Inside This Issue Page 4 MCPON
COMMAND CORNER
Be Yourself – Your BEST Self Cmdr. Derek Wessman NRD Phoenix, Commanding Officer
Page 5 Read-In Page 6 Ronald McDonald House Page 7 RDAC Page 9 Around the Fleet
Road Runner Staff
Your best today may not be good enough tomorrow. For this reason, we must continue to improve, to better ourselves every day. Being yourself and contributing your own talents and experiences to today’s challenges is vitally important to your success and that of our team, but even more important is strengthening those talents and adding to those experiences so that you are better prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow. From our Command Philosophy…
Cmdr. Derek Wessman Commanding Officer Cmdr. Alex Ortiz Executive Officer
“Be the best that you can be.” Despite the purpose and merits Command Master Chief of this saying, I was always turned off by it as a kid. I’m sure it was just MC1(AW) Adrian Melendez my subconscious suppressing any Public Affairs Officer inspiration because it was too close Editor/Layout and Design to the Army slogan “Be all you can be.” My main beef with it, however, was its lack of clarity. It left me The Road Runner is a monthlynewslet- with more questions than answers ter produced by the U.S. Navy Recruitor inspiration. What is meant by ing District Phoenix Public Affairs. It is best? …Best student? Best player? intended primarily, but not exclusivly, for the use, information and entertain- Best friend? Best worker? Best at ment of it’s active duty and reserve everything? What if I wasn’t the members, civilian employees and their best? What did that mean? What families. Any views exspressed herin are were the consequences? not necessarily the official postions of Recently, I learned to see the U.S. Navy. The Road Runner staff the term best through a different encourages feedbacl from it’s readers. Please submit all articles, suggestions, lens. Consider this: Best is more a ideas, comments, photos, compliments comparison to your own potential or complaints to MC1(AW) Adrian than it is a comparison to others. Melendez at adrian.b. melendez@ Your best is not the same as another navy.mil. person’s best. Of course it’s good to be #1, but only if you’ve earned it and your integrity is intact. Another point to consider: CMDCM(SCW/SW) Eric Cole
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COURAGE - Be Yourself (…& Better Yourself): - It takes Moral, Mental & Physical Courage to contribute your unique combination of Talents and Experience while staying open to Growth & Self-Improvement. No one else can do it for you. Be a Self-starter! This month, with the production surge, I’ve been particularly impressed with the professionalism and drive from the entire team to meet the demands of our mission. Our operating environment is rapidly changing - defined by decreasing resources, increasing goals and an economy on the rise. At times like this, TRAINING and preparation will sustain our success. Keep this in mind as we train toward the new VALOR (Value Oriented Recruiting) sales methodology over the next BEST Continued on Page 4
Your American Sailor By Adm. Jonathan W. Greener Chief of Naval Operations
Though the U.S. Navy is made up of ships, submarines and aircraft, its true strength lies in the skill and dedication of its people. As the Chief of Naval Operations, it is my honor to lead the 625,000 active and reserve Sailors and civilians who propel the Navy forward and protect our nation’s security and prosperity. As we prepare to mark this Memorial Day, it is a privilege to recognize the service and sacrifices of your American sailors and their families. Our Sailors are among the brightest, most committed and courageous individuals our nation has to offer. They are the sons and daughters of America, representing every state and territory as well the rich heritage of a diverse nation. In my travels around the Navy, I am continually reminded of how different perspectives and backgrounds come together to form our Navy team. They are a team that is committed to operating forward and being ready to respond. From their first year in the Navy, Sailors and their families quickly gain an appreciation for what it means to serve. Deployments abroad for several months at a time and emergent operations in
response to dynamic world events demonstrating unshakable resolve form the routine of their lives. that deters aggression. While they keep the watch over This is today’s all-volunteer seas, Sailors often miss birthdays, force and today’s military family. anniversaries and other family We are grateful that so many highmilestones. I am impressed by their caliber young Americans have anendurance and resilience, which swered the call to serve. But we are sustains our Navy’s forward presalso mindful of, and pay tribute to, ence on land and at sea around the those who shaped our nation’s hisglobe. It is the sacrifice of the Sailtory and paid the ultimate sacrifice. ors and their families that supports Indeed, freedom is not free. Our the high demand of today’s Navy rich heritage has demonstrated the and our many missions. importance of having capable Sail Today more than half of ors willing to go into harm’s way. our 285-ship Navy, including five We must never forget these Sailors aircraft carriers and six large-deck and their families for their sacrifice amphibious ships, are deployed and dedicated commitment to their overseas or at sea getting ready to country. deploy. We have more than 20,000 I am very proud of their Sailors supporting operations in heroism as they serve throughthe Middle East. Of that number, out the world. The knowledge, more than 17,000 Sailors are at sea, high standards and productivity and about 4,500 are serving on the required of them, in some of the ground in Afghanistan. Navy airmost challenging environments, craft provide about a third of the air prove how exceptional they truly support for U.S. and NATO forces are. So, as we recognize their in current campaign to secure service during this Memorial Day, Afghanistan. As part of the world’s I am confident that the spirit and preeminent maritime force, Ameri- passion of your American Sailor can Sailors are engaged will never be forgotten. in protecting the interconnected systems of trade, information, and security that support our economy and those of our friends and allies. They are also on watch to keep the peace in volatile regions and support our diplomatic efforts. In many places, the American Sailor is the face of U.S. global leadership, maintaining (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication trust that sustains our Specialist 3rd Class Betsy Knapper) partnerships and alliances as well as
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MCPON Sends Memorial Day Message
Special from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (SS/SW) Rick D. West WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON)(SS/SW) Rick D. West released the following Memorial Day message to the fleet May 24. “Shipmates and Navy families, Across our great country this weekend, Americans will revel in the opening act of summer with burgers on the barbecue, road trips to an array of destinations near and far, and recreational pursuits drenched in adrenalin or draped in tranquility. Many will pause to reflect on the supreme sacrifice made by those quintessential heroes of liberty; our sons and daughters who selflessly laid down their lives in the name of the nation’s cloth. Memorial Day festivities unite us in uniquely American celebrations of patriotism and freedom, made even more profound by a decade of sustained valor on the front lines. Regardless of how you choose to observe Memorial Day, I encourage each of you in uniform and the devoted families who stand beside you to take a well-deserved sense of honor in your own loyal service. You are part of something BEST Continued from Page 2
month, I encourage you to jump in with both feet and ask the hard questions. One of the great things about the VALOR system is that it is a continuous loop of learning, growing and sharing best practices. So let’s make the most of our time spent training
bigger than yourself ... a precious embodiment of the ideals etched in history by men and women who gave their last breath defending the things we hold most dearly. You fortify us with the force of personal courage, the durability of unshakeable resolve, the precision of noble purpose and the endurance innate in our sacred oath to defend the Constitution. You are truly the source of America’s military strength. For more than 236 years, veterans like you have marched, sailed and flown into the violent storms of war to preserve our sovereign interests at home and abroad. They fought and died for friends, family and our flag. A republic survives only so long as such people pledge allegiance to protect its posterity with nothing less than their lives. We must never forget that conviction or fail to recognize the warriors whose blood left behind on the battlefield represents eternal proof of their own immortal faith in our country. I ask you also to remember that you have an obligation to those you love, to those that you serve and lay the foundation for constant improvement and continued success. Thought for the month: What are you doing today to prepare yourself for tomorrow? Thanks again for your continued Honor, Courage & Commitment to
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with and to those in your community - it is to celebrate responsibly and safely so that your aspirations for the future are some day fulfilled. I’m truly grateful for your efforts to keep our Navy and this nation strong, and for the gallant sacrifices of those who have gone before us to defend freedom and democracy around the world. Hooyah and happy Memorial Day shipmates - be safe! Very Respectfully, MCPON”
our mission and your Shipmates. Stay Hungry! Skipper
Paradise Valley Recruiters Participate in Schools First Read-In Story and Photos by MC1(AW) Adrian Melendez NRD Phoenix PHOENIX, Ariz. - Two Sailors from Navy Recruiting Station Paradise Valley, in Phoenix, Ariz., participated in the first ReadIn held at Adams Traditional Academy in Phoenix, May 11. Navy Career Counselor st 1 Class Dawnell May and Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class John Casanova joined local leaders from the state government and law enforcement agencies to read to students at the K-8 school, and answer questions about their professions and why reading is important in their line of work. “We believe that by exposing our children to community members that come in, read a story, and then talk about why reading is important in their job, it helps children understand why reading is important. It’s good for the children,” said Sharon Malone the school’s Principle. May was chosen to read to
Navy Career Counselor 1st Class Dawnell May and Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class John Casanova, both from Navy Recruiting Station Paradise Valley, answer questions from first grade students at Adams Traditional Academy in Phoenix, Ariz., May 11, as part of the school’s inaugural Read-In. May and Casanova joined local leaders from the state government and law enforcement agencies to read to students at the K-8 school and answer questions about their professions and why reading is important in their line of work.
a first grade class and then both her and Casanova answered questions from the students. “It (the event) was well organized and the staff were all very appreciative of us being there. The kids were amazing, and it would have been very easy to stay all morning,” said May. May added she really appreciated being invited out to read to the students and said that these type of community events, and volunteer opportunities, are important for Sailors to be involved in. “Not only do events like this promote Navy awareness, but Navy Career Counselor 1st Class Dawnell May prepares to read the book ‘Desert Night; Desert Day’, by Anthony D. Fredericks and Kenneth J. Spengler, to 1st grade students at Adams Traditional Academy in Phoenix, Ariz., May 11.
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it also shows the community that we not only support them globally, but locally as well,” she said. Malone also stressed that it was equally important for the school to teach the students about military service and patriotism for one’s country, in which having service members at school events helps foster that. “We are a school that believes very strongly that part of an elementary education is to build patriotism in children,” said Malone. “When they leave me I want them to be patriotic, free thinking young adults. That is why our involvement with the military is so important to us.”
El Paso North Lends Hand at Ronald McDonald House By MC1(AW) Adrian Melendez NRD Phoenix
EL PASO, Texas - Sailors and Future from Navy Recruiting Station El Paso North participated in a clean up project at the Ronald McDonald House in El Paso, Texas, May 3. The 16 volunteers spent the day at the home assisting with general house cleaning, as well as a play ground clean up. The Ronald McDonald house provides temporary lodging to families of seriously ill children who are being treated at local hospitals, providing the residents with a “Home away from home.” “It’s important that the we get involved in the community to raise Navy awareness, and it always feels good helping people out and make the community aware the Navy is always willing to lend a helping hand,” said Culinary Specialist 1st Class Carlos Escobar from NRS El Paso North. Future Sailor Erika Chaparro participated in the project just days before she was
due to report for Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. She said that she loved being part of the project, and seeing the smiles on the faces of the residence as they worked about the house. “Being involved in these kind of community projects makes me feel good. This is really a good cause and every little bit of help we could provide was greatly appreciated. I love it,” she said. “We feel great knowing that
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we provide some help to some of the most families who are away from home,” said Escobar. Ronald McDonald House Charities is a global organization aimed at creating, finding and supporting programs that directly improve the health and well being of children.
RDAC Creativity- a Key Focus at Arizona State University’s ‘STEMs of Success’ Youth Conference By Daymond Howell TEMPE, Ariz. - Dozens of students from schools across Arizona had the unique opportunity to participate in the Legacy Initiative “STEMs of Success” conference at Arizona State University, May 10. Mr. Deon Clark, President and CEO of the Legacy Initiative and former Navy Nuclear Engineer recently partnered with the TEAM PHOENIX Recruiting District Advisory Council (RDAC) to provide these students with a unique opportunity to gain insight into the Navy’s Nuclear Power Program. According to Clark, “Young people often believe what they see. If they are surrounded by examples of successful people in STEM careers who they feel can relate to them, they will probably be more apt to believe that they too can be successful in a STEM career and work towards that goal”. Mr. Clark went on to unequivocally convey to the audience that his service in the Navy was the harbinger of his journey from the South Side of
Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Taylor O’Neal speaks to students about the Navy nuclear program during the STEMs of Success youth conference at Arizona State University in Tempe, Ariz., May 10. High School students from around the valley attended the conference to participate in projects revolving around Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), as well as listen and talk to professionals in different STEM professions about their jobs. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Adrian Melendez)
Chicago to his current success as a CEO, Educator and Commercial Nuclear Engineer. Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) is a topic that TEAM PHOENIX continues to
dissect in great detail. Fortunately, Lieutenant Erin Ocker, NRD Phoenix’s RDAC Officer, seamlessly integrated our Nuclear Programs/STEM Team comprised of LT Matt Reza, NCC Jorrel ReichBrooks, NC1 Craig Amos and EM1 Taylor O’Neal into the conference agenda. Ironically, the Navy was partnered with the Palo Verde Nuclear Power Plant Team during the student panel break-out groups. This opportunity provided excellent synergy of both Navy and commercial nuclear power generation to convey to students the mutual benefit of gaining initial training and experience in the Navy, and later leveraging this training into an RDAC Continued on Page 8
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RDAC Continued from Page 7
exceptional career opportunity in the commercial nuclear industry. Mrs. Erika Anderson, a current Licensed Nuclear Engineer at Palo Verde and former Navy Nuclear Engineer began her presentation by describing her journey to her current position as one of two licensed women engineers at the plant. “I answered an ad in the paper that described travel and training and at the other end of the phone was a Navy Recruiter.” Anderson went on to elaborate in a humorous manner that “Once a Navy Recruiter is convinced that you are a quality candidate, they become closer than your own family with the continuous communication.” A graduate of Garfield
High School, (Best known as the school where Jaime A. Escalante, one the most inspirational and influential American public-school teachers significantly improved math achievement scores among disadvantaged students throughout his school and later portrayed by Edward James Olmos in the film “Stand and Deliver .) Anderson described in great detail to the students the challenges of her training in the Navy’s nuclear power program as well as the invaluable experiences she gained aboard the USS George Washington (CVN-73). Anderson concluded her presentation by stating “No one is going to outsource a nuclear power plant!” This drove home the message to the students that a career in nuclear engineering is a challenging, secure and rewarding opportunity.
Deon Clark is the President and CEO of The Legacy Initiative (TLI); a 501(c) (3) nonprofit public charity, that identifies and fulfills the needs of underserved community members by strategically coordinating the collaborative efforts of new and existing resources. Mr. Clark is also the Manager of TCI Solutions, LLC; a company providing innovative education and training solutions for educators of and educational institutions in traditional and non-traditional settings. His organizations have serviced over 2500 middle and high school students, and over 40 educational facilities throughout Illinois and Arizona. Mr. Clark spent over 8 years in the United States Navy as a Nuclear Plant Operator, Mechanic and Instructor. He then went on to obtain a Senior
The conference concluded with separate break-out panels of young men and women being separated by gender into focus groups. Representing the Navy on the professional women’s panel was Senior Chief Christine Martinez of the Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Phoenix who also has been instrumental in developing TEAM PHOENIX’s Women in Non Traditional Ratings (WINTR) RDAC Committee. Senior Martinez delivered an inspirational and empowering message to the young women in the audience and by far invoked the majority of questions from the both the panel and audience. All in all, RDAC engagement, creativity and flexibility continue to propel STEM and WINTR initiatives to impressive heights.
Nuclear Reactor Operator Instructor certification, and is one of few African Americans in the nation qualified to teach Nuclear Power Operations to Licensed Nuclear Reactor Operators. With his extensive knowledge and experience in nuclear power operations, Mr. Clark began to put mechanisms in place to provide exposure and training to females and minorities in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). He is the creator of STEMS of Success™; a high quality, engaging and entertaining youth conference designed to get students interested and excited about STEM related fields of study. Mr. Clark was selected as an advisory board member for Technology Programs at City Colleges of Chicago, where he was instrumental in the design, development, implementation, and the facilitation of the Process Technology program. Mr. Clark has recently been solicited by Maricopa Community Colleges to provide consultation in the development of their NonLicensed Nuclear Operator program. As a result of his insights and unique experiences regarding diversity within the energy industry, Mr. Clark was invited to participate on the United States Navy’s Phoenix area Recruiting Division Advisory Council, to assist them with recruiting more female and minority talent to their programs.
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USS Miami Crew, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Combat Fire Aboard Submarine From Submarine Group 2
GROTON, Conn. - Statement from Rear Adm. Rick Breckenridge, Commander, of Submarine Group 2 in Groton, Connecticut: “Late yesterday afternoon, USS Miami experienced a fire in the submarine’s forward compartment. “Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Fire Department and Ship’s force, along with mutual assistance from several other area fire departments, immediately responded and successfully extinguished the fire on USS Miami. I repeat, the fire is out. “The fire and subsequent damage was limited to the forward compartment spaces only which includes crew living and command and control spaces. The nuclear propulsion spaces were physically isolated from the Forward Compartment early during initial response. “The ship’s reactor has been shut down for over two months and remained in a safe and stable condition throughout the event. The propulsion spaces remained habitable and were continuously manned through the night.
“There were no weapons on board in the torpedo room. The fire spread to spaces within the submarine that were difficult to access. The heat and smoke contained in these confined spaces made it challenging for fire-fighters to combat the blaze. “I want to emphasize that the heroic actions of the firefighting teams averted what could have been a much more severe situation. As a result of their quick and effective response, the fire was con-
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U.S. Navy photo byJim Cleveland
tained and brought under control. “We greatly appreciate the strong support received from our state and local partners who assisted us throughout this event. “All of USS Miami’s crew and the personnel supporting work and recovery efforts on the submarine are accounted for. “Seven people were injured during the fire-fighting response. Miami Continued on Page 11
Fleet Forces Launches Breathalyzer Beta Test From U.S. Fleet Forces Public Affairs NORFOLK - U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) launched a beta test here May 23, to obtain Fleet feedback that will help determine the most effective approach for implementation of a Navy-wide alcohol breathalyzer program. The 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative, announced by the Secretary of the Navy in March, outlined the Navy-wide breathalyzer program as a way to increase Fleet alcohol education and awareness and to provide commanders with another tool to ensure the health and safety of Sailors by identifying potential alcohol abuse. USFF has selected 13 sea and shore commands to participate in the beta test, which runs from May 24 through Sept. 30. All data collected will be consolidated under a summary recommendation and forwarded to the office of the Navy’s Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) to be considered for implementation into the final
policy. “This beta test will be used to identify, develop and make recommendations on specific processes, procedures, and policies to effectively implement the use of alcohol breathalyzers in the Navy,” said USFF Fleet Master Chief Mike Stevens, who’s working in coordination with USFF’s Breathalyzer Implementation Team on the beta test. “By obtaining feedback from the Fleet, we’re ensuring the final policy will be fully executable and will serve as a tool that benefits individual organizations and Sailors.” USFF’s breathalyzer implementation team met with the leadership of all 13 commands involved in the beta test today to issue equipment, provide training and issue specific guidance. Participating commands will provide detailed feedback to the implementation team throughout the test. Under the Navy program,
the breathalyzer will be used primarily as an education and prevention tool. Breathalyzer results alone will not be used as the sole evidentiary basis for punitive or adverse administrative action. Participating commands include, USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77); USS Kearsarge (LHD 3); USS Montpelier (SSN 765); USNS Apache (T-ATF-172); Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 2; Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4; the staff of Commander, Submarine Forces Atlantic; Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Training and Evaluation Unit (EODTEU) 2; Navy Information Operations Command, Norfolk; Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic; Navy Operational Support Center, Norfolk; and the USFF staff.
DoD Peak Moving Season is Now
From NAVSUP GLS Office of Corporate Communication SAN DIEGO - The summer months herald the busiest move season of the year as hundreds of thousands of Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) service members receive orders to new assignments across the nation and worldwide. NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS) Household Goods Assistant Program Manager Andrea Gergen advises those transferring to book their moves early. The period of May 15 through August 31 is the annual peak move season. Gergen said movers should
give their Household Goods offices a minimum of three weeks lead time to initiate an effective, smoother move experience. DoD and the USCG book an estimated 225,000 household goods shipments each summer, Gergen said. In addition to these moves, many federal civilian employees also choose to schedule their moves during the summer, since most schools are out of session and the relocation will be less disruptive for children. Service members who are
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faced with trying to move during this bottleneck period might find themselves with fewer options if they wait too long to book a move date. Gergen suggested families be flexible with their moving dates, plan ahead, and recognize that now is the time to get rid of unwanted items to reduce their shipment’s weight. “No one wants to get a bill for being overweight on their shipment,” Gergen said. Moving Continued on Page 11
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However, their injuries were minor in nature. The injured personnel included three Portsmouth Naval Shipyard firefighters; two ships force crew members; and two civilian firefighters providing support. These personnel were either treated on-scene or transported to a local medical facility for further treatment and all have been released. So all injured personnel Moving Continued from Page 10
Service members have two options for moving their household goods. They can choose a government arranged move, in which a contractor packs and ships their
have been released and are in good shape. There were no casualties in this fire. “Again, the response of the shipyard and the community firefighters has been exceptional. Their efforts clearly minimized the severity of the event. They immediately took actions to stabilize the situation, protect the public, and limit the impact to the environment. “So we are now moving forward with recovery actions.
The shipyard remains open for normal business and the workforce will report to work as scheduled. A full investigation has begun to determine the cause of the fire. We will continue to provide updates later today as more information becomes available. For now I need to get back to my responsibilities in the command center.”
household goods, or they may perform a Personally Procured Move (PPM) formerly known as a “DITY” move, where the customer arranges to rent a truck or trailer, or uses their own vehicle to move their items. For more information on
either option and to start the move process, customers should go to www.move.mil. For questions or concerns about moving, customers may e-mail householdgoods@navy. mil for assistance or contact their local personal property shipping office.
Navy Recruiting District Phoenix Division 6 Division Officer, Lt. Matthew Reza, reads an awards certificate, and congratulates Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Chris Conley during his re-enlistment at Lake Powell in Page, Ariz., May 2. Conley re-enlisted for 4 years and will transfer from NRD Phoenix in June. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Navy Career Counselor Brian Moore
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