Volume 65, Issue 07 July 2012

CORPORATE SPONSORS July 10 Luncheon Speaker ó Vigor Shipyards Captain Charles Baker

ó Concurrent Technologies Corp aptain Baker is one of our favorite C people and we have hoped to have COMMUNITY AFFILIATES him share his stories with us for a long time. Captain Baker is the Commanding ó Air Management Solutions Officer of Naval Intermediate ó AMI International Maintenance Facility Pacific Northwest ó Concurrent Technologies Corp (NAVIMFPACNORWEST) at Bangor. ó EJB Facilities Services This 1700 person command is responsible for the maintenance and modernization ó Evergreen Transfer & Storage of the Pacific Fleet’s SSBN force. ó First Command Financial The Bangor site operates refit, piers, Planning, Inc. repair shops and a drydock located in ó FMA Chapter 14 the homeports of , ships, and ó Kitsap Sun aircraft carriers in the Pacific Northwest. ó Land Title Company Bangor has expertise in hull, mechanical, electrical, electronics, and weapons on the USS MCKEE (AS 41), USS SIMON ó Military Air Cargo systems repair: continually responding LAKE (AS 37), USS EMORY LAND (AS ó National Center for Manufacturing to meet the fleet’s maintenance and 39) and as Chief Engineer on the USS Sciences repair needs with on-time, cost-effective Nimitz (CVN 68). He has had ashore ó Navy Federal Credit Union and quality service. responsibilities in Groton, Connecticut, ó Pacific NW Defense Coalition Below is a bit of information about Point Loma in San Diego, California and Captain Baker and how his previous Guantanamo, Cuba. ó Patriots Landing assignments and training have helped to Captain Baker is authorized to wear ó Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems make him successful now. the Meritorious Service Medal (4), ó Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort Captain Baker enlisted in the Navy Navy Commendation Medal (4), the ó TriWest Healthcare Alliance in 1976 and completed Naval Nuclear Navy Achievement Medal and various ó Veterans United Home Loans Power training in 1978. While enlisted individual unit and service awards. He he completed sea tours on USS THOMAS earned a Master’s Degree in International ó Wave Broadband JEFFERSON (SSBN 618) and the USS Business from University of San Diego, LONG BEACH (CGN 9). Ashore he California in 2004. NEW MEMBERS was an instructor at the Nuclear Power For luncheon reservations for Training Unit, Idaho Falls, Idaho. He Tuesday, July 10, please email Roni Lane ó Jon Jordan was commissioned in 1987. at [email protected] or call 360 692-3856 at ó Sharon Jordan As a commissioned officer, he served ext 7002. ó Barry Loonan ó Heather Medema Contact Roni Lane, Veterans United Home Loans ó Jammahl Sims ó Michael Talpa for lunch reservations. Email [email protected] ó Tonya Taylor or call 360-692-3856 x 7002 (see page 2)

NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us 1 President’s Message Notes on SEALS t our recent need to perform their duties, and the from Jack James, A r e g i o n a l types of schooling that they take on a meeting in Portland regular basis. Our tours and monthly former SEAL and luncheons are a perfect opportunity for we were asked accomplishing this objective. Speaker at our how Navy League We can keep current regarding could help the large legislation on certification issues, May Luncheon number of returning veterans find jobs. educational opportunities, veteran r. James asked that the Ken Sparks and Pete Stiles of Lake preference issues and the many other following information be Washington Council presented enough issues that are being discussed by having M information for us to realize that there our legislators or their aides talk with our passed on to our members. are no easy answers to a very complex members and provide us with material challenge. But this challenge demands to share or by attending meetings and 1. There are no Active Duty our attention as thousands of men and then sharing those discussions with our SEALS stationed at any of our local women will soon be leaving the military members. Installations. However Teams do because of the drawdown and looking for We can share the great articles found deploy here to train fairly routinely. new employment. We need to consider in Seapower magazine with neighbors how we can help. and friends. We can share these ideas Additionally, there is a Naval Special As members of Navy League, we can with the other organizations to which we Warfare (SEAL) cold weather training help tell the story of our active duty belong and develop a strong ripple effect detachment in Kodiak, Alaska. people and their families. that can make a real difference. We can help educate potential The above ideas are part of our employers about what people in today’s mission statement and goals. The good 2. In regards to the issue of military are really doing. As they news is that we are already doing them, “stolen valor” if anyone would like develop excellent leadership skills in but now we need to be more focused on a name check on a BUD/S training diverse environments. We can show delivering the message that our current graduate, please call or e-mail them the types of complex equipment military are strong, well trained and will that they maintain and operate, the be an asset to the workforce and the local Jack James at 360 315-5991 or types of communication skills that they community. [email protected].

PSNS and IMF Background Keeping America’s Navy #1 in the World he history of the Puget Sound Naval era of new construction with the building solidated into one maintenance activity- T Shipyard and the Intermediate of a new class of guided missile frigates. creating PSNS and IMF. The consolida- Maintenance Facility reflects the USS SCULPIN (SSN 590) was the first tion improves fleet readiness by allowing constantly changing need for global nuclear powered worked on at the Navy to accomplish the highest prior- readiness. During World War I, the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in 1965. ity, real-time ship maintenance require- ments while achieving the most mainte- Navy Yard constructed ships, including In 1990, the U.S. Navy authorized a program to recycle nuclear powered nance effort possible for the tax dollar. 25 subchasers, seven submarines, two ships at PSNS. Approximately 6% of the The Northwest Regional Maintenance minesweepers, seven sea-going tugs, Shipyard’s workload involves inactiva- Center as it is now called, is one of the few and two ammunition ships, as well as tion, reactor compartment disposal, and regions that can provide maintenance 1,700 small boats. During WWII, the recycling of ships. The Shipyard has pio- for every class of Navy Vessel. The shar- Shipyard’s primary effort was the quick neered an environmentally safe method ing of expertise and resources between repair of battle damage to ships of the of deactivating and recycling nuclear- the Bremerton and Bangor sites provides U.S. Fleet and those of the Allies. powered ships. This process places the the Navy with a streamlined approach to Following WWII, the Shipyard U.S. Navy in the role of being the world’s maintenance and allows for the savings to engaged in an extensive program of mod- only organization to design, build, oper- be reinvested in the fleet. ernizing carriers, including converting ate, and recycle nuclear powered ships. PSNS and IMF is one of Washington conventional flight decks to angle decks. On May 15, 2003 Puget Sound Naval State’s largest industrial installations. During the Korean Conflict, the Shipyard Shipyard and the Naval Intermediate This information is primarily from was engaged in the activation of ships. In Facility, Pacific Northwest, located at the website of the Naval Sea Systems the late 1950’s, the Shipyard entered an Bangor, Bremerton and Everett, WA con- Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C.

2 NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us Cmdr Erik Neal Receives “Disability Champion” Award for Work with Wounded Warriors mdr. Erik Neal, Chief Staff C Officer, Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Keyport, was recognized as a Disability Champion at the 2012 Disability Matters Awards in Newark, N.J., April 18. Neal has been a stand-out in the Navy community for his groundbreak- ing work helping dozens of Wounded Warriors find employment at NUWC Keyport and other Naval Sea Systems (NAVSEA) commands. This has been beneficial not only for Wounded War- riors and their families but for the commands that hire former military personnel who bring their experience, knowledge and commitment to the federal workplace. In his letter of recommendation discharged. Among those he credits eases their transitions to civilian life,” endorsing Neal’s selection, Vice Adm. with the success of NUWC Keyport’s said Lt. Col. Jason Wing, , Kevin McCoy, Commander, NAVSEA, efforts and believes are equally deserv- Joint Base Lewis-McChord’s Warrior pointed out that Neal not only helps ing of the award are Carol Blakeley Transition Battalion. “With a major- find employment for Wounded War- with the region’s Human Resources ity of our ill, injured and wounded sol- riors but even volunteered at the Service Center and Carlos de la Torre diers leaving the Army, his support in Second Annual Warrior Games held at with NUWC Keyport’s Workforce Ser- making their transitions successful is the Olympic Training Center in Colo- vices Division. invaluable.” rado last May. “Helping Wounded Warriors find This is the first year that the Dis- “His enthusiasm for Wounded career opportunities is the least we can ability Champion award has been Warriors is contagious and he has do for our seriously wounded, ill and given. The award was presented at been instrumental in exceeding the injured service members that have sac- the Sixth Annual Disability Matters Wounded Warrior hiring goals set for rificed so much in the defense of our Awards Banquet and Conference in NUWC Keyport,” McCoy said. He nation,” according to Neal. “I feel it Newark, N.J. also commended Neal’s work with the is my duty to do everything within my Nominees were judged based on Joint Base Lewis-McChord Army War- authority to assist them. They deserve the following criteria: influences rior Transition Battalion, the Depart- nothing less.” and empowers others, serves as a role ment of Defense Operation Warfighter Neal has also located internship model for change, is continually learn- Program, Navy Safe Harbor and the opportunities for soldiers in the War- ing, cultivates the inclusion of people U.S. Marine Corps’ Wounded Warrior rior Transition Battalion at Joint Base with disabilities, innovates and takes Regiment at Camp Lejeune. Lewis-McChord. risks, holds themselves and others “He is gifted with a natural net- “Cmdr. Neal’s recognition is accountable for disability, and exter- working ability,” according to McCoy. extremely well-deserved. His work in nal leadership involvement. Neal has worked extensively putting our soldiers into naval intern- with Department of Defense human ships gives them training in market- Silvia Klatman Public Affairs Officer resources professionals to find oppor- able skills, work experience and net- Naval Undersea Warfare Center tunities for interns and those being working in a new career field, and Division, Keyport

NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us 3 USS Bremerton Visits Bremerton he beginning of several days of Later that day the first of 3 daily crew went to the local Veteran’s Home T fun was at 5:30 AM on Friday tours began, arranged by the Navy to help with wheelchair escort duty when the telephone rang with CDR League. We had many former subma- as part of the Community Relations Caleb Kerr letting us know that riners, defense workers, Navy Leagu- program. Tours again at 1. The Navy they were coming in and were about ers and patriotic civilians who were League President, Carolyn Dankers, 5 miles north of the house. We got eager to see the boat & meet the fel- other Navy Leaguers and Byron & Pat outside & were thrilled to see the lows. On Sat, Sun & Mon, there were hosted some of the wardroom folks at Bremerton sliding south in the early tours each day of about 20-25 people, Byron Faber’s house for dinner. morning calm. During the docking many of whom said that this was the Tuesday there was a larger con- at the pier, we had a large banner best submarine tour they’ve ever had tingent of the crew who helped the that said “Welcome USS Bremerton” and that the guys giving the tours Bremerton Parks Department beau- to hold up for our guys. After CDR were more easy going than most & tify the area near the Navy Yard Kerr spoke for a few minutes and made them feel comfortable without entrance as their Community Rela- the Mayor & others welcomed them being rushed through things. There tions contributions. Tuesday after- officially, there was a bit of time to was universal high praise for the USS noon, many of the crew got out to a get all things squared away, then we Bremerton & it’s crew. local watering hole named McClouds all went up to the Sam Adams pub I was able to tell each group before for food, drink, pool, darts, and to see on base where the Navy League had bringing them to the boat that, some of the Corvettes & one lone Fer- arranged food & drink for the crew. although the 698 is the oldest subma- rari that Corvette Club members had It was great to chat with them & see rine in the fleet, it was still winning brought for them. Many of our Navy them enjoying all they could hold. awards for being the best. League folks were able to chat exten- Later that afternoon and evening, Sunday some of us were very for- sively with the crew. Of course, lots there was a reception at RADM Hen- tunate to be able to have a delicious of the guys spent their liberty time negan’s house for the community & lunch aboard. After the tour on going to Seattle or to the Bremerton Navy leaders to meet with the folks Sunday, many folks from the boat Harbor Festival just outside the base from the “Bad Fish.” RDML Hen- went to the Mayor’s office for a recep- along the town’s waterfront. They negan is the Commander of Sub tion, some welcoming & kind words may well need to rest up on their way Group 9, which is the command for from the Mayor, the head of the Puget back to ! the Submarines here. Sound Naval Bases Association, the After the great privilege of spend- Sat AM, one of the highlights for Navy League President and comments ing these days interacting with the me was to meet with the van carrying from CDR Kerr. More food & drink crew of the USS Bremerton, the com- the Sea Gals, (the Seattle Seahawks was available there. Afterwards, we munity developed a deep respect & cheerleaders), and escort them to the went up to the top floor where the admiration for them. We appreciate base & to the boat. They were VERY Mayor’s actual office is and they were all they do for our nation, and it gives impressed & thoroughly enjoyed the shown the 2 ton bell from the original us hope for the future with such high tour. They took all the time anyone USS Bremerton Heavy Cruiser from quality young folks coming along. wanted to sign photos & have pic- WWII, as well as newspaper articles We wish we could keep them all here tures taken with the guys. They were about it’s port visit at the end of the & have the families move to our com- patient & very classy. I think the war, and new material about the “Bad munity. The Navy may think they sailors & the Sea Gals both felt very Fish.” This is all on permanent dis- own the USS Bremerton, but we feel rewarded by the experience. One of play in front of a window overlooking that it is OUR boat & these are OUR the Sea Gals later wrote that this was the town & shipyard. boys. a day she would remember for the Monday on the fantail of the USS WE had very fond feelings for rest of her life. They were very well Turner Joy, a Vietnam era them as we watched them go by the impressed with the quality of young on Bremerton’s waterfront, there was house on their way out Puget Sound men defending our country and a Navy League sponsored Memorial to the Sea. appreciated the sacrifices made on a Day service which was attended by Submitted by Byron Faber, daily basis by the crew & the families CDR Kerr (photo in the Navy news- Navy League Liaison for who support them. paper). Monday morning some of the the USS Bremerton

4 NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us Above: USS Bremerton crew at Mayor Patty Lent’s Reception.

Above: Navy League members and friends enjoying the USS Bremerton tour.

NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us 5 Join us for our Summer Fun Event Saturday, July 14, 2012 at the Seattle Seahawks Virginia Mason Athletic Center, VMAC On Lake Washington, 12 Seahawks Way, Renton, WA 98056 4:00pm – 7:30pm The evening will include: Presentation of the Colors by the Liberty High School JROTC A Tour of the Seahawk's Business Operations Center & Practice Facility Silent Auction of Seattle Seahawks and Sounders Donated Sports Items Greeting and Welcome by the Seattle Seahawks "Sea Gals" Buffet Dinner provided by Longhorn BBQ Complimentary Wine and Beer

Our keynote speakers will be:

RADM Bob Hennegan Commander, Submarine Group Nine Topic: TBD

Fred Smith Director, Business Development, Navy & Marine Corps Programs, The Boeing Company Topic: Comments and an update on the Navy's new P-8A Poseidon Multi-Mission Aircraft that will replace the Navy's P-3 Orion Schedule: No-Host Social Hour: 4:00pm VMAC Tours: 4:00pm Buffet Dinner: 5:00pm Program: 6:00pm Adjourn: 7:30pm The cost per person is $40 before July 12th or $45 at the door.

Please make your reservations by going to www.lakewashnlus.org or use the form below. ------Mail in registration and support for the Lake Washington Council Dinner by July 12th , 2012

Name (1) ______

Name (2) ______

Phone ______E-Mail ______

Dinner(s) at $40 per person ______

Donate a dinner for a Sailor/Coastie/Student ($40 each) ______

Tax-deductible additional donation ______

Total ______

Mail to: LWC, PO 183, Medina WA 98039

6 NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us Tour of USS John C. Stennis 2012 COUNCIL OFFICERS President Carolyn Dankers 360.769.7415 [email protected] Vice President Tim Katona 360.674.2628 [email protected] Secretary Heidi Hottinger Treasurer Ruth Bond Judge Advocate George Rose Immediate Past President Carolyn Dankers

COUNCIL BOARD MEMBERS

ó Tom Danaher ó Drake Evans ó Byron Faber ó Steve Fabry hirty-two Navy League members 15,000 meals are served daily! ó Patricia Germane T and guests, including several Although past tours have often been ó Robert Hoag children, were welcomed to a tour during times of extensive industrial ó Robert Cairns of the Nimitz class carrier USS John activity, this time the primary ó Doug Garner C. Stennis CVN 74 on June 22, 2012. activity was the loading of supplies ó Dodie Garner After a welcome and overview briefing and provisions for a qualification and ó Bob Lamb we broke into two groups and visited training cruise which was to embark ó Neva Lamb ó Will Lent the hangar deck, forecastle, flight deck in three days. Stennis will operate off ó Helen Miller (which was sporting a newly completed the California coast and take on the air ó Larry Salter resurfacing), flight deck control with wing during this time. ó Tina Salter the “Ouija board,” the navigation Our sincere thanks to the officers ó Mike Sharp bridge and the ship’s store. We also and crew of USS John C. Stennis for ó Erin Sorensen walked the “chow line” and joined the their gracious hospitality and to Byron ó James Walkowski crew for lunch in one of the four mess Faber for another great tour. decks. When the ship is under way Submitted by Norman Marten is the official newsletter of the Bremerton-Olympic Peninsula Council of the Navy League of the United States. It is published Planning Ahead monthly and provided to all members.

For best service, register early for the luncheon and the tours. Editorial Board Carolyn Dankers Susan Larsen Alan Beam July 4 Independence Day Graphic Layout Kirk Piering

July 9 Welcome to Everett (Ship homecoming). Everett Base 8:30 a.m. Published by Raytheon You will need base access for this event. We welcome your comments and story ideas. Items for publication, changes of July 10 Monthly luncheon-Captain Baker, CO of IMF, Bangor address, and inquires should be sent to: Doors open at 11, program begins at 11:45 a.m. Lunch is $12. Editor Call 360 692-3856. ext 7002 for reservations Now Hear This PO Box 5719 July 11 Monthly Board Meeting, Kitsap Regional Library, on Sylvan Way, Bremerton, WA 98312 East Bremerton, 5:30 p.m. or email: [email protected]

NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us 7 Bremerton-Olympic Peninsula Council Non Profit Org. Navy League of the United States U.S. POSTAGE PAID Post Office Box 5719 Silverdale, WA Bremerton, WA 98312 Permit No.111

Address change requested

Navy League of the United States Mission Statement and Goals civilian organization dedicated to informing the American people and their A government that the United States of America is a maritime nation and that it’s national defense and economic well being are dependent upon strong sea services – , United States Marine Corps, United States Coast Guard and the United States Merchant Marine.

Navy League Goals 1. Educate national leaders and the nation. 2. Support the men and women of the sea services. 3. Provide assistance to the sea service families. 4. Support the youth program.

8 NOW HEAR THIS online: http://brem-olympic.nlus.us