A Life Lived of Dedicated Service ]Operation Get Fit by Jim Garamone Aug

Volume 56, Number 18 https://www.cnic.navy.mil/meridian ~ www.facebook.com/NASMeridian ~ Twitter: @nasmeridianms August 30, 2018 Base Senator John S. McCain: Aug. 29, 1936-Aug. 25, 2018 Events A life lived of dedicated service ]Operation Get Fit By Jim Garamone Aug. 1-Oct.1 at the Defense News Activity gym; meal plans included. United States senator and retired Navy Capt. John S. McCain died yesterday in Arizona after a long battle Call 679-2379. with cancer. He was 81. McCain chaired the Senate Armed Services Com- mittee, but it was his life of service and his heroism in ]MWR NAF Auction Vietnam that inscribed his name in the hearts of service Sept. 12-14 from members everywhere. “We have lost a man who steadfastly represented the 3-6 p.m and Sept. best ideals of our country,” Defense Secretary James N. 15 from 9 a.m.- Mattis said in a DoD release. “As a naval officer and defiant prisoner of war, John McCain stood with his noon. See page 6 brothers-in-arms until they returned home together.” for more details or =McCain, page 4 Call 679-2551. “While we mourn Senator ]The Great Navy McCain’s passing, we are Campout eternally grateful for his Sept. 21-22 from distinguished service to our 5 p.m-10 a.m. nation, his advocacy of the at Lake Martha. U.S. military and the incredible

Camping 101 example he set for us all.” DoD Photo tutorial provided. U.S. Sen. John McCain, left, is pictured with his father, Vice Admiral John McCain. Call 679-2526. Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, McCain Field at NAS Meridian is dedicated to Sen. McCain’s grandfather, Admiral Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff John S. McCain.

]Teen Board Game Day RP “A” School returns Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. at the Andrew to NAS Meridian Triplett Library. Jet Wash The Naval Chaplaincy School and Center (NCSC) will Call 679-2326. move from Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, to Naval Station (NS) Newport, Rhode Island, beginning in October 2018 with an expected completion by March 2019. NCSC, one of 12 learning centers under Naval Educa- tion and Training Command, moved to Fort Jackson in 2009 as part of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission when the school was known as the Naval Follow us on Chaplains School and only trained officers. NCSC today www.facebook. has evolved into a headquarters that develops and delivers com/NASMeridian religious ministry training both in traditional classrooms and at 13 locations through mobile training teams, span- and Twitter: ning initial to more advanced courses for the U.S. Navy’s @NASMeridianMS chaplains and enlisted religious program specialists (RP). RP “A” School, or initial skills training following boot camp, will begin at Naval Air Station Meridian, Mississip- pi, through a NCSC learning site in February 2019. Resi- dent officer training under NCSC’s Naval Chaplains School will return to its former home at NS Newport’s Brett Hall What’s in March 2019. Both relocations allow new officer and enlisted personnel the opportunity to develop as leaders and Sailors along- Inside side their Navy counterparts attending other training at both locations. Of NCSC’s staff, 14 military and seven civilian positions will move to Newport, and five military positions will move page 2: to Meridian. Almost 200 chaplains and 200 RPs graduate from NCSC Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat residence courses each year to prepare them to deliver Area Happenings Penny Randall, left, Capt. Brian Horstman, Dan Kalvaitis, Cmdr. Abram professional religious ministry to the U.S. Navy, U.S. Ma- Stroot and Lt. Scott Hook, standing in for Lt. Cmdr. Darci Hook, wash the rine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Merchant Marine. jet outside the Administration building onboard Naval Air Station Meridian, Another 600 chaplains and 300 RPs receive professional Aug. 17. The team was chosen by military and civilian employees to wash development training annually through mobile training the jet as part of a fundraising campaign for the 2018 Navy Ball page 6: teams. --From Naval Education and Training WWII Marine aviator Command

page 7: Supply Award PW Civilian of the Year FSBO or Rent: 4BD/2.5 BA One Level Brick Home

page 9:

Military spouses meeting

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Photo by Adam Prince David Chisolm, left, receives the Navy Region Southeast Public page 8 Lt. Marcus Caldwell, supply officer for NAS Meridian, right, Works Wage Grade Employee of the Year Award from Naval Air ~ ~ presents the Junior GS Civilian of the Quarter award to Curtis Station (NAS) Meridian Commanding Officer Capt. Brian Johnson, a Facilities Fuels Operations Specialist at NAS Meridi- Horstman in front of the water plant onboard NAS Meridian, Aug. Hurricane Lane and. Johnson was selected as the Junior Civilian of the Quarter 22. Chisolm volunteered to locate, verify and map all water, fire drenches Hawaii by Naval Facilities Command for the Southeast Region. “Mr. main lines and associated valves over the entire base. This was Johnson is an outstanding employee and we’re proud to be able a monumental task and required numerous hours tracing water/ to recognize him in this way,” Caldwell said. fire lines and locating/operating valves. 2 The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018 Photo of Week A Day in Naval History ~ Aug. 28, 1942 ~

One hundred twenty women are commissioned as ensigns or lieutenant junior grades as WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) and report to “USS Northampton,” Smith College, Northampton, Mass. WAVES was established on July 21, 1942 by Congress and signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on July 30, 1942. This authorized the U.S. Navy to accept women into the Naval Reserve as commissioned officers and at the enlisted level, effective for the duration of the war plus six months. The purpose of the law was to release officers and men for sea duty and replace them with women in shore establishments.

Photo by Sgt. Aaron S. Patterson ~ Sept. 1, 1942 ~ Participants run through a cloud of colored powder during the 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment’s 5K Color Dash at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Aug. 18. The United States Naval Air Force, Pacific Fleet is established. Vice Adm. Aubrey W. Fitch assumes duties of this administrative command that replaces the commands Carriers, Area Happenings Pacific Fleet and Patrol Wings, Pacific Fleet. Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander in Chief, United States September Pacific Fleet directed a consolidation 8: Variety Sale from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at The Meridian Little Theatre. of various administrative functions for There will be a little bit of everything for sale. Great prices. Call a more efficient command structure. 601-482-6271. 14: Barrel Racing at 7:30 p.m. at the Lauderdale County Agri-Center. Training 5 p.m.; show starts at 7:30 p.m. $3 gate fee for spectators. Call Lisa at 601-482-8498. 18: How to navigate the path of a lay caregiver from 10 a.m.-noon Navy News Briefs at the Meridian Community College Workforce Center. This is a free seminar for professional caregivers and lay caregivers. 13th MEU Marine Lost at Sea Identified Call 228-679-8233. The Marine at the center of the Es- Currier was assigned to Marine 20: Brown Bag Lunch at The MAX from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the sex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 at Ma- 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) rine Corps Air Station, Miramar, and was Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience. Spend your lunch hour search in the Mindanao Sea since August deployed at the time of his disappearance at the Citizens National Bank Courtyard at The MAX with 9 has been identified as Cpl. Jonathan with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron entertainment by Aa’Keela Hudnall. Free and open to the public. Call Currier. 166 Reinforced, 13th MEU, aboard the On Aug. 17, Currier who was previ- USS Essex (LHD 2). 601-581-1550. ously listed as Duty Status Whereabouts Currier’s awards include the National 22: Governor’s Ride for Wounded Warriors from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Unknown (DUSTWUN) was declared de- Defense Service Medal and Global War Ride starts in Hattiesburg and ends in Gulfport. Proceeds go to the ceased. on Terrorism Service Medal. Currier, a New Hampshire native and “Our hearts go out to the Currier fam- Mississippi Wounded Warrior Project. Call 601-482-4131. a Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion ily,” said Col. Chandler Nelms, command- 27: Chicks with Hits at 7:30 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center. Three crew chief, enlisted in the Marine Corps ing officer, 13th MEU. “Cpl. Currier’s loss top country music stars sit on stage with acoustic guitars, making in August 2015 and graduated from Ma- is felt by our entire ARG/MEU family, rine Corps Recruit Depot, Paris Island, and he will not be forgotten.” you feel like you just dropped by their house for a little music, a few in November of that year. He completed The extensive search effort concluded, stories, and a lot of fun. Tickets are $52; call 601-696-2200. School of Infantry at Camp Lejeune, Aug. 13. The search lasted five days and North Carolina; Aviation and A&C School covered more than 13,000 square nauti- October in Pensacola, Florida; and Center for Na- cal miles with more than 110 sorties and 8-14: Queen City Fair from 4-10 p.m. at the Lauderdale County val Aviation Training in Jacksonville, 300 flight hours. --From 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs Agri-Center. The fair features the areas largest midway with over 30 North Carolina. thrill rides for all ages. Entertainment includes: the Swifty Swine Racing Pigs, chainsaw artist, petting zoo and Little Miss Queen City Fair Pageant. $7 gate admission; Call 601-934-4867. USNS Comfort supports humanitarian 11-16: Singin’ in The Rain at the Meridian Little Theatre. mission in Latin America Performances run Thursday through Tuesday nightly at 7 p.m. with USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) will deploy be accomplished when partners work to- the exception of a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday. Tickets are $22 or $20; to Central America and South America gether to aid people in need,” said Adm. in late September to begin a two-month Kurt Tidd, commander of U.S. Southern military discount available; call 601-482-6371. humanitarian mission with stops in Co- Command, which will oversee the deploy- lombia and the region. ment. Ongoing During the deployment, military med- “Because this mission is humanitar- Earth’s Bounty from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Singing Brakeman Park. Event ical personnel will work alongside our ian in nature, it will focus on the people is the first Saturday of the month from April to November. Call partners to provide needed medical assis- we’re assisting, on the nations we’re part- 601-485-1944. tance, according to the needs defined by nering with, and on the region we’re sup- each stop. porting together.” Meridian Art Walk from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at 1901 Front Street. Event is The USNS Comfort support in Co- This marks the sixth hospital ship the first Saturday of the month from April to November. Email lombia was requested by the Colombian deployment to the region since 2007 and [email protected]. government to relieve the pressure of in- reflects the United States’ steadfast com- creased population flows from Venezuela mitment of friendship and solidarity with on their national health system. the Americas. “This mission is a symbol of what can --From U.S. Southern Command Public Affairs

Nurse Corps officers wish WWII Navy nurse happy 100th birthday

Five Navy Nurse Corps officers as- you entered active duty as a Navy nurse, signed to Navy Medicine Training Sup- volunteering to serve during one of the port Center (NMTSC) and Navy Medi- most difficult periods in our nation’s his- NAS Meridian NMCRS cine Education, Training and Logistics tory. You put country before self, serving Command (NMETLC) visited the San from Aug. 7, 1942 to Sep. 28, 1948. From Office is open on Tuesdays Antonio Brookdale Assisted Living Facil- the battlefield of Attu Island, Alaska, to ity to wish Blondina Porter, a World War hospitals and clinics on both US coasts II Navy Nurse, a happy 100th birthday, and in Hawaii, your service as a Navy from 8 a.m.-noon & Thursdays Aug. 15. nurse made a difference, touching count- Capt. Maryann Mattonen, command- less lives while blazing a path for future from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. ing officer of NMTSC, presented a Navy Navy nurses and our Navy Nurse Corps. Nurse Corps birthday letter to Porter on Nurses are there for life’s first breath, behalf of Rear Adm. Tina Davidson, di- and they are there for its last. Just as im- Call 601-679-2504. rector, Navy Nurse Corps, and command- portant, they are there for all the years in er, NMETLC. between, helping patients breathe easier, Administration Building 255, Mattonen read aloud the letter signed literally and figuratively. Thank you for by Davidson: “On behalf of the Navy the countless patients you have helped, Nurse Corps, Happy 100th Birthday! On and thank you for being there for our Suite 283 behalf of all Navy nurses – past, present Sailors, Marines and Soldiers serving, and future – thank you for serving our na- some who perhaps were taking their last tion and our Navy as a Navy nurse. Eight breath. May this birthday be your best.” months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, --By MC2 Shayla D. Hamilton, Navy Medicine Training Support Center

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 ~ August 30, 2018 3 Eight aviators earn ‘Wings of Gold’ in August pinning ceremony

There was a naval aviator designation ceremony Aug. 24 on board Naval Air Station Meridian. Eight 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 product 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 demands of aerial Albrecht Bruno Blakenship Jr. Duden IV combat and carrier operations -- earning each the title of “Naval Aviator” and the right to wear the coveted “Wings of Gold.” =Winging, page 8 Golden Stick

Howard Rusek Sharp Warner

Command Quarters

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Mississippi Council of the Navy League member Arjen Lagendijk, left, presents the Golden Stick award to Royal Naval Aviator Lt. Thomas Warner during a winging ceremony at the chapel onboard Naval Air Station Meridian, Aug. 24. The award is presented to the student aviator from a graduating class with the highest composite score.

Public Works

Photo by MC1 Chris Liaghat Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian Sailors receive awards during the monthly command quarters at the Air Operations building onboard NAS Meridian, Aug. 16. Presented during the ceremony were three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, three flag letters of commendation, two certificates of appreciation and one Air Traffic Controller of the Month Award.

U.S. 2nd Fleet re-established

Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) revealed a new crest and motto, designed to represent the fleet’s new mission, Aug. 22, prior to the establishment ceremony on Aug. 24 in Norfolk, Virginia. The symbolism is rich and reflective of the - pur pose of C2F. The logo’s centerpiece is a shield divided into two points. The top of the shield, the chief, is blue and signifies vigilance, perseverance and justice, while the bottom of the shield, the base, is divided into red and white pales. The red signifies military strength and courage, while white signifies integrity and peace. The field is charged with the number “2,” indicating the numbered fleet, as well as unification in achieving the Navy’s mission in addressing changes in the security environment. Atop the shield is perched a bald eagle, the ultimate symbol of freedom, with its fierce, dominant talons representing the lethal maritime ca- pabilities of the command. The shield is supported by a trident, an ancient symbol of the sea representing U.S. Navy graphic illustration power and control over the ocean. The official crest for the re-establishment of Commander, Furthermore, the crest is emblazoned in full color U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F), which will report to Commander, on a geographical map centered on the North Atlantic U.S. Fleet Forces Command. Ocean, adjoining land masses signifying our enduring relationships with partners and allies. The three stars signify the rank of a vice admiral, who will command C2F. U.S. Naval Fleets: The motto, “Ready to Fight,” personifies the spirit and dedication of the command, which maintains and **US Navy fleets are numbered odd in the equips maritime assets enhancing interoperability Pacific or West, and even in the Atlantic or and lethality against foreign and domestic enemies East: who threaten regional or national security. “Our new crest signifies our dedication and re- newed focus on naval operations on the East Coast ] 2nd Fleet (HQ Norfolk, Virginia) - and North Atlantic,” said Vice Adm. Andrew “Woody” Homeland Defense, North Atlantic Ocean. Lewis, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet. “Building from ] our rich legacy, we wanted to pay homage to the old 3rd Fleet (HQ San Diego, California) – 2nd Fleet by including some aspects of the original East Pacific Submitted photos crest – the eagle, the trident, the shield, and the map ] 4th Fleet (HQ Mayport, Florida) – Top: Danny Rose, Larry Joyner and Scott Knuth fin- in the background – but the new crest signifies our ished annual maintenance at Sea Ray Target Range mission going forward, which addresses a new secu- South Atlantic by completing the Buffer Zone, Run-in lanes, and rity environment and the modern warfighter.” ] 5th Fleet (HQ Manama, Bahrain) – reshaping the target recently. This included realign- U.S. 2nd Fleet, to be headquartered in Norfolk, Middle East ing and painting 3,000 tires, disking the target area Virginia, will exercise operational and administra- ] and reshaping the target with a dozer. Middle: Joey tive authorities over assigned ships, aircraft and 6th Fleet (HQ Naples, Italy) – Parry and Josh Maxwell hydro excavate and repair landing forces on the East Coast and the North At- Europe a broken underground pipe at near the health clinic. lantic Ocean. Additionally, it will plan and conduct ] 7th Fleet (HQ Yokosuka, Japan) – Hydro excavating prevents any unnecessary under- maritime, joint and combined operations and will ground utility strikes near the facility. Bottom: Eric train and recommend certification of combat-ready West Pacific Jefferies and Detrick Drake complete repairs to a naval forces for maritime employment and operations ] 10th Fleet (HQ Fort Meade, Maryland) – concrete joint sealant at the airfield. around the globe. C2F will report to USFF. Fleet Cyber Command. --From Naval Education and Training Command 4 The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018

=McCain Cain underwent months of grueling McCain, the grandson and son of physical therapy and was returned to four-star Navy admirals, was captured flight status. He commanded a training in North Vietnam in 1967. He was squadron in Florida and then served as wounded in ejecting from his aircraft. the Navy’s liaison to the U.S. Senate. He The North Vietnamese sought to gain retired as a captain in 1981. His mili- propaganda by torturing him into ask- tary decorations include the Silver Star, ing for an out-of-sequence release. He two Legions of Merit, the Distinguished refused to leave. He spent more than Flying Cross, three Bronze Star medals, five years in the Hanoi Hilton. two Purple Hearts and the Prisoner of “Passionately committed to our coun- War Medal. try, Senator McCain always put service McCain was elected to the U.S. to the nation before self,” Mattis wrote. House of Representatives and then to “He recognized that for our experiment the U.S. Senate from Arizona. He joined in democracy to long endure, people of the Senate Armed Services Commit- action and passion must serve. In this tee in 1987, and championed getting he represented what he believed, that ‘a soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and shared purpose does not claim our iden- Coast Guardsmen what they needed. tity -- on the contrary, it enlarges your He also took the time to listen to their sense of self.’” concerns and went directly to the front- McCain graduated from the U.S. Na- lines to hear from them. val Academy in 1958. He trained as an “Senator McCain recognized the sac- aviator and volunteered for service as a rifice and hardships military members Navy pilot in Vietnam. and their families can experience and “Senator McCain exemplified what proudly served as their champion in it means to be a warrior and dedicated Congress,” Dunford said. “He visited public servant,” Marine Corps Gen. our nation’s wounded warriors around Joe Dunford, the chairman of the Joint the country to offer encouragement and Chiefs of Staff, said in a written release. to thank them for their service. Through “Both as a naval officer and as a mem- his tenacious and selfless leadership in PAO File Photo ber of Congress, he was a lifelong and the Senate, he fought hard to ensure our Senator John McCain, his wife and daughter are joined by Capt. John Wood, former tireless advocate for the men and wom- armed forces remained strong and had commodore of Training Air Wing One, left, and Capt. Russell Knight, former NAS en of the U.S. military.” the support and resources needed to Meridian commanding Officer in March 2008. McCain was the guest of honor at air show Upon returning from Vietnam, Mc- succeed when placed in harm’s way.” that the base was hosting that weekend.

The price-less gifts brought For Sale By Owner/Military 555 Nature’s Way, Meridian Now Leasing 2058 sq. ft. home from deployments Northeast Sch. Dist. 3BR/2BA. Beautiful, brick home 1-2 Bedroom Apartments on large fenced corner lot in quiet I have a drawer early age. And Hayden got airline snacks, subdivision -The Meadows. Separate COLUMN dinette, 10 ft. ceilings, triple crown at home filled with which he was only too happy to rip open molding throughout. Stained glass loving gifts from and consume on the spot. 2-3 Bedroom Homes accents, Open concept floor plan. my husband, Fran- Central vac syst. Master bath has oversized Jacuzzi tub, sep. shower cis. They are things But as the kids grew older, the novelty & sep. water closet for toilet. Energy he picked up while wore off. • Newly Remodeled efficient w/central gas heat & electric on military travel or “Another trinket box?” Anna would heat pump, two (50) gal. hot water heaters. Stainless steel appliance deployments during complain. and washer and dryer stay. Large walk- his 28 years in the “These cookies are stale,” Hayden • Convenient Location in pantry located off kitchen. Sec. syst, Navy. He would would comment. and underground sprinkler system. arrive home, and no “Here’s more soap and shampoo, • Move In Special $229,500 matter how travel- Mom,” Lilly would say, handing it all (601) 679-5055 weary he was, he’d over to me for the bathroom drawer. Please note, that in MS there is gather up our fam- Although I sometimes dreamed of no property tax levied if buyer is 100% VA service connected ily and give each Francis coming home with an Italian Lisa Smith Molinari disabled and over 65 qualifies for of us a memento of leather handbag or an exotic piece of LARGE tax deduction! 48702-1 his trip. Asian art, I couldn’t deny that the free What were these stuff came in quite handy. We never wor- precious items that Francis so thought- ried about running out of lotion or tooth- fully picked out for us while he was paste. And when guests came to visit, I away? Czechoslovakian crystal, you ask? would make them a hospitality basket 4907 Shumate Rd. No. Italian leather goods? Naw. Japanese and place it beside their bed. Nothing pearls? Nope. Mexican silver? Huh uh. says class like funky Korean teabags and Chinese silk? Negative. African art? Well, a shoe horn from Holiday Inn Express! 601-402-9090 yes, if you count those bongos we had to In fact, I received so many hotel-sized rentredbud.com 131675-1 throw away because they smelled like toiletries from Francis over the years, I rotten animal hide, and those clay masks became quite the connoisseur, which is that scared the bejesus out of the kids. a fancy way of saying that I developed While I must admit that Francis did a strange case of OCD. I would sort the give me a lovely set of enameled jewelry items in the drawer, putting only the best from an airport in Kuwait, a suitcase full quality matched sets out for guests, and of Polish pottery after a trip to Warsaw, squirreling the rest away. I couldn’t wait a bottle of pisco from Chile that could for someone to forget a toothbrush or ask MCRAE REALTY COMPANY sprout hair on your chest, and Persian for lotion so that I could open my drawer rugs that put us deeply in debt, the most and solve their problem. common souvenir Francis brought home Finally, after my drawerful PCSed ROLLING HILLS SUBDIVISION from his trips were more economical with us twice, I knew I needed to dial items. back my hotel-toiletry obsession. Our APARTMENTS FOR RENT: And by economical, I mean free. church was doing its annual drive for You see, that drawer of gifts from items for the homeless, so I donated the Francis is actually in our bathroom. It’s whole lot, cold turkey. 2 Bd/1 bath with W/D hookups filled with hotel soap, mini shampoos, The drawer is full again, because even tiny bottles of lotion, shower caps, sewing though Francis can afford to buy me kits and shoe mits. He also brought us nice souvenirs, giving hotel freebies has Location in Marion Ms. consumables like hotel teabags and air- become our tradition. Ever since Francis line snacks — mostly pretzels or cookies, transitioned from the military to the because he couldn’t resist the peanuts. corporate world, he stays at better hotels Off Hwy 45 N/Confederate Drive When the kids were little, Francis’ with cooler stuff to swipe. When Francis thoughtfulness was charming. Some- went to Boston last month, I got mango Reasonably priced. times he’d put the hotel and airline free- ginger tea bags and a tiny loofa sponge. bees in trinket boxes he’d buy cheap from Not too shabby. street vendors. Other times, he’d just use Francis’ travel gifts may not have a Call McRae Realty @ 601 693-2067 for info or the vomit bags from the airplane seat price tag, but the way I see it, the luxury backs, which were the perfect size. When of having a shower cap when you need the kids would open their bags or boxes, one is truly priceless. Visit www.mcraerentalproperties.com they would squeal with delight. Lilly Lisa Smith Molinari’s self syndicated columns appear would use the tiny bottles and soaps to on her blog, www.themeatandpotatoesoflife.com and play house with her American Girl doll. she recently co-authored Stories Around the Table: THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE The sewing kits went to Anna, who was Laughter, Wisdom, and Strength in Military Life Follow obsessed with fashion design from an Lisa@MolinariWrites. 110010-1

94 year-old veteran receives World War II medals after 72 years By MC2 Jonathan Jiang “He put in a lot of work,” said Bruce Coleman, Gilbert’s Navy Office of Community Outreach son. “I feel really good that they finally recognized him as a veteran.” A 94-year old World War II veteran received his long over- VA psychologist, Gina Salisbury, learned about the issue due medals during a ceremony at the Louisville Veterans Af- on her initial visit with Gilbert and helped him take action. fairs (VA) Medical Center in Louisville, Kentucky, Aug. 23. Salisbury consulted with VA geriatrics and extended care so- Rear Adm. Michael Jabaley, former Program Executive cial worker, Tina Strobel, who worked with the National Ar- Officer for Submarines, awarded William Edward Gilbert, a chives to retrieve the medals. Kentucky native, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World “It’s probably the coolest day at the VA that I’ve ever had, War II Victory Medal and American Campaign Medal during and I’ve worked here for over 10 years,” said Salisbury. “It just Louisville Navy Week. really makes my job meaningful, being able to give back to In his opening speech, Jabaley spoke about the importance veterans that have served our country.” of honoring our surviving World War II veterans. Friends and family were at the ceremony to share in this “There are not many of them left and the ones that are, moment, including his son, Bruce and daughter-in-law, Wan- we need to treasure, and we need to take every opportunity da. to make sure they get the recognition that they so richly de- “I’m overjoyed,” said Wanda. “I wish all my children serve,” said Jabaley. could’ve been here to witness this. I wish that everybody that Photo by MC2 Jonathan Jiang` Gilbert was drafted into the U.S. Navy from January 6, I know could witness this. I’m just overjoyed.” Rear Adm. Michael Jabaley pins the Asiatic- 1943, until his honorable discharge in January 11, 1946. He After the awards, Gilbert addressed the audience, express- Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory served as a Steward’s Mate aboard the South Dakota-class ing his feelings at finally receiving the medals and the value Medal and American Campaign Medal on battleship USS Indiana (BB 58) in the Pacific Theater, earn- of perseverance. William Edward Gilbert at Louisville Veterans ing the medals he would receive 72 years later. “Never give up,” said Gilbert. Affairs Medical Center in Louisville, Ky. The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018 5 Pfc. Daniel Pate Pfc. Nathaniel Santiago

MATSS-1 Student MATSS-1 Student Hometown: Temple, Texas OOORAH! Hometown: Jersey City, N.J. Pfc. Santiago joined the Marine Corps Pfc. Pate joined the Marine Corps March 19 looking to take on new chal- Dec. 8, 2017, hoping to provide a better lenges and push himself past his limits. future for his family. His most memorable experience from He enjoys playing football for the boot camp happened more than once. “I physicality and making music for the remember getting yelled at by every Drill mental and emotional rewards. Instructor because I smile too much.” His most memorable experience for His positive outlook is evident is his ap- boot camp was trying to roll his sleeves proach to being a Marine. “It doesn’t mat- just like his drill instructors. “I remem- ter where I get stationed after MATSS-1; ber being very frustrated because I as long as I can be a Marine,” Santiago couldn’t do it right at first,” Pate said. said. He hopes to become a better person He admires Capt. America. “He’s a self- and Marine throughout his career. “I sacrificing hero who always does what looking forward to becoming a well-or- is morally right and never gives up,” he ganized, suitable role model for others, said. he said.”

One of the last living WWII Marine fighter pilots By Pfc. Ryan Persinger about 40 pilots and only eight or of combat operations than they 1st Marine Aircraft Wing 10 planes, so as you can imagine ever did through their training. none of us got much training,” Later, Folsom and his squad- Sam Folsom, born July 24, Folsom said. ron had found themselves above 1920 in Quincy, Massachusetts, Folsom arrived to the Island another bomber formation. The was one of the first echelon of 17 Oct. 8. bombers had already attacked Marine fighter pilots with Ma- The first few days of combat and were returning home when rine Fighter Squadron 121 tasked were rough for Folsom. In train- Folsom dived down and closed in with defending Guadalcanal. He ing the highest they had ever on the two bombers. is also one of the last living Ma- flown was roughly 10,000 feet “I closed in on two Japanese rine Corps WWII combat pilot. and previously Folsom had only bombers, one of which was di- It was the summer of 1941, fired his guns once in a training rectly in my sights and I shot him while Folsom was attending a exercise. Then suddenly his unit down,” Folsom said. “I pulled over flight training program in Jack- was sent on a mission dispatched to the side and I shot down the sonville, Florida, that the un- at 30,000 feet where they found other one. It was just like a train- thinkable happened. themselves above a Japanese for- ing exercise.” “I was lying in my bunk in Flor- mation of G4M Betty Bombers Eventually, Folsom was com- ida,” Folsom recalled. “I turned on with an escort of fighter planes. pletely out of ammunition and the radio and it blared out ‘Pearl When they dived down to attack flew back to base. The Japanese Harbor has been attacked’, so I Folsom lost control. After recov- fighter planes escorting the bomb- did what any patriotic American ering and regaining control, he ers closed in on Folsom. Folsom would’ve done. I jumped to my closed in on the bombers and found himself in a dogfight with- feet, got dressed and ran to the pulled the trigger only to find out out any means of defense. His door as fast as I could.” his guns wouldn’t fire. Due to the plane was shot multiple times, Folsom completed training lack of flying experience at this but he still managed to escape at the end of 1942 and received altitude the unit didn’t realize and make it back to base. orders to Miramar, California, that lubricating the weapons be- Folsom said that wasn’t the where he checked into his new fore flying would freeze the lubri- only time he found himself in a unit, VMF-122. Later, the squad- cant at this high of an altitude. dogfight without ammunition. Courtesy photo ron was combined with another to “I never remember being On one occasion, Folsom was at- World War II veteran Sam Folsom flew the Grumman F4F Wildcat form VMF-121. Folsom’s assigned frightened,” he said. “Just mad as tacked by approximately six Jap- during his time of service in Guadalcanal in late 1942. His fighter plane was a Grumman hell going through this with your anese fighter planes, which dam- squadron, Marine Fighter Squadron 121, was the highest scoring F4F Wildcat which he trained in life on the line and having my aged his plane and wounded his Marine fighter squadron of WWII and received the presidential unit for months before his unit was guns not firing.” left leg. citation. During Folsom’s time with VMF-121, he shot down three sent overseas to New Caledo- Folsom and the other pilots After his three-month tour in total enemy aircrafts and received the Purple Heart and the nia briefly, before being sent to had to return to base considering Guadalcanal he was transferred Distinguished Flying Cross. Guadalcanal in early September, the conditions of their weapons. to Samoa, ending his time with and the Purple Heart for his ac- er plane. He continued his career 1942. Towards the end of the squad- VMF-121. During Folsom’s time tions in Guadalcanal. In total, he in the Marine Corps and served “I spent six or eight months on ron’s tour, the pilots received with VMF-121 he was awarded shot down two Japanese Betty nearly 18 years, retiring in 1960 the west coast in a squadron with more experience flying in support the Distinguished Flying Cross Bombers and one Japanese fight- as a lieutenant colonel.

TANDUO BEACH, Malaysia Camp Pendleton, California

Photo by Staff Sgt. Joshua Jackson Photo by Lance Cpl. Noah Rudash Two soldiers with the Malaysian Armed Forces find concealment in smoke during Recovering service members, veterans, volunteers and their loved ones surf during an amphibious raid with U.S. Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit the 12th Annual Operation Amped Surf Camp at San Onofre Beach at Marine Corps during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training 2018. Base Camp Pendleton, California, Aug. 18. Safety & Energy Efficiency is Our Duty 6 The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018

NAS Meridian, MS • Morale, Welfare and Recreation On the Web: www.navymwrmeridian.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MWRMeridian

Facility Phone Numbers

Fitness Center 679-2379 Library 679-2326 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 2018 MWR NAF Auction Attractions September 12-14 • 3pm-6pm & September 15 • 9am-12pm McCain Rec (Closed-bid silent auction) McCain Rec Center Center Thursday, August 30 Viewing and bidding are open on all dates to individuals with general base access. Friday, September 7 5 p.m., Surf’s Up, PG The Friday (14th) and Saturday (15th) auctions are also open to the general public, 5 p.m., Coraline, PG 7 p.m., Pulp Fiction, R but only those who follow special access request procedures. To request 7 p.m., Planes, Trains and Automobiles, R Friday, August 31 access, email [email protected] by noon on September 3. Saturday, September 8 5 p.m., Little Rascals, PG 1 p.m., Ferdinand, PG 7 p.m., Godzilla, PG13 Successful bidders will be notified on September 17. Payment and item pick-up will 5 p.m., Tully, R be available that week, September 17-21, during the hours of 8am-6pm. All 7 p.m., Planes, Trains and Automobiles, R Saturday, September 1 items must be payed for and picked up by 6pm on September 21. 1 p.m., The Lorax, PG Sunday, September 9 5 p.m., Fatal Attraction, R Auction will include (but is not limited to): campers, jon boats/canoes, pool tables, restaurant 1 p.m., Ice Age, PG 7 p.m., Godzilla, PG13 equipment and supplies, tables/chairs, vehicles, outdoor equipment and indoor appliances 5 p.m., Deadpool 2, R 7 p.m., Fatal Attraction, R Sunday, September 2 1 p.m., Surf’s Up, PG Monday, September 10 5 p.m., Pulp Fiction, R 5 p.m., Surf’s Up, PG 7:30 p.m., Fatal Attraction, R 7 p.m., Pulp Fiction, R Monday, September 3 Tuesday, September 11 5 p.m., Ice Age, PG 5 p.m., Storks, PG 7 p.m., Deadpool 2, R 7 p.m., Platoon, R Tuesday, September 4 Wednesday, September 12 5 p.m., Coraline, PG 5 p.m., Sherlock Gnomes, PG 7 p.m., Planes, Trains and Automobiles, R 7 p.m., Life of the Party, PG13 Wednesday, September 5 Thursday, September 13 5 p.m., Ferdinand, PG 5 p.m., Surf’s Up, PG 7 p.m., Tully, R 7 p.m., Pulp Fiction, R Thursday, September 6 Friday, September 14 5 p.m., Ice Age, PG 5 p.m., Storks, PG 7 p.m., Deadpool 2, R navymwrmeridian.com 7 p.m., Platoon, R The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018 7

HIIT COMPETITION Sports September 20 • 1100- 1300 at the Fitness Center NOFFS Box

CAPTAIN’S CUP FLAG FOOTBALL REGISTRATION: AUGUST 27 - SEPTEMBER 27 LEAGUE PLAY: OCTOBER 1 - DECEMBER 13 MONDAYS & THURSDAYS

Join us for a test of strength, edurance and functional fitness at the NOFFS Box where we’ll battle it out for For questions, or to register, call (601) 679-2367. Captain’s Cup points and bragging rights!

The competition is open to individuals or teams of two or more. Workouts will be determined by Fitness Staff.

navymwrmeridian.com LIFT THE GYM SEPTEMBER 1 - OCTOBER 31

THE GYM = APPROX. 20,000 POUNDS

PARTICIPANTS MUST LOG THEIR HEAVIEST WEIGHT LIFTED EACH SESSION (MACHINES OR FREE WEIGHTS) AND SUBMIT IT TO THE TRAINER ON STAFF OR THE FRONT DESK. TOTALS MUST BE LOGGED ON THE DAY OF COMPLETION TO COUNT. ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON PER DAY.

THE TRAINERS/FITNESS SUPERVISOR WILL TALLY THE TOTAL POUNDS AND MAINTAIN INDIVIDUAL LOG SHEETS FOR EACH PARTICIPANT. WEEKLY TOTALS WILL BE POSTED ON MONDAYS ON THE FITNESS INFO BOARD.

navymwrmeridian.com One rate, many jobs

By MCSA Sophie Pinkham we’re moving an aircraft in the middle of the hangar After-School Arts USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs bay and the waves are out of control. That’s some real excitement.” The Meridian Museum of Art is An aircraft carrier in the United States Navy plays On the other hand, Aviation Boatswain’s Mate a significant role in global operations. Behind the (Handling) 3rd Class Shelby Falsetti who reported to offering after-school art classes for steel frame that encompasses the ship is a crew which the Ike two weeks before the ship’s last deployment in local students. Classes begin at 4 p.m. executes the roles vital to the mission. The ship’s air 2016, finds that the V-1 division is more her niche. department is distributed throughout five divisions “I found out I was going to V-3 when I came to the at the museum from Sept. 6 through and is an imperative asset to the crew. boat,” said Falsetti, “but I really wanted to be on the Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class flight deck.” Nov. 29. Shanterica Green promptly found out that it would Falsetti did everything that she could to show her be a completely different lifestyle than she expected chain of command that the flight deck is where she when she checked aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower wanted to be. All classes will offer progressive, (CVN 69) (Ike). “I would work 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day and then skill-based art lessons in a studio Her basic or “A-school” provided her with the fun- I’d come up to the flight deck and I’d work night opera- damental knowledge to perform her job, however, the tions until they were over,” said Falsetti. setting. Students will receive on-the-job training she has received since her arrival As an ABH in V-1, Falsetti plays a role in control- instruction highly-qualified art has been the critical hands-on experience necessary ling the aircraft movement primarily on the flight for her to excel. deck. Knowing that billions of dollars worth of air- instructor with focuses in drawing, “They taught us how to be an ABH on the flight craft are in her hands is an enormous responsibility. painting, pottery and multi-media. deck, so coming to V-3 was a complete shock,” said Whether it be aircraft, catapults, or arresting gear, Green. “I didn’t know what the hangar bay was, I there are many different moving parts requiring her didn’t know exactly what to do or what exactly my job to keep her “head on a swivel”. As a part of the crash was going to be.” and salvage team, she’s responsible for any type of The Meridian Museum of Art is open V-3 division’s responsibilities include keeping the firefighting evolution; rescue and salvage drill; and Tuesdays through Saturdays from hangar bay in good condition and maintaining the air- any casualty that occurs on the flight deck. craft that are in it, along with moving them around “It’s fast-paced. There’s always something going 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Call 601-693-1501. and up to the flight deck on the aircraft elevator. on, and the days go by a lot quicker because you’re For Green, being an ABH in the hangar bay is the always doing something,” said Falsetti. “I was in V-3 best of both worlds. for a month and down there the majority of the work “We have enough free time to think and to study comes from when the flight deck is bringing aircraft versus a lot of other people on the ship,” said Green. down for maintenance, or if that “bird” is not operable “At the same time, we get very exciting jobs like when at the moment for whatever reason.”

Sale... Or

BOATS/CAMPERS/TRAILERS Excellent condition. Asking dirt bike $2,200. All in good $1900/month rent. See Zillow nities, including upstairs 4th 12 ft ceilings, heartland pine $10,500. Call 601-527-4981. shape ready to go. Overseas for pictures and specs. Call BD w/ full BA that could be floors, large brick patio, walk- 2017 Keystone Ava- 2010 Polaris Ranger move forcing sale. Make of- 904-254-5345. bonus room and three-acre in closets, walk-in pantry, lanche 365MB (5th wheel) 800XP Browning Edition, fer ready to deal! Call Ben at For Rent: 3 BD/2 BA peninsula lot boasts appx granite countertops, alarm motor home. Sleeps eight; camo color. roof, windshield, 843-597-4221. home in Collinsville. Located 1,000 ft. of shoreline & fea- system, quiet and safe neigh- great living quarters; includes winch, extra set of wheels/ AUTOMOBILES, ETC. in West Lauderdale School tures an expansive sprinkler borhood. Asking $310,000. cables, hoses and septic tires, and dual gun scabbard. District. Call Joseph at 504- system using lake water. Call Call number 601-917-0379. lines. Asking $49k. Call 586- Asking $7,800. Call Pete at 2010 Buick Lucerne, 421-8757 or email at Peters- Jenny Ziemba at 601-480- MISCELLANEOUS 899-6429. 601-678-3458. Asking $8,500; 121,000 [email protected]. 5969 or 601-282-5261. 2018 Mallard M185 Trav- 2013 Harley Davidson miles, loaded, excellent con- For Rent: 3 BD/2 BA home For Sale: 4 BD/3.5 BA, Riding Lawnmower used el Trailer. Sleeps 4 with 1 Switchback, Asking $8,000; dition; garage kept with new 15 minutes from NAS; pets Spacious lake front home less than one summer. Ask- queen bed/2 bunks. Easy to only one owner; still under tires. Call 601-739-3264. allowed with deposit. $1,200 with bonus room over the ing $850. 42” cut blade. Call tow at 3,575 lbs; only selling warranty; all maintenance 2017 Camaro Gen6, 4k per month; $1,000 deposit garage. Clarkdale school 601-482-2276. because military member is done by Harley Davidson. miles, 50th anniversary lim- with option for 3-year lease at district (ranked #1 within lo- Woman’s Converse moving overseas. Great liv- Call 505-658-1675. ited addition; like-new condi- $1,100 per month. Available cal area). Amenities include Composite Toe Trainer ing quarters with lake view. 1982 Harley Davidson tion. $38,500. Call 601-686- Aug. 1. Call 334-654-0571. wood floors, granite counter- Safety Shoe Size 10, brand Hooked up and ready to live FLHS, 80 C.I. Shovelhead 1027. For Sale: 3 BD/2 BA tops, custom crown molding, new in box, $65. White with in, including cables, hoses, Engine w/4-Speed Transmis- 2012 Honda Civic, 47k Ranch style home in North- plantation shutters, lots of gray & teal trim. Call Teresa septic lines, plus the $500 sion. Nice Antique Bike -- miles, $9,200. Call 601-490- east School district; less closet/storage space, archi- 601-616-9251 (Please no towing kit. Asking $17,000. just can’t ride anymore. Call 3835. than 10 minutes from NAS. tectural brick accents, gas calls after 8 p.m.) 601-527-9756/601-986-8378 Hardwood floors, new metal lanterns, and more. Asking Call 360-434-3035 HOMES/APARTMENTS 2004 Honda TRX450R roof in quiet neighborhood. $374,000. Call 601-723-0741 four wheeler $2,600; 2005 FSBO or Rent: 4BD/2.5 Asking $160k. Call 601-454- for a private showing. To submit an item to the MOTORCYCLES/GEAR/ATV Honda TRX250EX four BA One Level Brick Home 4990. For Sale: 4 BD/2 BA, 2490 “Sale...Or” column, e-mail wheeler $1,600; 2002 Ya- in Briarwood cul-de-sac For Sale: 4BD/3.5BA square ft. home in Southern [email protected]. 2010 Ultra Classic Harley Deadline is the dirt bike with vinyl fence, granite and Lakefront home in Scham- Oaks Subdivision, Northeast Davidson 29K miles 96cc maha TTR-125L Thursday prior to Screaming Eagle Engine. $800; and 2006 50SX-F stainless. Asking 249,900 or berville Estates. Lots of ame- Lauderdale School District, publication.

Listings in the “Sale...Or” column are free for anyone who works at NAS Meridian. You can purchase an ad for a business or organization in “The Skyline,” by calling The Meridian Star at 601-693-1551 -- ask for Advertising or email: [email protected] 8 The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018 Mattis: U.S. military becoming ‘stronger, more lethal, more agile’

By Terri Moon Cronk domains on par with air, land and DoD News, Defense Media Activity sea. And these two domains … were made contested domains by The Defense Department is the actions of others, so as a re- making significant progress along sult we have elevated [U.S.] Cyber its three strategic lines of effort Command to full combatant com- outlined in the National Defense mand status and we have worked Strategy issued in January, De- with Congress and the White fense Secretary James N. Mattis House to define the evolving space told reporters today. problem that we confront.” The secretary praised the DoD is also putting into place strong bipartisan support in Con- the National Defense Authoriza- gress that resulted in the $717 tion Act’s provision for a unified billion budget authorization for space command, in line with the 2019. “And our military contin- president’s vision for a Space ues to grow stronger, more lethal, Force, while revising its vision for more agile, and certainly more de- defending its assets in space and ployable than a year ago,” he said. revising antiquated acquisition The Fiscal Year ‘2019 Nation- processes. al Defense Authorization Act is “We are working now with named for the late Sen. John S. Congress on our way ahead with McCain, and it meets all of DoD’s regard to needed legislation for critical needs, Mattis said. a separate department,” Mattis Today, the United States is be- said. ing challenged across the global “We have released our Nucle- DoD photo by Lisa Ferdinando stage, Mattis said. ar Posture Review, outlining the U.S. Secretary of Defense James N. Mattis and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Corps “[We] are witnessing a world necessary steps we are taking Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, brief reporters at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., Aug. 28. that is awash in change, and to strengthen America’s nuclear maintaining readiness in the face deterrents so these weapons are the shared vision of democracy, have lasting security for our coun- dustry to work with us and with- of looming threats is a responsibil- never used, nuclear war being a prosperity and security,” he said. try without solvency,” Mattis em- out compromising performance or ity that we owe the next genera- war that cannot be won and must The last NATO summit yielded phasized. “We are conducting the accountability,” the secretary told tion,” the secretary said. never be fought,” he said. tangible results with 29 partner first audit in the department’s his- reporters. The Defense Department is DoD, also has added new stan- nations, which are now spending tory and I want that audit to find Mattis pointed out that DoD working hard to meet those chal- dards to improve deployability of more on defense in the organiza- problems. It’s the only way we embraced and finalized the con- lenges, he said. its forces so they are ready to fight tion, Mattis said “All recommit- will be able to craft effective solu- gressionally directed split between “We’re going to put our activi- and win at any time across any ted to spending 2 percent of [gross tions.” its acquisition and sustainment ties into a strategic framework domain, the secretary said. domestic product] on defense by That ensures that DoD up- and research and engineering of- that we have provided in the Na- The No. 2 line of effort goal is 2024,” he added. holds the trust Congress and the fices to ensure warfighters have tional Defense Strategy,” Mattis to “improve consultation, coopera- The secretary said DoD also American people have placed in the technology and equipment said of the three lines of effort: tion and burden-sharing with alli- gained full commitment to what’s the department to spend their tax they need both on the battlefields increasing lethality, strengthen- ances and partnerships so we can called the four 30s: 30 air squad- dollars wisely, he added. of today and tomorrow. ing alliances and building new best deter … threats and compe- rons, 30 naval ships and 30 com- DoD reform efforts have pro- The secretary said the bottom partnerships internationally, and tition, … because we are stronger bat battalions, all available to duced nearly $4 billion in sav- line is the “significant progress reforming how DoD does business alongside like-minded nations,” fight within 30 days. “That isa ings in fiscal year 2018, which among the three lines of effort, to achieve the best use of taxpay- Mattis noted. well-established and quantifiable can be applied to more lethality, and [that] our strategic frame- ers’ money. “Democracy is working, and we goal now,” he said. the secretary said. “We initiated work is proving applicable across “[We] have no room for compla- will be continuing to work with The department’s No. 3 line the repeal of several hundred un- our far-flung department’s op- cency in any domain, the secretary our friends from Ottawa to the of effort is reforming how it does necessary regulations across the erations, and we will continue to said. “We recognize cyberspace southern tip of South America, for business. department, enhancing our effi- drive results in the months and and outer space as warfighting cooperation is critical for realizing “We understand we cannot ciency and making it easier for in- years ahead.”

Hurricane Lane becomes tropical storm after drenching Hawaii Hurricane Lane was a 130 mph wind pattern will likely hold through the first speed, Category 4 storm when it hammered half of next week across the western end of Hawaii’s Big Island with three feet of rain the state. A drying trend will gradually fill Aug. 23, but today the once-mighty hurri- in from east to west through midweek. cane has been downgraded to a much-tam- The latest radar imagery showed the er tropical storm with 65 mph winds. heaviest rainfall continuing to focus over The National Weather Service said Maui County and the Big Island this Tropical Storm Lane is currently moving morning, with 1-3 inches of rain per hour north-northwest near 3 mph, about 135 expected during the heaviest activity, the miles south-southwest of Honolulu on the NWS said. Later today through Sunday, the island of Oahu. The storm is expected to rainfall and flash flooding threat will slowly make a westerly turn later today, according shift westward toward Oahu and Kauai. to the NWS. Next week, trailing tropical rain is fore- Maximum sustained winds associated cast to hold over the western end of the with Tropical Storm Lane remain at 65 state through the first half of the week as mph near the center, according to the NWS. Lane turns northward well west of Kauai, Lane is forecast to gradually make a turn according to the NWS. This will keep the toward the west this afternoon, passing threat for heavy rainfall and flooding in south of Kauai, one of the western inhab- place, mainly for Kauai and Oahu. A grad- ited Hawaiian Islands. ual drying trend is anticipated from east to NOAA photos Earlier this week, President Donald J. west through midweek. NHurricane Lane caused massive flooding on the Hawaiian Islands of Kauai and Oahu, Trump authorized that federal emergency Tropical Storm Lane is forecast to make Aug. 23. The storm was later downgraded to a tropical storm, but not before dumping aid be made available to the state of Hawaii a turn toward the west and pass south of more than 50 inches of rain on parts of Hawaii. to supplement state and local response ef- Kauai tonight, the NWS said. Heavy pre- forts due to the emergency conditions in the Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and local Hawaii authorities with search and cipitation associated with Lane will contin- areas affected by Hurricane Lane, accord- to protect property and public health and rescue, debris removal and incident aware- ue to fall over the coastal waters, through ing to a Department of Homeland Security/ safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a ness and damage assessments,” National the weekend. Federal Emergency Management Agency catastrophe. This declaration is for Hawaii, Guard Bureau officials said in a statement. Surf will remain elevated along exposed release. Kauai and Maui counties and the City and “If the National Guard supports storm re- shores through today as Lane begins to The President’s action authorizes FEMA County of Honolulu. covery efforts, the personnel will remain on move off to the west, according to the NWS. to coordinate all disaster relief efforts Hawaii earlier this week activated its duty as long as needed.” Heights along the south shores will likely which have the purpose of alleviating the emergency operations center, and Hawaii Although Lane will continue to weaken, lower into average range no later than Sun- hardship and suffering caused by the emer- National Guard planners are working there the threat for flash flooding remains in the day. East shores will remain elevated be- gency on the local population, and to pro- to coordinate personnel and resources ef- forecast through the weekend, according to yond today due to expected strong onshore vide appropriate assistance for required forts. the NWS. A flash flood watch continues to- winds filling in as Lane exits. emergency measures, authorized under “The National Guard is ready to support day for all the Hawaiian Islands. The wet --From DoD News, Defense Media Activity

=Winging Those earning their wings include: a Lt. j.g. Ethan Joel Albrecht, USN, was selected as VT-9’s Student of the Month for January 2018, and he earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Aug. 8. Albrecht completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. a Lt.j.g. Mark Andrew Blankenship Jr., USN, selected E-2/C-2 and underwent Multi-Engine Training in Corpus Christi, Texas, before beginning training in Meridian. Blankenship will be continuing training in Norfolk, Va., and will fly either the E-2 Hawkeye or the C-2 Greyhound. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Aug. 8. Blankenship completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. a Lt. j.g. Jason Nicholas Bruno, USN, was selected as VT-9’s Student of the Month for November 2017, and he earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) June 26. Bruno completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. a 1st Lt. Henry Richard Duden IV, USMC, was named to the Commodore’s List during Primary Flight Training and earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Train- ing. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Aug. 9. Duden completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Seven. a 1st Lt. Brandon Michael Howard, USMC, earned three Navy “E’s” for bombing accuracy during Advanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Aug. 9. Howard completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Seven. a Lt. j.g. Jakub Jan Rusek, USN, was named to the Commodore’s List during Primary Flight Training and carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) June 26. Rusek completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. a Lt. Thomas William Sharp, Royal Navy, joined the Royal Navy in 2010 and after completing Basic Fast Jet Training in the UK, he moved to Meridian in 2016. He carrier qualified in the T- 45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) June 26. Sharp completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. a Lt. Thomas Michael Warner, Royal Navy, joined the Royal Navy in 2010 and after completing Basic Fast Jet Training in the UK, he moved to Meridian in 2016. Warner was selected as VT-9’s Student of the Month for March 2018, and he earned one Navy “E” for bombing accuracy during Ad- vanced Jet Flight Training. He carrier qualified in the T-45C onboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) June 26. Warner completed Advanced Jet Flight Training with Training Squadron Nine. The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018 9

This week we asked: “How do you plan to celebrate Labor Day weekend?” IT’S YOUR TURN... By MC1 Chris Liaghat

PSSR William Bingham Jennifer Grace Larry Griffin AZAR Sara Reyes LSSR Jarod Miller NOSC Meridian Rudders Fitness Center NATTC Student NTTC Student “I’m going to a family “Taking my family at “Spending time with my “ I plan to take a dive in “Going on the lake with reunion in Tennessee. I Geyser Falls Water Theme family having a cookout.” the pool at the gym on base my family to grill out and haven’t seen my immediate Park. I’m going to lay in and enjoy some good BBQ watch fireworks.” family in two years.” the lazy river all day.” in the galley.” Fleet & Family Support Center Supporting your child FFSC Briefs Studies show that when parents are involved in made about the teacher, as well as your own positive To register for any of the following workshops, school, their children get better grades and have bet- impressions about the teacher and the school year. please call the FFSC at 601-679-2360. The class ter self-esteem, better attendance and fewer behavior may not be presented if no one registers, so make problems. Teachers also tend to pay more attention to It’s also a good idea to write out a list of questions, sure you call if you’re interested! Can’t make the children whose parents are actively involved with the such as the following: scheduled time? Call anyway - the workshop facili- school and with their children’s education. a How does my child get along with classmates? tator may be able to work with you one-on-one, give Even if you relocate often or are temporarily de- a What procedure do you use to tell parents if a child you materials, or let you know when the class will ployed, there are ways you can build a relationship with has difficulty? be offered again. All classes held at FFSC (Build- the school and your child’s a How can we work to- ing 405) unless otherwise noted teachers and help your gether to improve my child’s child perform as well as he/ schoolwork? she can. a What is the best way to Transition GPS Capstone The most important reach you if I want to dis- Sept. 4 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. step you can take to sup- cuss a specific problem? Ninety days before their separation from port your child’s education If there are prob- military service, service members will is to communicate regu- lem areas to discuss, avoid larly with his/her teacher, blaming the teacher. Try participate in a CAPSTONE event, which will before a problem develops. to make constructive com- verify that transitioning service This isn’t always easy, es- ments. Instead of saying, members completed the Transition GPS cur- pecially as an active duty “You never listen to my riculum and achieved Career service member with a child,” ask, “What is your child in middle or senior classroom policy on giving Readiness Standards. Service members high school who has many students opportunities to who require additional assistance will be teachers. But it’s impor- speak and ask questions?” referred to supplemental training tant to communicate that Respond to problems opportunities. In addition, through the CAP- you are concerned and you promptly. If a problem does STONE event, all service members will be want to work with them to develop, it’s easiest to re- help your child reach their solve if you address it im- offered a ‘warm handover’ to full potential. mediately. Ask your child appropriate government agencies and or- how he/she views the prob- ganizations that will be able to provide them Here are a few tips to help lem. Listen carefully and continued benefits, services, and support as your child succeed: ask questions to get beyond a Send notes. Teachers feelings and get to specifics. veterans. See your command career coun- can be hard to reach. But you can use e-mail, or have Then contact the teacher, if necessary, to discuss a coor- selor for more information. your younger child take notes to the teacher. Provide a dinated solution. place for the teacher to sign, and have your child bring If your child is disrupting class, struggling to stay IA Spouse Discussion Group home the signed note. A note might: let the teacher in her seat, skipping assignments, or having difficulty Sept. 4 from 11 a.m.-noon know if a new baby, a sick relative, or an impending with a subject, it’s better to keep a close eye on the prob- move or deployment is distracting your child. lem rather than wait for a regular conference. You and FFSC hosts this IA Spouse Discussion a Thank the teacher for special efforts or when your the teacher may decide to use a daily report card, where Group over coffee (or tea). Join other mili- child enjoys a particular study unit or a trip to the local the teacher can check off options on a predetermined tary spouses to talk about the museum, etc. Teachers will be more open to concerns list to track your child’s performance or behavior. This challenges of IA deployment, share when they also hear praise. can help you follow up at home. a Ask the teacher to call you to discuss an issue. Be Meet the guidance counselor. At the beginning of survival tips, discuss the impact of sure to give your phone number and a time when the high school, schedule a meeting with your teenager and deployment on children, remind one teacher can reach you at that number. a school guidance counselor to discuss college or work another about the benefits of deployment, or a Request information or a conference. Do not use plans. Plan ahead and work together to choose courses just kick back & chat! notes to raise objections, to complain about problems, that match your child’s future plans as well as her in- or to discuss confidential information. Instead, use the terests and goals. note to request a meeting where you can discuss the Stay involved. Middle schools, junior high schools, Welcome Aboard issue. and high schools don’t always reach out to parents but Sept. 4 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. a Attend parent-teacher conferences. Schools offer con- will respond to your efforts to support the school. You FFSC welcomes you to Meridian by ferences once or twice a year in elementary and mid- might offer to chaperone school band members at the providing current information and dle school. At these face-to-face meetings, your child’s football game on Saturday or supervise student volun- teacher will give you a detailed report on your child’s teers at an evening event. policies regarding NAS. Topics covered will behavior and achievement. Be prepared to share infor- If you are deployed and have access to e-mail, use it include: Navy career choices, FFSC ser- mation about your child, such as hobbies, interests, and to stay connected with your child’s teachers and school vices, Suicide Prevention, Medical, Dental, study habits. Let the teacher know if your child has re- administrators on a regular basis. Staying involved Exceptional Family Member (EFM) Program, cently relocated or if a parent will be deploying at some shows your child and the school that you are committed TRICARE, vehicle point during the school year. to supporting your child’s education. a Be sure to share any nice comments your child has --From FFSC registration, on- & off-base driving regulations, legal services, community services, Chapel & other religious services, MWR, things to do at NAS & in Meridian, and more. The toughest job in the military Transition GPS Seminar 17-21 Sept. 17-21 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Military personnel who are voluntarily or should not be done alone! involuntarily separating or retiring and are within 180 days of separating are required to attend this seminar, held at the FFSC. It There will be a non-denominational support circle and bible is highly recommended that spouses at- study for all wives of any military branch. Prayer Circle, tend. You may also attend if you’re up to 24 months away from your separation or meditation, non-judgemental fellowship and retirement date. The following topics will Christ-centered studies. be covered: résumés, job search skills, job interviewing, employment (state & federal), veterans’ benefits, pay & travel, movement Tuesdays from 5:30-6:45 p.m. and Fridays from of household goods, TRICARE, emotional 1:30-2:45 p.m. at the Balfour Beatty Community Center. Free transition to separation, financial planning, forms & documents, benefits & services, childcare provided by certified sitter. Call 361-455-2108. military obligations, and more. You must see your Command Career Counselor or Admin Information about this event is being communicated as a matter of common interest Officer before attending Transition GPS to pursuant to JER 3-208. Participation in this event is purely voluntary. Endorsement of this activity and entities obtain several documents that are required referenced in this e-mail are neither expressed nor implied by NAS Meridian or the DoN. for the seminar. 10 The Skyline ~ August 30, 2018 NAS Sailors of the Quarter

ABE1 Sherwin Magat AC2 Logan Houston MA3 Chase Herring

Senior Sailor of the 3rd Quarter Junior Sailor of the 3rd Quarter Blue Jacket of the 3rd Quarter Field Support Air Operations Security

NEW ERA Baptist Church

Sunday: Sunday School 9:30-10:30am Worship Service 11am -12:30pm Wednesday: Courtesy photo Bible Study 6:30-8:00pm The U.S. Naval Test Pilot School conducts a preflight check ahead of its first flight testing the airframe, avionics and mission system to verify the aircraft and its Youth Group 6:30-8:pm subsystems are safe for flight operations at the United States Naval Test Pilot School in Patuxent River, Md. on August 21. 1525 24th Street, Meridian Naval Test Pilot School’s newest

Newerambc.org 130552-1 flying classroom takes flight The U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (USNTPS) conducted its first flight of Airborne Systems Training and Research Support (ASTARS) III, Tuesday, August 21. The first flight objective validated the aircraft’s Naval subsystems ahead of its addition to the USNTPS’ class 155 syllabus which began last month. Class 155 will be the first class leveraging ASTARS III for all systems flight test events. ASTARS III, the third generation of flying classroom supporting the USNTPS curriculum, is a custom tailored C-26A Metroliner equipped with military equipment and subsystems. A custom tailored simulation lab was also built in conjunction with the aircraft to have matching crew stations. ASTARS allows students to familiarize themselves with the aircraft and its systems in a simulation lab before flying airborne for the first time increasing the efficiency of flight time spent with instructors in the air. USNTPS’ original ASTARS is a divested P-3; ASTARS II is a modified Saab 340. “ASTARS III is a game changing capability that further advances the modernized syllabus offered at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School,” said Cdr. Glenn Rioux, commanding officer of the USNTPS. “The USNTPS is excited for this milestone as it adds greater capability to our historically competitive curriculum.” Each year the USNTPS graduates more test flight professionals than all national and international flight test academies combined. In Fall 2015, the U.S. Government gave the C-26A to the USNTPS after it retired from conducting counter narcotics missions along the Mexican border. The aircraft arrived with minimal documentation and maintenance records requiring extensive work in order to meet Federal Aviation Administration standards. It also required unique modifications to meet the school’s flying classroom requirements for future curriculum. The aircraft’s upgrade was a combined effort between a number of organizations: USNTPS, Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division’s (NAWCAD) AIRWorks, Naval Air Systems Command’s Tactical Airlift, Adversary and Support Aircraft program office, and M7 Aerospace, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems of America. During the trans- formation, each group was represented at the hangar on a daily basis by pilots, engi- neers, artisans, supply chain specialists, program managers, test representatives, and other crew members who worked side-by-side at the modification site in San Antonio, Texas. The project structure reduced programmatic cycle times while maintaining the aircraft’s configuration control. “The amount of proactive collaboration on this project is unprecedented,” said Jer- ry Swift, director of AIRWorks, the systems integration office that cultivates the command’s organic capability to develop rapid warfighter solutions. The approach is a prime example of the Navy’s organic capability coordinated by AIRWorks which brings together warfare center talent, industrial partnerships and emerging technologies. In partnership with NAWCAD’s Aircraft Modification Proto- typing and Production group, AIRWorks has provided the Navy affordable alterna- tives including rapid prototype and production of the H-60 gunner seat, integration of V-22 ballistic missile protection and C-27 maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance modifications. With facilities in Patuxent River, Maryland; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlan- do, Florida, NAWCAD supports the research and development, engineering, test and evaluation of all Navy and Marine Corps air vehicle systems and trainers. --From Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Public Affairs

119516-1