Gazette in the Past, IA Deployment Expect and How to Prepare - Go Commanding Officer

Vol. 64 No. 47 Friday, Dec.7, 2007

Electric Light Parade, Hollywood style Story by MC1 Robert Lamb, NAVSTA Public Affairs Saturday night, a feeling of Christmas The parade featured 38 different floats up on the street before”, said GM2 Craig was in the air, along with candies, air-horns this year. Everything from trucks, cars, Brown. “Candy was flying and being and sirens that all combined to produce the boats, emergency vehicles and military tossed from one float to the next”, he added. annual Guantanamo Bay Electric Light Pa- transportation vehicles were decked out Johnny Grant, the honorary Hollywood rade. with lights and signs wishing everyone a Mayor, and Stefanie Powers were the The Morale, Welfare and Recreation happy holiday season. Young cheerlead- Grand Marshals for this year’s parade. sponsored parade went off without a hitch ers, servicemembers and civilians waved Powers was sitting up on the back seat on Saturday, Dec. 1. If you weren’t on to the crowds and randomly threw candy and Grant sitting in the front passenger seat, watch or standing along Sherman Avenue to children standing on the sides of the road. as Charity Sandstrom drove her red Mus- between SCSI and the Downtown Ly- "The parade was gnarly", said Katie tang convertible along the parade route to ceum, then you were probably sitting Basel, who marched in parade as part of the Downtown Lyceum. Not far behind aboard a parade float tossing out candy or the Sea Cadet. "When we stopped at the were Victoria’s Secret super models Marisa t-shirts. This was one of the biggest Elec- Downtown Lyceum, was the best part of Miller, Selita Ebanks and Adriana Lima, es- tric Light Parades that people had seen in the parade, because we were at the begin- corted by CMDCM Brad Levault, in his recent memory. ning of it all so it gave us a chance to see all 1976 Eldorado Cadillac. Also participating “It was great,” said ND1(DSW) Dean the floats that were behind us." in this years parade was Kate Linder, an Paraskeva. “It looked like everyone was “I’ve been here for almost three years really having lots of fun.” and I have never seen so many people lined See Parade, page 6 2 Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 Fleet Forces Admiral discusses IAs Story by MC1(SW) Stefanie Holzeisen-Mullen, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Atlantic

Recently Adm. Jonathan W. ”This [IA assignments] is not Greenert, Commander, U.S. Fleet a short-term process,” said Forces Command, traveled to the Greenert. “We have 10,000 now Navy Individual Augmentee and are training to turn over that Combat Training Unit in Fort amount.” Jackson, S.C., to get a firsthand In October, 2006 the United look at the training facility and States Joint Forces Command speak to Sailors preparing for an assumed responsibility of the IA on educating the Navy family on proactive family support to the IA assignment. And that visit training program at Fort Jackson this new type of deployment by families of IAs, ad-hoc individuals inspired a podcast to share what and has worked in concert with making sure they have access to and provisional units deploying he learned. the Army to ensure the best current information and the for non-traditional expeditionary ”That was a great trip ... it possible training program is in resources to ensure success on missions in support of the global totally changed my impression place to prepare Sailors for the home front. war on terrorism. and my ideas on our individual success in their IA ”We are doing a lot but we need ECRC is designed to be a augmentee program,” said assignment.The course was to get better at what we’re center for IAs and their families Greenert, noting specifically the based on theater requirements for doing.” Greenert admitted. “The to lean on for resources, support intensity of the skills being taught all service members. The Navy is good at caring for a unit and guidance. The IA handbook, and the confidence and character program is designed to teach or family of a unit when that unit available on the ECRC Web site, of the Sailors he met. essential skills to individuals deploys. But what we’re talking is one publication Greenert said With more than 10,000 IAs assigned to Army units. The about now are individuals within many of those he spoke with at serving in the U.S. Central course includes training in basic a unit and we need to take that Fort Jackson pointed to Command area of responsibility, marksmanship, combat first aid, same approach. The Navy repeatedlyAdm. William as a Jameskey reason Crowe why Jr. including active-duty and reserve land navigation, urban operations ombudsman program is they felt prepared. components, Greenert was quick and an introduction to Army strengthened and ready to deal Fleet and family support to note that this type of duty is culture. Perhaps most important with this need.” centers, Navy Personnel quickly becoming the norm for is training in convoy and counter- Greenert pointed to one Sailor Command and other Navy career Sailors and that the Navy improvised explosive device he met while at Fort Jackson commands and organizations are is working overtime to ensure the operations. who praised the dedicationPresident andof the continuallyUnited States developing George W.and Bush fine- necessary training and support “I feel very good about the tenacity of his unit’s ombudsman, tuning the network of resources systems are in place. The people who are there,” said crediting them with preparing him to get the knowledge to those evolution of IA training is part of Greenert. “They are very for deployment in just one week who need it. the Navy’s shift to a more confident when they are done and versus the traditional four to five Quick to laud the volume of expeditionary force with the they have good reason to be. I weeks. assistance and wealth of majority receiving orders to duty feel very good about the training.” ”It’s this caring for the knowledge available to better in Iraq and Afghanistan. Greenert has also set his sights individual,” Greenert added. “The prepare a Sailor to serve in an IA unit looking out for the individual. assignment, Greenert had a Guantanamo Bay That’s the mindset we have to simple suggestion for those who Vol. 64 No. 47 have.” really want to know what to Gazette In the past, IA deployment expect and how to prepare - go Commanding Officer...... Capt. Mark M. Leary information was often scattered straight to the source. Executive Officer...... Cmdr. Sylvester Moore Command Master Chief...... CMDCM(SW/AW) Keith Carlson and difficult to find. Recognizing ”Talk to somebody who has Public Affairs Officer...... Bruce Lloyd this, the Navy stood up the been there. You’ll get the insight, Mass Communication Specialist/LPO...... MC1 Robert lamb Mass Communication Specialist/Editor...... MC2 Kimberly Williams Expeditionary Combat Readiness you’ll help get rid of some of the Command (ECRC) in October anxieties that build up. Have faith The Guantanamo Bay Gazette is an authorized publication for members of the military services and their families stationed at U.S. Naval Station 2006. ECRC is designed to that this training process will Guantanamo Bay. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views provide oversight and ensure prepare you well.” of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Navy, and do not imply endorsement thereof. The editorial content is prepared, effective processing, equipping, To listen to the podcast edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office of U.S. Naval Station training, certification and interview with Greenert on the Guantanamo Bay. Questions or comments can be directed to the PAO. The Gazette staff can be reached by phone at ext. 4502; fax 4819; by email at deployment. In addition to getting Navy’s IA training program log [email protected]. Get the Gazette online at www.cnic.navy.mil/ Sailors prepared, ECRC provides on to www.cffc.navy.mil . guantanamo reach-back, redeployment and Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 3

Religious Services/ GTMO aerographer’s Base Chapel Catholic Daily Catholic Mass Mon. - Fri. 5:30 p.m. (Main Chapel) Vigil Mass, Sat. 5 p.m. (Main mates at your service Chapel) Sun. Mass, 7:30 a.m. (JTF-Troopers Chapel) Team ensures flights take off in favorable weather conditions Sun. 9 a.m. Mass (Main Chapel) Protestant (GTMO Chapel) Sat. 11 a.m. Seventh Day Adventist Story by MC2 Kim Williams, NAVSTA Public Affairs Service (Room B) Sun. 7 p.m. Filipino Christian Fellowship (Room A) There’s an exact science to 8 a.m. Pentecostal Gospel Temple (Room D) analyzing the weather that in- 9 a.m. LDS Service (Room A) volves a lot more than just 10 a.m. Liturgical Service (Room B) 11 a.m. General Prot. Service waiting for a groundhog to see 11 a.m. United Jamaican its shadow. Fellowship (Bldg 1036) 1 p.m. Gospel Service A group of well-trained and 7 p.m. Iglesia Ni Cristo (Fellowship highly qualified Sailors sta- Hall) Friday Religious Services tioned at Naval Atlantic Meteo- 1:15 p.m. Islamic Service (Room C) rology and Oceanography De- 7 p.m. Jewish Service (FMI call tachment Guantanamo Bay 2628) (NAVLANTMETOCDET) Religious Services/ have the unique mission of us- JTF Troopers Chapel ing the meteorological and Catholic Services Wed. 11 a.m. Spanish Mass (New) oceanographic information Sat. 6:30 p.m. Vigil Mass (PPI they collect to ensure Navy air- Chapel) Sun. 7:30 a.m. Sunday Mass (New) craft and personnel operate in Protestant (GTMO Chapel) safe weather conditions. Sat. 11 a.m. Seventh Day Adventist Service (Room B) Aerographer’s Mates (AG), the Sun. 5:30 Filipino Christian Navy’s weather team, play a Fellowship (Room A) 8 a.m. Pentecostal Gospel Temple critical role in the Navy’s over- (Room D) all mission. 9 a.m. LDS Service (Room A) 10 a.m. Liturgical Service (Room B0 A team of five AGs collect 11 a.m. General Prot. Service weather data from radars, ob- 11 a.m. United Jamaican Fellowship (Bldg 1036) serving, recording and plotting 1 p.m. Gospel service meteorological information and 8 p.m. Iglesia Ni Cristo (Room B) operating meteorological equipment and computers. Photo by Cyndi Patterson Ombudsman Using the information they col- Sights like this beautiful rainbow are common scene lect from the National Hurri- around GTMO. This picture was taken in the Nob Corner cane Center and forecasters Hill Housing area. Steve Doherty stationed in Virginia, AGs in- (Retired Steve) form command officials about NAVSTA Ombudsman weather conditions relevant to rate, you can be given a lot of AG “C” school to become what Ph: 77239 or 84882 GTMO. Their goal is to ensure responsibility. During Hurri- is known as a ‘site wavered’ gtmo pilots take off in the best pos- cane Dean, I had to brief the forecaster. Selection into this [email protected] sible weather conditions. CO and XO about weather community requires a high Jennifer Amaio In a unique location such as conditions. There are not a lot level of math and science. US Naval Hospital GTMO, AGs are able to see of other rates where you can There are currently about Ombudsman storms and weather activity at say you have to do that,” said 1,500 AGs in the entire Navy. Pager 72090 #493 further distances than a typi- Aerographer’s Mate Airman “It is important to have excel- [email protected] cal base. Janelle Pooler. lent communication and deci- The team of GTMO observ- NAVLANTMETOCDET sion making skills. You have to Machele Friend ers recently put their weather Guantanamo Bay currently has be able to make quick deci- Navy Expeditionary three observers onboard and sions on your feet,” said Pooler. Guard Battalion analyzing skills to the test dur- Ombudsman ing two big storms in GTMO- receives all forecasts from If you would like to learn State-side Liaison Hurricane Dean and Tropical Norfolk. Students typically more about the AG rating, visit [email protected] Storm Noel. become observers right out of your command career coun- “As a junior person in this “A” school, but must attend selor. 4 Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 Greyhound offer discounts Provided by Greyhound Lines, Inc. Greyhound is proud to carry — TheTen-percent discount those who serve our country may not be used in conjunction and is doing something about with the $198 maximum fare. it. Active duty and retired mili- Greyhound also honors tary personnel and their depen- those who have served to pre- dent family members may reserve our way of life. With the ceive a 10-percent discount off Veterans Advantage Discount the Greyhound walk-up (unre- Card, members can save 15 stricted) fare. Another option for percent on walk-up fares at the military personnel is to travel on terminal or online. Veterans Ad- Greyhound for a maximum fare vantage is available for U.S. of $198 round trip anywhere in Military Veterans, active duty, the continental United States. National Guard & Reservists Fares are valid on Greyhound and their family members. schedules and those of partici- Membership is good for dis- pating interline carriers; this is counts on travel, dining, enter- not available on Greyhound’s available. The discount not the advance purchase require- tainment, clothing, and many Canadian routes.This fare ap- available with $198 maximum ment is not violated. other services and products. To plies only to active and retired military fare. — Advance purchase tick- become a member and get this members of the United States There are some other condi- ets purchased over the phone discount, apply online at the Armed Forces, which includes tions and limitations: require a minimum of ten days Veterans Advantage Web site or the U.S. Air Force, Army, Coast Only totally unused tickets for delivery by mail and for call 1-866-838-7392. A Veter- Guard, Marines and Navy, as may be refunded to the loca- online orders. ans Advantage 30-day free trial well as members of the National tion of the original purchase. A — Casino, commuter, Dis- offer is currently available for Guard, reservists and their 15-percent penalty fee applies covery Pass, student or other Greyhound riders to thank you bonafide identifiable spouses upon refund. No refund will be special military fares do not for your service. Full member- and dependents. A valid military allowed if any portion of the qualify for the military discount. ships are available for as low picture identification card must ticket has been used. — Fares are subject to as $59.95 for one year, plus be presented upon request. A — Departure date and time change until purchase and may $4.95 to process enrollment. 40-percent discount for children may be changed for a charge be higher during peak holiday of these military personnel is of $10 per ticket provided that travel periods. Midshipmen sink arch-rival Black Knights, again Story by Patrick Norton, Stars and Stripes

They might want to rename the Army-Navy drive in which the Black Knights mixed the pass two forced fumbles. Game, the Navy-Army Game or just the Navy and the run, but failed to score after getting inside Army will have a lot to think about in the off Game. the red zone. Army even showed some big-game season. First-year Head Coach Stan Brock has Navy, 8-4, won its record sixth-straight Army- moxie with a gutsy fourth and 1 call on the Navy already said his team will have an off-season re- Navy game with a 38-3 route of Army on Satur- 11.Navy tied its season high with three punts in treat to look at his offense, which was offensive day in the 108th meeting of the two academies. the first half and was outgained by Army 134 to at times this year. Brock has insinuated that the The Midshipmen will also keep the Commander- 125, but was still able to take a commanding 24- Black Knights will look hard at bringing back the in-Chief trophy after sweeping the other service 3 lead. option to the academy. academies for the fifth-straight season. The much-maligned Navy defense made big Navy also has a lot to think about as they Army, 3-9, could move the football, but could play after big play. The Midshipmen were statis- prepare for another trip to the Poinsettia Bowl, not score, and that was the story of the day. tically one of the worst defenses in the nation, and even though they were the bitterest of rivals Navy didn’t move the ball at will like they often ranking No. 107 in total defense by surrendering on this cold, December day, the two schools have this year, but they played polished football 458.3 yards a game and No. 117 in scoring de- realize they have a bigger, joint mission. the kind of football that has carried the Midship- fense by allowing defenses to score an average “Tonight or tomorrow, they’ll be on the same men to their fifth-straight bowl game. of 39.6 points per game. team,” said Naval Acedemy Coach, Paul The tone of the game was set early when That was then and this is now: Navy had Johnson. “That’s what makes this game so Army received the ball first and had a methodical seven tackles for a loss, five pass break ups and great.” Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 5 ISD reminds users... Story provided by Daphne J. Walton, IT Director As users on a DoN network, authorized use only. you’ve all clicked the “OK” but- By using this IS, you consent ton on the standard DoD Notice to the following conditions: and Consent banner that is dis- -The USG routinely monitors played on your computer when communications occurring on you first log on to the network. this IS, and any device attached And I’m sure I’m not exaggerat- to this IS, for purposes including when I say that 99% of you ing, but not limited to, penetra- have probably never really read tion testing, COMSEC monitor- it. ing, network defense, quality You may have noticed that control, and employee miscon- there is a new Notice and Con- duct, law enforcement, and sent banner, and may have even counterintelligence investigations. read the first couple of lines, then -At any time, the USG may clicked “OK” without another inspect and/or seize data stored thought. on this IS and any device attached I strongly recommend you to this IS. take a few minutes to read the -Communications occurring new banner so that you know on or data stored on this IS, or vide security for the benefit of local nationals in host countries). exactly what you are consenting any device attached to this IS, the USG. These protections are This policy is not intended to to when you click that “OK” but- are not private. They are subject not provided for your benefit or negate any privilege recognized ton. The thrust of this new policy to routine monitoring and search. privacy and may be modified or by law (e.g., attorney-client, psy- is to make clear there is no ex- -Any communications occur- eliminated at the USG’s discre- chotherapist-patient or clergy- pectation of privacy when using ring on or data stored on this IS, tion. man-penitent privileges) with re- Navy information systems and or any device attached to this IS, This policy applies to all Navy spect to communications over all use of Navy information sys- may be disclosed or used for any information systems and users of DoD information systems. To the tems is subject to searching, au- USG-authorized purpose. those systems to include U.S. extent such privileges would have diting, inspecting, seizing, and -Security protections may be Armed Forces members, U.S. existed and been recognized, but monitoring, even if some personal utilized on this IS to protect cer- Civil Service employees, Depart- for the new banner and user use of a system is permitted. You tain interests that are important ment of Defense contractors, and agreement, this policy intends to may be accessing a U.S. Gov- to the USG. For example, pass- non-U.S. Government personnel effect no change. ernment (USG) information sys- words, access cards, encryption (including foreign military person- tem (IS) that is provided for USG- or biometric access controls pro- nel, foreign civilian employees, or

Money Talks — Sailors from many differant commands took time to attend the Command Financial Specialist course, taught by the Fleet and Family Support Center. The following sailors completed this one week course and are now certified Command Financial Specialists: Front left: PS1 Perera; MA1 Smith; MA1 Bunche; AO1 Lopez and Paul Walker; (FFSC Instructor). Back Left: HM1 Foster; GM1 Green; PR1 Mostoller; MA1 Greening; CT1 Mclaughlin and AD1 Rosa.

Photo provided by Paul Walker 6 Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 Letters to Santa Claus

Picture by Bruce Lloyd 35 years of service — (Left to right) Children may drop off their 'Letters to Naval Station Executive Officer, CDR Sylvester Santa Claus' in a box located near the Moore, Navy Exchange Manager, Don Mohlman front desk of the Navy Exchange. The and Navy Federal Credit Union Branch deadline for drop off is Manager, Kim Veditz cut into a decorated cake on Thursday, Dec. 13. Friday, Nov. 30. The ceremony honors 35 years Santa Claus will be in front of the NEX that the Navy Federal Credit Union has been on Saturday, Dec. 8, 9 a.m. - 1p.m. and here serving the public in Guantanamo Bay. again on Saturday, Dec. 15, 8 a.m. - Noon. Parade... From page 1 On Saturday, Dec. 15, Santa Claus will pull thirty letters from his bag American actress best known for her role “He (Hope) en- and give away 30 presents to as Esther Valentine on The Young and the couraged me to children who dropped off letters to Restless, which she has played since 1982 come to Holly- him. All children need to be present and Karri Turner, another American televi- wood when the at 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15. sion actress who played Lieutenant Harriet war was over. Sims Roberts on the television series JAG. Hope gave me the combination to the joke It was a real Hollywood affair as the file lock and sent me to March Field (March volunteered six hours of their time on Sun- stars were photographed at length, hounded AFB, Riverside, CA) to stand-in for him day morning to clean-up the parade route. for autographs and pulled left and right for 55 years ago, and I haven’t stopped since!” Leave it to the Seabees! personal pictures. After all the floats arrived at the Down- “They used a street sweeper, but the Grant, who traveled with Bob Hope for town Lyceum, it was time to hand out tro- candy frequently required scraping with decades on the United Service Organiza- phies for the best floats. But in a sense, shovels, since it was ground into the road tions (USO) Christmastime trips, said this the Electric Light Parade is always best by the parade vehicles and Saturday nights was his 60th overseas holiday trip. Grant, judged on the faces of those in attendance traffic”, said LTJG Tony Vader, Assistant who has been around some of Hollywood’s that stand less than four feet tall. And with Public Works Officer. best and brightest stars, is approaching his that criteria in mind, this year’s parade was Many thanks go out to two Sailors who 85th birthday and recently told the USO a total success. volunteered their time and thought ahead that this will be his last venture overseas. This year’s Christmas Electric Light about cleaning up after the parade. The two “It is a bittersweet trip for me,” he said. Parade might have gone off without a Seabees were EO2 Mario Perez and BUCN “The USO and military have been a big part hitch, but someone had to clean up after Tyler Wilmot, both from the PWD Self- of my life, ever since WWII, when as a it. The Electric Light Parade left Sherman Help shop. Bravo Zulu to you both! GI, I emceed a show and introduced Bob Avenue littered with extra candy and gar- Hope.” bage. Two Seabees from the self-help shop Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 7 Encourage Sailors to “ACT” to prevent suicide Story by MCC Teresa J. Frith, Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs Beginning next year, a new or others who can provide as- Navy suicide prevention cam- sistance. paign asks Sailors to “ACT” Suicide is ranked as the 11th now to save a life. leading cause of death nation- ACT is a three-step process wide. For the past 10 years, it designed to help determine if has also been the second or third someone is suicidal and to pre- leading cause of death among vent them from hurting them- active duty Sailors.Studies have selves. It stands for: Ask- ask shown there are about four sui- the person if they are thinking cides each month in the Navy. of hurting themselves; Care- lis- These unnecessary deaths signs that someone may be con- sist Sailors at risk and help train ten and let the person know they have an impact on the entire sidering taking their own life. people to recognize the signs of are not alone, and; Treatment- armed forces, as suicide can OPNAVINST 1720.4 re- possible suicidal tendencies, get your shipmate to help as decrease morale and combat quires that all commands con- most of which are as close as quickly as possible. The helper readiness of Sailors everywhere. duct regular suicide prevention the Fleet and Family Support might be the duty officer, chap- Because of this, it is important training. There are also other Center. lain, friend, medical personnel, that everyone is aware of the resources available to both as- Balloon Twisting 101 Story by MC1 Robert Lamb, Naval Station Public Affairs Holiday Boat Parade

LT Steven J. Bernick, MD, Staff Physician, this for the first time. He even took the time to Internal Medicine, Naval Hospital Guantanamo make sure we all understood how to make the might have dreamed of growing up to be a doc- specific item by helping us make each one twice." tor, but who knew that he would also master the Balloon Twisting 101 didn't attract the crowd craft of balloon art. he had hoped for, but this attention to detail with Over the weekend Bernick impressed a hand ballons caught the eye of Morale, Welfare and full of kids along with a few curious adults in the Recreation Director, Craig Basel. art of balloon Twisting 101. Destiny or not, "MWR has already asked me to teach an- Bernick picked up the art in between studies at other class to their staff. For any parents out college. there who want to be "This was one of the hit of their child’s the many jobs I did birthday party, this is a to put myself great skill to have", through college", added Bernick. said Bernick. "I "After I left the class, learned it from a I felt confident in show- woman that I ob- ing my friends what I served doing it in a learned and how they restaurant...and can do this as well. Of thought it looked like course, this was a be- Sat. Dec. 8, a lot of fun. It turned ginners class, so the out she needed help, items I learned how to and before I new it, make were simple and 6 p.m. I was taking over appropriate for my un- her business and hir- derstanding of balloon To sign up or ing others to help me twisting", added out." Fischer. "I would en- FMI call 2345. "I was very im- courage anyone who pressed with his knowledge and user-friendly wants to have fun, laugh, and learn a great skill techniques", LTJG Jaclyn E. Fischer said. "He for parties or get together’s, to check out this Great view from the made the atmosphere very comfortable and we class." all had lots of laughs as we learned how to do Bayview 8 Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 Give the perfect gift this holiday season Story provided by Kristine M. Sturkie, NEXCOM PAO

Looking for the perfect gift this holiday season? Purchase a NEX Gift Card. The NEX Gift Card can be used just like cash for most merchandise and service purchases in any military exchange worldwide. “NEX Gift Cards make great gifts,” said Mike Powers, Director, Retail Operations at the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). “They’re perfect for military members stationed away from home during the holiday season because, thanks to a change in the program, they can now be used at any military exchange around the world. As part of the cross-accep- tance of the gift card program, your NEX now also accepts AAFES and MCX Gift Cards.” Unlike AAFES and MCX stores, NEX Gift Cards have no fees and no expiration dates. NEX Gift Cards can be purchased online download a personal photo that can be mailed to APO/FPO addresses. and can include a personalized greeting affixed to the front of the card. Customer NEX Gift Cards can be purchased in card for just $3.25, plus U.S. postage. can also choose from a selection of over varying amounts at any NEX or on-line at Customers have the option to customize 1,000 themes for all occasions. The NEX www.navy-nex.com by both exchange- their gift card online with a message and Gift Card with greeting card can also be authorized and non-authorized customers. Sailor of The Week Goodbye Chief !

Photo by MC1 Robert Lamb " I thought, wow, me? It’s great to be recognized and appreciated," said Jones. "Thank you to A retirement party for Asst. Fire Chief Ben everyone that has helped guide me Miller, celebrating 30 years of service, will take in the right direction." place on Sunday, Dec. 9th 7 p.m.at the MWR Sailing Center. GTMO community invited, food MA3 Tameka Jones, NAVSTA Security will be provided Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 9 CreatureCreature Feature:Feature: MerlinMerlin Story, photo provided by José B. Montalvo, Natural Resources Manager, Environmental Department

The Merlin (Falco columbarius) is another true falcon occasionally seen at GTMO where they are considered un- common migrants. Their scientific name translates to ‘dove-like hawk’ and they are sometimes called pigeon hawks due to the similar sizes and wing shapes. Because of their rapid wing beat, they resemble pigeons/doves when in flight. Merlins are also often referred to as miniature Per- egrine Falcons. As a group, Falcons are known as the fastest birds of prey and Merlins can effortlessly reach cruising speeds of 45 miles per hour. Merlins are found worldwide breeding in northern latitudes and migrating into southern latitudes in winter. There are three distinct races of Merlin found in North America with the Tiaga race being the coastal migrant. Merlins are easily recognized by their “sideburns,” a dark line on their face running down from the eye. Males have blue- gray backs and rufous (reddish-brown) undersides with heavy dark streaks. Their tails are slate colored with a dark band at the tip. Females and juveniles are uni- formly brown with lightly streaked undersides. Females are slightly larger than males, about 12 inches long with wing- spans of 23 - 24 inches. Merlins are efficient predators and feed on small to medium sized birds, almost always taken in flight. They have been known to take birds as large or larger than themselves. They will also feed on insects, rodents and small reptiles but birds are their primary prey. To consistently take birds “on the wing”, Merlins must hunt in open country and generally oc- cupy shorelines, open forests or scrubland Merlins will feed on insects, rodents and small reptiles but birds are interspersed with open areas. their primary prey. Merlins favor open woodlands and similar open areas for nesting. However, they have recently been seen nesting in urban young. The young remain together after migratory and overwintering requirements areas. Like most Falcons, Merlins do not leaving the nest and may migrate south which many migratory birds take advan- build a nest but take over old nests built together. tage of. Large tracts of unimproved and by other birds. Nests are usually in trees, DOD installations provide excellent semi-improved areas combined with de- sometimes on cliffs, rarely on the ground habitat for Merlins and migratory birds in veloped/landscaped acreage at most ac- and almost never in a tree cavity. Two to general, as well as many other species of tivities provide migratory birds with the five eggs are laid in early spring and both wildlife. The geographic location of many habitats needed for survival throughout the parents aggressively defend the nest and DOD facilities coincides with nesting, year. 10 Friday Dec. 7, 2007 Downtown Lyceum Elizabeth: The MWR Friday, Dec. 7 Golden Age Happenings This Christmas FAMILY FUN DAY 7 p.m., PG13, 119 min. Dec. 8 at the Windjammer Pool at 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free food and drinks Rendition Floaties allowed, Iceberg and banana boat provided 9 p.m., R, 122 min. FMI Call Tony 2205 or 77262

Saturday, Dec. 8 HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE December 8th, 6pm at the Marina. To Enchanted Sign Up or FMI call 2345 or email at 7 p.m., PG, 107 min. [email protected] Historical Drama PG13 114 min Beowulf Cast: Cate Blanchett, Clive Owen GTMO MARATHON and Geoffrey Rush 9 p.m., PG13, 114 min. The film opens in 1585; Roman December 8th, Run begins at Base Catholic Spain is the most powerful Gym promptly at 0530, Individual country in Europe, with King Philip II Runners or Teams of 2 or 4, Runners Sunday, Dec. 9 on his throne. Seeing Protestant must sign up by Dec 7th - no sign ups Michael Clayton England as a threat as well as in on race day, Participants: Please join retaliation for England’s constant us Friday Dec 7th from 1800 to 2000, 7 p.m., R, 120 min. piracy of Spanish ships, Philip for a pre-run pasta dinner. intends to make war on his long-time FMI call Audrey at 75576 or LCDR enemy. Monday, Dec. 10 Huff at 72102 Beowulf WINTER WONDERLAND SKATING The Comebacks & CRAFT FAIR 7 p.m., PG13, 84 min. December 14th, 6 p.m. at the Hockey Rink. Festive Music, Go Carts, Putt Putt Golf, Hot Apple Cider, Sugar Tuesday, Dec. 11 Cookies for kids to decorate, Santa Elizabeth:The Golden Age and GIVEAWAYS!. Hotdogs, Chips, Water, Soda, Cotton Candy, Popcorn, 7 p.m., PG-13, 114 min. Adult Beverages available for purchase.

Craft Fair Information:Tables are $10, Wednesday, Dec. 12 Deadline Sign Up Dec 12th 2000. Sign Why Did I Get Married Action, Adventure PG-13 114 min up at the Ceramic Shop For Event Cast: Angelina Jolie, Ray Winstone, Information: 75225 7 p.m., PG13, 118 min. Anthony Hopkins In the age of heroes comes the LIBERTY DECEMBER EVENTS mightiest warrior of them all, Beowulf. After destroying the overpowering de- Dec 7th Free Paintball 1900 at the Thursday, Dec. 13 mon Grendel, he incurs the undying Paintball Range. Dec 8th Kayaking This Christmas wrath of the beast’s ruthlessly seduc- Trip 0800 at the Marina. Dec 12th tive mother, who will use any means Liberty at the Lanes 1800 at the 7 p.m., PG13, 119 min. possible to ensure revenge. The ensu- Bowling Center. Dec 14th Night ing epic battle resonates throughout the Fishing 1900 at the Marina. Dec 15th ages, immortalizing the name of Wake Boarding/Skiing 1000 at the Beowulf. Marina Friday, Dec. 7, 2007 11 GTMO Shopper new, $75. Two X-Box games, $10 Melissa Belleman at 75555 or seat covers, recently painted For Sale . or all 7 games for $80. FMI call [email protected]. $900. FMI call 4502. (2) Washer, dryer, microwave, 77828. (2) Navy Federal Credit Union is (1) 2004 Bajaj Cheetak Scooter, toaster, irons, memory and other (1) New mountain bike w/ seeking a Part Time Member 150CC, manual transmission. items. FMI call 77116. helmet$75; Washer & Dryer Service Representative. Excellent running condition, (2) First years 5 in 1 bassinet, excellent condition$300. FMI call Approximately 32-35 hours per comes with helmet, goggles, bought in June, used only a few 77988 or 9798. week. Applicants should be spare tire and tool kit. $2000. FMI times, vibrating motion, sounds, (1) SCSI Phone, used 1 month, flexible, outgoing, and possess a call 77911 or 5195. lights. $75. FMI call 75687. ready to be activated $ 180, OBO; professional appearance. FMI or (2007 Motofino Scooter, very low (2) Buoyancy Compensators:One 13" Color TV, great for a child’s to submit an application, please mileage, electric start, 125 CC, Lady Hawk BCD-medium room $ 30 and Gary Fisher 26" visit www.navyfcu.org and then spacious seat storage. FMI call integrated $250,One Ladies Ladies Bike, 5 years old, seldom click on “careers” 77129. Seaquest Balance BCD-small used, $ 150 OBO. FMI call 75579. Announcements (1) 1989 Chevy S10, reliable, work integrated $100,One men’s (1) 10 months old Gas lawnmower horse, greatLost/Found for GTMO, new tires, RAVDACOR BCD-large non- - $80. FMI call 4519 or 78690. (2) PTO Meeting. Tues., Dec. 11, new paint, dive rack. FMI call integrated $75,One TUSA Pas- (1) Golf set, ball picker upper, $12. 6 p.m. PTO Room at the Elementary 77129. sage BCD-small nonintegrated FMI call 78471. School (A Wing). FMI call 75654. (1)1995 Toyota Sprinter LX, $75,One Tusa Liberator BCD- (1) Taylor Made Driver, 540 series, (2) House for Rent:, 1051 excellent condition, A/C, stereo, small integrated $100,One Scuba bought for $300, selling for $155. Beckingham Dr, St Augustine new tires, automatic, very good Pro Glide Plus BCD-medium hardly used. FMI call 78471. Florida . About 30 miles from on gas. $3300. FMI call 78471. integrated $225,One Dacor BCD- (1) Moving sale: Expandable TV/ NAS Jacksonville and 29 miles (1) 1990 Acura Integra, CD large back inflator integrated Entertainment console w/glass from A1A Beach). 4 Bedroom / 2 Player, A/C, good condition. FMI $100,One Seaquest Balance BCD- doors and lighting. Roll Top desk, Baths. 1 Year lease at $1150/ call 77758 or 4222 or 4700 or 4577. medium integrated $100. computer desk, upright storage month. FMI call 77000. Regulators:One Tusa reg set cabinet, yard plants and garden- (1) Happy Birthday Nancy Lost $200,One Mares reg set $125,One ing supplies/tools. Various Brewton! And tell her not to be (2) Lost underwater digital camera Sherwood reg set $200. All potted plants and trees. too hard on those of us last Saturday while diving at regulators include octo, gauges Everything must go. FMI call responsible for posting. We love Kittery Beach. A small reward and compass. 6HP Evinrude 75626. . you and miss you, your family for anyone that may turn it in. Outboard, like new $600. FMI call and friends FMI call 77241 or 4409. 75270. Employment (1) Happy Birthday Nancy (2) BCD for sale. Large Dacor (2) Part time Administrative Carlson! From all your friends Yard Sales Hemisphere BCD. Used twice. Assistant. 20 hours per week. and family in Guantanamo Bay. Dec. 7 & 8 — Granadillo Circle, $250 OBO. FMI call 5027 or 5025. Maintain current records, and Vehicles/Boats #77A, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. (2) New Mountain Bike w/helmet perform functions associated with Dec. 8 — Caravella Point, #20 A, $75; Queen pillow-top bed w/box the day to day operations of the (2) 18.5 foot Center Console Boat. 8 - 10 a.m. spring $60; Washer & Drier campus. Applicants must be Has VHF “Ray Marine” band Dec. 8 — Caribbean Circle, excellent condition $300. FMI familiar with MS Windows and radio, new never used 21C, 7 a.m. - noon. call 77988 or 9798. MS Office and are preferred to Hummingbird 300 w/GPS chart Dec. 9 — Center Bargo, #1155, 8 (2) 5 piece light-wood colored have advanced computer skills, plotter depth finder, 9hp kicker a.m. - noon. bedroom set $1000; 4 piece dark- and some college coursework. motor, trailer, 115hp Evinrude wood colored bedroom set $300; Minimum acceptable qualifi- outboard engine recently 27” TV $150; Great condition cations include superior serviced, pole holders, safety There will be no washer and dryer $300 and organizational and critical equipment, cup holders, Gazette Kitchen corner table $100. FMI thinking skills, the ability to cushioned seats, anchor, trim published on call 9787. handle confidential information, tabs, new compass. Great dive (2) Hewlett Packard Desktop excellent oral and written and fishing boat. $7000. FMI call Dec. 28, and the Computer, Includes - CPU, communication skills. FMI or to 75270. Jan. 4, 2008 Monitor & Keyboard, Windows apply, contact Columbia College (2) 1987 Chevrolet Astro Van, V6 edition will be a XP installed., Approximately 5 at 75555. engine. Set up for dive gear. $1350 'Year in years old., Good condition. $200. (2) Columbia College is seeking OBO FMI call 75270. FMI call 77621. instructors to teach the following (2) Jet-ski w/ trailer $2000 and Review'. (2) One computer desk, one courses: Computer Information 2003 Dodge Neon RT 40k $8000. Classified Ads computer chair, never been used, Systems, Economics, Geography, FMI call 9787. will be still in the box, want $80. FMI call History, Humanities, Music, (2) 1990 Nissan Sentra. New Tires, published in 77845. Psychology, Political Science, brakes, and Oil/Filter. Runs (2) GE Washer & Dryer in good Sociology and Spanish. Minimum excellent and great on gas. $1700 the Jan. 4th condition $ 250 for both. qualifications include a Master’s OBO. FMI call 77222. edition. Symphonic 13 Inch. TV $ 30. FMI Degree in the related field (1) 2002 50cc Milan/Vespa call 77123 including courses directly related Scooter in good condition with 2 (1) Free Couch with slipcover, to the content area. Current helmets and gloves. $450, OBO Gazette submissions are new fat tire bike $50, heart rate workplace experience in an willing to negotiate. FMI call 77745 monitor, never used $35. associated field and college or 84184. due by Tuesday at noon for FMI call 77398 or 3632. teaching experience are highly (1) 2002 EZ-Go Golf Cart. Good that Fridays paper. (1) Five X-box “360 “ games like desired. To apply, contact condition, 4 new batteries, new What a night — Victoria Secret super models Marisa Miller, (left) and Selita Ebanks Chiefs anchor parade — The Chief Petty took time after the Electric Light Parade to pose Officers Association sailed their float from SCSI all with U.S. Marines from the Marine Corps Security the way to the Downtown Lyceum. GMC Joshua Force Company, Guantanamo, along with a few Tolleson took the helm as others threw candy along other adoring fans. the parade route.

Feliz Navidad — The GTMO Latino Group is always a hit when they go through the parade route singing and playing music. La Navidad (latín: nativitas, ‘nacimiento’ )? es una de las Big supporter — Actress Karri Turner, best fiestas más importantes del Cristianismo, junto con known for her role as “Lt. Harriet Sims” on the la Pascua y Pentecostés, pues celebra el long-running television series “JAG.” Among many nacimiento de Jesucristo. other acting roles, Turner has appeared on the NBC “La Posadas,” the remarkable buildup to TV series “Heroes” and will appear in the upcoming Christmas Eve, is perhaps the most delightful and Steve Carell movie, “Get Smart,” scheduled for 2008 unique Mexican tradition. Beginning Sun. release. Turner has gone overseas to perform at December 16, it commemorates the events in the military bases in Iraq, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Kuwait and Korea. She's also been a frequent Bethlehem. visitor at military hospitals around the country. Photos by MC1 Robert Lamb