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Serving the Hampton Roads Navy Family Vol. 17, No. 40, Norfolk, VA FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM October 8, 2009 Military provides rescue and humanitarian relief in the Pacifi c BY DONNA MILES AND The aircraft will transport car- of the territories’ islands that LT. J.G. THERESA DONNELLY go and personnel required to wiped out entire villages. At least America Forces Press Service support disaster relief efforts, 65 people are reported dead in Sa- she said. moa, more than 20 in American WASHINGTON — While Meanwhile, USS Ingraham Samoa, and at least six in neigh- U.S. special operators conduct a (FFG 61), homeported at Naval boring Tonga. massive rescue effort after devas- Station Everett, Wash., is en route “Our thoughts and prayers are tating fl ooding in the Philippines, to provide needed support, White with the people in the affected the Hawaii Air National Guard said. Ingraham is an Oliver Haz- communities,” White said. and USS Ingraham (FFG 61) are ard Perry-class frigate. Meanwhile, members of Joint headed to American Samoa to FEMA offi cials asked the De- Special Operations Task Force support rescue and humanitarian fense Department to provide Philippines assisted the Philip- relief there following a massive medical triage, hazardous mate- pine armed forces in rescuing Photo by MC2 Tiffi ni Jones Vanderwyst earthquake and tsunami. rial response, mass casualty care 52 people stranded by massive Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead delivers remarks during The Hawaii Air Guard is slat- and strategic airlift. Offi cials are fl ooding during Tropical Storm Department of the Navy Sexual Assault Prevention Summit in Washington D.C. ed to fl y two C-17 Globemaster identifying the appropriate units Ketsana earlier this week. III transport jets to American Sa- to provide this support, White The storm, known locally as Military leaders on sexual moa today in response to Federal said. Tropical Storm Ondoy, struck in Emergency Management Agency An 8.3 magnitude earthquake the Manila area Sept. 27 and 28. (FEMA) requests, Air Force Maj. struck 120 miles south of Amer- The fl oods displaced hundreds of assault: ‘Not in my Navy’ Rene White, a Pentagon spokes- ican Samoa yesterday afternoon, PRESS RELEASE woman, reported. generating 15-foot waves in some See PACIFIC, A13 Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs personnel, plans and policy division. “We will call upon the total workforce WASHINGTON — Following — active, reserve and civilians — to closely on the heels of the fi rst De- educate themselves and their ship- partment of the Navy Sexual Assault mates on prevention and response Prevention and Response (SAPR) programs, to report crimes, or sus- Summit hosted by Secretary of the pected crimes before they occur, and Navy Ray Mabus in September, Navy to speak out when called upon during is moving forward to eliminate sexu- investigations and prosecutions.” al assault. The chief of naval operations desig- Key stakeholders were identifi ed nated chief of naval personnel as the and charged in NAVADMIN 282/09 executive agent for the sexual assault to reinforce Navy’s SAPR program, prevention and response program. which was established in 1994 under The Bureau of Naval Personnel will the name Sexual Assault Victim In- work closely with other key orga- tervention. nizations, including medical, legal, The name change aligns with the criminal investigations, security, vic- mission of the program, underlining tim advocacy, military commands the importance of both prevention and civilian resources to redouble and response. their efforts to educate the total force While Navy was the fi rst service to on preventative and response pro- develop a program of its kind, it is not grams. resting on past successes as it seeks “Sexual assault is inconsistent with to eliminate sexual assault from its our Navy Ethos, and our Navy total ranks. force will be held to the high stan- Photo by MC2 William Ramsey “We will raise the bar when it comes dards, which they are expected to U.S. Navy SEAL Teams One and Seven, Naval Special Boat Teams 12 and 20, and medical personnel assigned to sexual assault prevention and maintain as we reinforce a culture to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines rescue Manila residents after fl ooding destroyed homes and displaced thousands of people. Two boats assisted more than 52 people, including a woman in labor, response,” said Rear Adm. Dan Hol- intolerant of sexual assault,” said Hol- elderly residents and children. loway, director of the Navy’s military loway.

Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Gina Wollman Offi cer-in-Charge of USS Nashville (LPD 13) Cmdr. Brian Peterson, smiles as he takes one last glace at the ship after the offi cial party is dismissed and the decommissioning ceremony of Nashville is fi nally complete. Saying farewell to USS Nashville

BY MC2 NIKKI SMITH ing home,” said Larry “Pops” Collins, part of Navy Public Affairs Support Element, East Nashville’s Commissioning Crew. NORFOLK — After 39 years of faithful U.S. Navy Capt. Brian Weaver, U.S. Ma- service, USS Nashville (LPD 13) was decom- rine Forces Command Norfolk, gave the missioned during a ceremony, Sept. 30, at Invocation and Benediction while Nashville’s Norfolk Naval Station on Pier 4. remaining crew manned the rails throughout Decommissioning ceremonies mark the the entire ceremony. Cmdr. Brian Peterson, conclusion of a ship’s active service. During officer-in-charge USS Nashville, delivered Nashville’s decommissioning ceremony, it the opening remarks and read the Notifica- lost its lifeblood when the crew disembarked, tion of Decommissioning. At the conclusion the watch was secured and the colors were of the ceremony, the Norfolk Naval Base struck for the last time. “It’s time for those Band played Anchors Aweigh as the crew of of us who knew her to say goodbye,” said Nashville disembarked the ship one final time keynote speaker, retired Vice Adm. Frank taking with them the ship’s ensign and its Donovan, commanding officer of the Nash- commissioning pennant. ville from 1982 - 1983. Nashville’s history is long and storied. It has More than 100 previous Nashville crew taken part in several nationally and internation- Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Gina Wollman members attended the ceremony, including ally known events since its commissioning on Retired Vice Adm. Frank Donovan’s grandson watches crew members of USS more than 35 members of the original crew. Feb. 14, 1970 in Bremerton, Wash. It has partic- Nashville (LPD 13) depart the ship for the fi nal time during a decommissioning “Going back on the ship was almost like com- ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk. The Nashville was decommissioned after See NASHVILLE, A13 more than 39 years of dedicated service to the fl eet.

INSIDE: AROUND THE NAVY A6 FRONT & CENTER B1 OFF DUTY C1 Leap Frogs help Boy Scouts Cole Sailors provide Bruce Smith: Teamwork celebrate 100 Years civil maritime support Bruce Smith is set to tell Sailors U.S. Navy parachute demonstration Sailors of the guided missile destroy- about teamwork at Naval Station team help the Boy Scouts celebrate er USS Cole (DDG 67) encountered a Norfolk’s Vista Point Club, Oct. 13. 100 years of scouting in San Diego. unique training opportunity. NASHVILLE: After 39 years of service, Observing Domestic Violence USS Nashville (LPD 13) was decommissioned Awareness month in October Continued from page A1 PRESS RELEASE Through counseling, however, adults Navy Installations Command Public Affairs can learn to treat their partners with ipated in operations Desert WASHINGTON — The Navy is ob- compassion and respect and avoid ma- Storm, Desert Shield, Iraqi serving Domestic Violence Awareness nipulation and criticism, even during Freedom and Enduring Month in October as an opportunity to arguments. Freedom as well as playing inform Sailors and Navy spouses about Professional services of licensed a part in two evacuations domestic violence prevention efforts as counselors are available free of charge of American citizens from well as reporting options for victims. at Fleet and Family Support Centers. Lebanon (1982 and 2006). Domestic violence cuts across all age These are available to active duty and The ship was christened groups and social classes. It happens their family members – even Sailors and sponsored by Roy L. to Sailors as well as spouses; to men as who are unmarried can have couple’s Johnson. Her granddaugh- well as women. counseling with their partners. ter, Kathryn Coombs, Domestic violence goes beyond phys- A variety of courses that teach healthy represented her family at ical abuse. It includes emotional abuse relationship skills are also available Nashville’s decommission- such as threats, isolation, extreme jeal- at Fleet and Family Support Centers. ing ceremony and brought ousy and humiliation. It also includes These include anger management and with her the original invita- sexual abuse. Whenever an adult is conflict resolution. These are also free tion to the commissioning placed in physical danger or controlled and available to both active duty mili- ceremony, the champagne by threat or use of physical force by tary and spouses. bottle that christened their spouse or intimate partner, she or “These services are available because Nashville and the press he has been abused. The risk for abuse the Navy believes so strongly in the im- clippings from the com- Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Gina Wollman is greatest when victims are separated portance of the prevention of abusive missioning that has been Kathryn Coombs, Granddaughter of USS Nashville (LPD from supportive networks. behavior,” Turner said. handed down through her 13)’s original sponsor, shows Officer-in-Charge Cmdr. The theme for Domestic Violence Turner has a simple message to those family for just this day. Brian Peterson and Public Affairs Officer Lt. Lydia E. Bock, Awareness Month this year is, “Have who are considering asking for help. “The Nashville has al- memorabilia from the ship’s christening in 1967 following the you crossed the line? End domestic vio- Don’t wait. ways been special to our decommissioning ceremony of Nashville. lence before it starts.” “Sailors who succeed with their ca- family,” said Coombs. emony. “This is a very byes were said, Nashville “Our goal is to prevent domestic vio- reers and their families have the “When you sponsor a sentimental moment … stands ready to be towed lence by encouraging people to examine strength to ask for help before a prob- ship, you take a certain seeing the ceremony and to the Naval Inactive their own behavior and take steps to lem gets out of hand,” Turner said. amount of interest in it.” seeing all these guys Ships Maintenance Facili- learn and practice more healthy behav- “The Navy knows this, which is why Coombs has followed in their fabulous dress ty in Philadelphia and will iors,” Kathy Turner, of the Fleet and they provide places to get help.” Nashville’s deployments whites … it brings my join the fleet of ready-re- Family Support Program’s Counseling Help is also available for victims of over the years, and was grandparents back.” serve ships standing by Advocacy and Prevention Program, said. domestic abuse. emotional about being at At the conclusion of the in case it is called back to Much is misunderstood about what There are two types of reporting the decommissioning cer- ceremony, after all good- service. happens when a Sailor or spouse seeks options, restricted and unrestricted. Re- help for their relationship before do- stricted reports do not involve military mestic violence occurs. All couples chain of command or law enforcement. have arguments. Making an appoint- Unrestricted reports will include some PACIFIC: FEMA officials ask DoD to provide ment for couple’s counseling does not type of investigation by command and automatically result in the creation of or law enforcement. Both options make a Family Advocacy Program, or FAP, available to victims the full range of medical triage, hazardous material response case. Nor does family or couple’s coun- advocacy, medical and counseling ser- seling harm one’s career or security vices. Continued from page A1 and worked through the wanted to do anything and clearance. Speak with a counselor of victim advo- night transporting people to everything I could do to help The Defense Department changed cate at a local Fleet and Family Support thousands of people, and the schools, churches and evac- the Filipino people. I was the question on its long-standing se- Center or a healthcare provider at a mil- most recent reports indicate uation shelters. The teams glad I could be a part of the curity clearance form referencing an itary treatment facility about restricted that nearly 100,000 people also helped to rescue a wom- rescue efforts.” applicant’s mental health history. As of and unrestricted reporting options for have been relocated, accord- an in labor who was stranded Local officials praised the 2008, Standard Form 86, the Question- domestic violence. If you think you ing to Philippines Disaster in a flooded-out house. response. “The work the naire for National Security Positions no may be a victim of domestic violence, Management Services. In addition, task force U.S. military did was ter- longer asks for mental health treatment contact the National Domestic Violence Members of Navy SEAL teams delivered 500 rific,” said Roman Romulo, details if the care involved only marital, Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or visit your teams and Naval Special pounds of food to a high Pasig City congressman. “I family, or grief counseling, not related installation Fleet and Family Support Boat Teams 12 and 20, and school Sept. 27 and con- was very thankful for U.S. to violence by the applicant, unless the Center for information on available re- U.S. medical troops attached tracted a civilian helicopter support. Your teams were treatment was court-ordered. sources. to the Philippines task force the following day to deliver able to successfully go to Another myth is that counseling is For more news from Commander, Navy responded, working with 4,200 pounds of food and Santa Lucia High School to only sought by people who have been Installations Command, visit www.navy. the island nation’s military water in Cainta, northeast help deliver food. It was a big arrested or are filing for divorce. mil/local/cni/. and government officials to of Pasig city. boost that your people were rescue people from rooftops, “These people lost their helping us.” deliver food and distribute houses [and] cars and might American Samoa is the medical supplies, officials re- still be looking for family only U.S. possession in the ported. members,” said Navy Petty southern hemisphere. It is Joint special operations Officer 2nd Class Jonathan slightly larger than Wash- task force rescue teams Porter, a joint special opera- ington, D.C., covering 76.2 launched two F-470 Zodi- tions task force medic who square miles, and has about ac boats in the flood waters provided medical care. “I 57,000 citizens. IKE Postal Clerk and Storekeeper ratings merge to form Logistic Specialist

PRESS RELEASE “It’s going to be challenging for me, of the Supply Corps. “Our work pro- USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) because I’ve been a PC for 18 years, cesses in the future will require a more Sailors from Supply Department there will be some things that I have to broadly trained Sailor who can provide aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier start from scratch – as far as learning a unique skill set to our Navy and joint USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) another rating,” stated Ellis. Even with warfi ghters. By combining these two (IKE) are taking on a new role today. the natural bumps in the road, we’ll ratings, we lay the groundwork for fu- The Navy offi cially merged the Postal make this transition go smoothly, she ture readiness and greatly enhance Clerk (PC) and Storekeeper (SK) rat- added. “I’ll be happy to be an LS, but I career opportunities for all Sailors in ings to form the new Logistic Specialist will miss being a PC.” the LS rating. (LS) rating. Dare expressed how this merger will IKE has already received orders on “The rating merger will reduce help benefi t career progression for ju- fi ve LS2s that were former PC2s. All gapped billets that have impacted SKs nior PCs and SKs. will arrive before our deployment and across the fl eet particularly in the mid- “I would tell junior PCs that they will we expect to see additional orders in dle pay grades,” explain Cmdr. Rob have a greater diversity of assignments the next few weeks, said Dare. Dare, IKE’s Supply Offi cer. “The work- that will help them get to the duty sta- “It’s a good opportunity to gain more load will be more balanced and enable tions and geographical areas that they skills and learn new things. I think it’ll the Supply Department to provide op- desire,” explained Dare. “For junior be a big change for the PC’s,” said LS2 timal customer service. Former PCs SKs, they will have more shipmates to Alisia Rowley will see better advancement and viable help with the workload while enjoying Logistic Specialist more accurate- career opportunities allowing IKE to re- new opportunities for professional cer- ly describes the knowledge, skills, tain the best Sailors.” tifi cations and a broader set of skills and abilities of the new workforce and IKE’s Supply Department has been that will enhance employability in the further aligns with our future force re- working toward this since the merger private sector” quirements, according to Rear Adm. was announced last year. The LS merger will also have an im- Lyden. He also commented that “our “We’ve been afforded a unique oppor- pact of advancement opportunities. supply enlisted community plays a tunity to be stationed aboard a carrier “I think it’s going to improve advance- vital role in executing the Navy’s Mar- where both the PC and SK rating ser- ment; there will be more opportunities itime Strategy mission both afl oat and vices are in high demand,” said LSC because the community is larger,” ex- ashore.” (SW/AW) Surrette Mazique, Leading plained Rodriguez. “It will especially “It’ll open up new opportunities for Chief Petty Offi cer (LCPO) of S-8 Mate- benefi t the PCs because the rate was so SKs with new billets and a Navy En- rial Division. “I welcome the challenge small. They’ll have a better opportunity listed Classifi cation (NEC) for us. I’m and versatility that the LS merger will to advance than before.” looking forward to working with the carry.” I think the merger is awesome. It PCs on the ship,” said LS3 (SW) Ash- Supply Department got a head start opens up more billets for us and gives ley Cooper. on the transition process by making tar- me a better chance for promotion, said “For me personally, I like a challenge geted moves to put PCs and SKs in new LSSN (SW) Christopher Wilson. and the chance to learn new things, but positions to provide a more effi cient “The merger is a step in our efforts most of all I’m very excited for our ju- transition process. to defi ne the supply enlisted work- nior folks and the opportunities this will “We started this process by sending force that will support the Navy in the give them to better themselves,” said PCs to traditional SK divisions and SKs 21st century,” said Rear Adm. Mike Rodriguez. “This merger will ultimate- to the IKE Post Offi ce. Learning on the Lyden, Command, Naval Supply Sys- ly make IKE Supply Department more job can be a stronger tool than just read- tems Command (NAVSUP) and Chief versatile.” ing it out of a book,” said LS1 (SW/AW) Keona Ellis, Leading Petty Offi cer for the IKE Post Offi ce. Chasing SECNAV Ray Mabus “We started the transition process in the IKE Post Offi ce while we were on deployment.” As with any rating merger, IKE Sail- ors in Supply Department shouldn’t expect a completely seamless transi- tion. “I think some growing pains are only natural,” said LSCS (SW/AW) Jose L. Rodriguez, S-9/Hazmat LCPO. “You’ll see the PCs that we sent to larger divi- sions in Supply having a little steeper learning curve. We’re also going to see SKs down in the Post Offi ce have that adjustment period while they learn the Photo by Michael Brayshaw ropes. Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Ray Mabus, visited Norfolk Naval Shipyard As long as we take the time to prog- on September 28 to learn about the shipyard’s present successes and plans for ress slowly and focus on our in-rate future ship repair. In the foreground, NNSY Mechanical Group Superintendent training, I think everyone will benefi t in John Walker points out some work being performed in Building 171, one of the the long run.” shipyard’s biggest industrial buildings. THE FLAGSHIP’S LEEWARD SHOUT What new awards should the Navy offer to Sailors?

“There should “Personal “I think a good be an award for Appearance award that the consistently Award for Navy could offer performing with Uniform is a fi nancial excellent scores Excellence.” stability award. on the PRT.” I have seen a lot of Sailors succumb to fi nancial problems.” CS1 (SW/AW) CSCS ET2 Wayne Browne Marshall Adkins Steven Graeff Norfolk Naval Station Galley Norfolk Naval Station Galley Sewell’s Point Precinct

“I would say an “I want the “There should Attaboy Award commands to be an ‘End of for generally be able to come Tour’ award. going above up with their When given as and beyond in own awards, an impact award everything that because if you NAM’s are you do.” try and make meaningful, but an award Navy when they are wide it might not given as an EOT apply to some they lose their of the other signifi cance.” CS1 GM3 commands.” SN Michael Atkins Nathaniel Tokich Ashley Peak TPU Norfolk PC CREW KILO NLSO Legal Assistance

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The newly formed Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story name is unveiled Oct. 1. Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and Fort Story combined as a result of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure Commission. Pictured are Army Lt. Col. Jayne Jansen, JEB deputy commander, Navy Capt. William Crow, JEB commanding officer, Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, Rear Adm. Mark S. Boensel and Rear Adm. Mark A. Handley, formerly Vice Commander, Navy Installations Command. NAB Little Creek, Fort Story combine in transformation ceremony STORY AND PHOTOS gave assurance that specific missions and (BRAC) Commission decision. Twenty-sev- John Patton Story in 1916, provides training BY MC2 SANTOS HUANTE training will continue to fall under its respec- en military installations are to be affected by in Joint-Logistics-Over-the-Shore and am- Navy Public Affairs Support Element - East tive service. the streamlining which aims to reduce opera- phibious operations. VIRGINIA BEACH — Naval Amphibi- Fort Story was the sub-installation of Fort tion costs and future service contracts. With both installations possessing a rich ous Base Little Creek and U.S. Army Garrison Eustis, which will begin a similar transition Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek was history in the local area, JEB Little Creek- Fort Story joined Oct. 1 to form Joint Expedi- early next year as it joins with Langley Air commissioned Aug. 10, 1945, created out Fort Story does not foresee any interruption tionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story. Force Base to become Joint Base Langley- of four existing bases post-WWII, to pro- for public interest. The Navy was designated as the lead agent Eustis at the end of 2010. vide necessary training in methods and “We will continue to work closely with the for the new installation with Navy Capt. Wil- The Department of Defense (DoD) and techniques for landing troops during an am- city of Virginia Beach to ensure the public liam Crow as commanding officer and Army Congress directed the realignments in 2005 phibious assault. maintains access to those historical sites,” Lt. Col Jayne Jansen as deputy commander. as part of the Base Realignment and Closure Fort Story named after Major General said Crow. Navy and Army officials from both instal- lations have actively engaged in developing process and procedures in joining the two services since 2007. The dedication ceremo- ny was the final phase in that process. “We have worked hand in hand for a seam- less transition with no [civilian] job loss affected,” said Jansen. Although savings can not be estimated so early in the process, Crow remains optimistic with the realignment. “We anticipate that savings will be derived as efficiencies and best practices are imple- mented between the two installations,” said Crow. Affected components of the joint basing include support services, community servic- Army Lt. Col. Jayne Jansen speaks during es, environmental services, fire protection, at a joint basing ceremony Oct. 1. Jansen is emergency services, security and law en- deputy commander of the newly formed Joint forcement. Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story. “Management now shifts from Army to Navy Capt. William Crow and Army Lt. Col. Jayne Jansen speak to a reporter at the joint basing Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and Fort Navy for both properties,” said Crow. He ceremony Oct. 1 for the newly formed Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek - Fort Story. Capt. Story combined as a result of the 2005 Base Crow is commanding officer for the new installation and Lt. Col. Jansen its deputy commander. Realignment and Closure Commission. Seapower Symposium highlights maritime cooperation BY GERRY J. GILMORE American Forces Press Service es from around the world garia, Denmark, Indonesia, will be represented and 98 be chaired by non-U.S. par- “It is only by working can discuss common inter- and the People’s Republic of chiefs or heads of service ticipants. together that we can ade- WASHINGTON — Na- ests and propose solutions China. will be in attendance. “This aligns, I believe quately overcome the many tions working together to to the common challenges “While each of these sym- Attendance at the New- exactly, with President challenges that we face,” he solve maritime issues of that are faced on the world’s posiums is signifi cant,” port symposium has grown, Obama’s vision that the said. “But, for as many chal- mutual interest is the focal oceans,” Navy Adm. Gary Roughead said, “the num- Roughead said, because spirit of partnership is a de- lenges as there are, there point of next week’s Interna- Roughead, chief of naval op- ber of navies that will join “there is now broad recog- fi ning feature of our foreign are an equal number, if not tional Seapower Symposium erations, told reporters at a us in Newport next week is nition that the International policy,” Roughead said. more, opportunities for us at the Naval War College in Foreign Press Center news truly remarkable.” Seapower Symposium is a Daunting contemporary to seize.” Newport, R.I., the Navy’s conference. Four years ago, Roughead platform, a venue for any na- maritime problems of in- For example, he said, senior offi cer said here to- The Newport event be- said, the ISS attracted par- tion to propose new initiative ternational scope include Malaysia, Singapore and day. gan in 1969, Roughead said, ticipation by 71 nations, to the international commu- weapons, narcotics and Thailand are working to- The 19th ISS at Newport, noting over the past two with 56 chiefs or heads of nity.” people traffi cking, piracy, gether to confront piracy in a biennial event, runs Oct. years or so he has attend- the services in attendance. All three discussion illegal fi shing and oil theft Southeast Asia. 7-9. It is “a forum where ed similar maritime-themed At this year’s symposium, panels at this year’s sympo- and smuggling, Roughead Turning to the sympo- navies and maritime servic- symposiums in Italy, Bul- the admiral said, 106 nations sium, Roughead said, will said. sium at Newport, Roughead said the building of relation- ships there “can prevent misunderstanding and fos- ter an open and honest dialogue.” Relationships built at sea can build capacity for smaller, developing na- vies that may lack the infrastructure to keep their trade, their natural resources and their popu- lation safe, he noted. “The work that we do with developed navies can work toward the mutual benefi t of all,” the admiral said.

President announces a plan to fi ght H1N1

PRESS RELEASE American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama announced today that the United States will continue to act aggressively to stop the global spread of the pan- demic 2009 H1N1 infl uenza virus. The nation also is pre- pared to make 10 percent of its H1N1 vaccine supply available to other countries through the World Health Organization, he said. There is broad, interna- tional recognition that the 2009 H1N1 pandemic pres- ents a global health risk,” Obama said in an announce- ment released Sept. 17. “Millions of people around the world have been affect- ed, thousands have died, and the virus continues to spread across international borders. The United States recogniz- es that just as this challenge transcends borders, so must our response. “We invite other nations to join in this urgent global health effort,” the president continued. “Working togeth- er, we can ensure that this vaccine limits the spread of the disease, reduces the burden on health care sys- tems, reduces the risk of an even more virulent strain emerging and, most impor- tantly, saves lives — in the United States and around the world.” The United States will make the H1N1 vaccine available to the World Health Organization on a rolling basis as vaccine supplies be- come available, in order to help countries that otherwise will not have direct access to the vaccine. White House offi cials rec- ommend that early priority at home and abroad should be given to pregnant women, health care workers, people caring for infants less than 6 months old and other high- risk populations. CHAPLAIN’S CORNER Local Fame isn’t always accolades on earth BY CHAPLAIN work the system. Regardless, we izens of this world, as followers of a GENEVIEVE CLARK, LT, USN sometimes achieve fame, even if Divine being, and even as Sailors in service times only for a moment, and yet we also the U.S. Navy, we are called to be I am excited about the new wash out sometimes. faithful. Faithful to our oath, faithful LDS PROGRAMS “Fame” movie that is coming out In the New Testament, there to the Sailors’ Creed, faithful to the JEB Little Creek Chapel Worship Schedule: Oct. 25! were several folks who also strug- laws of the land and faithful to the Noon — Sun. Worship (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) For me, it is a bit of nostalgia be- gled for the fame of the world. They laws of our Divine Being. We are 8 p.m. — Wed. Bible Study cause I remember the fi rst “Fame” were known to many as the disci- called to be true, honest and faith- (Chapel Annex Classroom 4) movie and the TV series that fol- ples of Jesus. ful, to follow through on all tasks, to lowed. I enjoyed those programs One day, while they were walking, carry out our duties, to serve God because they were relevant to my they had a discussion about who and country to the best of our abil- NAVAL STATION NORFOLK life then. was fi rst or the best among them. ities. Teenagers wanting to be famous, They wanted to know, of the 12, Will this faithfulness bring us ROMAN CATHOLIC PROTESTANT to be a “somebody” and struggling who was Jesus’ favorite; the teach- fame? Maybe, maybe not. Will it Our Lady of Victory Chapel David Adams Memorial to get noticed. Some worked hard, er’s pet, so to speak. Jesus had to bring a new ribbon, medal or coin? Mass Schedule: Chapel Worship Services: others hardly worked; except by remind them that life is not about Who knows? The point is, if you 5 p.m. — Sat. 10:30 a.m.— Sun. “working” the system to their ad- this world’s fame. Life is a journey, are doing your work, to the best of (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) Worship vantage. And at the end of the day, and along that journey there may your ability, in order to gain these 10 a.m.— Sun. Wednesday Services: some made it and some washed be moments of fame in the world’s items marking moments of fame, 11:45 a.m.— Mon.- Fri. 8:30 - 10:15 a.m.— Bible out. eyes, but there will also be mo- then you are not doing them for (except holidays) Study Noon “Lunch I fi nd that, in our Navy, we often ments of pain and misfortune. the right reasons. We are to be Confessions: with the Lord” see Sailors of all ranks and ratings The teaching in this comparison faithful in this life, and if we are, 4:15 p.m. Sat. struggling to “make it”. of a very old story and a new-again there will be fame in the next life For more information call We as humans, often want, seek movie, is the same teaching that we – for we will be with our Creator Naval Station Norfolk Chapel 444-7361 and desire fame. Sometimes we still have a hard time learning. forever, receiving the ultimate work hard and sometimes we just We are called to be faithful. As cit- medal – life everlasting. JEWISH PROGRAMS Commodore Uraih P. Levy Chapel: Jewish services are at Norfolk chapel in Building C7 on the Second Floor every Driving while drunk? Say your prayers Friday at 7:30 p.m. Building C7 is located at 1630 Morris St. on Naval Base Norfolk. For more information call 444-7361 or 7363. MUSLIM PROGRAMS Masjid al Da’wah 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7): Muslim services are at Norfolk chapel every Friday at 1:30 p.m.

JEB LITTLE CREEK CHAPEL ROMAN CATHOLIC PROTESTANT Mass Schedule: 9 a.m. — Sun. School 5 p.m.— Sat. (4 years-Adult) (fulfi lls Sunday obligation) 10:30 a.m. — Sun. 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m. — Sun. Divine Worship, 11:30 a.m. — Tues. - Fri. Children’s Church (except holidays) (Ages 4-10) Confessions: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. — Sat. PWOC: Bible Study at the Chapel Annex Every Wed. Fellowship: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: 10 a.m. - noon PWOC: Evening Bible Study Every Mon.: 7 p.m. Latter Day Saints Coffeehouse 11:30 a.m. — Sun. 6 p.m. — Sun. Photo by MC2 Amanda Clayton For more information call JEB Chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Thomas O’Flanagan says a prayer during a staged funeral for a driving under the infl uence Little Creek Chapel 462-7427 (DUI) victim in the chapel of the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) during a DUI fair. The DUI fair shows Sailors the dangers and consequences of poor decisions when abusing alcohol. AROUND THE NAVY

Photo by MC2 Michelle Kapica Chief Special Warfare Operator (SEAL) William Davis, assigned to the U.S. Navy parachute demonstration team, the Leap Frogs, shows boy scouts how to pack a parachute. The Leap Frog team parachuted onto the bow of the ship during the opening ceremony of the Boy Scouts of America’s 100th anniversary celebration overnight camp- out on the USS Midway Museum. roar and a big “hoo-yah” from the Vegas, Phoenix and Scottsdale. in America. In a world where things scouts. The event, which took two years are being taken away from us con- The parachutists swirled colored to organize, was a collaborative stantly, we still have the Boy Scouts smoke above San Diego as they effort between the BSA and the of America. We still have a place Photo by Lt. Lori Campbell made their way to the 25 by 100- USS Midway Museum, said Ran- where we can come and show them foot bow section of the ship for a dy Seefeldt, a scoutmaster and that they matter and that they mean Leap Frogs help Boy Scouts precision landing. the Midway Overnight Adventure something.” A sea of khaki shirts covered in chairperson. The Leap Frogs are based in San celebrate 100 years of scouting multi-colored patches waited ea- “I knew it would be a great expe- Diego and perform freefall para- gerly to shake hands with the Leap rience for the boys,” said Seefeldt. chuting demonstrations throughout BY MC2 MICHELLE KAPICA Naval Special Warfare Public Affairs carrier in Navy history to see the Frogs after they landed. “They love seeing high-adventure the United States to showcase Navy performance of the Leap Frogs “That was really cool,” said Zach- stuff. It was wonderful!” excellence. SAN DIEGO — The U.S. Navy during the opening ceremony of ary Dickman, a scout in BSA Troop Several members of the Leap The team is made up of elite war- parachute demonstration team, the scouts’ Midway Overnight Ad- 446 from Scottsdale, Ariz. Frogs also began their lives of ad- riors from Naval Special Warfare known as the Leap Frogs, parachut- venture. Like many of the scouts, it was venture with the Boy Scouts and (NSW), including U.S. Navy SEALs ed onto the USS Midway Museum There was an air of excitement as the first time Dickman had seen were proud to help inspire service (sea, air and land commandos), in San Diego Sept. 26 to help the the scouts prepared for the night’s the Leap Frogs perform and he among the young scouts. special warfare combatant-craft Boy Scouts of America (BSA) cele- activities, but as the Leap Frogs’ air- said it was the best part of his “It meant a lot to be in San Diego, crewmen and NSW parachute rig- brate 100 years of scouting. craft flew toward the ship, all noise day. jumping onto the USS Midway with gers. Nearly 800 scouts, scoutmasters and movement stopped momen- The event brought 30 scout the Boy Scouts of America,” said For more information about the and friends assembled on the flight tarily. As soon as the Leap Frogs troops together from San Diego James Woods, safety officer for the Navy Parachute Team, visit www. deck of the longest-serving aircraft exited the aircraft, there was a loud Imperial County, Los Angeles, Las Leap Frogs. “There are still values leapfrogs.navy.mil. New PNSY facility enhances fl eet support PRESS RELEASE Portsmouth Naval testing of hydrophones and Shipyard Public Affairs transducers for both subma- rines and surface ships,” said KITTERY, Maine — PNSY Commander, Capt. Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Robert Mazzone. “The collo- (PNSY), a Naval Sea Sys- cation of this new test facility tems Command (NAVSEA) with the repair facility will facility, celebrated the open- enable us to become more ing of its new Transducer cost effective in the refur- Test and Calibration Facility bishment of transducers and during a ribbon-cutting cere- hydrophones, and save our mony Sept. 25. Navy millions of dollars.” This state-of-the-art facili- In 2005, PNSY awarded ty provides the Navy with a a military construction con- fi rst-class acoustic test and tract for the Acoustic Test calibration facility for sonar and Calibration Facility to re- systems. Connecting the place the aging facility that Transducer Test and Cal- dated back to the mid 1970’s. ibration Facility with the The building houses a 1 mil- Transducer Repair Facility lion gallon acoustic test tank supports the shipyard’s mis- and attaches directly to the Chief Personnel Specialist Romel Agliam, Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Ross Wharton, and Chief Personnel Specialist sion of providing a unique Transducer Repair Facility, Gabriel Powers, assigned to Navy Recruiting Command, man their virtual battle stations during the Simulated Naval Warfare acoustic test platform capa- combining the production Competition sponsored by Navy Personnel Research, Studies and Technology (NPRST). The computer-based competition required participants to work together in order to take out enemy submarines in a simulated warfare environment. ble of performing complex areas with the engineering underwater acoustic testing and testing facilities. with added quality, reliability PNSY is one of NAVSEA’s Navy uses video games to and fl exibility. four public shipyards that “Portsmouth Naval Ship- maintain submarines and yard is the Navy’s facility systems that support the gather team dynamics research for the overhaul, repair and maritime strategy.

STORY AND PHOTO BY successful teams. “My partner and I were respon- MCC (SW) MARIA YAGER “The Navy works in teams, so the sible for flying the helicopters, and Naval Personnel Command Public Affairs Navy needs team research,” said we communicated through head- MILLINGTON, Tenn. — The re- Josh Cotton, personnel research phones in trying to coordinate how search arm of the Navy recognized psychologist from NPRST. to place the sensor buoys,” said two teams of Sailors Sept. 24 for their Before the competition, NPRST Agliam. victories in a Simulated Naval War- researchers completed personality Agliam and three of his team- fare Competition in Millington, Tenn. and cognitive ability type testing on mates from NRC placed second The computer-based competi- each participant. in the competition. The first-place tion, sponsored by Navy Personnel “Sitting through 45 minutes of team was from the Bureau of Naval Research, Studies and Technolo- getting asked questions about your Personnel. gy (NPRST), required participants personality was probably the hard- NPRST is an innovative, proac- to work as a team from their indi- est part of the competition,” said tive research facility composed of vidual stations and take out enemy Randy Brou, lead personnel re- four research institutes. Each insti- submarines in a simulated warfare search psychologist for the study. tute conducts research in their area environment. The profiles allowed research- of manpower and personnel devel- “It is a great day for the Navy ers to establish a baseline for each opment in order to improve Navy when we can combine research with team where they could then mea- processes. fun,” said Jacqueline Mottern, insti- sure interaction and team dynamics NPRST investigates, develops tute lead for the Navy’s Institute for during the gaming portion. and validates new technologies, Selection and Classification. “We were briefed on different methods and business processes While the Sailors enjoyed playing types of ways to find the subs, and to improve the readiness, perfor- the submarine hunting game, Navy basically what we had to do was mance and quality of life of Sailors Photo by Jeremy Lambert researchers were busy gathering try to find them and destroy them. and Marines. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead gets data on how the teams communi- It was a lot of fun,” said Chief Per- Currently NPRST is conducting hands-on experience in the operation of induction coating cated and interacted. The data will sonnel Specialist (SW/AW) Romel research projects to improve qual- removal equipment during a tour of Portsmouth Naval support a larger Navy study to pre- Agliam, assigned to Navy Recruit- ity of life and increase productivity Shipyard, from the Shipyard Commander, Capt. Robert dict successful team members and ing Command (NRC). in the detailing process. Mazzone and the Shipyard Plastics Fabricator Richard Beaudion. Photo by MC3 Jacob L. Dillon Vice Adm. Joseph Kernan, Senior Military Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, is pictured with participants of the Navy SEAL Fitness Challenge Oct. 3 at Grimsley High School in Greensboro, N.C. The Navy SEAL Fitness Challenge brings awareness about opportunities in the Naval Special Warfare community and promotes physical fitness as part of a healthy lifestyle. Navy SEALs visit Greensboro for community outreach

PRESS RELEASE more diverse we are the better. Diversity is Naval Special Warfare Group TWO of significant importance in the Navy. The GREENSBORO, NC — A Navy SEAL Navy should reflect the nation we live in,” motivating team, three East coast based Kernan said. Navy SEALs, and the U.S. Navy Parachute Retired Master Chief William H. Goines, Team, also known as the Leap Frogs, par- the very first African American Navy SEAL, ticipated in the Naval Special Warfare’s also was on hand for the weekend events in diversity outreach program Oct. 2-3 in Greensboro. Greensboro, N.C. “People know about SEALs through ad- SEALs spoke with students at local high vertisement, but we can tell them what is schools and put on a Navy SEAL Fitness expected. With active-duty SEALs here, we Challenge for the youths in the community. can answer any questions a kid might have,” A Leap Frog demonstration was also done said Goines, a graduate of Underwater De- at a local high school. molition Team Replacement Accession The weekend was highlighted when the (UDTRA) class 17 in 1957. Leap Frogs parachuted into Aggie Stadi- More than 200 kids participated in the um at North Carolina A&T State University SEAL challenge of a 500-yard swim, 1.5-mile and presented the game ball to Vice Adm. run, push-ups, sit-ups and pull-ups. SEALs Joseph Kernan, a Navy SEAL officer and also participated and encouraged the partic- Senior Military Assistant to the Secretary ipants throughout the entire challenge. of Defense, Harold L. Martin Sr., Chancel- “It really helps to be a good athlete to be a lor of North Carolina A&T State University, SEAL. Events like the fitness challenge help Photo by MC3 Jacob L. Dillon and Mel Watt, U.S. Representative of the find kids who could make it physically, and An East coast based Navy SEAL instructs a participant of the Navy SEAL Fitness Challenge 12th District of North Carolina, before the then we give them advice and make them on the correct way to do a push-up . historic rivalry game with North Carolina aware what opportunities are available,” Central University. said Goines. “The purpose of this program is to build “The event was a huge success and it awareness of Naval Special Warfare ca- was a great way to promote fitness and chal- reer opportunities,” said Capt. Adam Curtis lenge kids in a NSW environment,” Curtis (SEAL), Director of Naval Special Warfare said. Recruiting. “Anybody can be successful in this (NSW) Vice Admiral Kernan also pointed out the community. As a youth we are all exposed unique opportunity to engage in outreach to different opportunities. These events let with the Greensboro community. us expose the NSW community to different “We are taking the opportunity to build groups of people and let it be known that the future of the Navy and SEAL teams. there is an opportunity for them,” Kernan The NSW community will sell itself, but the said.

Photo by MC3 Jacob L. Dillon Photo by MC2 (PJ) Michelle Kapica A member of the U.S. Navy Parachute Team, also known as the Leap Frogs, lands at the 50- Navy Junior ROTC members begin a 1.5-mile run during a Navy SEAL Fitness Challenge held yard line of Aggie Stadium at North Carolina A&T State University in Greensboro, N.C. Oct. at Grimsley High School. Naval Special Warfare (NSW) operators hosted the event, which 3, during their annual game against North Carolina Central University. The Leap Frogs along included a 500-yard swim followed by push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups and the run, in an effort to with East Coast based Navy SEALs were promoting awareness of the merits of a career in promote fitness among Americans and to raise awareness about NSW programs. Naval Special Warfare.

Photo by MC3 Jacob L. Dillon Vice Adm. Joseph Kernan, Senior Military Advisor to the Secretary of Defense, hands game balls to Harold L. Martin, Sr., Chancellor of North Carolina A&T State University and U.S. Representative Mel Watt of the 12th District of North Carolina Photo by MC3 Jacob L. Dillon Oct. 3, during the opening ceremonies for the football game U.S. Navy SEALs from an East Coast based SEAL Team encourage area JROTC students as they compete in a pull up contest against rival North Carolina Central University. as part of the SEAL Fitness Challenge. NAVY MEDICINE

Naval Medical Center Portsmouth: Marine Corps veteran Corey Petersen, a paraplegic, Seasonal Flu Shots & Clinics enjoyed herself while surfi ng under the guidance of Lyn Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is rolling out seasonal flu shots and special Burich during the second weekend vaccine clinics for all TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries. Naval Medical National Veterans Summer Center Portsmouth and its branch clinics officially kick off the seasonal Sports Clinic held at La Jolla influenza vaccination program on Oct. 1. Shores. Photo by Howard Lipin / Union-Tribune - The San Deigo Union-Tribune Female Wounded Warriors overcome Walk-in fl u vaccines: Remember: you must make an appoint- injuries at VA Summer Sports Clinic Naval Medical Center Portsmouth ment; vaccines are not available on a Mon. - Fri. • 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. walk-in basis! BY MC2 (SW) SHANNON WARNER to her wheel chair after a snowmobile Navy Public Affairs Support Element West accident in 2007 left her paralyzed from Boone Branch Health Clinic Special Saturday walk-in fl u clinics: the waist down. Mon. - Fri. • 8 - 11 a.m. SAN DIEGO — Seven female ser- “One of the biggest challenges I have Tues. • 1 - 3 p.m. NMCP Immunization Clinic, vice members who suffered traumatic faced during my recovery is the absence Naval Medical Center Portsmouth injuries participated in the National Vet- of other women in the same situation to Oceana Branch Health Clinic & Oceana Branch Clinic, NAS Oceana erans Summer Sports Clinic hosted by relate to. There just aren’t as many of Mon. - Tues., Thurs. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct. 3 • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) us,” said Petersen. in San Diego Sept. 21–25. Petersen received training in field Sewells Point Branch Health Clinic NMCP Immunization Clinic, The clinic featured adaptive surfing, events from National Director for Veter- Mon. - Fri. • 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Naval Medical Center Portsmouth sailing, kayaking, cycling (hand and tan- ans Wheelchair Games Tom Brown. Oct. 17, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. dem), track and field events. “I got to surf yesterday for the first Appointment only fl u vaccines (call For some participants, the clinic was time. It was amazing,” said Petersen. 1-866-MIL-HLTH or 1-866-645- Boone Branch Clinic, the first time they had attempted any of “Today Tom is teaching me about field 4584): NAB Little Creek these events. events. This clinic was so good for me, Oct. 24, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Female service members face many because now I know there are so many TRICARE Prime Virginia Beach of the same challenges as their male more things out there I can do.” Nurse Clinic, 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Retiree Seminar, Rockwell Gym, counterparts during their treatment and According to the VA, 12 percent of NAB Little Creek & Oceana recovery and other challenges that are separated Operation Iraqi Freedom/ TRICARE Prime Chesapeake Branch Clinic, NAS Oceana very different. Operation Enduring Freedom veterans Nurse Clinic, 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Nov. 7, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. “I am a single mother of two. When who seek VA health care are women. I got hurt I had to depend on my chil- “Of the 1.8 million women veterans NMCP is pleased to offer the FluMist nasal-spray vaccine again to dren for help more than I ever wanted in the United States, more than 450,000 beneficiaries. Vaccination with FluMist is recommended for healthy men and to,” said Melissa Trotter, a former truck have enrolled for care,” explained Law- non-pregnant women age 2 to 49 years. The nasal-spray flu vaccine is made driver with the Army’s 454th Transpor- rence Deyton, M.D., the chief public with live, weakened flu viruses. FluMist has been shown to be 20 to 30 percent tation Company out of Columbus, Ohio. health and environmental hazards more effective than the injectable shot for preventing the flu in children. Trotter was medically retired after her officer for the VA’s Veterans Health Ad- The traditional flu shot injection will be given to children age 6 months to tibia was shattered when a tank hit her ministration. 2 years, adults 50 years and older, pregnant women and patients with chronic truck in Baghdad, Iraq. According to Deyton, the VA recog- medical conditions. Trotter participated with team Nau- nizes that a growing number of female tilus at the cycling event, using a hand veterans are choosing VA for their Benefi ciaries who want to get vaccinated in town: cycle to accommodate her injury. healthcare, and the VA is working to en- “Now, because of this clinic, I know sure female veterans receive the care An authorization is not required if the vaccine is given by a TRICARE-authorized there is a way I can actually go cycling they have earned through service to provider. The patient is recommended to ask (prior to receiving the vaccine) if the with my daughter. It will be nice to be their country. provider is TRICARE authorized. If they are not, the patient can call Healthnet Federal able to do that with her,” said Trotter. “It’s really easy to focus on what you Services at 1-877-TRICARE to fi nd an authorized provider. Courtney Petersen practiced throw- can’t do; this event lets us experience Some pharmacies are using network Convenient Care Clinic (CCC) providers to ing the javelin from her wheel chair at what is out there and available to us,” administer the vaccines, however, patients need to check the Olympic Training Center in Chula said Petersen. “It focused on what we whether the CCC is TRICARE authorized and not a separate fl u Vista, Calif., to prepare for the track and can do.” shot provider. If a patient goes to an urgent care facility for a fl u field event. For more news from Navy Public Af- vaccine, they may need an authorization if the facility bills it as a Petersen, a former Marine, is on team fairs Support Element West, visit www. new patient visit and vaccine. Mercury and still learning how to adapt navy.mil/local/pacensandiego/. MRAP All Terrain Vehicles (M-ATVs) arriving for C4I integration

BY LONNIE COWART MRAPs produced. gan said. “The goal was to the integration and field- variants. also provides engineering Public Affairs Offi cer, SPAWAR Since the Office of the push as much of that work ing of various Marine SSC Atlantic will uti- reachback for all capabili- Systems Center, Atlantic Secretary of Defense de- that was getting done at mobile radio communi- lize many members of the ty packages. N. CHARLESTON, S.C. termined the M-ATV is SPAWAR, particularly the cations and tactical data MRAP integration team SSC Atlantic Command- — The next generation of within the MRAP family touch labor, upstream into radio sets, sensors and from various engineering ing Officer Capt. Bruce Mine Resistant Ambush of vehicles, it will contin- the manufacturing pro- various signal intelligence disciplines, including in- Urbon said, “The MRAP Protected (MRAP) vehi- ue to be managed by the cess. Because we knew systems that enhance the dustrial and mechanical vehicles have resulted in cles, the MRAP All Terrain MRAP Joint Program Of- it going into this, we were warfighter’s situational engineering, technicians, the saving of many lives Vehicles (M-ATVs), are fice. The Marine Corps is able to include it into the awareness, communica- subject matter experts and limbs, and our in- now arriving at Space and executing the joint pro- design. That clearly is tions and other capabilities and support staff. SSC At- volvement in this program Naval Warfare (SPAWAR) gram on behalf of the one of the lessons learned on the battlefield. The lantic’s solid partnerships has been very rewarding. Systems Center (SSC) At- Navy (lead service) with from Baseline MRAP that team has demonstrated its with small- to mid-sized We look forward to con- lantic. As with the MRAP Marine Corps Brig. Gen. will speed the process at ability to meet a strict de- industry provide the agil- tinuing our role providing vehicles, SSC Atlan- Michael Brogan as the livery schedule on a high ity required to meet the direct support to the warf- tic is responsible for the Joint Program Executive volume of vehicles while demands associated with ighter by integrating prototyping, testing, inte- Officer. maintaining configu- a project of this magni- advanced electronic com- gration, installation and ration management tude. As with the MRAP munications equipment in quality assurance of all across multiple C4I effort, the M-ATV team the M-ATVs.” advanced electronic com- is responsible for every munications equipment aspect of the activities, on the M-ATVs. from engineering to re- SSC Atlantic has a prov- ceipt and final inspection en record of success in theater. SSC Atlantic with command and con- trol, communications, computer, intelligence (C4I) equipment integra- tion of MRAP vehicles. SSC Atlantic’s C4I Ex- peditionary Systems government/industry team has performed C4I integration of more than 16,000 MRAP vehicles since 2007. The high- ly successful MRAP integration ramp up at SSC Atlantic attracted visitors from through- out the Department of Defense, including Sec- retary of Defense Robert Gates, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Marine Corps Gen. James Cartwright, then-Secre- tary of the Navy Donald Accord- Winter, Chief of Naval ing to Brogan, lessons Charleston,” Photo by Joe Bullinger Operations Adm. Gary learned during the MRAP he added. M-ATV vehicles have begun arriving at SSC Atlantic for the Roughead and others. integration efforts in The SSC prototyping, testing, integration, installation and quality The M-ATVs are man- Charleston have been Atlantic team has ex- assurance of advanced electronic communications equipment. ufactured by Oshkosh valuable in speeding the tensive experience in The fi rst shipment of integrated vehicles has been fl own to Corporation, which was manufacture, prototyp- warfi ghters in Afghanistan this week. awarded the production ing and installation of the contract June 30. More government furnished than 6,600 M-ATVs are equipment (GFE) that currently authorized. provides C4I capabilities The M-ATV answers an on the M-ATVs. One of urgent and compelling the lessons learned will requirement to protect help the vendor better warfighters with a high- prepare the vehicles for ly survivable, off-road the GFE added at SSC At- capable vehicle. The M- lantic. “… We were able to ATV mission is for small feed back to Oshkosh spe- unit combat operations cific bracketry, racks and in highly restricted rural, cabling so all that can be mountainous and urban installed in the vehicle dur- environments that in- ing manufacture; which clude mounted patrols, means we don’t have to reconnaissance, securi- do it at SPAWAR,” Bro- ty, convoy protection and communications. The vehicles have start- ed to flow from the vendor to SSC Atlantic. The first shipment of integrated ve- hicles has been flown to warfighters in Afghani- stan. These vehicles will be used to complement other tactical vehicles – including MRAPs – cur- rently being used. The lack of established roads and bridges in the Afghan- istan theater of operations requires a more mobile vehicle than the previous Navy moves to meet information age challenges

BY GERRY J. GILMORE American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON — The Navy is merging its information technology, intelligence and communications oper- ations into one organization to better address Information Age challenges, in- cluding threats to computer networks, the Navy’s top officer said here Oct. 2. “If we as a Navy are to remain dominant in this Information Age or Cyber Age, or whatever moniker you choose to put on it, I think that we have to take advantage of the new opportunities that exist, such as the vast stores of collected data -infor- mation and intelligence that often lie at rest, unrecoverable, unavailable and un- tapped,” Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations, said during remarks at a Center for Strategic and International Studies-sponsored event at the Wash- ington Hilton Hotel. Because the Navy must capitalize on its ability to access, filter, analyze and then disseminate information to warf- ighting commanders for action in real time, Roughead said, it’s consolidating Photo by MC1 Tiffi ni Jones Vanderwyst its intelligence directorate, communica- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Gary Roughead delivers remarks for “Information Dominance: The Navy’s Initiative to Maintain the tions networks and related information Competitive Advantage In The Information Age” at the Center for Strategic & International Studies. technology capabilities to form a sin- gle new organization: the deputy chief Department and the military services said. Military members will retain their continued, involves systems that can rap- of naval operations for information dom- to integrate the different information current branches and skill ratings, he idly “fuse, synthesize and make sense inance. technology and communications ele- added. of this tremendous volume of data” by The reorganization is slated for com- ments “from exploitation to defense,” to The consolidation of information tech- overlaying or sorting it according to the pletion by year’s end. achieve unity of effort. nology, communications, intelligence category of intelligence, such as techni- The Navy also is standing up Fleet Today’s Navy requires “uninhibited and other assets moves away from the cal- or human-based. Cyber Command, Roughead said, to access to assured communication ca- Navy’s tradition of stove-piped organiza- “That overlaying then provides clarity be operated by the reconstituted U.S. pabilities in cyberspace” to operate, tions, Roughead said, which “have really and leads to operations against adversar- 10th Fleet. The 10th Fleet was involved Roughead said. However, he added, caused us to sub-optimize our ability to ies, insurgents, terrorists,” Dorsett said, in efforts to thwart enemy submarines ever-present online saboteurs with aggregate combat capability and the noting the system has been “very, very during World War II. The Air Force and various allegiances and intent make cy- movement of information in ways that successful” over the past few years. Army also are standing up organizations berspace a daily battlefield. can maximize the effectiveness of a The Navy is working with other that focus on information operations and “We must be prepared to operate in cy- fleet, of a unit or of an individual.” agencies to apply these proven infor- network security. berspace when it’s denied, and then we Military officials have found that new mation-technology tools in the maritime Fleet Cyber Command will be a sub- must also be able to deny space when technology has mitigated concerns that security environment, Dorsett said. ordinate unit to U.S. Cyber Command, it’s required or when it’s appropriate,” battlefield data collected by unmanned “We are using the Navy’s intel- the formation of which was directed by Roughead said. aerial vehicles and other methods in ligence structure and the Navy’s Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates on People are key in cyberspace, overseas combat zones would be over- oceanographers, overlaying informa- June 23. Roughead said, and that’s why the Navy whelming to commanders, Navy Vice tion concerning how pirates operate Cyberspace presents “a huge poten- is moving its information technology, Adm. David J. Dorsett, director of naval – trends, activities, etcetera – with what tial vulnerability for us because of our intelligence, information warfare, ocean- intelligence, told reporters at the Hilton the weather looks like over a period of dependence on the electronic world for ography and space cadre specialists into after Roughead’s speech. time,” Dorsett said. That information, communications - for everything we a new Information Dominance Corps. U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, he added, is shared with U.S. partners do,” Gates said during a Sept. 16 speech Now numbering about 44,000 officers, Dorsett said, have successfully em- to determine where anti-pirate forces at the Air Force Association conference enlisted members and civilians, the ployed a series of tools that “enabled need to operate. at the National Harbor in Maryland. It is corps is slated to add 1,000 trained tech- operational commanders, down to the “And, what we’ve seen is fairly sig- important, Gates said, for the Defense nicians in the near future, Roughead brigade and, in several cases, the battal- nificant successes in putting forces in ion and that type of level, to get large the right place -- really over the last few quantities of information.” weeks – to counter pirates in their at- Another aspect of this tool set, Dorsett tempts to hijack ships,” Dorsett said. NASHVILLE: After 39 years of service, Observing Domestic Violence USS Nashville (LPD 13) was decommissioned Awareness month in October Continued from page A1 PRESS RELEASE Through counseling, however, adults Navy Installations Command Public Affairs can learn to treat their partners with ipated in operations Desert WASHINGTON — The Navy is ob- compassion and respect and avoid ma- Storm, Desert Shield, Iraqi serving Domestic Violence Awareness nipulation and criticism, even during Freedom and Enduring Month in October as an opportunity to arguments. Freedom as well as playing inform Sailors and Navy spouses about Professional services of licensed a part in two evacuations domestic violence prevention efforts as counselors are available free of charge of American citizens from well as reporting options for victims. at Fleet and Family Support Centers. Lebanon (1982 and 2006). Domestic violence cuts across all age These are available to active duty and The ship was christened groups and social classes. It happens their family members – even Sailors and sponsored by Roy L. to Sailors as well as spouses; to men as who are unmarried can have couple’s Johnson. Her granddaugh- well as women. counseling with their partners. ter, Kathryn Coombs, Domestic violence goes beyond phys- A variety of courses that teach healthy represented her family at ical abuse. It includes emotional abuse relationship skills are also available Nashville’s decommission- such as threats, isolation, extreme jeal- at Fleet and Family Support Centers. ing ceremony and brought ousy and humiliation. It also includes These include anger management and with her the original invita- sexual abuse. Whenever an adult is conflict resolution. These are also free tion to the commissioning placed in physical danger or controlled and available to both active duty mili- ceremony, the champagne by threat or use of physical force by tary and spouses. bottle that christened their spouse or intimate partner, she or “These services are available because Nashville and the press he has been abused. The risk for abuse the Navy believes so strongly in the im- clippings from the com- Photo by MC2 (AW/SW) Gina Wollman is greatest when victims are separated portance of the prevention of abusive missioning that has been Kathryn Coombs, Granddaughter of USS Nashville (LPD from supportive networks. behavior,” Turner said. handed down through her 13)’s original sponsor, shows Officer-in-Charge Cmdr. The theme for Domestic Violence Turner has a simple message to those family for just this day. Brian Peterson and Public Affairs Officer Lt. Lydia E. Bock, Awareness Month this year is, “Have who are considering asking for help. “The Nashville has al- memorabilia from the ship’s christening in 1967 following the you crossed the line? End domestic vio- Don’t wait. ways been special to our decommissioning ceremony of Nashville. lence before it starts.” “Sailors who succeed with their ca- family,” said Coombs. emony. “This is a very byes were said, Nashville “Our goal is to prevent domestic vio- reers and their families have the “When you sponsor a sentimental moment … stands ready to be towed lence by encouraging people to examine strength to ask for help before a prob- ship, you take a certain seeing the ceremony and to the Naval Inactive their own behavior and take steps to lem gets out of hand,” Turner said. amount of interest in it.” seeing all these guys Ships Maintenance Facili- learn and practice more healthy behav- “The Navy knows this, which is why Coombs has followed in their fabulous dress ty in Philadelphia and will iors,” Kathy Turner, of the Fleet and they provide places to get help.” Nashville’s deployments whites … it brings my join the fleet of ready-re- Family Support Program’s Counseling Help is also available for victims of over the years, and was grandparents back.” serve ships standing by Advocacy and Prevention Program, said. domestic abuse. emotional about being at At the conclusion of the in case it is called back to Much is misunderstood about what There are two types of reporting the decommissioning cer- ceremony, after all good- service. happens when a Sailor or spouse seeks options, restricted and unrestricted. Re- help for their relationship before do- stricted reports do not involve military mestic violence occurs. All couples chain of command or law enforcement. have arguments. Making an appoint- Unrestricted reports will include some PACIFIC: FEMA officials ask DoD to provide ment for couple’s counseling does not type of investigation by command and automatically result in the creation of or law enforcement. Both options make a Family Advocacy Program, or FAP, available to victims the full range of medical triage, hazardous material response case. Nor does family or couple’s coun- advocacy, medical and counseling ser- seling harm one’s career or security vices. Continued from page A1 and worked through the wanted to do anything and clearance. Speak with a counselor of victim advo- night transporting people to everything I could do to help The Defense Department changed cate at a local Fleet and Family Support thousands of people, and the schools, churches and evac- the Filipino people. I was the question on its long-standing se- Center or a healthcare provider at a mil- most recent reports indicate uation shelters. The teams glad I could be a part of the curity clearance form referencing an itary treatment facility about restricted that nearly 100,000 people also helped to rescue a wom- rescue efforts.” applicant’s mental health history. As of and unrestricted reporting options for have been relocated, accord- an in labor who was stranded Local officials praised the 2008, Standard Form 86, the Question- domestic violence. If you think you ing to Philippines Disaster in a flooded-out house. response. “The work the naire for National Security Positions no may be a victim of domestic violence, Management Services. In addition, task force U.S. military did was ter- longer asks for mental health treatment contact the National Domestic Violence Members of Navy SEAL teams delivered 500 rific,” said Roman Romulo, details if the care involved only marital, Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or visit your teams and Naval Special pounds of food to a high Pasig City congressman. “I family, or grief counseling, not related installation Fleet and Family Support Boat Teams 12 and 20, and school Sept. 27 and con- was very thankful for U.S. to violence by the applicant, unless the Center for information on available re- U.S. medical troops attached tracted a civilian helicopter support. Your teams were treatment was court-ordered. sources. to the Philippines task force the following day to deliver able to successfully go to Another myth is that counseling is For more news from Commander, Navy responded, working with 4,200 pounds of food and Santa Lucia High School to only sought by people who have been Installations Command, visit www.navy. the island nation’s military water in Cainta, northeast help deliver food. It was a big arrested or are filing for divorce. mil/local/cni/. and government officials to of Pasig city. boost that your people were rescue people from rooftops, “These people lost their helping us.” deliver food and distribute houses [and] cars and might American Samoa is the medical supplies, officials re- still be looking for family only U.S. possession in the ported. members,” said Navy Petty southern hemisphere. It is Joint special operations Officer 2nd Class Jonathan slightly larger than Wash- task force rescue teams Porter, a joint special opera- ington, D.C., covering 76.2 launched two F-470 Zodi- tions task force medic who square miles, and has about ac boats in the flood waters provided medical care. “I 57,000 citizens. SECTION B FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM October 8, 2009 Special Boat Teams 12, 20 assist fl ood victims

BY LT.J.G. THERESA DONNELLY Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — Members of Joint Spe- cial Operations Task Force- Philippines (LSOTF- P) assisted the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) with the rescue of 52 people affected by massive fl ooding during Tropical Storm Ondoy, (known as in- ternationally as Ketsana) in Cainta, Metro Manila, Sept. 27-28. Members of Navy SEAL teams and Naval Special Boat Teams 12 and 20, and U.S. medical person- nel attached to JSOTF-P took part. They worked directly with AFP and the Philippines National Disas- ter Coordinating Council, rescuing people from roof- tops, delivering food, and giving out medical sup- Photo by MC2 William Ramsey plies. Sailors working with Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines rescue Manila residents after fl ooding destroyed homes and displaced thousands of Rescue teams from people. Two boats assisted more than 52 people, including a woman in labor, elderly residents and children. JSOTF-P launched two F470 through the night trans- shelters. Teams also as- labor, stranded in a fl ooded- houses, cars and might anything and everything Zodiac boats in the fl ood wa- porting people to schools, sisted with the rescue of a out house. still be looking for family ters of Cainta and worked churches, and evacuation pregnant Filipino woman in “These people lost their members. I wanted to do See RESCUE, B9

Cole Sailors provide civil maritime support USS Bush’s

BY MC2 KATRINA PARKER fi rst bone Destroyer Squadron 24 Public Affairs marrow drive USS COLE — Sailors of the guided missile destroyer USS Cole BY MC3 BRIAN M. BROOKS (DDG 67) encountered a unique USS George H. W. Bush training opportunity Sept. 29 while Public Affairs transiting the Atlantic Ocean en route to a multi-national exercise NEWPORT NEWS — in the United Kingdom. USS George H.W. Bush Watchstanders identifi ed a ves- (CVN 77), the Navy’s new- sel drifting through the ocean, est aircraft carrier, hosted a notifi ed their chain of command, drive for Sailors to become and boarded the adrift sailboat. screened as potential bone In addition to informing the marrow donors Sept. 24-28. embarked Destroyer Squadron A total of 945 Sailors were (DESRON) 24 commander and his screened for the national staff, the crew reported the sight- bone marrow registry at ing to U.S. Second Fleet and Sixth the conclusion of the drive, Fleet Maritime Operations Centers which was the fi rst in the and the U.S. Coast Guard. ship’s history. Coordination between the Navy According to Senior Chief and Coast Guard ensued, which Hospital Corpsman (SW/ determined that the owner of the AW/FMF) Patricia L. Har- vessel had already been rescued at rington, the ship plans on sea July 14 by the U.S. Coast Guard making the bone marrow and was requesting assistance in drive an annual event in or- recovering his personal effects on Photo by MC3 Matthew Bookwalte der to register new Sailors Sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) prepare to board an abandoned sailboat found the boat. drifting in the Atlantic Ocean. Cole is scheduled to participate in Exercise Joint Warrior 09-2, designed to improve who will check in over the Upon direction by the Second interoperability between allied navies as well as to prepare for a role in combined operations during upcoming course of the next year. Fleet MOC, Cole’s visit, board, deployments. “Being registered as a search and seizure (VBSS) team donor is important to me boarded a rigid hull infl atable boat turned via mail during Cole’s next marked the vessel adrift to indicate Cmdr. Edward Devinney praised because my father-in-law (RHIB) and maneuvered to the port visit. it is an unsafe and abandoned ves- his crew for their quick response. recently had a liver trans- drifting boat to collect its owner’s As directed by the U.S. Coast sel. plant and without it, he personal effects, which will be re- Guard, Cole VBSS members Cole’s Commanding Offi cer See COLE, B9 would probably not be with my family today,” Culi- nary Specialist 1st Class Michael Brinkman said Training Support Vessel supports maritime strategy capabilities after being screened. “I know that being a donor BY LT. MICHAEL WIDMANN Strike Forces Training Atlantic Public Affairs may give someone else that The USS Prevail (TSV-1) chance to still be with their NORFOLK — The Navy’s fi rst training support vessel, is used by Naval forces loved ones.” TSV-1 Prevail, completed its American Bureau of Shipping to conduct important The registration drive (ABS) mandated 5-year docking inspection recently, at Col- training for Sailors was not an actual dona- onna’s Shipyard in Norfolk. such as Visit, Board, tion process, but rather a Search and Seizure and The availability was scheduled for 30 days and was com- screening process involv- Maritime Interdiction pleted on budget. Operations. ing a buccal (cheek) swab. Prevail is utilized by Commander, Strike Forces Train- The samples will fi rst be ing Atlantic (CSFTL) during training exercises. It plays tested for their human leu- the role of opposition forces allowing Strike Groups to prac- kocyte antigen (HLA) type tice skills such as Maritime Interdiction Operation (MIO) an and after being genetical- ly coded, the information See PREVAIL, B9 about the member’s HLA type is entered into a na- tional database of donors. USS George H.W. Bush Commanding Offi cer, Capt. DeWolfe H. Miller III, was one of the fi rst crew mem- bers to participate in the bone marrow drive, and he described to the crew over the ship’s intercom sys- tem how satisfying it was

Photo by MC2 Jason R. Zelasky See BONE, B9 HOMEFRONT NEWS 42nd Annual Phoebus Days TIP Celebrate a return to simpler times at the 42nd annual Phoe- of the week bus Days celebration, taking place in the town of Phoebus in SPOUSE h Hampton! Find out why this community has established itself as one of the most unique “small towns” in all of Hampton Roads. Don’t miss the annual sidewalk sale featuring both local merchants and re- Everyone has some comic reality gional vendors. Other festivities include a Betty Casciano window decorating con- test, live music, food vendors, children’s activities, the annual Freddie Doughtery to look back and laugh about pie-eating contest, belly dancing, performances by Zumba the Panamanian Folk- loric Dance Group, Mambo Room Latin Dance Group, Gospel Americana and live BY LINDA PORT him. That was the fi rst score in the win col- displays provided by the Peninsula Caged Bird Society. Musical entertainment for Continuum of Resource Education the weekend will take place on two stages: The Family Fun Stage (located at Mellen (C.O.R.E.) CMC Spouse Committee member umn for the kids, and my time for realization and a new, more sophisticated game plan. Street and Curry Street) and the Main Stage (located in the parking area at Mellen I disagree with the saying “Reality sets He is 22 now and still thinks back with his Street and Hope Street). in.” Reality always comes fi rst. Realization sister in disbelief that I would be so sneaky. is what sets in. Relief comes later. I try to It’s a good laugh for all. Admission: Free take my life with a little less reactive intensi- Just after our daughter turned six, her Event Date: Saturday, Oct. 10 • 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. ty than I used to. Let’s face it; stuff happens. third little brother was born. She was always Event location: Phoebus, 21 E. Mellen St., Hampton VA, 23663 Of course serious life and death or health is- a bit of a mother hen to them and they would For more information, contact Jim Turner at 727-0808 or visit www.phoebusdays.com. sues certainly call for whatever immediate look to her for direction or help. She was actions and emotions are necessary. But happy to fi ll that role. She tended to boss I totally acknowledge the kitchen as a num- thought this was a perfect time to “clock out” when it comes to the everyday trials and them around a bit and they just accepted it. ber one household priority, especially with a and told him so before I left the house by tribulations of life, it can help to face things I kept her from power tripping too much, big family. But getting the kids enrolled in myself for an hour or two to just explore the with the basic acknowledgement that “This but it worked quite well for me, and I was school is pretty high up there on the list, too. base and Navy Exchange. I think we both too shall pass.” not about to break the spell. It wasn’t un- So if we needed to sample the local cuisine had some pretty strong realizations that day. When they were little, my kids thought til they each turned fi ve or so that it dawned for an extra day so I could get four kids en- Some, of which, we actually discussed after the white truck that rode slowly through the on them “Hey, she’s not mom; I don’t really rolled in three different schools, I was okay a day or so of decompressing. Of course, neighborhood playing carnival music in the have to listen to her.” Smarty pants realized with that. When I came home from the fun the relief came and we settled in like always. summer was the fi sh truck. Really - I’m not earlier than the other two, but to this day of this joyful task (with kids in tow) to fi nd Plus, I got the added enjoyment of sharing kidding. They thought this because that’s they still listen to what she tells them to do. him home early from his new offi ce, having the story with my friends. To his credit, the what I told them. And, I got away with it for a I don’t think my kids ever realized what a unpacked the kitchen without the requisite unpacking was, at least, a productive thing long time too, until my smarty pants, second vacation was. We had permanent change of shelf paper, I was not a happy girl. He was whereas my snarky comments however child broke rank and snuck station orders all too often. We just tacked looking for the all important coffee pot and whimsical I found them, not so much. off, when family visits and adventurous travel onto our just ran with it. Note to self: the coffee pot Stress does different things to each of us. he was moves so they never felt deprived or knew goes into the car for all future moves. He relieves stress by putting his world in or- any different. They thought it was weird I kept my cool but he realized that we der and I by offering up sarcastic comments when neighbors would pack up their car needed to go out right then and get the shelf to lighten the mood. Unfortunately, what for a trip and then come back to the paper, and that he would now be helping we were doing to relieve our own stress hap- same place. Of course, I me install it. It’s not fun to install shelf pa- pened to be something that triggered the agreed with them. per three stores and two hours later, plus stress of the other. It’s amazing how clear No matter how or- dinner at Mickey Ds. Let alone, when you things can be in retrospect once we are not ganized you might must remove everything shelf by shelf to do in the moment and can consider the bigger be, and I am sorely it. I’ll just skim past all the questions I had picture. But, it is fun to look back and re- under qualifi ed over why some things were placed where member the comical side. to comment on they were. Then there’s the measuring and I am sure everyone has some comic reali- that topic, mov- the stickum stuff on the back; take my ad- ty to look back and laugh about. ing is disruptive. vice, skip the peel off kind and get the lightly Although I lack tacky rolls with the grid printed on them. Linda Port has been an active Navy any consistent plans for Somewhere about three shelves into the spouse for most of her husband’s 23-year setting up shop in a new job, I could see he was getting edgy and I career. Together, she and her husband have house, I am adamant that couldn’t resist mentioning how much more raised four children as they moved around there be shelf paper lining fun this was to do after unpacking versus be- the United States. Involvement with com- the cabinets and drawers. I fore. I guess that was his limit. I could see mands and helping to share information don’t know why but it’s one he was reigning in his frustration when he with other Navy spouses has always been of the few things I stand my just stood up and calmly said “You know, a main focus. With a daughter who is also ground over. It’s a control thing, I there is a lot of other stuff I need to be doing a Navy wife, two sons on active duty, and have so little of that after all. right now and you are just going to have to a high school senior who plans to enter the After twelve previous moves my Sailor do this on your own time.” To everyone out Navy next year, she hopes to pass along six, to cross the street by himself and fi nd decided to blow off my request to delay un- there whose jaw has dropped and then you whatever experiences she has had that may out if the rumors were true. One of his bud- packing the kitchen until after we took care made the oooooh sound, yes, he really said help smooth the way for the next generation dies ratted me out and spilled the beans. I of this task. Suddenly we had a situation. that. My girlfriend refers to it as “Caveman of military families. Linda’s husband, Jon, think I successfully faked them out with my We all prioritize things in our heads in our Mode” and my sister asked if I helped him has been CMC to HM-15 in Corpus Chris- stunned, surprised act when he ran home own way and that’s fi ne. We just have to real- pull his foot out of his mouth or rather just ti, Texas, the commissioning CMC to USS with glee to share the revelation that the ize that there are completely different things crammed it a little farther down his throat. George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and is cur- “Fish Guy” sells ice cream also. This was going on inside our spouse’s heads than in My own time. What a novel concept. I rently serving as CMC to NETC N7 here more of an epiphany than a realization for our own. had never considered such a thing before. I in Norfolk.

complete all questions. Be sure to sign in the prop- er place and provide your correct address. Please in- FamilyF cus clude your correct work address (not just Build- ing KN, but 1682 Piersey Street). Include your rank and branch as well. None of this information is used Federal Survey Cards and you except by your school dis- BY ALLISON trict. Your confi dentiality FOSTER, PH.D. cannot pay real estate tax- • Have a parent in the will not be breached. School Liaison Offi cer, es. Property taxes are the military If your children attend Naval Station Norfolk main source of funding • Are Native American Norfolk Public Schools, for schools. Impact Aid • Live on federal prop- the Federal Survey Cards Every fall school sys- provides money to school erty, including an Indian will arrive in your child’s tems across the United systems to help compen- reservation, or in public backpack Oct. 12. States send home what is sate them for this loss of housing For elementary students referred to as Federal Sur- tax dollars. • Have a parent who the cards must be returned vey Cards. Impact Aid disburses ap- works on federal property by Oct. 20. For middle and These cards are ex- proximately $1.3 billion School districts are el- high school students the tremely valuable to local annually in unrestricted igible to receive Basic cards are due Oct. 27. school systems and it is federal funds directly to lo- Support payments if at If your child attends very important that they cal school districts rather least 400 hundred of their school in Virginia Beach are completed correctly. than through state agen- students or at least three the cards will come home Impact Aid is a federal cies. percent of their enrollment Oct. 12. Elementary and program that is designed Impact Aid Basic is federally connected. Renaissance Academy to compensate local school Support payments are dis- In addition, Impact Aid Federal Survey Cards are districts for tax-exempt tributed to school districts provides additional pay- due Nov. 2. Middle and military presence in their through a formula based ments to school districts high schools’ cards are area. on the number of students that educate children with due Nov. 9. School districts lose rev- who meet certain “federal disabilities who are also Your child’s school dis- enue when military bases connection” qualifi cations. federally connected. trict will benefi t from your are built on federal prop- Federally connected stu- When the Federal Sur- participation, and your erty because the bases dents include those who: vey Cards arrive please child will benefi t as well. Photo by MC2 Mandy Hunsucker USS Cole prepares for Exercise Joint Warrior 2009 BY MC2 KATRINA PARKER Destroyer Squadron 24 Public Affairs USS COLE — The crew aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) is conducting around-the-clock training to pre- pare for Exercise Joint Warrior 2009, which will qualify the ship for their next deployment. Joint Warrior is a U.K-led mul- tiwarfare exercise designed to improve interoperability be- tween allied navies and prepare participating crews to conduct combined operations during de- ployments. The exercise, which is sched- uled from Oct. 3-16, promotes Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet’s three focus areas: conducting safe and effective fl eet operations to achieve mission, providing ready maritime forces for global Photo by MC3 Matthew Bookwalter assignment, and teaming with al- Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) use chocks and chains to secure an SH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Vipers lies and partners in execution of of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 48 to the deck during fl ight quarters. the maritime strategy. Cole has been training since become a cohesive team,” said react to small attack vessels, con- such a short amount of time,” said the crew to thank them for the May, initially learning NATO Operations Specialist 2nd Class duct boarding operations, defend Tejeda. “It’s a great way for the effort they have shown in prepa- policies and building charts, (SW) Harrold Tejeda, from the merchant shipping traffi c, and crew to observe and be involved ration for the exercise. templates, and overlays for nav- Dominican Republic. maintain control of the air space with these real-life situations.” “You continue to do well as we igation, air space and operation “The training we are doing now in the maritime environment dur- Tejeda said the junior enlisted conduct our trans-Atlantic cross- areas. The entire crew is pull- and the exercise we are preparing ing our real-life operations.” crew members are very willing to ing. The ship has done so well ing together to ensure the ship is for will help us with our upcom- Joint Warrior also allows crew learn and look forward to taking and you have worked so well as ready to react to whatever scenar- ing deployment,” said Cole’s members to earn qualifi cations advantage of all the operations a team.” ios they will encounter during the Assistant Operations Offi cer before deployment. the exercise has to offer. For more news from U.S. 2nd exercise. Chief Warrant Offi cer Bryan Beg- “During this exercise there will Destroyer Squadron 24 Commo- Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/ “Right now we are training to ley. “We are training on how to be a lot of activities going on in dore Capt. John Kersh addressed c2f. Commander, U.S. Second Fleet visits USS Wasp

BY MC2 (SW) crew, and I had no doubt Williams also discussed speech said they were CHRISTOPHER KOONS that you would make it the public’s perception encouraged by his recog- USS Wasp Public Affairs happen.” of the Navy, and how it nition of their hard work in Williams also talked about has grown more positive support of the Navy’s mis- NORFOLK — Vice how the approximately since he joined up right af- sion. Adm. Mel Williams Jr., 90,000 Sailors and Marines ter the end of the Vietnam “It made us feel that he Commander, U.S. Second who comprise Second Fleet War. appreciates everything that Fleet, visited USS Wasp must be ready to deploy “I can see the differ- we do, and I am grateful for (LHD 1), recently, taking to almost anywhere in the ence in people’s attitudes,” that,” said Aviation Admin- time to personally thank world in support of the na- he said. “They can now istrationman Airman John the ship’s crew for all of the Photo by MC3 David Smart tion’s vital interests. see that we are serving in Peak. hard work they put in to Vice Adm. Mel Williams Jr., Commander, U.S. Second Fleet, “When you are under- an honorable profession “His speech let us know making sure Wasp is ready addresses the crew of the amphibious assault-ship USS Wasp way, you engage with our whose purpose is to de- that when we get under- to get underway. (LHD 1) during an all-hands call. Wasp is preparing for a surge allies and partners, includ- fend the nation’s freedom. way, we are doing a job that “I want to let you know deployment the Fourth Fleet area of operations. ing other services such as Someone has to do it, and is important to the nation,” that, from a fellow sea-go- Williams told the crew dur- tions on certifying Wasp the Coast Guard, to uphold that job falls to us.” added Aviation Electron- ing Sailor, I am thankful ing a speech on Wasp’s for deployment. What tru- the rule of law,” said Wil- Some of the junior Sailors ics Technician 3rd Class for everything you do,” fl ight deck. “Congratula- ly brings a ship to life is its liams. who listened to Williams’ Lamonte Stanfi eld. Maritime Civil Affairs and Security Training forged from two commands BY MC3 JOHN SUITS ernmental organizations Navy Public Affairs Support and the civilian populace. Element-East Along with MCAG, ETC has also deployed Sailors Two maritime operational worldwide, but with a focus commands, Maritime Civ- on military-to-military train- il Affairs Group (MCAG) ing. Mobile Training Teams and Expeditionary Train- (MTTs) deployed for two- to ing Command (ETC), came six-week training missions together Oct. 1 to become around the world. With the Maritime Civil Affairs and creation of MCAST, former Security Training (MCAST) ETC Sailors will continue Command. as security force assistance Capt. Claudia Risner, for- (SFA) MTTs and train mer Commander, MCAG, partner nations in naval assumed command of construction, maritime se- MCAST and remarked on curity, ordnance disposal the history and creation of and diving and salvage mis- Maritime Civil Affairs. sions. “From day one, our mis- “It was a great oppor- sion has been ‘deploy, stand tunity to command ETC up and train-as-you-go’”, Sailors,” said current said Risner. “It took a num- MCAST SFA operations ber of individual thinkers offi cer Lt. Cmdr. Scott Cha- Photos by MC3 John Suits with guidance and a passion fi an. “I got to work with Rear Adm. Carol Pottenger, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), salutes as sideboys pipe her for civil affairs to deploy Sailors with no background aboard during the merger ceremony of Maritime Civil Affairs Group (MCAG) and Expeditionary Training Command (ETC). The with minimal training and in security. We established commands became the Maritime Civil Affairs and Security Training (MCAST) Command, Oct. 1, at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek. successfully perform the the procedures for conduct- mission. We fl ew the plane ing a conventional force in Combined Task Force 151 nary Sailors,” said Risner. Pottenger challenged tenger said. “Stand tall and as it was being built, and we Navy security assistance.” in the Horn of Africa, Joint “Today, we merge two forc- MCAST Sailors to look to- be proud. You have made a didn’t crash.” Sailors have participated Special Operations Task es and two commands to ward the future and make a difference to our nation’s Since MCAG’s commis- in such missions as South- Force in the Philippines become one.” difference in the world. security and helped peo- sioning in 2006, Sailors have ern Partnership Station and Joint Task Force Bravo Alongside Risner dur- “Prevent and deter. That’s ple from different countries conducted civil-military op- and Continuing Promise in in Central America. ing the ceremony was what we’re all about,” Pot- live a better life.” erations and established South America, Africa Part- “Each command has built Commander, Navy Expedi- and enhanced relations nership Station and Pacifi c an outstanding reputation tionary Combat Command, between military forces, Partnership. Today, Sailors by the accomplishments Rear Adm. Carol Pot- governmental and non-gov- are currently supporting achieved by our extraordi- tenger.

Capt. Claudia Risner, commanding offi cer of Maritime Civil Affairs and Security Training (MCAST) Command speaks to Sailors during the merger ceremony. MCAST is responsible Rear Adm. Carol Pottenger, Commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), speaks to Sailors during the merger for the deployment to several nations worldwide conducting ceremony. maritime security operations. Sailors ‘Man the Rails’ of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) as the ship gets underway. Wasp will be conducting operations and exercises in the 4th Fleet area of responsibility. USS Wasp deploys for Southern Partnership Station

PRESS RELEASE Command area of focus as between U.S. and partner USS Wasp (LHD 1) Public Affairs part of Southern Partnership nation naval forces through Station (SPS). a variety of exercises, theater ATLANTIC OCEAN The crew of approximately security cooperations (TSC), — The multipurpose am- 1,100 Sailors and 365 em- military-to-military engage- phibious assault ship USS barked Marines will work ments, and other positive Wasp (LHD 1) departed Na- alongside Mayport-based De- engagement opportunities. val Station Norfolk, Oct. 4, stroyer Squadron Four Zero “Having this opportuni- for a three month deploy- to build and instill interop- ty to show what WASP is all ment to U.S. Naval Southern erability and cooperation about is important on a num- ber of levels,” said WASP Commanding Offi cer, Capt. Lowell D. Crow. “We’ve trained hard, we’ve worked hard in preparing, and now it’s time to let it show. I’m proud of the work that we’ve accomplished in such a short period of time, and I’m excit- ed at the prospects we have ahead of us with this deploy- ment.” The WASP-SPS mission is to continue to strength- en U.S. and 4th Fleet’s commitment to the region by fostering partnerships, building relationships and improving partner nation ca- pabilities. “I have no doubt in my mind that it will be a success, and that once again we’re going to exceed the expec- tations that have been set,” said Crow. “The sense of pride and accomplishment is apparent throughout the ranks of the crew, and mix- Photos by MC1 (SW/AW) Andrew J. McCord ing that with anticipation USS Wasp (LHD 1) Dental Offi cer James Corbett plays the for a successful deployment bagpipes as the ship pulls away from the pier on a deployment. makes for a positive environ- Wasp will report to the 4th Fleet Area of Responsibility where ment.” it will participate in a variety of operations and exercises. MCPON stresses heritage in birthday message to fl eet

PRESS RELEASE Pictures, uniform items, an- Special from the Master Chief Petty Offi cer of the Navy chors … all mementos from Del Black’s amazing career. WASHINGTON — In But if you look closely, you’ll recognition of the Navy’s see that it’s much more. It’s a 234th birthday on October living history of our Navy. 13th, Master Chief Petty Of- There are pictures of a fi cer of the Navy, (MCPON) young Seaman Del Black Rick D. West released the fol- when he was aboard USS lowing message to the fl eet: Maryland in Pearl Harbor, “Very recently I had the just before the fl eet was at- honor of visiting Mrs. Ima tacked December 7th, 1941. Black. For those of you who Photo albums hold letters don’t know, she is the wid- written from several more ow of our fi rst Master Chief ships over the course of his Petty Offi cer of the Navy, Del career. One picture shows Black. MCPON Black, Ima and Ad- In honor of our 234th birth- miral Elmo Zumwalt, the day as a service, I’d like to Chief of Naval Operations tell you a little bit about this from 1970 to 1974. Look amazing lady because she closely at another and you’ll represents so much that is see him at his most comfort- right about our Navy and her able, surrounded by Sailors Photo by MC1 Jennifer A. Villalovos life so closely parallels our on the mess decks of a ship. Master Chief Petty Offi cer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick West and Ima Black, widow of the Navy’s fi rst MCPON, Master Chief history. He took care of Sailors at a Gunner’s Mate Del Black, look through old photos of Black during their visit. Ima’s eighty-eight-years time when our Navy had no old, an honorary master idea what or who a MCPON went where the fl eet was, to that you remember MCPON history alive. Seek them out. grows stronger each day due chief, a proud chief petty of- was. He went where the fi ght our ships at sea. Black and you consider that Talk with them and your lives to your effort, your initia- fi cer’s wife and an amazing was, to Vietnam. And he On our 234th birthday, I ask there are thousands of men will be richer for it. tive and your willingness to supporter of the American and women just like his wife Happy birthday shipmates. serve. Sailor. From the minute we Ima who keep our Navy’s You are part of a legacy that HOOYAH Navy. sat down to lunch she asked about you, about our men and women at sea and about the Sailors serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and other dan- gerous places around the world. I told her that I’d never seen so many men and wom- en in uniform with so much passion to serve, so much enthusiasm to represent our nation. We talked about to- day’s Navy and she told me some stories about the Navy she joined in 1943. Mrs. Black lives in a re- tired community down in Florida, in a small apartment overlooking a little lake. She’s surrounded by friends and is quick to point out that every once in a while a few Sail- ors drop by to see how she’s Photo by MC1 Jennifer A. Villalovos doing. Her apartment is a Ima Black, widow of the Navy’s fi rst MCPON, Master Chief tribute to our fi rst MCPON. Gunner’s Mate Del Black Photo by MC1 Jennifer A. Villalovos Master Chief Petty Offi cer of the Navy (MCPON) Rick West and Ima Black, widow of the Navy’s fi rst MCPON, Master Chief Gunner’s Mate Del Black, look through old photos of Black during their visit. Kearsarge prepares offensive against H1N1

STORY AND PHOTO BY MC1 EMMITT HAWKS then touching their eyes, mouth, or nose. USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Public Affairs Offi ce Preventative measures to help control PORTSMOUTH — The amphibious as- the spread of H1N1 include: Frequent- sault ship USS Kearsarge’s (LHD 3) Medical ly washing hands with soap and water for Department Sailors have outlined procedures 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand to educate and protect service members and sanitizer if soap and water are not available; their families against the H1N1 fl u virus. avoiding hand contact with the nose, mouth “The 2009/2010 fl u season is upon us,” and eyes; covering coughs and sneezes said Lt. Cmdr. Terrance Pyles, Senior Med- with a tissue, or upper sleeve; and dispos- ical Offi cer on board Kearsarge. “This year’s ing of tissues in no-touch trash receptacles, fl u season began earlier than last year be- keep frequently touched common surfac- cause of the need to begin protecting against es clean. For example, telephones, and A cake cutting ceremony was held on board the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge seasonal infl uenza before a similar effort is computer equipment. Try not to use oth- (LHD 3), to celebrate the new Logistics Specialist (LS) rating. The former Navy Storekeeper undertaken to protect against H1N1 fl u. Ex- er workers’ phones, desks, offi ces or other and Postal Clerk ratings merged Oct. 01, and will be recognized as LS. A photo was taken to tra vigilance is required to ensure Kearsarge work tools and equipment. If their use is commemorate the occasion with the oldest and youngest SK/PC Sailors with Cmdr. Michael maintains the required levels of operational absolutely necessary, consider cleaning Thomas, Supply Offi cer on board Kearsarge, (identifi ed from the left), LS Seaman Timothy Taylor, Chief LS Jerrilynn Pruske, LS 3rd Class Nathan Thurlow, and Chief LS Charles Moore. readiness and provide healthcare guidance them fi rst with a disinfectant. Maintaining a Kearsarge is currently undergoing a 10-month Dry Docked Planned Maintenance Availability to their families.” healthy lifestyle by paying attention to rest, at NNSY and is scheduled to get back underway this fall. 2009 H1N1 fl u is a new infl uenza virus diet, exercise and relaxation helps maintain causing illness in people. Most people do physical and emotional health. not have immunity to this virus, so it spreads “I applaud the medical team for provid- USS Kearsarge welcomes quickly through communities. ing us with the necessary training to protect “Prevention is key to suppress a fl u pan- ourselves,” said Quartermaster Seaman Ap- demic,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Donald prentice Ashley De Armitt. “There was a Logistic Specialist rating Harrington, preventive medicine technician wide variety of information given to us and on board Kearsarge. “The symptoms of this knowledge was passed to our loved ones seasonal and 2009 H1N1 fl u virus in peo- easily.” STORY AND PHOTO BY One of the oldest Navy tics Specialists, but it’s even ple include fever or chills and cough or sore According to the Center for Disease Con- MC1 EMMITT HAWKS Ratings, Storekeepers are more important to have throat. In addition, symptoms of the fl u can trol, those currently at higher risk of serious USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Public Affairs Offi ce tasked with maintaining an open mind to the broad include runny nose, body aches, headache, fl u-related complications from 2009 H1N1 in- ship supply stores. Their spectrum of technical areas tiredness, diarrhea, or vomiting. Like sea- clude children younger than fi ve years old, PORTSMOUTH — The responsibilities generally that include stock control, sonal fl u, H1N1 may cause a worsening of pregnant women, people of any age with cer- number of ratings in the include purchase and pro- aviation supply, and hazard- underlying chronic medical conditions. tain chronic medical conditions (asthma, Navy’s Supply workforce curement, shipping and ous material.” Personnel with the fl u spread the virus diabetes, heart disease), adults and children will shrink by one when receiving, and issuing of Postal Clerks are re- through coughing or sneezing near others. who have a weak immune system, residents the new Logistics Special- equipment, tools, consum- quired to attend a one-week Sometimes people may become infected by of nursing homes and other chronic-care fa- ist (LS) rating merges the able items or anything course to learn facets of the touching something with fl u viruses on it and cilities and persons 65 years or older. Postal Clerks (PC) with the else obtained through the Navy Supply system and Storekeepers (SK) Oct. 1. Naval Supply System. In Storekeepers must attend As with all major changes, November 2008, the Navy a two-week school to learn the merger will call upon all announced the merger of U.S. Post Offi ce policies Sailors involved to be fl exi- the Storekeeper and Postal and procedures. ble and open to learning new Clerk ratings to become the “The two ratings have a ways of getting the job done, Logistics Specialist rating, long history of working to- but it is a challenge the Store- effective beginning Octo- gether,” said Cmdr. Michael keepers and Postal Clerks ber 2009. This is the second Thomas, Supply Offi cer on on board the amphibious as- merger for the Storekeep- board Kearsarge. “The Lo- sault ship USS Kearsarge er rating, which combined gistics Specialist rating will (LHD 3) are looking forward with Aviation Storekeepers defi ne our future, increasing to meeting head-on. (AK) in 2003. the effi ciency of the Navy “The rating merger is “There is a lot of informa- Supply program and enhanc- a great idea,” said Postal tion that must be learned ing customer service.” Clerk 2nd Class (SW) Trac- by both ratings,” said Chief Kearsarge is current- ey Fudge. “The merger of Postal Clerk (SW/AW) ly completing a 10-month specialties increases our Charles Moore. “The Navy Dry Docked Planned knowledge of Navy logistics has established schools maintenance period and is Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Benjamin Farmer gives Aviation Machinist’s Mate Airman and improves advancement to facilitate learning this scheduled to get underway Recruit Charles Cutshall a vaccination on board the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge opportunities.” knowledge for future Logis- this fall. (LHD 3). Photo by MC3 Class Jonathan USS Nassau’s (LHA 4) boat crew pull swimmers from the water during a swim call off the coast of Virginia. Nassau Sailors take a dip

Two USS Nassau (LHA 4) Sailors jump into the warm ocean water from Nassau’s well deck during a swim call held off the coast of Virginia as safety observers keep a watchful eye on them.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY “Although I didn’t get to go into the water, I MCSN CHRIS WILLIAMSON believe the swim call was still a great Morale, USS Nassau Public Affairs Welfare and Recreation event,” said Kopiczak. ATLANTIC OCEAN — Sailors aboard “It’s been a tradition since the Navy’s incep- USS Nassau (LHA 4) enjoyed some well-de- tion, and will continue to be a success for served leisure time during a swim call and years to come.” steel beach picnic in the Atlantic Ocean Sat- Safety observers, small boats with shark urday. watch personnel and Search and Rescue Nassau left Norfolk Sept. 15 to conduct op- (SAR) swimmers were also there to provide erations off the Florida coast. safety procedures and rescue assistance, said On the return trip, approximately 130 Sailors Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Jonathan took part in a swim call, and for some, it was Flemming. (Above) USS Nassau (LHA 4) Sailors enjoy the warm the opportunity of a lifetime. Nassau’s Exec- “Even though the people in and out of the ocean water during a swim call held off the coast of Virginia. (R) USS Nassau’s (LHA 4) Administrative utive Offi cer, Cmdr. David Stracener, was the water were listening and following our safety Offi cer, Lt. Cmdr. Will Parks showcases his fi rst to jump in the water and was welcomed directions, we still had to rescue some sailors swimming attire in Nassau’s well deck. (Below) USS by a gauntlet of Sailors in the well deck. due to the strong current,” said Flemming, Nassau (LHA 4) Sailors anxiously await to jump from “In my 20 years of being in the Navy, this one of the certifi ed SAR swimmers aboard Nassau’s well deck. was my fi rst time ever,” said Stracener. “Not Nassau. “Other than that, everyone had a many people get to do these in their career. good time and things went smoothly.” It provided the crew with an opportunity to Following swim call, crew members lined enjoy themselves at sea and I believe it was a up for hamburgers, hot dogs, wings and all great success.” the fi xings during a steel beach picnic on After Stracener dove in, he welcomed ev- the hangar bay. The crew also enjoyed an af- eryone to jump in with him. One of those ternoon in the hangar bay fi lled with music, swimmers was Aviation Boatswain’s Mate basketball and the ‘American Gladiator’ event Handling Airman Kalli McCrary. of joust. “This is something I had to experience in “These events create lasting memories,” my Navy career,” said McCrary. “I worked all said Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Nicho- night and stayed up all day just to be able to las Roby, who participated in the swim call. jump in the ocean. Who else in the world gets “Doing the same thing over and over again to do this?” at work tends to get tedious. I’m glad every- Also enjoying the unique occasion was one, including myself, got to take time out of Nassau’s Command Master Chief (AW/SW) their busy schedules to do this once in a life- Stanley Kopiczak. time event.” BONE: 15 minutes could save a life Continued from page B1 “I took a swab kit home to not only to take part. swab my husband and get him registered “It took about 15 minutes, and it felt but for my neighbors as well,” Hospital great to know in that time I put myself in a Corpsman 3rd Class Amanda Soehren position to save someone’s life,” he said. said. “I figured what if the person need- USS George H.W. Bush crew members ing the bone marrow was a loved one or and shipyard workers were encouraged even me? I would want to have the best to not only register themselves but to chance of finding a match.” take a kit home for anyone in their house- For more news from USS George H.W. hold between the ages of 18 and 60 years Bush (CVN 77), visit www.navy.mil/lo- old. cal/cvn77/.

Photo by Lt.j.g. Theresa Donnelly Medical personnel assigned to Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines assist a The MV-22B Osprey woman in labor during relief efforts after flooding destroyed homes in Manila. U.S. Navy Sailors delivered medical supplies, food, and rescued more than 52 people in Manila. RESCUE: Philippine government grateful

Continued from page B1 thankful for U.S. support. and assistance from Joint Your teams were able to Special Operations Task I could do to help the Fil- successfully go to Santa Force Philippines. ipino people. I was glad Lucia High School to help “I don’t think we could I could be a part of the deliver food. It was a big have done anything rescue efforts,” said Hos- boost that your people were without the help of the Fil- pital Corpsman 2nd Class helping us.” ipinos. They were just great (FMF) Jonathan Porter. On Sept. 26, JSOTF-P in helping us. They had Porter was a JSOTF-P med- teams delivered 500 pounds translators, guides, “ said ic on scene to provide direct of food to Santa Lucia high Porter. medical care. school. Additionally the “They were able to tell According to Philippines following day, a civilian us where to go. When we Disaster Management Ser- helicopter contracted by were looking for a house, vices, the floods displaced JSOTF-P unloaded and dis- the police and local citi- Photo by MC3 Ryan Steinhour hundreds of thousands of tributed an additional 4,200 zens would help us and the An MV-22B Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 263 (Reinforced) lands aboard the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) during people and the most recent pounds of food and water rescue was a collaborative routine flight operations. reports indicate that nearly in Cainta, northeast of Pa- effort among governmen- 100,000 people have been sig city. tal agencies and the people relocated. The response to Ondoy affected,” he said. “The work the U.S. mili- was a collaborative effort For news from Joint PREVAIL: Civilian mariners train Sailors tary did was terrific,” said among Philippine civilian Special Operations Task Roman Romulo, Pasig City governmental agencies, the Force-Philippines visit www. Continued from page B1 Prevail is crewed by 12 ci- piping repair, tank and void congressman. “I was very AFP, the people affected navy.mil/local/pacom. vilian professional mariners. inspection and the installa- Visit, Board, Search and During training exercises tion of a new fathometer Seizure (VBSS). Naval Reservists augment and speed log. “Prevail directly sup- the crew to ensure Prevail Prevail was also fitted ports the maritime has a large enough crew to with Intersleek underwa- COLE: Teamwork is key for timeliness strategy by providing train- carry out training missions. ter hull coating. Intersleek ing tailored to real-world The crew plays the part of hull coating helps to reduce missions that deploying pirates, smugglers or a vari- sea growth and improves strike groups will face,” ety of other roles to ensure fuel efficiency while pre- said Wayne Gittelman, CS- the training received by the serving the environment. FTL’s Mobile Sea Range strike groups is as realistic “I’m proud my crew, Manager. as possible. working side-by-side with “By presenting realistic “We continue to change shipyard workers, was scenarios stressing MIOs, based on the feedback we able to complete this avail- surface and air threats and get from the warfighters,” ability on time with no electronic threat presenta- said Gittelman regarding accidents or injuries,” said tions, we expand deployed Prevail’s role in training Capt. George Fleck, Mas- crew and vessel com- the fleet. ter of TSV-1 Prevail. petency. As a result, we The dry dock availabil- “We’re looking forward dramatically increase the ity was contracted and to getting back to sea and deploying ship’s ability to supervised by Mid-Atlan- helping to train the Fleet.” meet the core capabilities tic Regional Maintenance For more news from Com- of maritime power and their Center (MARMC). Repairs mander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, ability to provide security, and maintenance included visit www.navy.mil/local/ stability and sea power.” hull blasting and painting, c2f.

Photo by MC3 Matthew Bookwalter Sailors aboard the guided missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) take advantage of a break during flight quarters to repair a hole in the safety netting around the flight deck. Continued from page B1 “Our entire team reacted immediate- maritime security. ly,” said Devinney. “The deck division “I think incredibly highly of the USS conducted small boat operations and per- Cole. You put the RHIB in the water quick- formed rapid assessments of security. ly, maneuvered the ship smartly, and got Meanwhile, the bridge watch team provid- all the reports off the ship to keep the ed security for the boarding team and gave Fleets fully informed,” said Kersh. “The a visual play-by-play account to the DES- demonstration of great teamwork that I RON Staff Tactical Action Officer.” saw in Cole was truly magnificent. That is DESRON 24 Commodore, Capt. John a tribute to each and every one of you and Kersh, addressed the crew after the event your readiness, and you ought to be very to thank them for their support to civil proud.”