NGIS to Close March 31 Navy Gateway Inns and Suites Onboard NAS Meridian Will Close Lodging Operations March 31

Volume 57, Number 1 https://www.cnic.navy.mil/meridian ~ www.facebook.com/NASMeridian ~ Twitter: @nasmeridianms January 10, 2019 NGIS to close March 31 Navy Gateway Inns and Suites onboard NAS Meridian will close lodging operations March 31. Under new CNIC guidelines, all DoD lodging must be 100 percent self-sufficient – including building utilities and infrastructure. NGIS onboard NAS Meridian is unable to at- tain this self-sufficiency without appropriated funds. Travelers requiring lodging on temporary duty to NAS Meridian should continue to utilize the Defense Travel System (DTS) and 877-NAVY-BED -- www.dodlodging.net -- for lodging reservations to receive a Certificate of Non-Availability. --From MWR

2018 year in review; Top ten stories 1. Vice President Pence attends winging Eight new aviators made the next step in their career on Sept. 28 by earning their Wings of Gold during a ceremony in the chapel on board Naval Air Station Meridian.

Special guests at the ceremony were Vice President Mike Pence and Second Lady Karen Pence who were on hand to see their son, U.S. Marine 1st Lt. Michael J. Pence, receive his wings. 2.

4. Farewell US, Allies to Bush, strike targets in McCain Syria in response to chemical attacks We said to farewell to Former President George H. W. Bush on Nov. 30, and Senator John McCain U.S., French and British forces have struck targets in on Aug. 25. Both men served in the Navy and Syria as punishment for Syrian leader Bashar Assad continued to serve our country after their military using chemical weapons against his own people in careers. 3. early 2018.

“This massacre was a significant escalation in a NAS pattern of chemical weapons use by that very terrible welcomes regime,” Trump said during an announcement from 5. the White House. Baba 2nd Fleet reestablished Naval Air Station Meridian is proud to announce its newest Security Forces member, Military Working Dog (MWD) Baba – a 5-year-old male German Shepherd. Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. John Richardson, 7. announced the establishment of U.S. 2nd Fleet “The entire time Baba has been onboard he has had during a change of command ceremony for U.S. nothing but progression and -- to be honest -- he has Williams Fleet Forces Command (USFF) in Norfolk, May 4. taught me much more than I have taught him,” White said. visits NAS Second Fleet will exercise operational and Meridian administrative authorities over assigned ships, aircraft and landing forces on the East Coast and 6. Base personnel welcomed the last living northern Atlantic Ocean. U.S. Marine Medal of Honor recipient from the Battle of Iwo Jima during a Gold Star Special Program event on May 17 onboard NAS winging Meridian ceremonies Hershel “Woody” Williams -- a retired United 8. States Marine Corps warrant officer and In addition to the winging ceremony at the top of this United States Department of Veterans Affairs list, 2018 saw several other special winging ceremonies., veterans service representative – shared PW Energy including: 1st Lt. Anneliese Satz, the first female Marine stories about his service during World War II. Resilience to earn her wings in nearly eight years; 1st Lt. Matteo Occhipinti and 1st Lt. Andrea Occhipinti, identical twins; “There is no place on this Earth like we have and Lt. j.g. Ethan Williams, a Mississippi native and in this country,” Williams said. “Regardless graduate of Mississippi State University. of where we go in the world – this (America) Public Works identified an energy will always be home. But we couldn’t be who consumption issue at the NGIS in early 2018; we are, or have the privileges that we have, an issue that will ultimately save $83,000 without the protection that we’ve had, and in energy costs and benefit the entire have, from our military. All because of people installation. just like you.” “We identified this issue by analyzing gas consumption; as the temperature went up, 9. the gas consumption did not decrease as it should have for the season – that anomaly indicated that the system wasn’t operating Toys for Tots 10. as efficiently as it should,” Wagoner said. returns “We researched the entire water system, USS Vinson pinpointed the problem area at the NGIS and took corrective action.” makes historic visit to Vietnam Sgt. Demarckus Adams arrived at Marine Aviation Training Support Squadron One onboard Naval Air Station Meridian nearly 18 USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) arrived in Da Nang, Vietnam, for a scheduled port call March months ago and one of the first things he asked about was the 5, marking the first time a U.S. aircraft carrier has visited the country in more than 40 Toys for Tots campaign. years. So, after it was inactive for nine years, Adams revitalized the “The visit marks an enormously significant milestone in our bilateral relations and base’s Toys for Tots program, which donated more than 1,800 toys demonstrates U.S. support for a strong, prosperous, and independent Vietnam,” said to the Wesley House Community Center Dec. 14 to be distributed U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Daniel Kritenbrink. to local families in need. 2 The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 Photo of Week A Day in Naval History

~ Jan. 10, 1917 ~

The first U.S. Navy production order for aerial photographic equipment is initiated when the Naval Observatory issued requisitions for 20 aero cameras and accessories to be manufactured by Eastman Kodak Company.

Photo by MC3 Julio Martinez Vice President Mike Pence and Second Lady Karen Pence visit with a wounded warrior and his family at the USO Warrior and Family Center at Naval Support Activity Bethesda, Md., Dec. 20, 2018.

Area Happenings January 11: Diary of a Worm, a Spider & a Fly at 7 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. This energetic rock ‘n’ roll musical captures the droll humor and whimsy of the wildly popular children’s books. Tickets are $20 and $12; call 601-696-2200. ~ Jan. 14, 1863 ~ 14: Tryouts for “Four Weddings and an Elvis” at 6:30 p.m. at the Meridian Little Theatre. We are looking to cast the Navy General Order 4, signed by Secretary of the Navy Gideon Welles, announces the Emancipation Proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln, which is signed on following: four females ages 20-65 and seven males ages 20-70. Jan. 1, 1863. Performances will be Feb. 21-26. Call 601-938-4447. 18: The Crabb Family Encour Tour 2019 at 7 p.m. at the Historic Temple Theater. Tickets: VIP $35; early access general admission $30; general admission $25; General Admission Groups (10+) Navy News Briefs $20; or www.itickets.com; call 601-693-5353. CNO releases ‘A Design for Maintaining 19: National Council of Meridianites 2019 Convention Kickoff and Membership Drive from 10 a.m.-noon at the Meridian Maritime Superiority, version 2.0’ Museum of Art. Become a member or volunteer to help the Chief of Naval Operations Adm. and ambitious goals that will accelerate Museum in 2019. Call 281-814-5220. John Richardson released ‘A Design for the Navy’s progress. 26: MSO Winter Classical at 7 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. The Maintaining Maritime Superiority, Ver- Meridian Symphony Chorus presents ‘Faure Requiem,’ Haydn’s sion 2.0,’ Dec. 17. The four LOEs are: The document is an update to the a Strengthen Naval Power at and from ‘Symphony 88’ and Ravel’s ‘Mother Goose Suite 1.’ Tickets are earlier ‘A Design for Maintaining Mari- the Sea $35 for adults and $10 for students. Call 601-693-2224. time Superiority, Version 1.0,’ released a Achieve High-Velocity Outcomes 29: Ballet Hispánico at MSU Riley Center at 7:30 p.m. at in January 2016. a Strengthen Our Navy Team for the “Version 2.0 reflects the first reevalu- Future the MSU Riley Center. Ballet Hispánico’s repertory explores ation of Version 1.0,” said Richardson. a Expand and Strengthen Our Net- the diversity of Latino cultures and brings innovative ways of “This update ensures the Navy’s align- work of Partners experiencing and sharing a cultural dialogue. Tickets are $39 and ment with the most current strategic The updated document also expands guidance, assesses the progress made on the four core attributes of integrity, $33; call 601-696-2200. since Version 1.0, and validates the accountability, initiative, and tough- initial design’s characterization of the ness. These attributes are intended to February strategic environment.” define the Navy’s professional identity 7: Frankenstein at 7:30p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. The Aquila As in Version 1.0, Version 2.0 is and guide Navy leaders in making com- Theater Company returns to the Riley Center with its reimagined structured along four Lines of Efforts mand decisions in decentralized opera- version of Mary Shelley’s 1818 horror/science fiction novel, (LOEs). Version 2.0 updates the tasks tions. supporting the LOEs to establish new --From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs Frankenstein. Tickets are $39 and $33; call 601-696-2200. 15: The McKameys at 7 p.m. at the Historic Temple Theatre. The McKameys will return to the Temple Theatre stage for the last time Navy announces advancement policy updates to present their farewell concert. Tickets range between $30-$20, Navy announced changes to the cur- “This is in line with CNP’s rating mod- and children under 12 are free with a paying adult. Call 601-416- rent enlisted advancement Final Mul- ernization efforts and our Sailor 2025 1630. tiple Score (FMS) calculation process talent management initiatives.” Rating beginning with the spring 2019 Active modernization supports Sailor 2025 ini- 15: The Phantom Tollbooth at 7 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. Duty and Selected Reserve (SELRES) tiatives that have the goals of redefining Enchantment Theatre Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, advancement cycles, with the goal of career fields, improving talent manage- uses puppets, masks, inventive scenic effects, and original music rewarding Sailors demonstrating sus- ment and the detailing process, offer- tained superior performance. ing more career choices, and expanding to create a unique, captivating style of children’s theater. Tickets Detailed in NAVADMIN 312/18, re- professional development opportunities. are $20 and $12; call 601-696-2200. leased December 20, the FMS changes These Sailor 2025 initiatives are intend- 21-26: Four Weddings and An Elvis at the Meridian Little include updates to the computation pro- ed to increase Fleet readiness, sustain- cess of the Performance Mark Average ability, and fit. Theatre. Performaces begin at 7 p.m.; with 2 p.m. matinee on (PMA), reduction of the number of cycles The change to policy regarding PMA Feb. 24. Tickets are $18 and $20; call 601-482-6371. for Pass Not Advanced (PNA) points, for E-6 and E-7 candidates is that the In- changes to the Service in Paygrade dividual Trait Average (ITA) and Report- (SIPG) factor, and the discontinuation of ing Senior’s Cumulative Average (RSCA) Individual Augmentee (IA) Points. will be used to determine RSCA PMA for “We are changing the focus of the FMS Sailors competing for advancement to to better manage our talent, minimize E-6 and E-7. The NAVADMIN provides the benefits of longevity and reward our guidance for the revised PMA computa- top performers,” said Capt. Angela Kat- tion, in addition to specific steps and ex- NAS Meridian NMCRS Office is son, branch head of Enlisted Force Shap- amples. ing Plans and Policies (OPNAV 132). --From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

open on Tuesdays from 8 a.m.- The Meridian Little Theatre will hold open auditions for “Four Weddings noon & Thursdays from 8:30 and an Elvis” on Jan. 14-15 at 6:30 p.m. Sandy, the four-times-married-three-times-divorced owner of a wedding chapel in Las Vegas, has certainly seen her fair share of matrimonies! We a.m.-1 p.m. witness four of her funniest: Bev and Stan, who are getting married -- by the King himself -- as revenge on their exes; Vanessa and Bryce, two ar- Call 601-679-2504. rogant aging stars who are tying the knot as a publicity ploy, and are vexed by an aging Elvis who doesn’t know who they are. Also including Martin and Fiona, a gentle postal-worker and a tough ex-con trying to get married Administration Building 255, before the police arrive! However, the final wedding is the funniest all!

Performances will be presented Feb. 21-26 and will be directed by guest Suite 283 director Zena Limerick. For information call The Meridian Little Theatre at 601-482-6371 Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. or call 601-938-4447.

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. J.P. Falardeau Adam Prince Chaplain: 601-604-2015 supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Command Master 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- CMDCM Maurice Sutherland MC1 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 10, 2019 3 Toys for Tots returns, 1,800 toys collected for needy children From Staff Reports having the help of Marines with NAS Meridian meant a lot. Sgt. Demarckus Adams arrived at Marine Avia- “The Toys for Tots provides a fabulous amount tion Training Support Squadron One onboard Na- of toys for children of all ages in our community,” val Air Station Meridian nearly 18 months ago and Weems said. “We have donations from several plac- one of the first things he asked about was the Toys es but Toys for Tots has done a good job of bringing for Tots campaign. very good toys – things that any kid would enjoy to “Wherever I get stationed is a new home,” said have on Christmas morning.” Adams who is the Toys for Tots coordinator for Lau- Approximately 500 local needy children were derdale County. “And I want to show everyone else supported through the Wesley House’s Christmas that home matters.” program. So, after it was inactive for nine years, Adams “The most difficult gifts to provide for children revitalized the base’s Toys for Tots program, which are usually for the older children - the older girls donated more than 1,800 toys to the Wesley House and older boys. Even though we only go up to age Community Center Dec. 14 to be distributed to local 12, these kids are out of the Barbie doll and baby families in need. doll stage, so it’s a little more difficult to fill their Adams along with his assistant coordinator Sgt. bag with something that they’d want on Christmas Mykal Watt, coordinated the efforts working with morning,” Weems said. “So the donations that I’ve service members from all branches of the military seen in the Toys for Tots boxes so far have been fan- to set up donations at various community events tastic for those age groups.” and place boxes at local shopping centers, such as For Adams, the joy of presents on Christmas Submitted photo Wal-Mart, East Central Community College, Me- morning motivated the entire project, who thought Meridian Community College Campus Life Coordinator LeAnne ridian Community College and Navy Federal Cred- of his two-year-old daughter, Felicity. Motes, left, gathers new and unwrapped toys as Sgt. Demarckus it Union. “I hope Christmas morning looks the same way Adams collects them Dec. 10 as a part of the Marines Toys for “That’s the best thing that I could have asked it does for my daughter on Christmas morning - Tots campaign. The MCC campus community contributed the toys for,” Adams said. “When I reached out to the com- she’s just sitting there smiling, looking at mom and that will be distributed to less fortunate children at Christmas. munity, they were able to give back.” dad, saying, ‘Thank you,’ “ Adams said. “It doesn’t “This is a great help,” Adams, who is stationed at NAS Meridian, For Deana Weems, a therapist and forensic ex- matter if it’s one toy or 50 toys - it’s the fact that said as he picked up the donations. He noted colleges are aminer with the Wesley House Community Center, someone showed they cared about you.” generous in giving to Toys for Tots.

Seven aviators earn ‘Wings of Gold’ in December ceremony

There was a naval aviator designation ceremony Dec. 21, in the Chapel on board NAS Meridian. Seven U.S. Naval aviators received their “Wings of Gold” during the ceremony. The naval aviator designation ceremony is not prescribed specifically by U.S. Navy regulations, but has emerged as an honored prod- uct of the rich heritage of naval tradition. It marks the culmination of nearly two years of specialized training, which has prepared these officers for the rigorous de- mands 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

Anderson Bauer Evans Freitag Golden Stick Mississippi Council of the Navy League member Arjen Lagendijk, left, presents the Golden Stick award to Lt. Kennan Michael Healy during a winging ceremony at the chapel onboard NAS Meridian, Dec. 21. Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Healy Ma West

Public Works outstanding performers

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Photo by Jennifer Tabb Photo by Lea Giancola NAS Meridian Public Works Director Lt. Cmdr. Bryan Maes is presented is presented his Tim Jewell is presented his 10-year civilian Robert McCharen, right, presents John Lamberth 15-year civilian service certificate by Lt. service certificate by Lt. Cmdr. Robert with a plaque during a retirement ceremony. Cmdr. Robert McCharen. McCharen.

1000 days Kennedy Reenlistment

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Logistics Specialist 1st Class Robert Kennedy, right, accepts his reenlistment certificate from Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Food Service Officer Bill Jones at a reenlistment Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian Sailors pose for a group photo in the lobby of the Air Operation building ceremony in in the Administration building lobby onboard NAS Meridian, Dec. 13, after going 1,000 days without anyone onboard getting cited for driving onboard NAS Meridian, Dec. 19. Kennedy under the influence. reenlisted for six years. 4 The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 Shanahan named Acting Secretary of Defense By Jim Garamone for the department. “It is about the resources you put in Defense Media Activity place and the taskings and activities that those resources direct,” he said during a presentation to the Military Re- Acting Defense Secretary Patrick M. Shanahan will porters and Editors organization in October. use the National Defense Strategy as his blueprint mov- With that in mind, Shanahan said, the department’s ing forward, Pentagon officials said. chief financial officer, David Norquist, will perform the Shanahan took over for James N. Mattis on Jan. 1. duties of deputy defense secretary. The 2020 budget re- The acting secretary had served as the deputy defense quest is being finalized and will be presented to Congress secretary since July 2017. Before that, he was a senior ex- at the beginning of February. ecutive at the Boeing Co. As deputy secretary, Shanahan “As department of defense chief financial officer and was intimately involved with the development of the Na- comptroller for the past 19 months, David Norquist has tional Defense Strategy and the administration’s South had insight into virtually every tenet of this department,” Asia strategy. Shanahan said in a statement announcing the decision. Shanahan stressed the National Defense Strategy’s “I have the greatest confidence in his abilities to lead a importance during his first meeting with department of- phenomenally talented team while performing the duties ficials. The department’s transition from a counterinsur- as deputy secretary of defense.” gency strategy to one based on near-peer competition will The three lines of effort in the National Defense Strat- continue, he said. Shanahan told defense officials to em- egy will remain unchanged, Shanahan said: improving phasize “China, China, China.” lethality, maintaining and building strong alliances, and Russia and China are near-peer competitors to the reforming DOD business practices. United States not only militarily, but politically, diplo- The acting secretary has been involved in the three matically and economically. The Chinese, particularly, lines. He worked on the Nuclear Posture Review. He is see themselves as taking America’s place and instituting the point man for the department’s Space Working Group, their own rules-based architecture that would only benefit and the legislative proposal to establish a separate Space China. Force will be unveiled with the 2020 defense budget sub- The National Defense Strategy announced last year is mission. aimed at rebuilding U.S. military capabilities that were “The strategy in its most distilled form is about doing decimated by years of sequestration spending cuts, con- more,” Shanahan said last year just after the strategy was stant deployments and equipment overuse. It also is de- unveiled. “It’s about being more lethal, it’s about having signed to foster the capabilities needed to maintain Amer- more relationships, and it’s about being more affordable. ican pre-eminence into the future. When I’m sitting in the room with the staffs … thinking DoD Official Photo Shanahan has said many times that he is laser-focused about strategy, I’m really thinking about the person most Patrick M. Shanahan became the Acting Secretary of on operationalizing the defense strategy. Doing that, he downrange. It’s all about how do we make them more le- Defense on Jan. 1. Prior to this assignment, he served as has noted, requires the resources in place. He has called thal? How do we make their efforts easier? How do we the 33rd Deputy Secretary of Defense, appointed on July the fiscal year 2020 defense budget “the most significant” make them smarter, faster, stronger, better?” 19, 2017.

That old car smell “She served us lights stayed on; something about need- well for thirteen COLUMN ing an O2 sensor. Every time it rained, years,” I thought water dripped from the rearview mirror. wistfully, as my I tried stopping the leak by sealing the husband and I windshield, which only added flapping drove our 2005 duct tape to the myriad of embarrassing Sienna minivan to blemishes. The automatic sliding door had the local Carmax long stopped working, and the other door to trade her in last was missing its handle. She had logged week. Although her over 230,000 miles. It was definitely time. trusty engine still We parked our Sienna in the Carmax spun like a top, our lot, and waited at a desk for the sales as- family vehicle had sociate and mechanic to inspect the mini- too many prob- van. As I wondered what her fate would lems to ignore. be, I thought of my old yellow Schwinn Lisa Smith Molinari Passing another bicycle. state vehicle It was an elementary school birthday inspection would present. Pedal brakes, cruiser handlebars, have required a couple thousand dollars or yellow painted chrome — a real classic. I DARPA illustration a crooked mechanic, so we had decided to knew her so well, I could steer her using A Defense Advanced Research Products Agency illustration depicts DARPA’s upgrade. But I’d been with her so long, I only my bodyweight. I would stand on her Falcon Hypersonic Test Vehicle as it emerges from its rocket nose cone and had mixed emotions. pedals, stretch my arms out wide, and prepares to re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere. DARPA has conducted several test I remembered when we bought her coast from the top of the hill through the flights of the vehicle in recent years. while stationed in Virginia Beach. She curve in Chestnut Street without touching was slightly used, but sparkling white. the handlebars, with the wind in my hair, With only eight thousand miles on her listening to the cards snapping loudly on odometer, she still had that new car smell. her spokes. DOD scaling up effort I tried to keep her tidy, but she was soon Even though that beloved yellow sprinkled with dog hair, cold french fries, Schwinn had become my trusted friend, fruit snacks, and Polly Pockets. Her cup I eventually had to trade her in, just like holders were perpetually sticky, child car the minivan. to develop hypersonics seats were strapped into back seats, and “How much do you think we’ll get for the cargo area held folding chairs, Gato- the Swagger Wagon?” we’d asked friends. By David Vergun DOD is looking at air-breathing boost- rades, and smelly cleats for soccer and flag “I guess it depends on how much gas is Defense Media Activity glide hypersonics systems, the latter football games. Each of our carsick-prone left in her tank,” was the best answer we being used by China, Griffin said. The children took turns upchucking on her got. The Defense Department is looking United States has the boost-glide system upholstery. And our dog, Dinghy, once ate After speaking with the mechanics, the to step up its development of hypersonic competency to get these developed today, a dead fish on the beach and threw it up Carmax representative sat down at the weapons — missiles that travel more than he noted. in the backseat on the way home. By the desk and tapped numbers into a computer. five times faster than the speed of sound On the flip side, he said, the U.S. needs time we moved to Germany, that “new car “Mr. and Mrs. Molinari, there are sever- — DOD leaders said at the National De- to develop systems to counter adversary smell” had degraded into an unpleasant al significant problems with your van …” fense Industrial Association-sponsored hypersonics. The place to take them out sourness disguised by frequent applica- she went on with a laundry list of things “Hypersonics Senior Executive Series” is in their relatively long cruise phase, in tions of Febreeze. we already knew, “so are willing to offer here today. which they don’t change course suddenly. She braved speedy autobahns, winding you —“ She spun the monitor around so A Defense Advanced Research Products It’s not a particularly hard intercept, he mountain passes, and former communist that we could see what their algorithm Agency illustration depicts DARPA’s Fal- said, but it requires knowing they’re com- territories to deliver us to travel destina- had decided. con Hypersonic Test Vehicle as it emerges ing. Current radars can’t see far enough. tions all over Europe. When not on the There, in bold letters on a blue screen, from its rocket nose cone and prepares to “They need to see thousands of kilometers road, she waited faithfully outside our we read, “$400.” re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere. out, not hundreds,” Griffin said. military apartment, crusted with salt for We weren’t mad, we didn’t argue, we In the last year, China has tested more The Western Pacific is a particularly three long winters. A subsequent tour in didn’t shed tears — we cracked up laugh- hypersonics weapons than we have in a difficult area, he noted, because “it’s not the searing heat of Florida cracked her ing. decade,” said Michael Griffin, undersecre- littered with a lot of places to park radars, dashboard, but she logged thousands more We found it hilarious that our family tary of defense for research and engineer- and if you found some, they’d likely be- miles on her odometer during carpools, had used up so much of that minivan’s ing. “We’ve got to fix that.” come targets.” orthodontist appointments, piano lessons, value, she was nearly worthless. But Russia also is involved in hyperson- Space-based sensors, along with track- vacations, football games and cross coun- it was also comforting to know that the ics, Griffin said. “Hypersonics is a game ing and fire-control solutions, are needed try meets. memories we’d made while driving her changer,” he added. in the effort to counter adversaries’ hyper- For her last five years in Rhode Island, were truly priceless. If Russia were to invade Estonia or sonics, Griffin said, pointing out that hy- our minivan saw our three children Lisa Smith Molinari’s self syndicated columns appear on China were to attack Taiwan tomorrow, personics targets are 10 to 20 times dim- through high school and off to college her blog, www.themeatandpotatoesoflife.com and she Griffin said, it would be difficult tode- mer than what the U.S. normally tracks before giving in to age. Her headlights recently co-authored Stories Around the Table: Laughter, fend against their strike assets. “It’s not by satellites in geostationary orbit. “We turned hazy yellow. Her paint became a Wisdom, and Strength in Military Life Follow Lisa@ a space we want to stay in,” he told the can’t separate hypersonics defense from dull, dirty white. Her dashboard warning MolinariWrites. audience. the space layer,” he said. The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 5 Pvt. Julian Leaman Pvt. Velia Castaneda

MATSS-1 Student MATSS-1 Student Hometown: Smithfield, Va. OOORAH! Hometown: Las Cruces, N.M. Pvt. Leaman joined the Marine Corps Pvt. Castaneda joined the Marine Jan. 18, 2018. “I wanted to fight for Corps March 28, 2018. “I wanted to take my country and do it to the best of my on the challenge not many people are ability,” Leaman said. willing to take,” she said. He’s looking forward to learning and Her most memorable experience from improving throughout his career. “I boot camp happened right at the end. “I want to progress through the ranks remember being dismissed by my senior while keeping hold of my personal drill instructor, and -- in that moment -- values; as well as the Marine Corps core it hit me that I was now a United States values,” he said. Marine,” Castaneda said. After graduation, Leaman is excited She hopes to receive orders to Hawaii to see the world. “I’d like to go overseas after graduation. “My brother, Cpl. Felix or out west,” he said. “Finding new Castaneda, is stationed in Hawaii, and I opportunities always help drive me to think it would be a great experience,” she learn new things.” said.

Island Marauder demo puts new technology to the test By Monique Randolph second week of VIP demonstrations. Most of the tactical Marines on how to use new equipment, Moncrief said. Marine Corps Systems Command command and control—or C2—capability was integrated “This year, we brought in some other MCSC programs into a battlefield network controlled through the 3rd Ma- that have a direct relationship with NOTM,” he said. “For For the last three years, engineers and project officers rines’ Networking-on-the-Move Systems. NOTM is a vehi- example, the project officer for Identity Dominance Sys- from Marine Corps Systems Command have descended on cle-mounted satellite communication system that extends tems-Marine Corps recognized early on that NOTM could the island of Oahu to put new technology to the test. C2 for commanders and their staffs while on the move and be a game changer for that program.” In the fall, MCSC—along with Marines from the 3rd beyond line of site at the tactical edge. “When Marines downrange encounter a person of in- Marine Regiment and partner organizations from the re- Developed by MCSC, NOTM has been fielded to all three terest, they use IDS-MC to collect biometric data,” said quirements community—conducted the “Island Marauder” Marine Expeditionary Forces. Teresa Sedlacek, lead engineer for Identity Operations at technology demonstration to integrate and evaluate emerg- “One of the powerful elements of the Island Marauder MCSC. ing technologies with existing Marine Corps gear to help demonstration is a challenging tactical scenario that re- Typically, Marines then have to get to a forward op- inform future capability decisions for the Corps. quires insertion of new technology and warfighting ap- erating base or Combat Operations Center to download “We conducted the Island Marauder technology demo to proaches while using currently-fielded equipment and fleet the information to receive feedback on submissions, she see if mature but leading edge command and control tech- Marine operators,” Moncrief said. “The 3rd Marine Regi- said. During Island Marauder, the demonstration team nologies work when we integrate them with our fielded sys- ment gives us extremely useful information during Island successfully connected IDS-MC wirelessly with NOTM, tems,” said Basil Moncrief, Networking-on-the-Move team Marauder that influences engineering, sustainment and which enabled them to receive data retrieval and feedback leader at MCSC. “We also wanted to see what fleet Marines user interface. This, in turn, assists HQMC with advanced almost immediately. thought about the emerging technology. [Island Marauder] concepts and out-year planning.” “That’s the kind of thing that’s important to us on the helps Headquarters Marine Corps and the Marine Corps During one demo, Marines on the ground used NOTM to Island Marauder Team because it improves combat ca- Tactics and Operations Group validate that the emerging simulate calling in air strikes and a medical evacuation— pability for other programs and for the Marine operating technology supports or enhances the latest warfighting tac- a feat that had not been successfully performed with live forces,” Moncrief said. tics and strategies they want to pursue.” aircraft in past demonstrations. Other programs and technologies that were part of the Is- The demonstration included one week of intensive, Island Marauder also enables MCSC to perform integra- land Marauder demonstration included the Secure Tacti- hands-on field engineering and system integration, and a tion engineering, troubleshoot any related issues and train cal Terminal and secure wireless networking techniques.

Camp Hansen, Okinawa USS Kearsarge

Photo by Lance Cpl. Tanner Lambert Photo by Lance Cpl. Tawanya Norwood Cpl. Chancelor J. Kelso, a scout sniper team leader with Weapons Company, Marine Corps Sgt. Nicole Turner uses a SEEK-II biometrics device to take a photo of Battalion Landing Team, 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, posts security during Sgt. Brittney Warf while training aboard the USS Kearsarge in the 6th Fleet area of reconnaissance and surveillance training at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, Dec. 12. operations, Jan. 2. Safety & Energy Efficiency is Our Duty 6 The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019

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 P.C. Golf Course 679-2526 Liberty Center 679-3760 Rudders Pub & Grill 679-2780 MWR Admin. 679-2551 Tickets 679-3773 CDC/CDH 679-2652 MWR Jobs Line 679-2467 McCain Rec Center 679-2651 SAC 679-5252 Equipment Rental 679-2609 SLO 679-2473

Coming Coming Attractions NAS Meridian Attractions McCain Rec McCain Rec Center ACT Workshop Center Thursday, January 10 Friday, January 18 5 p.m., The Sandlot, PG February 2 • 0900-1500 • Room 265 (Admin Building #255) 5 p.m., Aladdin, G 7 p.m., Night School, PG13 7 p.m., Mid90s, R Agenda Friday, January 11 Workbook Overview • ACT Format • Content for English, Reading, Math and Science Saturday, January 19 5 p.m., The House with a Clock..., PG Time Management and Pacing • Practice Tests • Understanding Your Score 1 p.m., Captain Underpants, PG 7 p.m., The Hate U Give, PG13 5 p.m., Nobody’s Fool, R 7 p.m., Mid90s, R Saturday, January 12 The ACT is the leading college admissions test to determine academic readiness for post-secondary education. There is a direct correlation between scores and college 1 p.m., Goosebumps 2, PG admission/scholarship opportunities for students. Research indicates that students who attend Sunday, January 20 5 p.m., Hunter Killer, R face-to-face test preparatory workshops score an average of two points higher than those who do not. 1 p.m., Brave, PG 7 p.m., The Hate U Give, PG13 5 p.m., Can You Ever Forgive Me?, R The School Liaison Officer will offer a free ACT Workshop for high school students with base access. 7 p.m., Nobody’s Fool, R Sunday, January 13 The pre-registration deadline for this workshop is Wednesday, January 23. All workshop supplies, 1 p.m., The Sandlot, PG refreshments and lunch will be provided. Your child will need to bring a personal calculator. Monday, January 21 5 p.m., Night School, PG13 5 p.m., Chicken Run, PG 7 p.m., Hunter Killer, R For additional info, or to register, please call (601) 679-2473. 7 p.m., First Man, PG13 Monday, January 14 Tuesday, January 22 5 p.m., Brave, PG 5 p.m., Finding Dory, PG 7 p.m., Can You Ever Forgive Me?, R 7 p.m., Halloween (2018), R Tuesday, January 15 Wednesday, January 23 5 p.m., Aladdin, G 5 p.m., Boss Baby, PG 7 p.m., Mid90s, R 7 p.m., A Star is Born, R Wednesday, January 16 Thursday, January 24 5 p.m., Captain Underpants, PG 5 p.m., Chicken Run, PG 7 p.m., Nobody’s Fool, R 7 p.m., First Man, PG13 Thursday, January 17 Friday, January 25 5 p.m., Brave, PG 5 p.m., Finding Dory, PG 7 p.m., Can You Ever Forgive Me?, R 7 p.m., Halloween (2018), R navymwrmeridian.com The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 7

Christmas Crafting

The Society helps Sailors and Marines prepare financially for the baby’s arrival through informative workshops.

LEARN: ELIGIBILITY: Strategies for making good financial decisions. Information Active Duty or Retired Sailors and about benefits, pay entitlements and tax implications of Marines Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat parenthood. Where to find local resources and programs that also Eligible Family Members Master-at-Arms 1st Class Samuel Shipley, right, crafts a Christmas tree with his son at provide assistance for families with newborns. How to Reservist on extended Active Duty of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian Children’s Holiday Party in the McCain Recreation schedule an appointment for free, personalized family 30 days or more financial counseling to help adjust to increased costs of a Center onboard NAS Meridian, Dec. 13. The event was hosted by the Coalition of new family member. Sailors Against Destructive Decisions with support from the Morale, Welfare and A SPECIAL GIFT Recreation department. Every participant gets a Junior Sea Bag filled with gifts and a baby blanket made by a Society Volunteer (valued at $80) Sale... Or

BOATS/CAMPERS/TRAILERS miles 96cc Screaming Ea- 2005 Honda TRX250EX Owner is relocating for NAS; pets allowed with de- with bonus room over gle Engine. Excellent con- four wheeler $1,600; job will consider leasing, posit. $1,200 per month; the garage. Clarkdale 2017 Keystone Ava- dition. Asking $10,500. 2002 Yamaha TTR-125L open to all offerings. Call $1,000 deposit with op- school district (ranked #1 lanche 365MB (5th Call 601-527-4981. dirt bike $800; and 2006 601-686-0277. tion for 3-year lease at within local area). Asking wheel) motor home. 2010 Polaris Ranger 50SX-F dirt bike $2,200. For Rent: 3BD/2BA $1,100 per month. Call $374,000. Call 601-723- Sleeps eight; great living 800XP Browning Edi- All in good shape ready to home; available Dec. 31. 334-654-0571. 0741 for a private show- quarters; includes cables, tion, camo color. roof, go. Overseas move forc- Big yard; Nice front porch; For Sale: 3 BD/2 BA ing. hoses and septic lines. windshield, winch, extra ing sale. Make offer ready hardwood floors. Rent: Ranch style home in MISCELLANEOUS Asking $49k. Call 586- set of wheels/tires, and to deal! Call Ben at 843- $1055/month with water Northeast School dis- 899-6429. dual gun scabbard. Ask- 597-4221. and garbage included. trict; less than 10 minutes Two Black storage 2018 Mallard M185 ing $7,800. Call Pete at AUTOMOBILES, ETC. Deposit (military discount) from NAS. Hardwood trucks all brass closures; Travel Trailer. Sleeps 4 601-678-3458. and references required. floors, new metal roof in $10 each. Call 601-482- with 1 queen bed/2 bunks. 2013 Harley David- 2017 Camaro Gen6, Less than one mile from quiet neighborhood. Ask- 2276. Easy to tow at 3,575 lbs; son Switchback, Asking 4k miles, 50th anniver- NAS. Call 601-480-1324 ing $160k. Call 601-454- Woman’s Converse only selling because mili- $8,000; only one owner; sary limited addition; like- or 601-917-4134. 4990. Composite Toe Trainer tary member is moving still under warranty; all new condition. $38,500. For Sale: 3 BD/1 BA For Sale: 4BD/3.5BA Safety Shoe Size 10, overseas. Great living maintenance done by Call 601-686-1027. home on Edgewood Dr. in Lakefront home in Scham- brand new in box, $65. quarters with lake view. Harley Davidson. Call 2012 Honda Civic, Meridian. Asking $33,500. berville Estates. Lots of White with gray & teal Hooked up and ready to 505-658-1675. 47k miles, $9,200. Call Call 601-880-1168. amenities, including up- trim. Call Teresa 601-616- live in, including cables, 1982 Harley Davidson 601-490-3835. For Rent: 3 BD/2 BA stairs 4th BD w/ full BA 9251 (Please no calls af- hoses, septic lines, plus FLHS, 80 C.I. Shovel- HOMES/APARTMENTS home in Collinsville. Lo- that could be bonus room ter 8 p.m.) the $500 towing kit. Ask- head Engine w/4-Speed cated in West Lauder- and three-acre peninsula ing $17,000. Call 360- Transmission. Nice An- New! For Sale: dale School District. Call lot boasts appx 1,000 ft. To submit an item to the 434-3035 tique Bike -- just can’t ride 3BD/3BA, spacious home Joseph at 504-421-8757 of shoreline. Call Jenny “Sale...Or” column, e-mail MOTORCYCLES/GEAR/ATV anymore. Call 601-527- 15 minutes from NAS, or email at Petersjo- Ziemba at 601-480-5969 [email protected]. 9756/601-986-8378 quiet neighborhood, 424 [email protected]. or 601-282-5261. Deadline is the Thursday prior to 2010 Ultra Classic 2004 Honda TRX450R Windover Circle, 2900 ft. For Rent: 3 BD/2 BA For Sale: 4 BD/3.5 BA, publication. Harley Davidson 29K four wheeler $2,600; Call for private showing. home 15 minutes from Spacious lake front home

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 Advertising or email: [email protected] 8 The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 Things you probably didn’t know about the Pentagon By Claudette Roulo for a desegregated building of its size. DoD News, Defense Media Activity It was constructed in record time. More than 15,000 workers were on site around Why is the Pentagon, you know, a pen- the clock, and wartime office space shortag- tagon? The land the Pentagon was first es meant that workers moved in before the planned to go on was bordered on five sides Pentagon was fully finished. Construction by roads, so the architects designed a five- finished on Jan. 15, 1943, just 16 months sided building. President Franklin Delano after it started. Speed costs money, though: Roosevelt was worried putting the building Initially budgeted at $35 million, the final at that location would interfere with the cost was $63 million, more than $900 mil- view of Washington from Arlington Cem- lion in today’s money. etery, so he chose to move it to its present The same guy oversaw construction of location, but he kept the five-sided design. the Pentagon and the atomic bomb. Col. Sept. 11 has a double significance for Leslie Groves, an Army Corps of Engineer the Pentagon. Builders broke ground for officer, took charge of the Pentagon’s con- the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 1941, exactly 60 struction in August 1941. He worked six years before the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist at- days a week in his office in Washington. tacks. Then on Sundays, he would visit the project The Pentagon is big. Reallllly big. It’s he felt most needed his personal attention. the world’s largest low-rise office building. Groves later said of his time at the Penta- The entire U.S. Capitol building could fit gon that he was “hoping to get to a war the- inside any of the building’s five wedges. It ater so I could find a little peace.” Instead, has 6,500,000 square feet of office space he was assigned to direct the Manhattan (three times the floor space in the Empire Project – America’s effort to build an atomic State Building!), 7,754 windows and 17 1/2 bomb. miles of corridors. Yet, its spoke-and-ring For a while, there was a secret crash pad DoD archival photo design means it takes only about 7 minutes in the Pentagon. Grove was widely known The Pentagon to walk between the furthest two points in as a tough boss. One of his deputies, Army the building. Maj. Robert Furman, had to be at the Pen- The builders were frugal with their ma- move between floors. The ramps are still port and blast-resistant windows helped to tagon at all hours of the day and night. terials. During construction, the builders there, but the rumors of office chair races keep the building damage to a minimum, Sometimes he’d go days without going were able to conserve enough steel to build are greatly exaggerated. likely saving additional lives. home at all. In order to get some sleep, Fur- a battleship. And the 689,000 tons of sand That renovation project? It probably The Pentagon was the first desegre- man had the Pentagon contractors build a and gravel used to make the building’s rein- saved thousands of lives. The Pentagon is gated building in Virginia. The Pentagon secret apartment between the walls of what forced concrete – including 41,000 concrete divided into five wedges, and the renovation was designed when segregation was the would become the Army’s Ordnance Divi- pilings – came from the nearby Potomac project was going wedge by wedge when law in Virginia. But Roosevelt had signed sion. He and some of Grove’s other deputies River. terrorists flew American Airlines Flight an executive order the previous year, which would use the apartment to grab a few z’s, Until 2011, there was only one passen- 77 into the Pentagon, Sept. 11, 2001, kill- forbade discrimination against government shower and get back to work. Furman con- ger elevator in the Pentagon. And it was ing 189 people. The plane hit in Wedge 3, workers on the basis of race, creed, color or tinued to use the apartment on official trips reserved for the defense secretary. where renovations had just completed, but national origin. So the Pentagon became back to Washington while he served as an A 17-year-long renovation project that fin- only about 800 out of the 4,500 people who the only building in Virginia where segre- intelligence officer on the Manhattan Proj- ished in 2011 saw 70 passenger elevators normally would have been working there gation was not enforced. Because segrega- ect, but was forced to hand over the keys in installed in the building. Until then, people had moved back into their offices. And the tion was state law, the Pentagon was built 1943 when he was discovered by ordnance who couldn’t use stairs used long ramps to new sprinkler system, extra structural sup- with twice as many bathrooms as needed officers while leaving the apartment.

=Winging a Lt. j.g. Mari Boyle Freitag, USN, earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Those earning wings include: Advanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George a Lt. j.g. Michael Martin Anderson, USN, was named to the Commodore’s List during H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Nov. 10. Freitag completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Train- Primary Flight Training and earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced ing Squadron Seven. Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush a Lt. Kennan Michael Healy, USN, was named to the Commodore’s List during Primary (CVN 77) Nov. 9. Anderson completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squad- Flight Training and was VT-7’s Student of the Quarter for the Fourth Quarter of 2018. ron Seven. During Advanced Jet Flight Training he earned three Navy “E’s” for bombing accuracy. He a Lt. j.g. Brian James Bauer, USN, was named to the Commodore’s List during Primary carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Nov. 10. Healy Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Seven. (CVN 77) Nov. 10. Bauer completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron a Lt. Han Ma, USN, was named to the Commodore’s List during Primary Flight Training. Seven. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Nov. 10. a Lt. j.g. Jacob Nathaniel Evans, USN, was selected for E-2/C-2 and underwent Multi-En- Ma completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Seven. gine Training in Corpus Christi, Texas, before beginning training in Meridian. Evans will aLt. j.g. Baron Grant West, USN, earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Ad- be continuing training in Norfolk, Virginia and will fly either the E-2 Hawkeye or the C-2 vanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George Greyhound. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Nov. 9. West completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training 77) Dec. 8. Evans completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. Squadron Seven.

the Meridian Star

Congratulations Honoring Outstanding Patti U. Christopher Teachers and Educators October 2018 in East Mississippi and Teacher of the Month West Alabama Patrician Academy

LaBiche Jewelers - Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company 194723-1 To nominate a teacher, log on to wmdn.net, wgbctv.com, goldenappleawards.com or meridianstar.com The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 9

This week we asked: “What is your New Year’s Resolution?” IT’S YOUR TURN... By MC1 Chris Liaghat

Lt. Jermaine Jemmott Al Lewis CMC Maurice Sutherland Jon Cole Anita Lee Administration Officer Security Officer Command Master Chief MWR Director School Liaison Officer “To ensure all military “To have a closer walk with “To get everyone out of the “To have a non-committal “I’m going to more closely members receive their 2.6% our Lord and savior, and to blueberries and into the 2019.” monitor my spending.” pay raise as authorized be more of a helper; than a NWU type III uniform.” by the President of the hinder.” United States.” Fleet & Family Support Center A fresh look on a new year FFSC Briefs The new year is a time for reflection on our accom- people is their ability to create a positive mental picture To register for any of the following workshops, plishments—both personally and professionally—in the of themselves accomplishing their goals! In other words, please call the FFSC at 601-679-2360. The class one just gone by. It is also a time to set new goals. Unfor- we can get bogged down in the details and lose sight of may not be presented if no one registers, so make tunately, the goals set in January often become Febru- the big picture. sure you call if you’re interested! Can’t make ary’s broken promises. To avoid getting stuck in a pattern So if your goal is weight loss, you should first con- the scheduled time? Call anyway - the workshop of setting resolutions that are doomed to fail year after sciously develop a mental picture of how you will look, facilitator may be able to work with you one-on- year, try a new approach this year. feel and behave once you’ve reached your ideal weight. one, give you materials, or let you know when Since the new year signifies a period of renewal, begin That image will then be what you strive for rather than the class will be offered again. All classes held at with a fresh outlook. We frequently are critical solely focusing on the bathroom scale notches. FFSC (Building 405) unless otherwise noted of ourselves as we set New Year’s resolu- It’s common for human beings to stub- tions. By doing so, we start off on the bornly try the same approaches time and wrong foot by sending a negative time again to reach a goal. That’s com- Sexual Assault Victim Advocate message to ourselves. Is it no won- mendable. However, new approaches Training der that we then fail to live up to are often what ultimately makes Jan. 14-18 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. our own harsh, and often unreal- the difference. While there are no The Sexual Assault Prevention and istic, expectations? guarantees you will be successful, Start off by taking time to re- consider trying a new angle on Response Program (SAPR) is seeking flect on your accomplishments New Year’s resolutions. Don’t nominees from Commands to serve from the past year. Even the waste time waiting for inspira- in the important and pivotal role of smallest of successes count. If it tion. Begin, and the inspiration was a difficult year, give yourself will follow! SAPR Victim Advocate. DOD 6495.02 credit for surviving it. Do count requires a 24-hour, 7-day a week your blessings. There always is Here are a few suggestions to help sexual assault response capability for someone less fortunate than yourself. you enjoy the gift of life more: all military installations. SAPR Victim Set goals for yourself a Take up a new hobby. Advocates (VAs) are trained to meet a Experience more sunrises and sunsets. this requirement. Victim Advocates’ Then, why not focus upon one primary goal? Make a a Turn off the TV. core responsibilities include: *Providing commitment to yourself to enjoy your life more. That’s a Write more letters (preferably by hand rather than right. Rather than begrudgingly telling yourself once e-mail). victims with an empathetic guide through again that, “this is the year I will go on another diet and a Volunteer (we do receive by giving to others). the medical, legal and investigative lose those 20 pounds,” perhaps a more positive approach a Eat by candlelight as often as possible. procedures; *Minimizing the possibility is to set a goal of changing your attitude about your life. a Let children teach you how to really play and laugh that victims will be re-victimized by This way, you will make lifestyle changes that will ulti- again. mately help you lose weight and keep it off for life! a Make something with your own hands. medical, judicial and military systems; Certainly it is important to set goals in specific terms a Go on more picnics. *Avoiding duplication of advocacy efforts and have a step-by-step plan by which to accomplish a Give yourself a compliment every day. by using effective programs already in a those goals. Yet researchers also have found that one of Slow down and, oh yes, smell the roses. place. Victim Advocates are volunteers the most important characteristics common to successful --From FFSC willing to be on call and available to respond to a sexual assault. VAs must participate in a minimum of 40 hours of initial training and obtain national January Pet Emergency Preparedness Month certification as a Sexual Assault Victim Advocate. The training serves to provide well-informed, sympathetic support, to minimize further trauma by preparing victims for interviews and examinations, and to ensure victim safety. A highly responsible individual is sought for this duty due to the potential for harm if discretion and good judgment are not utilized. Please provide names to Diana Shields, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, 601-679-2360 or email [email protected].

Transition GPS Seminar Jan. 28 – Feb. 1 from 8 a.m-4:30 p.m. Military personnel who are voluntarily or involuntarily separating or retiring and are within 180 days of separating are required to attend this seminar, held at the FFSC. It is highly recommended that spouses attend. You may also When you’re working on emer- and-rescues sheltering in place at home) gency preparedness for your fam- • Manual can opener. attend if you’re up to 24 months away ily. Don’t’ forget to include plans for Finding lost pets: • Bowls for food and water from your separation or retirement the furry and feathered members of If you and your pet get separated • Extra collar with ID tag, harness- date. The following topics will be your household- your pets (not your during an emergency. es and leashes covered: résumés, job search skills, spouse). • Post your pet’s information on the • A recent photo of you and your pet Start off the year by learning how websites for lost pets, such as: • Copies of vaccination records, reg- job interviewing, employment (state to keep your pets safe in an emergen- www.thecenterforlostpets.com istration and adoption papers, etc., in & federal), veterans’ benefits, pay & cy situation. • Contact your local humane soci- a waterproof container. travel, movement of household goods, ety to locate shelters that might have • Cat litter box, extra litter and a TRICARE, emotional transition to Be prepared: taken in your pet, and visit those litter scooper • Create an evacuation plan for shelters daily: www.humanesociety. • Your pet’s medication (2-weeks separation, financial planning, forms your family that includes your pet. org/about/state supply) and a copy of his or her cur- & documents, benefits & services, For guidelines, visit: www.ready.gov/ rent prescriptions military obligations, and more. You must evacuating-yourself-and-your-family Build an emergency kit: • First aid items recommended by • Order a free pet safety pack, which Prepare your pet’s emergency your veterinarian see your command career counselor includes a window decal to alert res- supply kit. Store the following items • Pet carrier or crate or Admin Officer before attending cue workers that a pet is inside your somewhere they can be accessed • Comfort items (toys, betting, etc., Transition GPS to obtain several home, at: www.aspca.org/form/free- quickly, and rotate food items into to help reduce stress for your pet) documents that are required for the pet-safety-pack use so they get replaced with fresh Know what to do before, during, • Search for local shelters and res- food every two months. and after a disaster, by visiting: www. seminar. cue groups on Petfinder: • Food and water (3-day supply for ready.gov/animals www.petfinder.com/animal-shelters- evacuating and 2-week supply for --From NAS Meridian Emergency Management 10 The Skyline ~ January 10, 2019 Command Quarters Safety Standdown

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Comedian Steve Verret performs for Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian military and civilian employees in the Navy Operational Support Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Center auditorium onboard NAS Meridian, Jan. 3. Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian Sailors received awards during the monthly command quarters at the Air During the performance, Verret gave traffic safety Operations building onboard NAS Meridian, Dec. 13. Presented during the ceremony were two frocking training as part of the annual NAS Meridian Safety letters, two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Stand Down. Audience members were broken into Medals, three Sailor of the Quarter plaques, one Air Traffic Controller of the Month award and ten special two teams and given points for knowledge and liberty certificates to the winners of the Command Winter Olympics, Team Wonder Bread. enthusiasm.

Security Promotion Love’s Donation

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Submitted photo Security Officer Lt. Barion Haywood, Capt. Tyrone Johnson, Capt. Larry OS2 Felicia Newson, left, assists SH2 Tawanda Johnson, with delivery of Vanlue and Deputy Security Officer Bruce Rutledge pose for a group photo donated items to Lauderdale Outreach and Volunteer Effort Inc., also known as following a promotion ceremony in the Navy Operational Support Center LOVE’s Kitchen in December. Johnson, an NTTC Meridian “A” school instructor onboard Naval Air Station Meridian, Jan. 7. During the ceremony Johnson and voluntarily raised and donated $2,000 worth of tents, sleeping bags, hygiene Vanlue were promoted to the rank of Captain. products, under garments and blankets to LOVE’s Kitchen.

the Meridian Star

Congratulations Honoring Outstanding Tim Caldwell Teachers and Educators December 2018 in East Mississippi and Teacher of the Month West Alabama West Lauderdale High School

LaBiche Jewelers - Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Company 194728-1 To nominate a teacher, log on to wmdn.net, wgbctv.com, goldenappleawards.com or meridianstar.com