Flagship 06.03.2021

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

IN THIS ISSUE

Asian American Pacific Islander Month

Naval Station Norfolk (NAVSTA) Norfolk celebrated the Asian American and Pacific Islanders during the month of May. PAGE A2

VOL. 27, NO. 22, Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com

June 3-June 9, 2021

Chosen to help: NRMA EEO

By MC1 Phillip Pavlovich

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

proud sense of duty was instilled in me at a very young age from my father who served in the United States Army. He taught me the significance of discipline, responsibility, and integrity. It’s important to remember those qualities on Memorial Day and how they apply to our fallen brothers and sisters.

They had the discipline to understand their motives, to willingly sacrifice their lives to protect their families, their community, our country. They had the sense of responsibility to shoulder their burden with purpose and pride. They had the integrity to do what is right and honor their commitments to their dying breath.”

Capt. Wolfson continued, “I often talk at our shipyard about how critical our people are. That’s because it’s the people who make change. It’s the people who drive results.

NORFOLK — Navy Region Mid-Atlantic’s (NRMA) Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Office has five EEO specialists. While many things contribute to how they got into this career field, Rene Goree said the position chose her.

Goree has been a NRMA EEO specialist since 2008, and currently serves as the EEO case manager where she oversees the EEO complaint process for accuracy and timeliness for all of NRMA. “I received my bachelor’s in social work from Norfolk State University because I wanted to work with veterans and their families,” said Goree.

After moving to Jacksonville, Florida, she found out that her mentor Lou Gunn contacted the deputy of EEO in Jacksonville and applied for a position on her behalf. Shortly after, Goree received a phone call and was hired, beginning her EEO career.

She was selected through the Wounded Warrior Program and was told the EEO office wanted a Social Worker’s point of view.

“Once I started working in the EEO field, there was no turning back,” said Goree. “I really enjoy what I am learning in reference to individual rights.”

Goree served active duty in both the Air Force and Army. While serving on active duty, she said her children experienced anxiety with each move they had due to her military service. She said that her daughter suffered from separation anxiety. While at therapy with her child, Goree said noticed there were a lot of military family members experiencing mental health issues due to having a family member on active duty.

“I decided to leave active duty because of the affect and the toll it took on my family. I received an honorable discharge due to hardship,” she said. “Although I was discharged from the military, I still felt a sense of duty or responsibility to the military and military families. So, by obtaining my degree in social work, I felt this would be my way of paying it forward.”

Goree said that active listening is a skillset needed for being both a social worker and EEO specialist.

“First and foremost in my position, working toward resolution is the key, and

Turn to Memorial Day, Page 7

Turn to NRMA EEO, Page 7

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Commander Capt. Dianna Wolfson speaks during the City of Portsmouth’s 137th Annual Memorial Day Parade, May 31.

(TERRI DAVIS)

Norfolk Naval Shipyard joins City of Portsmouth for its annual Memorial Day event

By Kristi R Britt

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) collaborated with the City of Portsmouth for its Memorial Day event honoring the fallen, May 31.

As one of the oldest Memorial Day events in the country, this year’s was meant to be the City of Portsmouth’s 137th Annual Memorial Day Parade; however, with COVID-19 precautions still being observed, the city chose to once again downsize the event to ensure the safety of those in attendance.

The smaller-scale event consisted of a procession featuring the City of Portsmouth’s Honorable Mayor Shannon E. Glover, the Portsmouth Color Guard, and police and firefighter responders. The procession made its way to the High Street Landing Flagpole Stage and laid a wreath

for the fallen. NNSY Shipyard Commander Capt. Dianna Wolfson joined Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Commanding Officer Capt. Lisa Mulligan and Commander Fifth Coast Guard District Rear Adm. Laura M. Dickey as speakers at the event, marking the first time in this momentous event’s history that the special guests are all women in the armed forces.

“Memorial Day is so significant to our Navy and our Nation,” said Capt. Wolfson.

“I often talk to our team members at Norfolk Naval Shipyard about the importance of putting ‘shipyard ahead of self ’ — meaning to prioritize the critical nature of our work ahead of our own interests, and to know we truly serve a cause so much greater than ourselves as individuals. Those devoted members who have lost their lives in defense of our Nation absolutely know the full gravity of putting service ahead of selves. Such a

Kearsarge dedicates airfield to sponsor, civic leader Alma Powell

By MC3 Jacob Vermeulen USS Kearsarge Public Affairs

NORFOLK — The crew of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) dedicated their airfield in the name of their ship sponsor, Alma Powell, May 28.

Kearsarge’s commanding officer, Capt. Neil Koprowski, was the keynote speaker of the event. He expressed his pride in his command’s connection to Powell who he said helped change America for the better.

“This is truly a joyous occasion and a tremendous opportunity to recognize the positive impact a single person can make,” said Koprowski.

A military spouse for 33 years, Powell is an ambassador and supporter of military families.

She raised three children and supported her husband, retired U.S. Army Gen. Colin Powell, throughout his rise to become the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Throughout her life of civic leadership Powell has helped young people in need of educational resources for more than four decades. While serving as Chair of the Board of Directors for Turn to Alma Powell, Page 7

Capt. Neil Koprowski, commanding officer of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), delivers remarks during an airfield dedication ceremony in honor of Alma J. Powell, May 28. (MCSN GWYNETH VANDEVENDER)

Flag placement ceremony

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The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Veteran Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG) collaborated with Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads, Portsmouth annex, in their annual flag placement ceremony May 27 in honor of Memorial Day. PAGE A4

NNSY’s Second Class Petty Officer Association Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s Second Class Petty Officers Association recently took an afternoon to clean up the shipyard’s historic Trophy Park. PAGE A5

USA Hockey With the U.S. Men’s National Hockey Team in Latvia for the 2021 Ice Hockey World Championship, they are accompanied by Lt. Cmdr.

Douglas Weiss as the team physician for the men’s USA Hockey team. PAGE 3

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

Jamie Hanson, a paralegal in Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division’s Office of Counsel, answers questions for a government civilian employee over the phone. (STACIA COURTNEY)

Out of the limelight: Office of Counsel serves NSWC Dahlgren Division behind the scenes From Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Public Affairs DAHLGREN — With the start of summer just around the corner, fruits and vegetables are appearing en masse — at the farmer’s market, in your garden, at the grocery store. It may not be your first thought, but the way Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) operates can look just like a piece of fruit.

Think of an orange: take off the peel and you will see different segments, some seeds and pith — the stringy mess between the peel and fruit. Each of the technical departments at NSWC Dahlgren is like the segments, with the core technologies as the seeds. The pith,

though, represents the personnel and offices often obscured. The Office of Counsel is one of those offices, playing a key role in NSWCDD operations.

“We touch a lot of areas, providing legal advice and counsel to command leadership and employees,” NSWCDD Office of Counsel Head Matt Hawkins explained. “We advise on federal acquisition law; civilian personnel management and labor relations; intellectual property, including helping inventors protect their innovation through patents; as well as ethics or standards of conduct.”

Like the pith of that orange, the Office of Counsel doesn’t fit into one specific department, instead maintaining a direct line of communi-

cation with the Command office.

“Being a direct report to the Commanding Officer allows the Office of Counsel to maintain independence in order to provide objective legal advice, and it ensures our impartiality of advice,” NSWCDD Assistant Counsel Attorney Candice ‘Candi’ Thomas said. “Having that direct line is important as it directly informs us of leadership’s focus and priorities, allowing us to offer not just legally permissible solutions, but also the best solutions tailored to NSWCDD’s needs.”

The Office of Counsel is small, but mighty, with just ten attorneys and support staff rounding out the team. Hawkins took the job as Counsel for the Command in 2019, moving from NSWC Indian Head Division. He describes the

relationship between his office and the technical departments as a partnership.

“It is important for our office to know the organization and what technical departments are doing,” said Hawkins. “For example, intellectual property attorneys in the office sit in on technical briefs and can advise on potential patent areas.”

Likewise, acquisition attorneys may sit in to review departmental contract portfolios and advise on the legality of documents and decisions.

“We want to be embedded into the technical execution of work as the departments work towards their mission accomplishments and strategic thrusts,” said Hawkins. “We are here to provide legal advice and counsel as issues arise — and not just in a reactive sense. We encourage a proactive philosophy.”

That proactive philosophy is a catalyst for Hawkins’ personal vision for the Office of Counsel.

“In the next year as NSWCDD’s onsite presence starts ramping up, I look forward to getting back in personal contact with people and expanding the knowledge about our office, especially in terms of approachability and the problem-solving we can bring to command needs.”

Naval Station Norfolk celebrates Asian American Pacific Islander Month

By OS3 Sindy Lopez

Naval Station Norfolk Public Affairs

NORFOLK —Naval Station Norfolk (NAVSTA) Norfolk celebrated the Asian American Pacific Islanders during the month of May. The celebration dates back to May of 1992 when President George H.W. Bush signed the bill into law declaring May Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. This year, the United States Navy celebrates the 29th anniversary of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month.

NAVSTA Norfolk’s galley crew took great pride in honoring those of Asian American descent.

“My crew was very happy, especially when we bring new recipes and ideas for special meals,” said Chief Culinary Specialist Victor Nunezmarte.

Nunezmarte was in charge of overseeing the entire event and was excited to see his department work together to not only better their cuisine styles, but also learn about different cultures. CSC’s very own junior enlisted Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Evony Nelson made Strawberry Fanta cake.

In the past, NAVSTA Norfolk has celebrated this event by inviting a speaker to talk about the history of the AAPI culture and ending the event with a cake cutting ceremony, but due to COVID-19 restrictions the crew at the galley had to make the

Naval Station Norfolk’s galley staff display a cake made by Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Evony Nelson during their Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month celebration meal. (MC2 EMILY CASAVANT)

event smaller but still culturally informative.

Naval history is an important part of being a Sailor. Throughout the years the United States Navy has become more culturally diverse and we understand that our brothers and sisters in arms come from different backgrounds and not everyone’s

Editorial Staff Military Editor | MC1 Peter Lewis, news@flagshipnews.com Managing Editor | Ensign James Caliva, news@flagshipnews.com Graphic Designer | Trisha Irving, trisha.irving@virginiamedia.com

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history is the same.

When asked why AAPI history is so important, Nunezmarte said, “It’s very important because we are a very diverse unit, and we need to understand that we, as a Navy, have a history and that history was written by many people before us. We need to recognize each and every single race and

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.

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culture that helped build this great Navy and this is one of the ways we can teach our Sailors about our past history.”

Asian American Pacific Islander Month is celebrated each year to honor the history of all Asian Americans dating back to 1843.

For more information or to learn more about the history visit www.defense.gov

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

Lt. Cmdr. Douglas Weiss, an orthopedic surgeon at Naval Medical Clinic Camp LeJeune, checks the fitting of an orthopedic cast on an active duty service member. (MC2 MICHAEL MOLINA)

NMCCL doctor serves as team physician for USA Hockey

By Michelle Cornell

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune Public Affairs

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — With the U.S. Men’s National Hockey Team in Latvia for the 2021 Ice Hockey World Championship, they are accompanied by one of Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune’s very own Lt. Cmdr. Douglas Weiss, who serves as an orthopedic surgeon at NMCCL, is also a team physician for the men’s USA Hockey team.

From the operating room to the ice hockey rink, Weiss’ desire to serve his country in various roles is evident. What began as a hobby growing up, Weiss has been instrumental in turning the sport into a vital element for fostering a liaison between the Navy and USA Hockey.

“As a joint partnership, when people see this dual role, whether they are part of the

U.S. Navy, or part of USA Hockey, I hope there is a synergistic effect. They’ll want to learn more about USA Hockey or the Navy,” stated Weiss. “This is additional exposure for the Navy, in a whole different context.

The more exposure you have to people and the more experience people have with military members, whether it be an infantryman or an orthopedic surgeon, the more people understand and feel comfortable with our military.”

Weiss has been serving voluntarily as a USA Hockey team physician since 2008, and travels with teams around the world as part of yearly competitions. Weiss commissioned into the U.S. Navy in 2019, and he is thankful for the Navy’s ongoing support in allowing him to continue his participation. Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune’s leadership feels Weiss’s partnership with the national hockey team is beneficial.

“I am thrilled that we can foster and support his ongoing relationship with USA Hockey because the Navy and Marine Corps draw so much benefit from his participation and sustainment of his unique skills,” said Cmdr. Douglas E. Pittner, director for Surgical Services at NMCCL. “[Dr. Weiss] has brought a diverse background into Navy orthopedics that is proving mutually beneficial. The ability to manage injuries in high level athletes is a combination of both art and science…there are many similarities to management of musculoskeletal injuries in high-performance active duty Marines such as our [Marine Corps Special Operations Command] team.”

Weiss hopes that his partnership with USA Hockey, will familiarize people with the career opportunities available through the military.

“There are just so many different job

opportunities within the military, and anytime you have a chance to get trained, whether you stay in or a make it a career, it can only help you,” said Weiss. “I work with so many wonderful people in my work with the U.S. Navy and my work with USA Hockey. Circumstances are different from a hockey rink than say an operating base in Afghanistan, but the team concept is the same. Everyone belongs to a group, we all have a part and we all work together, and in reliance of each other, within the context of one mission.”

When asked about Weiss’ unique dual role, NMCCL’s commander is supportive.

“Lt. Cmdr. Weiss is a Navy ambassador to the world, simultaneously strengthening community relationships and representing the Navy and Department of Defense at the elite level of professional hockey,” said Capt.

Reginald Ewing, commander, NMCCL. “Our Sailors and Marines are akin to professional athletes, so it’s a natural fit for Lt. Cmdr.

Weiss to care for our nation’s warfighters and USA Hockey players!”

This year’s IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship is taking place May 21 — June 6 in Riga, Latvia. The U.S. Men’s National Team is slated for matches against Finland, Canada and Kazakhstan among other nations.

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

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Veteran Employee Readiness Group founding member Jonathan Echols places flags on the graves of fallen service members during the annual flag placement ceremony at the Captain Ted Conaway Memorial Naval Cemetery in Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), May 27. (SHELBY WEST)

Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s VET-ERG partners with Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Portsmouth in annual flag placement ceremony in honor of Memorial Day

By Kristi R Britt

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Veteran Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG) collaborated with Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads, Portsmouth annex, in their annual flag placement ceremony May 27 in honor of Memorial Day. Shipyard employees joined members of NSA Hampton Roads Portsmouth as well as members of the Portsmouth Chapter of the

Navy Wives Club at the Captain Ted Conaway Memorial Naval Cemetery in Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), placing more than 880 flags on the graves of fallen service members from eight countries. This marks the seventh year NNSY has collaborated with NSA Hampton Roads Portsmouth in this endeavor to honor the fallen.

“This is an important task to place the flags on the graves of our fallen service members and I’m thankful to each person who has stepped up to assist us,” said NSA Hampton Roads Portsmouth Site Director Kenneth

Pugh. “It’s a tradition that we hold dear to our hearts.”

“It’s very rewarding seeing our group continue to help not only our shipyard brothers and sisters but also the community at large, providing service where needed,” said VET-ERG President Nicholas Boyle also participated with his son Connor Boyle during the event. “We’ve always happy to support this great cause in honor of our fallen and I look forward to our group’s efforts in the future as well.”

VET-ERG Founding Member Jonathan

Echols has been a big part in helping to organize NNSY’s participation for this event, leading the charge for its duration in ensuring America’s Shipyard turned out to assist in placing flags. “It is a tremendous opportunity for all of us to ensure these brave men and women are remembered and honored for their sacrifices and it’s something I look forward to participating in every year,” said Echols. “As a Veteran, it’s very important to me to be able to show my respect to my fellow brothers and sisters in the armed forces, and honor the fallen on Memorial Day as well as every day I can. I hope our efforts continue to inspire others to also do their part in remembering our fallen as well. It’s up to us to continue their legacy.”

“I feel it’s important to place flags on these graves for the people who went before us to defend our freedom and democracy. Without their sacrifices and service, where would we be today?” said VET-ERG Member Ricky Burroughs. “We thank them so much for what they have done for us and this is just one of the ways we can honor the remembered.”

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, June 3, 2021 5

Petty Officers Francheska Keith, Christian Woods and Astrid Santiago participate in the Second Class Petty Officer Association (SCPOA) cleanup efforts by bagging leaves in Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY’s) historic Trophy Park. (SHELBY WEST)

NNSY’s Second Class Petty Officer Association: Second to none in installation pride

By Jason Scarborough

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY’s) Second Class Petty Officers Association (SCPOA) recently took an afternoon to clean up the shipyard’s historic Trophy Park. The park proudly displays the shipyard’s heritage. A sense of history

and pride is what led the SCPOA to take action, helping to ensure beauty of the park was preserved and increasing pride in the installation. The SCPOA began the first of several planned landscape restoration and cleaning projects within the park, starting with clearing excess leaves, vines, sticks and various other yard debris.

Trophy Park is rich in history. Located on

a portion of the original Gosport Navy Yard site since being established circa 1870, the park was home to official military gatherings and concerts by ship’s bands. The gazebo in the center has served as both a bandstand and ceremonial platform for many events, including Change of Command ceremonies, and throughout the grounds are naval weaponry and artifacts from nine wars — spanning

more than 250 years.

President of the SCPOA Petty Officer Second Class Fox Hyrst stated, “The Petty Officer Association is out here today to show our C.O.R.E. values (Care, Ownership, Respect, and Excellence). We want to bring out the beauty in the yard by helping to restore Trophy Park to its historic state.”

One of the missions of the SCPOA is to enhance the social and professional interaction of Sailors, build camaraderie and develop unit cohesion.

The project was a win for NNSY. Shipyard Commander, Capt. Dianna Wolfson said, “A big thank you to NNSY’s SCPOA for recently taking an afternoon to clean up Trophy Park, one of the shipyard’s most unique and historic areas! Through the years, this park has been the site of events ranging from community concerts to Change of Command ceremonies.

The SCPOA taking the initiative to beautify the park is so greatly appreciated!”

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6 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, June 3, 2021

Tom Metz, a bagpiper and retired lieutenant colonel from the United States Army, performs Amazing Grace during the annual Norfolk Naval Shipyard Memorial Day Fall-In for Colors. (ALDO ANDERSON)

Norfolk Naval Shipyard holds annual Memorial Day Fall-In for Colors

By Kristi R Britt

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH — Every year in May, Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) employees come together to observe Memorial Day with the annual Fall-In for Colors hosted by the Veterans’ Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG). This year’s ceremony, held May 26, brought the workforce together in remembrance of the service members who sacrificed their lives in service to the United States Armed Forces.

“Memorial Day is a day of remembrance and reflection, as many perished in the prime of their lives, leaving behind so many loved ones to treasure their memories, and

carry on their legacies. It is a day for us to remember the quote: ‘gone, but never forgotten,’ ” said Shipyard Executive Officer Capt. Todd Nichols. “Today we stand in solidarity as dedicated NNSY team members and proud Americans to honor our fallen brothers and sisters. No single sacrifice saves a country, just as no single person maintains our shipyard. It works as a unit, together, comprised of high performing teams, who choose to sacrifice daily in service to the fleet so the Navy can play its role in protecting this Nation. We are but ‘One Team’ that is serving one greater mission.”

The guest speaker for the event was Internal Shop Manager Stephen “Pete” Sellers, a retired Submarine Qualifications Electronics

Technician Chief Petty Officer (ETC (SS)) who served in the United States Navy for more than 18 years. “Memorial Day is a day to remember those men and women who gave their lives for this country, this Nation,” said Sellers. “We remember the what, the when, the who. But for me, what is most important is the why. I celebrate this day the country, the Nation, for which these men and women gave their ‘last full measure of devotion’.”

The VET-ERG and Naval Civilian Managers Association (NCMA) held a wreath dedication during the ceremony as well as crafted a symbolic Battlefield Cross out of personal effects of shipyard veterans to represent their fallen brothers and sisters. In addition, there

were musical performances from the U.S. Fleet Forces Ceremonial Band including “Taps” as well as a rendition of “Amazing Grace” by bagpiper Tom Metz, a retired Lt. Col. from the United States Army. The Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA) Honor Guard provided a 21-gun salute to honor the fallen.

“Each year, the Veterans’ ERG tries to do better, and boost the morale of NNSY employees, with each event. Last year during the pandemic, we pushed forward with a much scaled down event because of restrictions,” said VET-ERG President Nicholas Boyle. “This year, we have gone above and beyond previous years, raising the bar once again.”

“To our fallen brothers and sisters, we can never thank you enough for the sacrifices made by you and your families,” said Capt.

Nichols. “Not a day goes by where we don’t honor what you have given to our Nation.

You may be gone, but we will never forget.

We will continue to honor your legacies as we march forward into tomorrow, standing upon the shoulders of your sacrifices.”

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, June 3, 2021 7

Alma Powell from Page 1

Rene Goree is one of Navy Region Mid-Atlantic’s (NRMA) five equal employment opportunity (EEO) specialists. (COURTESY PHOTO)

NRMA EEO from Page 1

that resolution being realistic,” said Goree.

“When an individual contacts an EEO counselor, it can seem like the worst day of their life.”

Goree said she once had an individual that was upset because they were not selected for a certain job position. After having a conversation with that individual, she called USAJOBS and found out that they submitted the wrong resume.

“Sometimes in order to get resolution we have to go beyond our positions. I was glad I was able to assist,” she added. “This was

not the career path of my intention, but I would not change it. I feel in this position as an EEO counselor and complaints manager, I am fulfilling sense of duty and responsibility.”

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.

America’s Promise Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the education opportunities of disadvantaged children, Mrs. Powell helped to lead more than 450 partner network’s efforts to help tens of thousands of young people by connecting them with resources essential for academic success.

Due to her extensive experience in youth education initiatives, she also served as a board member of several educational, cultural, charitable, and civic organizations including President Barrack Obama’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the YouthBuild U.S.A Advisory Board.

Koprowski, spoke to the essence of Powell’s inspirational life during the ceremony.

“Thanks to the efforts of civil rights activists like Mrs. Powell, America is a different place,” Koprowski said of Powell, the longtime advocate of women, children, and minorities. “There are greater opportunities for American’s from all walks of life.”

Koprowski added that while he believes

Memorial Day from Page 1

That’s so true with our fallen brothers and sisters as well — their sacrifices, tragic as they were, were not in vain. It’s their efforts that delivered democracy, drove back oppression, and showed us that while freedom isn’t free, it absolutely is priceless.

Today, we must remember them, recognize their efforts, and reflect on how they model the most proud and patriotic qualities of the American citizenry.”

Mayor Glover said, “As we continue as a

there is greater equality in our nation now than at any point in our history, we still have a long way to go to reach equality across all races, genders, creeds, and faiths.

“Leaders at all levels have to make conscious decisions and take resolute action to demonstrate equality and appreciation for all who contribute,” Koprowski said. “That’s why there is no better time for us to look within and remember from where it is that we derive our strength, our soul, and celebrate Mrs. Powell and her life’s long mission of better lives for ALL Americans.”

The Powells were not able to attend the ceremony in person; however, they recorded a video message for the crew.

“I am told that the ship forever carries my spirit,” said Alma Powell. “I am proud and honored that today, it not only carries my spirit, it carries my name.”

Kearsarge’s airfield was dedicated by illustrating, “Alma Powell Airfield,” on the superstructure of the ship overlooking the flight deck.

“There simply is no more deserving or fitting a name for our airfield,” said Koprowski. “May she forever inspire those who serve on this mighty warship.”

country to strive and work towards a more perfect union, it is incumbent upon each of us to never forget the reason that we all enjoy the freedoms is because of those brave men and women who sacrificed everything so that we could have their opportunities.

Although we know our country is great, we continue to strive, we continue to grow, and we continue to evolve as a nation. Let us remember, today, let us be one, let us be together.”

This event was livestreamed on the NNSY Facebook page and can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/NorfolkNavalShipyard1/videos/1201335490316920.

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8 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, June 3, 2021

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, June 3, 2021 1

A strategic shipyard There has been an increased focus on the region covering the vast area from the west coast of the United States to the west coast of India known as the Indo-Pacific. Page B3

Department of the Navy FY 2022 President’s Budget From Department Of The Navy Public Affairs

Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Recruit Daylon Burgess, from Cleveland, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), receives a COVID-19 vaccine from Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class David Bautista, from Temecula, Calif., assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), on the mess decks aboard the Stennis. (MCSN CRAYTON AGNEW)

Navy administers one million vaccines since beginning of COVID-19 pandemic

By Angela Steadman BUMED Public Affairs

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Navy Medicine providers have administered more than 1,000,000 COVID-19 vaccines to Sailors, Marines, DoD civilians and beneficiaries at 65 medical and 13 operational Navy sites around the world. Over half of active-duty Navy personnel have been fully immunized and vaccinations continue to occur rapidly.

“We have a clear path to winning this war, but only if everyone gets vaccinated. Thanks to the scientific research and medical advancements we have made over the past decade — we now have three safe and effective vaccines in our arsenal to protect ourselves, our fellow Sailors and Marines, and our loved ones against a disease which has killed more than 580,000 Americans,” said Rear Adm. Bruce Gillingham, Navy surgeon general, chief, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Navy Medicine has been at the forefront of the latest scientific research and findings in the fight against this deadly virus and its

variants. Scientists, researchers and medical personnel from all over the world have worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and readiness of our Sailors, Marines, DoD civilians and beneficiaries.

Similarly to scientific studies and literature, Navy Medicine has seen a 95% effectiveness rate in fully immunized Sailors and Marines, and an 85% effectiveness rate among partially immunized Sailors and Marines since the first vaccines were given in late December 2020.

“We are winning,” said Rear Adm. Bruce Gillingham. “The effectiveness numbers for the Covid-19 vaccines are very promising and those who are vaccinated are now able to participate in more and more activities, which is encouraging for a lot of people.”

This month, the FDA expanded the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer vaccine to include adolescents 12 to 15 years old. With the release of this guidance, Navy Medicine anticipates an increase in vaccines for beneficiaries over the next several weeks.

In addition, last week, the Deputy Secretary of Defense and the Vice Chairman of

the Joint Chiefs of Staff released a memorandum reaffirming support for initiatives by local commanders to encourage vaccination acceptance among all service members.

As life begins to return to normal for those who are fully vaccinated, Rear Adm. Gillingham cautioned, “Those who have not been fully vaccinated must remain vigilant and continue to follow all applicable Defense guidance, including wearing masks indoors.”

Vaccination appointments remain open to all eligible beneficiaries. Those looking to make an appointment are encouraged to make an appointment at their soonest availability through www.tricare.mil/vaccineappointments. Those who have questions and/ or concerns about receiving any of the three available vaccines are encouraged to speak with a medical provider.

To watch Rear Adm. Gillingham’s latest message on COVID-19, please visit https:// youtu.be/X7ApFDiCMvo For more information on vaccines, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/keythingstoknow. html

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Navy’s (DoN) Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) President’s Budget submission (PB22) of $211.7B is an increase of $3.8B (1.8%) from the FY21 enacted budget. This budget supports and aligns with the President’s Interim National Security Strategy and the Tri-Service Maritime Strategy and reflects a collaborative effort to maintain our advantage at sea. The Department used an analytically driven approach, supported by a strong history of reform to drive the maximum value of each dollar. At the end of the day, it’s a return on investment for the security and prosperity of the American people.

Ultimately, the strength of our Navy is measured by our ability to control the seas and to project power. Our Navy needs to operate forward to do that. The budget provides for a deployable battle force of 296 ships in FY22. This supports 11 aircraft carriers and 31 amphibious ships that serve as the foundation for our carrier and amphibious ready groups.

This budget represents the best mix of investments to defend the nation by innovating and modernizing the force, taking care of our people, and succeeding through teamwork. It continues the Navy’s recapitalization of the Columbia-class strategic ballistic missile submarine, our number one acquisition priority and a significant investment needed to maintain our strategic nuclear deterrent into the future. The Department continues to innovate with capabilities and concepts of operations as we continue towards distributed maritime operations enhanced by investments in platforms, hypersonic weapons, and unmanned capabilities. To enhance our readiness, this budget makes targeted investments in training, ship maintenance, flying hours, and infrastructure. The Department remains committed to our most valuable asset — our people — with increased focus on eradicating sexual harassment and emphasis on the mental and physical readiness of our fighting force and their families. And we succeed through teamwork by sustaining naval exercises with allies and partners.

In FY22, 17 battle force ships will be delivered: 3 destroyers, 1 Zumwalt destroyer, 3 nuclear attack submarines (SSN), 5 littoral combat ships (LCS), 1 amphibious transport dock (LPD), 1 fleet replenishment oiler (T-AO), 1 expeditionary fast transport (T-EPF), 1 expeditionary staging base (T-ESB), and 1 first-in-class towing, salvage, and rescue ship (T-ATS). Additionally, 14 battle force ships will be retired: 4 littoral combat ships (LCS), 2 nuclear attack submarines (SSN), 7 cruisers (CG), 1 amphibious transport dock (LSD), and 1 fleet ocean tug (T-ATF). Under fiscal constraints, the Navy will decommission legacy capabilities and ships to enable increased investment in assets that will give us a stronger, agile, and more lethal force.

Turn to Budget, Page 7

Navy advancement results for E-4 through E-6 delayed due to COVID-19

By Cheryl Dengler

Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center Public Affairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. — It is customary for the Navy to release E-4 through E-6 total force advancement results for more than 90,000 eligible candidates on active duty, full-time support (FTS) and in the Selected Reserve (SELRES) around Memorial Day. This year, like the last, results will be delayed due to COVID-19 mitigations and the expanded window of exam administrations.

For Reserve E-4 through E-6 candidates (cycle 108), the command triads will be notified June 24, and the results will be published on profile sheets in the Navy Enlisted Advancement System (NEAS) Web on June 25.

For the active-duty and full-time support E-4 through E-6 candidates (cycle 251), the command triads will be notified on July 8, and the results will be published on profile sheets in NEAS Web on July 9.

“One of the biggest questions we receive is, ‘why do the results take so long?’ ” said Navy Advancement Center Deputy Director, Tom Updike.

To understand the answer to this question, it is important to know the process and advancement timeline associated with each exam cycle.

First, exams are created and distributed from Naval Education and Training Professional Development Center (NETPDC) in Pensac-

ola, Florida, to all of the requesting commands around the fleet.

“Typically you have a single exam administration date, but now that is a two-week window of testing for each paygrade [due to COVID19],” said Updike. “Exam answer sheet returns are mostly delayed until the end of the [30-day] administration windows.”

Once exams are administered, commands have an additional window of time to administer substitute exams to Sailors who may have missed the original window.

“The exam scoring process requires we get back all substitute answer sheets as well,” said Updike. “Substitute exams administered aboard fleet units in the Indian Ocean take much longer to receive than answer sheets express-mailed from San Diego or Norfolk.”

Next, the employees of the fleet services branch of NETPDC, who work up to eight advancement cycles at a time and scan more than 230,000 answer sheets a year, then scan Sailor exam answer sheets the day they arrive in the mail.

“All answer sheets are scanned into the system within 24 hours of them arriving on site,” said Updike. “Fleet services staff work diligently to ensure errors are corrected and the data is uploaded into NEAS as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Once 95% of a cycle’s exam answer sheets Turn to Advance, Page 7

Electronics Technician 2nd Class Lindsay Ojeda, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5), participates in the Navy wide advancement exam. (MCSN MATTHEW F BROWN)

2

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

Heroes at Home

Q: Will I be assigned to housing that is less than what I am authorized?

A: Service members will not normally be involuntarily assigned to housing at less than assignment criteria for their pay grade except when military necessity is declared in writing by the Commanding Officer of the installation. You can request a house that is less than what is authorized as long as you sign an acknowledgement that you are voluntarily accepting less than what you are authorized and that you understand you will not be moved to other housing at a later date.

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Picking battles with the Mutilation Generation

By Lisa Smith Molinari

Our 26-year-old son hasn’t trimmed his beard in three years and wears a brown Walmart sweatshirt every day. Our 23-yearold daughter had her café au lait hair dyed orangey copper. Our 20-year-old daughter wears long, wildly-painted fingernails and a fake nose ring.

If I had my way, they’d be clean cut and all natural, but I encourage these semi-permanent fashion choices. Why? Because today’s kids are under pressure to take risks to fit in, often in the form of permanent tattoos and body piercings.

My parents had it so easy. They never worried that I might come home with a tattoo on my thigh or a bolt through my cheek, because back then, only punk rockers and ne’er-do-wells did that kind of thing.

Well … unless you count Navy sailors.

But today, it doesn’t matter how well we raise our kids. It doesn’t mean a hill of beans what socio-economic category your family falls into. It’s irrelevant whether your kids are on the Dean’s List or in detention, whether your kids want to be doctors or ditch diggers, whether they aspire to live in the White House or the Big House.

Today, behavior that was once reserved for the fringes of society has become mainstream.

It’s no longer a question of whether our kids will get tattoos or body piercings, but when.

In 1984, my college dorm mate shoved a needle through my left earlobe and into a raw potato, then inserted a tiny gold stud. That night while dancing to Duran Duran at the frats, I sported my new asymmetrical ears with confidence. The third earring seemed to scream, “Look! I’m not the geek you thought I was!”

That was about as daring as we got back in the eighties. But being cool now requires elaborate tattoos and piercings on every body part imaginable: tongues, cheeks, eyebrows, lips, nostrils, and nipples, to name a few.

While we were stationed in Germany, I was at my daughter’s indoor soccer tournament when the moms on either side of me struck up a conversation.

“When I turned 40, I got my lower back tattoo and . . .”

“Oh my God, me too!” the other mom interrupted, lifting her shirt to show an Asian symbol. “I’m not exactly sure what it means.”

The moms went on to complain that their jeans irritated their belly button rings, and I began to worry.

With everyone (and their mother, literally) mutilating their bodies these days, to what extremes will our kids go to set themselves apart? And, what will happen when they age?

Does a lower back tattoo that says “Juicy” end up looking more like “Jeewillickers” after stretch marks, age spots and spider veins?

Will Grandma look sexy when it peeks out

of her elastic waistband during morning calisthenics at The Happy Acres Retirement Village? Maybe Grandpa will stop eating his rice pudding long enough to wheel his chair over and slap her on the tush. Grandma might wink at him, because only she knows that under all that half-chewed rice his dentures are hiding a tongue piercing he got when he was 18.

Wow, that’s hot.

Should we give in and buy our kids gift cards from “Needles R Us?” Should we accompany them for their first bolt-fitting and take them out for ice cream afterwards? Should we pick out tattoo designs for ourselves to fit our parental lifestyles? (I might start with a nice frying pan on my hip, or maybe a laundry basket on my ankle.)

No, we shouldn’t embrace body mutilation anymore than we should keep badgers as pets, but we should keep trying to talk sense to our kids.

Soon after that indoor soccer game, my husband and I made a family rule: If you want to get a permanent tattoo or body piercing, you must be a financially independent adult.

In the meantime, you are welcome to let your semi-permanent freak flag fly as long as we are paying for your phone, car, college tuition, health insurance, room or board.

And if you really want to take risks, leave your body unaltered and become a true non-conformist.

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Stress Management During Deployment From Military Onesource In the military, stress happens. But too much stress can have negative effects on performance, safety and well-being. During deployment, it is especially important to know the signs of stress and to be ready with good stress management techniques.

Know the symptoms Don’t ignore the signs of stress. It can affect your performance and safety. These are a few of the symptoms: Problems sleeping Unusual irritability or angry outbursts Unusual anxiety or panic attacks Difficulty completing tasks or making decisions Trouble concentrating Signs of depression (such as apathy or loss of interest in things once enjoyed) Any unusual changes in behavior, personality or thinking Nine tips for effective stress management Keep up the routine of regular meals, sleep and exercise.

Watch your health. Drink plenty of water. Eat nutritious meals. Exercise and get enough sleep.

Give yourself a break. Rest after stressful events. Learn relaxation techniques.

Download the free Chill Drills app. This collection of audio mindfulness exercises was developed for the military community to help manage stress.

Talk to others who’ve been there. You’ll see you’re not alone.

Work to build trust with your unit, at home and within your community.

Have a laugh. Humor can be a powerful stress reliever and can help you see things differently.

Address your spiritual needs. Many find strength and calm in prayer. Discuss your concerns with a chaplain.

Ask for help with problems back home,

U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Charles Harris, assigned to the USS Freedom (LCS 1), embraces his daughter during a homecoming celebration at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, Calif., Aug. 7, 2013.

(DANIEL M YOUNG)

or ask someone on the home front to take care of stressful issues that may arise while you are deployed.

How to find help for stress Stress is a physical reaction, not a sign of weakness. If you or someone nearby is having trouble with stress, get professional support as soon as possible to speed recovery. Here are some resources for stress relief. They’re confidential, won’t affect your security clearance, and are not reported to the command: Contact us at Military OneSource. We offer confidential sessions with licensed professionals at no cost to military members and their families — and we have helped many service members work through issues, including stress management. Health and wellness coaching is also available to help you manage stress by developing better diet, exercise and sleep habits. Find out more about Military OneSource’s confidential, non-medical counseling here. Or call us at 800-3429647.

Military and family life counselors are also available through your installation’s

Military and Family Support Center.

Combat stress control teams. These mental health professionals support service members on site during deployment.

Your unit’s chaplain. Military chaplains can provide counseling, guidance and referral on many issues during deployment.

For medical help with stress: You may be eligible for a referral for medical counseling services in your community through a military treatment facility or TRICARE. Therapy services may be available at your nearest military treatment facility or a local network provider.

Your primary care manager can refer you to appropriate counseling, or you may contact your regional TRICARE office.

Remember, we all experience stress, but it doesn’t have to run your life. Reach out, take steps, take control.

If you are in crisis, or you know someone who is, there are immediate resources available to support you or your loved ones. Contact the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-8255, then press 1, or access online chat by texting 838255.

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

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS William P Lawrence (DDG 110) docks in Dry Dock #4, March 9, completing one of the first major milestones in the ship’s docking selected restricted availability. (ASHLEIGH WHITNEY)

A strategic shipyard in the Indo-Pacific

By Ashleigh Whitney

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii —In the last decade, there has been an increased focus on the region covering the vast area from the west coast of the United States to the west coast of India - known as the Indo-Pacific. This region covers the most area of any of the Department of Defense’s six combatant commands and is a vital driver of the global economy.

The Indo-Pacific includes the world’s busiest international sea lanes and nine of the ten largest ports supporting global commerce. While many think goods are mostly moved by air cargo, in fact more than 80% of the volume of international trade in goods travel throughout the world’s oceans requiring free and open sea lanes to maintain the global economy. Specifically in the Indo-Pacific, one-third of the world’s maritime shipping, valued at more than $3 trillion, flow through the sea lanes in the South China Sea yearly.

The region is also heavily militarized with seven of the world’s ten largest standing militaries and five of the world’s declared nuclear

nations. Beginning in 2009, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) steadily increased territorial and maritime claims in the South China Sea. The PRC has unilaterally claimed semi-submerged reefs and militarized the land by building man-made islands with military bases. The United States and its allies have rejected these claims and regularly assert the right to freely navigate in international waters by conducting freedom of navigation operations.

As a global nation, the United States is a major player in leading and supporting our allies to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region despite challenges from near competitors.

Upholding the rule of law and freedom of navigation is required to maintain global stability and the free flow of commerce. The U.S. Navy’s frequent presence and operations throughout the region upholds our diplomatic and military commitments and common regional goals so that all nations benefit.

The ships and submarines homeported at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam directly participate in the Indo-Pacific mission when they deploy. If these ships are unable to respond to a potential threat or deploy on time, the Navy’s ability to provide a forward-deployed presence

may be compromised.

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & Intermediate Maintenance Facility (PHNSY & IMF) has a massive strategic impact for the Navy’s ships and submarines. Successfully executing the shipyard mission directly impacts the combat power and presence available at any given time. In addition, the shipyard’s location in the Indo-Pacific allows ships to remain a week transit time closer to hot spots in the South China Sea with the ability to conduct both depot-level and intermediate-level maintenance in Hawaii instead of the west coast.

“The shipyard’s motto - “We Keep Them Fit to Fight” - are not idle words,” said Rear Adm. Robb Chadwick, Commander, Surface Group Middle Pacific. “Our ships have to operate at top efficiency to fully execute their mission.

The demonstrated ability to conduct complex repairs to our surface ships is strategically vital. A ship will most likely be able to get any repairs it needs here as opposed to transiting the Pacific to a west coast shipyard. That means they can return to their mission after a far shorter period of time. Particularly for emergent repairs, the quicker repairs can be made, the sooner the ships can move to the front line.”

For the shipyard, completing each short intermediate-level and longer depot-level availability on time, every time is the vital link to ensuring the Navy and each crew has a fully operational ship to respond to whatever mission is tasked. Each shipyard employee directly contributes to the nation’s national security mission and global commitment to its allies by keeping the Fleet fit to fight. Just as those who served in the shipyard during World War II resurrected and kept the Pacific Fleet sailing, today’s workforce contributes to that legacy in a new era - one of a renewed power competition where our Navy and nation must continue to lead the way.

PHNSY & IMF is a field activity of NAVSEA and a one-stop regional maintenance center for the Navy’s surface ships and submarines.

It is the largest industrial employer in the state of Hawaii, with a combined civilian and military workforce of approximately 6,400. It is the most comprehensive fleet repair and maintenance facility between the U.S. West Coast and the Far East, strategically located in the heart of the Pacific, being about a week’s steaming time closer to potential regional contingencies in the Indo-Pacific.

For more news from Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard & IMF, visit navsea.navy.mil/Home/ Shipyards/PHNS-IMF or facebook.com/PearlHarborNavalShipyard.

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

Gallery of Corpsmen representing 123 years of service. (ANDRE SOBOCINSKI)

More than a name: An etymological journey of the Hospital Corps

By André Sobocinski BUMED Public Affairs

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — “Hospital Corpsmen” is more than a name for an enlisted medical specialist. Becoming a Hospital Corpsman takes rigorous training, meeting personnel qualification standards and proficiency in the core competencies. This was a fact known even before the Hospital Corps was formally established on June 17th, 1898.

When Navy Surgeon General J. Rufus Tryon first advocated for a Hospital Corps in 1893, he recognized that medical sailors aboard ship and at shore stations needed requisite skills and tools necessary for their trade. For Tryon, the naval hospital was the chief training platform for inculcating prospective corpsmen, hence the name “Hospital Corps.”

In 1898, the Navy organized its loose conglomeration of apothecaries, medical attendants and purveyors into three enlisted rates (hospital steward, hospital apprentice first class, and hospital apprentice) and a warrant grade (pharmacist). Since then all who have served under the banner of this corps have been known by the moniker “Hospital Corpsmen” or simply “Corpsmen.”

All hospital corpsmen both past and present can tell you that tradition holds great importance to their corps. The Hospital Corps is the largest occupational enlisted rating and most highly decorated enlisted rate in the U.S. Navy. Stories abound of hospital corpsmen’s heroic and selfless actions on the battlefields of Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, Okinawa, Khe Sanh and Fallujah.

To date, Hospital Corpsmen have been the recipients of 22 Medals of Honor, 199 Navy Crosses and some 984 Silver Stars.

As well-known as the stories of service and

sacrifice is the tradition of the corps’ origins — any corpsman today can tell you that the seeds of the Hospital Corps were planted long before 1898.

Aboard the Navy’s first sailing vessels launched in the Quasi-War with France were the curiously named “loblolly boys.”

Among them was John Wall of Alexandria, Virginia, who reported aboard USS Constellation on June 1, 1798 and served aboard the ship during her engagement with the French frigate L’Insurgente in February 1799. In the following years other loblolly boys appeared on the Navy’s rolls among them African-American sailor Joseph Anderson aboard USS Eagle (1800), Alexander Wood aboard USS Essex (1802), and John Dormyn aboard USS Philadelphia (1803).

Although “loblolly boy” may seem like a less-than-flattering appellation today, the name was a carry-over from the British Royal Navy. The word is derived from “lob” meaning “to bubble and boil” and “lolly” meaning “broth or soup.” The term loblolly was associated with a porridge or thick gruel and loblolly boys like John Wall administered this form of nourishment to the sick and injured. In those first years of the U.S. Navy, the loblolly boy name was also used interchangeably with “waister” (so named for the location of the ship where patients were treated AKA, “the waist”) and “hospital mates” at medical facilities ashore.

The Navy officially adopted “Loblolly Boy” as a rate in 1814. And the United States Navy Regulations of 1818 first identified the job duties of a loblolly boy. They included: • Ringing a small bell “fore and aft the gun berth decks” to notify the crew of sick call.

• Filling a small washtub with sand to receive the blood during any operation, and prevent the deck of the cockpit (location of

the sickbay) from being bloodied.

• Ensuring that the surgeon has all necessary provisions and hospital stores for treating the sick and injured.

Although the Navy never officially disestablished the loblolly boy name the term faded from use and was superseded by “surgeon steward” at sea and “hospital steward” at naval hospitals beginning in the 1840s.

“Surgeon” was the originally name for Navy physicians, all of whom in the days of the sailing ship were expected to perform surgery at sea. The word “steward” defined the scope of these enlisted sailors—i.e., “kept the medical journal, compounded and dispensed drugs, applied bandages, and performed the operation of cupping and leeching.” Aboard brigs and schooners, surgeon stewards were the second most senior enlisted rank after master-at-arms.

Beginning on June 16, 1861, surgeon stewards were joined by the new enlisted rate “nurse.” Like surgeon stewards, nurses were enlisted sailors designated for medical service by the commanding officer of the vessel upon the recommendation of the senior surgeon. As the profession of nursing was still in development in the United States these shipboard “nurses” did not have any formalized training but rather were sailors designated for attending to the infirm. Naval vessels with a complement of 200 or less were allotted one nurse, while ships with over 200 were allotted two designated nurses. Four Navy surgeon stewards and two nurses were among the 2,112 sailors killed in action during the Civil War. The position of surgeon steward was superseded by “apothecary” per Navy circular order of December 8, 1866 and organized into three rates (apothecary first class, apoth-

50th BALTOPS kicks off in June From U.S. Sixth Fleet Public Affairs

NAPLES, Italy — The 50th Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) exercise, the premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region, takes place in the Baltic Sea from June 6-18.

This milestone exercise demonstrates a steadfast commitment to NATO and continues to change to meet evolving regional security requirements.

Air and maritime assets from NATO allies and partner nations are involved in the live training events. Training focus areas include integration of air defense, anti-submarine warfare, maritime interdiction, mine countermeasure, and amphibious operations.

The exercise enhances flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations to strengthen combined response capabilities, as well as demonstrate international resolve to ensure stability in, and if necessary defend, the Baltic Sea region.

BALTOPS 50 involves participation from 18 nations. The 16 NATO and 2 partner nations will provide approximately 40 maritime units, 60 aircraft, and 4,000 personnel.

The participating nations are: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the U.K., and the U.S. To ensure the safety and health of participating military personnel, BALTOPS 50 will take precautionary COVID mitigation measures. This step allows units to enhance multinational operational cooperation, while ensuring that crews remain healthy, and ready to provide continuous regional security.

Initiated in the 1972, BALTOPS is an annual exercise that is a visible demonstration of NATO’s commitment to promote peace and security in the region by exercising an international team of forces that can rapidly respond in a time of crisis.

(COURTESY GRAPHIC)

ecary second class and apothecary third class). Apothecaries were specialized senior enlisted required to have some pharmacy training. In 1896—52 years before Navy Hospital Corpsmen first wore the caduceus—apothecaries were the first sailors to wear this symbol as a rating badge. When the hospital corps was established, enlisted apothecaries were elevated to warrant officer “pharmacists.” Twenty-five apothecaries were appointed as warrant officers in September 1898, some like Cornelius O’Leary of Ireland—the patriarch of the Hospital Corps—was already a 37-year veteran of the service at that point.

In 1873, enlisted nurses were redesignated “baymen.” In all likelihood the name was referred to the place on the ship where they practiced their trade—i.e., the sick bay.

Like their predecessors, baymen were designated for this role from ship’s command.

Two baymen were among those killed in the February 1898 explosion of USS Maine in Havana Harbor. And during the Spanish-American War, five baymen assigned the First Marine Battalion in Guantanamo represented some of the first medical sailors embedded with the Marines. The bayman was superseded by the enlisted grades hospital steward, hospital apprentice first class, and hospital apprentice when the Hospital Corps was established.

With one warrant officer and three enlisted rates, the Hospital Corps of 1898 allowed little room for sailors to advance.

On August 29, 1916 the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery (BUMED) reorganized the Hospital Corps into six enlisted rates (chief pharmacist’s mate, pharmacist’s mate first class, pharmacist’s mate second class, pharmacist’s mate third class, hospital apprentice first class, and hospital apprentice second class). The name “pharmacist’s mate” did not mean these sailors were relegated to roles in the pharmacy.

Rather the name denoted that they were subordinate to the pharmacist—much like junior physicians a century earlier served as “surgeon’s mates” alongside the more senior “surgeons.” Hospital Corpsmen served as pharmacist’s mates until 1948 when the Corps was again reorganized and adopted the present-day names, sans “senior” or “master chief.” A decade later, in May 1958 the Navy expanded its enlisted rating structure adding the grades of senior chief and master chief petty officer of the Hospital Corps.

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, June 3, 2021 5

Samuel Stockton, 14-year old son of Naval Hospital Bremerton Command Master Chief Rob Stockton, is administered his first dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. (DOUGLAS STUTZ)

Adolescents ages 12, older eligible for COVID-19 vaccinations at NHB

By Douglas Stutz

Naval Hospital Bremerton Public Affairs

BREMERTON, Wash. — At age 14, Samuel Stockton likes his school, is active in youth soccer, and is anxious to return to a typical routine which has been anything but for over a year.

Accustomed to playing offense on the soccer pitch, that same principle of mounting an attack against a foe played out not on the field of play, but in an immunization clinic.

Samuel’s dad, Naval Hospital Bremerton (NHB) Command Master Chief Rob Stockton brought his son in to be administered the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine.

“I wanted to keep him healthy and also prevent him from unintentionally spreading the virus,” said Stockton.

Although a lot of students might appreciate getting away from school on a weekday, that approach was not a reason or any kind of motivation for Samuel.

“Missing school was definitely not an incentive. He likes school,” Stockton said.

“But it shows how important getting the vaccine is, thus we prioritized health and safety over a morning of school.”

As has been the case for many schoolage children, the pandemic has disrupted school curriculum(s), curtailed multiple individual and team sporting events and participation, and put a crimp on social interactions.

The virus has also directly impacted and infected the children.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than three million kids under the age of 17 have

contracted COVID. Even though it is rare for adolescents and teens to get severely ill from COVID, it can happen. While cases, hospitalization and deaths are down, COVID patients are currently trending to be younger than they were before.

Not Samuel. His first dose of Pfizer COVID-19 has been administered. “Hardly felt it at all,” he said.

The shot over, it was back to school and soccer, armed with a vaccination to take on a pervasive virus. His father thinks he’ll share with others he got the vaccine.

“In particular, COVID protocol for youth sports are a consideration,” explained Stockton. “Encouraging his teammates to get the vaccine allows them to resume normal activities sooner.”

As a military treatment facility, NHB is helping that process along, offering

COVID-19 vaccinations to eligible beneficiaries age 12 and older. The Pfizer COVID19 vaccine is available on a walk-in basis in NHB’s Urgent Care Clinic from 3:30 pm to 7 p.m. during the week and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. The Immunization Clinic is also accepting walk-ins during the week.

A parent or guardian must accompany those under the age of 18.

Appointments can also be made for the COVID-19 vaccination by calling the Puget Sound Military Appointment Center, 1-800-404-4506, from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday-Friday, and from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.

“Last week, the Food and Drug Administration expanded the Emergency Use Authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to include adolescents ages 12 and older. This is big news. Protecting our children, and further limiting transmission of the COVID virus, is the next logical step in our fight to end this pandemic. Upon the CDC Director’s approval, Department of Defense has started administering doses to our expanded teenage population,” stated Lt. Gen. Ronald J. Place, Defense Health Agency director.

The DHA also dispelled the myth that a parent’s school-age child should delay getting the COVID vaccine since they need to get other, school-required vaccinations in a few month. The CDC has determined that the COVID-19 vaccine can be administered at the same time as other vaccine.

Active duty is hiring: Reserve Sailors encouraged to consider CANREC opportunity

By MC3 Tyler C. Priestley

Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. — The Canvasser Recruiter (CANREC) Program is put in place to give Reserve Sailors a chance to be a Reservist recruiter for five years. The program is available to both enlisted and officers and gives Sailors an opportunity to get more involved with their local communities while supporting the Navy’s mission.

Joining the Navy Reserve is a great option for people who want to serve their country, while also pursuing a civilian career. However, if there comes a time when a career on active duty sounds appealing, there are several opportunities that exist for Reserve sailors to make the switch. One of those opportunities recruiting.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Randy Isom, assigned to Commander, Navy Recruiting Command here, has been travelling to Navy Operational Support Centers (NOSC) across the nation to educate Reserve Sailors about this opportunity.

“We found out that a lot of Reservists were interested in recall orders, but they just didn’t know about the CANREC opportunity,” said Isom. “This is why we are trying to spread the

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Randy Isom, a Navy Reserve canvasser recruiter, poses on the quarterdeck of Navy Recruiting Command. (MC3 TYLER PRIESTLEY)

word as much as possible.”

Navy Recruiting Command is looking for individuals who are highly motivated and passionate about being recruiters. The goal is to not just fill quotas, but to find the best and most fully qualified applicants. Reserve Sailors are normally familiar with the civilian job market, and when talking to potential Sailors, their understanding of both worlds can offer a new perspective.

“CANREC is actually a really big help because their input and their contributions are critical to the overall mission of the Navy,” said Isom.

Qualifications for the CANREC program

include; must be an active Selected Reservist at the time of recall, eligible for Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, and meet rank requirements - E-4 to E-6 for enlisted and O-3 or below for officers.

Selected Sailors are sent to Pensacola, Florida, for a 25-day recruiting skills course covering public speaking, prospecting, marketing and more.

“If someone is interested in CANREC then they should get a hold of us,” said Bob Stolt, program manager for CANREC contracts.

“We actually have funds to PCS sailors. So, if they are in the middle of nowhere and are interested in going somewhere like Florida

then we can try to get them out there. They can go on their initial set of orders and we can try to have them stay for up to five years.”

For more information on CANREC, see BUPERS instruction 1001.40 or contact your local Navy Reservist Recruiter at your NOSC. Navy Recruiting Command consists of a command headquarters, three Navy Recruiting Regions, 16 Navy Recruiting Districts and 10 Navy Talent Acquisition Groups that serve more than 1,330 recruiting stations across the world. Their combined goal is to attract the highest quality candidates to ensure the ongoing success of America’s Navy.

6 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, June 3, 2021

Twin brothers Cadets Lt. Col. Kalvin and 1st Lt. Kelvin Rodriguez Rivera, of San Antonio, both seniors attending Highlands High School, were awarded Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Scholarships in the amount of $180,000 each during a special presentation held at the school. (BURRELL PARMER)

America’s Navy awards $360K in scholarships to San Antonio twins

By Burrell Parmer

Navy Recruiting Command Public Affairs

SAN ANTONIO — Twin brothers Cadets Lt. Col. Kalvin and 1st Lt. Kelvin Rodriguez Rivera, of San Antonio, both seniors attending Highlands High School, were awarded Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Scholarships during a special presentation held at the school.

The NROTC Scholarship, valued at up to $180,000, pays for the cost of full tuition, books and other educational fees at many of the country’s leading colleges and universities. Upon graduation, midshipmen are commissioned as ensigns in the Navy or second lieutenants in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Both brothers will be attending the University of Texas majoring in aerospace engineering.

“Being able to serve my country in the future while receiving a quality education

(MC1 PHILLIP PAVLOVICH)

is really thrilling and exciting,” said Kelvin.

“My parents, instructors and the JROTC program prepared me for this very moment.

Being a part of JROTC has mentally and physically prepared me to be a leader.”

“I’m excited and looking forward to attending the University of Texas,” said Kalvin. “I am very thankful for those who’ve helped me along the way. It’s going to be great to have my brother take this journey with me.”

Presenting the awards were Naval Aviators Capt. Davis Koss, of Orange Park, Fla., chairman of Naval Science at the University of Texas and Lt. Maressa Guynn, of Uniontown, Penn., an aviation instructor at the university.

“These two gentlemen are examples of seizing opportunity. Opportunity does not come and not on your door, you have to find it,” said Koss, a former commanding officer of the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels. “These two men have

worked very hard, achieved everything academically and physically, and achieved an aptitude rating that stood out amongst their peers.”

According to retired Lt. Col. Alan W. Maitland, of Houston, the Senior Army JROTC instructor assigned to Highlands High School, the twins’ NROTC scholarships will be the second and third awarded to a Highland student in over a decade.

“The twins have received a great and awesome opportunity,” said Maitland. “I’ve been working with them for three years and without a doubt, they are well deserving of the scholarships.”

Accompanying the twins at the ceremony were their father, Rudy Rodriguez, to include school faculty, veterans organizations, Sailors of Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio, and ret. Army Lt. Col. Jerry Cheatom, director of Army Instruction for the San Antonio Independent School District.

“I am super proud of my sons,” said Rodriguez. “They have met a goal that they had set their minds on attaining; this is just the beginning for them.”

During the ceremony, Kalvin, who serves as Highland’s JROTC battalion commander, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship from Joseph M. Early Disabled American Veterans Post No. 14.

The Navy offers several scholarship programs to help pay for school so a person can enjoy a normal college life and focus on their studies before starting a career in the Navy.

Through these programs, a person will enter the Navy in a leadership position as a commissioned officer. Officers in the Navy have responsibilities that include anything from low-level management to the highest levels of command.

For more information about the NROTC Scholarship program, visit www.navy.com.

Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) San Antonio’s area of responsibility includes two Talent Acquisition Onboarding Centers (TAOC) which manage more than 34 Navy Recruiting Stations and Navy Officer Recruiting Stations spread throughout 144,000 square miles of Central and South Texas territory.

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, June 3, 2021 7

NPS student Lt. Monica Killoran is exploring the implications of possible sea-level rise on Naval Base San Diego through an analysis of tidal fluctuation based on years of collected data.

(COURTESY PHOTO)

NPS student uses multidisciplinary approach to study sea level rise at Navy installation

By Rebecca Hoag

Naval Postgraduate School Public Affairs

MONTEREY, Calif. — For the large number of naval bases located on an ocean’s coast, the prospect of sea level rise (SLR) poses a real potential threat, especially since a rising sea doesn’t necessarily impact everywhere the same way. There are many variables to consider, such as the local coastal geology and geography, as well as tide fluctuations and meteorological events.

While the Naval Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) global SLR maps do well at projecting generally the fate of the coastline after a certain amount of warming, there is a need for more detail, both in space and time, to aid in planning adaptive measures.

Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) student U.S. Navy Lt. Monica Killoran is focusing her

thesis around predicting what high tide will look like for Naval Base San Diego (NBSD) under different SLR scenarios.

“We want to try to capture what could happen if it gets to a specific level,” Killoran explains.

“It’s particularly interesting to try to mix the two things because connecting the dots is what helps us to understand how things are.”

Killoran is earning her master’s degree in meteorology and physical oceanography, and is also pursuing the NPS Space Systems Certificate. Guided by Oceanography Assistant Professor Mara Orescanin and Meteorology Assistant Professor Scott Powell, the combination of topics are suited well to measuring a topic like SLR where the land and sea meet.

In a way, she mixed four of her own interestswith the projet … meteorology, oceanography, climate change, and the Navy. She

was inspired by an NOAA presentation she watched at the 2020 ESRI Ocean, Weather, and Climate Geographic Information System (GIS) forum, where a graduate student presented work similar to her project.

Killoran is trying to create a code that can calculate SLR variability for a certain area once the user plugs in standardized SLR projection data from NOAA and NASA and local tide measurements. Both agencies get their data from altimeters, which are instruments that can measure the height of sea surface from space.

Killoran’s research is funded in part by the Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Pacific, and there is a significant amount of pre-existing data available for her to use.

Although still in the early phases of her work, Killoran hopes to develop a tool and methodology that other bases can easily duplicate.

“I think of the research like an hourglass,”

Orescanin says. “We’re kind of in the information-gathering stage, trying to figure out how much of this has been done already in academia and industry, like how many cities and ports and harbors are planning for things like sea level rise and what steps they are pursuing to make those decisions.”

Killoran chose San Diego to be her first location because the base is closer to Monterey than other candidate installations, and the base has been collecting years worth of tide measurements. As she dives into her research question, Killoran says she is excited to be working on something that will both challenge her, and matches with her own interests. “[Faculty] allow us to go for it if it’s what we want to do,” Killoran says. “Everybody has been so helpful, and I didn’t know there was so much information and resources available.”

Killoran already has other Naval installations in mind that would be good places to explore sea level rise in detail, including Norfolk, Pearl Harbor and Yokosuka.

“There is, in my opinion, probably a lot of room for students to run [with this topic] down the line,” Powell says.

Advance from Page 1

A graphic illustration of the overall fiscal year 2022 Department of the Navy budget. (LUKE LAMBORN)

Budget from Page 1

Ship procurement funds 8 new-construction battle force ships in FY22 (2 SSN, 1 DDG, 1 FFG, 1 T-AO, 2 T-ATS, 1 T-AGOS(X)), as well as four landing craft utility 1700 and two additional ship-toshore connectors. This request also includes continued incremental funding of the first Columbia-class submarine and CVN-80 and CVN-81 Ford-class aircraft carriers.

The Department is completing aircraft procurement of several type-model series, including the P-8A Poseidon and the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Aircraft procurement funds 107 airframes (fixed-wing, rotary-wing, unmanned) in FY22 (17 F-35B, 20 F-35C, 5 E-2D, 6 KC-130J, 9 CH-53K, 3 CMV-22, 5 MV-22B, 36 TH-73A, and 6 MALE-T UAS) and funds operations, maintenance, and training for nine Navy carrier air wings and three Marine Corps wings.

The DoN’s Research and Development (R&D) request continues investment toward innovation to deliver more future capabilities in the near and long-term. R&D funding increases by 13% for the Navy and 9% for the Marine Corps over the FY21 enacted

amounts with our Advanced Component Development and Prototypes (ACD&P) and System Development and Demonstration (SD&D) making up the bulk of the funds. R&D is vital to provide for future technologies that support innovative capabilities in shipbuilding (Columbia-class), aviation (F-35), weapons (Maritime Strike Tomahawk), and experimental technology (Conventional Prompt Strike), unmanned, and cyber technology. These technologies are crucial to maintaining DoN’s competitive advantage.

The Military Construction request of $2.4 billion funds 29 projects (of which, 13 are for the active Navy, 1 for Navy Reserve, 14 for the active Marine Corps, and 1 for Marine Corps Reserve), Unspecified Minor Construction, and Planning and Design.

This request also includes $549.5 million for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP), an increase of over 115% compared to FY21. SIOP is designed to update the physical layout of the four naval shipyards, upgrade and modernize their dry docks, and replace antiquated capital equipment with modern machines.

Total FY22 SIOP investment is $830M. This budget funds key readiness programs to affordable level through sustained invest-

ment and performance improvement: ship depot maintenance; ship operations (58 days/quarter deployed and 24 days/quarter non-deployed); air depot maintenance; flying hours; Marine Corps expeditionary equipment; and facilities sustainment to 80% of the sustainment model (both Navy and Marine Corps).

The budget request supports an active duty end force of 346,200 Navy and 178,500 Marine Corps personnel and a Selected Reserve Force of 58,600 Navy and 36,800 Marine Corps personnel. Most importantly, the DoN request further invests in key programs dedicated to taking care of service members and their families to include mental health programs, sexual assault prevention and response, privatized housing improvement projects, education, and increased child care options. Service members, Department of Defense civilians, and all those who support our mission, are entitled to an environment free of discrimination, hate, and harassment.

With this budget, we are making prudent choices and smart investments in the future of the Navy and Marine Corps, which will enable us to operate forward with the capabilities and confidence necessary for the challenges of the 21st century.

have arrived and processed, to include all aircraft carriers, NETPDC creates an advancement plan (ADPLAN).

“An ADPLAN is a report listing the number of Sailors that passed the exam in each rating,” said Updike. “That report is made available to the enlisted community managers, and at that point there is a process they go through to complete rating quota determinations.”

NETPDC continues to scan late answer sheets and validate data in NEAS until quotas are provided from the Chief of Naval Personnel (CNP). Up until the time for publishing the results, NETPDC works continuously to correct discrepancies using the Sailors’ Enlisted Advancement Worksheet (EAW).

“We try to clear as many discrepancies as we can,” said Updike. “We don’t want Sailors to get a profile sheet that says you don’t have any results because you still have a discrepancy in NEAS.” Educational Service Officers (ESOs) can submit discrepancy corrections for Sailors via the EAW Post-Exam Administration Change (PAC) in the Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System (NSIPS) after the worksheet is locked and data is sent to NEAS. The advancement results schedule is set by CNP. After publication of results, commands are authorized to frock Sailors to the next-higher pay grade. NETPDC then processes pay increments and sets advancement dates. Spring cycle advancements are incremented from July to December, with the majority of Sailors advanced in the final increment.

Similar to previous COVID mitigation exam cycles, E-4 candidates (except some rating entry Reserve Sailors) did not take an exam.

Rather, each E-4 advancement candidate will be given the same exam score when calculating their final multiple score (FMS) to establish a rank-order standing among peers. This means the E-4 rank order is mostly influenced by each Sailor’s performance mark average.

Because quotas are developed the exact same way, the advancement opportunity for E-3 Sailors is not impacted by the rank order without taking an exam.

“The primary goal of NEAS is that no Sailor is disadvantaged in the advancement processes, said Updike. “Another delay in our cycle results due to COVID is only acceptable when we know that every Sailor was given a fair opportunity to compete for advancement.”

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 NAC and the Resources Management Department.

Additional information about NETPDC can be found at https://www.netc.navy.mil/ NETPDC.

8 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, June 3, 2021

On iberty

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

A Tasty Tart This recipe is perfect for little ones wanting to get creative and perfectly place fresh strawberries on top of a delicious tart.

PAGE C4

Brett Dennen (COURTESY PHOTO)

OCEANFRONT CONCERT SERIES FEATURES NATIONAL BANDS From IMGoing VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.— The City of Virginia Beach and Beach Events present The Oceanfront Concert Series with over a dozen national recording artists this summer. The free shows will take place at 17th, 24th or 31st Street parks at the oceanfront.

The first round of acts confirmed for the Acts already confirmed for the series include: Blue Oyster Cult — June 16 — 17th Street Park Cracker — June 23 — 17th Street Park North Mississippi Allstars — July 7 — 17th Street Park Niko Moon — July 14 — 17th Street Park Brett Dennen — July 29 — 24th Street Park Blue Öyster Cult - Since 1972, Blue Öyster Cult has been traveling the world, bringing their unique take on rock music with them. The band was founded in the late ‘60s with members Eric Bloom (vocals, stun guitar), Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser (lead guitar, vocals), Allen Lanier (keyboards, guitar), and rhythm section brothers Joe Bouchard (bass, vocals) and Albert Bouchard (drums, vocals). With relentless touring, Blue Öyster Cult grew their fanbase, and scored their biggest hits with “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” and “Burnin’ for You,” both quintessential rock songs that remain popular to this day. Now nearing their fifth decade, Blue Öyster Cult is still “On Tour Forever,” playing shows to sold-out crowds in the United States and abroad.

Cracker - Cracker‘s tenth studio effort, the double-album entitled Berkeley To Bakersfield, finds this uniquely American band traversing two different sides of the California landscape

— the northern Bay area and further down-state in Bakersfield. Cracker has been described as a lot of things over the years: alt-rock, Americana, insurgent-country, and have even had the terms punk and classic-rock thrown at them.

But more than anything Cracker are survivors.

Cofounders Lowery and Hickman have been at it for almost a quarter of a century — amassing ten studio albums, multiple gold records, thousands of live performances, hit songs that are still in current radio rotation around the globe (“Low,” “Euro-Trash Girl,” “Get Off This” and “Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out with Me” to name just a few), and a worldwide fan base — that despite the major sea-changes within the music industry — continues to grow each year.

Niko Moon - Niko Moon is an adventurous artist, writer, and musician with an enduring optimism and a flair for challenging boundaries. That attitude is apparent in his new EP, a judiciously layered synthesis of his Georgia roots, pairing Atlanta-bred hip-hop and ruralfed traditional country, two genres that were considered incompatible not that long ago. The EP will be released later this year, but for a sneak preview, “Good Time” and “Drunk Over You” are available now. Moon’s artful persona is a mix of hooky melodies, shrewd wordplay and edgy, electronic beats. “There’s millions of people that are just like me, who are country people but want their country music to hit,” Moon muses. “I’m a country artist 100%, and I’m going to be a country artist. I just love to feel that hit in the chest, and that’s what I love about the Atlanta thing.”

Moon became a regular collaborator with Zac Brown, credited on five #1 Zac Brown Band hits: “Loving You Easy,” “Homegrown,” “Beautiful

Drug” and “Keep Me In Mind” — plus “Heavy Is The Head,” which topped the rock charts with Chris Cornell singing lead. “The only thing I’m really concerned with is: Does it make people feel good? Does it make them feel happy?” he says. “If the songs do that, then I did my job.”

Brett Dennen - Brett Dennen is telling us to get out and see the world at a time when we need it more than ever. Flame-haired, six-footfive, and with a singular gift for meditating on life’s most meaningful subjects with equal parts innocence and razor-sharp wit, you know Dennen from his decade-plus career as a singer/ songwriter. With a successful string of albums and four Top Ten AAA singles like “Make You Crazy,” “Wild Child,” and 2018’s “Already Gone,” which achieved his highest chart position yet, Dennen has cemented himself as a fixture in American folk music. In 2017, Dennen created the “Lift Series” and “Vacationer Series,” two annual tours wherein he combines shows in ski and beach towns with conservation initiatives and education in each locale. Dennen’s next release, See the World, is due out July 23rd on Mick Music.

North Mississippi Allstars - Shake Hands with Shorty made the North Mississippi Allstars one of the most celebrated roots acts around.

Over 23 years they’ve released ten studio albums, three of which were nominated for Blues Album of the Year Grammy Awards. More importantly, they’ve played countless shows in front of avid crowds, touring alongside Robert Plant, Patty Griffin, Mavis Staples, and John Hiatt, among many others. Their music is all inclusive: everyone is invited, the bar is always open, and drinks are on the house.

All shows will start with an opening act at 7:00pm. Park gates will open 30 minutes before showtime.

Labor Day Weekend will include multiple concerts Friday-Sunday with national headliners as well as top local and regional bands.

All shows will be free to the public.

The Oceanfront Concert Series will extend quality musical excitement across the entire summer rather than focus only on one weekend.

“When AMF was introduced 30 years ago, it was the first outdoor concert in Virginia Beach in decades and the first show of its type held on the sand along the East Coast,” says Beach Events Creative Director Mike Hilton. “Also, very few multi-day music festivals existed anywhere, so we were completely new to most people. Top recording bands loved to perform in the unique open-air beach setting.”

“The Oceanfront Concert Series will extend quality musical excitement across the entire summer along the boardwalk rather than focus only on one weekend.”

“No obit is needed for AMF.” Hilton says. “It’s simply evolved into a concert series more suitable for today’s music fans and resort guests.”

“Many of the world’s foremost bands performed at AMF. That legacy will continue in the new arrangement. Fans will enjoy national bands performing popular music of every style and genre.”

Many established Beach Events concerts and festivals will continue to be held on the sand such as the Virginia Beach Funk Fest Beach Party and Beach Music Weekend.

More concerts will be announced soon for July and August, and for Labor Day Weekend.

For more information on the Oceanfront Concert Series, and to check on future band confirmations, visit www.BeachEventsVB. com.

The new Oceanfront Concert Series is sponsored by the City of Virginia Beach and produced by IMGoing.

TCC Norfolk Campus welcomes the Visual Arts Center From Tidewater Community College HAMPTON ROADS, Va. — Tidewater Community College is moving all of its visual arts programming to Norfolk Campus.

For more than 25 years, 340 High Street has served as more than a building to TCC. For many students, faculty and staff, the Visual Arts Center (VAC) became a second home. The building held a growing community and provided many students with the opportunity to explore various art forms, find their own voice and express themselves.

As part of the next evolution of arts education at TCC, and to allow for growth and expansion of services to the community, the VAC has moved to the college’s Norfolk Campus.

Due to the move, there are currently fewer summer course offerings. However, regular course offerings will be available

for Fall Semester.

Faculty and staff offices have been moved to the Martin and Roper buildings on Norfolk Campus.

This summer, the following classes and resources will be offered in these locations: Library Martin Building, Second Floor Printmaking Roper 4306 Drawing Roper 4117 Graphic Design Martin Building 2202 Portfolio Prep Space Martin 2314 Students with questions regarding course offerings are encouraged to contact Academic Advisor Jennifer Barnes by emailing jcbarnes@tcc.edu or calling 757-822-1820.

The effective date for the Portsmouth location closing is June 30, 2021.

TCC Norfolk Campus (COURTESY PHOTO)

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Community Submit YOUR events, news and photos

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The Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. A brick Colonial house with a courtyard, and former home of Thomas Jefferson. (ISTOCK)

Colonial Williamsburg Expands Operations Following State’s Relaxation of COVID-19 Guidelines

From Colonial Williamsburg

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — Following the state’s lifting of COVID-19 regulations on Friday, May 28, Colonial Williamsburg will begin the process of reopening all of its sites, returning to normal group sizes and restoring the Foundation’s full roster of programming and hospitality offerings for guests.

The latest guidelines announced by Gov. Ralph Northam on May 14 end the state’s mask-wearing mandate and social distancing requirements for all fully vaccinated individuals — indoors and outdoors — across Virginia on May 28. One exception to this rule change is public transportation, which means that all guests will still be required to

wear masks on Colonial Williamsburg buses.

State restrictions on group sizes also end on May 28.

“These policy changes by our state leaders are a very positive development for Colonial Williamsburg, our guests and the Greater Williamsburg community. With the lifting of these restrictions, we can begin to thoughtfully and systematically reopen the remainder of our public sites, expand service in our hospitality operations and take other measures to meet the needs of our guests, donors and the surrounding community,” said Cliff Fleet, president and CEO of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.

With a priority on the health and safety of its employees, guests and volunteers, Colo-

nial Williamsburg is making the following operational adjustments starting May 28: • Ending the requirement that fully vaccinated individuals wear masks, whether indoors or outdoors.

• Beginning the process of systematically reopening all Foundation sites, returning to normal group sizes and restoring to a full roster of programming and hospitality offerings.

The end of the mask-wearing mandate applies to fully vaccinated employees as well as guests. However, any Colonial Williamsburg employee who wishes to continue wearing a mask may continue doing so if their job requirements allow it.

It remains Colonial Williamsburg’s policy

that guests who are not fully vaccinated must wear masks indoors and are encouraged to do so outdoors. Updated signage reflecting the changes to the Foundation’s mask policy will be placed in Colonial Williamsburg facilities over the next several days.

The Foundation’s programming teams are planning to open more public sites and expand programming, consistent with these policy changes. Sites reopening 5-7 days per week beginning on May 28 include the Gaol yard and numerous Historic Trades sites such as the Apothecary, Bindery, Cabinetmaker and Harpsichord maker, Foundry, Joinery and Silversmith. Visit colonialwilliamsburg.org’s planning calendar for a complete, up-to-date list of open sites and programming.

The health and safety of guests and staff is Colonial Williamsburg’s highest priority, and site operations and programming are subject to change to ensure compliance with state COVID-19 guidelines. Colonialwilliamsburg.org lists additional guest comfort and safety guidelines to provide the safest experience for guests, the general public and Colonial Williamsburg’s staff.

Coast Guard, partner agencies responding to sunken vessel on James River, Virginia From The United States Coast Guard NORFOLK, Va. — The Coast Guard and partner agencies are cautioning mariners and recreational boaters while transiting in the James River due to a sunken vessel causing a hazard to navigation, Thursday.

The channel is currently open with restrictions with the submerged hazard to navigation in position 37-25.348’N 077-23.936’W. Vessels with a draft of 20 feet or more are prohibited from transiting on the James River in Henrico, Virginia between Light 158 and Light 160 without permission of the Captain of the Port. All other vessels should use caution when transiting the area.

Coast Guard Sector Virginia watchstanders were alerted to the sunken vessel, Sanmar, after they received notification from Henrico and Chesterfield County Fire Departments of sheening on the water.

Sonar image depicting a sunken vessel on the James River in Virginia, May 27, 2021. (CHESTERFIELD COUNTY VIRGINIA MARINE TEAM)

To date, no recoverable product has been discovered and as of Thursday, no additional sheening has been observed along the shoreline.

The Coast Guard federalized the response and accessed the Oil Spill Liability Trust fund for pollution response.

A survey was conducted on Wednesday

and concluded that the 35-foot cabin cruiser is a hazard to navigation in the channel.

The Coast Guard, US Army Corps of Engineers, Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and other partner agencies are developing a salvage plan.

Currently, there are no correlating search

and rescue incidents, no known missing persons, or any signs of distress in the area.

Efforts are ongoing.

If anyone has any information about the owner of the vessel or has seen the vessel before, please contact the Coast Guard Sector Virginia Command Center at 757-483-8567.

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

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

Food

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Tolerate Hot Days with a Tasty Tart

By Culinary.net

Summer days can be long and boring, especially when the kids are out of school and there is nothing to do around the house as a family. When the minutes creep by and it’s too hot to go outside, the dog days of summer can be pretty miserable.

However, this recipe for a Strawberry Cream Cheese Tart can give the kids something to look forward to as a dish the whole family can participate in creating. This recipe is perfect for little ones wanting to get creative and perfectly place fresh strawberries on top of a delicious tart.

In a food processor, mix flour, sugar and salt until combined. Then add butter, an egg and vanilla extract. Mix again until combined.

Flour your working surface and create a dough ball from the mixture. Flatten it

slightly to form a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.

After time has passed, lightly flour your surface once more. Roll out dough into an 11-inch circle. Place circle on a 9-inch tart pan. Roll over the top to trim. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for about 30 minutes.

Prepare the tart crust for baking by covering it with aluminum foil then bake for 20 minutes. Wait for the crust to cool completely.

To make the filling, in a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, lemon zest and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread mixture onto cooled tart crust.

Microwave fruit spread and lemon juice while stirring often. Arrange halved strawberries on tart. Drizzle with fruit spread. Top with whipped cream before serving.

This sweet tart can brighten up your summer blues with fresh fruit, a sweet spread

and a flaky, crispy crust.

Find more sweet summer recipes at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Strawberry Cream Cheese Tart Servings: 8 Crust: 1 ¼ cups flour ¼ cup granulated sugar ¼ teaspoon salt ½ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes 1 large egg ½ teaspoon vanilla extract uncooked rice Filling: 8 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese ¼ cup sour cream 2 tablespoons extra-fine sugar 1 tablespoon lemon zest

½ teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup strawberry fruit spread 3 teaspoons lemon juice (optional) 1 pound strawberries, halved whipped cream (optional) Heat oven to 375 F. To make crust: In food processor, add flour, sugar and salt; pulse until combined.

Add butter, egg and vanilla extract; pulse until combined and crumbly.

Lightly flour surface then form dough into ball. Slightly flatten to form thick disc. Wrap dough in plastic wrap; refrigerate 1 hour.

Flour surface then roll dough to 11-inch circle. Place dough in 9-inch tart pan with removeable bottom. With rolling pin, roll over top to trim excess dough around edges.

Cover dough with plastic wrap and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes.

Press aluminum foil against crust, covering edges to prevent burning. Fill and distribute uncooked rice evenly. Bake 20 minutes.

Cool completely.

To make filling: In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, lemon zest and vanilla extract until blended and smooth. Spread cheese mixture evenly over crust. Refrigerate 1 hour.

In small bowl, microwave fruit spread and lemon juice, if desired, stirring often.

Arrange strawberry halves around tart.

Drizzle heated fruit spread over strawberries. Top with whipped cream, if desired.

salt, to taste pepper, to taste 4 eggs 4 egg whites ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese nonstick cooking spray 4 flour tortillas ¼ cup sour cream ¼ cup salsa 1 large tomato, seeded and diced 1 avocado, sliced hot sauce (optional) In large skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add red onion and red bell pepper; cook 8 minutes. Add black beans

and red pepper flakes; cook 3 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer to dish.

In medium bowl, whisk eggs and egg whites. Stir in cheese until combined. Heat large skillet over low heat, add egg mixture and scramble 3 minutes, or until cooked through.

Spread sour cream over tortilla. Spread salsa over sour cream. Spoon ¼ bean mixture over salsa. Spoon ¼ scrambled eggs over bean mixture. Top with diced tomatoes and avocado. Drizzle with hot sauce, if desired. Roll-up burrito. Repeat three times with remaining ingredients and serve.

Breakfast with a Powerful Punch

By Culinary.net

You know the feeling: You eat breakfast, but by 11 a.m. your stomach is growling. You feel like you just ate but somehow you’re hungry and craving something hearty and rich.

Switch up your breakfast habits with wholesome and filling Breakfast Burrito.

It’s got protein to keep you full, veggies for a touch of added nutrition and hot sauce to pack a powerful punch of flavor in every bite.

No more snacking between breakfast and lunch. This hearty breakfast bite will keep you full and bursting with energy until it’s time for your next meal. It’s easy to make in a matter of minutes and it’s totally customizable to accommodate every palate.

Made with beans, eggs and egg white proteins, it can help keep you energized and full until it’s time for lunch. The red onion, red bell peppers, salsa, tomatoes and avocado provide some fresh, nutritious vegetable options and the chili flakes and hot sauce bring the heat.

To make this burrito, start with canola oil in a skillet. Add red onion and red bell peppers then cook for 8 minutes. Add black beans, chili flakes, salt and pepper then stir.

Whisk eggs and egg whites in a mixing bowl. Add pepper jack cheese then scramble the egg and cheese mixture in a hot skillet.

On a tortilla, spread sour cream, salsa, the bean mixture, scrambled eggs, tomatoes, avocado and hot sauce, if desired. Roll

(COURTESY PHOTO)

up the burrito and it’s ready to serve.

Just like that you have a breakfast that is not only nutritious but equally as appetizing. Find more filling breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

If you made this recipe at home, use #MyCulinaryConnection on your favorite social network to share your work.

Breakfast Burrito Servings: 4 2 teaspoon canola oil 1 small red onion, diced 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

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

Health

For Heather Guntherberg, acting chief of pharmacy services at McDonald Army Health Center, in Fort Eustis, Virginia, yoga is a key element to de-stressing (Heather Guntherberg).

Service members share what works for them to relieve stress

By Claudia Sanchez-Bustamante MHS Communications

As part of the Military Health System’s efforts to promote mental health awareness, service members and staff from several military medical treatment facilities shared what works for them to relieve stress and maintain their mental health.

Heather Guntherberg, who holds a doctorate in pharmacy and is the acting chief of pharmacy services at McDonald Army Health Center in Fort Eustis, Virginia, said meditation and exercise are key for her.

“Cultivating the right perspective is the foundation for my day at home and in clinic,” she said. “In order to establish this, I begin and end each day in stillness with meditation. This allows me to make conscious decisions, set my intentions for serving others, and how I make nutritional choices. I also incorporate exercise and yoga daily.”

Ashley Lebrecht, a records management specialist at McDonald Army Health Center (AHC), is also a full-time working mom and a military spouse for whom stress can become a huge factor in daily life.

“A few years ago, I decided to set a designated ‘one-hour me time’ to myself to unwind and dedicate myself to exercise,” she said. “Some of the exercises I enjoy are lifting, running, yoga, or riding my stationary bike.”

She explained that taking that hour to herself allows her to focus on her goals, improve her mood, and shut out all other distractions for that hour.

“I have found that exercise has been the best way to relax my mind, body, cope with stress, and be able to live a longevity life,” she added.

For pediatrics care coordinator Maria Franzuela-Santiago, a registered nurse at McDonald AHC, faith is her go-to stress reliever.

“Life’s many troubles could intensify my depression and anxiety,” she said. “What works for me is relying on my Lord, Jesus Christ, to give me a prayerful and grateful reaction to his tests in my life, no matter how painful.”

For others, like Army Staff Sgt. Jacquie Zabala, an allergy and dermatology noncommissioned officer in charge (NCOIC) at McDonald AHC, maintaining a positive outlook and being optimistic are good stress relievers.

“I find that smiling every day and laughter makes me less stressed and able to handle anything,” she said. “Also, spreading laughter and joy helps me release built-up stress — staying positive and enthusiastic is what works for me.”

At Blanchfield Army Community Hospital (BACH), in Fort Campbell, Kentucky; Army Sgt. First Class Donald White, NCOIC of preventive medicine, stresses about life after the Army and setting himself up for success

in terms of finances, education, job requirements. But he enjoys multiple activities to help him de-stress. ”One is woodworking,” he said.

“Hearing the sound of the table saw cutting the wood makes me forget about all the issues around me and allows me to focus on one thing for a change, and I love to see the end product.”

He also enjoys playing games with his Army friends and spending time with family when he can.

“We love to go to the farmers market and walk the town, just anything to get out of the house,” he said.

His colleague, Army Staff Sgt. Jeannine Valencia, NCOIC of the patient administration division at BACH, feels stress when she is unable to meet weekly goals or when her mother and grandmother are away.

To relieve that stress, she enjoys activities including running, listening to music, spending time with family and her dog, and volunteering in the community.

“Running as I listen to my music playlist helps me focus on the path in front of me and minimizes any potentially stressful thoughts,” she said. “After the run I feel more head clarity and tranquility, and it allows me to think more clearly and organize my thoughts in a more pragmatic way.”

Navy Lt. Cmdr. Robert Hess, deputy chief of the pastoral care department at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, in Virginia, relies on

a work-life balance to prioritize his personal health and well-being. He attributes doing so to the mental health care he sought years ago to due to burnout, a heavy workload, stress, and anxiety.

“I was constantly tired, lacking energy, motivation, and a positive outlook,” he said. “Every day seemed a grind.”

Since he had grown up in a culture that elevated strength, independence, and a strong self-will to overcome, he was reluctant to seek help to avoid being seen as weak or fragile.

“Fortunately, through the encouragement of family and friends, I reached out,” he said.

“I spent a little more than a year with a mental health counselor who helped me lift the weight off my shoulders by examining underlying beliefs, motivations, fears, and anxieties that caused me to push myself so hard.”

He also learned helpful tactics and techniques to emotionally regulate, resulting in improved mental clarity and a better decision-making process and strategy, he said.

Today, he relies on practicing spiritual meditation, mindfulness, gratitude, sports and strength training, and being outdoors in nature to de-stress.

“For me, everything we think, say, or do impacts our spirit, our soul, our energy, so I try to meditate regularly on all things good,” he said. “When we don’t have seasons for rest and methods for stress relief, our bodies keep the score.”

For him, mental health treatment is vitally important. He wants others to know “you are not alone.”

“It takes considerable strength and courage to step up and ask for help,” he said. Doing so, “makes you a hero to yourself and to others who may also find life-saving help because of your valiant stand.”

How vision and hearing contribute to service members’ readiness

By Claudia Sanchez-Bustamante MHS Communications

“Readiness’ implies that a military service member can fulfill a mission from all aspects, including having trained properly to master the skills to undertake a given mission, as well as being in the right state of physical, psychological, and overall health.

Our senses have an important function in service members’ health and readiness. They are interconnected, meaning they work with each other to allow us to function, move, and communicate.

In the case of hearing and sight, for example, the two dominant senses work together to create the perception of what we experience in the world, according to Dr. Mike Pattison, program manager of readiness and operations optometry at the Defense Department’s Vision Center of Excellence (VCE) in Falls Church, Virginia.

“Studies involving sight have found that the visual cortex uses signals received from both the eyes and the ears when viewing the world,” he said.

Added Dr. Felix Barker, VCE’s director of rehabilitation and reintegration: “Vision and hearing guide nearly all human behavior - as two of our most important senses, they allow us to remotely sense opportunities and threats at great distances compared to other senses such as smell and touch.

“This ability extends to interaction with the environment at a safe distance,” he said. “A great example of this is driving, where vision and hearing enable us to safely move through our environment using technological solutions that greatly enhance our access to our world.”

Dr. Amy Boudin-George, a clinical audiologist at the DOD’s Hearing Center of Excellence, at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, said “our hearing allows us to listen to others, while our vision allows us to see their mouths, expressions, and gestures to help us confirm what they are saying.”

And, said Pattison, “where the visual input is unclear such as at dusk or in a dark building, hearing takes on a more prominent role.

Hearing helps us monitor our environment for potential threats or opportunities in directions other than where we are looking, which results in shifts in where we look when necessary.”

In fact, he said, “studies have found that the brain has to work harder to hear when we are not looking at what we are listening to.”

This is especially true with radio communications, which place all the emphasis on hearing, said Boudin-George.

In the military, this is important because hearing and vision are key to accurate situational awareness and mission success, allowing for coordination within a service member’s unit and other units and forces, she said.

“Service members must be able to recognize, identify and locate threats,” she said.

“In situational awareness, we rely on our hearing and vision to help us locate the sound source, identify a weapon or vehicle by sight or sound, and understand whether the sound is moving toward us or away from us.”

And the more we can use both vision and hearing, the more accurate we can be at those tasks, she said.

Barker calls this combination a “360-degree threat detection system” that can provide service members the “ability to acquire threats detected,” as well as “the opportunity to identify, engage and, when necessary, destroy the threats.”

Likewise, military operations rely on communication and observation technologies that can enhance service members’ sight and hearing, thereby extending their awareness and allowing them to take precautionary measures and enable overall mission success.

As such, it is paramount to maintain optimal vision and hearing as part of service members’ readiness.

“Vision readiness is an integral element of force health protection and operational readiness,” said Pattison. “Assessing vision and optical readiness as part of the Periodic Health Assessment ensures that warfighters are ready to deploy in a moment’s notice.”

Likewise with hearing.

“Monitoring hearing addresses the initial

Optimal vision and hearing are key elements to military readiness. Army Pfc. Damien Terrell, assigned to Viper Company, 1-26 Infantry, 101st Airborne Division, prepares for night vision training at Grand Bara, Djibouti (AIR FORCE TECH SGT. AMY PICARD).

ability to hear, but if an individual suffers temporary hearing loss during a mission, it can degrade the capability of that unit,” said Boudin-George.

“Units are only as strong as the weakest link,” said Theresa Schulz, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel with a doctorate in hearing science who serves as chief of HCE’s prevention and surveillance branch.

“For mission success, all members of a unit need their senses.”

The Department of Defense agrees. Joint Publication 4-02 Joint Health Services includes vision readiness and hearing conservation as critical functions of the force health protection initiative that the DOD strives to ensure as one of its most critical priorities.

This is a priority because the decreased ability to see, hear, and communicate properly could result in warfighters’ decreased survivability and lethality, according to Boudin-George.

Additionally, said Pattison, “when you consider the increasing use of technology in the battlefield, ensuring that a warfighter’s vision and hearing are optimized are becoming more critical in completion of the mission.”

When one of the senses is damaged, the body relies on the others to compensate for what’s missing, but it’s not optimal.

“The systems cannot do that perfectly,” said Boudin-George. “Studies done by the Army Public Health Center have shown that when hearing is impaired, even more advanced and experienced ground troops are less effective — their survivability does not necessarily decrease, but their lethality decreases markedly.”

To avoid this, protecting service members’ eyes and ears is key.

“Hearing and vision protection from approved DOD sources are absolutely essential for every service member,” said Barker. “This is true when in the field, in garrison, or even home if potentially hazardous activities are undertaken.”

For Pattison, the most important thing for service members to understand is that it’s not sufficient to “just get by” when considering their vision or hearing.

“It is important that they get routine eye care periodically from an eye care professional and not just their annual vision screening,” he said. “To operate in today’s military environment, it is important that they see the best that they can see.”

For hearing, said Boudin-George, “wearing properly fit hearing protection that is appropriate for the noise levels you are exposed to is key,” said Boudin-George.

“Hearing protection worn incorrectly is not effective.”

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

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

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LX, 4 door, 4 cylinder, auto, AC, cruise, tilt, power windows and locks, back up camera,44k miles, exc condition, $16,000, Call: 443-351-5611

HONDA 2015 CROSSTOUR

52K orig. mis., leather, sunroof, 4WD, new insp, loaded, cargo rack & tow pkg., showroom new, $19,900.

757-620-7570. Va. Dlr.

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HONDA 2018 HR-V

LX package, AWD, 34K mis., new insp, 1 owner, runs & looks great. $22,700. 757-675-0288. Va. Dlr.

TOYOTA 2000 LAND CRUISER

$14500 1Owner, Toyota Land Cruiser Wht w/beige int. 188,000 mi Ex cond, recent oil change, wiper blades, tune up, pwr str pmp, valve cvr gsk Newer tires, battery, Timing belt and water pump in last 50k. txt 843.290.0079

Wanted Automotive 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 USED TRAILER SALE!!!

OVER 100 Avail. For Boats 12’-38’ BUDGET BOATS: (757) 543 -7595

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