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UNITAS Gold Comes To An End, Pages 4-5

2008 CHINFO Award Winner Vol. 52 • Issue 18 www.nsmayport.navy.mil www.mayportmirror.com THURSDAY, May 7, 2009 Sign-Up Starts For New GI Bill By Donna Miles provision that enables enroll- Clark said. “This gives them the He emphasized that, by law, la. American Forces Press Service ees to transfer their benefits to opportunity to share those ben- anyone who has retired or sepa- For example, those with at The Department of Veterans immediate family members. efits that they have earned with rated from the service before least 10 years of service – but Affairs is ready to begin accept- This long-sought-after provi- those they love.” that date – even if it’s July 31 who can’t serve an additional ing sign-ups for the Post- sion is expected to be a boom The rules for Post-9/11 GI – won’t be entitled to transfer four years because of a service USO Hosts 9/11 GI Bill and the Defense for the military, Clark said, Bill transferability are in the their benefits. or Defense Department policy Department is working to get attracting and retaining the final stages, and Clark said the Also excluded will be mem- –also would qualify, Clark said. word out on its proposed policy skilled force it needs. Defense Department expects bers of the Individual Ready They must, however, serve Military Day regarding the bill’s transferabil- “The Post-9/11 GI Bill is few changes, if any. Reserve and Fleet Reserve. the maximum time allowed before separating from the mili- The Greater Jacksonville ity provisions to help service- going to be an extremely good In a nutshell, any enlisted or Most servicemembers who tary, he said. Area USO and MWR will members decide if the new ben- benefit to attract bright, young commissioned member of the have at least six years of mili- “What we did not want to do host its free 6th Annual efit is right for them. Americans to serve in the mili- armed forces serving on active tary service as of Aug. 1 and was to penalize those people Military Appreciation Day on Bob Clark, the Pentagon’s tary,” he said. duty or in the Selected Reserve agree to serve an additional four who had a service policy or May 16 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. assistant director for accessions “The transferability is going on or after Aug. 1 will be eli- years qualify, he said. statute that would not permit at the Sea Otter Pavilion at policy, called the Post-9/11 GI to be a tool that will allow us gible to transfer their benefits But the Defense Department them to commit for the full four NS Mayport. Bill that takes effect Aug. 1 an to retain members who have – as long as they qualify for the has proposed measures to cover years,” Clark explained. The day is to honor active important new benefit. In addi- earned that great benefit and Post-9/11 GI Bill in the first several categories of service- Another Pentagon proposal duty men and women in the tion to providing broader edu- share it with their family mem- place and meet specific service members whose circumstances local area. It is also a great cational benefits, it includes a bers and continue to serve,” requirements, Clark explained. don’t fit neatly into this formu- See GI Bill, Page 11 opportunity to say thank you to the spouses and children for the sacrifices they make in support of their military SECNAV Penn Visits Mayport New CO family member. The event will include live music from Southern Ruckus Band, USA cheerleaders, For RGB inflatables and activities for By MCSA Whitfield M. Palmer adults and kids. There will USS Robert G. Bradley also be free food, games Cmdr. Timothy F. Sparks relieved prizes and giveaways. The Cmdr. Clinton A. Carroll as pool will be open from 10 Commanding Officer of USS Robert a.m.-6 p.m. For more infor- G. Bradley (FFG 49) on May 1 on mation call the NAS Jax the flight deck of the ship while on USO Center at 778-2821 or deployment to the Sixth Fleet Area the Mayport USO Center at of Responsibility. Gen. William E. 246-3481. “Kip” Ward, Commander, U.S. Africa Command was the guest speaker for the event. His presence highlighted the USS Stark importance of Africa Partnership Station (APS) / Theater Security Cooperation Memorial Set (TSC) missions, the Navy’s tremendous The 20th annual memorial contribution to these missions, and the service for USS Stark (FFG outstanding performance of Robert G. 31) will be held at Naval Bradley on her APS/TSC deployment. Station Mayport’s Memorial A native of Virginia Beach, Va., Park at 10:30 a.m. on May Carroll graduated from the Naval 17. Academy in May 1989 with a Bachelor On May 17, 1987, 37 USS of Science in Political Science. Stark Sailors were killed Carroll assumed command of Robert when two missiles struck the G. Bradley Nov. 2, 2007. Previously ship without warning after he was a student at the National War 9 p.m., while the ship was College in Washington D.C. and was on on patrol in the southern the Navy Quadrennial Defense Review Persian Gulf. This year, our Staff from Nov. 2004 - July 2006. His guest speaker will be Rear next assignment is with the Joint Staff Adm. Joseph D. Kernan, in the Directorate of Operations (J3) as Commander, U.S. Naval -Photo by Paige Gnann the Global Strike Branch Chief. Forces Southern Command B5-@5;:
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  Executive Officer under Commander Commander, Destroyer Carroll’s leadership,” said Sparks. “I Squadron 14, presiding. look forward to the challenges that lay McLaren is a native ahead as Commanding Officer and con- of Jacksonville, Florida tinuing to serve with this great crew.” In and a 1991 graduate from the United States Naval his remarks, General Ward stated, “As Academy. you know, a warship is a direct reflec- His service afloat tion of its Commanding Officer. From includes tours aboard the moment that I knew that Robert G. USS Leahy (CG 16), USS Bradley would be coming to the U.S. Chancellorsville (CG 62), Africa Command’s area of responsibil- USS Higgins (DDG 76), ity, I was certain of one thing, that she and USS Boone (FFG 28). was ably led and would do remarkable Ashore, he has served on things.” th th Robert G. Bradley is homeported the staff at 6 and 7 Fleets, 

 and most recently complet- in Mayport, FL and is wrapping up a ed a tour as the PCO Course ULTRA-E inspection. six month deployment that has seen Coordinator at the Surface Under Kirk’s unwav- the ship circumnavigate Africa. The -Photo by Paige Gnann Warfare Officers School in ering leadership, De Wert ship is in Souda Bay for Phoenix 5>
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1D1>/5?1 (SRA) period, and an ability between the Maghreb, Europe, ULTRA-S, ULTRA-C, and See De Wert, Page 8 and the U.S. . 2 THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 CO Column Two days ago we closed and to deploy forces even under ship and decommissioned in Marine Corps Relief Society has finally come. Please keep out the 50th anniversary of the most adverse weather condi- 1977. They will arrive by bus fund drive. Although the drive it nice for all of us and clean UNITAS GOLD and I have to tions. The drill will also include and most of them will be at our officially ends on May 15, we up more than you brought, tell you how pleased I am with reviewing and exercising heavy crosswalk entering the park on have raised $214,000 to date please keep pets on leashes at everyone who did some major weather instructions and proce- foot so please be careful as you and our goal was $200,000. all times, please fish only north heavy lifting to pull this event dures as well as fully account- drive around the base that morn- Last year, Mayport assisted of the Chief’s Club and swim off. From our counterparts at ing for Sailors and Navy fami- ing. nearly 1,500 clients and pro- south of the Chief’s club, and if NAVSO and 4th Fleet, to our lies through the Navy Family On May 17 at 10 a.m., we will vided loans and grants totaling you see any signs of turtles or a Harbor Operations folks get- Accountability and Assessment remember those who were tragi- more than $925,000. Each and ting ships in port and under- System (NFAAS). Don’t wait cally killed aboard USS Stark every dollar donated will go to stranded animal, please contact way, this team of profession- until hurricane season to prepare (FFG 31) when it was hit by help a shipmate or family get security immediately. There als that work here on the best your family. Make sure you are Iraqi missiles 22 years ago. This through a tough time. Those have already been several turtles base in the Navy really shined. “hurricane ready” and plan now year, our guest speaker will be tough times can range from get- nests in Jacksonville beach and Your efforts were remarkable, where you will evacuate in case Rear Adm. Joseph D. Kernan, ting help with car repairs, emer- our first one will likely be any and you are now a part of his- we need to do so. We came Commander, U.S. Naval gency travel, rent, utility pay- day. If you go past the poles at tory as this event is indeed his- real close last year to evacuat- Forces Southern Command and ment or groceries on the table. Hanna Park, you will be chal- torical. Thanks to everyone for 

 ing the base and were within Commander, U.S. 4th Fleet. In Please participate in this very lenged to show an ID coming your hard work and dedication. each day and he met several of hours of making that decision the event of inclement weath- worthy program while the drive back on the Naval Station. If you haven’t had a chance to you along the tour route. Thanks until a couple of storms veered er, the ceremony will be held is still on. Please keep an eye out while do so, today is the last day to to everyone who had a hand in off to the north. If the decision inside the ATG auditorium. Today is the first day of you go through your day and visit the Chilean Frigate Blanco arranging his visit, he was very to evacuate is made, there is no Each year we hold this service the TPC golf tournament and don’t hesitate to let me know if impressed with your profession- option to stay on base and you and if you haven’t attended one remember active duty military moored up at the Jacksonville you see a better (or safer way) North bank Riverfront near the alism and the look of the base. will have to vacate quickly so you should. Survivors of that and retirees get in the gates to do business around the base. landing. Free tours run from 1-8 We are two days into our hur- please have a game plan ready. day always attend, and its an absolutely free after 3 p.m. p.m. ricane preparedness exercise, On May 15, more than 300 honor to host them and be a part There will also be a hospitality Your concerns are my concerns, Last week we welcomed a HURREX/Citadel Gale 09 reunion members from the of remembering their lost ship- tent available between the 16th so keep those suggestions roll- visit by our boss Rear Admiral which will continue until May Franklin D. Roosevelt will be mates right along with them. and 18th fairways for military ing in to the CO’s suggestion Townsend G. Alexander and he 14. The purpose of this annual on base to commission phase Big thanks to the generos- and their families. box located at the base galley, had a chance to see first hand exercise is to best prepare us two of their memorial at Stark ity of everyone who contribut- Couple of notes on the or email them to aaron.bow- the talent you bring to the table to respond to weather threats Park. The FDR was a Mayport ed during this year’s Navy and beach now that warm weather [email protected]. Chaplain’s Corner Two days ago we closed and to deploy forces even under ship and decommissioned in Marine Corps Relief Society has finally come. Please keep out the 50th anniversary of the most adverse weather condi- 1977. They will arrive by bus fund drive. Although the drive it nice for all of us and clean UNITAS GOLD and I have to tions. The drill will also include and most of them will be at our officially ends on May 15, we up more than you brought, tell you how pleased I am with reviewing and exercising heavy crosswalk entering the park on have raised $214,000 to date please keep pets on leashes at everyone who did some major weather instructions and proce- foot so please be careful as you and our goal was $200,000. all times, please fish only north heavy lifting to pull this event dures as well as fully account- drive around the base that morn- Last year, Mayport assisted of the Chief’s Club and swim off. From our counterparts at ing for Sailors and Navy fami- ing. nearly 1,500 clients and pro- south of the Chief’s club, and if NAVSO and 4th Fleet, to our lies through the Navy Family On May 17 at 10 a.m., we will vided loans and grants totaling you see any signs of turtles or a Harbor Operations folks get- Accountability and Assessment remember those who were tragi- more than $925,000. Each and stranded animal, please contact ting ships in port and under- System (NFAAS). Don’t wait cally killed aboard USS Stark every dollar donated will go to way, this team of profession- until hurricane season to prepare (FFG 31) when it was hit by help a shipmate or family get security immediately. There als that work here on the best your family. Make sure you are Iraqi missiles 22 years ago. This through a tough time. Those have already been several turtles base in the Navy really shined. “hurricane ready” and plan now year, our guest speaker will be tough times can range from get- nests in Jacksonville beach and Your efforts were remarkable, where you will evacuate in case Rear Adm. Joseph D. Kernan, ting help with car repairs, emer- our first one will likely be any and you are now a part of his- 

 we need to do so. We came Commander, U.S. Naval gency travel, rent, utility pay- day. If you go past the poles at tory as this event is indeed his-  

 real close last year to evacuat- Forces Southern Command and ment or groceries on the table. Hanna Park, you will be chal- torical. Thanks to everyone for ing the base and were within Commander, U.S. 4th Fleet. In Please participate in this very lenged to show an ID coming your hard work and dedication. each day and he met several of hours of making that decision the event of inclement weath- worthy program while the drive back on the Naval Station. you along the tour route. Thanks If you haven’t had a chance to until a couple of storms veered er, the ceremony will be held is still on. Please keep an eye out while do so, today is the last day to to everyone who had a hand in off to the north. If the decision inside the ATG auditorium. Today is the first day of arranging his visit, he was very you go through your day and visit the Chilean Frigate Blanco to evacuate is made, there is no Each year we hold this service the TPC golf tournament and don’t hesitate to let me know if impressed with your profession- option to stay on base and you and if you haven’t attended one remember active duty military moored up at the Jacksonville you see a better (or safer way) North bank Riverfront near the alism and the look of the base. will have to vacate quickly so you should. Survivors of that and retirees get in the gates to do business around the base. landing. Free tours run from 1-8 We are two days into our hur- please have a game plan ready. day always attend, and its an absolutely free after 3 p.m. p.m. ricane preparedness exercise, On May 15, more than 300 honor to host them and be a part There will also be a hospitality Your concerns are my concerns, Last week we welcomed a HURREX/Citadel Gale 09 reunion members from the of remembering their lost ship- tent available between the 16th so keep those suggestions roll- visit by our boss Rear Admiral which will continue until May Franklin D. Roosevelt will be mates right along with them. and 18th fairways for military ing in to the CO’s suggestion Townsend G. Alexander and he 14. The purpose of this annual on base to commission phase Big thanks to the generos- and their families. box located at the base galley, had a chance to see first hand exercise is to best prepare us two of their memorial at Stark ity of everyone who contribut- Couple of notes on the or email them to aaron.bow- the talent you bring to the table to respond to weather threats Park. The FDR was a Mayport ed during this year’s Navy and beach now that warm weather [email protected]. Homefront in Focus weet Land of Liberty By Beth Wilson ing sites provide an opportu- S Military Spouse Contributor nity to connect with those we I am writing this column sit- may never encounter IRL (in Visit Sea World’s Shamu For Free! ting in the Washington, DC area real life). where I am attending the annu- Blogging has given a voice By Erica I. Peña-Vest our freedom.” al MilBloggers Conference. to many. Whether a blog about Travel Contributor Anheuser-Busch has extend- I have been dragged into 21st your profession, news, politics, In Febuary of 2005, ed its program through 2009. Century technology by my family, or military life; blog- Anheuser-Busch, owners of What a great opportunity to techie-guru husband. If it were ging has become its own indus- SeaWorld Parks, announced take your family on a memora- up to me I’d remain content try: citizen journalism. On that that they would be offering ble vacation for minimal cost. with my cell phone (how 20th note have you checked out the free admission to all active To take advantage of this offer, century of me) to keep in touch. many fine military bloggers and duty military, ready reserve log on to www.herosalute.com I’d rely on cable news and military spouse bloggers? Do members, Coast Guardsman or visit the entrance plaza nd network programming for my you have a blog? Perhaps you or national Guardsmen who show your Department of entertainment. I must confess I are a video blogger. wish to visit any SeaWorld, Defense ID. Unfortunately, still use my walk-man. I know, I As with all advances in Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, inactive, standby and retired need help…”Hello, my name is society there are also risks. It Adventure Island or Water reserve members, military Beth and I’m a techie-lamer.” is important for us to become Country USA park nation- retirees, and civilian depart- So kicking, screaming and social media literate while wide. “Here’s to the Heroes” ment of defense workers are dragging my feet I have enter promoting good ‘digital citi- program offers free admission more than 4 million members Manager Andy Fichthorn. ineligible for the program. For this world of ‘new-media’. I zenship’ within new media. In for the service member and of the U.S. and coalition armed “For all of us at SeaWorld and more information on SeaWorld confess I have lived many ful- New Media, we participate in as many of three of his or her forces and their families. “We Anheuser-Busch, it’s an honor parks, go to www.seaworld. dependants with dependant ID. take great pride in saluting our to show our appreciation for com. For travel deals and mil- filling years without MySpace, the ‘community’ so we need to Since then, the tribute program men and women in uniform,” the sacrifices they and their itary discounts, log on to www. Facebook, or YouTube. I evaluate what we upload, post, had provided free admission to said SeaWorld San Diego families make every day for guidetofamilytravel.com. thought I was ‘current’ main- produce and our behavior. As taining a website. I thought I good citizens in the digital com- was ‘cutting edge’ with an inter- munity of we must be wise in net talk show. I knew I hit the what we consume from new big time when I launched my media as well as what we pro- first blog. But my husband burst duce. As military spouses we Naval Station Mayport my bubble when he informed must add to that sensitivity to Capt. Aaron Bowman ...... Commanding Officer me that I needed to ‘Twitter’. OPSEC. Cmdr. Mike Watson...... Executive Officer At first I thought he was refer- CMDCM Deborah Davidson ...... Command Master Chief ring to that loveable bunny from I have heard from spouses Naval Station Mayport Editorial Staff Roman Catholic Mass Bill Austin ...... Public Affairs Officer Bambi. But I’m already ‘twitter- who found new media to be not only a benefit but a source of Sunday 9 a.m. MC1 Heather Ewton ...... Deputy Public Affairs Officer patted’ with my husband.” FC1Price Clay ...... Assistant Public Affairs Officer confusion, even pain. Careless Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. Do you Twitter? What the Confessions: before & after IC2 Paul Fenn ...... Assistant Public Affairs Officer postings, slander, and gossip in Paige Gnann...... Editor heck is ‘micro-blogging’? How mass or upon request forums, blogs and other venues The Mirror is distributed without charge throughout Mayport’s Navy community, including the Naval Station, am I supposed to convey any- CCD: Sunday 10:30 a.m. on- and off-base Navy housing areas, and ships, squadrons and staffs homeported at NS Mayport. Copies thing of meaning in 140 charac- have caused pain, even harmed Baptisms: class 3rd Sunday of are also available at the Naval Station’s Public Affairs Office, Building 1, and The Florida Times-Union, 1 ters? I can barely keep my col- relationships and marriages. month Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Once posted, it is on the net Protestant Worship The deadline for all submissions is Thursday at 4 p.m., one week prior to publication. News and articles umns down to 500 words! By should be submitted to the Public Affairs Office, or mailed to: the way, you can follow me at forever. Check out these web- Sunday 10:30 a.m. The Mirror www.twitter.com/beth_wilson. sites for tips in internet safety Sunday school 9:15 a.m. P.O. Box 280032 Baptism: For information Alas, I have embraced this and digital citizenship: www. Naval Station netfamilynews.org, www.new- contact your chaplain Mayport, FL 32228-0032 new world of communica- Commercial: (904) 270-7817 Ext. 1012 DSN: 960-7817 Ext. 1012 medialiteracies.org, and www. tion, new media. Through all Women’s Bible Study Commercial FAX (904) 270-5329 DSN FAX: 960-5329 my grumbling and complain- getnetwise.org. Wednesday 9:30 a.m. Email: [email protected] ing I have come to recognize Speaking of New Media. I’ll CO Actionline: 270-5589 or 1-800-270-6307 Protestant choir This DoD newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of the incredible opportunities and be posting both audio (www. Wednesday 7 p.m. The Mirror are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department potential it presents. blogtalkradio.com/nht) and of Defense or the Department of the Navy. Published by The Florida Times-Union, a private firm in no way Obviously email has changed written blogs (www.home- Interdenominational connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with Naval Station Mayport, Fla. 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The editorial content of this publication is the For more information contact responsibility of the Naval Station Mayport, Fla., Public Affairs Office. internet protocol) offered con- there! MOPS coordinator at maypo- nection with deployed service Questions or comments for [email protected] members, family and friends as Beth? Email her at beth@home- never before. Social network- frontinfocus.com. Marriage Contact Chaplain 6 months Advertisements are solicited by the publisher. Inquiries regarding advertising should be directed to: prior. PREP is required Ellen S.Rykert • Military Publications Manager 1 Riverside Avenue • Jacksonville, FL 32202 (904) 359-4168 Find It In The Classifieds For more information, calll Russ Martin • Advertising Sales Manager 270-5212. (904) 359-4336 • FAX: (904) 366-6230 .

THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 3 Midway Dinner Tickets On Sale Tickets are now on sale for fine dining and entertainment. this year’s Battle of Midway Uniform will be O4 and above Commemoration Dinner, - dinner dress white jacket; which will be held June 6, at O3 and below - dinner dress the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville white/dinner dress white jacket Downtown. optional and civilian is black Guest speaker General tie or business attire. Cocktails James N. Mattis, NATO’s begin at 1830, dinner at 1930. Supreme Allied Commander Reserved seating. for Transformation and Make checks payable to Commander, United States Joint Navy League Midway Dinner. Forces Command and other vet- Tickets may be purchased from erans of the Battle of Midway the following locations: will also attend this year’s din- * Navy League Mayport Bill ner. McLoughlin at 904-285-8731 Come meet these “National * USO Mayport at 904-246- Treasures” and hear their adven- 3481 tures first hand. * Navy League St Augustine Mattis is the highest military at 904-794-7814 authority in NATO, for promot- * Command Master Chief ing and overseeing the continu- (CMC) Davidson - NS Mayport ing transformation of Alliance at 904-270-5940 Ext. 1201 or forces and capabilities and is 1202 dual-hatted as Commander of * CMC’S Office - NAS the U.S. Joint Forces Command, Jacksonville, ATAN Fallucca which is responsible for maxi- at 904-542-2934, or CMC mizing future and present mili- Jeffery Hudson at 904-542- tary capabilities of the United 2934 States. His command is exer- cised from the Headquarters -Photo by YN1 (SW/AW) Mark D. Leet of Alliance Command )''
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4A88 Transformation in Norfolk, Virginia, United States, which is also where U.S. Joint Forces Command has its Headquarters. USS Underwood Enters Dry Dock The Navy League of Mayport is hosting the dinner. From USS Underwood Public Affairs As families reunited with their between the end of deploy- es all deployment and prevailed, The provides an excellent USS Underwood entered loved ones many Underwood ment and the yard period it took successfully, and the crew did opportunity to connect with sur- Atlantic Marine dry dock for Sailors were making prepara- teamwork and dedication from vivors of what historians call an outstanding job to make all one of the U. S. Navy’s great- a scheduled two-month CNO tions to enter the dry docking the entire crew to switch gears this possible.” Dry docking Selected Restricted facility. and focus on the new and chal- est sea victories and the turn- USS Underwood will remain ing point of World War II in the Availability (DSRA) on April Sailors spent countless hours lenging task at hand. in dry dock for the next two Pacific. 10, only six days after returning over the weekend and during “It was difficult having to Ticket costs are: Active from a highly successful six- the extremely busy work week focus on going into dry dock months at which time the ship Duty E-6 and below, $25; E-7 month Counter-Narco Terrorism to make this dry docking pos- when coming home to see fam- and crew will return to Naval to O3, $35; O4 to O5, $45, O6 Station Mayport for continued deployment to the Eastern sible. With an unusual schedule ily and friends,” said Ensign and above, civilians, and retir- Pacific. and extremely short time frame Devall, “but we faced challeng- maintenance. ees, $55. The evening includes . 4 THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 UNITAS Gold 2009 Draws To A Close By MC2 Ron Kuzlik designed to train the partici- ating closely with the other Commander, U.S. Naval Forces South- pating forces in a variety of services, the interagency com- ern Command - U.S 4th Fleet Public maritime scenarios, with each munity, allies and international Affairs operating as a component of a partners,” Roughead said. th UNITAS Gold, the 50 itera- multinational force, and provid- Rear Adm. Joseph Kernan, tion of the longest running mul- ing the maximum opportunity U.S. Naval Forces Southern tinational exercise in the world to improve interoperability. Command (NAVSO) and came to a close May 4, follow- Capt. Rudy Laco, Commander, U.S. Fourth Fleet ing more than two weeks of Commodore, Destroyer is looking forward to future realistic training scenarios by Squadron 40, emphasized the exercises. the United States and partner importance of UNITAS Gold maritime forces and observers and other multinational exer- “As we move forward togeth- from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, cises. er, I am confident that future Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, “All of the navies are learning opportunities to work with our Dominican Republic, Germany, from the multi-mission exer- partners will not only strength- Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay. cise. We’re establishing a com- en our ability to operate togeth- A Parade of Ships entered mand and control infrastructure er and provide for our nations Mayport harbor as friends, to run scenarios which we may security but will also build per- families, dignitaries and specta- encounter in a real time envi- sonal and professional respect tors watched sailors dressed in ronment,” he said. and friendships.” their whites manning the rails “We have been able to get Capt. Orlando Romero, of more than a dozen warships underway from day one - sort- commanding officer of the representing their respective ing 18 ships, establishing a com- Colombian Navy auxiliary navies. mand and control network and ship ARC Cartegena de Indias During the 16-day exercise, accomplishing multiple taskings agreed. more than 25 ships, 4 subma- including a photo exercise and “I am so thankful for the rines, 50 aircraft, and 7,000 an MIO (Maritime Interdiction opportunity to participate in the Sailors and Marines took part Operations) boarding.” tactics of our partner navies, as in training tailored to address a Chief of Naval Operations well as the chance to share in variety of mission specific areas Adm. Gary Roughead has including live-fire exercises, emphasized strengthening and their rich customs and cultures.” undersea warfare, shipboard cultivating relationships while UNITAS 2010 will be operations, maritime interdic- continuing to operate as a joint encompass both an Atlantic tion operations, air defense and and combined force. and a Pacific phase. The host surface warfare, amphibious “The Navy will remain a nation for next year’s Atlantic operations, electronic warfare, powerful component of joint phase is Argentina and the host and special warfare. warfare by exploiting cutting- nation for the Pacific phase is The ongoing exercise is edge technology and cooper- Colombia.

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(SNA) UNITAS Gold Golf with awards being presented forum that puts a face to the st nd rd Tournament on April 22. for the 1 , 2 , and 3 place voice on the other end of the More than 100 U.S. and teams, longest drive, closest radio in the middle of the Foreign Sailors came togeth- to the pin, and longest putt night. Many friendships that er at the Windy Harbor Golf followed by a picnic at the were formed during this event Course for just one of the Sea Otter Pavilion. will last many years as our many key events held during The Destroyer Squadron the 50th Iteration of the annual 14 team, led by Commodore militaries continue to work multi-national maritime exer- Glenn Zeiders, and the U.S. together.” cise series. 4th Fleet team, headed up With the support of the Naval Station Mayport was by Rear Admiral Kernan Surface Navy Association, the honored to host UNITAS ended the 18 hole best ball tournament provided an excel- Gold this year, the first time competition tied at 19 under lent opportunity for UNITAS the exercise has been held on par. However, the Destroyer Gold participants to social- the U.S. mainland in its 50- Squadron 14 team prevailed ize in a relaxed environment year existence. in a tie breaking “putt-off” to prior to the start of the com- The first week of UNITAS claim victory. The Norfolk plex underway portion of the Gold included an opening day based Guided Missile two-week training period on social at Bogey’s Restaurant Destroyer USS Donald Cook April 23. on April 20, receptions (DDG 75) took third place No doubt, the partnerships onboard ships from Chile, in the contest. Operations strengthened on the links Germany, Peru, and Mexico, Specialist 2nd Class Connelly, will enhance the teamwork at and the SNA sponsored 18- representing 4th Fleet, aced sea as the U.S. Navy, Coast hole, four man team, best ball the number 14 par three to golf tournament. win the closest to the pin Guard, and Partner Nation With the superb support award. ships set sail for the under- and hospitality of the Windy Lt. Cmdr. Kristopher Kell, way portion of UNITAS, to Harbor Golf Shop, run by Surface Navy Association include live-fire exercises as Mr. Jon Fine, and Bogey’s Mayport Chapter organizer well as the SINKEX of the -Photo MC2 Alan Gragg Restaurant, U.S. Sailors, of the event, stated, “The ex-USS Connolly, undersea @
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THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 5 UNITAS Gold Practice MIO, Replenishment At Sea By MC2 Class Alan Gragg and U.S. Coast boarding the vessel,” said Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Guard Petty Officer Seth Johnson Rolofs, executive officer of Frankfurt am Main COMUSNAVSO and U.S. Coast Guard by changing crew member’s names and identi- Maritime forces participating in UNITAS Gold fication cards, so when the boarding team came practiced maritime interdiction operations (MIO) aboard they would have a difficult time conduct- and replenishment-at-sea (RAS) techniques April ing the search. This would help simulate pos- 26. sible obstacles the boarding team may face while UNITAS Gold is in the 50th performance of the conducting interdiction operations in a real-world annual, multinational partnership-building exer- situation.. cise, which provides the opportunity to conduct Three marine commandos hovered over the and assimilate joint and combined land, maritime, flight deck of Frankfurt am Main, and fast-roped coastal and air-operations in a realistic training down to begin the search. After securing the environment. vessel, members of a Mexican Navy boarding As the primary replenishment asset during the team came alongside the Frankfurt am Main, and RAS exercise, German Navy Combat Support climbed aboard the Jacob’s ladder to search for Ship Frankfurt Am Main (A-1412) supported RAS drills conducted by the Mexican Frigate hidden contraband. ARM Mina (F-214) and multipurpose ship ARM After the boarding team sorted through the Oaxaca (PO-161), the amphibious transport dock- crewmember identification confusion, they ing ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19) and the guid- searched the cargo compartments for contraband. ed missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG- After searching several compartments, the board- 75) ing team found the simulated illegal items and the Following the RAS, a boarding team consisting interdiction was a success. The entire operation of Mexican marine commandos began a maritime took less than two hours to complete. interception operation (MIO) exercise by flying Naval forces and observers from Argentina, over the Frankfurt am Main in a Mexican HH-65 Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican helicopter and notifying the ship of their inten- Republic, Ecuador, Germany, Mexico, Peru, tions to come aboard and search for prohibited Uruguay and the United States are participating items. in this year’s exercise from April 20 through May “We’re making this a challenge for the teams 7 off the coast of Jacksonville, Fla.

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UNITAS Gold Welcomes Mexican Navy For SINKEX By MC2 Brandon Shelander Commander, U.S. Naval Forces South- ern Command - U.S 4th Fleet Public Affairs The Mexican patrol vessel ARM Oaxaca (PO-161) partici- pated along with ships from 11 nations in the sinking exercise (SINKEX) of the former ex- USS Connelly (DD 975) April 29 during UNITAS Gold. “Fuego!” says a mechanic voice over a radio as a loud boom echoes across the Atlantic Ocean, followed by another and another in a rapid series. Distant, soundless splashes rise into the air where the shells from a 76/62mm naval cannon mark their entry into the rough blue water during the SINKEX. Practice firing the main cannon on board the Armada de Mexico (ARM) Oaxaca (PO-161) is nothing new for Oaxaca’s Commanding Officer Efren Gomez Luis. What is new for him and his crew is the chance to train and work with 11 navies at once during UNITAS Gold, an annu- al maritime exercise that pro- vides a rigorous training envi- ronment in which participating nations conduct joint and com- bined operations in a realistic scenario. “Personally, UNITAS is a great learning opportunity for me and my crew, something I’ve wanted to do for a long time,” said Luis, on the bridge of Oaxaca while watching the horizon with large binoculars. An English speaking voice -U.S. Coast Guard Photo by Petty Officer Seth Johnson comes through the radio, some- 
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They relay course informa- )>A3A-E tion and Oaxaca’s radioman, a young officer fresh from undersea warfare, shipboard time Mexico has participated. commanding officer. come in 1st place at the naval who see UNITAS Gold as a Mexico’s naval academy, replies operations, maritime interdic- Its assets in the exercise include “I’m very proud to be in academy are on this crew. The rich training experience and a in English. Oaxaca’s finished tion operations, anti-air and the offshore patrol vessel, ARM UNITAS,” said Teniente de Comandante Luis also asked chance to mingle with navies its practice firing and will reset anti-surface warfare, amphibi- Oaxaca (PO-161) and frigate, Corbeta (Lt.) Arturo Morales the academy to send us their from other countries. The enlist- course to a position with the ous operations, electronic war- ARM Mina (F-214). Desachy one of the officers in best midshipmen. We all want ed sailors aboard Oaxaca have a other ships. In front of Oaxaca, fare, and special warfare. In “I feel very happy to be in charge of translating incoming to learn as much as possible. favorable outlook as well. four ships make an orderly line, total, over 25 ships, four sub- this very important event. Our radio communications during I would like to learn about “It’s good to be here train- and behind, five more, all sail- marines and more than 50 air- training has become stronger, as the exercise. “I hope we keep maneuvers, fire exercises, aerial ing with the U.S.,” said Maester ing in formation for UNITAS craft have participated. well as our capacity in stopping participating and attend next and surface exercises and all 3rd Class Juan Carlos Morales The primary goal of the train- narco-trafficking and in defense year’s UNITAS. We’ve brought things needed to be prepared Gold. Areualo, Oaxaca’s barber. “It ing is to promote maritime of our national territories,” Luis some of the best officers from in case we help with a natural UNITAS Gold is a two-week feels good for my country to be exercise with realistic scenario- security and stability as well as said. our country to take part in this,” disaster or are part of a task here with my shipmates for all driven training opportunities interoperability between partner The crew of the ARM Oaxaca said Desachy. force,” Desachy explained. featuring live-fire exercises, nations. This year is the first echoed the sentiments of their “Three officers who’ve Officers aren’t the only ones its beautiful experience.” . 6 THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 Happenings

May 7: CPO Weekly Social Bingo. 12:15 p.m. at Beachside is 36-hole stroke play. 270-5380 Hour. Free hors d’oeuvres Community Center. Double May 12: Armed Forces every Thursday 3-5 p.m. at payouts on all hard cards and an 5K/10K Fun Run. 8 a.m. start Foc’sle CPO Club. Drink spe- extra $1,000 game. 270-7205 at the Gym. Free. 270-5451 cials available plus all-you-can- May 10: Mother’s Day May 12: Women’s Softball drink soft drinks for only $1. Bowling Special. 1-8 p.m. Meeting. 11 a.m. in the Gym Weekly social hour is reserved at Mayport Bowling Center. lobby for those interested in for active and retired Chief Special features a $25 lane rent- playing women’s softball. 270- Petty Officers and their guests. al fee with two hours of bowl- 5451 270-5432 ing and shoes for up to five May 13: Intramural May 8: Summer Outdoor people. Plus, bowl a strike with Bowling. Lunchtime league Movies Begin (Bedtime a colored head pin and win a meets at 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays Stories, PG). 8:30 p.m. every free game pass. Bowling must at Mayport Bowling Center. Friday at Sea Otter Pavilion. be completed during facility’s Captain’s Cup league for Active Light refreshments available hours of operation. Reservations Duty. 270-5377 for purchase. Bring your lawn recommended. 270-5377 May 16: Base Pool Opens. chairs or blankets and bug May 11: Deadline for Base The base pool will be open spray, just in case. 270-5228 Golf Championship (May weekends only until Duval May 8 & 9: Live Band, 16-17). 8:30 a.m. shotgun start County Schools dismiss for Denny’s Revenge. 9 p.m.-1 at Windy Harbor for eligible summer break. Weekend hours a.m. both nights at Castaway’s patrons (active and retired mili- are Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Lounge. Everyone welcome. tary, reservists, DoD and their Sunday 1-6 p.m. and Memorial Free admission. 270-7205 dependents with established Day 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Admission May 10: Mother’s Day handicaps at Mayport). Format fees apply. 270-5425 Liberty Call The following activities tar- Mayport (while supplies last). admission to Regal Cinemas for get single or unaccompanied May 9: Funk Fest 2009. your choice of the latest movies. Sailors. For more information, This trip to Metro Park features Trip departs at approximately call 270-7788/89 or stop by the funky sounds of BBD, Guy 6:30 p.m. Cost is only $2. Planet Mayport Single Sailor Featuring Aaron Hall, Fantasia, May 12: Texas Hold ‘Em. Center and pick up the monthly Doug E Fresh, Alexander This free, progressive tour- activity calendar with a com- O’Neal, and Midnight Starr. nament starts at 6 p.m. every plete listing of all upcoming Pre-registration is required. Tuesday at Castaway’s Lounge Liberty events. Cost is $15. (Beachside Community Center). May 7: 10-Minute Tourist May 11: Barracks Break In. May 13: Bootem Pool Tour. Quick tours of Planet Free pizza and a movie in the Tournament. This free tourna- Mayport offered on the hour lounge of Bldg. 2105 starting at ment starts at 6 p.m. at Planet every hour with a giveaway gift 6 p.m. every Monday. Mayport with prizes for first for everyone participating. May 12: Dinner and a and second places. May 8: Free Fry-Day. Movie Trip. This monthly trip May 14: Jacksonville Suns Free McDonald’s French fries features pizza served at Planet Trip. This trip to see the Suns starting at 6:30 p.m. at Planet Mayport and transportation and baseball team take on the Kid Zone May 8: Summer Outdoor run. Ages 9-13 will complete Movies Begin (Bedtime a two-mile run. Sign up at the Stories, PG). 8:30 p.m. every Gym or Youth Activities Center. Friday at Sea Otter Pavilion. Light refreshments available 270-5680 for purchase. Bring your lawn May 15: Freedom Friday, chairs or blankets and bug Movie Night. 7-11 p.m. at the spray, just in case. 270-5228 Youth Activities Center for May 9: Teen Dance. 8-11 p.m. at Club Teen for middle elementary ages. Cost is $7 and high school ages. Cost is $2 in advance, $9 the day of (if per person. 270-5680 or 246- space). Space is limited; early 0347 sign up is recommended. 270- May 10: Mother’s Day Bowling Special. 1-8 p.m. 5680 at Mayport Bowling Center. May 15: Club Teen Special features a $25 lane rent- Extended Hours (Open Mic al fee with two hours of bowl- Night). Open 7-10 p.m. for ing and shoes for up to five people. Plus, bowl a strike with middle and high school ages. a colored head pin and win a 270-5680 or 246-0347 free game pass. Bowling must May 23: Teen Lock-In. 7 be completed during facility’s p.m.-7 a.m. at Club Teen for hours of operation. Reservations recommended. 270-5377 middle and high school ages. May 13: Deadline for Theme is “murder mystery”. America’s Armed Forces Kids Cost is $12 in advance or $15 Run. Event is 4-5:30 p.m. May the day of (if space). A permis- 15 for ages 5-13. Ages 5-6 will complete a half-mile run. Ages sion slip is required. 270-5680 7-8 will complete a one-mile or 246-0347 .

THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 7 Defense Department Mayport Employee of the Quarter Plans MWR Survey By Samantha L. Quigley It’s also important, he added, that those selected American Forces Press Service participate in the survey to ensure the best level Defense Department officials are preparing to of accuracy in the results. conduct the first militarywide survey to assess morale, welfare and recreation programs. Though the survey will be sent only to active- “We’ve established standards for all the servic- duty servicemembers, Myers encouraged those es,” Arthur Myers, acting deputy undersecretary selected to take their families’ opinions into con- of defense for military community and family sideration when responding. As more data is policy, said. “Now we want to get feedback from gained, future surveys will be open to the reserve the [servicemembers] on how we’re doing with our programs.” components, he added. Myers’ office is conducting the survey with the Those receiving the survey will have about help of CFI Group, an international customer- three weeks to participate. When the respons- satisfaction consulting firm with headquarters in es are collected and analyzed, the findings Ann Arbor, Mich. will be published on the Defense Department The survey will be e-mailed to about 150,000 randomly selected servicemembers in the near Web site, as well as on Military Community future and will appear as being from CFI Group and Family Policy’s Military OneSource and “on behalf of DoD.” MilitaryHomefront sites. “So, remember, when you get that, it’s not “This survey will actually tell us what [ser- -Photo by MC1 Heather Ewton spam,” Myers said. !->7
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812@ Mother’s Day Family Bowling Special Sunday, May 10, 2009 1-8 pm* at Mayport Bowling Center $25 Lane Rental Special Two (2) hours of bowling. Limit five (5) people per lane. Shoes included. PLUS ~ Bowl a strike with a colored head pin and win a free game pass! Reservations Recommended For info or reservations,   
  call (904) 270-5377. 

 
  *Bowling must be completed during facility’s operating hours (1-8 pm) . 8 THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 NMCRS Thanks Volunteers

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De Wert From Page 1 role De Wert played a key role value of more than $75 million. in stemming the flow of ille- His next assignment is with gal drugs into the United States, seizing more than six metric Carrier Strike Group Seven as tons of cocaine with an import the Surface Operations Officer. .

THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 9 FFSC Classes, Workshop Schedule Set From FFSC via discussion, video vignettes, to your child, helping children with other children their child’s your child, the four goals of eral times a year to local parks, The following classes and and handbook information. cooperate, discipline that makes age. All children age four and misbehavior, beliefs and feel- museums and playgrounds. activities are offered by the Participation in all 8 sessions is sense, and how to choose your below are invited to attend. ings, encouraging and listening This group is designed for Fleet and Family Support required. approach. Each week a differ- May 20, 8-11:30 a.m., Stress to your child, helping children moms new to the area or moms Center (FFSC) and are free May 13, 9 a.m.-noon, ent topic is thoroughly covered Management, Wellness Center cooperate, discipline that makes who want their child to interact of charge. Pre-registration is Tottletyme Playgroup, USO via discussion, video vignettes, May 21, 8-11 a.m., Anger sense, and how to choose your with other children their child’s required and childcare is not Parents and children together and handbook information. Management, FFSC approach. Each week a differ- age. All children age four and available. For more information meet to share parenting con- Participation in all 8 sessions is May 21, 9-11 a.m., Resume ent topic is thoroughly covered below are invited to attend. about the classes or to register cerns, ideas, and fun! The group required. Walk-In Review Assistance, via discussion, video vignettes, May 27, 6-7 p.m., Individual call 270-6600, ext. 110. FFSC invites professionals to address May 19, 9-11 a.m., Resume FFSC and handbook information. Augmentee (IA) Family is located in Building One on specific areas of concern such Walk-In Review Assistance, May 22, 9-11 a.m., Home Participation in all 8 sessions is Discussion Group, USO Massey Avenue. as nutrition, toilet training, etc. FFSC Buying, FFSC required. May 27, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., May 7, 9-11 a.m., Resume We even take field trips sev- May 20, 9 a.m.-noon, May 26, 9-11 a.m., Parenting May 26, 9-11 a.m., Resume Leadership Life Skills for E5 Walk-In Review Assistance, eral times a year to local parks, Tottletyme Playgroup, USO Class (8 Steps), FFSC Walk-In Review Assistance, & E6, Base Chapel FFSC museums and playgrounds. Parents and children together The program is based FFSC May 28, 9-11 a.m., Resume May 8, 9-11 a.m., Credit This group is designed for meet to share parenting con- on Dinkmeyer & McKay’s May 26, 1-3 p.m., Smooth Walk-In Review Assistance, Report, FFSC moms new to the area or moms cerns, ideas, and fun! The group Systematic Training for Move, FFSC FFSC May 11, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., who want their child to interact invites professionals to address Effective Parenting (8 STEPS). May 27, 9 a.m.-noon, May 29, 8 a.m.-noon, Military Spouse 101, FFSC with other children their child’s specific areas of concern such The program is designed to Tottletyme Playgroup, USO Leadership Life Skills for E4 May 11-14, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., age. All children age four and as nutrition, toilet training, etc. assist you and your family put Parents and children together & Below, Base Chapel TAP Retiree Workshop, below are invited to attend. We even take field trips sev- into practice the skills learned meet to share parenting con- June 2, 9-11 a.m., Parenting Building 1 Room 1044 May 14, 9-11 a.m., Resume eral times a year to local parks, in the class. Specific parent- cerns, ideas, and fun! The group Class (8 Steps), FFSC May 12, 9-11 a.m., Resume Walk-In Review Assistance, museums and playgrounds. ing skills that are discussed as invites professionals to address The program is based Walk-In Review Assistance, FFSC This group is designed for well as the challenges that are specific areas of concern such on Dinkmeyer & McKay’s FFSC May 15, 9-11 a.m., moms new to the area or moms faced by all families include: as nutrition, toilet training, etc. Systematic Training for May 12, 1:30-3:30 p.m., Establishing A Sound Family who want their child to interact understanding yourself and We even take field trips sev- Effective Parenting (8 STEPS). FERP-Troops to Teachers, Budget, FFSC FFSC May 18-21, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., May 12, 1-4 p.m., Leadership TAP Separatee Workshop, Life Skills for E7 & Above, Building 1 Room 1044 Base Chapel May 18, 8 a.m.-noon, FERP- May 12, 9-11 a.m., Parenting Career & Job Readiness Class (8 Steps), FFSC Class, FFSC The program is based May 18, 1-2:30 p.m., FERP- on Dinkmeyer & McKay’s Federal Employment Class, Systematic Training for FFSC Effective Parenting (8 STEPS). May 19, 9-11 a.m., Parenting The program is designed to Class (8 Steps), FFSC assist you and your family put The program is based into practice the skills learned on Dinkmeyer & McKay’s in the class. Specific parent- Systematic Training for ing skills that are discussed as Effective Parenting (8 STEPS). well as the challenges that are The program is designed to faced by all families include: assist you and your family put understanding yourself and into practice the skills learned your child, the four goals of in the class. Specific parent- misbehavior, beliefs and feel- ing skills that are discussed as ings, encouraging and listening well as the challenges that are to your child, helping children faced by all families include: cooperate, discipline that makes understanding yourself and sense, and how to choose your your child, the four goals of approach. Each week a differ- misbehavior, beliefs and feel- ent topic is thoroughly covered ings, encouraging and listening

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THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 11 USS Simpson Conducts TSC To Cartagena, Colombia

By USS Simpson Public Affairs the ability to respond multilater- The crew of USS Simpson ally to safeguard U.S. security. (FFG 56) conducted a Theater Simpson’s crew executed this Security Cooperation (TSC) mission flawlessly. visit in Cartagena, Colombia April 9-12. Simpson’s Sailors engaged the Colombians on many dif- ferent levels, from exercis- es designed to improve the interoperability of our Navies to projects aimed at improving the local community, all with the overall goal of furthering the United States’ relationship with Colombia and demonstrating a commitment to the region . Subject Matter Expert Exchanges were conduct- ed between Simpson’s crew -Photo courtesy of USS Simpson and the Armada Nacional de '@A01:@?
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in many different fields, includ- '59Caribbean success, but still had ample time Elementary School, and Nelson Forces, and Admiral Ordonez, to enjoy the local culture. The Mandela Monastery. The ele- Director of the Colombian entire TSC visit was setup by mentary schools each received Naval Academy. The directors a team of four of Simpson’s a toy pallet, while the nursing of the recipient charities were crew who traveled to Colombia home received medicinal, medi- also present at the reception. a month prior to the visit and cal, and hygiene pallets and the The reception was hosted by coordinated the events with monastery was presented with Simpson, but the Colombian the Colombian Navy and U.S. a pallet of sewing supplies, Navy worked closely with the Embassy. which will be used to make ship to ensure the night was a The focus of the visit was clothes for the local children. success, including arranging for TSC, designed to build and A total of seven pallets were a four piece music ensemble to strengthen effective partnerships donated to the local community. perform local music throughout and friendships, develop partner The Colombian Navy arranged the night. Simpson’s Culinary nation capabilities, and preserve the delivery of the pallets and Specialists served a five star

GI Bill From Page 1 would cover servicemembers three additional years of service who will reach the 20-year ser- after electing to transfer. vice mark, making them retire- The servicemember’s 36 ment-eligible, between Aug. 1, months of benefits – the equiv- 2009, and Aug. 1, 2013. alent of four nine-month aca- Clark explained the break- demic years – could be trans- down, which basically enables ferred to a spouse, one or more those affected to transfer ben- children or any combination, efits as long as they complete Clark said. 20 years of service: The family member must - Those eligible for retire- be enrolled in the Defense ment on Aug. 1, 2009, would Eligibility Enrollment Reporting be eligible to transfer their ben- System to receive the benefits. efits with no additional service Servicemembers also have requirement. - Those with an the option to use some benefits approved retirement date after themselves and transfer what Aug. 1, 2009, and before July they haven’t used to one or 1, 2010, would qualify with no additional service. more family members. - Those eligible for retirement Even after transferring the after Aug. 1, 2009, but before benefits, they remain the “prop- Aug. 1, 2010, would qualify erty” of the servicemember with one additional year of ser- who earned them, who can vice after electing to transfer revoke them or redesignate who their Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. receives them at any time. - Those eligible for retirement More details about the Post- between Aug. 1, 2010, and July 9/11 GI Bill are posted on 31, 2011, would qualify with the Defense Department and two additional years of service Department of Veterans Affairs after electing to transfer. Web sites, and the Pentagon’s - Those eligible to retire proposed transferability policy between Aug. 1, 2011, and July is on the Defense Department 31, 2012, would qualify with site. . 12 THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 Calendar Hooper will be our speaker. and bottled water. This program honor its graduating students A diversity of plant and ing native species, eradicating Out in Town His topic will be the Seminole will take place at the Ribault and the achievements of the animal species survive in exotic species, and creating an Indian Wars. This should be Club on Fort George Island students of the Alternative Florida̓s tropical environ- earth-friendly mini-environ- Wednesday, May 13 quite an informative and inter- Cultural State Park. Unlimited DBI Academy. ment, including both native ment on your property. This The Fleet Reserve esting meeting so please plan Join a park ranger at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome. The and exotic species. Join a park program will take place at the Association, Branch 290, invites to attend. For additional infor- for a walk on the beach as they church is located at 1996 ranger at 2 p.m. to learn how Ribault Club on Fort George you to participate in its “Wings- mation please contact, Mary explain the importance of unde- Mayport Road in Atlantic to identify exotic, non-native Island Cultural State Park. No N-Things” from 5- 8 p.m., at Chauncey at (904) 781-9300. veloped beach habitat, including Beach. RSVP by May 14 to animals and what you can do to reservations are necessary and the Branch Home, 390 Mayport Please feel free to bring your many interesting facts about sea James Stackhouse, 635-7065, help Florida’s natural commu- the program is free. Road, Atlantic Beach. Snacks four recipes for the JGS cook- creatures and common shells [email protected]. nities thrive with native plants Saturday, June 27 will be available for a donation book. found in the area. The program Sunday, June 7 and animals. This program will Join a park ranger at 2 p.m. to of $1.50 to $5. Then stay and Join a park ranger at 10 a.m. will take place at pavilion one Join a park ranger at 2 p.m. take place at the Ribault Club learn about the many common enjoy the music of Doug Bracey for a walk on the beach as they on Little Talbot Island. and learn about the lifecycle of on Fort George Island Cultural species that inhabit the natural the sea turtle and the importance from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. explain the importance of unde- Wednesday, May 20 State Park. No reservations are communities of the undevel- of these creatures. The program Thursday, May 14 veloped beach habitat, including Chamber At Noon, Ponte necessary and the program is oped barrier islands of northeast will take place at pavilion one The Duval County Extension many interesting facts about sea Vedra Chamber of Commerce free. Florida. The program will take Agency will hold a free pro- creatures and common shells Monthly Luncheon, Marsh on Little Talbot Island. No res- ervations are necessary and the Sunday, June 21 place at pavilion one on Little gram “Honey Bees” from 6-8 found in the area. The program Landing Country Club, 25655 Join a park ranger at 2 p.m. Talbot Island. No reservations p.m. at West Regional Library, will take place at pavilion one Marsh Landing Parkway, Ponte program is free with regular park admission. and learn how you can help are necessary and the program 1425 Chaffee Road South. on Little Talbot Island. Vedra Beach, FL 32082~11:30 Florida’s environment stay is free with regular park admis- Join a Park Ranger at 1 p.m. a.m.-1 p.m. The topic is Saturday, June 13 Come learn what flowers attract natural and healthy by plant- sion. honey bees to your yard and the for a leisurely paced hike to Sawgrass Village Renovations importance bees play in nature. discover the island’s natural presented by Ellen Smith- Learn about the caste system communities. Participants are Avery of Rogers Towers, P.A., (family) of bees in the hive and encouraged to bring bug spray Steve Lovett of Ervin, Lovett, their role in the existence of the and bottled water. This program & Miller, and Bill Baker of colony. Please call 387-8850 to will take place at the Ribault Endurance Properties, LLC. pre-register. Club on Fort George Island Sponsored by Rogers Towers, Saturday, May 16 Cultural State Park. P.A~ $20 For Members and $25 The Jacksonville Genealogical Sunday, May 17 for Guests~$30 at door. Please Society will hold their month- Join a Park Ranger at 10 RSVP by Monday, May 16. ly meeting at 1:30 p.m. in the a.m. for a leisurely paced hike Thursday, May 21 Webb-Wesconnett Branch to discover the island’s natural New Friendship Baptist Library. Grace has received communities. Participants are Church is hosting an Academic confirmation that Mr. Kevin encouraged to bring bug spray Awards Dinner at 7 p.m. to Learn How To Join NARFE From NARFE Florida Beaches” including to federal employees, retirees The National Association Atlantic, Neptune, Jacksonville, and their families. of Active and Retired Federal Ponte Vedra , Mayport and in Membership in NARFE Employees, (NARFE), was East Arlington. Chapter 1671 and the Florida Federation of organized on Feb. 19, 1921 by officers and members are avail- Chapters is open to civilians in federal retirees in Washington able for questions and informa- any agency of the federal gov- D.C. During the past 90 years tion about NARFE between ernment including: federal the organization has expanded 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday as members created chapters through Friday in April and employees, retirees, spouses throughout the nation and over- May. Call Joe Valsi, 221 7644 and former spouses of current seas. The chapters then orga- or Pat Powell, 992 4681. and retired federal employ- nized state federations to serve NARFE National Headquarters ees, former employees eligible as a link to the national organi- in Alexandria Virginia can be for deferred annuity, and sur- zation. The mission of NARFE reached at 1 800 456 8410. vivors of those eligible to join is to protect the earned benefits The Florida Federation of NARFE. of America’s current federal Chapters is one of the larg- NARFE is the only national employees, the retired federal est of the 54 federations in the organization dedicated to pro- workers and their families and association. There are about tecting the interests of current survivors. 22,000 members in 65 chap- federal employees, retirees and There are four NARFE chap- ters throughout the state. From their dependents. NARFE has ters in the Jacksonville area. these chapters, many dedicat- Chapter 1414 is in Orange Park, ed elected and appointed fed- had a remarkable success record Chapter 1984 is in Murray eration members make a strong and continues its mission of leg- Hill on the Westside. Chapter impact on state and national islative accountability by mem- 172 meets in the Regency area legislatures regarding legisla- bers of congress, membership and on the Northside. Chapter tion, health care concerns, and recruitment and retention, and 1671 is Chartered in the “North other issues that are important service to its members. .

THE MIRROR, NS MAYPORT, Thursday, May 7, 2009 13 Navy News VBSS: Evolving With The Mission By Ed Barker manding officer of USS Mahan themselves should the situation Naval Education and Training Com- (DDG 72), is currently operating arise. VBSS teams are on Navy mand Public Affairs as part of Combined Task Force ships throughout the world Whether it’s searching a (CTF) 151, a multi-national task 24/7, keeping the bad guys from Dhow in the Persian Gulf for force conducting counter-piracy hidden weapons, or boarding operations in the Gulf of Aden. smuggling everything from and inspecting a suspected “Time and again on this deploy- guns to cocaine.” pirate mothership off the coast ment, the investment in train- “VBSS teams are an all- of Somalia, Visit, Board, Search ing of my VBSS team has paid volunteer force, and gener- and Seizure (VBSS) teams are off,” said Murphy. “Whether in ally consist of young, athletic playing an important part in the support of the counter-narcot- Navy’s 21st century Maritime ics mission or our new, more Sailors that are gung-ho,” said Strategy. aggressive approach to stopping Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate Managed by the Center for piracy, extensive training and (SW) Michael Edwards, train- Security Forces (CENSECFOR) the teamwork and principles ing and readiness action officer in Norfolk, Va., formal VBSS of risk management that it has for Commander, Naval Surface training was created following instilled has resulted in safe Force Atlantic. “It’s an intense the first Gulf War in 1990 as mission accomplishment.” a way to standardize and con- Although anti-piracy opera- program that is challenging to tinue the Maritime Interception tions are getting the lion’s share complete, but the experience Operations introduced there as a of the news coverage, Martin and results are worth it. The result of U.N. Resolutions. notes that VBSS teams are not missions are interesting and var- “The course was designed to specifically trained for an anti- ied; as a VBSS team member standardize what was previously piracy mission. “You won’t find done through on-the-job train- the term ‘anti-piracy’ in any of afloat, life is never dull.” ing and passdown,” said Kurt the CENSECFOR VBSS train- For more information on the Martin, Anti-Terrorism Program -Photo by MC3 Brian K. Fromal ing curriculum,” added Martin. Center for Security Forces, Manager for CENSECFOR. 
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