December 17, 2020 Volume 30, Issue 24 U.S. Naval Activities Spain

Year in Review: 2020 2 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Holiday Message COASTLINE STAFF Happy Holidays Team Rota! I think I speak for Commanding Officer everyone in saying that 2020 has been… a year. We Capt. David S. Baird hoped that 2020 would be a year of perfect vision, but instead it was an unclear year filled with uncertainty, Executive Officer Cmdr. Justin Canfield disruption of routines, and changed plans. But I also think that for our community onboard Naval Station Rota, this Command Master Chief year has been one of togetherness, of resiliency, and of CMDCM Kimberly Ferguson support. Even during times of isolation and quarantine, this community found ways to remain together. We all Public Affairs Officer had to endure this year somewhere, and I am glad we Lt. Lyndsi Gutierrez were given the opportunity to do so here in beautiful [email protected] 956-82-1680 Rota, Spain! CMDCM Kimberly Ferguson Capt. David S. Baird It has been a year of disappointment for nearly all, Deputy Public Affairs Officer (Acting) and tragedy for far too many. Many of us were forced to MCC Lauren Howes cancel travel plans over the last year. Many of us had [email protected] help us slowly relax some restrictions and move into a new friends and family cancel planned visits. We were all forced to 956-82-2813 normal. While under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), adapt to dramatic changes in social behavior. Our schools and vaccinations will not be mandatory. I encourage everyone workplaces changed drastically. We had to cancel celebrations Editor/Writer/Layout to research the safety and efficacy of the vaccines through Courtney Pollock like Feria and Prom. We learned terms like incidence rate, credible publications, and to make a thoughtful and deliberate [email protected] social distancing, flattening the curve, remote learning, PCR, decision that is right for you. 956-82-1021 ROM, PPE, and many more. We binge watched a lot of TV, 2021 is destined to be a year of renewal. Renewed traditions, and we spent a lot of time on video conference calls for work Production Specialists renewed routines, renewed travel, renewed celebrations, and with our friends and family. We worried about our parents MC2 Eduardo Otero Santos renewed sports, and renewed hope. I look forward to youth and grandparents. We worried about our kids. Worst of all, [email protected] and high school sports, to barbeques and big parties, to galas far too many lost a loved one and had to figure out how to 956-82-1021 and balls, to handshakes and hugs. I look forward to traveling grieve during a pandemic. These disappointments and these and to hosting guests from afar. I look forward to big smiles, MC3 (SW/AW) Jakob Owen tragedies are like wounds that will all take time to heal. Some and close conversations. These things will not be possible for a [email protected] may never fully heal. while. We all need to endure a little longer. But I am so thankful 956-82-1021 But despite all of these disappointments and tragedies, to be enduring here in Rota, and I will be forever grateful for despite three months of home confinement, and despite this Community Relations Advisor the opportunity to do so with each of you. pandemic, our community has remained together. For months 956-82-1680 / 2813 / 1021 I wish each of you Happy Holidays, and a healthy and we offered nightly applause for the frontline healthcare workers, blessed 2021. Please stay vigilant in protecting yourself and Contact The Coastline Editorial Staff: and for all those who stayed at work providing for our needs. one another by staying home if you are sick, wearing your Telephone: 956-82-1021 We checked on one another. We supported one another when mask, maintaining physical separation, minimizing close Email: [email protected] we were able, and we leaned on one another when we needed contacts, washing your hands, and keeping the faith – for the Large-file email: [email protected] to. We respected each other, and we protected each other. duration! - Capt. David Baird PSC 819 Box 1 We adapted. We figured out “remote learning.” It wasn’t FPO AE 09645-0001 always easy, but we got through it. We imagined new ways to safely have celebrations like graduation, 4th of July, Halloween, This edition includes photography from the following: To place an advertisement in the Coastline, and Thanksgiving. We found safe ways to get our students back please contact our publisher: Ramon Morant [email protected] into the classroom, and to hold religious services. We dined Lt. Lyndsi Gutierrez or 653-78-0296. outside. We ordered takeout or delivery. We wore masks, and USAF Airman 1st Class Robyn Hunsinger The editorial content of this publication is the we got really good at smiling with our eyes. MC1 Benjamin Lewis responsibility of the NAVSTA Rota Public Affairs Some of us improved our fitness level this year. Some of us Office. Contents of the Coastline are not necessarily the look forward to doing so next year. Some of us learned a new MC1 Caine Storino official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, skill or found a new hobby. Some of us realized we could do IC2 Jeffrey Abelon the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Navy. Publishing without some of our old habits or routines. Some of us spent is through a private firm in no way connected with MC2 Christina Brewer the U.S. Navy, or other DoD/military entities, under quality time with family. Some of us yearn for the time when MC2 Eduardo Otero Santos exclusive written contract with NAVSTA Rota. we will be able to see family again. MC2 Sean Rinner The appearance of advertising in this publication, Yet throughout this tumultuous year, Naval Station Rota including inserts or supplements, does not constitute continued to meet our mission of Partnership, Readiness, CE3 Arcel Begelia endorsement by the U.S. Navy, other DoD/military and Presence as Team Rota. We enriched our Partnerships MC3 Jakob Owen entities, or the publisher of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication with our host nation and with each other. We maintained our MCSN Christine Montgomery military, personal, and family Readiness. And we did all of this shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage Amy Hutyra without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national here in beautiful southern Spain. Courtney Pollock origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political Our togetherness, our adaptability, and our resiliency has affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the given me continued hope. Now, with the arrival of safe and *In addition, there are several courtesy photos from various purchases, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection effective vaccines, my hope is buoyed even further. Inthe department, tenant commands and organizations around of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is coming weeks and months we will be offering COVID-19 confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising Rota without photo credit. vaccines to our community. Over time, these vaccinations will from that source until the violation is corrected. Coastline | December 17, 2020 3 U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Rota, Spain Originally designated the Year of the or no questions that direct care,” said Lt. we have a long-standing, strong working with the Seabees, waterfront forces, Nurse and Midwife by the World Health Megan McKim, USNH Rota public affairs relationship with, constantly monitoring logistical support, and base assets Organization, the year 2020 turned out to officer. the pandemic situation and remain in daily to ensure their missions' continued need nurses and all medical professionals Using the HICS in conjunction with contact with their teams.” success. Additionally, USNH Rota was more than anyone could originally Navy Medicine Forces Atlantic guidance, During the de-escalation process recognized for the 2020 AMSUS Force imagine. U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) USNH Rota was able to minimize in- from the State of Alarm restrictions in Health Protection Team Award with the Rota took an early interest in COVID-19 person healthcare services and the the summer months, USNH Rota began accomplishment of providing proactive and began tracking the disease early in hospital's staffing footprint in order to meet to reintroduce in-person care and the and preventative health services directly January 2020. As world events unfolded, local manning guidelines. hospital staff worked with critical base to the warfighter, including mental health USNH Rota learned, consulted, and To maintain patient care but minimize assets, including the base gym, DGF, crisis and prevention services, women’s continuously adapted to the seemingly in-person interactions during the height of SAC, and the CDC ensuring safe returns health, dental preventative, and physical never-ending virus developments. the first wave of COVID-19, the Medical to the "new normal.” It was during this therapy services onboard ship. Being ahead of the continental U.S. Homeport, OB/GYN, Telemedicine, and time that the clinic also transitioned out “In the end it was the commitment while facing the pandemic, the Spanish Mental Health services turned virtual of the temporary COVID tents and into of local leadership and each and every government locked down early and - providing world class care through a more permanent location adjacent to person to follow the recommended with significant restrictions, pushing high quality remote appointments via Medical Homeport but keeping separate mitigation measures to preserve the force USNH Rota to the forefront, trailblazing cellphones, video chats, and secure external entrances to ensure a minimal and protect themselves and others,” said care pathway development and contact messaging. virus spread. Archila. “I am thankful to be amongst tracing procedures. One of the first This paradigm shift created a new As autumn approached, Spain saw the others in our Rota community who things USNH Rota did in response to focus on sustaining U.S. Naval Superiority beginning of its second wave of COVID-19. considers others above themselves.” the evolving COVID-19 pandemic was by ensuring Force Health Protection. USNH Rota implemented lessons stand up its Hospital Incident Command Despite these drastic changes, USNH learned from the virus's first wave System (HICS) and enlisted the help of Rota continued to meet all standards for that have enabled USNH Rota the Seabees to construct a temporary force health readiness in 2020 thanks to keep all services operational external COVID-19 clinic to ensure the to all the hard work by the military during the second wave. The health safety of hospital staff and medical members, civilian staff, and understanding new COVID-19 clinic's creation clinic patients. beneficiaries. and additional safety measures, USNH Rota created COVID-19 “The hospital regularly trains for including spaced appointments, a algorithms using both the Centers for events such as pandemic viruses and the socially distanced floor plan, and Disease Control and European Centers healthcare workers at USNH Rota worked facility barrier modification, all for Disease Control guidance. hard to maintain the highest medical care played a role in their ability to keep “Algorithms are used to delineate, and for all beneficiaries,” said Capt. Andrew services fully operational. organize care for patient, like what to do Archila, USNH Rota commanding officer. Although this year has been if you are sick, will you see a provider, “We also worked closely with our host challenging for all, USNH Rota will you go to the emergency room, etc. nation public health representatives and saw community teamwork at its Essentially they are pathways with yes the Spanish Ministry of Health, whom best. They worked side-by-side 4 December 17, 2020 | Coastline NAVSTA Rota Public Affairs Office & Spanish Liaison Office: Coordinating COVID-19 Communications When Spain announced the State of tackle this challenge with. Our team really Commanding Officer to address the Liaison Office, provided external Spanish Alarm, March 13, 2020, many departments came together, providing endless support community directly. media with information for publication and tenant commands aboard Naval to the community through what seemed The team remained on standby almost and/or the opportunity to film stories Station (NAVSTA) Rota went to minimal like endless days and nights, and doing around the clock, to answer the inevitable centered around base personnel and manning and reduced work schedules. whatever was necessary for us to get the flood of questions that came in from both base operations. For some departments though, the job done and effectively communicate official and unofficial community social In order to keep some sense of workload amplified as it did for both the every change, every step of the way with media sites following every major update normalcy for the community, the public Public Affairs Office and Spanish Liaison the public.” to the regulations. Understandably, a fair affairs staff continued to publish the Office, both of which are relatively small First, the Spanish government would number of questions asked went into Coastline newspaper throughout the offices to begin with. publish their policies in their state gazette more detail than was provided by the pandemic but transitioned the publication The Spanish Liaison Office is comprised called the Boletín Oficial del Estado official government documents, so further to a digital-only format during the period of Maria Diaz Muñoz (Spanish Liaison (BOE), and then each of the regional coordination was needed between the of full lockdown. They solicited input from Officer) and Brenda Navarro Castellet governments across Spain would publish Spanish Liaison Office and the Spanish the community to help fill the pages and (Host Nation Protocol Advisor), and the their guidance. For Andalucía, that government for clarification in order to many of the resulting stories featured installation Public Affairs Office consists of document was called the Boletín Oficial de adequately answer each question. community members and how they Lt. Lyndsi Gutierrez (Public Affairs Officer la Junta de Andalucía (BOJA). Although In addition to all the COVID related supported each other throughout the [PAO]), Mass Communications (MC) 1st not a usual part of their job duties, Diaz correspondence, both departments carried lockdown – together but apart. Class Benjamin Lewis (outgoing Deputy and Navarro took the initiative to translate on with their usual duties. For PAO), MC2 Eduardo Otero Santos, MC3 each new BOE and BOJA from Spanish the Spanish Liaison Office, Jakob Owen, and Courtney Pollock. to English from which they were able to this included maintaining Together, the six of them were thrust quickly provide an executive summary, or all official correspondence By the Numbers into crisis communications mode and key updates, to NAVSTA Rota leadership. between Spanish and U.S. PAO / Spanish Liaison at the forefront of the pandemic as the They would further engage with the Navy, as well as notifying primary source of information for the base city officials from the surrounding area our Spanish counterparts Pages Translated: 1,710 personnel about the virus and all the new regarding any local policies regarding and coordinating the use - BOEs: 40 (700 pages) decrees, regulations, and mitigations current situation, updates, and local of their installation for U.S. - BOJAs: 12 (560 pages) being put into place from both the Spanish restrictions. exercises, training and other - Other official documents (450 pages) government and the U.S. military. After review and translation of national, operations. COVID-related Social Media Updates: 271 “Crisis communications is one of regional and local policies were complete, For the Public Affairs Office - Likes/Reactions: 17,005 those things that even with the best the public affairs team would then take this consisted of documenting - Community Comments/Questions: 9,688 training you never feel fully prepared for the information provided by the Spanish base operations with internal in the moment due to the dynamic, ever Liaison Office and base services in order photos, video, and stories COVID-related Graphics: 98 changing nature of the situation,” said to generate daily social media updates for our internal audience but Town Halls: 15 (14 Virtual/COVID-related) Gutierrez, “That was especially true for and accompanying graphics to inform also externally through the Virtual Ceremonies: 3 us with this coronavirus pandemic, but I the community of the latest changes, Coastline newspaper and in External Media Queries: 29 couldn’t have asked for a better team to or arranging virtual town halls for the coordination with the Spanish

By the Numbers Admin. Dept. NAVSTA Rota Administration Department The Administration Department and in meeting the needs of the installation’s all while maintaining appropriate social Correspondence: 1,700 Command Career Counselor’s (CCC) personnel during the dynamic COVID-19 distancing and ensuring that safety ROM letters: 1,064 office have been quintessential to Naval environment, the administration precautions were in place to combat the Curfew letters: 2,123 Station (NAVSTA) Rota’s mission success department tackled every new challenge coronavirus. Essential movement letters: 854 throughout 2020. The coronavirus head first. Despite the stop-movement Even with the pandemic blues clouding Passport applications: 310 brought many administrative challenges order in place Sailors and civilians still NAVSTA Rota, customer service remained PCS waivers: 69 in addition to the normal workload of the needed to travel for official reasons to the Administration Department’s number Evals/Fitreps: 94 Admin and CCC departments. meet the mission. The administration one priority, maintaining positive attitudes As with most departments, shifting department was vital in ensuring that the and positive customer service to help TAD/Leave waivers: 89 to minimal manning in response to the appropriate exceptions to policy were brighten everyone’s day. The masks might Transfers/Separations: 84 coronavirus mitigations put in place routed in a timely manner, allowing official hide their smiles, but they are definitely Gains: 22 across the country, team Admin stayed travel to be executed in compliance with there! in the fight working diligently with a Navy and Region guidance. “Whether it’s pandemic-related Command Career Counselor rotating small team in the office while Helping to advance the careers of their paperwork or any other standard (CCC) Office others worked from home in order fellow Sailors, the CCC office continued to correspondence, awards or evaluations, PRESEP Briefs: 7 to process what was required by the provide support throughout the pandemic. your NAVSTA Rota administration department to meet mission and support Navy counselors continued to conduct department is up for the job any and Reenlistments: 66 the installation’s most valuable assets: pre-separation (PRESEP) counseling every day,” said Lt. Simon Barger, former OTEIP approvals: 68 the Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and Airmen during the transition assistance program administration officer. “Admin work never onboard NAVSTA Rota. course, and recruited over 40% of stops and neither do we!” Demonstrating exceptional flexibility separating members to reserve affiliation, Coastline | December 17, 2020 5 6 December 17, 2020 | Coastline NAVSTA Rota Air Operations The global COVID-19 pandemic of may not have had a place to go during 2020 forced a lot of changes in how the layover and notified the appropriate operations are conducted worldwide personnel in order to open up the base and Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota Air gym. Operations department has been no "As the air terminal manager, my exception. team has been challenged with ensuring The Rota airfield has continued to we have the most current movement operate 24/7 throughout the year and Air guidance and providing that information Operations personnel have been working to the command and the customer; while hard from the start of the pandemic to still ensuring our team is able to meet the safely keep operations moving. This has mission," said Speigner. required implementing additional health The high number of passenger safety measures and closer coordination movements coupled with the limited with transient units. amount of lodging options available Even so, Air Operations supported ultimately led to a change in the prior over 3,500 aircraft, 3,000 tons of cargo, permission required (PPR) process 24,000 passengers, and seven aviation at NAVSTA Rota for inbound aircraft. detachments. Speigner played a key role in implementing One of the key players in accomplishing a new PPR process that required all this was the Rota air terminal manager, inbound aircraft to provide proof of lodging was the arrival of HSM-79 [helicopter outbound passengers and aircrew. These Rob Speigner. In the early stages of the arrangements prior to receiving approval squadron]. We're all excited to have U.S. screenings have allowed the missions pandemic and Spain's State of Alarm, to land at Rota. He personally reached aircraft stationed here, and the job of Air to continue safely while helping to limit hotels outside the installation had to shut out to coordinate with the inbound troop Operations is to support them in their the spread of COVID-19 within the down. With limited availability on base, commanders on an almost daily basis to mission as best we can." community. many of the passengers transiting through inform them of the new requirement and Another big change to Air Operations Air Operations is one of the pillars Rota were left without a place to go during assist where needed. has been the added requirement of a of the mission aboard NAVSTA Rota their layovers. Speigner coordinated with "Rota Air Operations has done a great medical screening for all passengers and – a hub of international connections base leadership to open up the base job adapting to the constantly evolving aircrew. The Air Operations Department sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to gymnasium as a place for the passengers challenges brought on by the pandemic stood up a watch team to provide 24/7 the Mediterranean.” It’s the team of hard to rest and practice social distancing and supporting mission requirements,” air terminal medical screening coverage. working Sailors, Airmen, and civilians while awaiting their departure flight. He said Lt. Kevin Bryant, assistant air After receiving training from medical who play a critical role in accomplishing screened the flight schedule daily for operations officer. “One of the biggest personnel, the team watch standers that mission. any inbound flights with passengers that changes to the Rota airfield this year have been screening all inbound and

NAVSTA Rota Port Operations USS Carney (DDG 64) Bids Farewell to Rota Despite the pandemic bringing the equipment transfers, using Air Mobility world to a virtual standstill, Naval Station Command (AMC) and MSC assets. Port (NAVSTA) Rota's port remained faithful Ops enables the seamless and timely to its reputation as 6th Fleet's busiest relief of deployed forces in CENTCOM, maritime hub. The rapidly spreading virus AFRICOM, and EUCOM theaters of presented its sets of challenges but in no operations while saving millions of dollars way deterred our team of professionals to the U.S. treasury. from providing world-class services to The Port Operations Department our homeported and transient ships. maintains and operates 13 small crafts, Port Operations (Port Ops) Sailors and dozens of pieces of harbor support, and civilian professionals executed over 190 facilities response team (FRT) equipment ship movements, sacrificing weekends to fulfill its mission. In November of 2020, and holidays. the FRT showcased its oil-spill response "We are an extremely busy port expertise by participating in a tri-annual where work never stops, but all of us drill with host nation counterparts. During pull together to get the job done," said this evolution, U.S. Navy and Spanish Engineman 1st Class Tyler Carey, leading Armada partners simulated the swift petty officer for the maintenance division. containment and clean up of 5,000 gallons “We work like a well-oiled machine when of petroleum products in the harbor. Naval Station Rota Security Department we combine our efforts.” “None of this would be possible without While the world was turned upside “My NSF (Naval Security Force) team Known as the “Gateway to the a fantastic group of dedicated naval down in 2020 by COVID-19 Naval Station members are the first to respond to any Mediterranean,” NAVSTA Rota's harbor professionals and Sailors who are the (NAVSTA) Rota Security Department situation,” said King. “Along with their welcomes ships transiting in and out of operation's backbone,” said Cmdr. Mark came together through learning and normal protective gear they are outfitted the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility Krozel, port operations officer. maintain new norms. Security maintained to respond wearing proper COVID (AOR). Here they can refuel, resupply, The team confronted and overcame its mission every day both on base protective equipment to prevent the make repairs, and afford their crews much challenges brought upon by COVID-19 and by supporting United States Africa potential spreading of illnesses on base.” needed rest & relaxation (R&R). As one to continue providing world-class services Command Missions through Individual During 2020 Security responded to of the few full-service military ports in that keep our forces combat-ready. Augmenteen (IA) Support. 14,000 calls of service and trained 153 the Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central "Teamwork and comradery are ‘WHAT’ “I could not be prouder of the Rota Sailors and Airmen in security tactics, (CNREURAFCENT), Rota supports the makes Port Ops, Port Ops," said Machinist Security Department team," said Lt. techniques, procedures and weapons largest volume of maritime traffic year- Mate 2nd Class Benjamin Glenn, lead Cmdr.Jeff King, NAVSTA Rota security familiarization. round. The Port Operations Department is coxswain and small boat instructor. "It officer. "Each and every one of these Due to COVID, large events were the pivotal point enabling four homeported is how we work efficiently and diligently Sailors have overcome every challenge canceled and shifts in major inspections guided-missile destroyers, visiting Navy without any mishaps." thrown at them this year and continue to and visits were made, but Security still surface, submarine, and Military Sealift NAVSTA Rota Port Operations bids execute the mission with unmatched pride remained vigilant and continued to serve Command (MSC) vessels to carry out farewell to 2020, a year that allowed its and professionalism." the Rota community. their missions in defense of U.S. national Sailors and civilian teammates to prove Maintaining mission readiness and “While we couldn’t showcase our interests and our allies. their mettle and carry out their mission training while keeping each other safe talents at our annual National Night Out In addition to routine port visits, Port rain or shine. 2021, Port Ops is ready from close contact meant learning new event this year, rest assured NSF was Operations' services are increasingly for you! ways to respond to emergencies without here every day protecting all of us,” said solicited for intermodal troop and creating unnecessary close contact. King. Coastline | December 17, 2020 7 8 December 17, 2020 | Coastline PUBLISHER´S CORNER

ABURI

I like good sushi and while I am willing to travel to get it, I would rather have it close at hand. Finding Aburi Sushi in Rota was very convenient as their sushi is top notch. While sushi is their specialty, they also have other traditional Japanese dishes on their menu such as teriyaki chicken accompanied by rice, yakisoba with vegetables and beef, curry noodles and much more. Aburi has great rolls, one of my favorites is the EBI TEMPURA, shrimp fried in tempura and panko covered with cheese, avocado, eel sauce and sesame, it is one of the most requested rolls of their customers. For salmon lovers they have a roll called SKIN DRAGÓN, a grilled salmon skin covered with flambéed salmon, eel sauce and ikura salmon roe. They have different sushi platters that are excellent and pleasing as to the combinations of flavor and type. A selection of good sakes is on offer. If you have room it is well worth trying their Japanese deserts like dorayaki, mochis and their homemade vanilla tempura ice cream dessert. I have noticed that good Sushi restaurants have a talented and dedicated chef as the owner and David is the professional person who holds that position here. The restau- rant has a comfortable atmosphere and excellent service. Currently the restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday (18:00 to 23:00) but due to Covid-19 governmental changes it is better to be attentive to their social networks (Facebook and Instagram) for possible future schedule changes. Please see their ads in the paper for more details. Take away and Home Delivery are available. KOKES GRILL

Koke gave us a scare, he wants his clients to know that he had a heart attack, but is recovering well and we will all be able to enjoy his delicious grill meats when he opens up again in the Spring!

Rota C/ Velazquez 2 956 841 935

RELAXING BED 26,95€ AQUARIUM 60 LED 58L 79,95€ SOFT AND RELAXING INCLUDES WATER PUMP,THERMO HEATER, BED FOR PETS 50 CM € PRE-INSTALLATION OF AIR PUMP AND € 18,95 BIOLOGICAL FILTER 59,95

*Offer valid until 16/01/2021 or while stocks last. mascotasavila.com Coastline | December 17, 2020 9 Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota Fire and Emergency Services While most commands were going to new issue presented itself, they worked newfound skills and teach minimal manning and telework capabilities through it and found a solution to continue their fellow teammates after Spain entered its State of Alarm mid- providing the base with their vital service. additional firefighting March, Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota This included creating an isolated working techniques. Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) group on restriction of movement (ROM) Rayfield described the was trying to figure out how to maintain at a specific firehouse when F&ES staff addition of an incident their work schedule of 24-hour shifts – to came in contact with a COVID-positive command post at the pier, a include work duties, eating, sleeping, person. first for Commander, Navy and leisure time all within the confines of But through the challenges, NAVSTA Installations Command the fire station; while applying mitigation Rota F&ES had several highs for 2020. (CNIC), as “huge” for measures to keep the crew safe. They were the first in the region to send managing pier incidents “It was difficult to say the least,” said local national firefighters to the rigorous and fires. Shane Rayfield, NAVSTA Rota fire chief. DoD firefighting school, Louis F. Garland These two “Maintaining social distancing with three Fire Academy, in Goodfellow, Texas. achievements will have shifts and 56 firefighters was tiresome.” “Although Navy Region EURAFCENT far-reaching impact, but Shawn Herrera, Assistant Fire Chief onboard Naval Station But similar to fighting fires, Rayfield [Europe, Africa, and Central] employs there were also significant (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain, briefs Vice Adm. Gene Black, commander, and the team learned to adapt, overcome 112 Host National employees on three strides in the quality of day- U.S. Sixth Fleet, on fire and emergency operations during a tour and continue to meet the mission. As each different continents, the two Spanish to-day F&ES operations. of the installation, Dec. 9, 2020. firefighters are the first of them to This year, the department ever attend and pass the extremely also upgraded and vehicles in service,” explained Rayfield. challenging course,” said Regional procured new radios for the department The year has been full of ups and Fire Chief Joseph Orona, program as well as having an onsite emergency downs but the team at Rota F&ES director for EURAFCENT Fire and vehicle technician. continues to wake up each day and fight Emergency Services. “This has enabled us to be the only whatever “fires” may come their way. The first two firefighters to installations that has 100% frontline “We are blessed with all the graduate were Manuel Martinez achievements we've had amidst the Diaz and Juan Jerez Fernandez, who pandemic,” said Rayfield. “I'm just glad my were followed shortly thereafter by team is safe and I've realized that fighting Eduardo Lopez Mejia. They returned a fire is a lot easier than combating a to Rota F&ES ready to use the pandemic.” 10 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Naval Station Rota Religious Ministry Department Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota Throughout the State of Alarm, the Religious Ministry department focuses Religious Ministry department produced on improving morale and building spiritual 65 videos that were viewed over 150,000 resiliency of their community. To achieve times – by Rota community members and these objectives, the chaplains and abroad. Religious Programs Specialists (RP) “These videos served as a way to facilitate the gathering of the different inspire and encourage the community faith congregations to allow them to during the lockdown we experienced,” interact with one another, build a sense said Curtis. of belonging, and work to improve As restrictions eased, the religious themselves. communities were again able to begin But then 2020 happened. The pandemic meeting in-person with COVID-19 left the team asking the question, “How mitigations. Through a partnership can you continue to offer resources that with MWR, Housing, and the help of spiritually enrich, build resiliency and exceptional Spanish weather, the Catholic morale in the midst of a global pandemic?” and Protestant communities resumed Answering that question compelled them live gatherings by meeting at the MWR to find new ways to deliver meaningful and Drive-In Theater. After six weeks, the impactful ministry. communities migrated over to the Sea "It was uncharted territory for the View Pines Amphitheater. It was a perfect Seeing their smiles and joy that have Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class. Religious Ministry team but through venue to provide physical distancing and a come from helping others has been the Maria Ruiz-Rojas celebrated 20 years at cooperation and coordination, the great view of the ocean while maintaining reason that she comes to work every day. the Chapel. This is all to remind us that religious needs were met,” said Lt. Milo reverence and holiness for the religious “I am very happy because this was despite the many challenges and unique Curtis, a chaplain assigned to NAVSTA services that were performed. the job I always wanted, being here in situations of living through a pandemic, Rota. As the weather began to cool, the the chapel allowed me to help anyone I there are things that remain constant – As Spain entered its State of Alarm mid- two religious communities transitioned could,” said Ruiz-Rojas. “It helped me be like faith – and you just have to trust. March, the country went into lockdown. All back to the Chapel in November but the bridge between the people and the "Team Rota, my family and I are so religious programs were forced to move increased frequency. Both Catholic Mass chaplains.” glad to be a part of this community and online so the faith communities could and Protestant worship service offer two Through all these changes, the are looking forward expectantly to all that continue to “gather” and practice their services every Sunday to ensure physical constant drum beat of military life 2021 has to offer,” said Moore. “I have the faith. These communities were particularly distancing of their congregations. continued at the Chapel. The team bid privilege of serving with a tremendous important during this time of uncertainty The Jewish Community continues farewell to Cmdr. Samuel Ravelo and group of professionals here at the Chapel. and isolation. to meet virtually with limited in-person welcomed Cmdr. Tony Moore as the Please do not hesitate to contact us if we Amanda Gipson, lay leader for the gatherings for Shabbat prayer services. command chaplain. Petty Officer Caitlin can be of service to you and your family." Jewish community, switched from In December, the community gathered Stephens was meritoriously promoted to providing in-person Shabbat prayer outdoors for the lighting of the Chanukah services and religious education class candle and to celebrate the start of together despite being physically apart. to gathering virtually and once possible, Chanukah. “We adapted some of our traditional having limited people attend in person The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter USO Rota center programs for virtual delivery,” for Holy Days. Day Saints Lay service returned to the USO Rota started off 2020 with their said DeAnna Pazdyk, center manager The Roman Catholic Community, led Chapel and began meeting in person usual programs like “Soup-er” Bowl, trivia, for USO Rota. “Content that we have by Lt. Tomek Maka, gathered online for in November. The LDS community “Treats for your Sweets” Valentine’s day created and are sharing on FB are things live virtual Mass and religious education. continues to meet with mitigations in place program, homecoming support, and more. such as: Spanish tip of the day, Recipe The Protestant Community provided to allow people to practice their faith on They provided these services to the local Round-Up with Tara, Work Out tips from worship playlists, online teachings, and the base. community as taking care of transient Kelli, Storytime with Kayla, and tutorials virtual Bible studies. While many of the obstacles have personnel. like professional pointers, craft time, and For the Rota community at large, the been overcome, there are some faith Similar to everyone worldwide, USO chaplains delivered daily inspirational events that were unable to take place science experiments designed to be done videos, called “Thought of the Day.” this year. One tradition for the holiday Rota was faced with the challenge of how with ingredients most of us have on hand.” season is the Chapel’s annual Sounds to deliver their programs during a global They also planned larger virtual of Christmas choir concert which features pandemic and Spain’s State of Alarm. engagement activities such as the base music from throughout the community – USO Rota had to close their physical flash mob where community members both American and Spanish. This event doors but immediately began looking submitted videos as well as footage taken is a favorite of Maria Ruiz-Rojas, a local for creative ways to provide service to by USO Rota as they rode along with first national employee at the Chapel, but due our military community and keep them responders in base housing. The video to COVID mitigations the event was not connected to family. brought the community together and got able to take place this year. The USO Rota team regrouped and Ruiz-Rojas enjoys the concert and quickly pivoted to virtual programing to working with families from the various ensure that the community could stay See USO ROTA Page 11 communities, especially with the children. Coastline | December 17, 2020 11 maintaining physical distancing and host USO ROTA nation restrictions. They offered book NAVSTA Rota Human Resources Office Continued from page 10 clubs, social walking groups, craft and The Human Resources Office (HRO) activity kits, and welcome kits to families provides staffing, recruitment, employee them dancing in their bubble! in restriction of movement (ROM). USO entitlements and allowances, employee For Memorial Day, USO Rota had Rota provided commands with support and labor relations, training, and to revamp their usual 24-hour walk/ through Zoom gaming and hygiene packs classification for local national (LN) and run keeping the flag aloft. This year, for Rota’s expeditionary forces. U.S. civilian employees, to over 25 base USO Rota did a virtual ceremony where Despite the lockdown and COVID departments and commands. people were asked to submit what they restrictions, USO Rota did not slow down This year, COVID-19 brought significant were doing to honor the fallen and USO even though their doors were closed. hiring challenges to Rota. Office closures Rota compiled a video with personal Instead, they focused on acts of kindness forced HRO to review and revamp our remembrances and tributes to share with to provide bright spots and help where LN application procedures. In order to the community. needs were identified. Ultimately, USO facilitate the need to continue the hiring The team continued to provide visiting Rota and their volunteers were able to process for LN employment, we converted submarines and ships with services by successfully provide over 34,860 service to a fully electronic application process. working with base departments. This instances….and they have no intention Through close coordination with outside allowed USO Rota to provide contactless of slowing down as the year comes to parties and staffing section, HRO was able BBQs and pool parties so crews could an end! USO Rota is still working to to implement the electronic application maintain their “bubble” and enjoy sunny ensure expeditionary forces at Rota process and get it fully operational in just certificates of movement to authorize Spain! and Moron Air Base are taken care of a few short months. LNs employees come to work. So far, USO Rota found creative ways to with holiday packs and parties. They are The office received 927 internal during the second State of Alarm, a total provide a sense of community while also continuing their applications for 89 internal announcements of 493 requests have been processed. annual Operation and 1,254 external applications for 29 Additionally, HRO has coordinated with Cookie Drop, external announcements. The staff the Prevention Service and U.S. Naval with over 2,000 processed 2,530 labor status documents Hospital Rota regarding situations where cookies delivered (personnel actions for LNs), classified over LNs are put on sick leave status due to to watchstanders 70 position descriptions, and processed COVID-19 related matters. across the base 1,660 U.S. and LN awards. NAVSTA Rota HRO has a total of 19 on Christmas Eve HRO has worked on a telework policy personnel comprised of 15 LNs and 4 and Christmas day, for LNs to be implemented for current and U.S. personnel. but with all safety future needs, in case of emergencies, precautions in place. and when continuation of operations are "Happy Holidays required. HRO staff are currently compiling U.S. Hires: 75 to everyone near and data from departments/activities in order far," said Pazdyk. to provide required training previous to the Temporary Local Nationals: 38 “We look forward to signature of telework agreements. serving you in the During the first State of Alarm in Permanent Local Nationals: 127

New Year!” March, HRO coordinated a total of 640 2020 HIRING 12 December 17, 2020 | Coastline COMSIXTHFLT Mine Countermeasures Detachment Rota Historically, the U.S. Navy has relied pandemic and the ever-changing safety on sonar platforms employed by mine- protocols. MCM Det. Rota demonstrated hunting ships, aircraft, or divers to perform their expertise by transporting heavy search operations for underwater sea and expensive equipment within theater mines that pose significant threats to – which is tedious in normal times – but maritime traffic. In recent years, the during a pandemic, compounded the Navy mine countermeasures (MCM) logistical challenges. force has become increasingly reliant on The first hurdle was to get all team unmanned systems to perform this task members and equipment to Italy. After in a safer and more efficient manner. meeting all host nation and navies’ entry This year, Commander, Sixth Fleet requirements as well as the mandatory (COMSIXTHFLT) MCM Detachment restriction of movement (ROM), the Rota participated in a joint experiment team established a COVID-free “bubble” that resulted in Underwater Unmanned aboard Alliance for the duration of the Vehicles (UUVs) achieving collaborative experiment. autonomy. Alliance experienced several days of "The success of this collaborative high winds and heavy seas – and was autonomy event demonstrates a even forced to seek refuge in port Toulon technological breakthrough leading – that prevented the team from launching autonomy between two MK18 Mod 2 for Dynamic Mariner, we look forward to to more efficient mine clearance with and recovering UUVs. Once the weather UUVs. This meant the two UUVs worked more successful experimentation events unmanned systems,” said Lt. Cmdr. Rick subsided, the U.S. team stepped into in tandem with a lead MK18 surveying the next year to improve the Navy's MCM Haley, executive officer for COMSIXTHFLT overdrive by working around-the-clock, bottom while a second MK18 conducted capability." MCM Det Rota. “This is a significant step performing multiple UUV missions by detailed searches with side-scan sonar on COMSIXTHFLT MCM Det Rota is a to further automate the U.S. Navy's ability day, and analyzing data by night to finish contacts called by the lead UUV. relatively new command on Naval Station to find, fix, and finish underwater mines surveying the entire exercise area of The ability to search, locate, and (NAVSTA) Rota. Established in 2019, the to ensure freedom of movement in the approximately 19 nautical miles. reacquire targets in-stride is an operational detachment was developed to address maritime domain." With intelligence preparation of the first for the U.S. Navy and a breakthrough Sixth Fleet’s need for MCM planning and For the first time in this theater, operating environment (IPOE) complete, in UUV experimentation. This simple command and control within the fleet. The U.S. Navy Mk 18 Mod 2 UUV systems the team then focused their attention application has the potential to reduce detachment utilizes Mk 18 UUV systems successfully demonstrated the ability on conducting collaborative autonomy mine hunting timelines from days to just in order to perform experimentation and to autonomously identify underwater trials. UUVs have begun to implement hours, in addition to the accuracy and intelligence preparation of the operating mine contacts using side scan sonar automated target recognition (ATR) quality of the sonar imagery captured. environment (IPOE) missions. Despite and acoustically pass real-time data allowing the underwater vehicles to The success of this event is a testament a small team, the group’s responsibility from one UUV to another, allowing autonomously identify mine shapes – a to the ingenuity, innovation, dedication, spectrum ranges from operational further inspection and identification of task normally required to be completed and adaptability of U.S. Navy Sailors level MCM planning and NATO MCM underwater contacts. by human operators analyzing post- and civilians. Overcoming technological integration to tactical level employment The experiment was joint effort, mission sonar data. This application hurdles and weather, they were able to of UUV systems in support of fleet with equipment and personnel from allows mine detection and identification achieve their objectives while ensuring objectives. COMSIXTHFLT MCM Detachment Rota to be performed quicker and more all personnel and equipment deployed, and civilians from Navy Information safely than relying solely on humans. In accomplished the mission, and returned Warfare Center Pacific (NIWC PAC) addition, the demonstrated ability of UUVs home safely — COVID free. and SeeByte, Inc., completed onboard to “talk” to one another using acoustic "Our next major experimentation event By the Numbers: focused on developing this technology in NATO research vessel Alliance as a communications while completing search + 8 UUV missions completed theater will happen in conjunction with part of the French Maritime Forces operations is a significant breakthrough + 19 square nautical miles of bottom exercise Dynamic Mariner 2020. With leading to more efficient minefield exercise BALTOPS 50,” said Lt. Evan surveyed over 20 personnel traveling from four clearance. Day, operations officer for COMSIXTHFLT different countries, rigorous planning and In their first attempt, MCM Det Rota was MCM Det Rota. “After overcoming + 100 hours of UUV in-water flexibility were required given the current successful in demonstrating collaborative numerous safety and logistical hurdles operations; + 100 hours of post-mission sonar data analysis completed + 5 Intelligence Preparation of the Operating Environment (IPOE) missions completed + 3 Successful UUV collaborative autonomy missions completed + 31 days of ROM/quarantine completed by each participant to enable the experimentation event + 5 days lost to adverse weather Coastline | December 17, 2020 13 14 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Commander, Destroyer Squadron 60 (DESRON 60) Commander, Task Force (CTF) 65 Staying Safe While Coordinating Multi-National Exercises Staying Operational during COVID-19 COVID-19 brought unprecedented challenges instructors to Naval Station Rota to conduct COVID-19 did not slow down never lost sight of the mission. “ to Commander, Destroyer Squadron 60’s critical damage control training for 300 shipboard operations at Commander Due to travel restrictions, CTF (DESRON 60) mission of ensuring our ships Sailors reducing downtime due to mandatory Task Force 65 (CTF 65) as, the 65 was able to improvise and remain optimally manned, trained and equipped. 14-day restriction of movement (ROM) for all command had a successful year of create virtual planning procedures Growth through challenge has been DESRON personal traveling and the potential for spreading supporting operations, exercises, resulting in the successful 60’s motto this year and her achievements reflect the virus. and training evolutions throughout execution of Exercise Sea Breeze, that. The introduction of terms like “COVID Europe, Africa and the 6th Fleet a multi-national NATO exercise “A 120-day stop movement order and Bubble” quickly forced our fleet training and area of responsibility. with Ukraine that took place in the the introduction of mandatory restrictions of readiness departments to become experts in CTF 65 oversaw the homeport Black Sea. movement on any round trip for the U.S. to Rota the methodology of “bubble-to-bubble” transfers shifts of ArleighBurke-class In addition to completing first forces us to coordinate more closely than ever and to work through the extensive logistical guided-missile destroyers USS time multi-national exercises, before with our partner organizations,” said Chief challenges presented. Carney (DDG 64) and USS Carney circumnavigated Africa, Staff Readiness Officer Cmdr. Matthew Powel. “Our logistic specialists have worked tirelessly Roosevelt (DDG 80) all while Ross operated with the French to ensure that the limitations and logistics of “We were able to accomplish more with less while completing their final move to the carrier Charles De Gaulle and still meeting the mission.” travel have never prevented a ship from receiving new permanent headquarters with Forward-Deployed Naval Forces- DESRON 60’s success would not have critical parts no matter where in the theater they their homeport shift from Naples to Europe ships made seven trips happened without the dedication of her staff. A were needed,” said Powel. Rota in 2019. to the Black Sea, three trips team of three Navy Yeoman processed over 600 Naval Munitions Command has successfully “Homeport shifts are hard to the Baltic and maintained individual travel waivers in support of Forward executed 13 ammunition movements while enough already,” said CTF 65 tactical control of six other ships Deployed Sailors ensuring the Navy kept moving maintaining the integrity of “COVID Bubbles” and forward. preventing the spread of illness. Commodore Capt. Joe Gagliano. throughout the year. “Our admin department has dedicated “Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Terry Ramos “But to complete it flawlessly in the "I am amazed at how mature our hundreds of hours of their time outside of normal and his team have done a wonderful job middle of a pandemic shows what Sailors have been this year when working hours to support the needs of over 1,000 ensuring the 'tip of the spear' remains sharp,” true professionals are onboard it comes to the restrictions and Sailors on the waterfront," said Assistant Training said Ordnance Manager Chief Fire Controlman USS Roosevelt.” requirements that COVID-19 has and Readiness Officer Lt. Tereza Skruzna. "Every Virginia Hansen. COVID brought with it new brought to the way we conduct our PCS, TDY, or leave request has passed through Internationally, CDS 60’s greatest success restrictions, but Sailors stationed business,” said CTF 65 Command their hands." was the full execution of exercise Joint Warrior aboard Carney and Roosevelt Master Chief Gary Rosenbaum. In addition to taking care of her people, in conjunction with multiple NATO nations and stayed steadfast and were able to “From the long underway time DESRON 60 maintained readiness through ensuring theater certification for Arleigh Burke- complete three multi-ship Barents to very limited liberty to the need inspections and training. class guided-missile destroyers USS Donald Sea Operations for the first time in to support shipmates, family and “Despite the COVID restrictions in place, we Cook (DDG 75) and USS Ross (DDG 71). 30 years. friends during ROM (restriction were able to work directly with the Afloat Training “2020 has presented unique challenges in “Though COVID provided of movement), the Sailors in our Group (ATG) and all other training groups to every aspect of our lives. DESRON 60, her staff, unique challenges, the Sailors fleet have executed the mission ensure that force generation was maintained and our ships have met each of these challenges of CTF 65 demonstrated their remarkably. They have shown throughout the pandemic,” said Training and in innovative ways, allowing the ships of our resiliency throughout the year,” everyone that they do have the Readiness Officer Lt. Cmdr. Christopher Zeller. DESRON to meet and exceed all operational said CTF 65 Deputy Commodore right stuff and they are a generation In addition to ATG supporting every required requirements,” said Deputy Commodore Capt. Capt. Kyle Gantt. “Our Sailors that can lead us in the future. We certification event, Surface Warfare School Kyle Gantt. came together as a team and are proud of you, Shipmates!” Command went above the call and sent 30

IN EL PUERTO DE SANTA MARÍA MIN FROM THE FUENTEBRAVÍA 3 GATE!!!

Avenida de Fuentebravía 3. El Puerto de Santa María (36.603757, -6.266260) TM Burger King Corporation © 2018 Burger King Europe GmbH. All rights reserved. Coastline | December 17, 2020 15 NAVSTA Rota Emergency Management Department This has been a difficult and challenging mask use allowing dispatchers to remain year to say the least! But it was met with operationally ready. opportunities and change to ensure the Some of the implemented restrictions, emergency management (EM) program such as strict adherence to minimum continued to provide a service to the manning actually resulted in an increased community, even during the most difficult workload for those on duty but it was times. embraced because it was for safety of It was made possible because of the not only themselves, but their families too. selfless dedication and flexibility of the Changes to the posture and processes personnel in Naval Station (NAVSTA) in the Emergency Operation Center Rota's Emergency Management (EOC) were also made by performing Department, especially the local dispatch monthly EOC training virtually, restricting center (LDC) civilian and military participation to an as-needed vice fully- dispatchers. manned EOC, and implemented the same EM implemented mitigation factors hand sanitizer and frequent equipment like limited presence in the LDC, use of disinfecting practices that were being hand sanitizer, and frequent disinfecting of performed in dispatch. shared equipment such as desks, phones, Even with the challenges, EM was chairs, and computers but they overcame able to complete the required quarterly the obstacles. They even implemented emergency management working groups, some physical safeguards like Plexiglas monthly EOC training, EM annual barriers in the LDC and strict adherence to inspections, and maintain a posture of and capabilities in some measurable Forces Network, Public Affairs, Defense mission-ready to manner," said Emergency Management Commissary Agency, American Red provide response- Officer, Rick Peterson, "but it’s a pleasure Cross and many others helped EM support. to capture the sacrifice-for-success efforts continue to be successful and effective Many of the of everyone involved. throughout 2020. adopted practices The department's public awareness “For that, we thank you the community, such as physical events continued in 2020 but were less and the many other departments and distancing, intrusive as years past. They reminded associations not already mentioned,” said teleworking when the community of the exceptional sacrifice Peterson. "We welcome our newly arriving able, mask wearing of our LDC dispatchers during the National EM personnel (Ms. Duck, Mr. Gormley, in all shared Public Safety Telecommunicator Week AO1 Pfeilsticker) and wish Fair Winds and spaces, and staying in April and the inclusive community Following Seas to those that have moved home when sick will of preparedness and awareness on (Mr. Couto, Mr. Harris, Mr. Kwak, ABH2 continue. during National Preparedness Month Creagh, FC1 Green, DC1 Hunter) during "Each practice in September. The support from Fleet this period. Remember; Disasters don’t affected our abilities and Family Service Center, American wait. Make your plan today.” 16 December 17, 2020 | Coastline USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) Carrying a camera bag and orders healthy bubbles in the operating area. to his first afloat command, Mass Though Collins wasn’t expecting to join Communication Specialist Seaman the crew on what became known as Austin Collins stepped aboard the Arleigh “mini-patrol,” he took advantage of the Burke-class guided-missile destroyer experience to earn his sea legs and hone USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) to begin his his skills as an MC. He was pleasantly assignment as the embarked mass surprised to find himself inducted into the communications specialist (MC) for the “Order of the Blue Nose” too. When the upcoming homeport shift. Though the ship returned to Spain a month later, he most junior MC at Navy Public Affairs said he was grateful for the adventure. His Support Element-Southeast, Roosevelt’s only regret was that he didn’t have enough transition from Mayport, Florida to Rota, time to earn his Enlisted Surface Warfare Spain necessitated his presence and Specialist (ESWS) pin. Collins detached talents for the 10-day transit. from Roosevelt and spent a few weeks at This was not just another homeport shift Armed Forces Network (AFN) Rota before after all: Roosevelt’s new membership in a flight home. MC3 Austin Collins Commander Task Force (CTF) 65 and Meanwhile, the number of COVID Forward Deployed Naval Forces-Europe cases were growing and Roosevelt’s (FDNF-E) was historic. Her presence in request for a MC for the duration of Force Europe and a host of passing and homeport shift, an unplanned underway, 6th Fleet served as the culminating stage the patrol was met with the recognition tracking exercises with NATO nations and and successful first patrol during a global of the 2009 European Phased Adaptive that Collins was still in Spain and well- partners to include a meaningful event pandemic, Collins’ 10 days at sea had Approach which supplemented NATO’s prepared to reintegrate with the crew. He with 25 military officers and dignitaries turned into 207 days. ballistic missile defense system with was not thrilled at the prospect of four in Algiers, Algeria. Roosevelt proved her Collins’ story is one of many among U.S. technologies and support. Collins months away from his parent command mettle as a warfighter and virtue as a Roosevelt’s crew that demonstrates was expected to document the ship’s and his loved ones, but he drew strength member of the powerful NATO Alliance. resiliency, grit, and perseverance in exercises underway and her arrival in- from their support and reveled in the Collins was there to capture each uncertain and evolving times. Plans and port. After a busy transatlantic voyage and opportunities Roosevelt offered. poignant moment. Though Roosevelt’s tasking changed again and again to meet change of command ceremony, he would Roosevelt continued making history accomplishments demanded much of operational needs over the course of the return stateside to his new bride. At least, over the course of her inaugural patrol. his time, he made good on his goal to year. With these changes, Roosevelt’s that was the plan. She participated in Exercise Dynamic earn his ESWS pin. He found himself leadership, crew, and families endured COVID-19 emerged just as Roosevelt Mongoose, travelled to the 76th Parallel pleasantly surprised once more to have with the patient understanding of sacrifice began her voyage and the schedule grew in the Arctic Circle, and sailed through also earned a Navy Achievement Medal and service. As 2020 comes to a close, from 10 to 22 days. The ship arrived in the storied waters of the Mediterranean and win the $5,000 grand prize in the the crew looks to the year ahead with Rota with little fanfare, refueled quickly, and Black seas. She conducted joint final bingo tournament! When Roosevelt hope for the future and pride in their past: then returned to sea as one of the few interoperability operations with U.S. Air finally returned to Rota after a grueling USS Roosevelt and her crew are capable, strong, and prepared for any challenge.

MH-60R hours flown: 217.7 hours 6 countries, 2 continents Crab legs: 940 lbs 36 days above the Arctic Circle Eggs: 6,270 dozen MH-60R Landings: 346 Nautical Miles: 26,446 Ribeye Steak: 2,590 lbs Water produced: 600,000 gallons F-76 fuel consumed: 4,163,585 gallons Milk: 1,375 gallons

Fuel burned: 404,240 gallons Patrol 1 JP-5 supplied: 66,091 gallons Energy drinks sold: 14,200 Water produced: 2,800,000 gallons Nautical Miles Traveled: 16,202 By The Numbers By the Numbers Numbers the By Homeport Mini Patrol Shift / USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) Sailor Keeps Shipmates Safe during COVID-19 COVID-19 has added many challenges “Our junior Sailors are our first line to the U.S. Navy’s mission, including of defense against the virus,” said maintaining a safe work environment for Cmdr. Kelley Jones, commanding Sailors. The crew of Arleigh Burke-class officer of Donald Cook. “Their roles as guided-missile destroyer USS Donald watchstanders are even more important Cook (DDG 75) has remained COVID-19 than usual. They protect us against both free this year, due to the diligence visible threats and now invisible ones and sharp watch-standing of her crew. too. Petty Officer Escamilla did what Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Josebagino I hope every junior Sailor would have Escamilla, assigned to Donald Cook, the courage to do – look for the signs of received a Navy and Marine Corps COVID and keep the ship safe.” Achievement Medal (NAM), Oct. 21, after Escamilla is a native of Biscoe, North stopping a visitor from boarding the ship Carolina and has been in the Navy for a with COVID-19 symptoms. little over a year. “As the Sailor approached the ship, “I was surprised to hear I was being I could hear him coughing pretty loudly awarded a NAM,” he said. “I was just from a distance, so I knew something doing my job as a watchstander.” wasn’t right,” said Escamilla. “I continued Donald Cook completed her 10th GM3 Josebagino Escamilla with the screening process, and when I FDNF-E Patrol of the 6th Fleet AOR asked him if he had any of the following in June 2020, and was the first Rota symptoms, he answered that he had been destroyer to execute brief stops for “We have adjusted our patrols to fit a assigned to Commander, Task Force 65 feeling a couple of them. I made sure fuel and stores in foreign ports with new normal,” said Jones. “COVID has in support of NATO’s Integrated Air Missile medical was informed of the situation so minimal-contact COVID measures. The certainly changed certain aspects, but Defense architecture. In support of 6th they could examine him.” ship is currently on her 11th FDNF-E we’ve managed to continue the 6th Fleet Fleet, these Forward-Deployed Naval Knowing the contagiousness and Patrol, for which the crew established mission while protecting the crew. During Forces-Europe ships have the flexibility to seriousness of the virus, Escamilla was a quarantined COVID “bubble” since this unprecedented time, I couldn’t be operate throughout the waters of Europe not willing to take any chances. His September. The crew continues to refuel more proud of these Sailors and their and Africa, from the Cape of Good Hope actions may have prevented an outbreak and replenish without outside contact families.” to the Arctic Circle, demonstrating their onboard Donald Cook and Naval Station as well as continuing routine operations Donald Cook is one of four U.S. Navy mastery of the maritime domain. (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain. without exposing the crew to the virus. destroyers based in Rota, Spain, and Coastline | December 17, 2020 17 USS Porter (DDG 78) As the year comes to a close, the Ralston, commanding officer of USS Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile Porter. “Whether it was operating in the destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) and High North, in the Black Sea, executing her crew look back on a successful a minimal notice INSURV, or succeeding eighth patrol and an in-port period – in a challenging COVID-19 environment, especially considering the extenuating Porter and her crew have excelled circumstances of maintaining mission through determination and a shared readiness during a global pandemic. sense of purpose and ownership.” Porter traveled 34,150 nautical miles The crew participated in operations with over her 155-day patrol, transiting the allied and partner nations including at-sea Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, Norwegian training with the Romanian navy in the Sea, Barents Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea; joint interoperability exercises Black Sea, English Channel, Strait of with the Italian and French navies in the Gibraltar, Strait of Sicily, and the Turkish Mediterranean Sea; operations within Straits. a Surface Action Group with the Royal Hunter Hazlett. “It makes you feel as if to return to sea for her ninth patrol "I'm incredibly proud of the hard work navy in the High North and Barents Sea; you’re involved in something bigger than beginning December 2020. and dedication this crew has shown over passing exercises (PASSEX) with the yourself.” “We are ready to start our ninth patrol the past 12 months,” said Cmdr. Thomas Tunisian navy; exercise Sea Breeze 2020 Porter also established the first and look forward to seeing what the next with Ukrainian, Romanian, Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations year brings, and stand ready to answer Turkish, Georgian, (EMSO) cell on the waterfront and the nation's call," said Ralston. Bulgarian, and Spanish was nominated by Destroyer navies; and a Black Sea Squadron 60 for the Association protection operation with of Old Crows Award. NATO and other U.S. In August, Porter held a European Command change of command ceremony components that focused where Cmdr. Thomas G. on both joint and NATO Ralston relieved Cmdr. interoperability. Craig Trent as commanding “It’s always exciting officer. Ralston immediately being a part of such large began preparing Porter scale operations,” said for an extensive pier-side Quarter Master 3rd Class maintenance period to prepare USS Ross (DDG 71) Sailors were the first on scene to render After completing Exercise Joint lifesaving assistance to men in the water Warrior 20-2, Ross joined Henry J. before handing the situation over to the Kaiser-class Replenishment Oiler Turkish Coast Guard. USNS Laramie (T-AO-203) to conduct “Our Sailors’ quick and effective multiple replenishment-at-sea evolutions response in challenging times proved to within the harsh arctic climate, allowing us what we already know, that we engage uninterrupted supply lines for sustained in diverse and focused training to react operations in the Barents. quickly and safely when every second “This past year has been filled with counts,” said Lt. j.g. Jacqueline Benedict, notable challenges that have forced us rescue and assistance team member. to think differently about how we solve Ross concluded her 9th FDNF patrol problems,” said Commanding Officer on March 14, 2020, only to be faced with a Cmdr. John D. John. “Onboard Ross, new challenge that the crew took on head we value the health of our crew and the first: the global COVID-19 pandemic. importance of accomplishing the mission, However, Ross adapted to the challenges both of which are mutually dependent at hand by continuing to accomplish on each other. Thanks to the dedication The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile in which Ross was able to participate necessary in-port maintenance while of every member of Team Ross, we destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) finished allowed us to make the most of our training respecting local protocol and entering a were able to achieve both of our goals 2020 with two forward-deployed naval by operating with international partners period of sequester to establish a COVID- by staying COVID-free and supporting forces (FDNF) patrols in the U.S. 6th and allies,” said Combat Information free bubble, allowing for total mission maritime stability with our allies in the Fleet area of operations in support of Center Officer Lt. j.g. Joseph Carroll. readiness. Barents, Baltic, and North Atlantic seas.” U.S. national security interests in Europe “I never stop being impressed by the “The biggest challenge with sequester After a busy year in 6th Fleet, through and Africa during the global COVID-19 adaptability of our Sailors when called was maintaining a safe bubble,” said exercises in the Atlantic Ocean and the pandemic. Throughout the year, Ross upon to team up with regional partners in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, native, Hospital Mediterranean, Baltic, Barents, and Black conducted various multinational exercises defense of maritime security.” Corpsman 2nd Class Marissa Jenkins. seas, Ross is thrilled to return home in to improve interoperability between allies When not completing multi-national “We administered approximately 588 time for the holidays. and partner countries, as well as training exercise, Ross could be counted on to COVID tests, ensuring everyone was in all warfare areas for Ross Sailors, escort Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike double tested.” while successfully maintaining mission Group 8 east across the Mediterranean In early September as part of a Surface readiness in a COVID-free bubble. and as well as conducting maritime Action Group, Ross, along with a P-8A During her 9th patrol, Ross participated security operations in the Black Sea in Poseidon from Patrol Squadron (VP) 47, in two multi-national exercises, PEAN 19 support of regional security and stability began its 10th Forward Deployed Naval and FOCH 20, with French navy Charles while participating in dynamic at-sea Forces-Europe patrol. Ross partnered de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group Task Force training with regional allies. with the Royal British and Norwegian navy (CTF 473) working with naval and air While transiting south through the to conduct maritime security operations assets from France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkish Straits in the Sea of Marmara, in the Barents Sea before joining NATO Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Ross’s look-outs spotted smoke and and allied forces in Exercise Joint Warrior “The countless multinational exercises flames coming from a small vessel. Ross 20-2, in the Northeast Atlantic. 18 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) Rota 2020 brought unexpected phones to meet the need for increased challenges and struggles. No one information and referral services anticipated a virus that would require where they responded quickly us to remain at home, limit our social and effectively. FFSC coordinated activities, telework, and wear a mask. the filming and distribution of a Doomscrolling through social media video recording of the installation's feeds became the new pastime. We Intercultural Relations program so turned to technology to meet social new personnel could view and attend needs, to complete our professional the virtual version of ICR during their responsibilities, and to simply distract ROM. us from the stress of the day. FFSC collaborated with Rota And yet, throughout the challenge, MWR to provide weekly support we persevered. We found ways to and connection activities to maintain meaningful connections unaccompanied service members. reach out and reach in, while heightened interest in home-based with those we loved. We reached Titled Beat the Barracks Blues, this encouraging frank, open discussions businesses as well as a significant out to our families, our friends, virtual program utilized social media to address this silent crisis. The video increase in resume and employment our colleagues, our fellow service to share coping tips. FFSC topics received over 1,100 views in the first counseling sessions. members, our community, and our including relaxation techniques and two weeks of posting. Additionally, To recognize the heroic actions of retirees to make sure they were safe managing feelings of loneliness; FFSC promoted the Defense Suicide our community during the pandemic, and well cared for. We all took a deep the six videos received nearly 3,000 Prevention Office #bethere campaign FFSC created Champions of Rota, a breath, strengthened our resolve, and views. by participating in the Virtual Run/Walk video recognizing the dedication of collectively stepped up to the meet the “FFSC increased our digital for Life, contributing an article to the first responders, healthcare workers, new demands. content to meet customer needs Coastline newspaper and developing teachers, mental health providers, and The Fleet and Family Support during the pandemic,” said Semancik. a support (SOS) response program Ombudsmen. FFSC Rota solicited Center (FFSC) Rota team was up for “We found ways to connect with the to provide easy access and contact pictures and drawings from children the challenge and quickly began to community virtually on social media. information for suicide prevention, to use in the video to thank the adjust their programs and services. We filmed inspiring educational videos family advocacy and sexual assault. community for their strength and “FFSC staff know how to mobilize on topics of self-care, relaxation FFSC’s 2020 Rota Ignites Spouse dedication. during a crisis,” said Kim Semancik, techniques, military family and Enrichment Expo was executed SAPR maintained a full response director of FFSC Rota. “When the spouse appreciation, gratitude for first virtually to provide enrichment capacity throughout every stage shutdown was announced in Spain, responders, and managing feelings of experiences for the Rota spouse of COVID and collaborated FFSC staff got busy. They grabbed loneliness. We even offered a Spanish community. Usually a one-day, in- with stakeholders, including the their cell phones, opened their laptops cooking show!” person expo, it was expanded into hospital, to ensure seamless victim and began working from home to The Clinical team wrote social a month-long virtual celebration that response that included necessary develop new programs.” media posts, including three virtual included weekly themes of education, safety protocols for the wellbeing of Semancik said she was in awe newsletters, on how to cope during the employment, and empowerment. victims and advocates. Thanks to of their energy, flexibility, and State of Alarm restrictions, including FFSC offered training opportunities the extraordinary commitment and compassion to initiate and execute an a focus on parenting, staying safe through webinars, AFN live consistent communication of SAPR immediate and long-lasting pandemic emotionally and in relationships, broadcasts, and interactive Facebook and its stakeholders, all aspects of response. One example included anxiety in adults and youth, and posts. Community organizations such SAPR services remained available to transitioning from in-person, drop-in relationship communication skills. We as USO, RAWL, Navy College, and victims of sexual assault. The SAPR counseling to telephonic counseling offered additional resiliency education DECA collaborated in this virtual event. team adapted trainings to a virtual where community members could during our weekly AFN radio show. This event exceeded all expectations platform to ensure current Victim receive clinical counseling from FFSC supported suicide prevention and allowed for personalized training Advocates and points of contact the comfort and safety of their own awareness by working with command experiences and greater participation (POCs) received the required initial homes. leadership to film a suicide prevention reaching over 1,000 community and continuing education necessary to The staff began carrying duty video. The video asks personnel to spouses. As a result, there was a fulfil their roles. This included adapting a 40-hour, week-long training to an approved virtual platform. The virtual trainings provided were dynamic and engaging and included activities and personalized conversations. “This past year has been like no other,” said Semancik. “We have suffered, we have struggled, and yet, we have grown. We have a deeper understanding of our need for community and personal interactions. We have a newfound appreciation for teachers, for first responders, for caretakers, for nature, for science. And as we look forward to 2021, we can rest in the knowledge that collectively, we came together to face a common challenge - and we did it with grace.”

Telephonic Counseling (April-Aug): >190 sessions Fleet & Family Support Center (FFSC) Rota

Inquiries by telephone/email (March-Oct): > 7,000 Community Support Building (CSB): Bldg. 3293, 1st Floor Phone: 727-3232 / +34 956-82-3232 Virtual ICR (March-Oct): 1,542 participants Email: [email protected] Facebook: www.facebook.com/ffsc.rota Virtual RISE event: > 1,000 Rota spouses participated By the Numbers NAVAL STATION ROTA QUALITY PROGRAMS OF LIFE ROTA STATION NAVAL Coastline | December 17, 2020 19 Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Rota Living overseas provides base While this wasn’t the ideal format personnel with numerous opportunities for recreation professionals and the to experience different cultures and community, it was well received by the countries, but what about those things Rota community and motivated the staff you miss from home? For many, the to continue to be innovative in how they annual progression of holidays serve as deliver programming. The next big holiday fixed points throughout the year marking would be the Fourth of July. the path forward. Overseas, several Spain was just beginning to enter its traditional American holiday events can de-escalation plan so it was hard to judge be hard to come by and this is where what the local conditions and restrictions Morale,v Welfare and Recreation (MWR) would be like in early July. Rota MWR steps in to fill that gap – and give you a had to prep and plan for several different taste of home. scenarios. This past year has been hard worldwide “During the pandemic, we have been due to the COVID-19 pandemic and many forced to create three or four feasible traditional holiday events being cancelled. contingency plans for each community For personnel at Naval Station (NAVSTA) event,” said Hasselbring. "Each plan Rota, Rota MWR worked to find solutions would then be reviewed by the several for annual American holiday events that fit different key players on the installation within the host nation restrictions. – both American and Spanish – and at a It started early in the year, with Spain regional level." entering its State of Alarm mid-March, Rota MWR thought outside the box for Halloween was quickly approaching as short notice, the community turned out only a few weeks before the annual Easter the Independence Fest and decided that Spain’s numbers were increasing. Rota to support. He also said it has been his egg hunt. tailgating was the perfect compromise MWR needed to find a solution to the favorite event thus far this year. “The Eggsplosion was our first big between hosting a community event, usual Trunk or Treat event at the drive-in. “The entire team had a blast at the test,” said Doug Hasselbring, Rota MWR supporting physical distancing, and “We had to figure out a way to provide Reverse Trick-or-Treat Halloween event,” Community Recreation director. “I don’t feeling like a bit of home. the essential elements of Halloween to said Hasselbring. “We could literally feel remember how many times we went “The Dinosaur parade was just the people in a way that was impactful but the positive energy emanating from the back to the drawing board before finally ridiculous element required to put a positive also kept everyone safe,” explained families that took part. It was bananas!” deciding on the final plan.” spin on 2020,” laughed Hasselbring. Hasselbring when describing how they As the year comes to an end, Rota Ultimately, the Rota MWR team Large community events were not the developed MWR’s Reverse Trick-or- MWR’s year of “outside the box” holiday prepped 900+ bags of candy-filled only programs that required MWR staff to Treat. “We brought Halloween to the events came to a close with the annual eggs, craft kits, spring-themed activities, look at with fresh eyes. people!” tree lighting event. This year the event jokes and recipe ideas. The bags were “This past year has forced us to get Candy convoy teams traveled through was held at the base drive-in instead of distributed in front of the Commissary creative with MWR programming by base housing tossing candy to costumed the usual location of the Navy Exchange during the week leading up to the holiday. thinking 'outside the box' with new ideas children. That evening, Rota MWR complex and included live music, a Santa Participants were encouraged to take and not traditional brick and mortar delivered over 1,500 bags of candy to sighting, the lighting of the trees, and photos of their at-home egg hunts and programming,” said Amy Hutyra, Rota the NAVSTA Rota community with the finished with a holiday movie. send pictures to Rota MWR to share. MWR marketing director. This included help of base leadership, USO Rota and While not the normal Rota tree lighting ideas such a Plan of the Day, various volunteers. event, the event certainly brought a taste workout videos, Beat the Barracks “I had the pleasure to go with one of the of home to everyone stationed here in collaboration project for Liberty patrons, three candy convoy delivery teams,” said Spain. and more. Hutyra. “It was so fun and fulfilling to know “I hope that we have been able to Throughout the de-escalation, Rota that we were able to provide something provide our local NAVSTA Rota community MWR reopened many of their facilities and for our community during this time. I with an overall sense of well-being, adjusted their programs to fit mandatory enjoyed seeing everyone’s costumes and community and a semblance of normalcy physical distancing and host nation excitement as the vehicles went by.” during this time of constant change and restrictions. Hasselbring said that despite the uncertainty,” said Hutyra. Which brings us back to the holidays, 20 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Rota David Glasgow Farragut (DGF) Schools School Liaison Officer (SLO) The New Normal … for Now: A Teacher’s Perspective For Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota sessions. Teaching and learning during a again. And, even though we have had School Liaison Officer (SLO) Randy In June, graduating seniors from Rota pandemic are daunting. After so many to rethink every aspect of our day, we Lambert, 2020 brought the usual flurry DGF Middle/High School were allowed to months away, teachers utilize laser- have persevered. We have reimagined of emails, homeschool meet & greets, participate in a live graduation ceremony focused instruction to course-correct. our practice. Spanish school informational sessions, on the campus football field. Although There are also many new challenges, Students and teachers are accustomed and more. However, the year quickly the number of attendeeswere limited and such as keeping out-of-practice learners to their austere classrooms or the shifted directions as the COVID-19 not the usual large crowd, graduates and motivated and balancing best teaching absence of collaborative learning spaces, pandemic began to spread worldwide. families were happy to have an in-person practices and safety protocols. Staff with classrooms being emptied at the Prior to the pandemic arriving in Spain, ceremony. The graduation was also live- actively monitors the children's social, beginning of the year to comply with Lambert was in the midst of assisting streamed for family members who could emotional, and academic needs – all while safety measures. Students have politely families from the Arleigh Burke-class not travel to Spain. a virus simmers in the background. adapted to staying in their assigned spots guided-missile destroyer USS Carney While the year has been unlike But Rota DGF Elementary School has and understand the need for a different (DDG 64) with their homeport shift to previous years, Lambert was thankful embraced our new normal. Face covering learning approach. Academic tasks are Naval Station Mayport, Florida as well to organize some events with the school are worn every day. Desks are far apart completed independently, instead of with as preparing families attached to USS prior to the state of alarm. Lambert and facing in one direction. Students a partner, or guided in small groups. The Roosevelt (DDG 80) for their move to assisted in coordinating one of the are lined-up in socially-distanced lines children seem to notice only the beauty Rota, Spain. Lambert's SLO segment for bigger community collaboration event, stretching down the halls. There is no of our airy classrooms. They are buoyed the virtual ICR that would be recorded for Read Across DoDEA, with Rota DGF sharing of supplies or snacks. And by a bit of normalcy in this extraordinary USS Roosevelt personnel would suddenly Elementary School. The annual event everything is assigned and scheduled time and appreciate being together. We be used for all incoming personnel to celebrates Dr. Seuss’s birthday and this – arrivals and dismissals, classroom are energized by teaching and learning at take their local ICR virtually due to the year, almost 60 volunteers from across seating, lunch periods and cafeteria school – regardless of the circumstance – pandemic. the installation volunteered to read to seating, recess, locker times, bathroom and are grateful for the possibility. When Spain entered its state of alarm students in preschool through fifth grade. breaks, and handwashing and sanitizing. Do the teachers think about COVID-19? mid-March, Lambert began publishing Another large event from early March Despite all of this, there is joy. So much Of course. Does it change whether being daily updates with information about was the health and wellness fair at Rota joy. It has filled DGF campus, thanks to back at school and teaching the children Rota DGF schools and resources for DGF Middle/High School. U.S. Naval the little people we serve. face-to-face is preferable and even families to keep children engaged and Hospital Health Promotion, Fleet & Family Students arrive each day excited to be restorative? No. We hone our teaching learning. The updates included virtual Support Center (FFSC), USO Rota, here, eager to see friends, and restless tools for our students and, with expertise field trips, study and virtual learning American Red Cross, Military Family Life to spend time in their classroom. Their and resilience, we carry out our mission. tips, arts and crafts, music, STEM, and Counselors, and Child & Youth Programs enthusiasm is contagious and reflected We are DoDEA teachers. It's what we do tutoring. He also promoted the over 120 offered information, games and activities in our teachers' conversations, who – even during a pandemic. virtual workshops for families sponsored to promote healthy lifestyle choices. are pleased to get to teach in-person by Navy School Liaison Office with topics Students were able to ask questions from financial aid and college prep to about internet safety, healthy treats, Rota DGF Elementary School and Rota DGF Middle/High School went remote numerous COVID-19 related sessions for fitness, and other topics. early childhood through teens. As the year comes to an end, Lambert beginning mid-March due to Spain’s State of Alarm decree till the end of the As Spain entered its de-escalation is now helping families of USS Arleigh 19-20 school year. For school year 20-21, the schools began remotely, Aug. phase and summer holiday approached, Burke prepare for their upcoming 24, 2020, until it was deemed safe to return to in-person instruction. Rota DGF Lambert scaled back his updates from homeport shift to Rota, and he is also daily to weekly then monthly. He also assisting the USS Ross families to schools reopened Oct. 5, 2020 to in-person instruction. able began providing one-on-one family prepare for their PCS to Norfolk, Virginia. Coastline | December 17, 2020 21 Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) Opportunity and resiliency often its de-escalation phase, the focus shifted accompany change – and 2020 dealt a to McCarthy’s first big challenge of hand full of change to Navy-Marine Corps reopening services. Relief Society (NMCRS) Rota and Naval “From the onset of my tenure here at Station (NAVSTA) Rota community. In NMCRS Rota, the primary objective was the middle of the State of Alarm, NMCRS reconstitution of all services - including Rota bid farewell to Courtney Snyder and both the Business Office and the Thrift Katie McCarthy stepped into the role of Shop,” said McCarthy. “By July, we were director. operating at our current schedule in “Stepping in as Director during a the office and making preparations for pandemic has been both challenging opening the Thrift Shop in August.” and advantageous,” explained McCarthy. NMCRS is volunteer-based and “Learning how to navigate the complexities thrives upon a dedicated volunteer team. of the role at times felt overwhelming with Despite a reduced volunteer force due to the state of affairs in the community. COVID-19, NMCRS Rota volunteers have At times it is difficult to feel ‘seen’ as served a combined 1,500 hours in the a new face in this new world full of office and the Thrift Shop since reopening teleconferencing meetings and limited in July. At the helm of the Thrift Shop interaction.” volunteer effort is Abigail Gross, who is Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) Rota Director, Katie McCarthy, right, presents Abigail This unusual time allowed McCarthy also NMCRS Rota 2020 Volunteer of the Gross, left, with the NMCRS Rota Volunteer of the Year for her work as lead of the Thrift Shop. to focus on the internal operations of Year and Thrift Shop Lead. “A lot of things intrigue me!” to undergo big changes this year due to NMCRS Rota and learn them firsthand. Gross says she enjoys volunteering Abigail has reformed and reinvigorated the pandemic. Financial assistance has From financial counseling, helping out for NMCRS because of “connection, the Thrift Shop and cultivated a dedicated evolved to include the COVID-19 Rapid at the Thrift Shop, discussing command engagement, and fun” which leads to a group of volunteers who have served Response Loan – an interest-free loan of readiness with the leadership, social sense of fulfillment. over 1,600 customers in the Thrift Shop up to $1,500 that minimizes face-to-face media, and more – the position requires “Volunteering at the Thrift Shop allows this year. client contact. The popular Budget for McCarthy to wear many hats but she me to meet new people and say hello “The Thrift Shop is a valuable Baby Workshop for expecting families relishes in the diversity. to old acquaintances, but also give me community resource,” said Gross. “It received an upgrade to two offerings While NMCRS doors were physically an escape to just be and sort/organize supports an amazing non-profit, it brings a month and registration extended to closed during the lockdown, emergency till my heart’s content,” said Gross who out the budget savvy, and the people who include civilian families. financial assistance continued and has enjoyed learning about retail, visual love to minimize their carbon footprints by McCarthy and her team are motivated NMCRS Rota provided over $90,000 in marketing, product placement, and the buying second hand.” by the NMCRS mission and the ability assistance this year. As Spain entered likes and dislikes of the Rota community. The Thrift Shop isn’t the only program to positively impact the lives of active duty service members, retirees, and Few Things Are Certain In Life: Death, Taxes and the Galley Feeding Sailors their family members each day. Whether it is providing high quality, low cost COVID-19 has provided the Naval being able to service the whole NAVSTA said Downs. items from the NMCRS Thrift Shop, Station (NAVSTA) Rota Gateway Galley Rota community to having to curtail In addition to providing takeaway teaching prospective parents financial staff with numerous challenges this year, patronage to active duty only. meals, the staff also prepared more than management through Budget for Baby, but her crew of Sailors and local nationals “Serving spouses, retirees and DoD 100 meals daily for Sailors stationed at or assisting with plane tickets for family have continued to come out on top. employees was our way of supporting NAVSTA Rota and tenant commands emergencies, NMCRS Rota continually “COVID presented us with numerous the community. It gave spouses a chance placed in a mandatory 14-day restriction gives back and supports the community challenges, but health and safety of galley to see how we feed service members of movement (ROM) period upon arrival which it serves. staff and patrons was always our priority,” and nostalgic memories for retirees,” to Spain. said Gateway Galley’s Leading Culinary said Downs. “They have been very If COVID-19 wasn’t a big enough Specialist Chief Culinary Specialist understanding and supportive of our challenge, the galley is also currently Terrell Downs. “We increased sanitation decision to limit services and are looking undergoing a $3.5 million scheduled NMCRS Rota By the Numbers protocols and switched from a dine-in forward to when we can allow them to renovation updating the galley’s fire $90,000 facility to takeout only to mitigate COVID frequent the facility again.” suppression system, plumbing, electrical, Financial Assistance to Community exposure.” The dine-in facility quickly became steam and ventilation infrastructure. In order to ensure increased health a takeout-only operation after the Navy “Our staff is maintaining quality service and safety precautions were met, the announced guidelines aimed at reducing and flexibility through the pandemic galley staff was quick to put in place potential exposure due to close physical and the renovation,” said Downs. “We 1,500 NMCRS Rota Volunteer Hours supplemental protective equipment and contact with others. understand why we are here and that patronage guidelines to limit exposure to “Becoming a takeaway only facility was we have a job to do. Nothing will stop us COVID-19. The galley installed additional a challenge for my predecessor because from completing our mission of feeding hand washing and sanitizing stations of the amount of consumables our team people.” 1,600 Thrift Store Customers throughout the facility and went from had to procure in a short amount of time,” 22 December 17, 2020 | Coastline NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella – Site Rota, Spain Naval Supply Systems Command efforts benefitted Sailors and Civilian (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Mariners of 22 ships spanning a total of Sigonella site in Rota, Spain is a uniquely 600 in-port days to afford them their well- strategic site within the 6th Fleet area of deserved port visit liberty. With the crew responsibility. NAVSUP FLCSI-Site Rota restricted to the pier, the Logistics Support had a challenging yet highly successful Representatives (LSR) at LSC facilitated year of supporting the fleet and multiple installation of Wi-Fi services on the piers branches of the Department of Defense enabling the crew to connect with their during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its loved ones at home. personnel of 177 military, civilians and "Providing bubble-to-bubble service host nation partners put in immense has played such a significant role in efforts throughout the year to ensure that providing a huge morale boost to the Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota operations crews of the ships that have made port and their assets continued to function here in Rota during this epidemic,” smoothly. said Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Postal Operations led the way with Ramiro Mendoza, logistics support NAVSTA Rota Post Office managing, representative. “We have coordinated routing, and processing 1.2 million pounds several events along with the help of the of mail in spite of consistent challenges base such as; Beer on the Pier, Beach in support of tenant commands, forward- Picnics, Golf Days, Pool Days, Movie deployed Naval forces ships, visiting Days, and NEX opening before and after assets, retired military members and scope of working hours to accommodate families. The post office served as the crew-only shopping". Commander, 6th Fleet distribution hub Redefining port visit liberty, the bubble- for incoming mail for further movement to-bubble (B2B) liberty concept was team at Site Rota working through of customers to include FDNF ships, to the area of responsibility and was the introduced. This entailed dividing groups the COVID-19 pandemic, was able to NAVSTA Rota tenant commands, Air logistical arm for outgoing mail movement of the crews into small sections and plan and coordinate 5 expeditionary Force, Army, and Marine Corps units. to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility allotting times for each of these sections forces deployments to Bahrain, Israel, They were critical in the storage and during the lockdown ensuring end-to-end to do different activities such as visiting the Ukraine and Italy moving Naval Mobile distribution of 2,281 gallons of hand Navy supply chain postal support. beach and golf course on base, as well Construction Battalion's Civil Engineering sanitizers and disinfectants in response "We’ve had great teamwork to be able as exclusive use of services throughout Support Equipment (CESE) with a total to the COVID-19 pandemic. The HAZMAT to work towards a common vision and the base like the Navy Exchange main weight of 316K pounds. Cargo was center processed over 21,000 issues in goal to improve ourselves and maintain store, mini mart, and laundry facilities. transported by ocean to Bahrain and support of customer requirements. The exceptional customer service to the Rota The LSC team, together with NAVSTA Israel and by commercial truck to Ukraine team also oversees the proper storage of community," said Logistics Specialist Rota Morale, Welfare and Recreation and Italy. over 7,500 line items stored in 59 satellite Seaman Mario Garcia Romero, postal (MWR), worked to provide opportunities During the pandemic, the Personal lockers base-wide ensuring NAVSTA clerk. for the visiting crews to participate in pier Property Shipping Office (PPSO) faced Rota is in accordance with environmental The NAVSUP FLCSI-Site Rota events such as movie nights, barbecues, many challenges such as Spain’s State regulations. Defense Fuel Support Point (DFSP) beer and ice cream on the pier, sports of Alarm and restriction of movement The Material Support Integration (MSI) remained a 24-hour operation throughout and games and even pier side lodging. (ROM), the Department of Defense’s division is the main source of repair parts the height of the COVID-19 lockdown in Equally notable is the LSR team’s efforts Permanent Change of Station (PCS) onboard NAVSTA Rota. MSI manages Spain in order to provide on-specification in the safe and timely delivery of over stop/delay, among others. Once able to 3,200 line items with an estimated value fuel to the ships and aircraft of the United 2,000 pallets of cargo and provisions resume operations, PPSO successfully of $1.8 million. Working hand-in-hand States, Spanish, and other NATO forces despite an order restricting crew onboard executed the first Forward-Deployed with Naval Facilities (NAVFAC) and Public operating in 5th and 6th Fleet areas of and social distancing measures in place. Naval Forces-Europe (FDNF-E) homeport Works, MSI purchased over $7.6 million responsibility. The team, comprised of This allowed the warfighters and assets of change between USS Carney and worth of parts in support of NAVFAC to U.S. military, U.S. civil servants, host the USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and USS Roosevelt. In an intense three- ensure uninterrupted support to NAVSTA nation partners, and contract personnel, Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) Strike week period, PPSO staff achieved Rota’s sustainment, transportation and utilized a minimal manning construct that Groups, USS Bataan (LHD 5) Amphibious the first FDNF-E transition back to the utilities. enabled the mission to be met, while at the Readiness Group, Submarine Group 8 continental United States by executing Another milestone for NAVSUP FLCSI- same time maintaining social distance. assets, our own forward-deployed ships 112 household goods (HHG) pack-outs, Site Rota is the absorption of the Defense The lockdown strictly limited the and Commander, Naval Surface Forces 85 unaccompanied baggage, and 29 Logistics Agency (DLA) distribution movement of personnel in Spain, Atlantic units to successfully continue alcohol shipments weighing 750,000 operations under the Navy Warehouse however, the needs of Rota’s customers on with their mission by having mission pounds. This was done while allowing Transfer (NWT) initiative. This past year did not see a downturn. Rota issued critical parts and sustainment items on the unit to maintain its full operational DLA was responsible for the receipt and just over 19 million gallons of petroleum hand. readiness and meeting all set timelines dispatch of well over 50,000 pieces of products consisting of JP-8, F-76, JP-5, “Every ship has come with their prior to departure. Moreover, PPSO cargo and parts in support of homeported gasoline and diesel from March 2020 to own unique situation as to how they effectively tackled a 60% increase in HHG ships and transiting units operating in June 2020. DFSP Rota also implemented are maintaining their bubble-to-bubble pack-out services totaling over 1.5 million the 6th Fleet area of responsibility. DLA a contactless refueling contingency and how they want us to respect their pounds, processed the importation and played a critical role in NAVSTA Rota’s operating plan that is in effect for the rules," said Logistics Specialist 2nd exportation of over 300 privately-owned uninterrupted operations during the duration of COVID-19. This policy mirrors Class Ramiro Mendoza, logistics support vehicles and performed 100% Quality COVID-19 pandemic by receiving and a replenishment at sea, utilizing heaving representative. "We however have yet to Control (QC) inspections and COVID-19 distributing 518 truckloads of material lines to pass necessary fittings, hoses and provide anything less than outstanding health protocol surveys on 1,000 HHG to all the tenant commands. With this documentation from the pier to moored support for the transiting ships making delivery and pack-out services as required development NAVSUP FLCSI-Site Rota vessels. This enables the vessels to be port here in Rota as well as increasing by new United States Transportation plays a vital role in providing end-to- refueled safely, allows the crews of the morale for their crews." Command and NAVSUP policies. end supply support within the Iberian moored vessels to maintain their bubble, NAVSUP FLCSI-Site Rota LSC also “During major operations there is Peninsula. and eliminates close personal contact. coordinated movement of aircrafts during always an emphasis on communications “Our team, consisting of Military, GS COVID-19 has brought unique challenges intermodal evolutions in support of and planning,” said Antonio Polo Sanchez, civilians, contractors, and host nation to normal day to day refueling operations, United States Army Combat Aviation Personal Property Transportation Officer. personnel at Fleet Logistics Center Site but the team at Rota has adapted quickly Brigades (CABs), United States Marine “And, what better example to prove it than Rota are true professionals,” said Cmdr. in order to overcome them and support Corps (USMC) Aviation Squadrons and the successful execution of the Carney Bert Phillips, NAVSUP FLCSI-Site Rota the mission. United States Air Force (USAF) Special homeport change. Our Personal Property director. “The effort and passion that Going above and beyond the call of Operations Command. Through a joint Team worked along Carney's leadership they put into meeting the requirements, duty by formulating innovative ways to effort with NAVSTA Rota Air Operations, to clear the hurdles of the host nation's is unmatched. They did not miss a beat counter logistical challenges brought Port Operations, Naval Security Forces restrictions imposed due to the pandemic throughout the entire pandemic and about by the pandemic, the fleet support and Spanish Security Forces, LSC resulting in the crew's successful HHG always found ways to not only meet team at Logistics Support Center facilitated the mishap-free movement of pack-out.” mission but thrive while developing new (LSC) was instrumental in elevating the 30 aircraft in the past year enabling the The Site-Rota Hazardous Material and innovative policies, processes, and morale of ships’ crews and their ability units a seamless transition to and from (HAZMAT) Center manages an inventory procedures to ensure the safety of all of to continue on with their mission. Their theater. In addition, the transportation of $2.5 million and serves a wide-array our customers.” Coastline | December 17, 2020 23

U. S. Naval Hospital Rota Birth Announcements Jude G. Van Nielen born December 8, 2020 to Dominic and Brittany Van Nielen Weighing 6 lbs 12.6 oz

Zoey I. Liu born December 13, 2020 to Garin and Daysi Liu Weighing 6 lbs 14.8 oz 24 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Naval Mobile Construction Battalions Provide Vital Support to NAVSTA Rota Operations The year 2020, unsurprisingly, proved Spain. A group of Seabees assigned to have many unique challenges for the to NMCB-1 constructed, powered, and Seabees of Naval Mobile Construction maintained a 24-hour medical pre- Battalions (NMCBs) 1 and 133. Yet, screening tent to vet patients at the with characteristic “Can Do” attitude, the U.S. Naval Hospital Rota hospital for Seabees overcame and provided vital COVID-19. The Seabees also supported support to Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota local medical staff and patients by printing operations. The Seabees of NMCB-1 ear guards, which provide relief from over- and NMCB-133 deployed from Gulfport, the-ear mask wear, using the command’s Mississippi to Rota, Spain to operate on additive manufacturing (3D) printer. In base and at remote locations throughout addition to the hospital, the Seabees Europe and Africa for project builds, assisted NAVSTA Rota’s Public Works exercise participation, and logistics Department, together fabricating 25 operations in support of Fleet priorities. Plexiglas windows and three operation The Seabees started the year by boxes that were then installed in essential helping aid the coronavirus fight in Rota, locations throughout the base. The installation of these windows and boxes helped prevent the spread of the virus while allowing for the safe continued operation of essential services, such as the Navy Exchange and Commissary. Not only did the Seabees help with coastline; and the new military working Spain, a win for multinational cooperation COVID-19 mitigation measures, they dog kennel, which will provide improved that will result in enhanced security, quickly adapted to the newly established training abilities and a better quality of life readiness, and combat capability, despite COVID-19 restrictions. Holding paramount for the military working dogs. the pandemic. the safety of both service members and While onboard NAVSTA Rota, the As we close the year and another the public, essential construction projects Seabees also contributed to a variety of key chapter in the long-standing history of the and improvements continued around the fleet training exercises. Sailors assigned “Bees in Rota,” we find ourselves grateful base, utilizing additional PPE such as to NMCB-133 simulated the operation of for the continued partnership between the masks when physical distancing was not an evacuation control center. They also Naval Mobile Construction Battalions, possible. The Seabees made significant participated in Operation Lisa Azul, a NAVSTA Rota, and the vibrant host city progress on several critical construction joint training conducted with the Coastal of Rota, Spain. Through this continued projects: the installation of new street Riverine Squadron, the U.S. Marines of fruitful collaboration, we celebrate the lamps along Enriquez Street to improve the Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team accomplishments of this year, confident traffic and pedestrian safety; the cliffline Company, and the Spanish marines. in our ability to meet the challenges of erosion repair project, a multi-year project The exercise promoted partnership and tomorrow, and celebrate our shared aimed at strengthening the integrity of maritime security between the U.S. and success for many years to come. nearly a kilometer of NAVSTA Rota’s ---OTOÑO-DUNAS-Prensa-CoastLine.pdf 1 17/09/2020 12:25:56

        

Autumn Coastline | December 17, 2020 25 Naval Station Rota NAVFAC / Public Works Department The Public Works Department (PWD) efforts of the team contributed to the USS Roosevelt’s arrival, USS Porter’s renovation of Building 575 to include an at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain, fabrication of 25 Plexiglas windows and homecoming, an ammunition swapping operations control center, providing space provides a full range of Naval Facilities three operation boxes that were installed operation at USS Carney, and many for DESRON 60. This is a previously Engineering Systems Command in essential locations within the base others. The crane crew also conducted abandoned admin-only building that (NAVFAC) facility and environmental including the medical center, commissary, many of the in-house work, including the the public works FEAD division was products and services to the installation mini NEX, gas station, security office, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning able to convert into a suitable space to include quality life-cycle facilities legal office, and Personnel Support replacement at BLDG 59A, one of PWD for the command, and is equipped management, utilities, transportation, and Detachment (PSD). The installation of Rota’s buildings. with conference/video teleconferencing environmental services to support mission these windows and boxes helped prevent The Seabees continued supporting room, lounge and break area, among requirements of the Commander, Naval the spread of the COVID-19 virus and still the installation mission by conducting other amenities as well as provisions Activities Spain and other supported contribute to safety among all military and construction projects within NAVSTA to support additional rotational and commands. Working closely with the civilian personnel aboard NAVSTA Rota. Rota. During the month of September, transient personnel. The FEAD team commanding officer, regional engineer, The Public Works Rota Crane Team several Seabees were involved in the continued to maintain 26 projects in the and supported commanders, they comprised of Seabees, U.S. civilians, fencing project that would contribute installation valuing $170 million, including develop, coordinate, and prioritize work and local nationals provided crane, shore to increased security capabilities for the Rota Navy Lodge expansion, the execution and installation requirements. power, water, waste, and contractor installation weapon and ordinance new communications center for Naval During 2020, throughout all the support for 245 ship movements for storage. Also, a Seabee team conducted Computer and Telecommunications Area challenges brought in by the COVID-19 Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 60 work at the NAVSTA Rota Fire Department Master Station Pacific, the new Morale pandemic, their resolve to support the guided-missile destroyers as well as Emergency Command Center (ECC) Welfare and Recreation center, and many mission was no different than prior years. Commander, Naval Surface Forces on Pier 1. This construction project other essential projects. During the month of April, Public Atlantic, Submarine Force Atlantic, enabled the fire department to continue NAVFAC and PWD are valued for Works Rota Seabees and local national and Military Sealift Command assets, its essential mission in one of the critical delivering mission capability whenever employees conducted operations in including ammo handling operations locations on base. and wherever required. And if this year support of COVID-19 responses and relief and crane lifts even during the height of The Facilities Engineering & Acquisition has proven anything, it’s that it takes more efforts on NAVSTA Rota. The combined the COVID-19 pandemic. This included Division (FEAD) of PWD has completed than a global pandemic to stop this team. 26 December 17, 2020 | Coastline 725th Air Mobility Squadron (AMS) The 725th Air Mobility Squadron (AMS) combatant commanders have not seen is comprised of 185 Airmen, supports an interruption in service.” Air Mobility Command (AMC) cargo and One of the primary ways the squadron passenger transport to project power responded to the COVID challenge from the continental United States to this year was to quickly master aircraft Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The disinfection procedures for when a 725th AMS provides mission assurance passenger exhibited COVID-like for supported commanders and puts the symptoms during transit. “rapid” in Rapid Global Mobility. They are “The learning process for myself and charged to conquer any challenge head- my teammates is ongoing every day. on through the spirit of the 725th AMS Each day we learn more and implement motto, “By the Horns!”. new processes to effectively disinfect The team at the 725th AMS adapted aircraft and mitigate the spread of this to the evolving challenges presented deadly virus” said Tech. Sgt. Levi B. by COVID-19 this year by moving to Ledbetter. “This is a team effort! Cross- minimum manning, partitioning shift work, telling information is key amongst us as and implementing physical distancing an Air Force to move forward to a new while continuing to respond to the needs normal.” screening requirements by providing to help keep Airmen informed and answer of the warfighter. The team procured disinfectant, taught temperature screenings and medical questions for Airmen and spouses. “Even though we knew things were courses on proper procedures, and questionnaires. Facebook wasn’t the only virtual going to be a bit different and tougher even constructed a training video that Health protection conditions and tool the squadron utilized during the than they have been in the past, we was disseminated across the AMC. If a cessation of normal off-base lodging and pandemic. The team also set up a Zoom maintained an optimistic mindset,” said disinfection is required, each member services led to additional complications, Government account for the squadron Lt. Col. Ryan Herman, commander wears a protective equipment, such as such as cases where there weren’t to conduct Commander’s Calls and to 725th Air Mobility Squadron. “We’ve goggles, face shields, appropriate face enough rooms to service competing continue their routine outreach virtually. anticipated and responded to challenges masks, long-sleeved waterproof aprons, requirements at Rota. To solve these the In addition to staying connected virtually, in front of us, and because of that our rubber gloves and boots, and shoe Airmen of the 725th AMS stepped up in the squadron’s first sergeant, Master coverings. They then proceed to disinfect a big way, by developing a new system Sgt. Gina Escanes, and the squadron’s the plane by applying the appropriate to identify missions in real time. They Key Spouses, set up many programs disinfectant and allowing it to penetrate created a sophisticated, color-coded that allowed Airmen and their families and kill any pathogens. In addition to tracking system that stretches across opportunities to stay engaged, such as disinfecting surfaces, the team also three widescreen monitors and shows real an Easter egg pick-up, Halloween goodie operates the air recirculation system for time status of both missions and rooms bag pick-up, and many squadron contests approximately three hours to cleanse in an efficient and visually appealing way. to help boost morale. trapped aircraft air. The entire process “The spreadsheet allows us to track "During these hard and isolating times, lasts around four and a half hours, and in real time the 33 rooms we regularly it is important to provide support and this is just the start of what they are doing reserve for aircrews,” said Master Sgt. outlets to our most valuable assets: our to help in the fight against COVID-19. Robert Rein. “Additionally, we coordinate Airmen,” said Master Sgt. Gina Escanes. The 725th AMS also operates a with NGIS for any additional rooms which “Providing different virtual events keeps Maintenance Operations Center and Air may be available. This allows us to liaise our Airmen engaged and increases Mobility Control Center, which serves as with the 618th Air Operations Center morale in times of uncertainty." a command, control and communications to maximize the amount of crews and While COVID-19 has created more node to service aircraft and aircrews. missions that can remain overnight at challenges than normal, it hasn’t impacted Normally, the team performs duties only NAVSTA Rota for the next 72 hours.” the 725th AMS mission, and they continue for the AMC crews, however during the In addition to making sure their to overcome every challenge by taking it COVID-19 operations, team members missions continue to move, the 725th “By the Horns.” stepped up to assist the Navy with AMS also made sure to maintain their “We and our Navy partners have resiliency. To make sure Airmen could conquered so many challenges, but stay connected even when they couldn’t often it doesn’t ripple up even to my level The 521st Air Mobility Operations tactics, techniques and procedures. physically connect, the squadron created because our Airmen solve the problems Group’s (AMOG) span of control The team also supported the a private Facebook group which enabled at theirs” said Herman. “That all comes reaches from Rota, Spain all the way development of new equipment during members to interact and check on each from the leaders in the squadron from to Bagram, Afghanistan, including four this time to enable the safe movement other virtually. Herman, began conducting the bottom on up, and I couldn’t be more squadrons and seven detachments/ of personnel and cargo. One example “Facebook live” town halls once a week proud.” operating locations. Approximately of this being the negatively pressurized 750 Airmen provide maintenance, conex (NPC), which was rapidly aerial support, and command and developed to fit inside both the C-5 control and operational support for Super Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster approximately 6,00 air mobility sorties III. The NPC enable safe transport for a year to deploy and sustain the Joint up to 28 patients, as well as teams Force in Africa, Europe, and Asia. of medical professionals to medical Due to the nature of rapid global facilities around the globe. mobility operations, the COVID-19 The Airmen of the AMOG wasted pandemic significantly increased risk no time in putting this to use, across the air mobility enterprise and partnering with other units to field added layers of complexity to traveling and train on this capability during the internationally, which increased the summer to accelerate the movement strain on our global freedom of of personnel in need of urgent medical movement. care while mitigating exposure. Despite a reduction in overall travel, While the COVID-19 pandemic the 521st AMOG’s mission to support has challenged the 521st AMOG in OCONUS (outside continental United many ways this year, their ingenuity, States) and deployed joint teams innovation, and resourcefulness never ceased. The Airmen there has ensured the air mobility mission have continuously adapted to the continues to support deterrence, logistics challenges brought on by this assurance, competition and pandemic and the varied host nations’ contingency operations. responses to it by adopting new 521st Air Mobility Operations Group (AMOG)521st Coastline | December 17, 2020 27

Celestino Mutis similar to the archaic barracks from Botanic Park the east which were owned by the old Muslim market gardeners. It is situated near the coastline and it is a place created to relax, enjoy and study the life it contains. In this Botanic Park, you can find a small Rota´s Rail Trail representation of the vegetation on the This rail trail is a bridleway, used for planet and, especially, a representation walking, cycling and sometimes horse of the autochthonous flora. Some riding. It covers 5 miles (8 kilometers) plants such as the Canary Islands of disused railway track between El Dragon Tree and the Moroccan Atlas Puerto de Santa María and Sanlúcar Cedar have adapted to our dry, sunny de Barrameda, a stretch which passes Mediterranean climate. In this natural through the city limits of Rota. area you can also observe and learn about the fauna which live here such as birds, insects and reptiles. The chameleon is the most emblematic animal in the area.

Mayetería If we talk about agriculture in Rota, we talk about mayetería. In Rota, people use the word Mayetería to refer to agriculture. The mayetos were the local farmers who worked in the fields. They have always lived devoted exclusively to grow the best fruits and vegetables which they collected with great effort in May. The origin of the house where the mayetos lived is

Natural Beaches backed by vast pinewoods. Urban Beaches residential area of Costa Ballena. Rota has also really beautiful If you are looking for peace and The old city of Rota is These beaches boast an and exotic beaches bathed by the quiet, these virgin beaches are the surrounded by different beaches attractive promenade which covers Atlantic Ocean such as Puntalillo, best suited to your needs. The beauty such as Galeones, Rompidillo the whole length of the beach, Corrales, Punta Candor and Pegina. of their surroundings and the crystal and La Costilla. There is also a perfect to walk, relax and see the They are located in a wild and clear waters make this spot an ideal beach called La Ballena which is wonderful sunset. natural environment and they are place to enjoy the Costa de la Luz. located next to the Golf Court in the

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Welcome to Rota Tourism Office - Outside Rota gate (by the taxi stand) - Tel: 956 846 521 Coastline | December 17, 2020 29 Navy Environmental & Preventive Medicine Unit (NEPMU) 7 COVID-19 has upturned all of our lives telephonic wellness checks. In addition, medical personnel from this past year, and Navy Environmental the preventive medicine technicians the very beginning. In & Preventive Medicine Unit Seven conducted multiple health inspections March, the team began (NEPMU-7) has been at the center of of on-base facilities, ensuring proper analyzing the data this viral hurricane since the beginning. compliance with applicable health of cases in Germany Starting in January, the team has directives and adherence to COVID-19 and providing more worked to minimize and control the requirements. They also provided initial clarity on the severity virus’s spread to military members in setup assistance and ongoing technical of symptoms active- conjunction with the Navy and Marine advice to NMRTC Rota’s laboratory for duty service members Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC), the new diagnostic equipment utilized to might experience, U.S. European Command, U.S. Africa identify cases of COVID-19. informing tri-service Command, and U.S. Central Command. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the team medical personnel Their team consists of 20 personnel who at NEPMU-7 could not physically inspect worldwide. They were all had to adjust their tactics to complete Department of Defense (DoD) naval also responsible for standard mission essential tasks such assets to provide them with a current Ship conducting contact as: infectious disease tracking, ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate tracing training for over sanitation inspections and entomology (SSCEC), a document certifying that the 200 joint personnel in safety interacting with the suspected vector control to name a few. ship is free of animal vectors, potential March with an additional 3,600 trained patients. Then the team developed a “One of our primary missions is to disease vectors, or ill humans. Anticipating since then via the online video created local COVID-19 response standard respond to outbreaks,” said Cmdr. Tammy this requirement, the threat assessment from their training. operating procedure. Their finding was Servies, officer-in-charge of NEPMU-7. and mission support departments, in close After receiving a call for assistance, then presented in an epidemiological “The team was aware of the critical role collaboration with the Centers for Disease NEPMU-7 rapidly deployed its members analysis and after-action report, which they would play in the pandemic and they Control and Prevention and NMCPHC, as a small Mobile Outbreak Response will be published in a peer-reviewed stepped up. I feel extraordinarily lucky to pioneered the virtual SSCEC inspection, Unit to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti within publication. work with every member of this resilient, enabling NEPMU-7 personnel to conduct 48 hours to provide technical oversight “We integrated with the teams on dedicated team of professionals every 13 of the 25 inspections virtually. This and outbreak investigation expertise in the ground to make comprehensive day.” newly developed capability enabled U.S. support of the COVID-19 outbreak. Lt. recommendations that resulted in Even with restrictions in place, Navy ships to meet their global mission Cmdr. Eric Larsen, the lead on the unit, resolution of the outbreak and changes NEPMU-7 personnel supported 33 units taskings despite the travel and other conducted an epidemiological study to theater policy,” said Larsen. “It was a with 51 tri-service missions totaling 301 restrictions caused by the unprecedented and outbreak investigation, collecting privilege to support our frontline warfighters days. Demonstrating their commitment to global pandemic. data on routes of disease transmission, and forward deployed personnel during “One Navy Medicine,” NEPMU-7 provided NEPMU-7’s threat assessment team incubation time frames, and disease these challenging times." immediate assistance to NMRTC Rota is responsible for tracking communicable severity. Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Even though COVID-19 has presented (formerly U.S. Naval Hospital Rota) disease and responding to outbreaks, Torre Mays conducted door-to-door significant challenges for the world, Team to augment its COVID-19 response either in person or through remote quarantine checks and contact tracing Rota has stepped up to ensure we ride posture. In fiscal year 2020, NEPMU-7’s guidance to field medical personnel. to stop COVID-19 transmission and this viral storm out together and fulfill the eight preventive medicine technicians The team followed the COVID-19 every provide training and respiratory fit testing missions. The menace still endures, so assisted NMRTC Rota with 156 days of step of the way this year, assisting the to several expeditionary medical facility everyone must work together to be safe sustained support, conducting numerous combatant commanders and theater (EMF) staff members to ensure their and minimize the spread of the virus.

Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic Detachment Rota Spain Naval Computer and accomplish our tasks," said Information Telecommunications Area Master Station Specialist Technician 1st Class Jovan Atlantic Detachment Rota Spain (NCTAMS Hall, Department Leading Petty Officer. LANT DET ROTA) is comprised of over "Communication is critical to accomplish 70 active duty, civilian, and local national any mission, and I believe that we are personnel who are dedicated to providing blessed with a great team to carry out the resilient and outstanding information support to our areas of responsibilities technology (IT) services. They provide effortlessly." communication services and technical The Base Communications Office support to Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, (BCO) provides day-to-day operational its tenant commands, forward-deployed support and management and technical Naval forces (FDNF), homeported ships, support concerning Data Switch Networks and visiting units afloat throughout the (DSN), phone lines, and voicemail. Iberian Peninsula. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, our This year NCTAMS's accomplishments local technicians went to great lengths include providing phone and internet to ensure they complied with all social protocol (IP) services to support distancing rules while still conducting homeported and transient vessels, maintenance on equipment and resolving resolving 467 ONE-Net incidents, customer issues. 170 Request for Changes (RFC), and The Financial department developed 33 circuit outages. Additionally, they telework schedules to maximize workers' deployed 83 telework capable laptops effectiveness and maintain good health technology working group (CITWG). personnel to ensure all communication- across five commands, ensuring zero and safety. The staff upgraded their This year the team conducted three related mission requirements are fulfilled mission downtime during the COVID-19 personal laptops with smart card terminals AFN Radio interviews and utilized email to the highest standards possible," said crisis. enabling access to official work email. correspondence to spread the message Information Specialist Technician 2nd "The restraints of COVID-19 pandemic "We had a lot of support in this matter, "Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart." The Class Alvin Farmer, Defense Information have allowed us to step back and analyze and we want to thank the IT team for CITWG was conducted via Microsoft Systems Agency Node Site Coordinator. the best ways to safely and efficiently everything they did to allow us to continue Teams with 49 military and civilian During the fiscal year, seven Sailors doing our job," said Luis Blanco, lead personnel representing 16 departments advanced to the next paygrade, 12 financial technician. “We all had to put and tenant commands. have earned the enlisted information forth a great amount of effort for this year." Furthermore, the Defense Information warfare specialist pin, eight local national The Information Assurance (IA) Systems Agency (DISA) node site employees were promoted to EA6, and 19 department was challenged creatively coordinators worked around the clock to received appreciation awards. NCTAMS in October 2020 to deliver the annual process administrative responsibilities, Sailors' dedication also reflects outside National Cyber Security Awareness coordinate with DISA contractors, and of the workplace in their pursuit of higher Month (NCSAM) program and hold the assist the local network service center learning. Five collegiate degrees and quarterly communications information with trouble-shooting. over 100 credit hours of higher education "We utilize the unique strengths of all were earned. 30 December 17, 2020 | Coastline Renault Megane 2007, good shape, 3,800 euros, ITV good, European specs, call 653780296 Honda Accord station wagon 2004, 3,950 euros, ITV good, European specs, tel. 653780296 Citroen C5, mint, 2007, 3,800 euros, ITV good, European specs, 653780296 Land Rover Free Lander, 2001, Automatic, good shape, ITV good, European specs, 3,650 euros, tel. 653780296 Volvo XC 90, Automatic, 4x4, ITV good, European specs, 2006, 5,950 euros, call 653780296

To place a classified ad, submit information by the MONDAY prior to the desired publication date. Ads will run for one RENTALS edition only. FreeEl ads are available to TEIMercado cardholders for non-commercial goods. Email submissions to coastline@ For rent beautiful apartment in the most uniquely designed house in Rota. Beachfront eu.navy.mil. Non-TEI cardholders and/or ads of commercial nature (real estate, for-profit business) require payment with unrestricted view over the bay to Cadiz, 5 mins. from the base. 3 bedrooms, open and must be submitted to [email protected]. fire, air-conditioning. Fully furnished. €1.350 pm. No realtor fees. Call owner 678 205 209. CARS FOR SALE Beautiful 2 bedroom Rota apartment with beach views for rent, yard, Community pool, 1,450 euros / month negotiable, call Karen tel 607 564 132 2011 Toyota Verso, great family vehicle, Rota Beach front apartment on c. Virgen Del Mar, 2 rooms, 1 full bathroom, living excellent condition, 167k kms, 6sp 2.0 diesel, room, kitchen, entryway, 1300€ / month (water included) please call Mila at 697 130 7passenger, ITV valid until Aug 2021, $7500 / € 921 BEAUTIFUL SEA-VIEW VILLA IN CHIPIONA. 1,450€/M NEGOCIABLE. LISTING 6,800. Call David at 686.732.389 if interested. NUMBER 127072. 3 bedrooms & 3 bathrooms. 1200m2 plot. 160m2 house. 250m to 2002 Volvo S-40 Sedan, 2.0T, 5 speed manual, the beach. Safe, quiet and private. Automatic gate and outside lights. Double-glassing. Black 4 Door sedan, ~150 km, AC, power Fireplace. Aircon./heating. Ceiling fans. Mosquito nets. Storage. Diner attached to kitchen. windows and locks, Looks decent and has been Roof-terrace with sea-view. English-speaking landlord. Available 1st Nov. CELL 667586839. to Madrid, Portugal, Granada, and Cordoba PICTURES WWW.SWEETHOMESPAIN.ES . REF. 70037. NO CHARGES FOR TENANT AS DIRECT FROM OWNER!!! Cordoba and back last week headed to Seville and Malaga this week. Timing belt was changed IAW maintenance schedule recently, new front brakes and recent oil change. NOW HIRING The ITV is good until July. Asking $2500 or €2100 Euro. Call or text 608397674. HRO (www.usajobs.gov) 2002 Opel Astra, runs great, ITV just passed, European Customer service 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 727-1643 for more info specs, A/C, radio, electric windows, 1,650€, call 653780296 2012 BMW 114I in great condition. White 5-door Manual transmission with Morale, Welfare & Recreation (MWR) less than 55,000 kilometers. Enjoy driving in style! European www.navymwrrota.com/jobs specs, ITV valid until SEP18, €12,990. Call or text 642-339-361

Mercedes E200 Automatic CDI Avangarde full Equipment. 80.000Km Europeans Specs, NEX ITV goods, leather seats. Sale 21.500€ Rent 80€/day 800€/month.Tel: 689708953 Come work for us! Search for jobs, apply online or just create a profile for future job Megane Renault Scenic 2005, AUTOMATIC, new timing belt and openings all at the click of a button! Visit http://www.NavyExchange.jobs distribution, 59,000 miles, ITV good, European specs, 3,400€, tel 653780296 Opel Corsa, Selective 1.3 CD ti eco FLEX, diesel, 2012. EU Specs. In mint For Spanish (LN) job announcements visit the Human Resources tab at condition. ITV good until 2021. 52500 KM. Asking 6300 Euros OBO. Phone 691165592 cnic.navy.mil/rota Kia Sportage 2010, low mileage (39,000 miles), ITV good, European specs, 4,950€, tel 653780296Nissan Terrano II, 4x4, 7 seater, ITV good, European specs, 5,950€, tel 653780296 Coastline | December 17, 2020 31 32 December 17, 2020 | Coastline

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