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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 1

IN THIS ISSUE Norfolk Naval Shipyard upgrades

After more than five years in the making, Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) migration to Maritime Systems Environment (MSE) may soon be complete. Page A6 VOL. 27, NO. 09, Norfolk, VA | ﬂagshipnews.com

March 4-March 10, 2021

(Katisha Draughn-Fraguada)

Fisher House continues to receive donations to support military families By Katisha Draughn-Fraguada

Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Public Affairs Office

NORFOLK — As the country continues to navigate through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, some organizations were able to give back to a foundation that is always offering support to our military families. The Fisher House provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical

centers. Fisher House Portsmouth provides that support to families with loved ones at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth. These homes offer free, temporary lodging to military and veterans’ families, allowing them to be close to their loved one while they are receiving treatment. The maximum number of families Fisher House Portsmouth can hold is seven at one time and includes amenities such as a washer/ dryer, cable, WiFi access, a library, gaming systems, an outdoor play-

ground, and a business center. The Grand Design Mid-Atlantic Owners and Ride with the Salty Dawgs Motorcycle Riding Club were both able to raise money by conducting their annual rallies during COVID-19 to assist the Fisher House with accomplishing its mission of providing support to military families. “It is absolutely mind-blowing to think that these organizations would put their lives on the line in the middle of an unchartered pandemic to raise money

for Fisher House Portsmouth,” said Jill Thompson, Fisher House Manager. “We are honored to be thought of, supported, and loved in this manner. This type of sacriﬁce is unprecedented.” The money donated will assist the Fisher House with buying linen, kitchenware, pots, pans, food, laundry supplies, and items for room renovations. “The COVID-19 pandemic made it very difficult and we had to postpone the Salty Dawgs Motorcycle Riding Club charity ride once from

May to September. For the Grand Design Mid-Atlantic Owners Rally, there were many times we thought we were going to have to cancel due to restrictions,” said John Cleary, Wagon Master for the Grand Design Mid-Atlantic Owners Rally. “However, with plenty of help from vendors and support of our owners, we were able to conduct the rally.” Grand Design Mid-Atlantic Owners raised $22,350, as well as Turn to ﬁsher, Page 7

NAVSUP FLC Norfolk awarded Blue “E”

Conflagration Simulation: NAS Oceana firefighter builds in-house training venue

By Jim Kohler

By MC3 Michael Botts

NORFOLK — NAVSUP FLC Norfolk’s Regional Supply Office (RSO) Norfolk, RSO Oceana and Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River Teams earned the 2020 Commander Naval Air Forces Ashore Supply Excellence Award (Blue “E”). The Blue “E” is awarded to naval air stations and naval stations with aviation support detachments (ASD) that demonstrate excellent quality and efficiency as judged by a comprehensive supply management inspection. “This award for our three air stations is a testament to their hard work and dedication to their support of ﬂeet operations,” said NAVSUP FLC Norfolk Commanding Officer Capt. Julie Treanor. “All three ASD sites work in the most demanding high paced

VIRGINIA BEACH — Like many other professions around the world, the way firefighters train and perform their duties was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, one Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire & Emergency Services firefighter on board Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana saw it as an opportunity and built an in-house firefighter training simulator, making sure he and his fellow firefighters are always ready to face any situation that may come their way. "I decided when all of this started that I was going to build us an in-house fire training simulator, because with everything going on with COVID, we werent able to go out and do the training that we usually do from

NAVSUP FLC Norfolk Public Affairs

Naval Air Station Oceana Public Affairs

LS1 Antonio Evans, right, and LS2 Samuel Cahill validate the part number and identifying information on a NRFI part with the information on a maintenance action form (MAF) prior to induction of the part to the local repair cycle. (JIM KOHLER)

environment to support operational squadrons both local and deployed” said Regional

Runway resurfacing project

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Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk’s Chambers Field is closed to ﬁxedwing aircraft from March 1 to June 30 to execute mission-critical resurfacing and infrastructure improvements on the runway.

Supply Officer Norfolk Lt. Cmdr. Turn to NAVSUP, Page 7

NAVSUP BSC employee recognized

the outside jurisdictions," said Joseph Tabor, a firefighter on board NAS Oceana. Tabor is a second-generation firefighter and has been battling blazes since he was 18-yearsold. He has dedicated the last 16 years of his life to protecting and serving his community, and has been doing so on board NAS Oceana for the past five years. Every year, firefighters onboard Naval Air Station Oceana are required to complete hundreds of hours of training in simulated scenarios so they can survive and excel during real-world emergencies. In the past, the firefighters would go to outside agencies to get their required training but, due to restrictions stemming from COVID-19, they are now unable to do so. "A lot of outside agencies, like Turn to NAS Oceana, Page 7

USS Helena

Aimee Connelly received Naval Information Warfare Systems Command’s (NAVWAR) Lightning Bolt Award, February 22.

The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Helena (SSN 725) conducted a change of command at Naval Station Norfolk, Feb. 26.

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The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

NSWCPD In-Service Engineer Dan Lin received a Bravo Zulu from Rear Adm. Casey Moton, after ﬁnding a low-cost, short-term solution to a waterjet problem on many Navy ships, which saved the Navy hundreds of thousands of dollars in immediate costs, while a long-term solution is being analyzed. (DAN LIN)

NAVSEA Program Executive Officer commends NSWCPD engineer for cost effective quick ﬁx By Brentan Debysingh

Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division Public Affairs

PHILADELPHIA — Bravo Zulus are great for the soul. So when Rear Adm. Casey Moton, Program Executive Officer, Unmanned and Small Combatants (PEO USC), Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) shared a Bravo Zulu (BZ) for Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) In-Service Engineering Agent (ISEA) Dan Lin, of course he was extremely happy. In an all-hands communication in Dec. last year, Moton mentioned that Lin “developed a cost-effective and rapidly implemented solution to a troubled system (waterjets). One of the primary reliability drivers of that system has been identiﬁed by the ISEA (Dan Lin) as a candidate to be replaced during a planned maintenance availability (PMAV). The life cycle of this item is such that it fails sooner than was expected. The item is very inexpensive and it can be replaced during a PMAV, avoiding lost mission days while the long-term engineering analysis is performed.” Lin reacted humbly, saying, “While this is just part of the job, and ultimately we are here to support the ﬂeet, it’s still very rewarding to get acknowledged for a job

well done.” He added, “While my name was speciﬁcally called out, the waterjets team is truly a team. We work very closely together on all tasks, and this was a team effort. They deserve the recognition as well. John Kirschner, Catherine Abbott, Sam Richards, and contractor Ed Brown are vital to all the work we get and output we produce.” A 15-year veteran of the NSWCPD, Lin serves as the team lead in waterjets and works mostly on Littoral Class Ships (LCS), but also supports Improved Navy Lighterage System (INLS), Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USV), and acquisition side of Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) classes. Most of Lin’s work is derived from the goal of improving their logistics, design, reliability, maintainability, and availability of technical data. Additionally, he meets with both LCS program offices, acquisition and in-service, to discuss status of tasks, brief out additional insights, and follow up on other issues. In this situation, Lin focused on the waterjets. In waterjet propulsion, water is ingested using an inlet duct, then fed through the waterjets at a high velocity, thereby providing the necessary force needed to propel and steer the ship. The waterjet system is a complex system including mechanical and hydraulic aspects that

even a minor fault in one area can bring down an individual waterjet. Lin identified a flaw within the system’s design that required a larger, long-term repair. Knowing that a larger scale solution would require more time, he also determined an immediate, low-cost fix. “I recommended as a mitigation plan to develop a time based maintenance procedure to replace the component every four months to avoid having the component fail while the ships are out to sea,” explained Lin. “The preventative maintenance service (PMS) card has been developed and currently our logistics folks are in the process of implementing the card.” Loss of power and mobility to a ship is a critical issue and requires an immediate attention for rectification. This includes sending waterjet engineers outside the continental United States (OCONUS) to troubleshoot the vessel onsite. “These OCONUS trips are expensive, and in the two years we’ve been requested to provide onsite support five times,” explained Lin. “The recommended mitigation until a final solution can be implemented is still anticipated to result in significant reliability improvements, reducing downtime for waterjets, and cost reduction as the engineers will not need to travel to support frequent repairs.”

When hearing of Lin’s recognition, Shafting, Surface Ship Propellers & Waterjets Branch Head Monica Schrank said, “I was extremely happy to see Dan receive recognition at such a high level. Over the past year as Dan’s supervisor, I have continuously witnessed him go above and beyond to support the Fleet.” Schrank noted that in the past year multiple failures required Lin to go OCONUS twice during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying “Both trips required a 14-day Restriction Of Movement (ROM), which Dan supported without hesitation, along with the associated troubleshooting and repair time. Dan and the waterjets team continue to amaze me with their unwavering Fleet support, we are lucky to have such a dedicated and hardworking team at NSWCPD.” “Dan Lin’s technical excellence and commitment to the Navy is the critical reason that the Waterjet system is seeing marked improvements,” added Propulsion Systems Division Head David Gloeckner. “His contributions are greater than this one event and his ability to manage, lead, and engineer the system has been the key contributing factor to solving many challenging waterjet issues and bringing this system into a more reliable and healthy state.”

USS Helena holds change of command MC2 Cameron Stoner

Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK — The Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Helena (SSN 725) conducted a change of command at Naval Station Norfolk, Feb. 26. Cmdr. Dave Nichols relieved Cmdr. Andy Cain as commanding officer of Helena. Capt. Jeffrey Juergens, commodore, Submarine Squadron 6, spoke on Cain’s time as the boat’s commanding officer during a unique period as Helena went through overhaul. “Andy’s leadership was invaluable in keeping his crew focused on submarine operations despite a complex and challenging shipyard availability,” Juergens said. “During an ever-changing schedule, he kept his crew ready to participate in the high-end fight while maintaining the highest levels of morale.” Cain reminded Helena’s crew of their efforts during the boat’s overhaul. “To the Helena crew, the proud and fearless guardians, I cannot express enough how proud I am of your endurance and your spirit,” Cain said. “You listened when I told you to always be proud of your Helena ballcap, to never become victims of your circumstances, and to never become a shipyard boat, but to remain a warship conducting overhaul. Everything we have done

Cmdr. Dave Nichols, left, relieved Cmdr. Andy Cain as commanding officer of USS Helena (SSN 725) during a change of command ceremony, Feb. 26. (MC2 CAMERON STONER)

these last three years has been important for what is coming tomorrow.” While Helena has been in overhaul, the boat’s crew has continued to work diligently to ensure a safe and rapid return to sea where they will have new challenges to overcome. “It has been the honor of a lifetime to have been called Helena as I’ve walked across the brow, but know that every single one of you are Helena when you cross the brow as well,” Cain continued. “Never forget that, no matter how tough the challenges are that lie ahead.” Cain’s next assignment is at the Department of Energy as the military assistant to the National Nuclear Security Agency administrator.

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While assuming command, Nichols said he is honored to be the crew’s new commanding officer. “I am extremely honored and humbled to take command of USS Helena,” Nichols said. “Over the last month, I have been impressed with the incredibly dedicated crew, and I couldn’t be more proud to join the Helena team.” Fast-attack submarines are multi-mission platforms enabling five of the six Navy maritime strategy core capabilities - sea control, power projection, forward presence, maritime security and deterrence. They are designed to excel in anti-submarine warfare, anti-ship warfare, strike warfare, special operations, intelligence,

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm Charles W.“Chip”Rock Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA): Public Affairs Director | Beth Baker The Flagship® is published by Flagship, Inc., 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, Inc. 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, Inc., whose offices are located at 150W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, Va. 23510. © 2021Flagship, Inc. All rights reserved

surveillance and reconnaissance, irregular warfare and mine warfare. Fast-attack submarines project power ashore with special operations forces and Tomahawk cruise missiles in the prevention or preparation of regional crises. Helena, whose motto is “Proud and Fearless,” is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name of Montana’s capital city. Built by General Dynamics Electric Boat Division, Helena was commissioned July 11, 1987, as the 38th nuclear-powered Los Angeles-class submarine. The Los Angeles-class submarine is 360 feet long and 33 feet wide, and weighs about 6,900 tons when submerged. Underwater, it can reach speeds in excess of 25 knots.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 3

A civilian plane director guides an E-2D Hawkeye being recieved by the“Greyhawks”of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 120 at Naval Station Norfolk. (MC3 NIKITA CUSTER)

Naval Station Norfolk’s Chambers Field Runway resurfacing project begins From Naval Station Norfolk Public Affairs NORFOLK — Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk’s Chambers Field is closed to fixedwing aircraft from March 1 to June 30 to execute mission-critical resurfacing and infrastructure improvements on the runway. “The Naval Station Norfolk Air Operations

Team along with many other organizations have been coordinating this project and subsequent closure for several years now,” said Capt. Vince Baker, Naval Station Norfolk Commanding Officer. “We are ready for this critical infrastructure investment project to kick off next week that will enable safe operations at Chambers Field and the Navy Operated Air Mobility Command Terminal into the foreseeable future.”

The $16.9 million construction contract was awarded to Williamsburg based Branscome Companies Inc. in June 2020 to resurface the runway and demolish 99,480 square yards of excess pavement. The planned shutdown also includes updates to significant electrical infrastructure, navigational aide replacements and signage upgrades. “Chambers Field is integral to air oper-

ations and we look forward to the planned renovations,” said Rear Adm. John F. Meier, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic. “We appreciate the coordination between commands to ensure our aircraft can continue to safely and effectively operate from the airfield.” With the runway closed, all E-2C Hawkeye and C-2 Greyhound squadrons will shift operations to Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana. All Air Mobility Command (AMC) passenger operations will shift to Baltimore Washington International (BWI) Airport and all cargo operations will shift to Joint Base Charleston. Helicopter operations will continue at NAVSTA Norfolk. Runways are typically resurfaced every 15 years. Chambers Field was last resurfaced in 2005. NAVSTA Norfolk’s Chambers Field is one of the busiest military runways on the East Coast with an average of 44,000 take offs and landings per year. This includes an average of 3,000 airlifts per year to include 19,000 tons of high priority combat cargo.

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4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

NAVSUP BSC employee recognized for accelerating Navy telework in response to COVID-19

NSWC Dahlgren Cyber Warfare Engineering Lab designed to be NAVSEA cybersecurity crown jewel From Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division

From NAVSUP Business Systems Center MECHANICSBURG, Pa.— Aimee Connelly, An Information Technology Project Manager For Naval Supply Systems Command (Navsup) Business Systems Center (Bsc), Received Naval Information Warfare Systems Command’s (Navwar) Lightning Bolt Award, February 22, For Her Efforts In Deploying An Enterprise-Wide Telework Capability For The Navy In The Face Of A Global Pandemic. As Part Of A Six-Person Navy Cloud Computing Services (Nccs) Commercial Virtual Remote Environment (Cvr)/ Outreach Team, Connelly and Team Members Quickly Launched A Strategic Campaign In March 2020 To Support The Rapid Adoption Of Department Of Defense Cvr Use Across The Navy In Response To Covid-19. Working In Partnership With The Dod Cloud Computing Program Office, Office Of The Chief Of Naval Operations, and U.s. Fleet Cyber Command, The Team’s Rapid, Comprehensive Response Enabled The Workforce To Safely Execute The Dod Mission and Maintain Continuity Of Department Of Navy Operations Amid The Onset Of The Covid-19 Pandemic. Their Efforts Resulted In The Delivery Of A Secure and Scalable Capability To 4 Million Users Within Days and Enabled The Navy To Quickly Adopt The Use Of Cvr For A Safe and Efficient Transition To Mass-Telework During Covid-19. “I Am Extremely Honored To Receive This Award,” Said Connelly. “I Am Very Grateful For The Recognition Of The Hard Work That Was Put Into Making Cvr A Tool That Our Workforce Could Access and Use For Collaboration During The Unexpected Mass Telework. This Award Would Not Have Been Possible Without The Members Of The Navsup Cvr Champion Team, Who Quickly Learned The New Platform and Rapidly Responded To Users’ Issues.” Navsup Bsc Provides The Navy With Information Systems Support Through The Design, Development, and Maintenance Of Systems In The Func-

Aimee Connelly, an information technology project manager for NAVSUP Business Systems Center, received the NAVWAR Lightning Bolt Award for her efforts in deploying an enterprisewide telework capability for the Navy in the face of a global pandemic. (THOMAS ZIMMERMAN)

tional Areas Of Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Transportation, Finance, and Accounting and Is One Of 11 Commands Under Commander, Navsup. Navsup Is Headquartered In Mechanicsburg and Employs A Diverse, Worldwide Workforce Of More Than 22,500 Military and Civilian Personnel. Navsup’s Mission

Is To Provide Supplies, Services, and Quality-Of-Life Support To The Navy and Joint Warﬁghter. For More Information About Navsup Bsc, Visit Https:// Www. navsup.navy.mil/Public/Navsup/Bsc/. For More Information About Navwar, Visit Https://Www.navwar.navy.mil.

DAHLGREN — More than a year after the cyber warfare engineering lab (CWEL) at Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) broke ground, the center is gearing up to open its doors to several cybersecurity programs. “I think of CWEL as the cyber center of excellence,” said Mike Strain, CWEL program manager and cyber assurance portfolio business manager. “It’ll be a one-stop shop for cyber requirements — from testing and understanding vulnerabilities to knowing how to negate those vulnerabilities.” The 10,000-foot lab will act as a centralized location for cyber testing and location with increased security. “CWEL will allow us the opportunity to streamline the process, so we can understand cyber capabilities and risks and create the mitigation necessary to minimize the risks,” said Strain. “Minimizing the risks ultimately helps the warfighter. It’s a long term vision to take all the parts and put them together to create a central point for the Navy.” The NSWCDD facility will host both the USS Secure and Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Red Team programs. USS Secure is a cybersecurity program that helps projects and programs meet mission requirements. The NAVSEA Red Team emulates adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures to identify system and network weaknesses. “Whenever you start bringing like capabilities together in a single location, you wind up with programs that can operate better,” said Strain. “This single location will allow synergy to rise to the top, so we can take advantage of other things that we may not have thought of before.” “CWEL’s increased security will allow us to store event data for analysis,” said Jay Blalock, USS Secure program director. “Long term, that analysis can be used to identify mission vulnerabilities.” According to Blalock, the lab will also include virtual test environments, which will add reliability to testing program and project architectures. “Cyber will continue to grow more and more as we change the way we operate our systems,” said Strain. “The more we get into the idea of unmanned capabilities, the more important the cyber aspect becomes.” Originally, the lab was set to open in July 2020. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States, the timeline changed. Strain says he expects the lab to be up and running in February or March 2021.

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6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

(From right to left) Code 300’s MSE Deputy Kyle Alexander showing Scheduler Bruce Neel one of the MSE’s abilities. (DANIEL DEANGELIS)

Norfolk Naval Shipyard upgrades with Maritime Systems Environment By Hannah Bondoc

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — After more than five years in the making, Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) migration to Maritime Systems Environment (MSE) may soon be complete. MSE is a computer system update described as, “a Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) mandated technical upgrade of corporate applications to improve cybersecurity and software maintenance processes,” according to an NNSY executive brief. “All corporate applications will be web-based with minor modifications to the interface ‘look and feel’ whereas Advanced Industrial Management/Execution Priorities (AIM/EP), Supervisor Desk (SUPDESK) and Business Objects have minor functionality changes.” As NNSY’s Operations Department (Code 300) Implementation Support Group (ISG) Manager Phil Imhof explained, “Our corporate applications (such as AIM and SUPDESK) will be upgraded to improve cybersecurity. These applications will look more like a webpage than the current legacy versions.”

The biggest challenge in this transition has been the lengthy process of ensuring the system is prepared to deploy. “There has been an extensive amount of testing by all four shipyards, as well as the development and deployment of training,” Imhof said. “Local applications that have been developed at NNSY, as well as interface with the corporate applications migrating to MSE, require reconfiguration, recoding and testing.” Such applications include the Automated Deficiency Log & Integrated New Work Control—New Work (ADLINC) that is used in the business offices, as well as the Business & Strategic Planning Office — Management System (BSPO MS) and the Historical Information Tool KIT (HITKIT) applications that are used by engineering and production departments. Migrating to MSE also means moving to a remote data server; however, it will not change the functionality of the previously mentioned software applications. “A driving requirement for MSE was to be a seamless transition for the workforce with no changes to the business process,” said Code 300’s MSE Deputy Kyle Alexander. “While a few of the applications have some new bells and whistles, the over-

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whelming majority of the applications are exactly the same.” One improvement with the new system is the ease of access with Common Access Card (CAC) enabled single sign on. “MSE is not an improvement initiative, but users will only need to use their CAC, their correct certificate and PIN to access the environment,” Imhof stated. “Switching between the different applications that a user has access to will no longer require user identifications and passwords. All those passwords users have had to keep for numerous applications are a thing of the past.” Another change to the workforce will be Electronic Supplemental Training Information Resource (ESTR), the training reporting local application. Unfortunately, it was not possible to reconfigure the application to access Automated Training Management System (ATMS) in MSE, so reports in Business Objects will replace the reports in ESTR. “This will be difficult at first for most ESTR users as they don’t normally have access to the legacy Business Objects application,” Imhof explained. “However, Production Training Division (Code 900T) is developing training aids to ease this transition.”

The MSE migration across the shipyard is scheduled for Friday, April 9 at 6 p.m., when the legacy apps will be turned off. “Project Management Office — Information Technology (PMO IT), Information Technology and Cybersecurity Department (Code 109) and NNSY applications functional subject matter experts (SME) will work together to migrate our legacy data to MSE, then validate the data and functionality prior to turning MSE on for all users the following Monday morning, April 12,” said Imhof. After the move to MSE, Imhof stated that his team will work to implement Electronic Technical Work Document (ETWD)—an application that processes Task Group Instructions (TGI) for mechanics executing work on the deckplate. “Migration to MSE is just the technical predecessor to migrating to ETWD. Testing in all four shipyards will start in April, with deployment planned for a future availability that has yet to start planning in AIM,” he said. Although this change was meticulously set up for making things technologically easier for the employees, the ease of this transition depends on the workforce. “Users should log onto the MSE Test Environment after it goes live, and make sure their roles and access to applications match what they have today,” Alexander instructed. “They should familiarize themselves with the new layout.” As this past year has proven, change is rarely easy. With this shift in technology however, perhaps it will make a few things easier for NNSY.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 7

NAS Oceana from Page 1

the Virginia Beach Fire Department and private industries will put on training like what Firefighter Tabor built for us," said Cedric Patterson, Assistant Fire Chief, District 3 for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire & Emergency Services. "They will bring in different fire departments and go through training like the one we have built here, but because of COVID, those classes have been canceled for the better part of the last year. The simulator we built here still gives my guys access to the same level of props and the same level of simulations that they would get from these outside agencies." Patterson said simulations like the one they have built are crucial because some of the most frequent causes of firefighter fatalities are due to lost, disoriented, or trapped firefighters who werent able to be located in time. "The purpose of this training is to simulate operating in close quarters, being disoriented, and being able to survive and have positive outcomes from these situations," said Patterson. "So we put our guys in these simulations to simulate as closely as possible to the real thing, so we have a better level of confidence if they ever find themselves in that situation." The simulator has also garnered the attention of other fire departments, providing a unique training opportunity for all those involved. "Having all these different regional firehouses come over and seeing how they operate differently is really good training for us," said Tabor. "We may pick up on or learn something that we hadnt thought of before and use it for ourselves and they may do the same from us." Along with providing better training for the firefighters, the simulator Tabor built is also saving his department and the Navy a lot of time and money. "A lot of times when these outside agencies are charging for the classes, it could cost up to two or three thousand dollars per person, and even if they arent charging

NAVSUP from Page 1

Michael Collins. “It takes a ‘whole of workforce’ effort to sustain readiness of the flight line and all ASDs’ impressively worked with their maintenance counterparts to tackle the most time sensitive requirements. No one factor determines success but the culmination of commitment to mission coupled with talented logisticians throughout the commands produced undeniable support to the warfighter.” The “Blue E” award is reflective of the dedication of the military, civilian, and contracted support workforce who together support 46 aviation squadrons consisting of 577 airplanes/helicopters and 165 Fleet Readiness Center workshops. They annu-

A firefighter assigned to Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire & Emergency Services participates in a fire training simulator on board Naval Air Station Oceana. The fire training simulator was built by Firefighter Joseph Tabor in order to maintain a regular training schedule during the imposed COVID-19 restrictions. (MC3 MICHAEL BOTTS)

anything, we still have to pay overtime for someone to cover responses on the base while we still have our guys going out to these training," said Patterson. "Also, when we have to use an outside agency, I am limited to the number of ﬁreﬁghters I can send out to these training. When we are doing them in-house I can send 10 to

12 people a day, and the next day I can send 10 to 12 more without costing us any extra money. These simulations have paid for themselves and the materials 100 times over just in the past year." Tabor said he plans on adding more and more to the simulation in the future. He is dedicated to providing all ﬁreﬁghters in

the region easy access to crucial training simulations. "I feel great knowing that what I built could save one of my fellow ﬁreﬁghters in a real-world scenario," said Tabor. "Right now, I am not sure what I will add on next, but I plan on expanding the simulator so that we can be prepared for any situation.”

ally process more than 400,000 supply transactions and are responsible for a Navy Working Capital inventory of 42,000 items valued in excess of $1.2 billion. Despite an unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic coupled with constant budgetary uncertainties, the Norfolk, Oceana, and Pax River teams overcame challenges to provide uninterrupted aviation supply support to the ﬂight line. “Consistent interruptions in the amount of available workforce among military, civilian, and contractors weighed heavily at times and presented management challenges for ASD Leadership” said Collins. “At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, uncertainty reigned supreme but fortunately each ASD smartly executed Navy guidance and developed internal mitigation plans to combat the challenge head on. The

ASDs’ flexibility to ‘move, shoot, move’ on requirements despite the unprecedented COVID-19 challenges while providing continuous support to the flight line is nothing short of amazing. “I can’t stress how proud I am to serve with such unbelievably smart, dedicated and talented logisticians” added Collins. “They never cease to amaze as evidenced by the work each person yields every day. Put simply, we have demanding customers and the ASDs strap up their boots and run into the fight to engage supply requirements and taskings without batting an eye. The famous adage, ‘You can fly without Supply’ has never been more true than it is today. You never know where tomorrow’s battlefield will be, but I have full confidence the ASDs are ready to support at a moment’s notice.”

ﬁsher from Page 1

many donated items to the Fisher House to include 74 hand knitted lap blankets for the guests. “Our goal was to match or beat the numbers from our last year’s contributions of $20,000,” said Cleary. Throughout the pandemic, the Fisher House has been operating under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, as well as those instituted by Commander, Navy Installations Command. There has been a reduction of services from the volunteers, but they have been able to ﬁnd new and creative ways to support by meal drop offs at the gate, virtual educational briefs and publicizing the program.

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8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 1

Navy’s top Paciﬁc Fleet sub hunter Naval Surface Forces awarded the USS Barry (DDG 52) the 2020 Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Bloodhound Award for the Pacific Fleet, Feb. 22. Page B3

A U.S. Navy MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 23 ﬂies around the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22). (USMC Staff Sgt. KASSIE MCDOLE)

U.S. 5th Fleet responds to COVID-19 aboard USS San Diego, USS Philippine Sea From U.S. 5Th Fleet Public Affairs U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS — U.S. 5th Fleet took immediate actions to identify, isolate, test, and treat affected Sailors and Marines aboard two ships. As of today, approximately a dozen service members aboard the amphibious transport dock USS San Diego (LPD 22) tested positive for COVID-19, and the guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) has identified several persons under investigation

(PUIs). Medical health professionals are conducting a thorough contact investigation to determine the source of COVID-19 aboard the ships and whether any other personnel may have been exposed. San Diego is currently pierside in the Kingdom of Bahrain. All positive cases have been isolated on board, and the ship remains in a restricted COVID bubble. The port visit and medical support have been coordinated with the host nation government and Bahrain

Ministry of Health. The ship has a robust medical capability, including embarked medical staff, operating rooms, a 24-bed hospital ward and additional overflow capacity. Philippine Sea, currently underway, is expected to pull into port to conduct further testing of all who have possibly been exposed and provide rapid testing capability and medical treatment centers, as needed. The port location will not be disclosed, in advance, due to operational security. Personnel identified as having close contact

have been isolated and mitigation measures are followed in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Bahrain Ministry of Health, and Navy-specific guidelines to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of the crews. U.S. 5th Fleet is committed to taking every measure possible to protect the health of our force. While the health and well-being of our personnel are a priority, we remain ready to support the U.S. Central Command mission and our regional and coalition partners.

Greek, U.S. naval forces conduct passing exercise in Arabian Gulf From U.S. 5Th Fleet Public Affairs

Sailors man the rails as the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) arrives in Port Sudan, Sudan for a scheduled port visit, March 1. (MC3 LOUIS THOMPSON STAATS IV)

USS Winston S. Churchill conducts port visit to Sudan From U.S. Sixth Fleet Public Affairs PORT SUDAN, Sudan — The guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) arrived in Port Sudan, Sudan for a scheduled port visit, Mar. 1, 2021. The Winston Churchill follows the USS Carson City’s visit Feb. 24-26, and U.S. Africa Command’s Deputy Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, Ambassador Andrew Young, and Director of Intelligence, Rear Adm. Heidi Berg, Jan. 25-27, further building on the partnership with the Sudanese Armed Forces. “Together with Sudan’s civilian-led transitional government, we are striving to build a partnership between our two armed forces,” said Rear Adm. Michael Baze, director of maritime headquarters, Navy Africa, U.S. Sixth Fleet. “In just the past few months, we have already

seen an increase in military-to-military engagements.” This visit will provide an opportunity for the Sudanese and U.S. military leaders to engage in staff talks to further explore opportunities to work together and establish a basis for a relationship committed to security and stability in the region. The Sudanese officials will also tour the Winston Churchill followed by a reception given by both the Sudanese and U.S. military. “We look forward to fortifying our friendship through increased interactions at sea and ashore,” Baze said. Winston S. Churchill departed Norfolk, Virginia, Aug. 10 for a regularly-scheduled deployment to maintain maritime security and ensure the freedom of navigation in critical waterways. Feb. 21 marked Churchill passing 50,000 nautical miles traveled on their deploy-

ment. On Feb. 11-12, the ship seized illicit shipments of weapons and weapons components from two stateless dhows during a maritime security operation in international waters off the coast of Somalia. The seizure of the illicit weapons by the ship was conducted while providing direct support to the Combined Maritime Security’s maritime security operations in the region. These routine patrols are performed by U.S. and coalition partners to ensure the free flow of commerce for legitimate traffic and to disrupt the transport of illicit cargo that often funds terrorism and unlawful activity. Churchill is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, which is headquartered in Manama, Bahrain, and conducts joint and naval operations in support of coalition and regional partners, and U.S. national security interests in the Middle East. U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts joint and naval operations in order to support regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

ARABIAN GULF — The U.S. Coast Guard patrol boats USCGC Adak (WPB 1333) and USCGC Maui (WPB 1304) participated in a passing exercise (PASSEX) with the Greek guided-missile frigate HS Hydra (F452) in the Arabian Gulf, Feb. 25. The exercise included advanced maneuvers and communication drills flexing the crews’ abilities to operate together in a dynamic environment, and test and refine combined command and control processes. “The United States and Greece are committed to advancing maritime security in the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond,” said U.S. Ambassador to Greece Geoffrey R. Pyatt. “Today’s bilateral exercise is another example of our countries’ deepening military-to-military collaboration, which is at an all-time high and growing stronger each day. Together, we are furthering shared defense and security goals enshrined in our countries’ Strategic Dialogue and our updated Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement.” Greece is a vital NATO ally, showing a commitment to regional peace and stability. Greece, the host of U.S. Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, is an enabler for U.S., Allied, and partner nation forces to operate and transit in and across critical sea lanes. “This exercise was a great opportunity to work alongside our Greek partners to increase tactical proficiency and capabilities,” said Lt. Ben Williams, commanding officer of Maui. “As a crew we are always confident in our operational capabilities and working with the crew of Hydra validated our combined readiness.” Exercises like this serve as a demonstration of the U.S. Navy’s continued commitment to strengthening coalition partnerships in the Turn to Greek, Page 7

The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

Heroes at Home

Q: How do I make reservations at the NGIS? A: Information on Navy Gateway Inns and Suites (NGIS) can be found at https:// ngis.dodlodging.net. You can also call 1-877-NAVY-BED or 011-973-1785-2100 or DSN 318-439-3372.

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The grass is always greener at Quarters B By Lisa Smith Molinari I remember it like it was yesterday. I was walking back to our stairwell apartment from dropping my daughter off at Patch Barracks Elementary School, minding my own business along Florida Strasse with our labradoodle, Dinghy. Suddenly, Dinghy spotted a hare munching grass in General So-and-so’s backyard. Now,mindyou,Dinghywas110-pounds, and a keen hunter. Every place our family lived, he was on the hunt for indigenous prey as soon as we stepped outside. Prior to Germany, we lived in Virginia, where Dinghy dug a WWI trench across our back yard in pursuit of a mole. After Germany, we moved to Florida, where Dinghy frantically tunneled his head into the sand until a “crunch” indicated that he’d cornered a poor crustacean. But during our years in Germany, Dinghy longed to taste a hare. Anyone who has seen these long-legged rabbits run knows Dinghy didn’t stand a chance. Nevertheless, upon seeing that hare off of Florida Strasse years ago, he gave chase. “Dinghy! No!” I yelled in a fruitless attempt to stop the inevitable. He took off like a bullet, yanking the leash, which I had wrapped around my waist, holding a full dog doo bag in one

hand and my travel coffee mug in the other. Before I knew it, I was flying, hitting the ground, then being dragged fifteen feet across General So-andso’s front lawn before the leash broke loose. As expected, the hare got away. Dinghy returned nonchalantly as if to say, “What’s the matter with you?” I hadn’t spilled a drop of coffee; however, my white sweatshirt showed proof of the incident. No scratches on my knees, no dirt on my elbows, no mud on my rear. Just two large, round, bright green grass stains, right over each breast. I wanted to bury my head in the sand. But as fate would have it, I ran into every soul I knew on my way home. “Dinghy dragged you … in front of General So-and-so’s house?” they each said. My idiocy was the hot topic at Building 2500 that day. Living on base, we have moments when we just want to be alone, away from judgement, prying eyes, ringing doorbells, shared parking lots, and communal dumpsters. Sharing walls with your neighbors makes you involuntarily privy to every thump, groan, argument, and flush. There’s always someone watching to make sure you’re picking up after your dog. There’s no sneaking out to throw a weekend’s worth of wine bottles away, because

everyone hears every clink, clank, clunk in the dumpster bay. You can’t pop into the commissary undetected, because you’ll likely run into your husband’s boss when your cart contains a jumbo box of super plus tampons and a Party Size pack of Double Stuff Oreos. If you tell your children to play outside to give you a moment’s peace, your unruly kids will quickly become the subject of judgmental parent chit chat under the picnic pavilion. When you hear laughing, you’ll know someone saw you in your kitchen window, spraying whipped cream into your upturned mouth. Trust me. I know this first hand. My family lived on base for eleven of my husband’s 28 active duty years in the Navy. I sometimes turned my lights out and ducked behind the couch, pretending I wasn’t home. We got good at “whisper-yelling” so they wouldn’t hear us arguing. I closed our shades those mornings when I just wanted to watch Real Housewives reruns while eating a can of Pringles. Despite it all, my only regret is that we didn’t live on base more. The benefits of companionship and community in military housing far outweighed the sacrifice of privacy. I lost count of the moments when I relied on my base neighbors to force me outside for fun, keep an eye on kids, help carry heavy things, talk something through, cheer me up when I was feeling low. The special brand of camaraderie found only in base neighborhoods — with pot luck picnics, spontaneous parties, commune-like feel, and got-your-back mentality — will be remembered fondly long after one’s experience in the military is over. Trust me, I know this first hand.

Support Your Teen to Have Safe and Healthy Relationships

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From Militaryonescource As a parent, you want your children to be safe, healthy and happy. And while forming relationships and developing romantic feelings for their peers is a natural part of growing up, relationship abuse is common, and can start early. One of the best ways to be a supportive parent is to know the facts from the start. One in three high school students and one in five middle school students will experience some form of abuse inflicted by the person they are dating ─ whether it be physical, emotional, verbal or sexual abuse or controlling behavior. Individuals generally first encounter relationship abuse when they are between the ages of 11 and 24. Help put your teen on track to have a healthy relationship with these behaviors: Build and maintain your child’s trust by setting healthy boundaries and honoring them, and by actively listening to them. Discuss with them what makes a healthy relationship. Help them learn to recognize what makes a relationship unhealthy or abusive. Teach and reinforce the importance of consent. Build and maintain your child’s trust. Your teen will trust you to be there whenever they need support when you: Respect their decisions even when you don’t agree with them. Support them without judgment, especially if they make a poor decision. Listen to their concerns, opinions and the things that matter to them. Guide them on how to find good solutions for their life challenges. Discuss with your teen what makes a healthy relationship. To build a healthy relationship, both partners should: • Be respectful • Trust the other • Be honest • Communicate • Enjoy personal time with and away from the other (both partners maintain some of their independence) • Have equal say in financial decisions • Make choices in the relationship (not one-sided) • Practice consent

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Chat about relationships you are both aware of and what healthy qualities you see in those relationships, based on actions you’ve observed. Find more information on healthy, unhealthy and abusive relationships from reliable sources, such as thehotline.org and youth.gov. Help them learn to recognize what makes a relationship unhealthy or abusive. Let your teen know that many times, dating abuse begins with the would-be abuser testing their partner’s stated boundaries and ignoring their requests to stop. Unwanted teasing, excessive jealousy or possessiveness, and direct harassment are forms of emotional abuse and can set the stage for potential physical violence. Despite what abusers may say, these boundary-pushing behaviors are not normal, and they are not a sign of love. Restating and enforcing personal boundaries with a partner is not disrespectful or unloving behavior. Basic respect and mutual consent form the basis of all healthy relationships, especially with romantic partners. Teach and reinforce the importance of consent As a parent, one of the most important things you can do to set your child up for healthy and successful relationships is to make sure they understand consent in the context of physical and sexual boundaries. These lessons can and should start early, so that by the time your child is a teen they are familiar with the concept. It’s always a good idea to remind your teen of the basic principles of consensual and respectful behavior: Always ask for permission before engaging in sexual behavior, and remember that consent for previous sexual activity doesn’t automatically mean consent is given for future sexual acts. Everyone has the right to say “yes” or “no” each time, no matter how long they’ve been together with their partner. Check in with your partner and be attuned to their comfort level when interacting with them. Are they nervous or anxious in any way? Could some of your attention be interpreted as pressure? It is never OK to threaten or pressure someone into unwanted sexual activity. The absence of a

verbal “no” does not mean a free-and-clear “yes.” Keep in mind the risks of technology You’ve probably noticed your teen is often on their phone, a computer or tablet (likely so are you!). The internet has become a permanent fixture of our daily lives, routines and social interactions, and most of us , including young people, use social media, texting and email to stay connected to our partners. Therefore, it’s important to keep in mind that technology is frequently a pathway for abuse and harassment. Make sure your teen understands that put-downs, excessive texting, calling, emailing or messaging, and threats by a partner to share private or sensitive images, are all forms of relationship abuse. To learn more about the technology risks young people face and tips for reporting abuse, check out these resources: Cyber Safety Plan — PDF What Is Digital Abuse? — PDF Supporting Youth to Set Healthy Boundaries With Technology — Webinar LGBTQ Youth and Relationship Abuse If your teen is LGBTQ, they may be at risk for additional forms of relationship abuse, particularly if they are not yet “out” with their sexual orientation or gender identity. As a parent, the best thing you can do for your child is to be supportive and nonjudgmental, and to let them know you are there for them unconditionally. Where to find help Whether you’re concerned for your teen, yourself or someone else you care about regarding dating violence, help is available. If you are mistreated by your partner, don’t be ashamed. It’s not your fault, and you’re not alone. Keep yourself safe while you get help and decide what to do. Remind teens that they can seek help from you, teachers, guidance counselors or trained peer advocates, who are available by phone at 866-331-8453 or by texting “loveis” to 22522. Teenagers can also check out That’s Not Cool for information, games and tools such as the Respect Effect app, which can help them take action to prevent teen dating violence.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 3

Capt. Chase Sargeant, Destroyer Squadron 15, and Cmdr. Christopher Gahl, commanding officer of USS Barry DDG 52), hold the Bloodhound Award pennant during an awards ceremony on the forecastle of the Arleigh-Burke class guided missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52). (ENSIGN EMILIO MACKIE)

USS Barry named Navy’s top Paciﬁc Fleet sub hunter

By Lt.j.g. Sam Hardgrove and Ensign Emilio Mackie

USS Barry (Ddg 52) Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan —Commander, Naval Surface Forces awarded forward-deployed, Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) the 2020 Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Bloodhound Award for the Pacific Fleet, Feb. 22. The ASW Bloodhound Award is presented annually to one Pacific Fleet and one Atlantic Fleet ship for exceptional performance in the ASW mission area. Barry was selected for consistently demonstrating technical prowess, high levels of equipment readiness, and the overall level of skill and training of her operators. Over the past five years, multiple

forward-deployed Yokosuka based ships have won this prestigious fleet-wide award, including last year’s recipient USS Milius (DDG 69). “Barry’s Sailors are truly the finest operators I’ve had the privilege of working with,” said Lt. Paris Bess, Barry’s anti-submarine warfare officer . “2020 provided an unprecedented opportunity for Barry to sharpen our ASW skills. The team worked incredibly hard and overcame a diverse set of challenges, leading to breakthroughs in how our Navy hunts for submarines.” Throughout 2020, Barry conducted numerous training events, bi-lateral and multi-national exercises, and operations throughout the Indo-Pacific testing and highlighting the crew’s ability to conduct both strike group and theater ASW. Working alongside regional partners and allies, Barry integrated proven

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tactics and techniques with emerging technologies to sharpen independent, joint, and multi-national ASW proficiency. During the 2020 U.S. Navy/Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) Bi-Lateral Advanced Warfighting Training (BAWT) exercise, Barry conducted simulated integrated submarine engagements with USS Mustin (DDG 89) and multiple JMDSF ships, as well as both USN and JMSDF maritime patrol aircraft. Additionally, Barry conducted multiple ASW-related events during exercises Pacific Vanguard, Valiant Shield, and Keen Sword, in locations across the 7th Fleet area of operations. “Our team trains well and executes even better. I am extremely proud of our ASW team,” said Cmdr. Chris Gahl, commanding officer of USS Barry. “Our team’s ability

to immediately cooperate with our partners and allies strengthens our united force, which pays dividends during real-world operations as we work together to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific. We will fly the Bloodhound pennant with pride.” After official notification of the award, Capt. Chase Sargeant, commodore, Destroyer Squadron 15, presented Barry with the Bloodhound pennant which will be flown throughout 2021. “To see the pennant fly over my ship and know that I belong the best ASW ship in the Pacific Fleet makes me feel extremely proud to be a part of this Barry team,” said Sonar Technician Surface 2nd Class Mavrik McMeekan. “This is why they call Barry the finest forward deployed destroyer.” Barry is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. As the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed fleet, 7th Fleet employs 50 to 70 ships and submarines across the Western Pacific and Indian Oceans. U.S. 7th Fleet routinely operates and interacts with 35 maritime nations while conducting missions to preserve and protect a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

The Military Sealift Command (MSC) expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Carson City (EPF 7) arrived in Port Sudan, Sudan for a port visit, Feb. 24. (COURTESY PHOTO)

USNS Carson City arrives in Port Sudan From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa / U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs PORT SUDAN, Sudan — The Military Sealift Command (MSC) expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Carson City (EPF 7) arrived in Port Sudan, Sudan for a port visit, Feb. 24. This is the first U.S. Navy ship visit to Sudan since the creation of U.S. Africa Command, and highlights U.S. engagement that strives to build a partnership with the Sudanese Armed Forces.

“We are honored to work with our Sudanese partners in the enhancement of maritime security,” said Capt. Frank Okata, commodore, Military Sealift Command Europe and Africa and Commander, Task Force 63. Carson City’s visit follows the visit by U.S. Africa Command’s Deputy Commander for Civil-Military Engagement, Ambassador Andrew Young, and Director of Intelligence, Rear Adm. Heidi Berg, Jan. 25-27, which fostered cooperative engagement and expanded partnership development. “We are at a moment of fundamental

change in the bilateral relationship between the United States and Sudan, made possible by the efforts of Sudan’s civilian-led transitional government to chart a bold new course away from the legacy of the previous regime,” said Young. “This fundamental change has enabled the partnership between the Sudanese military and U.S. Africa Command to develop and expand.” Prior to the port visit to Sudan, Carson City operated in the Red Sea. Carson City’s presence in the Red Sea helps promote peace, security, and freedom of the seas and is a

demonstration of the U.S. commitment to maritime security and stability in the region. “This ship’s presence visit to Port Sudan is a demonstration of our commitment to strengthening the relationship between the United States and Sudan as the Sudanese people seek a democratic future,” said U.S. Embassy Khartoum Chargé d’Affaires, Brian Shukan. “This visit in turn helps to promote peace, security, and preserve freedom of the seas.” Like all EPFs, Carson City conducts overseas operations, and supports logistics and humanitarian aid. The ship is crewed by nearly 35 U.S. Navy Sailors and civil service mariners. MSC operates approximately 125 naval auxiliary civilian-crewed ships, replenishes U.S. Navy ships, strategically prepositions combat cargo at sea, and moves military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners around the world. U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts joint and naval operations in order to support regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

Navy College Program sunsets mobile app, transitions to DANTES MilEd Beneﬁts App By Cheryl Dengler

Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center Public Affairs PENSACOLA, Fla. — On 26 Feb., the Navy College Program (NCP) mobile app will sunset and Sailors will need to transition to the DANTES (Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support) MilEd Benefits mobile app for detailed education information and support. The move to the MilEd Benefits mobile app will provide Sailors all the education information they need in one app. “Primarily, this transition allows a more streamlined way for Sailors to access information about all of their education options, including testing, apprenticeships and credentialing,” said Leslie Dickey, Navy Voluntary Education communication program manager. Sailors will find a host of material at their fingertips in the MilEd Benefits app Navy e-Guide, which includes information about the NCP, Tuition Assistance, Navy College Program for Afloat College Education, United Services Military Apprenticeship Program, and Navy Credentialing Opportunities On-Line. “The e-Guide provides all of the same information that was housed in the NCP mobile app and contains links to MyNavy Education and the newly-revamped Navy College Program website,” said Dickey. “This way, Sailors have a quick view experience via the MilEd Benefits app and still have easy ‘on-the-go’ access to our website for more detailed information and assistance.” The move also enhances the existing integrated relationship between the NCP and DANTES. “This gave us the perfect opportunity to work more closely with DANTES, and to supply our Sailors with the most current educational opportunities and information,” said Dickey. “The app also provides the most up-to-date information on the DANTES testing program, which is very important to our service members getting started on their education goals.” Erin Roberts, a spokesperson for DANTES, said working with the Navy will ultimately provide the

A Sailor uses the DANTES MilEd Benefits mobile app to view Navy College Program education information. (CHERYL DENGLER) most relevant information to Sailors. “The MilEd Benefits mobile app brings together the most up-to-date information on DoD and service-specific education programs, services, and additional resources,” said Roberts. “We will continue to partner with the U.S. Navy to keep the MilEd Benefits app a great place for Sailors to learn about their education benefits and how to access them.” An added bonus for service members using the MilEd Benefits app is that program updates can now be pushed to the service member via the app. “Testing updates, special promotions, and any major Navy College Program updates can all be

pushed via the app,” said Dickey. “It is the best way for our service members to stay up to date.” The MilEd Beneﬁts app is now available on the Navy App Locker as well as app stores on mobile devices. For more information on the Navy College Program, visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil. The NCVEC can be reached Monday — Friday, 7 a.m. — 7 p.m. Eastern time, toll free at 1-877-838-1659. For OCONUS NCO information, visit https://www.navycollege.navy.mil/ oconus-offices.htm. For more information about the DANTES MilEd Beneﬁts app, go to https://www.dantes.doded.mil/

Resources/MilEdBeneﬁts.html As part of the MyNavy HR Force Development team, Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center (NETPDC) provides products and services that enable and enhance education, training, career development, and personnel advancement throughout the Navy. Primary elements of the command include the Voluntary Education Department, the Navy Advancement Center and the Resources Management Department. Additional information about NETPDC can be found at https://www.netc.navy.mil/NETPDC/.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 5

A Sailor mans the rails on the ﬂight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz , part of Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, returned to Naval Base San Diego after a more than 10-month deployment to U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 7th Fleet. (MC3 JOSE MADRIGAL)

Nimitz Carrier Strike Group returns from deployment From Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet Public Affairs SAN DIEGO — More than 5,000 Sailors and Marines assigned to the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) returned to San Diego Feb. 26 after nearly 11-months deployed in the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of operation. NIMCSG was the first carrier strike group to embark on a deployment for the U.S. Navy after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The strike group was comprised of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 11, aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17, Destroyer Squadron 9, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Sterett (DDG 104). “The Sailors and Marines of Nimitz Strike Group and their families have given it their all for almost a year. They successfully kept COVID out of the strike group beginning in April of 2020, and stayed healthy throughout our time standing the watch for our nation,”

said Rear Adm. Jim Kirk, commander, CSG-11. “These young men and women worked tirelessly to incorporate mitigations that ensured the health, safety, and readiness of the crews. They made important contributions to the security and stability in the Middle East, Africa, and Western Pacific during a period of tension and transitions. I am immensely proud of this team and all that they accomplished during this unprecedented deployment.” The flagship crew walked aboard Nimitz on April 1, 2020, at their homeport Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton, Washington. Sailors stationed in San Diego embarked later that week aboard Princeton and Sterett for a restriction-of-movement period to ensure the health and safety of the crew during the pandemic. NIMCSG departed San Diego for deployment on June 8 following strike group integrated training. While deployed, the strike group completed five dual-carrier operations in the U.S. 7th

Fleet area of operation with the Ronald Reagan and Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Groups, and participated in the Indiahosted multinational exercise Malabar 2020 with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Australian Navy in the Bay of Bengal. In the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operation, NIMCSG supported Operation Freedom’s Sentinel as part of the NATO-led Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan, and Operation Inherent Resolve with close air support and defensive counter-air missions against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. The strike group provided associated and direct support to the 33-nation coalition Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the 8-nation coalition International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC) to ensure the free flow of commerce and maritime security in three critical waterways. NIMCSG also operated off the coast of Somalia in December to support Joint Task Force —Quartz and Operation Octave Quartz during repositioning of U.S. forces within East Africa.

“It’s hard to express in words the overwhelming sense of accomplishment and pride felt by all hands aboard Nimitz as this long deployment comes to a close,” said Capt. Max Clark, Nimitz’s commanding officer. “I am so very proud of this crew, and the grit and teamwork they demonstrated day in and day out to complete all missions assigned. They and their families have my deepest respect and gratitude.” After disembarking CVW-17, Nimitz will return to its homeport at Naval Base Kitsap — Bremerton. CVW-17 consists of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 137, VFA 94, VFA 22, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 323, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 116, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73 and Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 30. U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navy’s timeless roles of sea control and power projection. U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close coordination with other numbered Fleets to provide commanders with capable, ready assets to deploy forward and win in day-to-day competition, in crisis, and in conflict. For more information on the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group, please visit https:// www.airpac.navy.mil/nimitz.

Submarine Forces hosts 2021 DESI closing ceremony By Holly Carey

Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK — Commander, Submarine Forces hosted a combined Diesel-Electric Submarine Initiative (DESI) closing ceremony for the conclusion of the 2021 deployment season with Colombian submarine ARC Pijao (SS 28) and Peruvian submarine BAP Pisagua (SS 33) on Naval Station Mayport, Florida, Feb. 26. Established by U.S. Fleet Forces Command in 2001, the DESI program is a U.S. Navy partnership with South American countries and supports their diesel-electric submarine operations and fleet readiness events in operating areas off the U.S. east and west coasts. During the ceremony, Rear Adm. Thomas Wall, Submarine Force Atlantic’s reserve deputy commander, congratulated and thanked the captains and crews of Pijao and Pisagua for their outstanding performance and participation. “Capt. Diego Bautista and Cmdr. Luis Deza and the officers and crew of ARC Pijao and BAP Pisagua continued the tradition of excellence, performing their assigned mission with silent pride and professionalism in support of the several anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercises,” said Wall. “You have continued the DESI tradition of “top-notch” Colombian and Peruvian submarine support to the U.S. Navy.” Pijao and Pisagua deployed to the Jacksonville Operating Areas for a combined total of 205 days and provided realistic ASW training, representative of the modern diesel-electric submarine threat, while opposing the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group during a composite unit training exercise. Vice Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander,

Rear Adm. Thomas Wall, Submarine Forces Atlantic’s reserve deputy commander, gives keynote remarks at the Diesel-Electric Submarine Initiative (DESI) closing ceremony held aboard Naval Station Mayport, Feb. 26. (MC1 JACOB SIPPEL)

Submarine Forces, praised the crew members and shared his appreciation for their efforts in partnering to confront real world threats. “Thank you for providing us the opportunity to work alongside and learn from you in another successful DESI deployment,” said Caudle. “These exercises avail operators from participating countries with unmatched, realistic training designed to improve lethality and warfare skills against proliferating, real world threats. We will continue to work closely together toward achieving our shared objectives to improve our combined undersea effectiveness.” The completion of this exercise marks Colombia’s 11th and Peru’s 17th deployment

in the DESI initiative. The Colombian Navy conducted their first DESI deployment in 2004 and the Peruvian Navy in 2002. Since then, Colombian and Peruvian Navy submarines combined have participated in 1,770 days of ASW training exercises and events with the U.S. Atlantic and Pacific fleets. These ASW exercises serve as the final certification for our carrier strike group prior to deployment. “Although we live on different continents and speak different languages, Colombia, Peru, and the United States rely on the ocean for trade,” said Wall. “Our nations have a responsibility to ensure the sea lanes remain open and accessible for commerce, and deny access to criminals who use the sea for illicit

purposes.” Current navies participating in DESI include Colombia, Peru and Chile. The mission of the Submarine Force is to execute the Department of the Navy’s mission in and from the undersea domain. In addition to lending added capacity to naval forces, the Submarine Force, in particular, is expected to leverage those special advantages that come with undersea concealment to permit operational, deterrent and combat effects that the Navy and nation could not otherwise achieve. The Submarine Force and supporting organizations constitute the primary undersea arm of the Navy. Submarines and their crews remain the tip of the undersea spear.

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

A Sailor speaks with Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III during the secretary’s visit on the USS Nimitz, Feb. 25. (USAF Staff Sgt. JACK SANDERS)

Austin praises Nimitz Carrier Strike Group for record-breaking deployment By Jim Garamone

DOD News Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN — Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III flew out to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz off the coast of California to thank the crew for a record-setting deployment. The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is returning after operations in U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Central Command areas of responsibility. It was the first carrier strike group to deploy under COVID-19 protocols. By the time the carrier strike group reaches home, the sailors and Marines aboard will have been gone for 321 days. The Nimitz, the cruiser USS Princeton, and the destroyers USS Sterett and USS Ralph Johnson made up the group. “You’ve just demonstrated incredible profes-

sionalism, resilience and focus,” Austin told the crew over the ship-wide public address system. “It’s been very impressive.” The group provided carrier support in the Persian Gulf in support of Centcom during a particularly tense time with Iran. The group also participated in maritime exercise Malabar 2020 alongside Indian, Australian and Japanese ships. The carrier strike group also participated in dual-carrier operations with the USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Ronald Reagan carrier strike groups. The group also operated in the South China Sea, as well. Austin praised the group for these efforts. “You’ve sent a clear message about America’s resolve,” he told the crew. “Any potential adversary out there — in this ocean or any other ocean — has to know when they look at what you accomplished, that the United States takes very seriously our security commitments

around the world.” He thanked the sailors for working with key allies and partners across the U.S. combatant commands. The Nimitz Carrier Strike Group had the longest deployment since the Vietnam War. It was lengthened by COVID-19 protocols that called for a quarantine before departing and the elimination of port calls during the deployment. The Navy aims for deployments to be roughly six months. The Nimitz group will be away from family and friends almost twice that. “I don’t want deployments this long to be the norm,” the secretary said. “And so, we need to take a hard look at that, but you handled it very, very well. You led. You took care of each other in the midst of a pandemic, and you were a team.” In a news conference with Pentagon reporters on the hangar deck, Austin thanked families in

particular. “Their families have been very, very supportive as well,” he said. “And I want to make sure I give them a shout out again, and provide our thanks for their sacrifices.” The Nimitz was on its way home from the Centcom area of responsibility when events in the region necessitated its return. Events such as these happen. He noted the year-long deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan that stretched to 18 months, as an example. “I understand the stress that, that can place on families,” he said. “So as secretary, what I want to do is make sure that … going forward, we do everything we can to minimize that kind of stress.” That means taking care of equipment, sure, but really ensuring that service members and their families are taken care of. “We’re going to continue to learn,” he said. “We’re going to continue to make sure we have the resources. [We’re going to ensure] that we’re doing the right things to pace ourselves going forward. Because I really think this is important.” Overall, the carrier strike group steamed more than 87,300 nautical miles during its deployment. The carrier launched 10,185 sorties totaling 23,410 flight hours logged.

NMCSD launches MHS Genesis By MC1 Vernishia Vaughn

Naval Medical Center San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO — Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) celebrated the launch of a new electronic health record system, MHS Genesis with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the hospital, Feb. 27. Before cutting the ribbon, Capt. Brad Smith, NMCSD’s commanding officer share remarks thanking the MHS Genesis team for their hard work. “You’ve all done an amazing job and I thank you,” said Smith. “I appreciate all of your hard work and look forward to what’s to come.” The hospital’s launch of MHS GENESIS followed months of extensive preparation to include staff training, internal infrastructure changes and equipment upgrades. Patients were informed of the change via pamphlets, flyers, social media and provider education during patient visits. When the electronic health record system is fully launched across the enterprise, all patient records will be found in one single records system. In addition, for the first time ever, all military branches will use one electronic health records system so that no matter where patients receive their care, their records will follow them. A key feature and benefit for patients is the MHS GENESIS Patient Portal, a one-stop shop for viewing personal health

care and history that allows two-way communication between patient and provider. The portal is a secure website for around-the-clock access to individual and family health information, including visit notes, test results, scheduling appointments, and online prescription renewal. As with other facilities who have already launched MHS GENESIS, patients can expect to see reduced appointment availability during the coming weeks. “This is necessary to ensure that the provider teams have sufficient time during and between appointments to deliver safe care while navigating the new system,” said Capt. Matthew Wauson, NMCSD MHS Genesis Lead. During a brief meeting, Wauson shared that wait times may take longer than usual, however, things should be back to normal soon and encouraged patience and understanding during this time. MHS GENESIS replaces a patchwork of legacy systems and will make inpatient and outpatient information instantly available wherever it is needed across the continuum of care, from point of injury to the military treatment facility. When fully implemented, each service member, veteran, and family member will have a single health record. During the 2019 Society of Federal Health Professionals’ annual meeting, Air Force Maj. Gen. Lee Payne, assistant director for Combat Support at the Defense Health Agency, said the MHS

(From left to right) Capt. Brad Smith, Naval Medical Center San Diego (NMCSD) commanding officer, Capt. Matthew Wauson, MHS Genesis Lead, LCDR Amanda Kuckza, MHS Genesis Training Lead, LCDR Joshua Wymer, MHS Genesis Lead, and Air Force Col. Thomas Cantilina. (MC1 VERNISHIA VAUGHN)

GENESIS implementation process has included careful and comprehensive testing of medical devices, cloud computing resources, and other computer security protocols that make MHS GENESIS “probably the most secure system on the planet right now.” NMCSD is one of many military treatment facilities across the DOD to implement MHS GENESIS. Full deployment of

this new electronic health records system is expected to be complete by 2022 and serve more than nine million beneﬁciaries. NMCSD employs more than 6,000 active-duty military personnel, civilians and contractors in Southern California to provide patients with world-class care anytime, anywhere. Visit navy.mil/local/sd/ or facebook. com/NMCSD for more information.

TOGETHER WE WIN 52,000 IN 52 WEEKS TO 52 WORTHY CHARITIES

“On behalf of Kids Soar, I wish to thank Rosie’s Gaming Emporium for donating $1,000 to our organization and to Ernie Dellaverson for nominating us for this award. The grant will go towards our literacy after-school program, which helps children in grades K-6 “soar” to a better future through reading.”

Candace Hess

Kids Soar Executive Director Every week in 2021 we will donate $1,000 to a local nonprofit that is providing valuable services in the areas we are located. Helping those communities around us is at the core of our operational philosophy. We truly believe that high tides raise all ships and we are determined to add value to the communities in which we operate. Through the charitable program, Rosie’s Gives Back, Colonial Downs Group has made monetary and in-kind donations of more than $1,125,500, and has logged over 1,100 service hours in Virginia communities.

Must be 18 or older. Problem Gaming? Call the Virginia Help Line at 1-888-532-3500.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 7

An Unseen Adversary: USS Ronald Reagan’s unprecedented ﬁght against COVID-19 By MC2 Erica Bechard

Uss Ronald Reagan Public Affairs

PACIFIC OCEAN — “I-L-I reported in compartment three tack, one eight zero tack, zero tack, quebec. Away the COVID response team away. All hands not involved stand clear.” Announcing an “ILI,” or influenza-like illness, hasn’t always been a standard announcement on a U.S. Navy warship’s 1MC (ship’s announcement system). But aboard the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), it’s about as common as hearing “mail call” since the ship returned to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY), November 2020, following a six-month deployment to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility. The ILI response is just one of many tools implemented by Ronald Reagan and its medical department in the fight against COVID-19. Since returning to CFAY, leadership established an entirely new department, the COVID Response Center (CRC), aboard the ship. They also partnered with U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka to vaccinate thousands of Sailors from Ronald Reagan, all other ships on the waterfront, and several shore commands. Additionally, the CRC continually advises and enforces command mitigations and policies, while also coordinating with support units ashore in providing care for Sailors with positive COVID-19 test results, symptoms, and those arriving from outside Japan. Ronald Reagan’s response efforts began before the ship’s return to stay ahead of any complications and help ease the base concerns surrounding the return of thousands of Sailors. Bringing 3,000 Sailors back to Japan Naturally, the idea of bringing approximately 3,000 Sailors back to CFAY stirred up concerns among leadership and the CFAY community. Ronald Reagan Sailors had been in a COVID-free “bubble” for several months, and re-introducing them to the community had to be done carefully. “A few weeks out, we had already started talking about how COVID was going to impact our return to Yokosuka,” said Capt. Fred Goldhammer, commanding officer of Ronald Reagan. “It was a mindset shift for us — we had a COVID-free bubble established. So we had to start thinking about how going back to Yokosuka meant breaking that bubble.” Ronald Reagan leadership began preparations for the return while underway to stay ahead of the curve and plan for ways to quickly identify COVID once back in Yokosuka. “We had a whole standard operating procedure for when we returned to Yokosuka,” said Capt. Merrill Rice, Ronald Reagan’s senior medical officer. “It would allow us to quickly identify a COVID case either by evaluating a Sailor at the base hospital’s Acute Respiratory Care Clinic (ARCC) or evaluating them on the ship.” Rapid detection and response The shipboard procedure for Sailors with symptoms are the ILI responses, said Rice. In pre-COVID-19 days, Sailors would report to the ship’s main medical clinic for any symptom or injury. Now, Sailors with flu-like symptoms stay in place and call main medical to report their symptoms. This initiates the ILI response on the 1MC. A dedicated team from ship’s medical will don suits and escort the Sailor from their space to the closest medical treatment space, usually a battle dressing station (BDS). The ILI response not only keeps a possible COVID-positive Sailor from infecting others in the main medical space, but allows the medical team to assess and test the Sailor in an isolated space, the BDS. Sailors experiencing flu-like symptoms off the ship are directed to report to the ARCC for examination and testing. At least one Ronald Reagan corpsman works at the ARCC to provide support for Ronald Reagan Sailors, said Rice. The ILI response and ARCC continue to prove essential in detecting COVID-19 among Ronald Reagan’s crew. But, what happens if a Sailor does test positive? Ronald Reagan developed key support teams aboard and ashore to quickly respond. Expanding the response effort Ronald Reagan’s plans to return to Yokosuka included the formation of support

Machinist’s Mate (Nuclear) 1st Class Sian Tweeddale, assigned to the U.S. Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), receives the COVID-19 vaccine on Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY). (MC3 QUINTON LEE)

teams to aid in the response to any positive COVID-19 cases. “COVID mitigation efforts while underway had to be expanded once ashore,” said Goldhammer. This included the formation of the ship’s unofficial “21st department,” the CRC, and the shore-based COVID Support Team. The CRC is considered the “central nervous system” of the entire operation, said Cmdr. Mark David, director of the CRC. “The purpose of the CRC is to protect the ship, and we do that by protecting the health of our Sailors. By maintaining a healthy workforce, we can get through SRA (Ship’s Restricted Availability) and the maintenance we need to complete, and be ready to deploy.” The CRC handles the logistics and administrative side of Ronald Reagan’s COVID response. It consists of a small number of Sailors from other departments and operates 24/7 aboard the ship, keeping the most updated status of Sailors in quarantine or travel restriction of movement (ROM). If a Sailor tests positive, either at the ARCC or aboard the ship, medical staff notify the CRC immediately. The CRC then coordinates to place the Sailor in quarantine off the ship and works to quickly identify the Sailor’s close contacts, said David. Once the response process moves to shore, it’s taken over by the COVID Support Team (CST) — another lifeline in Ronald Reagan’s fight against COVID-19. The CST is based in the CFAY barracks where Ronald Reagan Sailors reside, whether for quarantine or in travel ROM after arriving in Japan. Along with the “Reagan Ranch” — the ship’s new arrival support branch — the CST is responsible for the complete support and care of these Sailors in isolation, said Master Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Jose Rivera, the officerin-charge at Reagan Ranch. “The COVID Support Team provides support for service members and their family who are going into ROM or quarantine,” said Rivera. “Personnel arriving in Japan are picked up at the bus terminal by Reagan Ranch staff. They are taken to the ROM and quarantine facilities, and the COVID Support Team takes over from there, checking them into a room, and providing meals and essentials during their 14-day stay. The Sailor’s information is then provided to the CRC who track their isolation time and test results. There are a lot of moving parts and things that come together to make the COVID Support Team work.” The 50 Ronald Reagan Sailors who comprise the CST do everything from delivering food and essentials, installing Wi-Fi and TVs in rooms, and coordinating chaplain services if Sailors feel negatively impacted from the isolation time, said Rivera. “At the end of the day, I want everyone to know that every Sailor and family member that comes through here is taken care of, and that’s our main mission.” Goldhammer reflected upon the efforts of the shipboard and ashore support teams in the three months that Ronald Reagan has been back in Yokosuka. “Since November, we’ve applied an estimated 24,000 man-hours to organize our response, get Sailors and their families the care they need, and stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Goldhammer. “It’s completely different from anything we’d ever done before.” Vaccinating the waterfront: a team effort The next leap in Ronald Reagan’s fight against COVID-19 came around the end of December 2020, when the COVID-19 vaccine became available for the ship’s crew as part of the vaccination plan for all units operating under Commander, Seventh Fleet.

“We partnered with U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka to organize an entire waterfront vaccination effort,” said Goldhammer. “Our aim was to get Ronald Reagan Sailors and Sailors on other ships and commands at CFAY vaccinated so we can work towards establishing ‘herd immunity.’ ” Vaccinating a community as large as CFAY posed challenges — the first of which was finding a suitable location. Rivera and Reagan Ranch staff reserved the Hawk’s Nest, one of CFAY’s indoor fitness facilities that consists of a large, open court and mat area. They set up the facility to allow for social distancing through every step of the vaccination process. Additionally, Ronald Reagan’s leadership faced the challenge of educating the crew about the vaccine. “Given how new the vaccine was, it required a pretty massive educational undertaking to make sure the crew understood how the vaccine works, how it’s regulated, why it’s good to take the vaccine, and how it’s going to help us defeat COVID-19,” said Goldhammer. Ronald Reagan’s medical and media departments teamed up to educate the crew before and during the vaccination process. Lt. Cmdr. Dawn Stankus, the ship’s public affairs officer, and the Ronald Reagan media department, faced an interesting endeavor when asked to take somewhat intricate medical information about a new vaccine and break it down for the crew and the waterfront in a relatively simplistic way. From a broad perspective, the vaccine was still relatively new, and, obviously, Sailors had some apprehensions about the vaccine’s side effects and how receiving the vaccine would inevitably help with the ship’s, and the fleet’s, overall fight against COVID. “The mass communication specialists on Ronald Reagan are extraordinarily creative and impressive communicators,” said Stankus. “When faced with a complex communication initiative, like the one associated with the COVID vaccine, they tackled it full on and developed a variety of useful products to assist their shipmates in their overall decision to receive the vaccine. Both doses.” Stankus explained that the media department created a COVID-19 vaccine information booklet, posters, infographics, flyers, videos, print stories, social media posts, and even a sticker design to excite and inform the crew throughout the vaccination process. “What made this communication campaign slightly more multifaceted than others, is the fact that the vaccine is sanctioned under an ‘Emergency Use Authorization’ and is still voluntary for military members,” said Stankus. “Informing the crew truthfully and accurately, so that they could make their own decision, was extremely important to me and my team. On Ronald Reagan we all desire for an end to this pandemic to protect the crew, our families, our partners, and our mission. Maximum vaccination participation, I truly believe, is the first step for this hope to become a reality.” The education effort opened up a dialogue and allowed Sailors the opportunity to ask medical professionals on and off ship, as well as their chains of command, questions about the vaccine. When Sailors received the shot, they were armed with all the details necessary to understand the side effects and potential recovery time. Members of the crew understand that masks and physical distancing will still be necessary until the vaccine is proven to provide long-term protection. “Ronald Reagan and U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka Sailors have administered thou-

sands of shots to the waterfront,” said Goldhammer. “This vaccine puts us on the offense to get a jump-start on beating COVID-19, and our vaccination efforts have been incredibly successful.” The 76 reasons Every Sailor who has received the vaccine on Ronald Reagan has done so for a reason. Whether it’s for the hope to “return to normal,” in memory of a family member who has died from the terrible illness, or to support the mission of the U.S. Navy and the Ronald Reagan, there are many reasons why Sailors have made the choice. For Electronics Technician (Nuclear) 2nd Class Christian Yovan, getting vaccinated was important for long-term protection. “I got the vaccine for protection, and so I wouldn’t spread the virus to any of my friends and coworkers on watch,” said Yovan. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) Airman Matthew Rolen received the second vaccination early February and emphasized the vaccine is important for family. “I’m glad for the second shot because I’m hoping to see the results of our steps, maybe see if it will change the way we move forward,” said Rolen. “On a personal note, I’ve had people back home pass away because of COVID-19. Some family has gotten it, and they’ve gone through some issues because of it. I might be young and healthy, but I might spread it to my grandparents or my uncle, and that’s on me. I recommend everyone get it.” Chief Machinery Repairman Fransisco Barrera explained that being vaccinated provides a peace of mind that he is doing his part in the fight against COVID-19. “I tell people ‘you don’t really get it, until it happens to you,’ ” said Barrera. “You’re not going to feel it until it happens to you, and you’re going to feel it. That’s when I felt it, when I had my uncle die of COVID19 a few months back. We might not see the [impact of the] vaccination right away, but we have to trust the scientists, and everyone who has devoted their lives to make this vaccine happen. Every day we live and serve, we’re making history, and right now everyone here [getting the shot] is making history.” A hopeful outlook It’s been close to one year since Ronald Reagan’s first ILI response aired over the ship’s 1MC. Reflecting on the past year, the ship’s crew faced challenges and adapted to changes like ILIs, social distancing, wearing masks and other precautions, and maintained resilience throughout this fight against COVID-19. The progress wouldn’t be possible without the teamwork of the Ronald Reagan crew, the COVID Support Team, the CRC, and U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka. “We’ve employed an impressive amount of original work through this whole process,” said Goldhammer. “From the leadership efforts of every department on board, the education aspect and the formation of support teams to get our entire crew coordinated and through the vaccination process — all while still maintaining our COVID response processes — we’ve been able to expand our efforts past the ship and to the waterfront.” Though the future of COVID-19 is uncertain, the commitment of Ronald Reagan Sailors to beat the disease is unwavering. By receiving the vaccine and maintaining the ship’s mission-readiness and crew health, the future is optimistic as the ship prepares to deploy again in the coming months. Ronald Reagan continues to lead the fight against COVID-19 in Japan and throughout the fleet.

Greek from Page 1

region. Adak and Maui are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations (AOO) in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. The HS Hydra recently represented Greece at NAVEX 21 held in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The U.S. 5th Fleet AOO encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse is comprised of 20 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at The U.S. Coast Guard cutter USCGC Maui (WPB 1304) and the Greek navy guided-missile frigate HS Hydra (F452) participate in a passing exercise the southern tip of Yemen. in the Arabian Gulf, Feb. 25, 2021. (COURTESY PHOTO)

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 1

Coconut Cream Pie Coconut cream pie is the stuff that dreams are made of: Crispy, ﬂaky pie crust ﬁlled with a thick, creamy coconut custard. PAGE C4

“We Can Create”by Esteban del Valle

NEON District Hosting Open Call For Outdoor Art Installation From Downtown Norfolk Council NORFOLK, Va. — The NEON District is hosting an open call for artists to show their work as part of an outdoor installation. With construction fencing now surrounding the former Greyhound Bus Station, the NEON District will install 20 vinyl mesh panels along Granby Street and Brambleton Avenue. “We see this as an opportunity to activate this area of the NEON District,” said Rachel McCall, director of strategic initiatives for Downtown Norfolk Council. “The City of Norfolk is currently assessing future uses of

the site, and we thought it would be an ideal opportunity to showcase even more local artists in this very visible location.” Artists are encouraged to submit artwork reflecting the changes and history of Downtown Norfolk and its neighborhoods. The NEON District, like many areas of Norfolk, was built on old waterways filled in for urban growth. The NEON District is also designated Auto Row Historic District for its defining role in the sales and production of Norfolk’s automobile industry. How do these two histories shape the neighborhood, physically and metaphorically? Artists are encouraged to reflect on ques-

tions like, as neighborhoods in Norfolk evolve, what do you see? What do you miss? What do you think of when you envision the NEON District? Artists should explore themes of memory, history, time, future, community, evolution and creativity. There is a $10 fee for up to eight submissions. Open Call Details: · Submissions can be photography, digitally-produced artworks or photographs of 2D or 3D works of art. · Landscape or portrait works can be submitted. Landscape artworks will be sized to 40” H x 60” W. Portrait artworks will be sized to 48” H x 36” W.

· If selected, artists will work with the printer to produce large-scale, high resolution files to be printed on mesh banners. Artists are not required for installation. · Artists should provide name, title of work, year, medium and a short description to be printed on a 6” x 12” panel next to the work. · $100 honorarium will be awarded to selected artists. The installation is sponsored by Downtown Norfolk Council and City of Norfolk Department of Economic Development The open call went live on February 26, and submissions are due by March 21 at 11:59 pm. Selections will be made by the NEON District Public Art Committee, a diverse team of artists, cultural partners and neighborhood residents. Selected works will be installed in April 2021 and will be on display for six months with the potential to remain on view longer. For more information and to apply, visit https://neondistrict. submittable.com/submit.

Hampton History Museum Offers Phoebus Photographs Talk and St. From The Hampton History Museum HAMPTON, Va—Author and community historian Tim Recevuer offers a photographic journey through Phoebus’ storied past with numerous images dating from the mid-1800s to the present in a virtual talk based on his latest book about “Little Chicago.” The Celtic band Poisoned Dwarf make a virtual return to the museum’s music series for an online St. Patrick’s Day concert after last year’s live event had to be cancelled due to COVID-19. Virtual Port Hampton Lecture Little Chicago: Phoebus in Photos Hampton History Museum Facebook Live - Monday, March 1, 7:00 p.m. Author Tim Receveur of PhoebusMemories.org presents an illustrated lecture exploring the lively and colorful story of Phoebus through photographs for this Facebook Live event. Phoebus has been called many things. Kecoughtan, Mill Creek, Elizabeth City, and Chesapeake City have been some of the official names on maps over the years. The unofﬁcial ones have ranged greatly from “Little Chicago,” due to its connection with the Chesapeake and Ohio railroad and bootlegging during Prohibition, to the garden spot of Hampton, depending on the time period and the people asked. Receveur’s talk is based on his recent book, “Little Chicago: Phoebus in Photos,” that pulls together hundreds of images from Phoebus history, from the dawn of photography during the Civil War to the

COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, to provide a glimpse of the people and places that made Phoebus what it is today. The book "Little Chicago: Phoebus in Photos" can be purchased at these Phoebus locations: Roberts Antiques, The Way We Were Bookshop, Honey House Boutique, and Mallory Ritz. Proceeds support Phoebus businesses Virtual Front Porch Music Series Poisoned Dwarf St. Patrick’s Day Concert Hampton History Museum Facebook Live - Wednesday, March 17, 7:00 p.m. Enjoy this virtual concert of music from the Emerald Isle for the soundtrack to your St. Patricks Day celebration! Poisoned Dwarf is a Celtic music group that plays virtuosic, innovative and passionate renditions of traditional Irish and Scottish music on acoustic instruments. Five talented musicians create a driving sonic energy that has been captivating audiences for over a decade with whistles, ﬂutes, violin, guitar, percussion, and uilleann pipes together with exciting and lyrical vocals. Poisoned Dwarf are Thomas DeRose, Stewart Pittman, Lance Pedigo, Mei-Li Garcia and Patrick Rooney. Hampton city offices and buildings continue to be accessible by appointment only due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hampton History Museum and Hampton Visitor Center are available for appointments to access museum galleries for selfguided tours by calling 757-727-1102.

Left to Right: Mei-Li Garcia, Stewart Pittman, Thomas DeRose, Lance Pedigo, and Patrick Rooney.

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Community Submit YOUR events, news and photos

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Representatives from Newport News Shipbuilding and Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg recognized the start of the 19th house shipyard volunteers will build in partnership with Habitat since 2002. Participating in the groundbreaking were, from left, Stephen Abbitt, president of the board for Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg; Xavier Beale, Newport News Shipbuilding vice president of trades; and future homeowner Mickeia Hunter. (LENA WALLACE/HII)

Newport News Shipbuilding Hosts Groundbreaking for 19th Habitat for Humanity Build Project From Huntington Ingalls Industries NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding division today hosted the groundbreaking for a new home that will be built in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg. Adhering to COVID-19 protocols, a private gathering was held at the site of the 19th build project to be undertaken by Habitat and shipyard volunteers since the collaboration began in 2002. Attending the socially distanced event were Newport News Shipbuilding representatives, Habitat staff and the future homeowners, Mickeia Hunter and her sons, 18-year-old Cinque and 7-year-old Nehemiah.

“It’s been nearly 20 years now that our shipbuilders have partnered with Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg to build these homes that provide families a place where they can feel protected and secure,” said Xavier Beale, vice president of trades for Newport News, who is the executive sponsor of the project. “At Newport News Shipbuilding, we know a thing or two about building with security in mind, and like the ships we’ve built for over a century, these homes are built with our hands and our hearts,” Beale said. “We look forward to working with Habitat and the Hunter family to build a home they can be proud of.” A photo accompanying this release is available at: https://newsroom.huntingtoningalls.

com/file/nns-habitat-groundbreaking. The three-bedroom, 1,200-square-foot home will be built in the city’s Southeast community on land donated by the Newport News Redevelopment and Housing Authority. “Mickeia Hunter’s father, Mickey Pittman, just retired from the shipyard, so the family sees it as fate that the shipyard is partnering on this project,” said Janet V. Green, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg. “The Hunters are a particularly close-knit family that have overcome so much adversity, and still have the drive and dedication to move forward and improve their circumstances. In their new home, the Hunters hope to continue their strong bond as a family and create new memories for decades

to come.” Habitat for Humanity Peninsula and Greater Williamsburg is a non-profit organization serving the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson and Williamsburg and the counties of Charles City, James City, New Kent and York. For more information, visit www.HabitatPGW.org. Huntington Ingalls Industries is America’s largest military shipbuilding company and a provider of professional services to partners in government and industry. For more than a century, HII’s Newport News and Ingalls shipbuilding divisions in Virginia and Mississippi have built more ships in more ship classes than any other U.S. naval shipbuilder. HII’s Technical Solutions division supports national security missions around the globe with unmanned systems, defense and federal solutions, and nuclear and environmental services. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, HII employs more than 42,000 people operating both domestically and internationally. For more information, visit: • HII on the web: www.huntingtoningalls. com • HII on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ HuntingtonIngallsIndustries • HII on Twitter: www.twitter.com/hiindustries

“Much like military families, we at Hope For The Warriors pride ourselves in the ability to move and adapt with the changing environment, and these workshops are an example of just that.” To register for the workshop, visit: https://hopeforthewarriors.tfaforms.net/f/ WarriorsCompassWorkshop. About Hope For The Warriors: Founded in 2006, Hope For The Warriors is a national nonprofit dedicated to restoring a sense of self,

family and hope for post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families. Since its inception, Hope For The Warriors has served over 36,000 through a variety of support programs focused on clinical health and wellness, sports and recreation and transition. One of the nonprofit’s first programs, Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships, has awarded over 155 scholarships to caregivers and families of the fallen. For more information, visit hopeforthewarriors.org, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

HOPE FOR THE WARRIORS TO PRESENT VIRTUAL EMPLOYMENT READINESS WORKSHOPS From Hope For The Warriors NORFOLK, Va. — Hope For The Warriors will be presenting a free virtual employee readiness workshop on March 10, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to help active-duty service members, veterans and military spouses in their search for employment. As a part of the nonprofit’s Warrior’s Compass transition program, the Employee Readiness Workshop will provide training to help prepare those in the military landscape for a job search in today’s virtual civilian climate. The workshop will offer tools and tips as well as opportunities to network with other service members, military spouses, and companies committed to hiring those with military backgrounds. Similar workshops will be held June 9 and October 20. Presenters for the March workshop include Miranda Jones, hiring manager from Pentagon Federal Credit Union, and Katie Spinazzola with the Department of Veteran Services. They will cover topics such as resume revision, in-person and virtual interview training, online networking, and open dialogue about military to civilian skillset translation. There will also be a virtual session with employers

Courtesy image

interested in hiring those from the military community. “We’re excited to expand our Warrior’s Compass program to include these vital and free employee readiness workshops,” said Robin Kelleher, co-founder and president/ CEO of Hope For The Warriors. “Transitioning from the military to civilian life or finding a job as an ever-moving military spouse is never simple, and now military families are having to do this within a pandemic.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 3

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

Food

(Mike Garten)

Coconut Cream Pie | Heaven is a place with Coconut Cream Pie By Samantha Macavoy and Kristina Kurek Coconut cream pie is the stuff that dreams are made of: Crispy, flaky pie crust filled with a thick, creamy coconut custard and topped with mounds of homemade whipped cream. Well, it doesn’t have to be a dream anymore. Our straightforward recipe walks you through every step, from mastering pie dough to whisking together an easy custard to whipping cream into light, fluffy peaks. It’s basically just 3 parts that come together to make one unbelievable pie, perfect for Easter dessert or any time your sweet tooth kicks up a serious coconut craving (we have coconut cake for that, too). First make the pie crust dough Ingredients 1 ¼ c. all-purpose flour 1 tbsp. sugar ½ tsp. kosher salt ½ c. (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 2 to 3 tbsp. ice water Directions

Garlic Butter Salmon By The Good Housekeeping Test Garlic Butter Salmon is delicious and impressive enough for company, but easy enough for any night of the week. Salmon slathered in a lemon, honey, butter and garlic sauce is roasted in the oven and served with citrusy white rice that brings even more flavor. It’s the ultimate weeknight meal that is made in one pan and takes just about a half hour from start to finish. Yes — you can have tasty, buttery salmon on the table in well under an hour. So, what’s the secret? The garlic butter keeps the salmon juicy while it roasts, and the gentle heat of the oven ensures that your salmon won’t overcook. If you’re used to cooking salmon on the stovetop, prepare to be amazed by this baked salmon recipe. Plus, this is a relatively hands-off recipe so you can prepare a healthy side dish while the salmon bakes. We love pairing salmon with zesty orange and soy sauce-infused rice. The fluffy starch is the best way to soak up the salmon’s flavorful juices. Ingredients

To food processor, add flour, sugar and salt and pulse once or twice to combine. Add cold butter and pulse until mixture forms pea-size crumbs. Add 2 Tbsp ice water, pulsing until dough forms large clumps and holds together when squeezed (if necessary, add remaining water 1 tsp at a time). Do not overmix. Transfer dough to piece of plastic wrap and shape into a ball, then flatten to form 1-in.-thick disk. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hr and up to 2 days. Now lets start on the putting the pie together Ingredients All-purpose flour, for surface and rolling pin 1 ½ c. large unsweetened coconut flakes 2 13.5-oz cans unsweetened coconut milk (do not use light), unshaken ½ c. granulated sugar, divided ¼ c. cornstarch 5 large egg yolks ¼ c. virgin or unrefined coconut oil (do not use refined) 1 tsp. orange zest plus ½ cup juice 1 tsp. low-sodium soy sauce Kosher salt and pepper 1 c. long-grain white rice 2 tbsp. lemon juice 2 tbsp. honey 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted 1 tbsp. paprika 2 cloves garlic, pressed Kosher salt and pepper 1 ¼ lb. salmon fillet ¼ c. flat-leaf parsley, chopped Directions Heat oven to 400°F. In a small pot, combine orange zest and juice, soy sauce, 1 ½ cups water and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper and bring to a boil. Stir in rice and return to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until all the water is absorbed and rice is tender, 20 to 24 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, honey, butter, paprika, garlic and ¼ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Place salmon, skin side down, on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle the lemon butter mixture over top and sprinkle with half the parsley. Roast until salmon is just opaque throughout, 12 to 18 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve with salmon. Sprinkle with remaining parsley.

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice ½ tsp. pure vanilla extract or coconut extract ¼ tsp. kosher salt 2 tbsp. confectioners’ sugar 1 c. heavy cream Directions Heat oven to 375°F. On lightly floured surface, with floured rolling pin, roll out pie crust to approximately 13-inch circle and fit into a 9-inch pie plate, folding excess under and crimping edges. Prick surface and sides lightly with a fork and freeze 15 minutes. Place crust on baking sheet, line dough with parchment and fill with pie weights. Bake in bottom third of oven 20 minutes. Remove parchment and weights. Return to oven and bake until golden brown, tenting edges of crust with foil if they get too dark, 18 to 23 minutes more. Let cool. Meanwhile, toast coconut on parchment-lined large rimmed baking sheet, stirring halfway through, until golden brown, 3 to 5 minutes. Set aside. Make custard: Open both cans of coco-

(Mike Garten)

nut milk and, scrape ¾ cup solid coconut cream off tops of cans into a small bowl, then cover and refrigerate. Add remaining contents of both cans to a 4-cup measuring cup and stir well to combine (you should have about 2½ cups). Transfer coconut milk to a medium saucepan along with ¼ cup granulated sugar and stir to combine; bring to a boil. While coconut mixture is coming to a boil, in a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch and remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar. Whisk in egg yolks until smooth and lightened in color, 1 minute. When coconut milk mixture reaches a boil, remove from heat and, in small increments, gradually whisk into egg mixture. Transfer mixture back to pot and, whisking constantly, return to a boil. Then cook until thickened, whisking, 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove from heat and whisk in coconut oil, lemon juice, vanilla and salt. Continue whisking every so often until custard has cooled slightly, about 8 minutes. Transfer mixture to cooled pie crust and press on piece of plastic wrap so it touches and covers surface. Refrigerate until ﬁrm, at least 5 hours and up to overnight. When ready to serve, place metal bowl of an electric mixer in freezer 10 minutes. Warm reserved coconut cream (you can microwave at 50% power in 20 second increments) until just melted but not warm. Stir confectioners’ sugar into coconut cream until dissolved then pour mixture into chilled bowl. Using whisk attachment, whisk in heavy cream on low until blended, then increase speed gradually to high and whisk until medium-stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes. Gently peel plastic ﬁlm off pie and dollop coconut whipped cream on top, creating swoops with back of metal spoon. Top with toasted coconut and serve

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 5

Health

Air Force Senior Airman James Fritz, 911th Airlift Wing public affairs specialist, performs a barbell bench press in the gym at the Pittsburgh International Airport Air Reserve Station, on Jan. 25. Heart health experts recommend doing three sets of 12 repetitions each, increasing the weight in each set and taking 1 minute to rest between sets ( Joshua Seybert).

Proper diet, sleep, exercise, and joy key to heart health By Military Health System Communications Office Ahealthy heart is essential, particularly to service members facing high-stress jobs throughout their careers. Lifestyle choices involving self-discipline and moderation are key to achieving a healthy heart and optimizing overall health, which result in a medically ready force. “Heart disease kills over 17 million people a year,” according to Air Force Lt. Col. (Dr.) Eddie Davenport, chief of cardiology for the Aeromedical Consult Service of the 77th Human Performance Wing located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. “[It’s] often the presenting symptom in sudden cardiac death.” However, in a study of active-duty service members under 35 who suffered SCD, which occurs unexpectedly because of loss of heart function, premature coronary artery disease, or CAD, was the most common cause, noted Davenport. Yet, while common in asymptomatic military personnel, CAD is preventable with proper diet and exercise, he added. Some Exercise Goes a Long Way The American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and Department of Health and Human Services all recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity and two strength-training sessions, said Davenport. “But there is data to support optimal health may be closer to twice this: About 300 minutes of moderate or 150 minutes of vigorous activity per week, which correlates to 30 to 60 minutes a day, five days a week.” Based on his data and data seen in cardiac patients, Davenport recommends shorter-duration, higher-intensity activity. “There is a lot of data supporting the benefit of higher-intensity, shorter-duration exercise even in advanced heart failure,” he said. Higher-intensity, shorter-duration activities such as heavy weightlifting, calisthenics, and plyometrics involve anaerobic exercise that

breaks down glycogen for energy without using oxygen. Examples of these include burpees, jump squats, and sprinting while running, swimming, or cycling. “Service members are expected to perform vigorous aerobic exercise and high-intensity training where being able to generate an optimal cardiac output may reflect on athletic performance,” said Army Lt. Col. (Dr.) John Symons, medical director of the Inpatient Cardiology Service at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, in Bethesda, Maryland. Data from the Air Force’s aircrew showed cardio protection with 20 to 30 minutes of higher-intensity exercise just five days a week. In comparison, noted Davenport, the data showed an increase in cardiac disease for those who exercise over one hour a day. For strength training, Davenport recommended doing sets of push-ups, sit-ups, and pull-ups, which can be done anywhere. Moderate Diet is Key A balanced diet of moderation works best, noted Davenport. Weight management is a part of life, and caloric control with portion control should be a daily habit. The American Heart Association recommends aiming for a diet that does not exceed 5% to 6% of calories from saturated fat. For example, if you need about 2,000 calories a day, no more than 120 of them should come from saturated fat, which is about 13 grams per day. And although not every aspect of achieving a healthy heart is in our control, experts estimate that about 70% of clinical outcomes come from lifestyle choices and about 30% from genetics, Symons noted. “Eating a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco use are the biggest variables service members have in their control,” he added. “Additional variables that the health care system can help with include controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid levels with medi-

cations if needed if lifestyle choices alone are insufficient.” Heart disease in service members Compared to the general population, military service members tend to be in better physical shape, said Symons. “The stress associated with active duty and combat in particular is speculated to possibly put military service members at higher risk over time of developing hypertension, and out of that becoming more at risk of cardiovascular disease, but the linkage is uncertain.” However, working to achieve and maintain a healthy heart is particularly relevant to pilots since certain heart conditions that don’t get noticed on land can become symptomatic in the air due to pressure from high mental and physical demands pilots face when performing high-risk maneuvers, said Davenport. “Aviators in particular are held to a higher standard of fitness and readiness as the complex mission sets they are expected to perform with are felt to require a higher level of fitness and readiness than the average service member,” said Symons. In high-performance flight, for example, pilots must also be able to sustain sudden changes in pressure and altitude at speeds approaching or exceeding the speed of sound and gravitational forces up to nine times the normal pull (9Gs), said Davenport. “Modern military aircraft and now space flight push the limits of human physiology so much that any decrease in normal physiology could be detrimental.” There are certain cardiac conditions such as arrhythmia — irregular heartbeat — or heart failure that do not lead to sudden incapacitation but may still lead to a decrease in performance of aircrew duties, thus decreasing safety of flight, said Davenport. Atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia, occurs when the two upper chambers of your heart experience chaotic electrical

signals, said Symons. “It tends to cause palpitations, which can be distracting, and in rare cases, disabling.” Symons, who is also chief of the Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory at WRNMMC, explained atrial fibrillation tends to originate in the pulmonary veins, which plug into the back of the left atrium of the heart. “Atrial fibrillation ablation [AFIB] involves creating a line of electrical block around where the veins plug into the back of the left atrium to discourage the pulmonary vein triggers from being able to escape into the left atrium and encourage atrial fibrillation.” The procedure helps aviators by “walling off the common triggers in the pulmonary vein sleeves, modifying ganglionic plexi (nerves), which live in fat pads on the outside of the heart, and reducing the available surface area for wavelets of re-entry to organize and persist,” said Symons. In short, it disrupts the faulty electrical signals that cause the arrhythmia in the first place. For pilots and aviators, “these lifestyle changes not only prevent sudden death but optimize our ability to fly, fight, and win,” said Davenport. “Before we can be the strongest Air Force, we must be the healthiest.” Recognizing the signs Though heart disease may present with obvious symptoms, such as chest pain or pressure, it can be more subtle, noted Symons. Shortness of breath with or without exertion, leg swelling, palpitations, lightheadedness, passing out, are also common signs of possible heart disease, Symons added. Service members should pay attention to obvious symptoms such as chest pain and/or pressure and shortness of breath with exertion as well as be cognizant of getting tired easily or a sudden decrease in energy, said Davenport. Some were discovered to have a major blockage in an artery. However, because they took action to take care of themselves, they were able to correct their high blood pressure or high cholesterol levels to continue their careers, he said. “In fact, over 90% are asymptomatic and were allowed to fly again.” “Our three core values in the Air Force are integrity, service before self, and excellence in all we do,” said Davenport. “Just living out our core values is a great way to stay heart healthy.”

Cardiovascular providers counter pandemic-induced sedentary lifestyle By Military Health System Communications Office The fear of encountering COVID-19 at civilian hospitals and emergency rooms is likely keeping patients away even if they are having a cardiac event, according to Air Force Col. (Dr.) Bryan White, a cardiovascular specialist at the Mike O’Callaghan Military Medical Center located aboard Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada “The ERs have been overwhelmed. If you have a cardiac disorder, it can be scary to think of going to where there are COVID-19 patients and long waits in crowded conditions,” White said. As a result, many elderly patients are presenting much later in the course of their disease, with more advanced and possibly irreversible symptoms and disease, White added. Due to the pandemic, many heart patients are also self-isolating. This leads to a more sedentary lifestyle because they are afraid to go to stores, which then leads to more unhealthy diet and exercise habits. They are also becoming depressed and/or anxious, or developing or worsening hypertension, all of which are contributing factors to heart health decline. “The risk factors were there pre-COVID-19, but have increased,” White said. “Even though patients are doing a good job at avoiding COVID-19, the increased stress, anxiety, and isolation are taking their toll.” In contrast, Nellis beneficiaries “are happy to come in” he said, “because elderly patients want the care” and know that they can make a one-stop shop by also getting their prescriptions on base as well as getting diagnostic procedures and lab work done, thus lessening the need to

Michelle Pribble, Naval Medical Center San Diego’s (NMCSD) lead nuclear medicine technologist, administers an IV to a patient before a positron emission tomography (PET) scan in the hospital’s Nuclear Medicine Department in October 2020. A PET scan is used for revealing or evaluating conditions like heart conditions, cancers, and brain disorders ( Luke Cunningham).

drive to multiple stores or centers that could increase their exposure to COVID-19. To mitigate exposure, the 99th Medical Group that operates the Nellis military medical treatment facility has staggered appointments, and follows strict Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 protocols. Nellis patients can come in person or use telehealth. White sees patients face-to-face, while other cardiac specialists see patients virtually. Nellis is also looking to acquire more COVID19 vaccines, especially for the retiree and beneficiary populations, he said. “I agree that patients with cardiac conditions

are avoiding the hospitals and ER due to fear of COVID-19 exposure,” said Navy Lt. Cmdr. (Dr.) Olamide Oladipo, chief of cardiology, Navy Medical Center-San Diego. “I cannot speak to whether the isolation, depression, anxiety and sedentary lifestyles are making more cardiovascular patients sicker” due to lack of data. “I can say that cardiovascular patients at NMCSD are followed regularly using virtual tele-visits, and patients who need visits at the facility for any reason are given in-person appointments,” Oladipo said. To ensure everyone’s safety and reduce potential COVID-19 exposures at NMCSD, patients

and staff members are screened before getting to the clinic on a regular basis with temperature checks and by answering simple screening questions for COVID-19-related symptoms. “We also developed a staggered appointment process to space out in-person encounters and prevent multiple patients at one time in the waiting area,” Oladipo said. Whatever the perception, it is highly likely that COVID-19 is having a negative impact on cardiovascular care across the nation. But what makes care distinctive for Military Health System service members is that military medical treatment facilities are places they can count on.

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021 7 Dogs, Cats, Other Pets

Autos for Sale

HAVACHON MALE PUPPY Available now 1 male havachon puppy, 1st shots, vet checked, health guaranteed. $1000 252-473-5619

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8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, March 4, 2021