Flagship 02.22.2024 by Military News

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 1

IN THIS ISSUE U.S. 2nd Fleet CMC retires after impactful 34 year career Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet hosted a retirement ceremony for Command Master Chief Huben Phillips at Joint Forces Staff College, Aug. 11, 2023, to celebrate more than 34 years of service. Phillips served as command master chief, U.S. 2nd Fleet and senior enlisted leader, Joint Force Command Norfolk for his last assignment. PAGE A6 VOL. 32, NO. 7, Norfolk, Va. | ﬂagshipnews.com

February 22-February 28, 2024

Participants emerge from the cold water after a 90-second swim as part of Fort Story’s Run and Plunge Feb. 14, 2024. (PHOTO BY APRIL PHILLIPS)

Fort Story hosts Valentine’s Day Run and Plunge By April Phillips

Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Valentine’s Day temperatures hovered in the low 40s, but a cloudless blue sky reflecting off the crashing waves of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story’s Inchon Beach created a beautiful backdrop for a small but dedicated group of participants in the first “Valentine’s Day Run and Plunge” at Fort Story. The event featured a two-mile beach run followed by a 90-second swim in ocean waters that were only one degree warmer than the air temperature. The 18 brave participants included Sailors, Soldiers, two German NATO soldiers, spouses, and children. The event was the brainchild of Fort Story fitness facility coordinator Shari Beasley. “I love the beach, and cold dipping is a big thing right now,” she said, referring to a wellness trend where a quick swim in cold water is linked to decreased inflammation, spikes in “feel good” hormones such as endorphins and dopamine, reduced stress, and better sleep. “My thought was, we can do this right here,” Beasley said. “I was hoping maybe five people would show up, so we did a lot better than that. I think it will grow in the coming years.” Sgt. First Class Michael Cohen, a staff member at the U.S. Army School of Music, wasn’t quite sure what he got himself into. “I’ve been participating in as many MWR

Run and Plunge participants pose for a group photo after completing a two-mile beach run and 90-second swim. (PHOTO BY APRIL PHILLIPS)

sponsored runs as possible since October,” he said. When asked about the additional element of a winter swim, he added, “It did make me think twice,” but he decided to try it anyway. The two-mile run on the beach was the easy part. Once the group completed it, they all plunged together into the ocean. Most stayed in the water for the full

90-seconds allotted. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 2nd Class Pacheco Blanco, stationed aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) said the cold water felt good after running. “It was relaxing as soon as I hit the water, but when I surfaced the ﬁrst time it was like being stabbed by needles so I dove back in,” he said.

After the swim, the group donned the commemorative knit caps they received after completing the challenge and posed for photos before heading out to dry off and warm up. Sgt. First Class Torben Jessen, a soldier in the German army, said he felt great after completing the unique challenge. “I’m ready to come back next year and do it again.”

50 years of building and restoring maritime capabilities: Celebrating the Underwater Construction Teams anniversary Courtesy Story

Navy Expeditionary Combat Command

The Navy’s Underwater Construction Teams (UCT) One and Two will celebrate half a century of subsurface construction progress and prowess Feb. 15. The Chief of Naval Operations tasked the Naval Construction Force with “developing and maintaining the capabilities to support the underwater construction requirements of the Navy” in November of 1967, and the teams were formally commissioned as their own units on Feb. 15, 1974, after serving as underwater construction branches of naval construction regiments. Historical documents show Seabee leaders were soliciting ideas for the name of their unit. When reviewing historical documentation about the unit’s establishment, team members discovered a civil engineer corps officer jokingly wrote to the officer-

in-charge of the underwater construction branch at the time that they needed “a catchy acronym” for the team, less they might be called the “Seabee Ocean Floor Team (SOFT)” or the ‘Construction Force Undersea Engineering Detachment (CONFUSED).” Ultimately, the underwater construction branches became the Underwater Construction Teams, a fitting name that not only captured their capabilities Steelworker First Class Ethan Sobalvarro prepares to take measurements on fleet mooring chain after replacing sacrificial zinc anodes. Task Force 75 is 7th Fleet’s primary expeditionary task force and is responsible for the planning and execution of maritime security operations, explosive ordnance disposal, diving, engineering and construction, and underwater construction throughout the IndoPacific region. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY CONSTRUCTION MECHANIC 2ND CLASS LUCAS JACKSON)

U.S. sends II MEF: ThreeStar Command lands in Norway for Exercise Nordic Response 24 II MEF’s command element will synchronize operations between the U.S. Marine Air-Ground Task Force, Norwegian Army units and a combined Swedish and Finnish Brigade under a NATO Joint Task Force. PAGE A5

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The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

Forward Deployable Preventative Medical Unit enhances combat effectiveness with comprehensive Weapons and Threat Recognition Training By Desmond Martin

Navy and Marine Corps Force Health Protection Command

This year, the Forward Deployable Preventative Medical Unit (FDPMU) participated in a first ever Weapons and Threat Recognition Training Course, specifically designed and tailored for the unit’s unique mission. FDPMU’s are rapidly, deployable, and mobile units that support force health protection, identifying health hazards in various deployable locations around the globe, and working closely with unit commanders and decision-makers to ensure the health and safety of deployed service members to the greatest extent. The weapons and threat recognition training is conducted to prepare the unit for deployments up to large scale combat operations. “The former Director for Preventive Medicine, Cmdr. George Vancil, of NMCFHPC was the catalyst behind making all this happen,” said Herschel Haynes, an FDPMU operations planner. “He had a vision to introduce these types of hard skills into the training program to increase the unit’s survivability and ensure they all return safely from uncertain, chaotic, and potentially kinetic operations.” “The FDPMU’s are proven force enablers,” said Vancil. “They have been since their first deployment in 2004 and continued to be in more than eight years at war during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The training received through the course is largely built from that experience and will ensure the FDPMU is able to operate effectively in a distributed maritime operational environment as they perform their combat support role.” The most recent courses were held in Suffolk, Virginia, in February. During the fiveday course, service members were instructed in things like how to recognize threats, and how to predict and prepare for violent action based on identifiable triggers and conditions, and how to clear from dangerous and violent actions. They were also trained on de-escalation methods, and safe and effective use of their weapons system, self-defensive measures, weapons retention, and basic combatives. “Instruction on the safe and effective use of the FDPMUs weapon systems and lessons on small unit tactics are taught by former Tier One Operators, a worthy training investment to maximize survivability of Navy Medicine’s most vital resource; it’s people,” said Vancil. The team also received classroom training that included handgun safety procedures, lessons on developing a combat mind set, threat recognition and situational awareness, shooting fundamentals, and case study discussions on low intensity conflicts. During the range portion of the course, service members were trained on shooting effectiveness from multiple positions, behind cover, shooting on the move, and how to perform a tactical reload and how to correct a weapons malfunction. Team members were graded on proper handling and use of their weapon system through the Navy Handgun Qualification where members

Hospital Corpsman Third Class Larry Dye, a preventive medicine technician with Forward Deployable Preventative Medical Unit Six (FDPMU-6), center, and Hospital Corpsman First Class Joey Mei a preventive medicine technician with FDPMU-6, back center, provides covering ﬁre for Hospital Corpsman Second Class Riley Nortrom, a corpsman with FDPMU-6 during a contact left drill, Feb. 5, 2024, in Suffolk, Virginia. This event is part of a unique Weapons and Threat Recognition Training Course, speciﬁcally designed and tailored for FDPMU’s which are rapidly, deployable, and mobile units that provide Force Health Protection Support around the globe. The training is conducted to prepare the unit for deployments up to large scale combat operations to carry out their tasks, enable efficient weapon operation, engage in close combat if needed while deployed. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY DESMOND MARTIN)

receive an “E” for expert, “S” for sharpshooter, or “M” for Marksmen, based on how well they handle and operate their weapon systems. According to Haynes, the selected training facility provides a deep range that allows for several shooters at a time. “This gives the others an opportunity to listen, watch, and learn,” he said. “The training cadre is able to set up scenarios that increase the team members ability to shoot, move, and communicate which adds a touch of reality.” Following the weapons system training members graduated to a culminating training event where members learn how to safely bailout from a vehicle in contact, while safely moving to a hard point for cover. Once at the hard point the team learned “stacking” maneuvers to safely enter a hard point. Vancil reiterated, “after receiving this training, FDPMU members can safely and effectively operate their weapon systems, perform their required duties, and execute close quarter combatives if necessary while out in a deployed environment. This makes them, not only an asset in maintaining force health protection, but a force multiplier, able to step in and provide physical security support when and if called upon to do so.”

Forward Deployable Preventative Medical Unit Six (FDPMU-6) member trains in weapons proﬁciency during a specialized course, enhancing readiness for diverse deployments, Feb 8, 2024, in Suffolk, Virginia. FDMU’s are rapidly, deployable, and mobile units that support force health protection, and identify health hazards in various deployable locations around the globe. The training was speciﬁcally designed and tailored for the unit’s unique mission to ensure service members are prepared for their upcoming deployments to enable efficient weapon operation, perform required duties, and execute close quarter combatives if necessary, in a deployed environment. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY DESMOND MARTIN)

MHI hosts Expeditionary Sustainment and Repair (ESAR) Workshop to demonstrate and evaluate products and services that expand the U.S. Navy’s ability to perform expeditionary maintenance operations By Ben Ellis

Naval Sea Systems Command

Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) 05T1 demonstrated technologies at the Expeditionary Sustainment and Repair (ESAR) Workshop hosted by MHI Ship Repair & Services in Norfolk, Virginia, January 30 to February 1, 2024. The workshop included 38 companies with over 300 attendees from the US Navy, Army, Coast Guard, other US Government organizations, industry partners, and academia. The workshop is a follow-on Repair Technology Exercise (REPTX) started in 2022 with two 2023 events, REPTX Distance Support in March and REPTX Visualization Workshop in September. The 3-day technology demonstration event included mobile induction heaters, additive manufacturing, portable machining, ultra-high temperature fasteners, bolting technology, ﬂuid ﬂushing, shipboard cable repair, surface preparation using lasers

and chemicals, safety equipment, adhesive solutions, micro-miniature repairs, portable power generation, and portable network systems. The companies were challenged with repair scenarios that forced many of the companies to work with one another providing a combined solution. One example is the repair of a valve that pressure tested up to 400 psi after being repaired. “Combining technologies creates capabilities”, one attendee stated. The partnership between MHI, IS4S, Rapidia, Orbis, and MARMC enabled the replacement valve at the event. The old valve was disassembled, valve body printed at the event, heat treated, machined, and ﬁnal assembled of the old and new parts demonstrated a sustainment technology process in alignment with the initial request for demonstration. NAVSEA 05T1 worked with the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS), Montana State University’s MilTech, Partnership Intermediary, and the Kostas Research Institute at Northeastern Univer-

sity to research and ﬁnd technologies that provide portable repair solutions. Demonstrations were presented by 3M Company, Advanced Ceramic Fibers, Anywise America / Titomic, Atmospheric Plasma Solutions, Clarus Fluid Intelligence, Direct Dimensions, Dust Identity, Electronics Service, Enduralock, Enfasco / Click Bond, ENRX Corporation, Fairlead, FiberQA, FireIce Solutions, Flora Coating, G.C. Laser Systems Inc, GasTOPS Inc, Hytorc, HyVal Industries, KITCO Fiber Optics, kSARIA Service Corporation, Laser Photonics, Layher / Tarp Innovators, Mactech, Nabors Energy Transition Solutions, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Keyport, nScrypt, Inc. / Sciperio, Ombra, Penn State Applied Research Laboratory, Rapidia Tech Inc, RPB Safety, Solarcore, SPEE3D, Sunrez Corp, TDA Research, Turn Around Factor, and VRC Metal Systems. Our host, MHI, helped plan and safely execute the event. MHI’s facilities enabled multiple indoor and several outdoor locations for the demon-

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm. Wesley McCall

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Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA): Public Affairs Director | Beth Baker Public Affairs Deputy Director | Leon Moore The Flagship® is published by Flagship, LLC., a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense (DOD) or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the paper, including advertisements, are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DOD, or the Department of the Navy (DON). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DOD; DON; Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, LLC. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Department of Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. Stories may be submitted via email to news@flagshipnews.com. The Flagship® is published every Thursday by Flagship, LLC., whose offices are located at 223E. City Hall Ave, Suite 400A, Norfolk, VA 23510. © 2021 Flagship, LLC. All rights reserved

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strations. Companies were given 1-hour blocks for demonstration and utilized the remainder of their time time to solve repair problems while collaborating with other companies for holistic solutions. MHI’s staff and shops provided exceptional planning and enabled repair solutions. The event was led by Dan Stanley, NAVSEA 05T1 NESAR Lead. Seventeen of the companies are being further researched for procurement or possible service provider to the NAVSEA team. Some of those companies will be invited to a Fleet Exercise. The NAVSEA 05T REPTX events continue to identify technologies that will improve our Fleet’s sustainment and improve readiness. A representative from Puget Sound Naval Shipyard stated “it was great to connect with your organization and observe new technologies.” The NESAR team is committed to supporting several events this year and have started planning of the 2025 REPTX, tentatively set for MarchMay 2025.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 3

Underwater from Page 1

succinctly but stood the test of time. Despite their commissioning date, the Seabee diving community can trace their roots back to World War II where specially trained Seabees qualified as Navy divers and participated in underwater demolition of reef obstructions, beach clearing operations, and in-shore construction necessary for the development of channels, harbors, and mooring facilities for the fleet. During the 1960’s, Seabee divers became major contributors to the early success of the “Man-inthe-Sea” programs, including SEALAB II and TEKTITE undersea laboratories, where saturation diving was refined. “Our underwater construction teams are an absolutely critical component of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force,” said Rear Adm. Brad Andros, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command. “Our Seabee divers provide direct and tangible support to not only the Fleet but to our allies and partners who rely on their unique skillsets to restore and build maritime infrastructure for more secure and prosperous sea lanes and maritime commons.” The UCTs were initially composed of 12-15 Seabees with temporary additional divers and support personal assigned as project needs required. With the growing workload and increased complexity of the missions over time, today’s UCTs have approximately 90 personnel assigned including eight civil engineer corps officers. Like all Seabees, in addition to their construction role, the unit must be capable of sustaining and defending itself if the situation required. “Our underwater construction teams are always looking for more dedicated Seabees to join our ranks, said Master Chief Petty Officer Brian Strantz, the Naval Construction Force’s Force Master Diver. “Serving as a Seabee diver offers unique training opportunities, specialized skillsets valued across the dive industry, and the opportunity to deploy forward and see the immediate impact and benefits of your work.” Since formally commissioning the units in 1974, the teams of Seabee divers have deployed to every continent and participated in projects and missions that include: repairing and re-opening piers, wharfs, and ports; providing mission critical waterfront facilities during combat operations; providing humanitarian assistance and disaster

relief following natural disasters; completing subject matter expert exchanges with ally and partner dive forces; and repairing underwater infrastructure for the U.S. military which has saved the government significant funding over the past five decades and has enabled distributed maritime operations. “Today’s underwater construction teams were built on the legacy of the many Seabee divers who came before us and continued to challenge the status quo”, said Cmdr. Mike Duffy, commanding officer, UCT One. “We are proud to carry on the tradition and heritage of the early Seabee divers as we continue to deploy ready and capable teams globally in support of our fleet.” Long known for their trademark Seabee “can do” attitude, the Seabee divers continue to lead technological advances within the underwater construction field. Over the past few years, the divers have increased their waterfront engineering expertise and effectiveness through usage of developing hydrographic survey and remotely operated vehicle technology, along with expedient port damage repair materials. “I’m continually impressed with our Seabee divers who embrace new technology and look for innovative ways to conduct their work in a more efficient or safe manner.” Said, Lt. Cmdr. Tyler Anderson, executive officer of UCT Two. “I believe it says a lot about the type of personality this line of work attracts—we’re a team of problem-solvers who embrace challenges, operate in austere environments, and take care of our teammates.” While the commands will recognize the anniversary locally in Pt. Hueneme and Virginia Beach on Feb. 15, the Hampton Roads Seabee Ball will be held on Mar. 2 and will have a Seabee diver theme, and a larger celebration and reunion is planned for May in coordination with the National Seabee Divers Association at the United States Navy Seabee Museum onboard Naval Base Ventura County where the UCT exhibit will be re-dedicated. For more information about becoming a Seabee diver, contact a UCT Recruiter at NCG_UCT_Recruiters@us.navy.mil. UCT 1 and 2 are part of the Naval Construction Groups in the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force, who bridge the gap from sea to shore and provide capabilities in complex and austere environments. For more information about NECC and our units, visit our website: https://www.necc. usff.navy.mil/

TOP RIGHT: Seabees, assigned to Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 1, conduct surface supplied diving operations during diver-qualiﬁcation training off the coast of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Feb. 12, 2017. UCT 1 provides a capability for construction, inspection, repair and maintenance of ocean facilities in support of Naval operations. (U.S. NAVY COMBAT CAMERA PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS SEAN FUREY)

RIGHT: TINIAN, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (March 24, 2023) - Chief Utilitiesman Erick Martin from Underwater Construction Team (UCT) Two works from a suspended platform to install zinc anodes in the Port of Tinian in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY BUILDER 2ND CLASS ZAK KENNEDY, UCT TWO)

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4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

(Back row left to right) Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division’s Jonathan Clark and Tyler Truslow and University of Mary Washington’s Dr. Michael Hubbard assist the King George Middle School team troubleshoot their robot during the Innovation Challenge @ Dahlgren: Middle School Robotics, Feb. 10. (PHOTO BY DAVID ELLIS, NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE CENTER DAHLGREN DIVISION)

NSWC Dahlgren Division joins partners in hosting inaugural Innovation Challenge @ Dahlgren: Middle School Robotics event By David Ellis

Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division

When Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) world-class scientists and engineers aren’t focused on developing the latest technology for the nation’s warﬁghters, they turn their attention to sharing their knowledge and expertise with the younger generations in their communities. NSWCDD leadership created a series of innovation challenges led by its expert workforce to develop the STEM warriors of the future. The newest challenge promoted STEM to the youngest competition group yet. The Innovation Challenge @ Dahlgren: Middle School Robotics was held February 10 at the University of Mary Washington (UMW) Dahlgren Campus in partnership with UMW, Fredericksburg Regional Military Affairs Council, King George Economic Development Authority, The MITRE Corporation and SimVentions. UMW Director of the Dahlgren Center

for Education and Research Dr. Michael Hubbard kicked off the event. “Technology is advancing rapidly and becoming increasingly important in our current world and STEM education plays a vital role in securing the future of our nation,” he said. “Investing in the development of these students, who are the future superheroes of our great nation, will yield an unimaginable return on investment.” Over 120 students formed 15 teams from 10 schools representing 10 school districts programmed robots to complete missions ranging from rescue to chemical cleanup while navigating terrain features on a map. NSWCDD STEM mentors, advocates and volunteers provided students with expert help throughout the competition. King George native Tyler Truslow beneﬁted greatly from growing up near the Navy’s largest STEM hub. After taking advantage of internship and tuition assistance programs, Truslow began a career at NSWCDD as a scientist and now serves as its K-12 STEM coordinator. A grateful Truslow looks to pay

it forward. “NSWCDD provided me with so many opportunities that led me to where I am today,” he said. “Now, it’s exciting to have the opportunity to be the one to promote STEM careers at Dahlgren to a new generation.” NSWCDD Commanding Officer Capt. Philip Mlynarski and Technical Director Dale Sisson Jr., P.E., SES, announced the winners at the end of the competition. Caroline Middle School earned ﬁrst place, followed by James H. Carey Intermediate School in second and A.G. Wright’s ﬁrst team won third. Caroline Middle School offered the key to their success to future innovation challenge competitors. “Work as a team and divide the work,” said teammate Seth Iddins. The division announced the champion who took home a plaque to their school and individual plaques for the team members. Each school will get a LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime Set and a 3-D print. NSWCDD will host the third annual high school innovation challenge in March and

its second collegiate challenge in April. Last November, the warfare center held its ﬁrst industry innovation challenge. The events are critical to the Potomac Tech Bridge’s strategy to provide solutions to the challenges faced by our Marines and Sailors. By working with regional academic institutions, industry and small businesses, the tech bridge seeks to build a community of innovators. Sisson credited the effort of the NSWCDD team for the success of the innovation challenge and what it means for the future of the students who competed. “We’ll continue to focus on engaging our students early and often to think about math, science and engineering,” said Sisson. “This is our starting point to engage them. Hopefully, they will participate in the high school challenges and eventually become interns for us here at Dahlgren. Getting them interested in STEM careers while they’re young is so important for us here in the United States, and certainly for us at NSWCDD.”

The Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary announce scholarship opportunities Courtesy Story

The Veterans of Foreign Wars and Auxiliary, Post 392 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1211 are working together this year to spread the word to these who are eligible for the Scholarships. We only cover the Virginia Beach area. The Scout of the Year Program ends on March 1, 2024. Anyway, the forms were given out earlier in the year and hopefully most of the interested Scouts are already working on their Eagle Award. This is also

open to Venture Summit or Quartermaster Sea Scout. This is also open to Girl Scouts earning their Gold Award.

The second program is for students in Grades 9-12 and is called The Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest. There are two separate types of art, with the ﬁrst part being two-dimensional art. The deadline is March 31, 2024. The second part is a three-dimensional Patriotic Art Contest. The paperwork can be requested by email and will explain everything. Again, this is a March 31, 2024 deadline.

Next is Illustrating America Art for students in K-8th grades. This program is to encourage and recognize young artists with patriotism through art. The judging is broken into different age groups, K-2 grades, 3-5 grades and 6-8 grades. Entries must be submitted to VFW Post 392 Auxiliary by March 31, 2024. Finally, the last program with a deadline of March 31, 2024 is called Get Excited for the Red, White and Blue! It is a video solo performance of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’. All of the instructions are included on the

brochure and entry form. This entry should be on a ﬂash drive and also submitted to VFW Post 392 Auxiliary. The address for VFW Post 392 and Auxiliary is 2408 Bowland Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23454. Bowland Parkway is located off London Bridge Road between Central Drive and Potters Road. Request brochures and entry forms by emailing suesowers46@gmail.com. Each entry must be received at VFW Post 392 by the deadline.

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 5

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, conduct a foot movement during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 2024 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 9, 2024. Nordic Response is a Norwegian national readiness and defense exercise designed to enhance military capabilities and allied cooperation in high-intensity warﬁghting in a challenging arctic environment. This exercise will test military activities ranging from the reception of allied and partner reinforcements and command and control interoperability to combined joint operations, maritime prepositioning force logistics, integration with NATO militaries, and reacting against an adversary force during a dynamic training environment. The U.S. stands ﬁrm in commitment and readiness to support Norway, allies and partners. (U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY CPL. JOSHUA KUMAKAW)

U.S. sends II MEF: Three-Star Command lands in Norway for Exercise Nordic Response 24 Courtesy Story On February 12th, the vanguard of the U.S. Marine Corps, II Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) command element arrived at Bardufoss Air Station, Norway, to participate in NATO’s exercise Nordic Response 24. As the Land Component Command headquarters for the exercise, II MEF’s command element will synchronize operations between the U.S. Marine Air-Ground Task Force, Norwegian Army units and a combined Swedish and Finnish Brigade under a NATO Joint Task Force. “We’re looking forward to exercising with our Norwegian hosts, NATO allies and partners,” remarked II MEF commanding general Lt. Gen. David A. Ottignon.

“There’s no place like the Nordic countries to sharpen our warﬁghting skills.” Nordic Response 24 is part of the much larger NATO exercise Steadfast Defender 2024, which is expected to involve approximately 90,000 troops across Europe. According to U.S. Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli, NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander and U.S. Europe Command commander, the exercise “will demonstrate our unity, our strength, and our determination to protect each other.” II MEF’s strategic deployment more than 6,500 kilometers from its home base in the United States demonstrates the reach and mobility of American forces available to defend NATO’s northern ﬂank, if called upon. “Nothing is easy when you’re operating in

several feet of snow, at negative 40 degrees Fahrenheit, surrounded by 5,000-foot mountain peaks,” Ottignon said. “But being a Marine isn’t about doing what’s easy. It’s about being the best and being prepared for the challenges of the future. This exercise in this environment is designed to do just that by building on the grit, skills, and determination within every Marine so they can operate in any clime and place.” Around 2,500 U.S. Marines will join the exercise alongside NATO allies and Sweden. The goal is to strengthen coordination across air, ground, maritime and other domains into a uniﬁed ﬁghting force ready to respond to any threat. From January to March 2024, the U.S. Marines and their Norwegian counterparts

will work hand-in-hand with NATO allies to hone tactics and procedures for winter warfare. Beyond tactical objectives, the exercise signals the steadfast solidarity allies share in defending collective security. “Norway is special to us. Our countries have been working together for more than a century. II MEF has trained side-by-side, strengthening bonds and operating as one cohesive team in Norway during the last decade of Cold Response exercises,” added Ottignon. “The Arctic is a ﬂuid strategic place. It’s important for our allies to know that we’re here today and we’ll be here when needed to respond swiftly to any threat.”

ABOVE: U.S. Marines with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing build a snow-cave shelter during a four-day cold-weather training course in preparation for Exercise Nordic Response 24 at Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 13, 2024. (U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY LANCE CPL. ORLANYS DIAZ FIGUEROA)

ABOVE RIGHT: U.S. Marine Corps Private First Class Ryder Butler, a combat engineer with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, conducts an ice break drill during Cold Weather Training in preparation for the NATO exercise Nordic Response 2024 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 10, 2024. (U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY CPL. JOSHUA KUMAKAW)

U.S. Marines with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, volunteer at the Troms County Championship Biathlon as part of a community engagement event in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 10, 2024. (U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY LANCE CPL. GRACE STOVER)

U.S. Marine Corps SSgt. Austin Vandervelde, an explosive ordinance technician with Marine Rational Force - Europe, provides security during a breaching and clearing mission to display interoperability with allies and partner nations prior to Nordic Response 24 in Setermoen, Norway, Feb. 7, 2024. (U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY LANCE. CPL. CHRISTIAN SALAZAR)

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

NORFOLK, Va. - U.S. 2nd Fleet Command Master Chief Huben Phillips walks ashore with his spouse following his retirement ceremony, Aug. 11, 2023. Phillips served the Navy for more than 34 years. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS ANDERSON W. BRANCH)

U.S. 2nd Fleet CMC retires after impactful 34 year career By Petty Officer 1st Class Kris Lindstrom Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet

NORFOLK, Va. — Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet hosted a retirement ceremony for Command Master Chief (CMDCM) Huben Phillips at Joint Forces Staff College, Aug. 11, 2023, to celebrate more than 34 years of service. Phillips served as command master chief, U.S. 2nd Fleet and senior enlisted leader, Joint Force Command Norfolk for his last assignment. Vice Adm. Daniel Dwyer, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet, presided over the ceremony that hosted some of the Navy’s highest leadership from the officer and enlisted ranks. Dwyer explained what Phillips meant to not only the two commands they led together but the Navy as a whole. “To summarize what Fleet Phillips does each and every day, I can only share with you one word: impact,” Dwyer said during his speech at the ceremony. “He impacts every person he comes into contact with on the deck plates and makes them better, and

I count myself among them.” Vice Adm. Alvin Holsey, military deputy commander, U.S. Southern Command, was among the distinguished leaders in attendance and served as a guest speaker. They previously worked together on Task Force One Navy, a program created by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday to identify and remove racial barriers, improve inclusion efforts, create new opportunities for professional development and eliminate obstacles to enter the Navy. “Hard doesn’t mean impossible. The question you have to ask yourself is ‘what does hard mean to you?’ ” Holsey said. “I don’t think hard is even in Huben’s vocabulary because for him, it deﬁnitely does not mean impossible. There are some who say it would have been impossible for someone like him, who was born in Lexington, North Carolina, to blaze the trail that he’s blazed. I will share with you that it’s sometimes better to live the impossible than to question what could have been.” Capt. Gavin Duff, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), another guest speaker, spoke on

the positive impacts of quality leadership and how Phillips’ service in the Navy will help into the future. “Leadership must be based in good will. Good will does not mean posturing,” Duff said. “President Truman said it like this, ‘Always remember that leadership is a privilege. When you are in a leadership role, your influence may affect the trajectories of other people’s entire careers.’ Your legacy will outlive your years of service.” Phillips discussed his perspective on the most challenging and important part of leading in military service: the people. “People ask me, what’s the hardest thing about your day, and I think, well two things: people and people,” Phillips said. “Because if they were low, I’d work real hard to pull them up, and if they were high, I would work hard to try to get to their level to connect and impact them.” Phillips continued by reflecting on his long career as a man humbled by his experiences throughout. “I walk away from the Navy as a man with many life experiences,” Phillips said. “For all the members in uniform I ask that you reflect

on who you are. Not the man or the woman in uniform, but you. The one you stare at in the mirror. Our rank, our titles, our positions merely state what we do, not who we are. I’ve learned many things in my tenure. But three are what I think about every single day. One is patience is its own reward. That was hard for me, I’m not very patient… [Two], I learned there’s a wrong way to do the right thing. That was hard, because morally I felt like I was right so therefore everyone should see that I was right. And most importantly, the biggest barrier to growth is oneself.” Phillips is succeeded as command master chief for U.S. 2nd Fleet by CMDCM Jason Avin, who previously served as force master chief for Commander Submarine Force, U.S. Paciﬁc Fleet, Honolulu. U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime forces ready to ﬁght across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

Child and Youth Programming Academy provides quality training to caregivers across the Mid-Atlantic region Katie Hewett, Public Affairs Specialist

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Feb. 6, 2024) Danielle“Dani” Smith, the Child and Youth Programming (CYP) Academy for Professional Development’s ﬁrst graduate, speaks with attendees at the facility’s ribbon-cutting ceremony on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little CreekFort Story, Feb. 6. Navy Region Mid-Atlantic’s CYP Academy for Professional Development offers initial orientation training to new hires and provides them with mock classrooms for hands-on experience in a school-like environment to equip employees with top-of-the-line tools for success.

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA) Child and Youth Programs (CYP) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story to commemorate the opening of NRMA’s CYP Academy for Professional Development, Feb. 6. This new training facility offers mock classrooms for hands-on experience in a school-like environment with the intention to provide new and current CYP employees with the tools for success. According to Beverly Clymer, NRMA regional child & youth program manager, the CYP Academy is the ﬁrst of its kind and was developed to help address retention and operational shortfalls. “The journey to identify the need for this facility began in the aftermath of the pandemic,” Beverly said during her remarks at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “The facility was created with all roads leading to the need to rethink, reimagine, and recreate a training model to serve CYP professionals.” Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, Rear Adm. Wesley McCall, spoke at the ribbon cutting and emphasized the importance behind the CYP Academy’s mission. “This one of a kind approach targets opportunities for improvement at the source. This isn’t a bandage solution, but one that will continually deliver quality, top-notch, employees to take care of one of our Sailors’ top priorities — their children.” McCall said during his remarks at the ribbon cutting. “The region is laser-focused on the quality of service we provide to our Sailors and their families,” McCall continued. “The CYP Academy for Professional Development is not just meeting that focus, but taking it to the next level to get things right.” The idea behind the CYP Academy for Professional Development stemmed from Beverly’s dedication to the mission behind child and youth programming and ‘Get Real, Get Better’ initiative, related to recruiting and retention. “I want to take care of our region. Seeing the trends over the years, I saw something that needed to be ﬁxed,” said Beverly. That thing needing fixing was implementing new and innovative ways to train and develop employees so that they are well prepared for the job. “We believe that in the context of CYP;

(U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY KATIE HEWETT)

teaching, learning, and leadership are complementary ingredients in the recipe of quality. One example that comes to mind is the pace of change as it pertains to our CYP workforce,” Dr. Jeffrey McGee, regional professional development program analyst for CYP said during the ceremony. “Such change calls on us to rethink training and development. Training must speak clearly to employees in order to build their conﬁdence, gain their commitment, and motivate them towards outstanding performance.” Navy child development centers and programs strive to offer quality care of each child, each day, without exception. The root of that care comes from providing current and future team members with quality training and development so they are well prepared; a task that the CYP Academy is already making a reality. “The Academy is already providing initial orientation training to CYP professionals hired in the Hampton Roads area and will deliver professional training region-wide to

CYP directors and direct care staff,” Beverly said. Dani Smith, a Navy spouse originally from Texas, is the CYP Academy’s ﬁrst graduate. After completing the Academy’s three-day course, she went through a week of shadowing in an actual classroom where she put her new skills to the test. “It’s a rigorous program, but worth it,” Dani said. “They start you from ground zero and build on skills with hands-on demonstrations to get you prepared for the real thing.” While in the orientation program, students get hands-on training with baby mannequins and other props. They use them to learn how to properly feed and hold a baby, how to change a diaper, safe sleep practices, choking prevention, and more. Students also learn about proper hand-washing techniques, policies and procedures, and safety and emergency preparedness. The CYP Academy’s three-day orientation covers more than 30 topics to prepare

students for their new career as a Navy CDC employee. It’s not a light course load, but Dani says it speaks to Navy CYP’s level of care. “Doing this training and getting this guidance is something else,” said Dani. “If you are looking for something different in this ﬁeld, this format is way better than most - in my opinion - when you’re looking at structure and care.” For Jeffrey, providing quality care to every child without exception is something that will not only beneﬁt CYP Academy students and employees, but also the service members that region CYP supports. “We believe that by investing in our people with intention, in the form of quality training and development, we can move ever closer to our goal,” Jeffrey said, “and in striving towards this goal, our service members can execute their mission free of concern for the care of their children at home.”

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 7

(COURTESY PHOTOS)

Love is in the air at Norfolk’s Navy Exchange for Valentine’s Day By Retail Specialist 3rd Class James O’mailia NORFOLK, Va. — Norfolk’s Navy Exchange (NEX) Floral Shop spent week’s preparing to help patrons share and spread the love on Valentine’s Day with hundreds of flower orders, candy and various themed gifts. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent approximately $101.84 per person on their significant others this year for a total of about $25.8 billion overall on the holiday season throughout the U.S. As the NEX finished the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas season, they rolled right into prepping for Valentine’s Day. “We began ordering in January and by the first week of February we have everything ready and set up to start preparing for the big day,” said Kelvin Oliver, operations manager

at the Norfolk NEX. “By February 9 th we have most of the products out on the floor ready to be purchased by our customers.” This year marks Oliver&#39;s third Valentine’s Day working at the Norfolk NEX. Using his knowledge from previous years, he knows exactly which products to advertise for the best sales. “For Valentine’s Day, obviously the biggest push is the flowers, candy and jewelry,” said Oliver. “The flowers especially are one of our biggest sellers.” The NEX ordered over 4,000 sets of one dozen roses in preparation for the Valentine’s Day mad dash. Those flowers were prepared, processed and sold by approximately 15 Norfolk NEX employees. The processing of the merchandise begins when the roses are removed from their boxes and trimmed before being stored in large refrigerators where they are watered and preserved to ensure their freshness. The

YOUR PERFECT

processed bouquets are later put on display to be sold to customers at the floral shop. The floral shop, where most of the Valentine’s Day products are sold, is normally operated by three full time florists, including Beverly Spruiell, who boasts decades of experience in the floral industry. “This is definitely our busiest holiday, but one we enjoy the most,” said Spruiell. “We end up pulling from various departments to help and it’s nice to see everyone come together. Knowing that we are bringing love and happiness to people makes it all worth it.” This year, the floral shop received help from 12 employees from other departments throughout the store to ensure quality and timely customer service for all their patrons. The integrated team put together arrangements consisting of roses, available in several colors, and other flowers such as lilies, carnations, pixies and alstroemeria. The

floral shop even offered deliveries within a 10 mile radius of the store to shoppers who could not pick up their flowers in-store. After processing thousands of flowers and setting out hundreds of other Valentine&#39;s Day-related products, the NEX employees succeeded in their goal of preparing and selling items for Valentine’s Day selling more than 800 handmade arrangements and thousands of roses. The NEX employees look toward their next big retail push and are excited to continue offering world class service and products to their patrons. “Serving our service members, veterans and families is an absolute honor,” said Spruiell. “We look forward to continuing to provide top quality service to our patrons.”

JOB IS WAITING careers.tribpub.com

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

THANKS TO ALL THE BRAVE MEN AND WOMEN FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY.

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 1

uarterdeck

Special Ops Command sees change in mission as a return to roots U.S. Special Operations Command leaders see the current move to integrate the command into great power competition as a return to its roots. Page B3

Newly graduated U.S. Space Force Guardians present the U.S. Space Force Family lapel pin to family members during a Basic Military Training graduation ceremony at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, Texas, Dec. 27, 2023. In a move that celebrates both the service members and their families, graduating Guardians will now present the Delta-shaped U.S. Space Force Family lapel pins to their loved ones during graduation week. (U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTOS BY 2ND LT. KATE E. ANDERSON)

Space Force Basic Military Training launches new graduation tradition By 1st Lt. Charles Rivezzo

Space Training and Readiness Command Public Affairs

The U.S. Space Force has introduced a meaningful new tradition to its Basic Military Training graduation ceremonies. In a move that celebrates both the service members and their families, graduating Guardians will now present Delta-shaped U.S. Space Force Family lapel pins to their loved ones during graduation week. This gesture, which began on Dec. 27, 2023, in conjunction with the U.S. Space Force’s fourth birthday, symbolizes the deep connection between the Guardians and their supportive families. The idea for this tradition emerged from

a broader discussion within Space Training and Readiness Command’s Delta 1, the Space Force Delta responsible for overseeing BMT and follow-on initial skills training. The new tradition is aimed at enhancing the BMT experience and fostering a closer connection with families, said U.S. Space Force Maj. Clinton Emry, 1st Delta Operations Squadron, Det. 1 commander. “This event goes back to a fundamental part of our training methodology,” Emry said. “Unlike other branches of service, we don’t break members down only to build them back up. Instead, we take what ‘mom and dad’ from main street America have nurtured: smart, creative, and talented individuals. Our mission is to train them, inspire them, and motivate them to new levels, to

build a Guardian. This pinning ceremony is our opportunity to extend our gratitude to those family members, acknowledging their critical role in shaping the individuals who will become the backbone of the Space Force.” Witnessing the ﬁrst-ever family pinning ceremony, Emry said families receiving these pins expressed immense pride and appreciation. “They have a piece of BMT and their Guardian’s journey now,” he said. “Having this connection start right from the very beginning of a Guardian’s military journey is crucial.” Moreover, he added that this token of recognition extends the spirit of the Space Force into communities, symbolizing not

just the achievements of their Guardian but also the enduring support of their families. “They will wear their pins back in their hometowns and the pride of sharing ‘my family member is in the Space Force’ will help generate propensity and hopefully inspire future Guardians to enlist,” he said. “Those hometowns are the ‘why’ we serve in the ﬁrst place. We protect and defend the Constitution and our way of life.” This initiative aligns with the broader vision of the Space Force, reinforcing the bond between the service, its members, and their families from the outset. The pins were designed and underwritten through a grant from the Air Force Association’s United Forces and Families program.

NATO military spending has steadily increased By David Vergun DOD News

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said in a statement that NATO has projected 18 allies will spend at least 2% of their gross domestic product on defense this year, and those not spending at least 2% should have plans to swiftly meet that target. “I welcome what [NATO] Secretary General Stoltenberg yesterday called an ‘unprecedented rise’ in defense spending across our European and Canadian allies, who have added more than $600 billion for defense since the Defense Investment Pledge was made in 2014, including a real increase of 11% in defense spending in 2023 alone,” Austin said in today’s statement. “The secretary general projects that in 2024, 18 allies will spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense — a major improvement over 2014, when only three hit that target. Any ally not spending at least 2% of GDP on defense this year should have plans to swiftly meet that target.” Austin said he was pleased by the progress the U.S. and allies made at today’s meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels and underscored the importance of the alliance to U.S. security. “NATO is the strongest military alliance in history, and it is crucial for America’s continued security,” he said in the statement. Austin said NATO became even more capable last year when Finland joined the

Sign outside the Pentagon, May 7, 2019. (PHOTO BY LISA FERDINANDO, DOD)

alliance, and he again urged Hungary to support Sweden’s entrance into the alliance. “I again urge Hungary to support immediate NATO accession for Sweden, which is both a stalwart democracy and a hugely capable defense partner,” he said. Austin also said the United States and its allies and partners will stand by Ukraine for the long haul.

“The United States will continue to stand with our NATO allies and to defend the sovereignty and the territory of every alliance member — every inch of it,” Austin said. “Our commitment to Article Five remains ironclad.” Austin’s statement also mentioned a productive meeting among allies, the European Union and Ukraine in the recently

established NATO-Ukraine Council. The Comprehensive Assistance Package — NATO’s multiyear program for critical, nonlethal aid — also supports Ukraine, he said. That effort complements the more than $87 billion in bilateral security assistance the United States and countries around the world have committed over the past two years to help Ukraine defend itself from Russia’s unprovoked aggression. Austin returned to work at the Pentagon today after working from home since his release from Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Feb. 13. Separately, Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder at a news conference today, said the Missile Defense Agency and the Space Development Agency yesterday launched six satellites into low Earth orbit from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The satellites, which include two satellites for MDA’s hypersonic and ballistic tracking space sensor and four SDA tracking layer satellites, are conducting initial testing, he said. The launch of the two prototype systems will be followed by two years of on-orbit testing, Ryder noted. Over the next few weeks, SDA and MDA engineers will run a series of tests and checkout procedures to ensure the satellites are operating and communicating with the other systems, he said.

The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

Q: What types of family housing are available? A: There are three types of housing available to families:

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg tells reporters at a news conference that the European allies and Canada have met the 2% goal for defense spending, but more is needed. Brussels, Feb. 14, 2024. (PHOTO BY NATO PHOTO)

NATO Ministers to discuss Ukraine, spending, deterrence at Brussels meeting By Jim Garamone DOD News

Russia’s war in Ukraine, NATO spending, progress in meeting the goals of the Vilnius Summit and preparations for the Washington Summit this summer are on the agenda for the NATO Defense Ministers Meeting, said NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at a news conference in Brussels today. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III is not attending the meeting due to health reasons. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Julianne Smith will represent the secretary at the ministerial. Celeste Wallander, assistant secretary of defense for international security affairs, will assist her. At the Vilnius Summit, allies pledged to strengthen defense and deterrence, and this requires investment. Overall, European allies are meeting the alliance investment pledge of 2% of gross domestic product for defense, Stoltenberg said. The secretary general announced the latest ﬁgures. “Since the Investment Pledge was made in 2014, European allies and Canada have added more than 600 billion U.S. dollars for defense,” he said.

Just last year, the European allies and Canada increased their investments by 11%. “This year, I expect 18 allies to spend 2% of their GDP on defense,” he said. In 2014, when Russia illegally annexed Crimea from Ukraine, only three NATO allies were at the 2% level. “In 2024, NATO allies in Europe will invest a combined total of $380 billion in defense,” Stoltenberg said. “For the first time, this amounts to 2% of their combined GDP.” While this is progress, more is needed, he said. He noted that the 2% goal is now not a goal, but the minimum countries should invest. “At the ministerial, we will also discuss further ramping up production of ammunition,” the secretary general said. “In the past few months, NATO has agreed contracts worth $10 billion. And just this week, Germany launched construction for a new ammunition factory in lower Saxony.” The ministers will also review new alliance defense plans that are being tested in Exercise Steadfast Defender, the largest NATO exercise since before the fall of the Berlin Wall. The exercise includes all 31 allies and Sweden.

“We can never take peace for granted, but there is no imminent military threat against any NATO ally,” Stoltenberg said. “NATO will continue to ensure that there is no room for miscalculation in Moscow about our readiness and resolve to protect all allies.” The defense ministers will also participate in a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council, that will follow the U.S.-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group. “Both of these meetings will focus on our support,” the secretary general said. “We continue to help Ukraine move closer to NATO standards on everything from procurement to logistics, and allies continue to make major deliveries of weapons, equipment and ammunition. This support makes a real difference. “With our help, the brave Ukrainians have retaken half of the territory that Russia seized, opened a corridor in the Black Sea and are inﬂicting heavy losses on Russian forces.” Stoltenberg welcomed the European Union’s pledge of aid to Ukraine and called on the U.S. Congress to follow suit. “This is not charity,” he said. “It is an investment in our own security.”

Courtesy Story

The Department of Defense today released its Resilient and Healthy Defense Communities (RHDC) Strategy, which will guide the Department’s actions in the coming years to improve the built and natural environment on defense installations. Directly supporting the Secretary of Defense’s priority to take care of our people, the strategy focuses on improving the quality of life for Service members, their families, and the DoD civilian workforce. “It is both a national security imperative and our moral obligation to ensure the spaces where our people live, work, and train are healthy, functional, and resilient,” said Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks. “This strategy focusing on improving our defense installations reﬂects the Department’s ongoing commitment to take care of our people and improve the quality of life of our Service members and their families. It ensures we put our people’s experiences at the very center of our recruit and retain approach.” 280,000 buildings across 538 installations and approximately 26 million acres of land

support the Department’s more than two million military and civilian personnel and their families. These built and natural spaces are central to their military experience, affecting their physical and mental health, ability to carry out their missions, and the overall recruitment and retention of the force. “Our military and civilian workforce rightfully expects a place to live and work that enhances their quality of life,” said Dr. William LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. “We owe it to our Service members and their families to honor the sacriﬁces they are voluntarily making by creating environments that help our total force bring their best self to the mission—and this strategy will help ensure we are aligning our resources to outcomes which do exactly that.” While the strategy acknowledges that improving the Department’s vast infrastructure footprint is a signiﬁcant undertaking, it recognizes the opportunity to reduce the gap that persists between installation conditions today and the quality standards Service members and their families deserve. To do so, the strategy aims to focus

efforts on three ways: 1. Adopting human-centered requirements to help create environments that do not just meet utilitarian needs and compliance standards, but promote purpose, productivity, and camaraderie. 2. Optimizing the Department’s footprint to ensure the scale and scope of its infrastructure is aligned with the needs of DoD’s people and their mission. 3. Transforming how the Department manages its portfolio by adopting a sustainment management strategy to help target investments that have the greatest impact on the condition of DoD facilities. “This strategy represents an important step forward for the Department and our people, but it is a starting point rather than a ﬁnish line,” Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment Brendan Owens added. “We have a lot of hard work ahead of us and I look forward to continued partnership across each of the Military Services to ﬁnalize the RHDC implementation plan and subsequently execute it relentlessly.”

U.S. Navy joins Arctic Specialist 2024 in Norway By U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/ U.SS. 6th Fleet Public Affairs RASMUND, Norway — Sailors from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Unit (MU) Eight, attached to Commander Task Force (CTF) 68 at Naval Station Rota, Spain, began the annual Norway-hosted exercise Arctic Specialist 2024 in Ramsund, Norway, Feb. 5, 2024. Arctic Specialist is an annual multinational EOD and mine countermeasures (MCM) exercise aimed to provide training, exercise and development of land and mari-

time EOD Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) at the squad and team level in a cold-weather environment. This exercise is designed to enhance capability and interoperability among participating nations. Forces from Denmark will also participate in Arctic Specialist. EODMU Eight’s MCM Company Commander Lt. Daniel Haines said, “We rely on our experts in the High North to further expand our operations into the Arctic. Exercises like Arctic Specialist allow us to continue improving our collective security by conducting increasingly complex and high-

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DOD releases Resilient and Healthy Defense Communities Strategy

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end missions with our Allies.” During the 11-day exercise, EOD and MCM forces will share TTPS for countering regional and global security threats. CTF-68 commands all naval expeditionary forces in the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility in direct support of U.S. Naval Forces Europe -Africa, and U.S. 6th Fleet. U.S. 6th Fleet conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, joint, and inter-agency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 3

Special forces students participate in an iWaterman Maritime Reconnaissance Vehicle course at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Jan. 31, 2024. iWaterman is a program that teaches students how to utilize the MRV for tactical insertions, extractions and rescues in high surf and over-the-beach operations. (U.S. MARINE CORPS PHOTO BY SGT. JULIAN ELLIOTT-DROUIN)

Special Ops Command sees change in mission as a return to roots

By Jim Garamone DOD News

U.S. Special Operations Command leaders see the current move to integrate the command into great power competition as a return to its roots. Army Gen. Bryan Fenton and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Shane Shorter, the commander and senior enlisted leader of Socom, spoke with the Defense Writers Group recently and discussed the changes happening in the world and Special Operations Command’s place in it. The command has come off more than 20 years as America’s preeminent counterterrorism organization. Even before the attacks on the United States in September 2001, the command was tracking and pursuing violent extremist organizations around the world. The command operated against narco-trafficking gangs in Central and South America, as well as transnational criminal organizations in the Balkans. Socom came into its own in counterterrorism in operations against the Taliban and al-Qaida in Afghanistan, fundamentalist groups in Iraq and against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. Special operators also worked with and formed relationships with national and indigenous forces from the Indo-Paciﬁc to Europe to Africa and South America.

But before that, the special operations community was an integral part of great power competition working to “ﬁll in the gaps” of conventional power structures when the Soviet Union controlled Eastern Europe, Fenton said. “We still have to maintain and stay on the [violent extremist organization] threat because it has not gone away. What I will tell you is … the special operations command team frankly is born for the integrated deterrence, great power competition era.” But while the mission set might be changing, the values behind the force are not. “The most important line of effort that we have in our headquarters is still our people,” said Shorter. “We’re not a platform-centric organization, we’re a people-centric organization.” The ﬁrst rule of the command is “Humans are more important than equipment,” and Fenton and Shorter are sticking with that. Change is tough. Many in the command grew up in the organization when it was sometimes jokingly called “Counter Terrorism Command” and that is what they know. But Shorter said in travels around the command, service members are making the switch to great power competition and integrated deterrence. “We focused hard on the global war on terror, and I’m very proud of what we did, but we’ve never had [to] … pull ‘Socomians’ towards the nation’s main

effort.” So the bulk of the forces is absolutely laser focused on great power competition and integrated deterrence, Shorter said. Special operators are studying China and Russia. They are taking lessons learned from Russia’s war on Ukraine. They are studying the nature of all-domain combat and applying new tactics, techniques and procedures to it. They are also looking at better ways to integrate new technologies and equipment into the ﬁght, the command sergeant major said. “We always will be focused on the nation’s priorities and the department’s priorities,” Shorter said. Still, the experience of counterinsurgency combat is valuable, and special operators can take that experience and apply it to new situations and new missions, he said. Fenton said that people lead in the strategic priorities of the command. “If we have one more dollar to spend, we’re spending it on our people, and then we’ll wrap the technology around them,” he said. That idea is born in the people attracted to special operations. Service members “go through a rigorous assessment selection process, and more arduous training because they really want to be at the leading edge,” Fenton said. Transformation of the command also is all about people, the general said. Special

operators must “think how we’re going to be prepared, not only in equipment or some level of technology to meet the world, but how are we thinking about the world differently,” he said. “We have to hold these different ideas in our head and actually still complete the mission, even though it doesn’t look the same as it did 20 years ago. But the outcome has still got to be the same. We’ve got to succeed for the nation.” Typically, when a counterterrorism mission ends, organizations put the capability on the back burner. In the United States, this happened at the end of the Vietnam War and there are moves to cut the number of special operations personnel. This hits at another Special Operations truth: Special operations cannot be mass produced in times of a crisis. The services, from whom Socom gets their recruits, are having trouble attracting new service members. Fenton said Socom has not felt that problem yet, but says it could happen further down the road. Fenton did say there is no retention problem in special operations, and that the command is already working with the services to improve the recruiting climate. He has asked members of the command to reach out to recruiters when they travel in the United States to inform the American people about the military in general and Special Operations Command in particular.

National Guard Bureau leaders say taking care of Guardsmen is key to meeting mission at home, abroad

By Joseph Clark DOD News

Taking care of those serving on the front lines both at home and abroad is critical as the National Guard meets its mission, the force’s top leaders said today. Army Gen. Daniel R. Hokanson, chief of the National Guard Bureau, said that as the global security landscape has become increasingly complex, the National Guard continues to fill its role as an indispensable warfighting force, while at the same time responding in times of crisis at home. “With an aggressive China asserting influence in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe, a belligerent Russia invading a peaceful neighbor, North Korea developing long-range offensive weapons, and numerous violent nonstate actors at work in the Middle East and beyond, the mission of the National Guard and the capabilities we bring to the fight have never been more important,” Hokanson said during a briefing at the Pentagon. Hokanson was joined by Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of the National Guard Bureau Tony L. Whitehead in laying out the National Guard’s priorities for 2024. The leaders underscored the impact that the soldiers and airmen who comprise the force have every day across the globe and in their communities. “To be clear, our National Guard exists to fight and win our nation’s wars,” Hokanson said. “That is the primary mission for our 430,000 soldiers and airmen across all 50 states, three territories and the District of Columbia.” He added that those warfighters bring critical capabilities to the fight across domains and in theaters throughout the world. “We do everything from deploying combat formations around the globe to missile defense of the homeland, protecting cyberspace, and conducting space operations — and, at the same time, we respond to disas-

Search and rescue soldiers and airmen assist Maui County and state officials in search and recovery efforts in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, Aug. 10, 2023. The guardsmen mobilized after a wildﬁre struck Maui. (PHOTO BY NATIONAL GUARD MASTER SGT. ANDREW JACKSON)

ters in our communities,” Hokanson said. “Today, nearly 45,000 Army and Air guardsmen are mobilized performing missions in support of our combatant commanders, and more than 27,000 of them are serving overseas.” “Simply put: America cannot execute its National Defense Strategy without the National Guard,” he said. Hokanson said the National Guard’s warﬁghting capabilities have been on full display over the past year, highlighting a recent trip to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility where he met with Ukrainian troops who were training with National Guardsmen. “They were just the latest of over 7,500 soldiers from 19 different Ukrainian battalions receiving training from our [National] Guardsmen,” he said.

He noted that the Mississippi National Guard recently replaced the Arkansas National Guard in continuing to build Ukraine’s combat capability amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. In addition to maintaining their warfighting focus, the Guard continues to fulﬁll its critical humanitarian mission in local communities throughout the U.S. “As you see in the headlines from California this week, the National Guard is making a difference and helping save lives in our communities every single day,” he said. “In the National Guard, this is business as usual. Our communities expect it, and so do we.” Both leaders noted the sacriﬁces National Guard members and their families make in meeting the mission. Whitehead said he remains laser focused on ensuring service members have access to

the resources they need to remain resilient in the face of the demands of their service. That includes efforts to reduce the stigma that surrounds seeking mental health services. “Deployed service members often face traumatic experiences and daily struggles, which can adversely affect their mental health,” he said. “These experiences may not show their effects until the service member returns home and tries adjusting back to their everyday lives. Whitehead said he remains committed to ensuring all National Guardsmen who face traumatic experiences as part of their service receive the assistance they need. Hokanson said supporting those on the front lines is foundational to the National Guard meeting its mission. “Our leaders wake up each day ever mindful of the responsibility to ensure our more than 430,000 National Guardsmen are the best-trained and most ready combat reserve our nation can muster,” Hokanson said. “By taking care of our people, maintaining our readiness, modernizing, and embracing reform, we will do just that and continue to keep our promise to America to be ‘always ready, always there.’ ” The dedication and sacrifice by the women and men who meet that mission day in and day out became tragically clear last month when a deadly drone attack launched by an Iran-backed militant group against U.S. forces in Jordan killed three service members and injured dozens more. Among those injured in the attack were 41 National Guard service members, 30 of whom have been cleared to return to active duty. Hokanson and Whitehead expressed their deepest sympathies to the families of those killed and injured in the attack. “It is a reminder the National Guard serves alongside our active duty and reserve teammates on the front lines as an operational force in a turbulent and ever-changing global security environment,” Hokanson said.

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LITTLE FALLS, Minn. (Jan. 31, 2024) – U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technicians assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2 and U.S. Air Force EOD Technicians assigned to the 148th Fighter Wing EOD Flight pose for a photo as part of Snow Crab Exercise 24-1. SNOWCRABEX is an annual exercise designed to test and evaluate U.S. Navy EOD and Navy Diver’s capabilities and equipment in a simulated arctic environment and improve combat effectiveness. Navy EOD and Navy Divers are part of the Navy Expeditionary Combat Force (NECF), enabling the U.S. Navy Fleet by clearing and protecting the battlespace. (U.S. NAVY PHOTOS BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 1ST CLASS JACOB D. BERGH/RELEASED)

Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal concludes Arctic training exercise Snow Crab Ex By Lt. Chelsea Cannaday

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group Two Public Affairs

LITTLE FALLS, Minn.— U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2 completed Snow Crab Exercise (Snow Crab Ex) 24-1 Feb. 4, 2024 following the departure of Navy EOD units and Navy Divers at Camp Ripley in Little Falls, Minnesota. Snow Crab Ex is a two-week exercise designed to test and evaluate U.S. Navy EOD capabilities in a simulated Arctic environment and, ultimately, improve Navy EOD’s combat effectiveness. During the exercise, U.S. Navy EOD and Divers tested, evaluated, and reﬁned tactics, equipment and operations in an austere environment. “The Arctic region is undergoing a dramatic transformation, and our Navy EOD, diving and salvage forces are trained and prepared to deploy globally to support of the Fleet commanders. To this end, the EOD force will continue to develop and evolve our capabilities to contribute to U.S. national security in competition and conﬂict,” said Capt. Karl Haywood, commander, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2. “SnowCrabEx trained Navy EOD, diving and salvage forces to better operate and survive in the challenging Arctic environment. The training we conduct in austere environments simulates combat environments and contains inherent risk so that our forces are prepared to face any threat or challenge.” U.S. Navy forces must be able to operate

in the Arctic because “the United States is an Arctic nation, which instills responsibility for the stewardship and protection of this region,” according to the White House’s National Strategy for the Arctic Region. During Snow Crab Ex, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 12 and Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 exercised tactical control over EODMU 12 and EODMU 2, as well as MDSU 2. “Snow Crab Ex is a valuable exercise to focus on tactics and equipment needed to operate in Arctic conditions,” said Cmdr. Garrett Pankow, commander, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2. “The Arctic presents challenging conditions, and the lessons learned from Snow Crab Ex will improve Navy EOD and mobile diving and salvage teams’ readiness to operate quickly and efficiently anywhere, anytime, including cold weather environments.” Navy EOD cleared simulated unexploded ordnance, secured critical infrastructure, learned critical arctic survivability and mobility skills, and effectively communicated between distributed operating units in a training environment, while also maintaining command and control (C2) of forces. “The demolition ranges we typically have access to don’t allow the same range of capabilities. Being in a new environment, and the realistic use of live unexploded ordnance here, built on our previous training and is critical to building conﬁdence and competence for our platoons,” said Explosive Ordnance Disposal Senior Chief Calvin

Quinn, lead chief petty officer of EODMU 12. “Every place is different; every piece of ordnance is different. This exercise gave us real-life training on what we simulate all the time.” Navy Divers also successfully completed ice dive training, completed arctic survivability and mobility training, and utilized specialized equipment like the VR Defender, an unmanned underwater vehicle that provides Sailors increased safety and dwell time when inspecting or surveying the underwater environment. The unique training environment at Camp Ripley allowed Navy divers to expand their capabilities for diving and salvage to an arctic environment. “Ice diving operations at Snow Crab Ex gave us a unique opportunity to get hands on, real world experience and knowledge that you just can’t simulate in a pool,” said Navy Diver 1st Class Keenan Foley, a diver assigned to EODMU 3. “The diver’s motto is, ‘Improvise, Adapt, Overcome.’ Diving under the ice introduced new elements to adapt to during arctic salvage operations.” The MDSU teams are uniquely qualiﬁed to support this type of mission. Foley and the other divers used dry suits designed to protect divers against hypothermia while submerged in 30-degree water. The team also used a dual manifold/dual regulator system to ensure they could continue to breathe from their tanks if one of their regulators froze over and a special tool that helped keep everyone safe underwater. The Minnesota National Guard provided

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. (Jan. 24, 2024) – A U.S. Navy Diver assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 conducts an ice diving evolution in simulated arctic waters as part of Snow Crab Exercise 24-1.

air support for portions of the exercise. Air Force EOD Technicians from the 148th Fighter Wing Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Flight provided support to demolition training and operations. The U.S. Navy routinely patrols on, above, below and around Arctic waters to ensure the security of commerce and demonstrate freedom of navigation. Exercises like Snow Crab Ex 24-1 allow our teams to assess their readiness, increase their experience in the region, test new technologies, and advance our understanding of the Arctic environment. Other Navy Expeditionary Combat Command units that participated in Snow Crab Ex 24-1 included: EOD Expeditionary Support Unit (EODESU) 2, Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 4, Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group (NAVELSG) and Navy Expeditionary Intelligence Command (NEIC). All participating Navy units are headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story with the exception of NEIC, headquartered on Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex and NAVELSG, headquartered on Naval Weapons Station Yorktown. EODGRU 2 operates as part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and provides skilled, capable, and combat-ready deployable Navy EOD and Navy Diver forces around the globe to support a range of operations.

LITTLE FALLS, Minn. (Jan. 25, 2024) – A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 4 conducts arctic survivability training as part of Snow Crab Exercise 24-1.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 7

Defense ministers begin deliberations at NATO headquarters, Feb. 15, 2024. (PHOTO BY NATO)

NATO leader highlights programs to increase defense, deterrence By Jim Garamone DOD News

Steps to secure NATO and aid Ukraine were at the heart of discussions defense ministers held at NATO headquarters today, said alliance leader Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. The defense ministers also discussed the general security environment almost two years since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. “We can never take peace for granted, but we do not see any imminent military threat against the alliance,” Stoltenberg said. “NATO continues to ensure there is no room for miscalculation in Moscow about our readiness to protect all allies.” Since Russia ﬁrst invaded Ukraine in 2014, the NATO allies have signiﬁcantly strengthened the alliance’s deterrence and defense. NATO leaders agreed to revamp alliance defense plans at the Vilnius summit in Lithuania last year, and the defense ministers reviewed those steps in preparation for the summit in Washington in July. That summit

will mark the 75th anniversary of the Washington Treaty that established the defensive alliance. At today’s meeting, the ministers were briefed about NATO’s Exercise Steadfast Defender, the largest NATO exercise in decades. About 90,000 service members from the 31 allies and Sweden are participating. The exercise, which began Jan. 24 and continues for four months, aims to test the new defense plans and the ability of the alliance “to swiftly move forces across the alliance to defend our eastern ﬂank,” Stoltenberg said. The defense ministers “accelerated work on resourcing our new defense plans and strengthening our transatlantic defense industrial base,” the secretary general said. “This requires investment, and we are on the right track. I expect 18 allies to spend 2% of their GDP on defense this year, a six-fold increase from only three allies in 2014.” The European allies and Canada are on track to spend $380 billion on defense in 2024, which is 2% of the combined gross

domestic product of those countries. “We still have a way to go, but we have already made historic progress,” he said. The defense ministers also discussed moves to ramp up ammunition production to resupply NATO nations and continue to support Ukraine. “We need to shift from the slow pace of peacetime to the high-tempo production demanded by conﬂict,” he said. “To do that, manufacturers need signed contracts, and just in the past few months, NATO has agreed to contracts worth $10 billion. This helps Ukraine, makes NATO stronger, and provides more highly skilled jobs in Europe and North America.” Stoltenberg said the ministerial featured a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council. The ministers heard from Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who briefed them on the latest developments on the ground. They also discussed the importance of continued support. “Just in the past few days, we have seen new packages of aid announced by allies, including Canada, Finland and Norway,” Stoltenberg said.

These packages include F-16 equipment and spare parts and air defense capabilities. “A group of allies is coming together with the goal of delivering one million drones to Ukraine,” he said. “Twenty NATO allies have also agreed to form a demining coalition. All of this will help to save Ukrainian lives.” Since Russia’s invasion, the United States has provided Ukraine with around $75 billion in military, ﬁnancial and humanitarian aid. “Other NATO allies and partners have provided over $100 billion,” the secretary general said. “So, our support is an example of true transatlantic burden-sharing, and it is making a real difference every day.” Stoltenberg announced that the defense ministers agreed to place a new NATOUkraine Joint Analysis, Training and Education Center in Bydgoszcz, Poland. “It will allow Ukraine to share lessons learned from Russia’s war,” he said. “And it will create a structure for Ukrainian forces to learn and train alongside their allied counterparts.”

Austin affirms U.S.-led coalition stands with Ukraine By Joseph Clark DOD News

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III affirmed today the unwavering resolve among the U.S. and its partners in support of Ukraine. Marking two years since Russia’s unprovoked invasion, Austin said the U.S.-led Ukraine Defense Contact Group continues to stand united in common purpose to support Ukraine’s short- and long-term battlefield needs. “When [Russian President Vladimir] Putin launched his unjust and unprovoked war of choice, he was betting that Ukraine would fold,” Austin said as he kicked off a virtual meeting of the UDCG from Washington. “But he couldn’t have been more wrong.” The secretary praised the courage and skill with which Ukraine has fought back against Russia’s full-scale invasion and the determination of international partners who have rallied in support of Ukraine’s defenders. “The countries of this contact group, almost two years later, are still united in common purpose,” Austin said. “The Kremlin keeps on betting that we will all lose interest in Ukraine, and that our support will flicker and fade, but I am more determined than ever. “This contact group remains resolute, undaunted and firm,” he said. Today’s meeting marked the 19th iteration of the UDCG, a U.S.-led coalition comprising nearly 50 countries. It comes amid continuing negotiations on Capitol Hill over President Joe Biden’s request to Congress to continue critical funding for military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine. Earlier this week, the Senate approved a supplemental funding measure which would include additional funds for Ukraine security assistance in addition to providing urgent support for Israel following the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas terrorists along with

A service member loads weapons cargo bound for Ukraine onto a C-17 Globemaster III during a security assistance mission at Dover Air Force Base, Del., Sept. 14, 2022. (U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO BY STAFF SGT. MARCO A. GOMEZ)

humanitarian support for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. The measure also provides additional resources for U.S. Central Command to deter attacks by Iranian-backed militia groups and protect vessels operating in the Red Sea from attacks by Houthi rebels. In a statement yesterday, Austin applauded the Senate passage and urged the

House to pass the measure. “The need for this supplemental [funding] may be most urgently felt in Ukraine,” Austin said. “Top Ukrainian defense officials have already warned us that their units no longer have the stores of ammunition that they need to hold off Putin’s invading forces.” In his remarks ahead of the UDCG, Austin further emphasized the imperative

to continue to support Ukraine, warning that the outcome of the fight against Russia’s aggression will define global security for decades. “For people of principle and governments of conscience, standing aside while Ukraine fights for its very existence is not an option,” he said. “Ukraine will not surrender, and neither will we.”

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8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

On iberty

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 1

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The North American Tour Boleyn Company of SIX. (PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS)

The Broadway National Tour of SIX the Musical comes to Chrysler Hall February 27th-March 3rd, Zan Berube (Anne Boleyn) tells us about it Interview By Yiorgo What an exciting time to be a musical theatre fan. SevenVenues Broadway in Norfolk series is proud to bring SIX to Chrysler Hall February 27th - March 3rd. SIX the Musical has won 23 awards in the 202½022 Broadway season, including the Tony Award® for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critics Pick) and The Washington Post hails SIX as “Exactly the kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!” Recommended for ages 10 and up, SIX has a running time of 80 minutes with no intermission. Get your tickets now before they run out at https://www.sevenvenues.com/events/ detail/six Yiorgo: With us today by phone is Zan Berube who plays Anne Boleyn in SIX. Tell

us Zan, why should people come to the show, what will they see, hear and experience? Zan Berube: SIX The Musical is a show for everyone. It is a super exciting, pop rock, concert style show that is telling a new story, a new spin on history and for those coming to see the show, they are now a part of the queendom. Also the show is really different every time they see it, regardless if the cast is different or the same. The audience that is there every night, they change the show for us as well, because they bring their own energy and the people coming to see the show love that. Also, if you like women supporting other women, this is the show for you, so come see it. Y: Without giving too much away, what is the story about? ZB: SIX the Musical is a retelling and a reclaiming of the six wives of Henry VIII. It is their stories from their perspectives and point of view instead of history telling it from Henry’s perspective. They get to tell what

their lives were actually like. And of course it’s in that pop rock setting so it’s deﬁnitely that different, exciting, retelling of history in a way that has never been done before. Y: How accurate or faithful historically are the characters? ZB: We are very historically accurate with the characters. A lot of work and research has gone into this play to make sure their story is told with accuracy, respect and reverence. Y: Who do you play and how did you prepare? Did you do any historical research about Anne? ZB: I play Anne Boleyn, the Queen in green and yes I did a lot of research about her. I like the fact that she is not afraid to express her truth while using her own voice and stands in her own power. Y: Tell us about the cast. ZB: We are a nonbinary all female cast and we support and love each other. There’s an energy that we bring to the stage and the

back and forth we have with each other is an absolute blast. And for us to get to do that and perform in Tony award winning costumes with music and lyrics that are genius, well that’s just the icing on the cake. Also, by traveling the country together, we really have become a family. Y: Speaking of traveling the country, what has that been like to be living the gypsy life? ZB: It’s been great. This is my very ﬁrst national tour that I got right after I graduated from The University of Michigan (go blue) in 2020. We are a small cast and crew and we quickly bonded together. They took me under their wings and here I am, over 500 shows later having the time of my life. As we speak, we are in Anchorage, Alaska and I am looking at the most beautiful view out of my window. I’ll be going sightseeing later with my friends and of course continue with our performances. We are here through Turn to SIX the Musical, Page 2

Exploring Virginia’s Waterways and the Underground Railroad Lecture and book signing with Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander Press Release NORFOLK, Va. — The Slover Library Foundation, on behalf of the Brinkley Family Memorial Lecture Series, proudly presents an enlightening lecture on “Virginia Waterways and the Underground Railroad” with Dr. Cassandra L. Newby-Alexander on Thursday, Feb. 22, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Slover (235 E. Plume St., Norfolk). From the time enslaved Virginians were ﬁrst brought to the Jamestown Colony in 1619, they sought freedom. Acts of self-emancipation were aided by Virginia’s waterways, which became part of the Underground Railroad network in the years before the Civil War. Watermen who were willing to help escaped slaves made eighteenth-century Norfolk a haven for freedom seekers, with enslaved individuals serving as conductors, and black and white sympathizers acting as station masters. Newby-Alexander, Endowed Professor of Virginia Black History and Culture at Norfolk State University, will share compelling narratives of individuals who navigated these waterways, seeking humanity’s dream of freedom amidst the harsh realities of enslavement. This event is free and open to the public and includes hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Books will be available for purchase and signing after the lecture. Online registration is encouraged but not required at https://bit. ly/3OCgQEv. About The Slover Library Foundation: The purpose of the Slover Library Guild is to support the library’s mission of creating a free and inclusive place where Hampton Roads residents can join together, share ideas, and learn from each other. The Slover will host special events that entertain, educate, and offer opportunities for civil discourse on topics important to our region. About the Brinkley Family Memorial Lecture Series: Catherine “Kate” Lee Brinkley was a professional librarian at the City of Norfolk’s Kirn Memorial Library, dedicated to educating the citizens of Norfolk through the many services and programs of the Norfolk Public Library system. This lecture series, named in her honor, brings authors to Norfolk, and is sponsored by Jane Batten to keep the spirit of community discourse about current events alive and to celebrate recently published books of national note. Book signings are available at all lectures and are free and open to the public.

Dr. Cassandra L. NewbyAlexander is the author of “Virginia Waterways and the Underground Railroad.” (COURTESY PHOTOS)

INSIDE: Check out Flagship Values, your source for automobiles, employment, real estate and more! Pages C6-7

The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

Community SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS, NEWS AND PHOTOS

The Flagship welcomes submissions from our readers online. Please submit events here: www.militarynews.com/users/admin/calendar/event/ Please submit news and photos here: www.militarynews.com/norfolk-navy-ﬂagship/submit_news/

The Mariners Museum invites you to the Battle of Hampton Roads Commemoration Day

By Teresa Walter

On Saturday March 9, Spend a historic day with us as we partner with the NOAA Monitor National Marine Sanctuary to commemorate the Battle of Hampton Roads. Meet our Mariners’ team and NOAA representatives, learn more about the monumental battle, hear inspiring stories of Monitor and its crew, and enjoy interactive activities ﬁlled with history, science, and technology! Commemoration Davy events are from 10a.m. - 3p.m. and are free for members. Admission is only $1 for non members.

Exciting experiences include: See Monitor’s skeg beam up close for the ﬁrst time since it was launched on January 30, 1862. Participate in an interactive session with Dr. Jonathan White as he discusses his book, My Day with Abe Lincoln. Join NOAA for an underwater ROV activity in Virginia Courtyard and watch footage of USS Monitor. Complete a fun science activity with our Education team. Take your turn at being a code-breaker like a Union soldier. Collect clues to a specially crafted scavenger hunt and solve for a prize. Explore the galleries and meet our Mariners’ team as they interpret artifacts throughout the Museum. Attend “Duel of Ironclads” lecture presented by John V. Quarstein, Director emeritus of the USS Monitor Center in the Explorers Theater at Noon. Listen as the USS Monitor arrived in Hampton Roads during the early evening of March 8, 1862. The Union ironclad was too late to stop the rampage of the Confederate ironclad CSS Virginia. USS Congress sent an eerie glow across the harbor luminating the devastation wrought by CSS Virginia earlier that

USS Monitor and Merrimac, 1st Fight between Ironclads. J.O. Davidson, artist. (COURTESY THE MARINERS’MUSEUM, 1945.0427.00000)

day. Monitor was given the task of protecting the grounded frigate USS Minnesota against the Confederate ironclad ram’s attack on the morrow. On the morning of March 9, 1862, Lt. John L. Worden, captain of the untried USS Monitor, proved his ship to be a success as the Union warship stopped Virginia from damaging any more Union wooden warships. This drawn engagement was the ﬁrst battle between iron ships of war and

made Monitor into the little ship that saved the nation. “Duel of Ironclads” lecture is also livestreamed and free to watch online. In person seating is limited. Registration is required whether you attend in person or virtually. Register online at www.marinersmuseum. org/event/duel-of-ironclads/ While the Mariners’ Cafe is under renovation, plan to enjoy Southern Hospitality’s

food truck will be stationed at the front of the Museum. The Mariners’ Museum and Park is located at 100 Museum Drive Newport News, VA 23606. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. The park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. For more information visit www.marinersmuseum.org or call 757-596-2222

Zan Berube as Anne Boleyn (center) in The North American Tour Boleyn Company of SIX. (PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS)

SIX the Musical from Page 1

February 25th, one day of travel and we open at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, Virginia from February 27th-March 3rd. I can’t wait to be there. Y: Out of the six queens who do you identify with the most? ZB: With all the research that I have done on Anne, I have gotten to know her very well and I really do identify with her the most. It is so empowering to tell Anne’s story with that fun spin of pop rock format and share so many facts about her. And that is really true about all of the queens. The audience will learn so much about each one of the six queens that they did not know before. Y: Can you share a fun anecdote about the show and the beauty of live theatre? ZB: Oh yes indeed. I was in my second week of the show and right smack in the middle of one of the numbers, it’s my turn to sing and the power goes out. We looked at each other, nodded in agreement that we must finish the number and I continued singing without a mic. When the number finished, we were asked to walk off the stage, they fixed the issue and we continued and finished the show. Y: Where were you born and what made you fall in love with musical theatre? ZB: I was born in Boston, Massachusetts and at a very young age, I was drawn to the theatre. I knew that I belonged, that I had

found my community and my calling in life. Y: How about a wow pinch me moment? ZB: Every night is a wow, pinch me moment for me. I can’t believe that I get to do this every night and to be in such a long-running, Tony Award®-winning show, I am just so grateful for the opportunity. I feel very blessed. Yiorgo is an arts, entertainment and sports writer. A stage, TV and movie actor, he is also a sports entertainer, educator, motivational speaker, writer, storyteller and columnist.

ABOVE: Terica Marie as Anna of Cleves (2nd from right) in The North American Tour Boleyn Company of SIX. (PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS) LEFT: Zan Berube plays Anne Boleyn in SIX. (COURTESY PHOTO)

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 3

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

Food

Protein packed seafood recipes to fuel everyday adventures By Family Features Achieving your goals each day starts with your own health and well-being, both physically and mentally. To ensure you’ve got the energy needed to take on that to-do list and enjoy your favorite activities, turn to familiar ingredients and recipes that pack the protein your body craves. To help reach nutrition goals and fuel your everyday adventures, Chicken of the Sea Tuna and Salmon Packets can follow you anywhere you go and make healthy eating a delicious endeavor. Everything you love about your favorite tuna and salmon products now fits into your busy lifestyle and unique dietary needs - keto, paleo or Mediterranean. They’re flavorful, convenient and fit seamlessly into your daily routine, making them a perfect solution no matter your mood, cravings or occasion. Whether you’re bringing tuna along as an afternoon snack or incorporating salmon into a tasty meal, the responsibly sourced protein allows you to eat healthy and live happy without compromise. For example, you can rethink lunchtime routines with a colorful twist on the viral social media salmon rice bowl. Bring together the lively flavors of Everything Bagel-seasoned pink salmon with your favorite toppings like carrots, radishes, Sriracha mayo and more for a simple yet flavorful afternoon proteinpacked pick-me-up. Long days away from home can lead to meal complacency when you walk through the door. However, keeping high-quality, responsibly sourced protein options on hand can help you avoid takeout cravings and a desire to leave the cooking to someone else. It doesn’t get much easier than these Lemon Garlic Tuna-Stuffed Roasted Mini Sweet Peppers for an appetizer or low-carb snack that takes just 20 minutes to prepare a handful of everyday ingredients. When you find the right solutions for you, it’s time to stock the pantry. Try all the flavors Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Tuna and Alaskan Pink Salmon Packets offers, from creamy or citrus to spicy and beyond. Visit chickenofthesea.com to find more nutritious recipe inspiration.

Everything Bagel Salmon Brown Rice Bowl Total time: 10 minutes | Servings: 1 Ingredients 1 packet (2 ½ ounces) Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Alaskan Pink Salmon with Everything Bagel Seasoning 1 cup cooked brown rice roasted nori seaweed sheets or pieces, crushed 1 small avocado, sliced 2 tablespoons shredded carrots 2 tablespoons shredded radishes 2 tablespoons minced cilantro 2 teaspoons furikaki seasoning (Japanese rice seasoning) 2 tablespoons Sriracha mayo

Everything Bagel Salmon Brown Rice Bowl

Directions In bowl, top cooked brown rice with crushed seaweed sheets. Add sliced avocado and top with salmon. Add carrots, radishes and cilantro. Sprinkle with furikaki seasoning and drizzle with Sriracha mayo.

Lemon Garlic Tuna-Stuffed Roasted Mini Sweet Peppers Total time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2-3 Ingredients 1 packet (2 ½ ounces) Chicken of the Sea Wild Caught Light Tuna Lightly Seasoned by McCormick, Lemon Garlic 3 mini sweet peppers, halved, seeds removed 2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese ½ cup sliced green onions fresh cracked black pepper, to taste Directions Preheat oven to 400 F. Lay parchment or foil over baking pan. Place halved mini sweet peppers on prepared baking pan and lightly brush both sides of peppers with oil. Divide lemon garlic tuna evenly between six mini pepper halves. Top with cheese and bake 8-10 minutes, or until peppers are tender and cheese is melted. Allow to cool and top with sliced green onions and fresh cracked black pepper, to taste.

Lemon Garlic Tuna-Stuffed Roasted Mini Sweet Peppers

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 5

Health

Preventing TRICARE fraud and abuse is everyone’s responsibility By TRICARE Communications FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Have you heard the term “health care fraud and abuse” and wondered what it means? Health care fraud and abuse occurs when a person or organization deliberately lies or misleads to gain a beneﬁt they shouldn’t receive. It also happens when health care providers bill for services and products that you don’t need or that don’t meet medical standards. Fraud and abuse also affect TRICARE. “Most TRICARE providers are honest and ethical, but unfortunately, some aren’t,” said Jennifer Dietz, director of the Health Care Fraud Division for the Defense Health Agency Office of the Inspector General. “Each year, fraud and abuse result in the loss of millions of taxpayer dollars that were meant to support health care for our service members and other TRICARE beneﬁciaries.” You can play an important role in identifying and reporting practices that don’t seem appropriate. Keep reading to learn how to recognize, report, and prevent fraud and abuse.

How to recognize fraud and abuse Providers, beneﬁciaries, and other organizations can commit health care fraud and abuse in many ways. Examples of fraud include: Submitting claims for services not provided or used Falsifying claims or medical records Misrepresenting dates, frequency, duration, or description of services rendered Billing for services at a higher level than provided or necessary Falsifying eligibility Failing to disclose coverage under other health insurance Examples of abuse include: A pattern of waiving cost-shares or deductibles Failure to maintain adequate medical or ﬁnancial records A pattern of claims for services not medically necessary Refusal to furnish or allow access to medical records Improper billing practices

How to report suspected fraud and abuse Fraud and abuse can target your TRICARE medical, pharmacy, and dental coverage. If you think someone is committing fraud or abuse related to your TRICARE

E R A W E B Fraud and abuse can target your TRICARE medical, pharmacy, and dental coverage. If you think someone is committing fraud or abuse related to your TRICARE beneﬁts, you should report it. (COURTESY PHOTO)

beneﬁts, you should report it. There are several ways to make a report: Contact the appropriate TRICARE contractor. This may be your TRICARE regional contractor, the TRICARE For Life contractor, the TRICARE Pharmacy Program contractor, or the TRICARE Dental Program contractor. Contact the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Fraud Hotline at 1-877-363-7283. Contact the DHA Office of the Inspector General. (online at https:// w w w. h e a l t h . m i l / A b o u t - M H S / OASDHA/Defense-Health-Agency/ DHA-Office-of-the-Inspector-General) When reporting, provide as much information as possible. This may include names, dates, and details of the situation. Investigations are conﬁdential, and you can choose to remain anonymous.

How you can help prevent fraud and abuse

There are ways to prevent health care fraud and abuse before it happens to you. The Federal Bureau of Investigation recommends three simple tips for preventing health care fraud and abuse: Protect your health plan information. Treat your health plan information like a credit card. Don’t give it to anyone to use and be cautious when giving it out at the doctor’s or pharmacy. Beware of “free” services. Anyone who asks you to share your health plan information in exchange for “free” services may be trying to scam you. The service probably isn’t free, and it could be fraudulently charged to TRICARE. Check your explanation of benefits (EOB) regularly. Double check that the dates, locations, and services you were billed for are the same as the care you received. Keep track of every bill you receive

to ensure you aren’t being billed for the same service more than once. You can also compare your bill to the EOB you receive from your TRICARE contractor. Because some billing errors are mistakes, contact your provider’s billing office if you ﬁnd a discrepancy. If the provider can’t resolve the discrepancy, contact the appropriate TRICARE contractor. Also, be aware of common health care scams that could affect you. Remember, TRICARE will never call or email to ask you for your Social Security number or recommend a speciﬁc treatment or drug. If someone contacts you by phone or email asking for personal or health information, don’t provide this information. Instead, report it to the appropriate TRICARE contractor right away. For more information on how to prevent TRICARE fraud and abuse, go to Reporting Fraud and Abuse (online at https://tricare. mil/GettingCare/PatientResources/ContactUs/ReportFraudAbuse)

4 Tips to get high cholesterol under control By Family Features

Heart disease is the nation’s leading cause of death for men and women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but many people aren’t aware they may be at elevated risk. More than 71 million adults in the United States have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and nearly 50 million don’t have it under control, which puts them at higher risk for cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke. What’s more, nearly one-third (31%) of U.S. adults are not aware that having high cholesterol puts them at greater risk for heart attack and stroke, according to the findings of a recent study conducted by The Harris Poll commissioned by Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. The poll also revealed some inconsistent understanding about treatment options available for those with uncontrolled cholesterol. Fully 3 in 10 (30%) of those taking statins believe statins are the only LDL lowering treatment available for those with high LDL cholesterol. “In auto racing, the red ﬂag means danger on the track, stopping the race immediately,” said Dr. JoAnne Foody, chief medical officer at Esperion. “We are launching a patient education program, ‘Wave the Red Flag,’ to encourage people with uncontrolled high cholesterol to have their levels checked right away and discuss appropriate treatment options with their health care provider.” If your high cholesterol is uncontrolled, understanding how you can achieve greater control can reduce your risk for serious health conditions, including potentially life-threatening cardiovascular events. Consider these tips to get high cholesterol under control. Talk with your doctor. Speaking with your physician is an important ﬁrst step to managing any health condition. Your doctor can help you understand the severity of your condition and whether a treatment plan should be moderate or aggressive. Check your progress. Keeping tabs on your cholesterol can help you and your health care team gauge whether your treatment plan is working. If you don’t have heart disease, you may not need to check as frequently, but your doctor can recommend the appropriate intervals to help manage your cholesterol most effectively. Take medications as prescribed. Statins are the medications most often recommended by treatment guidelines

(SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO)

for the management of blood cholesterol, and nearly one-third (30%) of those taking statins believe they are the only cholesterol-lowering treatment available, according to the survey. However, even with maximal statin therapy, some patients with chronic disease do not meet recommended LDL cholesterol levels. Taking your medications regularly and as instructed helps your doctor determine whether additional therapies - including non-statin treatments could be useful to help manage your blood cholesterol. Make lifestyle adjustments. Your diet plays a major role in lowering LDL cholesterol. Limiting fatty foods, especially those that are high in saturated and trans fats, is key. Monitoring your overall diet and exercising can also help reduce your risk of high cholesterol. Even if you don’t have high cholesterol, adopting more cholesterol-friendly habits can help prevent your

levels from rising to unhealthy levels in the future. To find additional information about managing your high cholesterol, talk to your health care provider and visit WaveTheRedFlag.info.

ﬁnd dietary cholesterol in many common foods, including meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and dairy. Other non-dietary contributing factors include health conditions like obesity and diabetes, as well as family history and advancing age.

Fast Facts About Cholesterol

What is a normal cholesterol level? An average optimal level of LDL cholesterol is about 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). An average optimal level of high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol is at least 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women. HDL cholesterol can actually lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

What is cholesterol? The liver creates a fat-like waxy substance called cholesterol. It serves useful purposes for the body, including producing hormones and helping digest food. How do you get high cholesterol? The human body makes all the cholesterol it needs naturally, so any cholesterol you eat is cholesterol you don’t need. However, it can be difficult to avoid because you can

Are there symptoms of high cholesterol? Unlike many health conditions, there are rarely any symptoms that your cholesterol is high. That’s what makes regular screening so important.

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024

Dogs, Cats, Other Pets POMERANIAN PUPPIES

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024 7

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8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, February 22, 2024