar, and a wide array of technolo- drove to the base and through three security gy, (2) the atypical torpedo room (s) with twice checkpoints and arrived at the Development Sub- the tubes, (3) the lower level machine shop and marine Squadron 5 pier bustling with craftsmen, supplement diesel engine for this nuclear pow- technicians, and sailors working on retrofitting ered vessel, (4) mid-level kitchen and eating/ the Carter. meeting areas for the 210 crewmembers, (5) the berthing areas, (6) the unique passage of about 100 feet in the center of the ship that enables UR&D “toys” and related facilities. Can you imagine being away from home for up to six months and the pace of work assignments, drills, and the emergencies in boat where every space is uti- lized. Following the tour and a bar-b-que, Chief Chris Armatrout, with pre- vious experience with the Navy’s Deep Submergence, provided first-hand knowledge and stories about Keyport Museums underwater vehicles cap- ping a full day’s introduc- tion to the much less known and extraordinary US Navy.

10 VOYAGER  September 2011

Coast Guard District 13 as 13th CG District CMC. As the senior enlist- Command Master Chief ed person in the district, CMC Dunn spent a considerable amount of his time in the field, Change of Watch Ceremony visiting the many units in the four state region, By Pete Stiles utilizing his exceptional communications and mentoring skills in support of Coast Guard en- Command Master Chief, or “CMC’s” as com- listed and officer personnel. Master Chief monly referred to, represent their Command, Dunn’s personal awards include four Coast communicating the Commander’s goals and di- Guard Commendation Medals with “O” device, rection for the command to the field, while sim- three Coast Guard Achievement Medals with ultaneously representing the field’s views and “O” device, two Commandant Letters of Com- concerns to the Commander. mendation with “O” device and eight Coast Guard Good Conduct awards. “… He is a rigger, rower, swimmer, sailor, doctor, undertaker, and he’s good at every one of the… “ (Excerpt from The Surfman by Jo- seph Lincoln).

CMC John Dunn epitomizes the very best of a very few and select individuals in our United States Coast Guard.

RADM Blore awards the Meritorious Service Medal to BMCM Dunn

They promote balance between workforce needs and organizational goals. CMC’s provide a “Field Reality Check” as they provide input to high-level policy makers. MCPO Dunn, a native of Olympia, WA, enlisted in the Coast Guard in January 1983. After completing basic training at Cape May, NJ, he was assigned to Station Depot Bay where he qualified as a heavy weather Cox- swain on the 36 foot and 44 foot MLBs and also qualified as a Surfman. In ensuing years he PAC Area CMC pins the CMC insignia on the new D13 served in a variety of increasingly responsible CMC Jason Vanderhaden positions including Deck Supervisor, Watch Of- ficer, XPO and finally, as Officer-In-Charge of Station Chetco River. In 2007, MCPO Dunn was selected by RADM John Currier to serve as the Thirteenth Coast Guard District Command Mas- ter Chief. Most recently he has served under RADM Gary Blore. On 7 July a Change of Watch Ceremony ended a four-year assignment

11 VOYAGER  September 2011

RADM Blore Transfers Ancient Albatross District Commander, he was responsible for U.S. Coast Guard operations covering four Title During Change of Watch states (Washington, , , and Mon- Coast Guard photos by Petty Officer Shawn Eggert tana), more than 4,400 miles of coastline, 600 miles of inland waterways, and 125 miles of in- RADM Gary Blore USCG retired and passed the ternational border with Canada. He was in title of Ancient Albatross to VADM John Curri- charge of more than 5,770 active duty, reserve er during a Change of Watch ceremony at Sector duty, civilian and Auxiliary men and women; in Warrenton, OR on 14 July. whom annual conducted more than 3,000 search -and-rescue missions, executed more than 3,200 law enforcement boardings, and inspected more than 5,700 vessels. Blore was relieved as the 13th District Commander on 12 July by RADM Keith A. Taylor, and retired at the conclusion of the Ancient Albatross ceremony. ADM Robert J. Papp, Jr., Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, oversaw the ceremony.

RADM Blore graduated, with honors, from the Coast Guard Academy in 1975 with a Bachelor of Science in economics and holds an MPA De- gree from Columbia University. His personal decorations include the Distinguished Service Medal, five awards of the Legion of Merit, two Meritorious Service Medals, two Coast Guard Commendation Medals and the Transportation 9 -11 Medal, as well as other service and cam- paign awards.

RADM Gary Blore speaks during the Ancient Albatross Change of Watch Ceremony. Ancient Albatross is an honorary title given to active du- ty Coast Guard members, both enlisted and of- ficer, who have the longest history in aviation among the service. Blore, who served in the Coast Guard for 36 years, received the title in 2009. The Coast Guard Ancient Albatross Award was instituted in 1966 to honor the Coast Guard aviator on active duty who has held that designation for the longest period. RADM Blore served the American public for more than 36 years. RADM Gary Blore passes his aviator's scarf on to VADM John Currier during the ceremony. RADM Blore assumed command of the Thir- Blore, who served in the Coast Guard for 36 teenth Coast Guard District in July 2009. As years, received the title in 2009.

12 VOYAGER  September 2011

USCG Commandant visits CGC Healy

USCG photo by Coast Guard Cutter Healy RADM Gary Blore receives a Distinguished Ser- vice Medal from Coast Guard Commandant USCGC Healy's Commanding Officer CAPT Bev- ADM Robert Papp during his retirement ceremo- erly Havlik, center, leads a discussion with Alice ny at Sector Columbia River in Astoria Thurs- Hill, left, senior counselor to the Secretary of day, 14 July. Blore, who served for 36 years, Homeland Security, LT Chris Skapin, Healy’s ma- ended his career with the Coast Guard as the rine science officer, and Coast Guard Commandant Thirteenth District Commander based in Seattle, ADM Robert Papp in the bio-chemistry laboratory but he held the position of Group/Air Station aboard the Healy 7 Aug. The official party toured Commander in Astoria from 1997-2000. the Healy's Arctic Research spaces essential to the RADM Gary Blore receives a National Ensign ship’s distinct operations.

USMC Reserves Celebrate 95 Years from CAPT Tony Hahn during his retirement On 29 Aug, the Marine Forces Reserve marked Blore, who served for 36 years, ended his career another birthday, commemorating the day in 1916 with the Coast Guard as the Thirteenth District when President Woodrow Wilson authorized its Commander based in Seattle, but he held the po- creation. For 95 years, the force has brought essen- sition of Group/Air Station Commander in Asto- tial support to the active Marine Corps and its mis- ria from 1997-2000. sions at home and abroad.

13 VOYAGER  September 2011

USS Lincoln CVN 72) Visit Arranged always culminate in once in a lifetime opportunity to get close to military installations/planes/ships, through ESGR etc.. Yesterday, it was a visit to (CVN 72).

So, I reported to Naval Station Everett and found Editor note: Below is an article written by a Mi- my way to our conference room for the day. I want- crosoft Team member who visited the USS Abra- ed to make sure I could really absorb all I could, so ham Lincoln (CVN 72) on a visit arranged I looked everywhere I was allowed to and soaked in through the Employer Support of the Guard and what was presented to me. Coming from civilian Reserve (ESGR) and a subordinate employee – a life, and from Microsoft, there are a couple of USAF Reserve officer, Stephen Oliver. ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and points which are striking: understanding between Reserve component mem- · Security is extraordinarily tight, and shows up in bers and their civilian employers and to assist in places we typically do not expect it. To come on the resolution of conflicts arising from an employ- base, we had to show a trifecta of ID, vehicle ee's military commitment. It is the lead DoD or- insurance card and registration, which all had to ganization for this mission. For a link to his pho- be current. Once on base, I could see no card tos click on this link and sign in if you have a Fa- readers on doors, but using virtually any elec- cebook account: tronic equipment required a card key. Unlocking the Windows XP laptop also required a card http://www.facebook.com/media/set/? key, and if a different presenter was unlocking set=a.10150421425623625.448505.612258624 it, he had to identify himself as well. · Some Reserve Forces’ concept carry quite perfect- On 19 August, I had the chance and the privilege ly to the corporate world: to represent Microsoft, through an invitation trig- gered by Stephen Oliver and ESGR, and spend the o In the morning presentation, we learned day in Naval Station Everett, home of nuclear- about the notion of Augment Forces, powered aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln which can be deployed anywhere, in any (CVN 72). Stephen Oliver serves in the Air Force armed forces too. Navy personnel are Reserve, as a Maintenance Officer, with the rank deployed, on the ground, in several com- of Major. Stephen was key in Microsoft receiving, bat operations front, and some units are a few years ago, a top Department of Defense composed by navy reserves at over 70%. (DoD) award recognizing its efforts to hire veter- o Training is continuous and probably one ans and accommodate Reserves and National of the utmost commitment. Our guide Guard members. explained how in his job, as a communi- cation officer, he has spent the past 2 years training his replacement, as he is leaving the Navy in December, having as he put it, “served my nation and got- ten my degree doing it”. He mentioned that a rule of thumb on the ship is to have NO ROLE without a redundancy plan. Our guide also explained how so many of the recruits have a basic educa- ESGR is a DoD organization which provides a tion coming in, and spend years getting link between employers and Guard or Reserves to the level they want to reach. There forces. Stephen and I have been trying to align also were a number of flyers throughout calendars for years now, on events like yester- on how to increase your level of educa- day’s which combine networking opportunities, tion. job placements, presentations-packed sessions and

14 VOYAGER  September 2011

while on the ship, sailors asked the officers ac- · I was amazed by the numbers of posters, flyers, and stickers on sexual harassment and how to companying us what this group of civilians was report it. In the building, it was everywhere, in all about. A quick mutual salute, and hand corridors, on information boards, in the re- shake, and laughter ensued, it almost would strooms, in the meeting room. Every bulletin never miss. And when we would stay in an area board on the ship has similar information. I where sailors were at work, it was clear to me was surprised by the very high number of fe- that the banter was friendly, casual, yet im- male sailors as well. The support ships for mensely respectful. As sailors explained their (CVN 72) are actually commanded by a fe- roles, Reserve officers from the base asked male captain. questions to them, and clearly showed respect when the answers came. · The sense of team is so deeply ingrained. Along with “thank you” the word team is by far the Finally, for the chuckles of the day, I offer: one we heard the most during the day. Even - Before going aboard, I tried my best to have while talking to enlisted sailors, far away from clean and polished shoes. I laugh when I our guide, it was obvious that a sense of cohe- compared them to the shoes officers’ wore. sion and camaraderie prevails on the ship. I One was nice enough to accommodate my asked a sailor, whether when the ship in his photo op, as displayed in the album on Fa- home port like yesterday, he was living at cebook. Yeah, yeah the shoe is not the home or staying on the ship. He told me he same, but mine still looked like nothing! stayed on the ship, always, even when not on - At one point, in the morning video briefing, duty, as “his buddies were here, and I can save there was a slide on the budget. All num- a lot of money staying onboard”. Every group bers were in billions, and I thought of the of more than 5 seem to perform the task at pressure of landing such a budget! hand having a good time. Sailors were pulling arresting cables on deck. They seemed to be - There was a bathroom poster on activities to extremely heavy and they were giggling hard report, which mentioned “talk of allegiance as one sailor skidded on a grease patch and to any foreign nations, contrary to the inter- had the cable land on his back. An officer, est of the United States.” Ah! Not the time who was supervising the group, offered his to say you’re French! hand for the sailor to come back up – both - A white star was painted where there was dan- laughing hard. ger for your head, going up and down lad- · The youth and fitness of the people we met on ders. Some were worn out, having clearly base was real. Right by the station’s entrance, been embraced by unsuspecting skulls! at 07:00 AM, a group of sailors was doing a Thanks to Stephen for a wonderful opportunity, as run and stopping every few 100 feet for well as for his service. It was a pleasure to spend ground exercises, singing all the while. We the day in a setting clearly different from the one I met sailors not in their 20's yet, others in their live in every day. 20’s with already 6-7 years of experience in the Navy. From all the sailors we met, I found Thanks! touching to realize the level of commitment these young boys and girls were making. I felt Jean Philippe Bagel incredibly grateful and humble. Content Publishing Director Office Developer & Interoperability Content- · The Respect and Camaraderie between enlisted Microsoft Corporation men sailors and officers. I learned of the cov- ered areas and non-covered areas, where in covered areas officers are saluted, while they are not in uncovered areas. Several times

15 VOYAGER  September 2011

LAKE WASHINGTON COUNCIL NON-PROFIT ORG NAVY LEAGUE OF THE UNITED STATES US Postage Paid P.O. BOX 183 Permit #9 MEDINA WA 98039-0183 Medina WA 98039

Return Service Requested

NAVY LEAGUE of the United States

Lake Washington Council CITIZENS IN SUPPORT OF THE SEA SERVICES Lake Washington Council is your community organization that:  Supports our Sea Services: USCGC Healy, USS Abraham Lincoln, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron Nine, USCG Base Seattle, NOAA Ship Rainier, USS Jimmy Carter, and Undersea R & D Detachment, USCG Response Boat-Medium Project.  Supports local Naval Reserve Officers Training Units and USN Sea Cadet Corps: NJROTC at Liberty High School, NROTC at University of Washington, and USN Sea Cadet Corps, Everett.  Increases awareness of the diversity of maritime units in Puget Sound.  Conveys the pivotal role our Puget Sound sea services play in our national and regional security.  Furthers understanding that maritime commerce is the cornerstone of our region’s economy. Navy League of the United States Mission Statement A civilian organization dedicated to informing the American people and their government that the United States of America is a maritime nation and that its national defense and economic well being are dependent upon strong sea services – United States Navy, United States Marine Corps, United States Coast Guard and United States Merchant Marine.

16 VOYAGER  September 2011