www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 1

IN THIS ISSUE

Shipyard spotlight: John Karr Nuclear Job Planning Leader John Karr of Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s Assistant Nuclear Engineering and Planning Manager Division has a wealth of knowledge. PAGE A6

VOL. 27, NO. 16, Norfolk, VA | ﬂagshipnews.com

April 22-April 28, 2021

Serving the children of the military: Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s Child, Youth Program By Hannah Bondoc

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

ber. I absolutely walk away from this week knowing that our Navy is in good hands.” Likewise, Meier commended the highly-qualified Sailors, and turned his gaze to the future that these Sailors help build for the United States. “My biggest take away over the course of the week was that, my goodness, is our Navy in good hands,” said Meier. “You’re all future Chief Petty Officers — that’s evident — but you’re all entrusted with our nation’s most precious resource, which is her sons and daughters.” Meier emphasized his gratitude, reminding all that these Sailors may one day be the very leaders that future generations look up to. “How you set the table for success — how you mold future Sailors in your image and

PORTSMOUTH — Like every month, April has its own array of holidays and observances, but one in particular is held near and dear to the heart of Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) Children and Youth Program (CYP): The Month of the Military Child. The observance honors the sacrifices made by children of military personnel as they support their parents’ efforts to protect the country. NNSY CYP offers services for children of service members throughout the year, including hosting special events during Month of the Military Child. Care for military children has come a long way since the 1950s, when military child care was organized by informal groups of military wives and parent cooperatives. “The first military child care system lacked any official structure and was essentially an hourly babysitting service for spouses who were working outside the home and parents who wanted socialization opportunities for their children,” the NNSY CYP website’s history page reads. Two decades later in 1978, the Department of Defense (DoD) mandated child care as an official Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) activity, but there was no requirement for formal services to be offered. After the Vietnam War, more military children were in need of care as the number of women and dual working couples in the military grew. Finally, the Military Child Care Act of 1989 was passed in Congress, changing military child care for the better in quality, affordability, and accessibility. Changes include established accreditation requirements, an effective and efficient child care subsidy system, raised staff wages, and many more. Today, the Navy CYP provides services to 45,000 children and youth across the globe, with NNSY CYP being one of its many branches has provided military and civilian employee child care for decades. “NNSY CYP provides developmental child care and youth recreational programs for children from four weeks old to 18 years old,” NNSY CYP Oversight Director Renee Grant said. “The programs are designed to operate and meet the

Turn to CNAL, Page 7

Turn to Military Childern, Page 7

Sailors pose for a group photo after the Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Sailor of the Year announcement ceremony at Sewell’s Point Golf Course. (MC3 BRENNAN EASTER)

CNAL announces FY2020 Sea, Shore Sailors of the Year By MC3 Bonnie Lindsay

Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK — Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic (CNAL) recently named their fiscal year 2020 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year. Aircrewmen (Tactical Helicopter) 1st Class Chad Matthews, assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 40, was named Shore Sailor of the Year, and Interior Communications Electrician 1st Class Bryanne Iddings, assigned to the Ford-class aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), was named Sea Sailor of the Year by Rear Adm. John Meier. “It’s just an honor to represent so many hard-working and talented Sailors at the CNAL level,” said Matthews. “Being able to represent them is truly an honor and a very humbling experience for me.”

Matthews and Iddings were chosen as Sailors of the Year after a week-long of events centered on naval history and heritage, building camaraderie, mentorship, and individual boards testing their military knowledge. “This has been the single most amazing experience in my Navy career,” Iddings said. “Spending this last week with eleven of the best of the best, I met new shipmates, made new friends, and learned so much about leadership, teamwork, and family. This was wonderful.” CNAL’s Force Master Chief Huben Phillips congratulated the nominees and reflected on his self-assurance and pride in the Navy’s ever-heightening abilities. “I am inspired by all of you,” said Phillips. “I was thankful that I have so many years in front of you, because I don’t think I could compete with Sailors of your cali-

The dynamic duo: Batman and Rob By MC1 Phillip Pavlovich Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK — When most people think of Batman, what comes to mind is a caped crusader who protects the city of Gotham with his extreme wealth and martial arts skills. But for Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Robert Herbstreith, Batman is a three-yearold black Labrador military working dog (MWD). Assigned to Naval Station Norfolk Security, Military Working Dog Division, Batman and Herbstreith are best friends and partners. They do everything together, from going on jogs, to playing and eating. “My dad was a dog handler in the Navy and after seeing what he did, from a young age I knew exactly what I wanted to do,” Turn to Dynamic duo, Page 7

Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Robert Herbstreith and his partner Batman, both assigned to Naval Station Norfolk Security, pose for a photo. (MCSN PORSHA WALTON)

SOY winner announced

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Information Systems Technician 1st Class Corinna Ramos was selected as the top performer among four recognized 1st class petty officers across submarine shore commands in the Hampton Roads area.

Sailor serves local community

Navy Hospital Corpsman Petty Officer 1st Class James Williams knew without a doubt he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and serve in the U.S. Navy. PAGE A5

Norfolk Naval

Shipyard supports mothers NNSY has been steadily working toward becoming a better place for working mothers. PAGE A2

PAGE A3

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The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

A view of the Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Earle sign located at the main side gate; an aerial view of the NWS Earle ordnance loading pier; and a view of the NWS Earle command building as seen from Memorial Drive. (COURTESY GRAPHIC)

NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic executes ﬁrst in-house Installation Development Plan for NWS Earle By Alexander Berryman

NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK — Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Mid-Atlantic, Asset Management Business Line (AMBL), recently completed updating the Installation Development Plan (IDP) of Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Earle, located in Colts Neck, New Jersey. An IDP, also commonly referred to as a master plan, recommends what construction should occur on a naval installation within the next 20 years. This plan uniquely identifies facilities and other infrastructure that is most likely to affect an existing or future mission negatively. As a result, NWS Earle now possesses a realistic plan that provides step-by-step directions designed to achieve installation goals. In 2017, Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) instructed NAVFAC to begin completing IDPs internally. Historically, contracted architecture and engineering firms produced large documents that overlooked the critical missions at an installation. These documents proved to be of limited value to a Public Works Department (PWD) responsible for planning future infrastructure. By completing the new NWS Earle IDP, NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic AMBL is leading the Navy-wide effort to invest proactively in future facilities and supporting shore infrastructure. “This master plan prioritizes mission, people, and safety,” said NWS Earle Commanding Officer Capt. Edward Callahan. “NWS Earle’s primary purpose is to store and deliver aviation ordnance to the Atlantic Fleet. Completing this

mission requires active duty personnel, civilians, and families to have access to appropriate facilities. Storing ordnance safely involves a complex set of safety measures, but other factors like potential sea-level rise could endanger the installation’s waterfront. An IDP represents the tool suited for coordinating these priorities for the next 20 years.” Per CNIC, 71 naval installations with more than 114,000 facilities valued at nearly $245 billion, span the globe. Limited funding and manpower exists to maintain, as well as construct, new infrastructure on naval installations. Accordingly, each installation needs to strategize and determine what facilities and other infrastructure are most important. Failure to do so at a single installation will most certainly decrease the readiness of the entire Navy. Minimal future readiness issues exist at NWS Earle because the updated IDP supports existing and future missions. The IDP contains a Capital Investment Program, which is a series of recommended projects ordered based upon importance. Asset Management (AM) planners scoped 64 future projects for NWS Earle beginning with the near term (0-5 years) and concluding with the long term (15+ years). Of these projects, 59 of them fall under a reasonable cost threshold of $35 million. These projects as planned would come from numerous funding streams, which enhances the likelihood of the projects receiving support. Master plans traditionally called for changes that made an installation ideal or perfect without consideration of cost or feasibility. NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic focused on practicality at NWS Earle to

ensure the supply of aviation ordnance across the Atlantic remains steady. Preparing an IDP includes involving those who work and live at the installation. Members of the NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic AMBL IDP team traveled to NWS Earle and facilitated multiple workshops with participants who directly influenced the direction and content of the master plan. Elements of the plan based upon participation includes the following vision statement, which establishes how the installation should function in 20 years. “NWS Earle will provide reliable and resilient infrastructure that is critical to the safe storage and transport of ordnance to a unique and efficient pier complex, while also supporting tenant activities and future growth opportunities in a campus setting.” Participants proceeded to define what and where infrastructure should exist in the future through a product known as the Preferred Course of Action. AM planners invited participants to design NWS Earle themselves. Each team could make different kinds and quantities of improvements to the installation. Based on this activity, the group identified adding rail lines, building new ordnance storage magazines, and enhancing the pier complex as essential future development. Each component aligns with the key priorities of leadership; mission, people, and safety. Rail lines deliver ordnance to the installation’s waterfront and involves the staff of both Naval Munitions Command (NMC) and the PWD. Likewise, safely storing ordnance protects all individuals on the installation. Modernizing the pier complex ensures resilience to future severe weather and potential

sea-level rise. Such illustrates an example of how NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic is supporting its installations with today and tomorrow in mind. AMBL continued the work of NWS Earle and uniquely evaluated all infrastructure located on the installation through in-depth research. Traditional research methods yielded irregular results, so planners created new calculations that integrated common principles into the analysis of data. This effort identified facilities still in use beyond their intended lifespan and added importance to those used by key commands like NMC. It also elevated infrastructure that is expensive to replace, which speaks to what is most important to maintain. Infrastructure meeting these three principles represent capability gaps since they are most likely to interfere with an existing or future mission. “NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic, as evident within the NWS Earle IDP, leads the way in Navy master planning,” said Thomas Rosen, AMBL community planner and IDP project manager. “Developing a realistic, executable IDP in partnership with the installation, focused on mission and future requirements like resiliency, represent traits present only in a diligently crafted master plan. Future construction at NWS Earle will now follow a step-by-step program intended to maximize improvements to mission, people, and safety, and fulfills the best interests of the Fleet, Fighter, and Family.” NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic provides facilities engineering, public works and environmental products and services across an area of responsibility that spans from Georgia to Maine and as far west as Indiana. As an integral member of the Commander Navy Region Mid-Atlantic team, NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic provides leadership through the Regional Engineer organization to ensure the region’s facilities and infrastructure are managed efficiently and effectively.

Norfolk Naval Shipyard supports working mothers with new nursing pods By Hannah Bondoc

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) has been steadily working toward becoming a better place for working mothers and all women by hosting educational lectures on breast health and winning the Silver Rating for Nursing Mother-Friendly Workplace. However, brought further gains for NNSY’s nursing mothers with the arrival of a new nursing pod in the Bldg. 298 break room. According to Facilities Support Branch’s (Code 985) Facilities Engineer Caleb Steckmann, the pod is a “prefabricated space that is delivered on a pallet and can be assembled anywhere that has an open area large enough for the pod to be built in. It is a secure, clean, bright, and a welcoming space for mothers.” The idea to install a pod was first presented in an open forum hosted by the Federal Women’s Program (FWP) and Code 985 for pregnant and nursing mothers employed at the shipyard. From there, the facilities engineer put in a request to his management in Sept. 2020, with the pod components picked up this past February.

Steckmann worked with his team—Temporary Form One (TF-1) Program Manager Bobby Truitt, Facilities Support Engineer Mystique Owens, and Facilities Operations Specialist Shane Hurley - to assemble the pod and was grateful for their help. “Although there was some difficulty assembling and moving it, we had plenty of support, so we were able to get the job done,” he said. “I would not have been able to do this without my team.” Not only is the pod the first of its kind in the shipyard, it is also a trial for future nursing stations. “We would like to see how well it is received, how often it is used, if the women like it, and if there are other places that could use one,” Steckmann explained. Steckmann said that this initiative is also a part of a continued effort to make America’s Shipyard friendlier for working mothers. “With the help of the FWP, we hope to continue to renovate existing space, build new ones, and continue to come up with ideas to support the nursing mothers at the shipyard,” he said. The pod has a few more additions to be done, but should be opening soon and will be announced on NNSY social media platforms. Aligned with laws on office lactation spaces

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An interior view of the new MAMAVA nursing pod at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. (SHELBY WEST)

and the other existing nursing rooms in NNSY, the pod will be passcode protected to preserve cleanliness and control the amount of traffic going in and out of the pod at one time. “To keep it private, FWP, the building monitor, and Code 985 will have the code,” FWP Waterfront Ombudsman Michelle Johnson added. The specific points of contact to retrieve the code has yet to be announced. This pod not only marks the beginning of expanded lactation spaces, but another mile-

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

stone in NNSY changing for the better. “From what I understand, a new mother who breastfeeds needs express milk two to three times every eight hours,” Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DE&I) Tarane Parker added. “Having lactation spaces not only alleviates some of the stressors that come with being a working and nursing mom, but also sends the message that we as an organization are inclusive and care about the well-being and needs of mothers and children.”

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 3

Information Systems Technician 1st Class Corinna Ramos, assigned to Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT), was selected as the 2020 Sailor of the Year for all Norfolk area submarine commands. (MC1 ALFRED COFFIELD)

2020 Submarine Norfolk Area Shore SOY winner announced By MC2 Alfred Coffield

Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK — The 2020 Submarine Norfolkarea Sailor of the Year (SOY) was recognized recently by Commander, Submarine Group Two in Norfolk, Virginia. Information Systems Technician (IT) 1st Class Corinna Ramos, assigned to Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) headquarters staff, was selected as the top performer among four recognized 1st class petty officers across submarine shore commands in the Hampton Roads area. All Norfolk area shore submarine commands were represented in the competition. To be considered for the award, each Sailor competing had to demonstrate personal excellence both on and off duty, and display the highest standards and superb performance.

COMSUBLANT headquarters; Commander, Submarine Group Two; Commander, Submarine Squadron 6; and Navy Submarine Torpedo Facility Yorktown each nominated a Sailor for the award. “It is really an honor,” Ramos said. “Being a surface Sailor and being recognized amongst submariners at a submarine command truly is a blessing.” Ramos serves as the chief of the watch for COMSUBLANT’s watch floor, which supports 77 allied Pacific and Atlantic submarines. The watch floor team communicates directly with deployed submarines and relays messaging to Commander, Submarine Forces. Only the most professional and technical savvy Sailors are chosen to lead watch teams. In addition to fulfilling her roles and responsibilities, Ramos enjoys getting to know the different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences of her Sailors.

“I think the best part is leading all these different Sailors in the right direction and seeing what they become later in their career,” Ramos said. Teary eyed, she exuberantly talked about the joy of seeing young Sailors grow up, knowing that she has in some way impacted their lives. “I actually have a Sailor here at COMSUBLANT now that I mentored early in his career,” Ramos said. “Seeing him and how much he’s grown since we first worked together makes me so proud. It’s the best feeling in the world seeing someone you mentored succeed.” With 14 years of service under her belt, Ramos hopes to continue her career and retire from the Navy at the 20 year mark. She is also working toward earning a degree in cybersecurity. “After all these years, I love being an IT,” Ramos said. “There are so many different places you can go in the Navy as an IT, and

there are many different types of jobs we can do. ITs are pretty much at every command, and I was lucky enough to receive orders for COMSUBLANT.” SOY selection is a prestigious honor and recognizes Sailors who embody sustained superior performance, command impact, proven leadership, and the Navy’s core values. Ramos will represent COMSUBLANT at the Commander, Submarine Force Shore SOY competition later this month. She will be competing amongst Sailors from submarine commands in Groton, Connecticut, Commander, Submarine Group 10 in Kings Bay, Georgia, and Commander, Submarine Group 8 in Naples, Italy. 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 the 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.

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4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

The prototype known as the Hammer Activated Measurement System for Testing and Evaluating Rubber, or HAMSTER for short, was jointly produced by NSWCPD and a contractor to provide a more efficient and accurate reading to determine the bonding condition of the hull of the vessel. (SHELBY WEST)

Eye on innovation: Norfolk Naval Shipyard uses innovative “HAMSTER” tool on Virginia-class submarines By Kristi R Britt

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) recently teamed with Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD) to bring an advanced prototype to America’s Shipyard with the intent of testing the bond between a coating and hull of Virginia-Class (VACL) Submarines. The prototype, known as the Hammer Activated Measurement System for Testing and Evaluating Rubber, or HAMSTER for short, was jointly produced by NSWCPD and a contractor to provide a more efficient and accurate reading to determine the bonding condition of the hull of the vessel. “In the past, shipyard workers would utilize a variety of methods to identify the Special Hull Treatment (SHT) on the vessels; however, these methods were all subjective and opened themselves up to errors in their readings due to the user relying on vibrations or hearing an audible response to determine the quality

of the bond,” said NSWCPD Materials Engineer Lisa Weiser, who along with NSWCPD Mechanical Engineer James McDonnell is leading in the prototype’s development and distribution. “The HAMSTER will quickly and objectively identify debonded SHT on Virginia-Class Submarines, using an impact hammer to determine the bonding condition of the hull.” The HAMSTER is a portable, battery-powered hammer that uses a unique algorithm to provide a real-time evaluation of the condition of the bond with each impact of the hammerhead. Once the worker lightly taps the area with the hammer, lights on the hammerhead will provide a “go, no-go” response, lighting up solid blue to say if the impacted area is good to go or solid red if the area in question is not. “The HAMSTER has had validation testing performed on in-service submarines with 100 percent accuracy,” said Weiser. “With this, our shipyards are able to accurately identify the SHT and completely repair or replace what-

ever requires it during maintenance availabilities, ensuring the system is fully operational prior to deployment.” Following its production, when NSWCPD extended an invitation to the four public shipyards to utilize the prototype, NNSY stepped to the plate in the hopes of performing a full hull inspection on vessels in dry dock. “There is no reliable technique or tool available to shipyards for identifying SHT debonds,” said NNSY Technology and Innovation (T&I) Lab Representative Dixie Cox. “Current methods utilized are cumbersome or operator dependent. As of now, VACL SHT inspections are primarily visual and various tools are used to tap test the suspected areas to try and determine the extent of debond. This method is very subjective and can lead to excessive work either removing good material or leaving behind debonded SHT without visual indications of failure. NSWCPD has developed an electronic device that will effectively determine debonding on VACL submarines. NNSY can use pierside during upkeeps on USS New Hampshire

(SSN 778) and USS New Mexico (SSN 779).” The mechanics were able to utilize the HAMSTER, training with the prototype and then putting it to use on a submarine. “For previous jobs we would use a rubber mallet to try and locate spots on the hull that have debonded. We would rely on sound or vibration to locate these areas and when on the project it can be difficult with everything else going on to get the accuracy you want on those readings,” said Woodcrafter Shop (Shop 64) Woodcrafter Robert Penland. “With the HAMSTER, we’ve seen it provide more clarity and accuracy regarding what are the exact spots of debonding firsthand. Once you have a feel for the prototype, it’s easy to use and all-around a great addition to the arsenal.” The NNSY T&I Lab is excited to bring new technologies to the waterfront, providing the tools needed for the shipyard employees to work more efficiently and safely. “We look forward to assisting in getting test data from HAMSTER users to help further the development of the project,” said Cox. “We’ll continue to work to bring technology and innovations to America’s Shipyard that help our employees succeed.” For more information on the HAMSTER, email lisa.weiser@navy.mil or james.m.mcdonnell@navy.mil. For more information regarding innovation at NNSY, contact the NNSY Technology and Innovation (T&I) Lab at 757-396-7180 or email the REAL Ideas program at NNSY_REALIdeas@navy.mil.

(MCSA JORDAN GRIMES)

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President & CEO | The Virginia Symphony Orchestra 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 $1,185,000, and has logged over 1,100 service hours in Virginia communities.

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 5

Cherry Point Sailor serves local community as corpsman, volunteer ﬁreﬁghter By Thomas Cieslak

Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point Public Affairs

CHERRY POINT, N.C. — As a young man growing up in Fresno, California, Navy Hospital Corpsman Petty Officer 1st Class James Williams knew without a doubt he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and serve in the U.S. Navy. However, he had always felt a call to be a firefighter. “Anytime I heard the sounds of a fire truck growing up, I would stop everything and want to see where it was going,” says Williams. “Some of my fondest memories growing up were when I visited the Fire stations around my hometown.” Williams serves aboard Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point as a Hospital Corpsman, overseeing day-to-day operations as patients stationed aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and from commu-

nities surrounding the base receive medical care. In his off-duty time, Williams volunteers with the Harlowe Volunteer Fire Department in Craven County, North Carolina. “My skills as a Hospital Corpsman and as a volunteer firefighter go hand-in-hand,” says Williams. “Responding to real life emergencies in my community helps me be a better medical provider in the Navy at home and abroad.” Williams’ motivation to serve his nation and community as a Corpsman and Volunteer Firefighter began when he first volunteered in 2004 with the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department in Montgomery County, Maryland, where he was honored as the department’s Probationary member of the year. In 2010, while stationed near Fort Detrick, Maryland, he served as a member of Junior Fire Company in Frederick County, Maryland.

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Currently, Williams devotes his time and talents to volunteering with the Harlowe Volunteer Fire Department in Craven County, North Carolina, where he started in 2017. Williams’ credits his father, the late Clayborne H. Williams Sr., as his role model and inspiration to volunteer. It was his father’s love and interaction with others while serving as a community lay drug and life counselor along with his ability to always find time to help and mentor those in need that continues to motivates Williams. “I want junior sailors to understand service does not have to stop when you take off the uniform at the end of the day,” says Williams about mentoring and developing junior members of the Navy. “Many communities need motivated, talented people like themselves to help answer emergency calls in their own neighborhoods.

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class James Williams serves aboard Naval Health Clinic Cherry Point, where he oversees day-to-day operations while providing medical care to patients serving aboard Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and the surrounding communities. (THOMAS CIESLAK)

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

Shipyard spotlight: John Karr By Allison Conti

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — With more than 32 years of experience, Nuclear Job Planning Leader (NJPL) John Karr of Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) Assistant Nuclear Engineering and Planning Manager Division (Code 2301) has a wealth of knowledge. Lucky for his colleagues in Code 2301 and the shipyard at large, Karr is happy to share the wealth.

A native of Roanoke, Virginia, Karr began his career at NNSY in 1988 after graduating from Virginia Tech with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. “They interviewed on campus and invited me up to visit the site. It sounded interesting and I have been here ever since,” said Karr. As a JPL, Karr ensures that NNSY is able to meet its mission and that incoming projects are set up to be successful. The NJPL assists the Nuclear Project Engineering and Planning Manager (NPEPM) with planning the day-to-day execution of a ship availability. “Our main focus is to deliver the required engineering planning products and other deliverables as required by our corporate best practices guidance,” said Karr. “In essence, we are delivering planning products in a timely manner to set the project up for success.” He added that during the execution of a project, he and other NJPLs play an active role in supporting the work. Karr ensures that new work is screened and added to the schedule, if accepted. Karr said he was proud of the work he completed for the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) Docking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA) and its several job summaries and task group instructions (TGIs). Through a lot of hard work, Karr and his team were able to get all of the planning products delivered on-time to support starting the availability. “While I moved on from the Bush project in June 2019, I would like to think my efforts were an important part of its success as the availability comes near the end,” said Karr. Rachel Yarasavich, a fellow NJPL and mentee of Karr’s, said, “John is a shining example of someone who demonstrates NNSY’s values every day. He has been more than willing to help me understand concepts and questions regarding the Naval Nuclear Programs and other topics related to my job duties. Not only is he a patient and great teacher, he is one of the most dependable and dedicated people that I have ever met at America’s Shipyard.” Having spent his entire career at NNSY, Karr is deeply committed to the shipyard’s

Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s Nuclear Job Planning Leader (NJPL) John Karr (SHELBY WEST)

mission and community. Both Yarasavich and Karr’s supervisor, Code 2310.2 Branch Head and Supervisory Nuclear Engineer Chris Frarey remarked on Karr’s dedication to America’s Shipyard. Frarey said, “John is always seeking opportunities to support and improve Norfolk Naval Shipyard. He is a member of several shipyard organizations and recently John has proven to be a strong mentor to new employees within our organization. I know that any assignment assigned to John will be completed on time with first time quality. John truly exemplifies One Mission — One Team!” One Mission — One Team, is a motto that Karr holds close to his heart and the words help motivate him in the work he does

within his daily job and the NNSY community. Karr said, “NNSY will only have success if every person is having success. If you look at how complex the work we do is, it is easy to think that one person does not make a difference, but each individual’s success, when added to everyone else’s successes will lead to shipyard success.” Having years of experience, Karr regularly makes himself available to guide other NJPLs and engineers with less experience just as he said others have mentored him. He humbly shares errors he has previously made and lessons he has learned in the hope that others can learn from him. Karr said, “You’re not always going to be successful — mistakes happen, but it is important

to learn from our hiccups and pass those lessons on to other people.” Karr not only has technical knowledge and lessons to share but broader career advice that can be applied to any NNSY employee. “Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. I was for a lot of my career, but I discovered that if you have determination and resiliency, any new job can be mastered. You might not always completely succeed at first, but you will learn from your mistakes and keep improving,” said Karr. “It is never too late to redefine yourself, to broaden your horizon, to accept more challenges. It will be personally rewarding and it will benefit the whole NNSY team.”

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 7

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Preventing pollution from our use, disposal of household chemicals By Amy E. Hardy

PWD NSA Hampton Roads Public Affairs

NORFOLK — Stormwater pollution results when precipitation such as rain or snowmelt runs over surfaces picking up pollutants like pesticides, fertilizers, construction site sediments, pet waste, litter, etc. These pollutants can significantly degrade water quality and threaten aquatic, wildlife and human health. In addition, stormwater pollution impacts our drinking water supplies and use of waterways for recreational activities such as swimming, fishing or boating. Runoff from our lawns, rooftops, and driveways enter into the storm drain system. This system discharges directly to nearby streams, lakes, and bays without receiving treatment. Because of this, it is important for us to prevent pollutants from being washed into these storm drains from our use and disposal of household chem-

icals. When household chemicals are either accidentally washed into a storm drain or intentionally dumped outside and drain into the stormwater system, it is referred to as an “illicit discharge.” Common examples of the materials that lead to household illicit discharges include: Paint and paint thinner Motor oil and gasoline Antifreeze Fertilizer, herbicides, and pesticides Bleach, solvents and cleaners Swimming pool chemicals and chlorinated water The everyday products that we use can be very harmful if not stored, used, and disposed of properly. These products can be classified as: toxic (pest fumigants, ant traps, and old fire extinguishers), corrosive (drain cleaners, rust removers and over cleaners), oxidizers (chlorinated pool chemicals and various peroxides), and

flammables (gasoline, kerosene, fuel oil, butane, oil-based paints and paint thinners). If you have products that are no longer needed that contain hazardous materials, it is important to properly dispose of them. Never dispose of them outside, allowing them to enter a storm drain because the stormwater runoff is not treated before flowing into our nearby waterways. Many of these materials should also not be placed in the trash because this could lead to groundwater contamination as the materials leak from a landfill. Some tips and facts about household hazardous waste include: As little as one quart of motor oil can contaminate millions of gallons of water. Used motor oil can be re-refined into re-usable lubricating oil. Reprocessing one gallon of used motor oil and burning it as fuel generates enough electricity to power everything in your home for a day.

CNAL from Page 1

the standards that you uphold — makes all the difference in the world,” said Meier. Sailor of the Year is a time-honored tradition introduced in 1972 by Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet. This annual competition is held to recognize superior performance of individ-

Dynamic duo from Page 1

The U.S. Navy’s Children and Youth Program (CYP) serve over 45,000 youths across the globe including at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. (SHELBY WEST)

Military Childern from Page 1

unique needs of the families, military mission and service members.” NNSY CYP is accredited with organizations such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Council on Accreditation (COA). Its locations include the New Gosport Youth Center and two Child Development Centers (CDC) in New Gosport and Scott Center. Traditionally, the program has honored Military Child Month every year with a “Purple Up!” parade, posters, stories, and various activities that often included the children’s parents. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic CYP will

be doing things a little differently this year. “Our programs will have to think outside of the box but will still provide our children with activities while being safe,” Grant said. Despite the obstacles the pandemic brings, Grant and her team are determined to celebrate the communities they serve. “April is not the only month our programs celebrate military children,” she said. “We strive each and every day to ensure our children and military families know they are true heroes. NNSY CYP endeavors to meet that goal by providing quality developmental child care, taking pride in what we do, and doing our best at all times in being careful, prepared and trained.” For more information or to register for NNSY CYP programs, visit militarychildcare.com.

said Herbstreith. “Being selected for K-9 was a big achievement for me.” For the past seven months, the duo has been working together to be more proficient at searching out and detecting illegal contraband throughout Naval Station Norfolk. MWDs and their handlers require strong bonds on and off duty. “He needs to know I need him, so I do things like make sure I’m the one feeding him,” said Herbstreith. “I also spend a lot of time talking to him. I try to let him know that I’m his partner for the time being and reassure him that no one else will give him the type of love and affection that I give him, so he knows that his dad needs him.” Navy K-9 handlers specialize in explosives and drug detection, and patrol missions. Handlers also train MWDs to seek out enemies while on deployment and to be the first line of defense for their units. “We conduct obedience training every day,” said Herbstreith. “We also perform detection training with the help of training aids that are specially designed for Batman to find.” They conduct simulated training scenarios that are based on possible real-life situ-

Don’t rinse paint brushes outside where the rinse water can enter the stormwater system. Clean water-based paint brushes in the sink and oil-based paint brushes by using paint thinner. If possible try to use water based paints! Keep paints and solvents in sealed containers where they cannot become pollutants. Recycle all unused paints at local Hazardous Waste Collection Centers. Avoid over applying fertilizers and pesticides, or applying them immediately before it rains! For all household materials try to purchase and use non-toxic alternative when possible. All materials should be used and disposed of in accordance with manufacturer specifications. The best way to dispose of household chemicals is to take them to a local hazardous waste recycling center or to participate in a local waste collection event. Visit www.AskHRGreen.org to learn about local waste recycling efforts here in Hampton Roads and more you can do to prevent stormwater pollution. Thanks for reading this article and hopefully you can incorporate some of the techniques discussed into your everyday habits to help protect our local waterways!

ual Sailors, who best exemplify the ideals of professional Sailors throughout the fleet. CNAL is responsible for six nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 54 aircraft squadrons, 1,200 aircraft and 48,000 officers, enlisted and civilian personnel based on the East Coast of the United States. It provides combat ready, sustainable naval air forces with the right personnel, properly trained and equipped, with a focus on readiness, operational excellence, interoperability, safety, and efficient resourcing. ations. These scenarios prepare the MWDs to respond when and as needed. “When I first got him, he didn’t really know too much. I pretty much had to train him from the ground up. It was an experience for both of us. We had to discover each other’s quirks and see how he differs from other dogs I’ve had before,” said Herbsreith. “I had to find out what works for him. I saw him go from not knowing how to sit, to doing pretty much everything. It’s been a long journey but it’s been pretty rewarding.” The War Dog Program stood up in 1943 in Front Royal, Virginia, with the requisition of 11,000 dogs. The program supported almost every major subsequent conflict and eventually evolved into training dogs for law enforcement. Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA) is the regional coordinator for all shore-based naval personnel and shore activities in the Mid-Atlantic region, which encompasses 20 states, 14 installations, and 50 Naval Operational Support Centers. As the naval shore installation management headquarters for the Mid-Atlantic region, CNRMA provides coordination of base operating support functions for operating forces throughout the region in support of the Fleet, Fighter and Family.

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

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

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 1

USS America hosts training The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the Navy to reevaluate how it trains and educates its Sailors to fulﬁll complex missions in competitive environments. USS America found an inventive way to do it. Page B6

The crew of USS Oakland (LCS 24) mans the ship during the commissioning ceremony. (MCC JOHN PEARL)

U.S. Navy littoral combat ship USS Oakland joins the ﬂeet From Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One Public Affairs OAKLAND, Calif. — The Navy commissioned Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Oakland (LCS 24) during a ceremony, April 17. Navy leaders, Oakland city officials and a socially distanced audience attended the ceremony for the third ship in naval service to be named in honor of the city of Oakland. The first USS Oakland was a transport cargo ship commis-

sioned in 1918. The second Oakland was a light cruiser that served in World War II, earning nine battle stars. Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas W. Harker delivered the ceremony’s principal address. “We now have a finished warship behind us that is ready to be placed into commission,” said Harker. “This ship is a marvel of engineering, which will extend our capabilities for any mission across the blue water, from shoreline to shoreline.” Guest speakers for the event also included U.S. Naval Academy Super-

intendent Vice Adm. Sean Buck, Program Executive Office Rear Adm. Casey Moton, Austal USA Vice President Larry Ryder and Mayor of Oakland Libby Schaaf. Kate Brandt, Google’s sustainability officer and the ship’s sponsor, delivered the time-honored Navy order to Oakland’s crew to “Man our ship and bring her to life!” Oakland’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Francisco X. Garza, reported the ship ready. “I am incredibly proud of this crew for their dedication to shipmate and ship as we worked toward

the commissioning of USS Oakland, said Garza. “We are honored to carry the name ‘Oakland’ into the fleet.” Oakland will be homeported in San Diego with littoral combat ships USS Independence (LCS 2), USS Coronado (LCS 4), USS Jackson (LCS 6), USS Montgomery (LCS 8), USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS 10), USS Omaha (LCS 12), USS Manchester (LCS 14), USS Tulsa (LCS 16), USS Charleston (LCS 18), USS Cincinnati (LCS 20), and USS Kansas City (LCS 22). The littoral combat ship (LCS) is a fast, agile, mission-focused plat-

Candid comments shared on choosing COVID-19 vaccine By Doug Stutz

Naval Hospital Bremerton Public Affairs

EVERETT, Wash. — These Sailors weren’t stuck about getting stuck. Unscripted candid comments — testimonials — were requested and Navy Medicine Readiness Training Unit (NMRTU) Everett Sailors replied. As did other Sailors from across the Pacific Northwest recently for a Puget Sound Military Health System (PSMHS) video project. The project was a combined effort from Madigan Army Medical Center, Naval Health Clinic Oak Harbor and Navy Medicine Readiness Training Command Bremerton. The premise focused on why service members chose to voluntarily get the COVID19 vaccine. The filming is part of Defense Health Agency outreach communication efforts to promote efficacy, effectiveness and education of the COVID-19 vaccine, and allow service members to hear from their peers why they chose to be administered the available vaccine. For Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kaleesha Ramos, advanced radiographic technologist from Tampa, Florida assigned to NMRTU Everett, it was an emotionally caring — and compassionate - decision. “As a breast feeding mother of three and having two brothers with genetic disorders, I did it for my family, to keep them safe from this virus and help set the example to also keep my command safe,” shared Ramos. Hospitalman Samantha Miller, also from NMRTU Everett, initially balked but volunteered the second time around. “I got it to be able to travel and visit

form designed to operate in nearshore environments, while capable of open-ocean tasking. LCS can support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence. The underlying strength of LCS lies in its innovative design approach, applying modularity for operational flexibility. For more news from Naval Surface Forces, visit www.surfpac. navy.mil or www.dvidshub.net/unit/ COMNAVSURFPAC. For more about Littoral Combat Ship Squadron One, visit www.dvidshub.net/unit/C-LCSSO.

USS Carter Hall arrives at Plymouth, England From USS Carter Hall Public Affairs

all beneficiaries, age 18 and older at Naval Base Kitsap — Bangor Olympic Lanes Bowling Alley. Appointment can be made: https:// informaticsstage.health.mil/Bremerton1COVIDApp/, or by calling the Puget Sound Military Appointment Center at 1-800-404-4506, Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.,

PLYMOUTH, England — The Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), operating as part of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Readiness Group (IWOARG), arrived at Plymouth, England for a maintenance and logistics stop, April 17. Carter Hall made its stop after several weeks at sea after transiting the Atlantic Ocean. The ship received food, parts and supplies during its routine maintenance stop in Plymouth. “USS Carter Hall is always grateful to be received in welcoming ports among our allies,” said Cmdr. LaDonna Simpson, Carter Hall’s commanding officer. “Working port visits, such as this, further solidify our partnerships and commitments going forward. Additionally, the maintenance capability provided keeps Carter Hall in our top readiness condition ensuring we are ready for any mission.” Carter Hall is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression, and defend U.S., allied, and partner inter-

Turn to Vaccine, Page 7

Turn to USS Carter Hall, Page 7

Hospitalman Kurt Rommel Libed, assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness Training Unit Everett, explains why she decided to get the Moderna COVID-19 vaccination during a recent Puget Sound Military Health System (PSMHS) video project. (DOUGLAS STUTZ)

family,” said the Syracuse, New York native. “I also want to make my workplace safer.” NMRTU Everett, along with NMRTU Bangor and Navy Medicine Readiness Training Command (NMRTC) Bremerton Detachment Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, are satellite clinics of NMRTC Bremerton, providing patient-centered medical and dental care in the third largest

fleet concentration in the U.S. As of April 6, 2020, NMRTC Bremerton has provided 28,000 Moderna COVID-19 vaccine doses to critical national security assets, deploying forces and eligible beneficiaries in the greater Puget Sound area, excluding Whidbey Island. With more on the way. COVID 19 vaccinations are also available by appointment only to

The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

Heroes at Home

Q: I am coming from an involuntary unaccompanied tour to an accompanied tour. Is special consideration given to this circumstance for my control date? A. Yes. The control date for members returning PCS from an involuntary unaccompanied tour, or from assignment to ships operating in speciﬁcally designated areas to an accompanied PCS tour will be the date of detachment from the prior accompanied PCS tour.

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Happy reunion of soldier with family

My kids are total brats! By Lisa Smith Molinari From the time I toddled around in droopy diapers, to the day I drove off to college in my Volkswagen Beetle, I lived in one, small Pennsylvania town. The kids who picked their noses next to me in Mrs. Rowley’s kindergarten class were the same ones who walked across the stage with me at our high school graduation. I had one hometown, one high school, one brick house, one yellow bedroom, and one best friend who I gabbed with each night on one rotary phone while draped across one mock brass twin bed. By contrast, as a military child, our oldest went to three high schools. He grew up in ten homes, in four states and two foreign countries. He said goodbye to seven best friends, six piano teachers, and four Boy Scout troops. He played on three varsity football teams, and his academic transcripts are almost as complicated as the US Tax Code. Essentially, my son, and his two younger sisters for that matter, are total brats. No, not that kind of brat. Although our kids have definitely displayed their fair share of unruly behavior, infuriating teen arrogance and near juvenile delinquency; I’m calling my kids “military brats,” which has an entirely different connotation. The colloquial term “military brat” has been

used for many years in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Pakistan and India to refer to the children of active duty service personnel, and similar phrases have been used in other countries around the world. However, because “brat” is commonly known as a pejorative word to describe spoiled or unruly children, there is often confusion as to whether “military brat” has negative undertones. A few years ago, I posted a comment in a military spouse group on Facebook, in which I used the term “military brats.” A young Navy spouse quickly admonished me for using such language. “Our children are NOT brats,” she replied. Was she right to correct me? Does “military brat” denigrate our children? Why else would an otherwise derogatory word be used in this context? Should the antiquated phrase be rebranded to better reflect this distinct American subculture? Although researchers have been unable to pinpoint the exact origin of this term “military brat,” credible sources indicate that it may be a centuries-old acronym for “British Regiment Attached Traveler,” used to describe dependents accompanying British Army members being stationed abroad, or perhaps a contraction for “barracks rats.”

Over the years, the term expanded and evolved to become a universal descriptor for kids who move with their military parents and thereby develop unique personality characteristics and cultural identity. Regardless of the hazy historical origins, the theories, research, and usage of “military brat” in literature, films, documentaries, songs, and on the internet, indicate that it is most certainly a compliment, not an insult. In fact, less than 6% of ex-military children object to the term. I must admit, there were moments during my husband’s 28 years of active duty service when the acronym might as well have stood for our constant worries that our three kids would be Bullied, Ridiculed, Abused and Taunted after each of their multiple moves to new schools. Wracked with guilt, we felt Blameworthy, Remorseful, Apologetic and downright Terrible. We had to remind ourselves that our children were Brave, Resourceful, Amicable and Tolerant. Eventually, they made new Buddies, formed new Routines, found Acceptance, and felt Triumphant. But kids will be kids, even the military ones, and ours milked our parental guilt for all it was worth. They Bellyached, Refuted, Accused and shed Tears. They said their new schools were full of Buffoons, Rednecks, Airheads, and Tramps; and claimed they needed Bonuses, Riches, Allowance and Toys to cope. The stress threatened to cause us Balding, Reflux, Anxiety, and Tension, requiring Botox, Rogaine, Antacids and Tequila, but somehow, we all survived. No matter what the term “military brat” conjures in ones’ mind, I think we can all agree that military children are worthy of recognition. So on April 30th, National Military Brats Day, I’ll been beaming with pride that I’m the mother of three children that are admittedly, completely and unapologetically, military brats.

Back-toSchool Planning During COVID-19 From Military Onescource

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, parents and students may be facing new uncertainties. Conditions across the world differ widely and continue to change rapidly. In addition, school reopening policies vary and often include instruction and scheduling options. With so many unknowns and continued unexpected changes, making decisions as a parent can be difficult. As you navigate a quickly changing world, it is also important to provide your child structure. Learn how to create and maintain routines for your entire family. One resilience skill we have learned from life in the past year is to focus less on what we can’t control and more on what we can. And what can we control right now? We can continue to stay informed, practice proven safety measures and encourage our children to do the same. Evidence shows that safety measures like physical distancing, face coverings and improved hygiene such as frequent hand-washing and disinfecting commonly used surfaces reduce transmission of COVID19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued considerations for operating schools during COVID-19 and continues to provide updates throughout the school year. Department of Defense Education Activity continues to update School Operations in COVID-19 and has published Education Options for School Year 2021-22 to include virtual options for your child. Your installation school liaison office can provide information, answer your education questions and connect you to your local school district. Educational resources As your child wraps up the 2020-21 academic year, it’s not too late to take advantage of online educational resources.

Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) programs and services are designed to help you make the most of your military experience, and they’re all available to you at no cost.

FUNCTIONS AND/OR SERVICES FFSC PROVIDES: ClinicalCounseling(Individual, Couples,a nd Child Counseling) Personal Financial Management Information & Referral Family Employment Assistance Transition Assistance Family Advocacy Program Deployment and Mobilization Support Ombudsman Support Relocation Assistance Parenting Programs Stress and Anger Management Command Support Crisis Support SuicidePrevention SAPR Support

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Help your kids retain a school mindset as they reinforce reading skills, learn stress-management practices, build a paper Mars helicopter or participate in youth programs online. These resources can add variety to your child’s education process: The Morale, Welfare and Recreation Digital Library offers an amazing variety of education and entertainment resources for all ages. Programs include BookFlix, Explora Primary, Mango Languages and many more. The Teachables program offers printable activities for children pre-K through grade 6. Tutor.com provides live, on-demand tutoring, test preparation and homework help in more than 100 subjects, for students in kindergarten through college. Thrive is a free, online parenting-education program from a Department of Defense partnership with the Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State. It offers evidence-based, positive-parenting practices for children from birth to age 18. Check out its downloadable resources for stress reduction, healthy eating and physical activities. Sesame Street for Military Families offers a variety of resources including activities, games, videos and the Breathe, Think, Do wellness app. Helping Your Child Become a Reader provides tips from the U.S. Department of Education for parents of young children. NASA STEM has a wide variety of science, math, engineering and technology ideas for students in kindergarten through college to encourage the next generation of explorers. Boys & Girls Clubs of America My Future currently offers 11 programs youths can

participate in via the MyFuture virtual social platform. These programs support engagement and academic success and include Digital Literacy Essentials, Media Making, Computer Science, Visual Arts and more. Making School Fun at Home offers helpful tips from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for supporting learning at home for children of all ages. Talk with an education consultant COVID-19 continues to create challenges, and Military OneSource is here to help. If you would like to talk to an expert about any of your educational concerns, Military OneSource offers free and confidential one-on-one sessions with professionals knowledgeable about education resources. Consultants are available 24/7 anywhere in the world to help you stay strong while you navigate military life. Call 800-342-9647, call OCONUS or start a live chat. Understanding of COVID-19 continues to change, so check our Coronavirus Updates for Our Military Community page. Want to find the phone number for your installation’s housing office or Military and Family Support Center? Find those and more on MilitaryINSTALLATIONS, an online information directory for military installations worldwide. For updates and information specific to your location, visit your installation’s official website. You can also follow your installation’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram platforms. For Department of Defense updates for the military community: Visit Defense.gov Follow Military OneSource’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram platforms Check Move.mil and Military OneSource moving resources for PCS-related updates.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 3

The amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) pulls into Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for a scheduled port visit. (MC2 SCOTT PITTMAN)

Bringing the school house to the waterfront: USS America hosts critical training with CSCS Yokosuka By Lt. John Stevens

Amphibious Squadron 11 Public Affairs

SASEBO, NAGASAKI, Japan —In the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the Navy to reevaluate how it trains and educates its Sailors to fulfill complex missions in competitive environments. USS America (LHA 6) found an inventive way to do it. For the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious ready group (ARG), the best way to save time, money and resources was to think outside the box: instead of sending Sailors to school in the continental U.S., America brought the school to the Sailors. “Overcoming layered challenges is part and parcel of being a forward-deployed naval force. It’s what we do, and that’s just what we’ve done here,” said Capt. Greg Baker, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 11 Commodore. “We found a way to get maritime warfighters from multiple FDNF ships the specialized training they need to stay lethal, resilient and ready to fight tonight — right here in theatre — and I couldn’t be prouder of the team on USS America who spearheaded the effort.” America coordinated with a regional training center to convene critical schools in March right here on the Sasebo waterfront for 19 Sailors assigned to America, USS New Orleans (LPD 18), USS Green Bay (LPD 20), and the PHIBRON 11 staff. “Being able to bring the trainers to us was a huge readiness win,” said Capt. Ken Ward, America’s commanding officer.

“Our team is an adaptive, capable and flexible force, ready to respond rapidly to any threat throughout the region,” said Ward. “That means we have to train our Sailors in innovative ways to sharpen our edge while overcoming obstacles like time, distance and cost. We’re grateful for the chance we got to train our Sailors right here in Sasebo, on their own gear, on their own ships.” The Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) Detachment Yokosuka, Japan, taught two courses March 16 to April 9, each offering a critical Navy Enlisted Classification, or NEC — Global Command and Control System Maritime (GCCS-M) and Multi-Tactical Data Coordinator (TDC) — using America and New Orleans as floating classrooms. For the operations specialists aboard America and ships in company, GCCS-M (pronounced “Geeks”) and TDC are among the most important NECs they have to maintain. “‘Geeks’ and TDC are imperative for commanders to make timely and accurate warfare decisions,” said Lt. Cmdr. Temi Jones, America’s assistant operations officer. “Both qualifications are the cornerstone of monitoring our adversaries in the world’s most dynamic maritime environment.” The GCCS-M course trains Sailors to compile and maintain a database, creating an operational picture for fleet and task force commanders, said Lt. Ishmel Sam, CSCS Yokosuka’s assistant officer-in-charge. Sam said TDC teaches Sailors how to share operational data with other units in the same area

of responsibility, aiding tactical decisions in real-time. Jones said America spent months negotiating schedules to send Sailors to these critical schools, and that the conventional approach can take Sailors away from the ship for nearly two months, impacting duty sections, watches and work plans. Because the schools are primarily taught in San Diego and Dam Neck, Va., the cost of travel and lodging — which includes a required restriction-of-movement (ROM) period — is also a major factor. “Those courses cost a significant amount of money, especially with ROM requirements due to COVID-19,” said Sam, “so we reached out to get those courses brought to the waterfront detachments, and we came from Yokosuka to Sasebo to teach those courses so we can improve lethality.” According to Sam, a trip to California or Virginia for school means each Sailor would need lodging and per diem for the five-week course and two weeks’ ROM. He estimated these savings alone at $220,000 for the Sailors in this class — not including international airfare. “Ultimately, the cost benefits of localized training assisted the Navy in saving funds that can be steered toward supporting operations,” said Jones. Sam said this is the first time CSCS has offered GCCS-M and TDC in Sasebo, and it’s rarely even offered in Yokosuka. He said training Sailors locally rather than remotely adds essential layers of realism and practical application.

“One of the benefits of doing it here was actually allowing you to use your own system and training on your own system,” Sam said. “One of the great things about the course is not just learning what you see here in Sasebo, but learning about the capabilities of the other units such as the ones in Yokosuka or the ones you’re going to work with in the future.” Among those Yokosuka-based units are AEGIS and Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) cruisers and destroyers. Some Sailors on amphibious platforms have not worked with these ships. “I learned a lot about the America, and other platforms,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Angelica Durham, assigned to New Orleans. “This course helped me with BMD and AEGIS ships,” said Durham, who had only worked with amphibious ships until now. The course was an eye-opener and an opportunity she relished. “I’ve been trying to get this course since pre-COVID. For me, I’m really glad they came here,” said Durham. A key to success was leadership’s involvement and investment in the training, said Sam. “It’s been very, very smooth,” said Sam. “We got here, we were able to start teaching, and the students were very eager to learn. I think the involvement from the entire chain of command, showing interest in where their Sailors are, has been phenomenal. “That’s actually a first that I’ve ever had … so I think this is wonderful,” said Sam. For America, the feeling is mutual. “We reached out to CSCS to collaborate on a plan to maintain combat-ready Sailors while maintaining COVID-19 mitigations,” said Jones. “Having a ready and willing partner is the key to success.” America and the forward-deployed ships of Amphibious Squadron 11 are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

for keeping our fleet strong by fully engaging our most valuable asset, our Sailors. Your commitment to developing and retaining our warfighting team will ensure supremacy in 21st century naval warfare,” said Rear Admiral Peter Stamatopoulos, commander NAVSUP. Award-winning commands must pass the annual career information program review with a score of 90 points or higher while meeting set benchmarks for reenlistment and attrition rates during the fiscal year. “To sustain a Navy positioned for great

power competition, we must continue to leverage talent in fiscal year 2021 and beyond, we will build a Navy that can fight and win, let us get after it,” said Nowell Headquartered in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and employing 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. Learn more at www.navsup.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/navsup and https://twitter.com/navsupsyscom

NAVSUP commands win retention excellence award two years in a row By Samantha Lohr

Naval Supply Systems Command Public Affairs

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — For the second year in a row, five of the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) commands have won the fiscal year 2020 manpower, personnel, training and education retention excellence award. NAVSUP headquarters, NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Jacksonville, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella, NAVSUP FLC Puget Sound and NAVSUP FLC Bahrain have maintained their status of engaging with their Sailors and creating environments where every member of the team is valued. “Our Navy remains committed to retaining the right Sailors, with the requisite skillsets, to man the Fleet,” said Vice Admiral John Nowell Jr., deputy chief of Naval Oper-

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ations for Manpower, Personnel, Training, and Education/Chief of Naval Personnel. The retention excellence award recognizes commands who are executing Brilliant on the Basics, which is the foundation of Navy’s retention efforts. The basics include six key programs: mentorship, command indoctrination, career development boards, recognition, ombudsman, and command sponsorship. These six basics are the critical cornerstones to building a successful career. “I commend the NAVSUP FLC commanding officers and their senior enlisted leaders

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

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Peering through the clouds of Earth’s “Evil Twin” surprises NRL sky watchers By Paul Cage

U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Public Affairs

WASHINGTON — U.S. Naval Research Laboratory scientists were recently left scratching their heads over a familiar sight in the sky. Venus images are nothing new, but a solar probe surprised the researchers by seeing through the planet’s clouds. NRL’s Wide-field Imager for Parker Solar Probe (WISPR) took a stunning image of Earth’s celestial neighbor Venus last year that left researchers searching for answers as to how what they were seeing was possible. Expecting to see just the featureless Venusian clouds, the NRL WISPR team were instead shocked at what they saw. “The puzzling part is, we expected to primarily image the Venusian clouds, but instead WISPR was able to peer through the clouds to image the surface,” Mark Linton, Ph.D., who works in NRL’s Heliophysics Theory and Modeling Section said. “On the one hand, WISPR is very sensitive to visible light. With visible, we expect only to see clouds; on the other hand, WISPR is much less sensitive to infrared light, but the infrared emission from the surface is readily transferred through the clouds.” Venus, sometimes called Earth’s “evil twin” since both planets are about the same size, is beset with a poisonous carbon dioxide atmosphere and a surface temperature of 878 degrees Fahrenheit (470 degrees Celsius), hot enough to melt lead. WISPR is the only imaging instrument on the NASA Parker Solar Probe mission and was designed at NRL. WISPR records visible light images of the solar corona and heliosphere, the vast, bubble-like region of space that surrounds and is created by the sun with a pair of overlapping cameras. The instrument captured the image of the Venus’s night side from a distance of 7,693 miles (12,380 kilometers) during the mission’s third gravity assist of the hot, hellish and volcanic planet July 11, 2020, whose surface shows up as the light and dark features in this image. The large dark features are the mountains of Aphrodite Terra, a highland region, about half the size of Africa, located near the planet’s equator. Linton said, they are working to figure out whether these images are from the infrared emission of the surface or if they are imaging the surface in visible light. “Whether the variances in brightness are due to differences in the visible light emitted by different chemical compositions of the surface,

or if they are due to differences in the infrared light emitted by different surface temperatures, where the dark features represent cooler mountainous features, and the bright features are warmer valleys, we just are not sure,” Linton said. “Either way, this is a fascinating science opportunity for us.” Like Icarus, the Parker Solar Probe launched in August 2018 is on a mission to fly closer to the sun than any earlier spacecraft. But along the way, the probe needs to whiz past Venus a total of seven times, with each pass pulling the spacecraft closer to the sun. And while the probe is tailored to studying the sun, if a spacecraft has to loop past our “evil twin” planet anyway, the team figured it might as well turn the instruments on. “Observations like this are always considered a science bonus for us,” Karl Battams, Ph.D., a computational scientist in NRL’s Heliospheric Physics section said. “They’re not part of our nominal mission, but can often yield some of the most surprising results.” In February 2021, WISPR completed its fourth Venus flyby, a maneuver which uses the planet’s gravity to pull the probe closer to the sun. During its last two orbits around the Sun, its closest approach reached down to 8,400,000 miles above the Sun’s surface. WISPR will soon come even closer to the sun. Its next close approach is scheduled for April 29, at which time it will reach just shy of 6,500,000 miles from the sun’s surface. Linton said, “WISPR breaks new ground with every orbit, in particular after each Venus flyby where it sets a record for closest approach by a spacecraft to the solar surface, allowing us to study previously inaccessible regions close to the origin of the solar wind.” While the probe is whizzing about the inner solar system, the implications of its discoveries will significantly impact naval operations that rely on GPS and over the horizon radar. “These tools can be damaged by the space weather effects resulting from the interaction of the Earth’s magnetosphere with the solar wind and with coronal mass ejections,” Linton said. “Our investigations into the sources of these phenomena are part of a broader effort to develop early warning capabilities to protect Navy and DoD assets against these effects.” WISPR has provided many unexpected bonuses, including views of Venus and various comets, and providing new insights into the dust distribution in the near sun environment. “WISPR certainly isn’t designed for observ-

Parker Solar Probe’s WISPR instrument, short for Wide-ﬁeld Imager for Parker Solar Probe, detected a bright rim around the edge of the planet that may be nightglow — light emitted by oxygen atoms high in the atmosphere that recombine into molecules in the night side. (COURTESY PHOTO)

ing solar system objects such as planets and comets, but we always try to take advantage of any opportunity we have to get novel science”, said Battams. “The recent Venus images are a perfect example of why we do this!” Parker Solar Probe was designed, built, and is now operated by the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and is part of NASA’s Living with a Star program to explore aspects of the Sun-Earth system that directly affect life and society. Living with a Star is managed by the agency’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate in Washington. About the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory NRL is a scientific and engineering command dedicated to research that drives innovative advances for the U.S. Navy and

Marine Corps from the seafloor to space and in the information domain. NRL is located in Washington, D.C. with major field sites in Stennis Space Center, Mississippi; Key West, Florida; Monterey, California, and employs approximately 2,500 civilian scientists, engineers and support personnel. For more information, contact NRL Corporate Communications at (202) 480-3746 or NRLPAO@NRL.Navy.mil. For more information about WISPR, Parker Solar Probe or the Living With a Star program, please visit the respective links listed below: https://wispr.nrl.navy.mil/ https://www.nasa.gov/content/goddard/ parker-solar-probe https://lws.gsfc.nasa.gov/

101-year old physician looks back on Navy medical career By André Sobocinski

U.S. Navy Bureau Of Medicine and Surgery Public Affairs

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — At 101, Dr. Jack Hughes has achieved a longevity that puts him in rare company. Having a well-honed memory that extends back most of this lifetime including operational experiences in World War II is rarer still. The native of Tabor City, N.C., obtained a Navy Medical Corps reserve commission in 1942 while studying medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He remained in reserve status until graduating in 1944. “Ten days after graduating I got orders for Bainbridge, Maryland,” recalls Dr. Hughes. “It was all rather sudden.” At the Naval Training Center Bainbridge, Hughes took care of new sailors and treated the usual assortment of recruit issues such as catarrhal fever, acute pharyngitis, with the occasional case of meningitis and pneumonia. Hughes recalls treating a patient with strep septicemia with the then new miracle drug Penicillin, which had been available in the Navy for less than a year at that point. But just as he was getting into the daily routine of being a Navy physician, Hughes received orders to report to Lido Beach, Long Island, N.Y. While there he and fellow medical officers and corpsmen were organized into a unit code named “Foxy 29” slated for participation in the invasion of Europe. They were assigned amphibious duty aboard Landing Ship Tanks (LSTs). “There were 120 new Navy physicians and over 2,000 corpsmen at Lido Beach,” said Hughes. “They broke us into groups and then started shipping us out on the LSTs after that.” After training at Lido, Hughes took a train to Bayonne, N.J. where he shipped out on LST-138. They sailed up to Halifax, Nova Scotia where they awaited for a convoy before braving the crossing of the Atlantic in April 1944. Hughes described the convoy being organized into “13 rows of five ships,” including 15 LSTs and two aircraft carriers. He still recalls the sea sickness, the waves and weather and a mishap that nearly turned deadly. “Early in the morning a freighter loaded with ammunition got its rudder fouled up and started running through the convoy like a Keystone Cop in a T-Model Ford. It had several close shaves, but no crashes.” After stops in Wales and then Scotland, Hughes arrived in southern England where he

was assigned to LST-497 along with another lieutenant junior grade physician and 20 hospital corpsmen. They took part in training exercises off the Channel town of Southampton. Early in the morning of June 6th, 1944, LST-497 shipped out to participate in the invasion of Normandy. “At 4 o’clock in the morning I went topside and there were ships and airplanes everywhere you looked,” said Hughes. “There were more ships than I ever imagined existed.” His ship was originally planned to drop off its load of Howitzer guns on the beach. The ship directly in front of LST-497 was hit. “We didn’t quite get to the beach,” stated Hughes. “After the ship was hit we backed out and stood offshore and watched the action until it got dark and then we began taking on wounded.” Although LSTs like “497” had originally been conceived to transport tanks, trucks, personnel and ammunition in amphibious operations, medical planners also recognized practical uses for their large cargo holds (tank decks) in clearing sick and injured personnel from beachheads. These ships were first adapted for medical uses in the Pacific Theater in 1943. And as plans for Operation Overlord (Normandy Invasion) were being formulated, the Navy identified the LST as the primary casualty transport for this operation. On June 7th, 1944, LST-497 took on 100 casualties. In addition to the medical company, the ship also was carrying part of an Army hospital unit who assisted in the care of the casualties until they were offloaded. The ship then transported the casualties to British Coast where definitive care was available at facilities like the Navy-led, 1,000-bed Base Hospital No 12 at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Netley. LST-497 was one of 106 LSTs at Normandy specifically designated for casualty evacuation. Of these, 95 of them carried casualties on more than one trip and 54 of them were specially converted with hanger racks and even small operating rooms to serve as a Casualty Treatment Receiving Ships. Although each LST was designated to carry about 200 casualties (both ambulatory and stretcher cases), LST could embark up to 331 casualties on a single trip. And through D plus 11 days, LSTs evacuated nearly 80 percent of all Allied casualties (79.62 percent). LSTs designed for casualty evacuation

Lt.j.g. JACK HUGHES, MC, USNR IN 1944 (COURTESY PHOTO)

were expected to make three “turn-around” trips across the English Channel over a 10-day period. After disembarking casualties at one of the three designated ports in Southern England, the LST holds were typically reloaded with equipment, supplies and personnel and it set sail again for the Normandy coast. One day after returning to Normandy, a sailor with acute appendicitis was brought aboard the ship. “Fortunately we had hemostats of various sizes, plenty of suture, Novocaine and morphine,” remembered Hughes. “But by then the Army doctors and aid men had left with their equipment. We didn’t have any retractors for the appendectomy.” In a typical example of Navy shipboard ingenuity, Hughes and his colleagues went to the galley where they collected silverware and “spatulas of different sizes” and then took them down to the machine shop to make the retractors. The surgery was successful and, as Hughes put it, “The patient made an

uneventful recovery.” After 30 trips across the English Channel—where they continuously transported casualties and brought needed supplies back to the front—Dr. Hughes returned home. He served briefly at the Marine Barracks at Parris Island, S.C., as staff doctor and venereal disease control officer. During his final 22-months in the Navy he was mentored by a physician at the Naval Hospital Parris Island named Lt. Cmdr. Ben Klotz who inspired Hughes to pursue urology. After leaving the service in 1946, Hughes studied three years under legendary urologist Dr. Frederick Foley, inventor and namesake of Foley Catheter. He then went on to practice urology in Durham, N.C. before 50 years before retiring. In looking back on his wartime experiences, Hughes downplays his own role while hearkening the oral historian Studs Turkel. “It was good war and necessary war and everyone did what they had to do,” said Hughes. “It was just part of life back then.”

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

Legalman 1st Class Kevin Billings, assigned to Region Legal Service Office Mid-Atlantic, created the Next Generation Study Planner, a customizable study plan for advancement exams now available on Navy COOL and MyNavy Portal. (LT. CAROLINA GRAY)

Sailor creates advancement exam study guide for shipmates By Cheryl Dengler

Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center Public Affairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. — A Sailor assigned to Region Legal Service Office Mid-Atlantic has created an advancement exam study planner for his fellow shipmates, and it is available for download on MyNavy Portal and Navy COOL. The Next Generation Study Planner (NGSP) is an automated tool that uses exam bibliography data to create an individualized study plan and timeline for Sailors preparing for advancement exams. Legalman 1st Class Kevin Billings began working on the NGSP three years ago when he realized that Sailors would benefit if they had assistance in creating study plans ahead of advancement exam administrations. “You could ask 100 Sailors how to study for an exam and probably get 110 different answers,” said Billings. Billings knew creating an automated tool would be of great help to his fellow shipmates. “Traditionally, a Sailor could find their

rate bibliographies, but it’s a math game after that—how many days until the exam, how many topics, how big are the topics, how many days should each topic get,” said Billings. “This planner automates that math part so they can jump into studying. The sailor does have to obtain the books; this just creates a study plan for them.” Once a Sailor has the planner open, they simply click on the pay grade of the exam they want to take and the program will identify the upcoming exam date and build a blueprint for the study plan. Unique to the NGSP tool is Sailors can customize their own plan. “I included customization features to account for the reality of studying, as many Sailors said they would like to include days off,” said Billings. “This planner customizes itself based on the user’s inputs.” Sailors can enter the dates they do not want to study, whether that be a birthday, anniversary or a specific weekend. Additionally, there are three potential results when a Sailor starts the planner. “The first is for the Sailor that has never

taken the exam and doesn’t know anyone who has taken it. The second is for the Sailor who has never taken it but knows someone who has. Both of these create general plans,” said Billings. “The third option is for the Sailor who has taken the exam and didn’t advance from it. This plan is custom to that user only.” For Sailors who have taken the exam previously, they have the option to input topic size or previous score data from their previous advancement cycle profile sheet to customize the planner to their bibliography and exam history. Users are cautioned that topic size may apply to everyone in their specific rate paygrade, but score data does not. After creating the planner, Billings coordinated with the Navy Advancement Center to make the planner available Navy-wide. The planner is now available for download as an excel spreadsheet, currently in beta form, in the bibliography section of MyNavy Portal and Navy COOL. “This tool requires members to utilize the topics and subtopics along with the bibliographies to create an accurate study plan,” said Chief Personnel Specialist Veronica Murray,

Fleet Services chief at the Navy Advancement Center. “Taking advantage of this planner should help maximize the time spent on each subject by staying organized and improving study efficiency.” To access the NGSP on MyNavy Portal, go to: https://www.mnp.navy.mil/group/ advancement-and-promotion/bibliography To access the NGSP on Navy COOL, go to: https://www.cool.navy.mil/usn/otr/otr_ ngsp.htm Billings hopes this will not only help Sailors with their studying skills and organization, but that it will ultimately improve performance across all rates. “Some Sailors may feel that studying is only for vacancy advancements, but even if you aren’t taking the exam, these books are the core of your rate as well,” said Billings. “This planner is to help get Sailors in the books to improve job performance in addition to help study for and promote through the exam.” As part of the MyNavy HR Force Development team, 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.

Seabee Detachment Fort Leonard Wood upholds military instruction despite COVID-19 By EO1 Jonathan Willbur

CSFE Det. Ft. Leonard Wood Public Affairs

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. — Navy Military Training Instructors (NMTI) at Center for Seabees and Facilities Engineering (CSFE) Detachment Fort Leonard Wood continue to provide professional military instruction to ensure its graduates are ready to join the fleet despite the challenges posed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. With the COVID health crisis, many Sailors recently reporting from boot camp had modified training schedules, resulting in challenges that CSFE Detachment Fort Leonard Wood’s Naval Military Training Instructors (NMTI) and its students have had to overcome. “The restriction of movement has been difficult to handle, as well as having to spend a significant amount of time in quarantine,” said Equipment Operator Constructionman Isaac Brooks, a student in equipment operator “A” school class 21070. “The NMTIs have very been helpful. I am proud to be a Seabee.” As a small Navy detachment on an Army installation, the NMTI’s have to comply with both Army and Navy regulations and have had to modify their usual routine. They have had to become creative in the execution of weekly inspections, and after hours military instruction by utilizing Microsoft Teams in separate rooms and putting more responsibilities on students in leadership roles.

Center for Seabees and Facilities Engineering Detachment Fort Leonard Wood’s Seabee Ball committee coordinated to provide a split catered lunch to the entire student body, and the detachment provided the traditional cake cutting ceremony with the youngest and oldest Seabee. (EO1 JONATHAN WILLBUR)

The NMTI’s put more pressure and motivation on achieving outstanding inspections while offering incentives to reduce students at musters such as increased liberty and, after passing two room inspections, getting an exemption on the third. Some of the mandatory COVID mitigation efforts that have had to be factored into the routine training process include use of face coverings, limited personnel capacity in class rooms, and meeting social distancing requirements. “The standards and expectations of the students have not changed but we have had to become creative in finding ways to continue military instruction that complies with COVID restrictions,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Struyk, CSFE Detachment Fort Leonard Wood’s NMTI Lead Petty Officer.

“One of the biggest challenges is ensuring that we adhere to multiple general orders and instructions that change on a routine basis.” Another hurdle that the NMTI’s have had to face is to keep student body morale high and to maintain a focus on mentorship for our Sailors during these difficult times. When COVID restrictions eased slightly, the NMTI staff seized the opportunity to celebrate the Seabees’ 79th Birthday. Fort Leonard Wood’s Seabee Ball committee coordinated to provide a split catered lunch to the entire student body, and the detachment provided the traditional cake cutting ceremony with the youngest and oldest Seabee. It was not the usual Seabee Ball held during the birthday, but never the less served to celebrate Seabee history during a time of uncertainty.

CSFE Detachment Fort Leonard Wood, located at the U.S. Army’s Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, is an Interservice Review Organization partner hosted by the U.S. Army, instructing equipment operator and engineering aide entry-level accession training for Navy, Air Force, and Army students. The detachment provides Navy-unique courses in construction management, crewmember, and forklift operations, as well as providing instructor and administrative support for Navy students attending the Mobile Utilities Support Equipment School. For more information on CSFE Detachment Fort Leonard Wood, follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CSFEDetachmentFLW or visit www.netc.navy.mil/ CSFEFLW.

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Vaccine from Page 1

The Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) conducts routine welldeck operations. (MCSN SAWYER CONNALLY)

USS Carter Hall from Page 1

ests. The IWOARG consists of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), Carter Hall and the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17). Embarked detachments for the Iwo Jima ARG include Amphibious Squadron Four, Fleet Surgical Team (FST) Six, Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, Tactical Air Control Squadron (TACRON) 21, Naval Beach Group (NBG) Two, Beach Master Unit (BMU) Two, Assault Craft Unit (ACU) Two and Four, and Sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) Two. The 24th MEU mission is to provide the United States with a forward-deployed, amphibious force-in-readiness capable of executing missions across the full spectrum of combat and military operations other than war, and consists

(MC1 PHILLIP PAVLOVICH)

of four basic elements, the Command Element, Ground Combat Element, Air Combat Element and the Logistics Combat Element. The 24th MEU consists of a ground combat element, Battalion Landing Team (BLT) ⅛, a logistics combat element, Combat Logistics Battalion (CLB) 24, and an aviation combat element, Marine Medium Tilt-Rotor Squadron (VMM) 162 Reinforced. The combined IWOARG and 24th MEU have roughly 3,700 Sailors and Marines. They are deployed to the SIXTHFLT AOR in support of regional NATO Allies and partners as well as U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa. For the latest details about USS Carter Hall follow: USS Carter Hall on Facebook.

or on Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. NMRTU Everett — like other military treatment facilities - has been on the giving and receiving end of the vaccination process. “The new accepts came in waves. There was a wave after the first accepts got it and folks saw they were fine. Additionally, clinic leadership provided staff educational question and answer sessions, which included information about COVID-19, mRNA vaccines, and the Moderna clinical trial data. Additionally, staff declinations were revisited at each opportunity for vaccination by Preventive Medicine staff to answer any further questions, which resulted in more accepts. Explaining the importance of being vaccinated was addressed regularly from our quarters, during walk-arounds, and even during one-on-one conversations, all with the idea that it’s okay to say no at this time, but here’s more information on why it’s important,” said Rutledge. Rutledge stressed that there has been no strong-armed tactics used to coerce anyone. “Declinations were respected for their decision and not made to feel pressured. But communication did not stop and each additional mass vaccination held offered another opportunity to communicate the need,” Rutledge said, also noting that clinic leadership and the NMRTC Bremerton’s Preventive Medicine team routinely gauged interest and shared insight to debunk falsehoods and address circulating rumors. Rutledge attests it was a challenge explaining the efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine to some staff members. As an example, they heard about the expected, common side effects — soreness, redness and swelling on the arm receiving the dose, and on occasion fever, chills, headache and tiredness. Compared to the annual required influenza vaccination, that was different. “The mounting clinical trial data and real world data over time have aided in sharing the effectiveness of the vaccine and the urgency to support,” said Rutledge. It has been gratifying for Rutledge to see

clinic staff receive the vaccination to help stop the spread of COVID 19. “A lot of the staff, including those who were reluctant to get the vaccine at first, became happy to have received it to protect not only themselves, but their loved ones and those around them in the community,” exclaimed Rutledge. “Additionally, those staff members who have gotten the vaccine have expressed a willingness with decreased fear to get back out, see extended family and ultimately enjoy some resemblance of normalcy.” Watching the candid comments from clinic Sailors expressed during the PSMHS video filming for Rutledge and others encapsulated the educational awareness and supportive effort from the first vaccination opportunity in December to present day. They were struck by the honest inflection in each staff member’s remarks, from Ramos’ emotional explanation to Miller’s change of heart. It validated the care invested in each other. “Being there for them meant not pressuring or scaring the members but respecting their decision either way. Emphasizing the voluntary nature of this process was important alongside the facts and empowering them to make the decision, not have the decision made for them, which often happens in military life,” stressed Rutledge. Volunteers from other Navy commands such as Carrier Strike Group 3, Submarine Group 9, and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island also shared, as did Air Force and Army personnel at Joint Base Lewis McChord. According to compiled statistics from the Military Health System, it took 70 days for the Department of Defense to administer a million vaccines, half that time - 35 days for the next million, and with more than a quarter of a million doses administered in the last eight days as of April 12, 2021, DoD is on track for administering the next million in 25-30 days. Moreover, 83 percent of the vaccines from 350 DoD sites have been administered, above the national average of 77 percent. It is also estimated that more than 25 percent of the total force are now fully vaccinated. Approximately 2,313,600 total doses have been provided, with 36.8 percent of service members receiving at least one dose.

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

On iberty

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 1

Health Snacks There’s no time quite like family time. And what better way to enjoy those moments with your little ones than cooking, baking snacks together? Page C4

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Virginia Arts Festival presents Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK From Virginia Arts Festival The Hampton Roads region is replete with beautiful outdoor settings—natural areas that invite walking, pausing, and gazing, and cityscapes filled with history. Walks through our beautiful region inspire admiration, imagination, contemplation...but do they also inspire music? Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Ellen Reid believes that they do, and she has created Ellen Reid SOUNDWALK, music specific to diverse environments, available for free via a GPS-enabled app. The experience is guided by the listener: the path you choose dictates the music you hear, and no two visits will be exactly the same. Reid’s past projects have illuminated settings like New York’s Central Park and Los Angeles’ Griffith Park. This spring, thanks to the Virginia Arts Festival, SOUNDWALK experiences have been created for two Coastal

Virginia locations — Pleasure House Point Natural Area in Virginia Beach and a portion of the Elizabeth River Trail in Norfolk. The Virginia Arts Festival project marks the first time that composer Reid has curated two separate walks in the same region. The portion of Norfolk’s Elizabeth River Trail featured will include the historic Hague and Freemason neighborhoods, the picturesque waterfront Pagoda, and a stroll by the Battleship Wisconsin. The Virginia Beach walk through Pleasure House Point Natural Area showcases acres of sandy shore, sunlit water, tidal marsh, and maritime forest. There, SOUNDWALK will complement work at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Brock Environmental Center, a cutting-edge sustainable building that is a community hub for connecting with the environment. Each setting offers a distinct mood and personality, taken together both installations can be experienced as complementary

companion pieces. Reid has created musical settings uniquely designed to illuminate these environments; performed by the world-class musicians of SOUNDWALK Ensemble, the music is tailormade for the setting and can be experienced while following social distancing guidelines. “These are unprecedented times,” said composer Ellen Reid. “We’re all experiencing the anxieties of living in an uncertain world. I hope SOUNDWALK will inspire us and make us feel connected to something larger than ourselves. It is meant to serve as artistic nourishment—a place to recharge, reconnect and re-energize.” “Working with Ellen Reid on this project has been extraordinarily rewarding,” said Virginia Arts Festival Perry Artistic Director Robert W. Cross. “After the challenges of the pandemic, we have sought out new ways for our audiences to experience the performing

arts. This project is an innovative response to that need. Our region offers visitors such diversity and beauty, and the music enhances the experience in intensely personal ways.” SOUNDWALK’s premise is simple: Before you head out, just install the free app and download a SOUNDWALK, hit “start”, and begin walking! For full instructions and App download: www.ellenreidsoundwalk.com/download More information is also available on the Virginia Arts Festival website at vafest.org. About the Virginia Arts Festival Since 1997, the Virginia Arts Festival has transformed the cultural scene in southeastern Virginia, presenting great performers from around the world to local audiences and making this historic, recreation-rich region a cultural destination for visitors from across the United States and around the world. The Festival has presented numerous U.S. and regional premieres, and regularly commissions new works of music, dance, and theater from some of today’s most influential composers, choreographers, and playwrights. The Festival’s arts education programs reach tens of thousands of area schoolchildren each year through student matinees, in-school performances, artists’ residencies, masterclasses and demonstrations.

Hampton History Museum returns to regular hours! From The Hampton History Museum We are open! The Hampton History Museum has returned to full operating hours. Explore over 400 years of our past in the galleries, and be sure to view our special exhibit, “Hampton One: Building, Working, and Racing on the Water.” Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 am-5 pm; Sunday, 1-5 pm. Admission: Adults: $5; Children ages 4-12: $4; Children under 4: Free; Seniors (62+), Active Military, NASA, AAA: $4. We’re located at 120 Old Hampton Lane in Downtown Hampton. There is plenty of free parking in that garage across the street from the museum. For more information call (COUTESY PHOTO) 757-727-1102, or visit www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org.

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

The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

Community Submit YOUR events, news and photos

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

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The Birthday of a Legend: Opening of New Tour Spaces, Battleship Wisconsin’s 77th Anniversary From Naticus NORFOLK, Va.— Since April 16, 1944, the USS Wisconsin has served as a testament to the strength of the United States Navy. To celebrate the battleship’s 77th birthday, Nauticus reopened many of the interior spaces that have been closed due to the pandemic and most notably, the neverbefore-seen areas like the CPO lounge and berthing area on April 16. The opening of new spaces was made possible through the success of Nauticus’ WinterFest on the Wisconsin experience, funds raised through this event were put to good use to refurbish and restore these historic spaces for visitors to enjoy. “We are so thankful to our donors and the community because their continued support

enables us to maintain and restore one of the United States’ treasures, the Battleship Wisconsin,” said Rehn West, Development Director, Nauticus. In addition to the opening of NEW SPACES, Nauticus invited visitors to celebrate the USS Wisconsin’s birthday with special programming on Saturday & Sunday, April 17 -18. Programming included: • Haircuts by donation in the ship’s Barber Shop — thanks to Vintage Barber for this one-of-a-kind experience • WWII re-enactors on the Wisconsin’s historic fantail • Battleship Wisconsin veteran meetand-greets in the historic wardroom • Family-friendly maritime science experiments, crafts, and activities

Newly Re-opened Interior Tour Space Includes: • CPO Lounge, berthing area, and mess (NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN AREAS) • Ship’s Galley (where 540 dozen eggs and nearly 2,500 pounds of meat were prepared every day!) • Library, dental office, post office, laundry & the brig Nauticus Members are FREE. Capacity limited to 30% and will be monitored. In support of a touch-free payment process, online ticket purchases are encouraged. Masks are required for visitors ages 5+. Programs and events are hosted by the Nauticus Foundation. The Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501©3 to support the mission and activities of Nauticus.

Nauticus mission is to benefit the community through education, impactful experiences and by sharing access to maritime resources. For more information, visit https://nauticus.org/

by Jeanne Sakata. An unsung American hero, Gordon Hirabayashi, fought passionately for the Constitution against an unexpected adversary: his own country. During World War II, he refused to report to a relocation camp with thousands of families of Japanese descent, launching a 50-year journey from college to the courtroom and eventually to a Presidential Medal of Freedom. An inspiring true story of conscience amidst conflict, it is a one-man portrait of American character at its best. Performances for both Dear Jack, Dear Louise and Hold These Truths will run in rep from October 17th - November 7th. Producing Artistic Director Tom Quaintance says, “As you can see, we are taking this moment to break down the traditional barriers of theatre collaboration with our fellow theatres across the country as well as our partners in the 757. Our aim is to elevate our fellow artists and community members to ensure that we all not only survive this year but thrive in the future.”

For the rest of 2021, Virginia Stage Company launches the W.P.A. program. We Put Artists To Work is an initiative by Virginia Stage Company to get our artists and gig workers back to work after facing an entire year of unemployment. These events involve former VSC artists, as well as local ones. “We’re thrilled to have the capacity to bring back artists after a drought of live entertainment.” says Quaintance, “Thanks to generous donors and support from the government, we’re able to welcome back performers, artisans, and administrators so we can continue to bring world-class performances to Hampton Roads.” W.P.A. line-up includes Bart’s Old-Fashioned Piano Party at the Zeiders American Dream Theater, a monthly virtual piano concert that will be streamed on both venue’s social and websites; Something Delightful, a virtual performance with the cast from Sense and Sensibility,and much more! Visit www.vastage.org for upcoming events.

Barber Shop Chair (COURTESY PHOTO)

Virginia Stage Company puts artists back to work with Season 42 From The Virginia Stage Company Thanks to the support made possible by the Federal Government and additional funding raised through the community, Virginia Stage Company is putting our artists back to work. Virginia Stage Company presents Season 42: A Season Like No Other. After a successful presentation of the Wells holiday tradition A Christmas Carol, VSC is offering a unique hybrid season of both streaming and live performances, designed with audience safety in mind. Over the course of the spring and summer, the Hampton Roads community can look forward to a host of community offerings over the next several months, from some new and familiar faces that will remind us all what it means to be inspired and delighted by theatrical work. Running now through April 25th, Virginia Stage Company will return with a live staged reading. In partnership with Norfolk State University Theatre Company and Virginia Arts Festival, August Wilson’s How I Learned What I Learned will feature Anthony Mark Stockard (The Wiz, The Parchman Hour, A Christmas Carol) as August Wilson. The one-man show will take place at Virginia Arts Festival’s new outdoor venue, Bank Street Stage, located in downtown Norfolk and following all COVID protocols and social distancing guidelines. Running May 18-May 23, VSC will present Ken Ludwig’s Dear Jack, Dear Louise upon the deck of the USS Wisconsin. Dear Jack, Dear Louise tells the story of a military doctor and a

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Broadway chorus performer’s unlikely romance, entirely via letters, during WWII. Tickets for this performance are not available to the public, but are reserved for Virginia Stage Company Season 42 members. Tickets to the public will be available for the full mainstage production at the Wells this fall. Virginia Stage Company’s Public Works Virginia will present Comedy of Errors to public outdoor playing spaces across Hampton Roads. This zany and unexpected adaptation of Shakespeare’s play, adapted by Ryan Clemens (A Christmas Carol, Meet Mark Twain) and directed by Steve Pacek (The Legend of Georgia McBride) goes beyond the schtick to play with the concept of family and the power of belonging. The tour will be presented in public parks, outdoor venues, and The Wells Theatre weekends during May, 2021. Check out vastage.org/ comedyoferrors for tour schedule updates. In rep with the production of Dear Jack, Dear Louise, VSC will alsopresent Hold These Truths

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 3

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

Food

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Engage your kids with healthy snacks and family movies From Brandpoint There’s no time quite like family time. And what better way to enjoy those moments with your little ones than cooking, baking and making snacks together? According to The New York Times, what you do with your kids in the kitchen really matters. If they’re regular little helpers, those early investments pay off, as it can help them become more health conscious, give them confidence and help them become more familiar with ingredients. Apples make family snack time healthy and fun You’re probably at home more often than usual these days, so why not make the most of it? Studies show families that snack together, stick together. When you

feed them snacks that have all the right nutrients you set them up for success and better eating habits as they grow. Who says healthy snacks can’t be enjoyable? There are all sorts of ways to create and savor flavors with fresh fruit, like apples. Apples provide a great source of fiber and nutrients for any growing child, and there are all kinds of snack recipes you can create with them. Pairing good-for-you snacks with a family movie Family movie nights call for family-friendly snacks. And if you’re looking to skip the popcorn, soda and sweets, why not make a fun-themed healthy alternative that pairs well with the movie? “It’s a good idea,” says Lori Taylor, CEO of The Produce Moms. “Associating healthy snacks with things they enjoy, like movies, TV

shows or other activities, can provide incentive and help our children cultivate healthy habits.” If your kids are excited about the highly anticipated new DreamWorks Animation film, Spirit Untamed, you’re in luck because the growers of JAZZ™ Apples have the perfect snack recipe for you, inspired by the film. Arriving in theaters June 4, Spirit Untamed is an epic adventure about a headstrong girl longing for a place to belong who discovers a kindred spirit when her life intersects with a wild horse. The film stars an incredible voice cast including Isabela Merced (Dora and the Lost City of Gold), Oscar® nominee Jake Gyllenhaal, Oscar® winner Julianne Moore, Marsai Martin (Little) and Mckenna Grace (Captain Marvel). The JAZZ™ Epic Adventure Horseshoes

recipe is super easy and simple to make. All it takes is a few ingredients, a helping hand from your kiddos and some imagination. Here’s what you need to get started: What you need: * 2 JAZZ™ apples * ⅔ cup of hazelnut spread * 6-10 tablespoons of rainbow sprinkles What you need to do: * Cut the JAZZ™ apples horizontally. * Remove the apple core using a round cookie cutter. * Slice an edge off of the JAZZ™ rings to create a horseshoe shape. * Spread hazelnut butter on top of the horseshoe shape. * Top with sprinkles. * Enjoy! It’s as simple as that. Just a few minutes of prep for a day or night full of family fun. JAZZ™ apples are always bursting with a crisp, refreshing, tangy-sweet flavor and their naturally smaller size makes them a perfect pick for snacking. You can find them in your local grocery store today. Don’t miss DreamWorks Animation’s Spirit Untamed in theaters June 4, 2021. Learn more at jazzapplemovie.com.

honey in the recipe is all that’s needed to sweeten the deal, turning your vegetables into dessert - or breakfast! * Smooth it up. Use your blender to make tasty concoctions from any number of veggies or fruits. Add yogurt and sweeten with honey until it tastes so good nobody can resist. Or just use bananas for sweetness that makes any smoothie taste better. Kids thrown off by green smoothies? Give it a funny name (Swamp Shake?) to help it go down more smoothly. Include kids in the process Grow vegetables at home, let kids choose some at the farmer’s market or learn how to prepare the veggies together. Children are more interested in eating things when they’ve had an active part in the process.

* Short on outdoor space? Consider a small indoor herb or veggie garden as a fun family project. * Kids too young to handle knives or heat safely? Let younger children wash veggies or shuck corn. Discover new things together Explore vegetables that come in interesting shapes and colors, like eggplant, Romanesco, colorful bell peppers, watermelon radishes or rainbow carrots. Talk about how they grow - on the ground, under the ground or on a vine? See where you can buy veggies that look just as they do as they grow, like corn in husks or Brussels sprouts on stalks. Need more meal inspiration? Check out NewmansOwn.com for plenty of tasty, better-for-you recipe ideas.

Veggiefull foods for picky eaters From Brandpoint

It seems like every family has at least one - a child who is somewhat selective about what they’re willing to eat. As a parent, you may despair about making sure your children are getting enough healthy vegetables in their daily diet. But don’t give up just yet. It is possible to use vegetables in creative ways that even your most critical eater will find hard to resist. Here are just a few ideas to amp up the veggie factor - while also encouraging healthy eating habits. Make veggies more fun You probably had “ants on a log” when you were a kid - celery stalks filled with peanut butter and dotted with raisin “ants” that kids find irresistible. Sometimes the presentation makes all the difference. These strategies may help kids see their veggies in a new way: * Use a fun name for the food - From “ants on a log” to calling zucchini noodles “zoodles,” kids like things that sound funny or pique their imagination. * Turn veggies into art - Turn a plate full of differently shaped veggies like carrot curls, strips of bell peppers, sliced pitted olives, cherry tomato halves or broccoli “trees” into faces or landscapes - or let your kids create art with them before they munch. Add tasty dips for kids to sample as they work their way around the plate. * Learn about herbivores in the animal world - Talk about what rabbits or guinea pigs eat, or large animals like elephants and huge dinosaurs! Arrange a salad plate fit for a bunny or a triceratops and have at it! Sneak veggies into foods They’ll never guess! There are plenty of ways to sneak a few - or a little more veggies into foods your kids will love.

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* Cauliflower pizza crust. Kids love pizza, and they’ll never know the delicious crust is made from cauliflower. Newman’s Own Cauliflower Crust Thin and Crispy Pizzas, in Cheese or Margherita varieties, will quickly become family favorites. These great-tasting pizzas are made with wholesome ingredients like real cauliflower and 100% whole milk mozzarella, with no added sugar - and the crust is certified gluten-free. * Ground meat favorites. Meatballs, hamburgers and meatloaf using ground meat or poultry are easy foods to sneak in some finely grated carrot, zucchini, spinach or kale for a nutrition boost. * Eat your veggies for dessert. Veggies like carrots and zucchini make yummy breads, muffins or cake. A little sugar, agave or

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 5

Health

Naval Medical Forces Paciﬁc Command Master Chief Sean Howe (left) elbow bumps Navy Capt. (Dr.) Lynelle Boamah, commanding officer for Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command and Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms during a Nov. 2, 2020, visit ( REGINA KOWTIZ).

Navy Pediatrician Rises from Humble Beginnings to Make History By Dave Marks

NHTP PAO Public Affairs

Navy captain and board-certified pediatrician Lynelle Boamah confidently stands with feet firmly planted atop two recent significant months: February’s Black History Month and March’s Women’s History Month. As the commanding officer of Navy Medical Readiness and Training Command Twentynine Palms in California and director of Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, she defied the unwanted advice from friends and neighbors in the poor section of Baltimore where she was born, who told her: “Lynelle, you can never become a doctor.” She is now the first African American female Medical Corps commanding officer of a naval hospital. Hers is the story of tenacity, drive, and the importance of mentors. Her mother, her biggest cheerleader, never discouraged her

ambition. “My mom got me the Playschool doctor’s kit, with the medical bag and stethoscope,” Boamah said. “I would practice on my sister who is 18 months younger than me, listening to her heart when we were little kids.” “From the earliest age (she said she thinks she was 4-years-old) she was impressed by the medical clinic a couple of blocks from where she lived with her sister and single mom in south Baltimore.” “The white sterile coats, their professionalism, the smell of antiseptic. I was excited to go to the doctor,” she said. Boamah attended Forest Park High School in Baltimore where she finished first in her class and delivered the valedictorian speech. “I still have that speech on index cards,” she said. “Now they remind me of my 1MC announcements.” After finishing college at the Notre Dame of Maryland University she took a year off

and worked in a genetics laboratory at Johns Hopkins University where her immediate supervisor and program director were both female physicians. “They were both great mentors,” she said. Both encouraged her to pursue her medical ambition. Also at that time, she met Medical Corps recruiter Navy Lt. Bill McCarthy, “who also turned out to be a great mentor,” she said. Twenty years later, she met McCarthy again after he had become a Medical Corps officer and was assigned training at Naval Medical Center San Diego. “The roles were somewhat reversed,” she said. In 1995, Boamah was interning at Naval Medical Center Bethesda in Maryland and found the atmosphere challenging. She had the opportunity to transfer to Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia, where she was chief resident and deeply involved in department activities. It’s also where she met her pharmacist husband, Charles.

“I found my battle rhythm and became the physician the nurses needed me to be,” she said. Following her residency, Boamah was assigned as a general pediatrician at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms from 1998 to 2001. She then worked as a graduate medical educator at Naval Medical Center San Diego before entering the pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition graduate-studies course at the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center from 2004 to 2007. During fellowship training, she earned a master’s degree in medical education and curriculum development from the University of Cincinnati in 2008, graduating magna cum laude. Upon completion of fellowship, Boamah returned to Naval Medical Center San Diego in 2007, establishing a robust practice of pediatric gastroenterology. She served as associate pediatric residency program director from 2008-2011 and was selected as residency program director from 2011 until 2016. During this time, she deployed as an individual augmentee to Palawan, Philippines, in a joint humanitarian assistance mission. She served as the director for medical services, of the USNS Mercy from 2015-2017, and as the Mercy’s executive officer until 2019. On Aug. 23, 2019, Boamah accepted command of Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, the same military medical treatment facility where she had reported for her first assignment as a Navy lieutenant 21 years earlier.

Young cancer survivor rings bell signifying treatment end By Lori Newman

Brooke Army Medical Center Public Affairs

After a two-and-a-half-year battle with a rare childhood disease, one little girl has a big reason to celebrate. Surrounded by her parents and a small group of medical staff, including Brooke Army Medical Center Commanding General Brig. Gen. Shan Bagby and Command Sgt. Maj. Thurman Reynolds, 7-year-old Sailor Parker recently rang the bell in the BAMC Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Clinic signifying she won her battle against Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. “Sailor we are so proud of you and how well you have done with your treatment,” said Air Force Lt. Col. (Dr.) Della Howell, pediatric hematologist/oncologist assigned to the Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston facility. “We couldn’t have asked for a better patient.” According to the National Cancer Institute, childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, also called ALL or acute lymphocytic leukemia, is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. “This is the most common type of cancer in children and adolescents, but only happens at a rate of 34 per million in those who are under 20 years of age,” explained Howell. “In the past, before the advent of chemotherapy, this disease was almost always lethal. In the 1960s, the survival rate was less than 10 percent. Now the overall survival rate of the disease is about 90 percent.” Sailor’s father, Air Force Tech. Sgt. Aaron Parker, was stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angelo, Texas, when she became critically ill and was transported via life flight to Dell Children’s Hospital in Austin, Texas. “In less than an hour everything changed,” Parker said. “Our entire world changed in so many ways.”

Seven-year-old Sailor Parker writes her name on a wall sticker after she rang the bell in the Brooke Army Medical Center Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Clinic April 1, 2021, signifying she won her battle against Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (LORI NEWMAN).

Sailor’s grandmother, Kim McSparren contacted an old childhood friend, Delores Hagen, who happens to be a critical care nurse in the Pediatric Sedation Unit at BAMC. Coincidentally, Hagen also had leukemia as a child. “Forty years ago, Sailor’s grandmother lived across the street from me. She was my best friend,” Hagen said. “She asked me if I would please go talk to Sailor’s parents.” After completing a couple months of treatments, Sailor was transferred to BAMC and her dad received a compassionate reassignment to nearby Randolph Air Force. Hagen was there to provide support every step of the way. “Nurse Delores Hagen has been pretty incredible this entire time helping out above Sailor’s treatment consisted of intravenous chemother-

apy, oral chemotherapy and intrathecal chemotherapy, injected directly into the spinal fluid through lumbar punctures. “By the time we received her as a patient, she was overall, doing quite well and was already in remission,” Howell said. “The chemotherapy treatment course lasts about two and a half years for girls.” Sailor’s parents were overjoyed that their daughter was finished with her treatment. “There has been a lot of frustrating moments, a lot of painful moments, but now that it’s all wrapped up and coming to an end, it’s like a pinch yourself moment,” Parker said. COVID-19 made things even more difficult because Sailor’s immune system was compromised. “The COVID slump that everyone has been

in; we were one level deeper,” Parker said. “Now we are actually getting to feel what normal COVID life is with everybody else,” he laughed. “We don’t know what to do because all these doors and possibilities have opened back up.” Megan Parker, Sailor’s mother, agrees. “It’s been a journey. It’s kind of surreal that it’s basically come to an end.” Sailor said she is looking forward to being able to go to grandma’s house now that her treatment is finished. There may even be a trip to the beach and Jiu-Jitsu classes in her future. “Sailor has done extremely well with her treatments and we hope that she is cured of her disease, but she will be watched very closely to make sure that there are no signs of the leukemia returning,” Howell said.

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

Landscaping/Lawn Estate Sales Maintenance

Estate Sales Estate Sales ESTATE SALE ALGONQUIN PARK Contents of Large, Waterfront Home of Retired Navy Capt. Ordered Sold, House Is Sold 7436 Pinecroft Lane, Norfolk, Va Thurs.-Sat., April 22, 23 & 24th 10 AM-3 PM Antique furniture of all kinds, 5 China closets, crystal, China dolls, cut glass, clocks, lots of unusual old items, Orientals, etc. etc. (Large garage w/big workshop, power tools of all kinds. handtools, old tools, riding lawn mower, compressor, lot of smalls.) Follow signs to park. House is alarmed. Pics on Estatesales.net, Sale by Kenny Keeter.

Dogs, Cats, Other Pets

Misc. Merchandise For Sale #01A BLACK SIFTED TOPSOIL 6 yds $265, Mulch $28/yd; Compost $28/yd. Rock, playground mulch, firewood, lawn care. D Miller’s 536-3052

WERNER EXTENSION LADDERS 32’ $275, 40’ $325, 30’ scaffold $325. 757-535-2007

AntiquesSales & Collectibles Estate

BUYING COINS WEST NECK 2820 Einstein Dr. Va Bch Sat-Sun Apr 24 & 25, 10-4. Grange furn, liv, din, leather, antiq, desks, lamps, glass, porc, china, chandeliers, grandfather clock, orig. art, collectibles, jewelry, sterling. Pix on Blvd Treasures FB

Shop smart. Save big! Sunday (and every day).

BEAGLE AKC registered, 13 inches, hard running male rabbit dog. 20 mos. Started at 6 mos. $400. 757-635-3335 BORDER COLLIE 6 Male For Sale 8wks old 2 Black & White, 3 Tri Color, 1 Red & White $750 Text 10am-10pm, Call After 7pm. 757-319-2860 BOXER PUPPIES AKC, 6 males, 1 female. Fawns & Brindle, Ready May 15th . Parents on site. $750. 252-702-4767 PUGGLES

BOOKKEEPER / COMPTROLLER Established City/State/Federal General Construction Company looking for full service Bookkeeper/Comptroller. Construction experience preferred. QuickBooks proficient. Great Opportunity - Please send resume and salary requirements to: sarah@csi-db.com

General Help Wanted

WE BUY MUSIC RECORDS $$ Jazz, R & B, Rock, albums & 45’s from the ’60’s, ‘70’s & ‘80s. Call Howard 757-717-8945 We’ll come to you 24/7!

Great baby sitters. This cross has gotten hard to find, shots and training started. $1250. 917-335-7537.

Early home delivery.

SHIH TZU 10 week old Female Shih Tzu. CKC Registered, shots up to date. $1500 cash only, (757) 737-0773

Early home delivery.

Coin Collections STAMP COLLECTIONS

Wanted To Buy

757-446-9000 or PilotOnline.com

Subscribe to The Virginian-Pilot today. Call 757-446-9000 or go to PilotOnline.com

DELIVERY DRIVER Full time, Monday through Friday 8:30 am-5pm. Clean driving record required, local route, company truck provided, Fax resume to 757-4558363 or email karen@labonedental. com.

2000 HARLEY DAVIDSON FLSTC 22500 miles, Heritage Soft Tail, Custom Paint Seat Carburetor & Fish Tail, Garage Kept, $5500. Call: 757-6453564

Room For Rent

EVO engine, Dyna Wide Glide as seen on cover of Easy Rider Magazine. Pristine condition, garage kept, never been in the rain. This is the most beautiful Harley Davidson ever built and still is. Ultra low mileage - yes it is really 10,378. Full Harley Davidson maintenance records available. I am the original owner. Has HD tachometer, mustang seat, back rest, luggage rack, chrome drag pipes, sounds awesome, street legal. $7,000 OBO. Preferred method of contact telephone or text to 757-409-1447.

90 YEAR ANNIVERSARY EDITION HARLEY DAVIDSON

Accounting & Finance Estate Sales

HIGHWAY TRAFFIC CONTROL Richmond Traffic Control, Inc. is looking for field workers to flag, install & remove traffic control devices along Virginia’s roadways. Must have: Valid Driver’s License & clean MVR, Drug Free. Apply in person at 7505 Sewells Point Rd. Norfolk, VA 23513 or send resume to jobs@richmondtcinc.com. We will train you! Give us a call to discuss! (757)588-4283

757-474-1303

Motorcycles and ATVs

757-446-9000 or PilotOnline.com

KEMPSVILLE Virginia Bch. Lg furnished rm, all inclusive. $165/wk. 757-652-2151 VIRGINIA BEACH Room in Sandbridge. $750/mo. Refs & No Smok’g. 757-227-8046

MOTORCYCLE

2015 BMW R1200RT TOUR/SPORT SHOWROOM NEW

Travel/Camping Trailers CONSIGNMENTS WANTED! Let us clean, sell, & finance your RV. Snyders RV 499-8000.

Fully loaded ! Heated Seat/Handgrips, Cruise Control, Sat.Radio, Nav. System. Less than 100 original miles. Clean Title. Was $30,000 new. Asking $24,000 FIRM. Serious Inquiries ONLY. CALL (757) 647-1187. Early home delivery. 757-446-9000 or PilotOnline.com

757.622.1455 | placeanad.pilotonline.com CONCRETE, BRICK & TREE REMOVAL Landscaping, Top Soil, Press Wash’g, Yard Clean Up & Home Repairs. 757-714-4848

S & H ENTERPRISE 20 YRS. Concrete Exp. All types of concrete work driveways, stamped & exposed. We accept credit cards. 757-652-4050. www.shabazznva.com

Hauling Concrete/Asphalt Estate Sales

CONCRETE SPECIALIST Aych & Aych Inc. BBB. FREE estimates. Call Sylvester: 757-371-1911

(A) FAMILY TRASH MAN-HOUSEHOLD, Demo inside & out, construction sites, dumpster drop off, backhoe work. We haul it all! 20 yrs. exp., lic & ins. 485-1414

Subscribe to The Virginian-Pilot today. Call 757-446-9000 or go to PilotOnline.com

ATTICS & GARAGES CLEANED Contents hauled away. Also tree limbs & shrubs. Call: 934-2258 B & J MOVING Reasonable Rates, Licensed & Insured. bandjmoving.com 757-576-1290

Home Improvements

BRICK & STONE REPAIRS Steps, Walls, Foundations, etc. Virginia Beach Native. Masonry Contract. 40+ yrs Known As Stone Smith USA. Semi-Retired - A Legend In His Own Mind! Earl Smith 757-2700578. You Won’t Find A Better Man!

ADDITIONS, SUNROOMS, ROOFS, Decks, more. Member BBB. 757-986-3777. www.builderscorporation.com

FRANK’S SIDING & REPAIRS Repairing Siding & Trim. Lic/Ins. Senior & Military Discount! 757-227-8964

ALL HOME IMPROVEMENTS Custom Home Repairs & Renovations. Patrick Ellis Ent. Inc. Lic. & Ins. BBB A+ 757-635-6609

PEST/TERMITE CONTROL Universal Pest & Termite. FREE INSPECTIONS. 757-502-0200. (Mention This Ad and Get $25 Off)

YOUR PERFECT

HIRE

BEST PRICE EXTERIORS 757-639-4692 Siding, Windows, Trim, Roofing. FREE ESTIMATES! Lic. & Ins’d. Lowest Prices & Top Quality Work. No Repairs. BBB A+ Rating

IS WAITING

Lawn and Tree Service AMERICANTREESERVICE.CO ★Catering to all your tree & yard needs.★ ★757-587-9568. 30 years experience★

YARD CLEAN UP - GRASS CUTTING, WOOD FENCE REPAIR & BUSHES Weed Eating, Blowing, Reasonable prices. Call 757-477-2158

Roofing

GODWIN TREE SERVICE 25yrs. Trimming, Topping, total removal. Free est. Winter Pandemic Discount; Lic’d & Ins’d 757-2371285 or 757-816-3759 BBB Member

A ROOFING SALE 30 Yr. Architect Shingles $1.99 sq ft. Labor & Material included, repair, siding. Class A Lic’d & Ins’d. (757) 880-5215.

LEAF RAKING AND CLEANUP Yard Work, Weed Control, Mulching, Trimming, Planting, Transplanting of Shrubbery and Trees. 25 yrs exp. Call 757-918-4152

CALVIN’S ROOFING REPAIR LLC Specializes in roofing repair, also guttering, Free estimates, roofing of all types, reasonable prices, Shingles, metal, slate, rubber. Over 30 yrs -business, BBB 757-377-2933

WHITE’S MOWER REPAIR-VA BEACH Pressure Washers & RotoTillers Residential Only. 757-639-6735

ROOF REPAIR Shingles, tar, rubber, slate, metal, asbestos removal. 757-718-1072

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jobs.pilotonline.com

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021 7 Autos for Sale

AUDI 2010 S4

Great condition. Well maintained with all service documentation. Black Exterior / Black Interior. 115K miles.$12,500

CHRYSLER 2005 300

Limited, low mileage, 56,500 miles, White, 6 cylinder, standard, fully loaded, chrome wheels, fair condition, $6900, 201-803-3482

CHRYSLER 2010 SEBRING

Touring, convertible, 71,500 miles, V6, excellent condition, $5,000, 757363-0716

HONDA 2001 CIVIC

2 Door, 199,000 miles, transmission slips - otherwise good mechanical shape, AC, cruise & power windows! $900 OBO. Call (757) 335-2264

LINCOLN 2002 NAVIGATOR

20in tires & rims, 128k miles, runs. $4,000 obo. 222 Inspection James 757-560-3382 or 757-543-9039

MERCEDES-BENZ 2010 S-CLASS

S63. 1 local owner, serviced by local Benz dealer, 24K orig. mis., gar kept, service history, AMG pkg., showroom new, $35,900. 757-675-0288 Va Dlr

VOLKSWAGEN 1973 SUPER BEETLE

Classic, Antique Cars

DODGE 1955 ROYAL

Coupe. Hemi V-8, air, disc brakes, show winner, runs & looks great, $33,500. 757-675-0288. Va. Dlr.

We will purchase your collectible, classic, late model autos, we will come to you. Call 757-675-0288.

Boats & Watercraft BOAT FOR SALE 2020 tracker pro 170 with trailer 9.9 ELPT motor spare tire minkota edge 45 foot cont low range hook 4x new condition 11000 call 7574792089

WELLCRAFT 33C MECHANICS SPECIAL

Trucks and SUVs

FORD 2019 F150

King Ranch, Crew Cab, 8000 mis., 1 owner, 4WD, tow pkg., full sunroof, factory warranty, showroom new. $54,900. 757-675-0288. Va. Dlr.

TOYOTA 2011 CAMRY

XLE Charcoal Grey Ext./Light Grey Cloth Int. 4 Cyl W/ 54,900 Mi. All Power Seats, Windows, Sunroof. Garage Kept. One Owner - Very Clean. New Inspection. Reduced: $11,900 Call: 757-966-2417

Cummins diesels, runs, tower, chair, serious boat project. $19,000 OBO. 757-435-9680

Good news.

TOYOTA 2017 HIGHLANDER

4 X 4 LE+ 25k miles, Well Equipped, 3rd Row Seat, Excellent Cond, Toyota Warranty, Tow Package, $27,900, No Processing Fee, Call: 443-235-0304

Wanted Automotive

Early home delivery. 757-446-9000 PilotOnline.com

ABSOLUTELY ABLY ACQUIRING AUTOS All Makes & Models, Best Price Paid!! FREE TOWING. 757-749-8035 AUTOS ACCEPTED-ANY YEAR Make or Model. TOP DOLLAR, FAST, Free Towing. 757-737-2465, 701-3361

Boats & Watercraft MISSING AND DEFINITELY WANTED. ORANGE 1973 VW SUPER BEETLE NAMED “GERTIE” AFTER MY GRANDMOTHER. SHE WAS MY FIRST CAR VIN 1332325451 IF YOU HAVE HER OR FIND HER CALL 412-0506. SHE HAD A CB ANTENNA IN MIDDLE OF ROOFTOP WHEN SOLD HER IN EARLY 90’S. I WOULD LIKE TO MAKE OFFER TO BUY FIRST CAR BACK AND BRING HER HOME. I MISS HER AND I KNOW SHE MISSES HOME.

VOLVO 1994 740

Gold. $1,250 Call: 757-615-5612

Subscribe to The Virginian-Pilot today. Call 757-446-9000 or go to PilotOnline.com

Jump start your day.

28’ WELLCRAFT, 264 COASTAL

Cuddy cabin, twin 200 Yamaha, radar, ff/gps, vhf, stereo, great fast & stable fishing boat, 1998, $14,320 OBO Call: Jeff 757-715-3442

Don’t pay full price!

With The Virginian-Pilot’s coupons and sales inserts, shop smart and save big every week!

Early home delivery 757-446-9000 PilotOnline.com

ALUMINUM BASS BOAT PROJECT HULL 17’ 4” Tracker, 90% stripped. $750. Free trailer. 757-399-0186

Fun & Games

Subscribe to The Virginian-Pilot today. Call 757-446-9000 or go to PilotOnline.com

Early home delivery. 757-446-9000 or PilotOnline.com

Sudoku

CryptoQuip

Last week’s CryptoQuip answer

Because the mattress on her guest bed is so ﬁrm, it creates lots of hard feelings

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Religious Serivices For your installation’s religious service times visit www.ﬂagshipnews.com⁄ base_information⁄ religious_services

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 22, 2021

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Published on Apr 22, 2021

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Published on Apr 22, 2021

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