Flagship 11.18.2021 by Military News

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, November 18, 2021 1

IN THIS ISSUE

Health of Our Forces

While many recognize the consequences in a long term view, such as lung cancer and increased risk of a heart attack and stroke, what about short term affects? PAGE A2 VOL. XX, 28, NO. NO.45, XX,Norfolk, Norfolk,VA VA||ﬂagshipnews.com ﬂagshipnews.com

November 18-November 24, 2021

Virginia Wind Symphony performs for Veterans at JEBLC

The Virginia Wind Symphony performs a free concert at the Gator Theater on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Nov. 11. The Virginia Wind Symphony offered the free concert, titled “Courage to Serve”, to veterans as a way of giving back to the community of military members in Hampton Roads. (MC1 MADDELIN HAMM)

By MC1 Maddelin Hamm

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Virginia Wind Symphony (VWS) performed a free concert at Gator Theater on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Nov. 11. The VWS offered the free concert, titled “Courage to Serve”, to veterans past and present as a way of giving back to the community of military members in Hampton Roads. The lead conductor of the symphony is retired Navy Capt. Brian O. Walden, who served 35 years in many of the Navy’s elite bands. “We hope that it inspires them,” said Walden. “We hope that they understand that it truly is a tribute to them…we hope that they feel recognized and appreciated.” Walden acknowledged the challenging times that the world has gone through with the COVID-19

Pandemic, and expressed appreciation to JEBLC’s commanding officer and executive officer for welcoming the event on the base. He said the VWS has not performed in front of a live audience in 20 months, so this is a special event for them in many ways. “You know the military had to work twice as hard to get through this [pandemic], and we just want them to know that people in the community [who are part of VWS]...are doing this because they really love their community,” said Walden, who also serves as the band and music director at Old Dominion University. Sailors and Soldiers stationed on JEBLC attended the event as well as retired members of the military community. A Retired Senior Chief Boatwain’s Mate (SEAL) who served from 19661986 attended the show with two of his fellow retired shipmates, and said the show was a good way for past and

Retired Navy Capt. Brian O. Walden, the Virginia Wind Symphony conductor, directs a composition during a free concert at the Gator Theater on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Nov. 11. The Virginia Wind Symphony offered the free concert, titled“Courage to Serve”, to veterans as a way of giving back to the community of military members in Hampton Roads. (MC1 MADDELIN HAMM)

NEX locations closed Thanksgiving Day By Kristine Sturkie

Navy Exchange Service Command Public Affairs

V I RG I N IA BE AC H, Va. — Once again this year, NEX locations will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25, so customers and associates can spend the day with loved ones. NEX store hours on Friday, Nov. 26 will vary depending on location. “This year, more than ever, it is important to spend time with loved ones on Thanksgiving Day, whether you’re gathering in person or virtually,” said retired Rear Adm. Robert J. Bianchi, Chief Executive Officer of the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM). “NEXCOM’s seven business lines stand ready to support our deserving patrons throughout the holiday season — whether

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shopping at the NEX, staying at Navy Lodges and Navy Gateway Inns & Suites or keeping in touch with loved ones via our Telecommunications Program Office. On behalf of our 16,000 associates around the world, may you and your families have a very happy Thanksgiving holiday!” This holiday season, over 40 NEX locations are supporting the annual U. S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. Select NEX locations will have boxes to collect new, unwrapped toys through mid-December. The toys will be distributed as gifts to less fortunate children in the community. To support holiday gift purchases, the NEX return policy has been extended. Any item purchased through Dec. 11, 2021, at a NEX or online at myNavyTurn to NEX, Page 7

Regional Supply Office Oceana Scores Excellent on Supply Management Inspection By Thomas Kreidel

NAVSUP FLC Norfolk Public Affairs

Dot and Dash arrive at NEX Naples, Italy, ahead of the holiday season. Once again this year, NEX locations will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25, so customers and associates can spend the day with loved ones. (COURTESY PHOTO)

present servicemembers to come together. “It’s a common brotherhood and sisterhood, and allows us to reflect on our service in a positive way,” he said. The show featured nine compositions including the Star Spangled Banner, Reveille, and Courage to Serve. The VWS, organized in 1994 by Dennis Zeisler, is a wind ensemble made up of professional musicians, military musicians, public and private school teachers, and independent music instructors. The group was created to provide a musical outlet for musicians from throughout the Hampton Roads area and is dedicated to playing the finest original and transcribed wind literature available. For more information on VWS and upcoming shows visit their website at www.virginiawindsymphony.org.

NORFOLK — Regional Supply Office (RSO) Oceana recently passed their Supply Management Inspection (SMI). The bi-annual event evaluated how the RSO adhered to supply chain management and overall procedures while serving their mission partners by providing aviation supply support for 16 F/A-18 squadrons. According to RSO Oceana Supply Officer Cmdr. Kurt Welday, they prepared for the inspection by identifying previous SMI findings that required attention and established a series of internal weekly inspections to ensure continued compliance throughout day-to-day operations based on the latest SMI checklist that was released earlier this year. “These weekly self-assessments were instrumental in preparing program owners for each section with both face-to-face and virtual

discussions with the inspection team,” he added. “We were able to identify which data points we could preemptively upload to a shared network and which aspects would require in-person inspection.” Welday explained that this method allowed them to identify and correct any discrepancies in real time in accordance with the checklist. He added that communication and teamwork were important keys to their success, saying the entire group of Sailors, civilians and contractors from Aviation Support Detachment (ASD) and RSO Oceana played a role in passing the inspection. He cited Sadina Small, Reginald Thompson, Maureen Boyles and Roy Johnson from the Quality Assurance (QA) Team for their efforts. “Their outstanding dedication to the QA program is critical to our inventory accuracy, a metric that can make or break any SMI,” he Turn to Supply, Page 7

Saluting our Veterans

We Are MSC

NNSY

The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Veterans Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG) hosted the annual Veterans Day Fall-In for Colors Nov. 10, inviting the workforce and Sailors of America’s Shipyard to come together to celebrate our veterans and their contributions to our nation. PAGE A6

“My name is LT Westin Haddock, and I am a reservist with Navy Reserve Military Sealift Command Atlantic (NR MSCLANT) in Norfolk, Va. On my civilian job, I serve as a chief mate for the Great Eastern Group on a U.S Navy owned and operated training support vessel for Carrier Strike Group Four.” PAGE A4

Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) Strategic Framework is a tool for communicating the shipyard’s mission and vision statements. ts. It shows how initiatives executed across the command tie together with why NNSY exists. PAGE A3

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The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

Pennsylvania State University’s Research and Development Engineer Tony Naccarelli performs a particle check to see the amount of particles that are being created during the cold spray operation. (TROY MILLER)

MARS on the Go: Latest Test of the MARS System Onboard a U.S. Navy Ship for the First Time By Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs PORTSMOUTH, Va. — All generations grew up with robots in literature, film, television, theater and comics. Some of the unforgettable ones are Gort from The Day the Earth Stood Still; C-3PO, R2-D2 and BB-8 from the Star Wars franchise; T-800 from The Terminator franchise, Ash and Bishop from the Alien franchise; Robot from Lost in Space; and countless others. Well, there is a new robot in town and it recently conducted cold spray tests onboard a U.S. Navy vessel for the first time. The Multifunctional Automated Repair System (MARS) is a portable robot system that is capable of performing multiple repair operations including paint removal, grinding, ultrasonic inspections, and cold spray repairs. Developed and built by Pennsylvania

State University’s Applied Research Laboratory (Penn State ARL), the MARS platform is designed to be easily adaptable with multiple repair end effectors and allows the user, civilian and Navy personnel, to easily execute normal ship repair tasks with minimal training. The system is being vetted for its viability within a shipyard but also for use in an expeditionary or forward deployed environment. Penn State ARL approached NNSY to coordinate an opportunity to demonstrate the MARS system shipboard after a successful demonstration of the system at NSWC Port Humene Division (NSWC PHD). Unique from the previous demonstration, this evolution would be the first time testing shipboard cold spray for the Navy using a newly developed hatchable cold spray system. Currently NNSY is only performing cold spray repairs for ship components that are capable of being brought to the cold

spray facility in Bldg. 163. The NNSY team and Penn State ARL chose a test location on Ex-USS McKee (AS 41) that had specific features to allow testing of the MARS system upgrades as well as the cold spray repair system. With assistance from the Lifting and Handling Department (Code 700), the Mechanical Group (Code 930), and Temporary Services (Code 990), all the equipment was brought shipboard to support the demonstration. “We are conducting a demonstration and tests to see what it will take to bring the MARS system onboard a ship,” said Penn State’s Head of Material Science Division for Applied Research Lab Dr. Tim Eden. “We brought all the gear needed to conduct a variety type of repairs and used it onboard the McKee. This allotted us to see what obstacles were out there that we had to overcome like tight spaces, uneven bulkheads

Tobacco and the Health of Our Forces

By Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Tobacco comes in a variety of forms, from chewing tobacco, cigars, pipes, hookah, heat not burn products, vaping, nicotine pouches, and cigarettes…, then add all the various flavors and marketing, and methods to consume it. Add service members across the DoD and what do you get? A recipe for a health disaster and a question of military readiness! While many recognize the consequences in a long term view, such as lung cancer and increased risk of a heart attack and stroke, what about short term affects? “Service members who smoke or use tobacco products may also experience some loss of concentration and withdrawal symptoms as the effects of nicotine wear off,” says Dr. Mark Long, Public Health Educator at the Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center. The nicotine in any tobacco product readily absorbs into the blood when a person uses it. Upon entering the blood, nicotine immediately stimulates the adrenal glands to release the hormone epinephrine (adrenaline). Epinephrine stimulates the central nervous system and increases blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate. This includes smokeless tobacco products as well. “Smokeless tobacco is also not safe as some people replace or use this in addition to smoking because it may be easier to use in certain locations,” Dr. Long says. Smokeless tobacco products contain a variety of potentially harmful chemicals, including high levels of Tobacco-Specific Nitrosamines (TSNAs). There are also other cancer-caus-

ing agents in smokeless tobacco, such as polonium-210 (a radioactive element) and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These carcinogens are absorbed through the mouth and may be why several types of cancer are linked to the use of smokeless tobacco. Dr. Long adds, ““There are many resources and tools available to our service members who wish to quit smoking and tobacco use.” Some of the recommended resources he cites are: • https://smokefree.gov/ • https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/ tips/quit-smoking/index.html • https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/how_to_quit/index.htm YouCanQuit2 • https://www.ycq2.org/ NMCPHC Tobacco Free Living (offers Tobacco Free Living Resources) • https://www.med.navy.mil/Navy-Marine-Corps-Public-Health-Center/Population-Health/Health-Promotion-and-Wellness/ Tobacco-Free-Living/ “If a service member wants to quit, I would always encourage their effort,” says Long, “and regardless of the type, quantity, or duration I also believe it’s never too late to quit!” The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center (NMCPHC) develops and shapes public health for the U.S. Navy and Marines Corps through health surveillance, epidemiology and analysis, disease and injury prevention, and public health consultation. Learn more by going to www.nmcphc.med.navy.mil. Follow NMCPHC on social media at https://www. facebook.com/NavyAndMarineCorpsPublicHealthCenter http://twitter.com/nmcphc and https://www.instagram.com/nmcphc/

Editorial Staff Military Editor | MC1 Maddelin Hamm, maddelin.hamm@navy.mil Managing Editor | Ensign James Caliva, james.caliva@navy.mil Graphic Designer | Trisha Irving, trisha.irving@virginiamedia.com

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and deckplates.” During the weeklong demo, the team was able to test out the MARS system’s ability to cold spray, grind, plasma blast and ultrasonically test various components. Sailors from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) were invited to take part in the demo to get hands-on experience working with the MARS system and its controls to provide feedback to the team. Using the MARS system onboard a Navy vessel also gave the team a better perspective on the necessity to reduce the amount of equipment and make improvements to the existing equipment. “As we are transporting, carrying and installing the MARS system, we ask ourselves if this piece of gear or that piece of gear can become lighter and smaller and still perform at the same level, if not better, than the gear we are testing today. Anytime we can make a repair safer, faster and cheaper without losing any quality is a win,” said Submarine Pipe and Engineering Branch head (Code 265) Dan Stanley. There will be more testing and demonstrations in the future after Penn State ARL performs additional modifications to the MARS system and is ready to field the system. NNSY is gearing up for a hatchable cold spray system slated for arrival in early 2022. If MARS could speak like another famous robot, it would say “I’ll be back.”

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USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) departs Norfolk Naval Shipyard after completing its Planned Incremental Availability. (ALDO ANDERSON)

Dependable Mission Delivery Pillar and People Development Pillar Work Together to Improve NNSY in Meeting its Mission By Troy Miller

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

NORFOLK — Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) Strategic Framework is a tool for communicating the shipyard’s mission and vision statements. It shows how initiatives executed across the command tie together with why NNSY exists—to deliver warships. In order to bridge the gap between mission and vision, NNSY has identified four critical change agents—our pillars. These pillars are the highest priority strategic focus areas we must urgently work to improve. They are Infrastructure; Dependable Mission Delivery; People Development; and Process Improvement and Innovation. To have a table, one would need four table legs, or in the case of Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s

(NNSY) Strategic Framework four pillars. If one of those legs are removed, the table might not topple over, but it would not be as strong or stable as it once was before. Remove a second leg, mostly likely the table will fall over to one side, unable to put anything on the table. At the same time for the Strategic Framework, if one pillar is working hard without giving or receiving feedback from the other three pillars, this could cause the table to be lopsided, again unable to serve its purpose. This is why all four pillars need to work together as one team to support NNSY’s one mission. Although one pillar is no less important than another, the Dependable Mission Delivery Team (MPT) and People Development team relies on each other to support each pillar’s mission and ultimately, NNSY’s

mission. “People are the most important resource the shipyard has,” said NNSY’s Executive Director (Code 1100) and People Development Pillar team lead Fred McKenna. “But they would serve no purpose or achieve their full potential if we don’t train and develop our employees in their trade skill, leadership skills and character.” Modifications were made to NNSY’s New Employee Orientation (NEO) and First Level Supervisor training to better prepare employees to become a valuable asset in serving the shipyard’s mission. “Total Workforce Management Services (TWMS) required training was added to NEO to help knock out approximately half of their required training before the new employee steps foot on the project,” said Production Resource Department (Code

(MC3 LEO KATSAREAS)

900A) Analysis and Business Manager and Code 900 MPT coordinator Ursula Jones. “We also improved the First Level Leadership course to better prepare our employees on the waterfront.” The MPT collaborated with the People Development Team to provide input on the recommended changes to increase employee productivity on the waterfront. “Using metrics and valuable feedback, MPT provided us areas that needed improvement,” said McKenna. “They helped us to determine if the right people with the right skills are being hired. Additionally they can highlight issues if people are not getting enough support with their character and leadership training.” Some of the benefits of the pillar teams working together are creating stronger leadership to support NNSY; creating better processes and techniques to sufficiently complete first time quality work; and creating a better future for NNSY. “Working together just makes the pillars stronger as a person, as a team, and as a shipyard,” said Jones. “Although each pillar has their own focus areas, the one thing we all have in common is to meet NNSY’s mission of repairing, modernizing, and inactivate our Navy’s warships and training platforms.”

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We Are MSC: LT Westin Haddock By Lashawn Sykes

USN Military Sealift Command Public Affairs

NORFOLK, Va. — I am from a small town on the east coast of Florida called Merritt Island. The town is a true island, surrounded by two rivers, the Banana River and the Indian River that connect on the extreme north and south ends of the island. Merritt Island has extensive boating and waterman activities, which is where my love for the water came from. I went to the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y., where I was a member of the football team for four years and was an active member in the golf club. I received my coast guard Third Mate licenses and a bachelor’s degree in Intermodal Logistics and Transportation. Upon completing my time as a midshipman at Kings Point, I have been sailing for the last seven years as a deck officer for American Maritime Officers (AMO), Masters, Mates, and Pilots (MMP), and various private companies within the government contracted commercial industry. I commissioned in the Navy Reserve’s Strategic Sealift Officer Force upon graduating from Kings Point in 2014. I chose the military to follow in the footsteps of my dad. My dad served in the Air Force as an aircraft welder and worked closely with the 38th Air Rescue Squadron on various rescue missions during the Vietnam War where he spent a full year in country. Seeing his dedication to service and his love for this country made me want to do my part and serve our great nation. What is your name, title (both in the reserves and in the civilian world), and what role do you serve as a military staff officer with MSCLANT? My name is LT Westin Haddock, and I am a reservist with Navy Reserve Military Sealift Command Atlantic (NR MSCLANT) in Norfolk, Va. On my civilian job, I serve as a chief mate for the Great Eastern Group on a U.S Navy owned and operated training support vessel for Carrier Strike Group Four. What is your reserve unit’s name and mission, and how does your role in your current job assist with MSCLANT’s mission? My reserve unit’s name is Strategic Sealift Officer Force Individual Ready Reserve 2525M On my current job, I support MSCLANT’s mission by ensuring the fleet is provided with 24/7 logistics support for replenishment-at-sea coordination, which enables the fleet to remain properly supplied and on station for extended, uninterrupted periods. When did you join the MSCLANT staff, and what is unique about supporting the command?

I joined MSCLANT, Oct. 10, 2021. What’s unique for me is getting the chance to see the shore side detachment, working now with the people who I serve with and for in my civilian position with TSV — Training Support Vessel Squadron, crewed by a mix of civilian and contract mariners who use the vessel to create a realistic training environment that includes academic and live training in support of Carrier Strike Group FOUR (CSG 4) in Naval Station Norfolk. I am familiar with Composite Training Exercises, having supported COMPTUEXs on numerous occasions with underway exercises aboard TSV’s. Unfortunately, I’ve never witnessed the shore side coordination that is required to ensure the exercise reaches fruition. Now that I am a part of MSCLANT, I will be a better-rounded mariner, being familiarized with both sides of the operational equation. What types of jobs have you held with MSCLANT in the past and have those jobs always been as a military staff officer? In the past, I’ve worked for MSCLANT in other roles. In 2019, I was assigned to MSC Blount Island Detachment in Jacksonville, Fla, where I served as a cargo operations support officer, supporting the loading for prepositioned vessels. Once loaded, the vessels got underway to various prepositioned strategic locations. In your most recent assignment with MSCLANT, what hat did you wear, what role did you play, and what did a typical day look like for you? In my most recent reserve role, I served as a watchstander during CSG 8’s flag ship, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Composite Training Exercise (COMPTUEX). I was one of five NR MSCLANT reservists who received the call to support the Command Task Force 953 Watch Officer cell. More specifically, the role I played was working with MSCLANT Combat Logistics Force vessels and CSG 4 for coordination to ensure all exercise vessels were properly supplied with fuel and stores throughout the entire 18-day exercise. What is the best thing about being a reservist for MSCLANT? The best thing about serving as a reservist for MSCLANT is I will experience multiple opportunities to serve in a wide variety of fields that will afford me the chance to learn new trades and areas in which MSCLANT supports the U.S. Navy on a global scale. What is the most challenging part about working for MSCLANT as a reservist? The most challenging part is balancing my reserve requirements with my civilian responsibilities. My goal always is to ensure the reserve schedule lines up with my civilian underway schedule, especially

LT Westin Haddock is a reservist with Navy Reserve Military Sealift Command Atlantic (NR MSCLANT) in Norfolk, Va. (LASHAWN SYKES)

in regards to keeping up with the requirements in order to be eligible to serve. What is your most favorite MSCLANT memory at sea? My favorite MSCLANT memory at sea was during my time as a cadet aboard Henry J. Kaiser-class replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-AO 195). We had a great crew, and I truly enjoyed the work we did.

What would you tell a reservist who is interested in joining MSCLANT? As a new reservist providing support to MSCLANT, I recommend that you ask tons questions, get involved, and seek guidance from other reservists who have been in for a while and understand the process; so that, they can provide you with their guidance on the different avenues for providing support, both afloat and ashore.

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NSWC Dahlgren Division Employees Receive 2021 PEO IWS Awards By Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Public Affairs DAHLGREN, Va. — Four individuals and two teams from Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) received Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) Excellence Awards for their accomplishments in the last two quarters of the fiscal year. The third quarter awardees were formally congratulated during a presentation Oct. 21 while the fourth quarter ceremony takes place Nov. 18. The PEO IWS recognized Chad Finch — program director for the Mark 38 Modification 4 Gun Weapon System (GWS) — for his leadership and contributions to naval gunnery. The award citation reads that Finch’s “exceptional contributions advance naval gunnery by working to provide an affordable, safe, reliable, and effective minor caliber GWS, capable of defeating current and future surface and air targets.” The award also lauds

Finch’s implementation of agile processes that meet or exceed aggressive deadlines. Engineer Andrew Wyman was recognized for his impact on several 57mm ammunition efforts throughout the year and effectively leading multidiscipline test teams while navigating COVID-19 pandemic protocols. Wyman successfully planned and executed over $1 million of tests over the course of fiscal 2021. Technician Joseph Seal received recognition for his role in the successful development and integration testing of an undersea warfare combat system. Seal’s experience and insight contributed to the development of a novel, agile testing strategy. What’s more, Seal helped form a test program that enables system bugs to be identified “much earlier in system development compared to previous testing methodologies” and further increased agility. Seal’s citation makes note of his collaborative spirit and his unwavering dedication to his work. Paul Wingeart — program director for

the Gun Computer System (GCS) Mark (MK) 160 — received commendation from the PEO IWS for his strategic direction and expert management of a $36 million portfolio deployed across the Navy, Coast Guard and foreign military. The citation goes on to highlight Wingeart’s championing of agile development processes aimed at delivering timely capability across the fleet. Additionally, Wingeart was celebrated for leading his team through a trying 48-day build and installation process resolving software issues discovered during Naval Surface Fire Support certification training on a Navy destroyer. Shipboard Electromagnetic Compatibility Improvement Program Team According to their award citation, The Shipboard Electromagnetic Compatibility Improvement Program (SEMCIP) team received a group award for achieving “a major milestone with respect to high frequency intermodulation interference (HF IMI) testing onboard Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Freedom Variant ships.”

After extensive testing, the team identified several issues which contributed to the highnoise environment that prevented successful HF IMI tests. The determination of the problem areas and the subsequent mitigation efforts for the Freedom Variant ships will have a positive impact on the electromagnetic compatibility certifications of the ship class as a whole. The awardees from the Shipboard Electromagnetic Compatibility Improvement Program team are William Boatright, Christopher Goodman and Robert B. Nichols. LPD 28 Accelerated Software Installation Team The LPD 28 Accelerated Software Installation Team received a group award for their “herculean effort” in delivering and installing Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) software aboard a ship weeks sooner than originally planned. When challenged to come up with a way to effectively complete installation ahead of builder’s trials, the team of 11 reevaluated the processes in place. The team’s ability to assess their processes, find a more agile way to do business and deliver quality earned this award. Led by Software Support Agent for SSDS Pauline Owen, the team comprises Roberto Martinez, Phuong-Dung Nguyen, Richard Simpson, Victoria Hawley, Daquan Styles, Jamie Kempf, Gary Jason Hicks Eugene Tousignant, James Knarr and Mark Swift.

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Saluting our Veterans: Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s VETERG Leads Annual Veterans Day Fall-In for Colors By Kristi R Britt

Norfolk Naval Shipyard Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH, VA. — Each year, November 11th is observed as Veterans Day — a day to honor the Nation’s veterans and celebrate their responsibilities and achievements in protecting the freedoms of the American people. The Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Veterans Employee Readiness Group (VET-ERG) hosted the annual Veterans Day Fall-In for Colors Nov. 10, inviting the workforce and Sailors of America’s Shipyard to come together to celebrate our veterans and their contributions to our nation. “In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice or truce was declared between the Allied nations and Germany, marking the end of World War I,” said Command Sergeant Major (retired) Mathew Calhoun Sr., the guest speaker for the event. “U.S. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed that day as the first commemoration to honor the service members who fought in that war, it eventually evolving into the celebration we know of today as Veterans Day. Let us all come together on this special day to honor our veterans and their selfless courage together.” Calhoun Sr. then shared a personal story from his time with the U.S. Army, speaking of an individual in his command, someone he referred to as Specialist Smiley in respect of the individual’s family, whom would often come to him with ambition to join the elite company of soldiers on the ground in Iraq. After months of fighting for the chance, Calhoun Sr. finally provided Smiley the opportunity to join the team. “He was a stellar soldier,” he said. “We ended up in an extended deployment where Smiley continued to impress with his work ethic and motivation. Hard-working and dedicated to a fault, Smiley’s contributions to our country are still visible to this day.” He shared that Smiley and other soldiers in his convoy had fallen in the line of duty. While attending his funeral, Calhoun Sr. was escorted to the front of the church where 10,000 persons attended to honor Specialist Smiley. “His family came to me and shared letters he had written sharing who I was and

“Being in our nation’s armed forces provides a tremendous sense of camaraderie and teamwork, of serving a cause greater than ourselves as individuals,” said Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) Business and Strategic Planning Officer Cmdr. Lawrence Brandon during the annual Veterans Day Fall-In for Colors Nov. 10. (SHELBY WEST)

how important it was for him that I had given him the chance to serve his Nation in our elite company. My decision to give this man a chance led him to serve America to the fullest extent of his ability and character. He was doing what he felt he was born to do. I still struggle with his loss and the loss of many of our soldiers throughout our time. It is the sacrifices of our soldiers, some giving the ultimate sacrifice, that protects our freedoms. I salute all of our veterans, including those who have fallen, and our service members holding the torch for us now. Your efforts are seen and appreciated, all of us touched by your commitment to serve.” NNSY’s Business and Strategic Planning Officer Cmdr. Lawrence Brandon, who also spoke at the event, said, “Being in our nation’s armed forces provides a tremendous sense of camaraderie and teamwork, of serving a cause greater than ourselves as individuals. Whether in times of conflict or peace, so many have stepped up without a moment’s hesitation to dig deep and answer the call, sometimes even paying

the ultimate sacrifice, doing so with honor and leadership, and constantly exhibiting service before self. Our shipyard motto of ONE MISSION — ONE TEAM is a mindset many of our veterans have been practicing for years and even decades, working alongside their military brothers and sisters in pursuit of a vital and shared goal.” He continued, “When our nation needs us, our shipyard answers the call. That’s why it’s so vital we work every day as ONE TEAM in our ONE MISSION to repair, modernize and inactivate our Navy’s warships and training platforms to protect our Nation. We stand united as a team. Because whether you wear a uniform or not, one of the things that unites each of us here today is we all serve the United States Navy, more than 10,000 strong. Own that responsibility with pride and purpose, support your fellow teammates and invest in their success. I know from experience just how reliant our nation’s Sailors, Soldiers and Airmen are on the work we do in America’s Shipyard.”

Following the ceremony, Cmdr. Brandon hosted a cake cutting ceremony with Oscar Thorpe and Ernest J. Scott III, paying tribute to all veterans spanning generations and employed at America’s Shipyard. The cake cutting ceremony is a time-honored tradition in the military celebrating the past, present, and future of our Nation and those who serve to protect it. The NNSY VET-ERG is comprised of more than 300 NNSY employees that are either veterans, service members currently serving, or those who support the military. At NNSY alone, there are more than 3,000 veterans employed with more than 650 considered Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Wounded Warriors. “We strive to keep our members abreast of available veteran and military related resources available to our veteran and military communities,” said VET-ERG President Josh Wannemacher. For more information regarding the VET-ERG, email the VET-ERG Officer group at NNSY_VETERANS_ERG@navy.mil.

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, November 18, 2021 7

Navy’s HACKtheMACHINE Challenge Seeks New Ideas for Unmanned, Autonomous Tech By Warren Duffie

Office Of Naval Research Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. — Do you have a bold idea that might help the Department of the Navy (DoN) address some of its biggest challenges involving unmanned capabilities? Then sign up to participate in the HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned competition, which will be held virtually on Nov. 16-19. Register at https://register.hackthemachine.ai/. HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned is the first in a series of public-facing technology challenges aimed at accelerating discovery and teambuilding between the DoN, industry and academia for the creation of groundbreaking unmanned and autonomous systems. Sponsored by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), multiple naval program executive offices, and industry partners like Fathom5 and Booz Allen Hamilton, HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned builds on efforts by the Navy’s 2021 Unmanned Task Force to develop and integrate unmanned and autonomous technology at scale. Organizers are looking for military and civilian participants from all walks of life to solve digital, data and cyber problems; win up to $90,000 in prize money; earn contracts; and be dynamic, innovative parts of the DoN team. “Within the realm of unmanned and autonomous capabilities, ONR’s goal is to promote agility and find new solutions to warfighter problems,” said Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Lorin C. Selby, who will be one of the featured speakers. “HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned will further position ONR as the

hub of that innovation wheel—and educate folks who don’t normally work with the Navy about the types of challenges we’re facing.” NavalX, an extension of ONR, enables collaboration, the pace of discovery, learning and experimentation, and fosters the naval workforce’s capacity for innovation and agility. It gives Sailors, Marines and DoN civilians valuable tools for solving problems and translating ideas into actionable solutions. This helps naval organizations like ONR to better serve warfighter needs by connecting individuals promoting innovative ideas with experts who can experiment with those ideas, invest in them or help turn them into something tangible for the Navy and Marine Corps. HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned will showcase three challenge tracks to appeal to a broad range of talents and skill sets: —Maritime Cyber—Test the security of the Navy’s next-generation unmanned drone swarm autopilot systems in this bug bounty contest. —Data Science—Bring useful, battle-tested machine learning and artificial intelligence tools to the Navy by developing methods to sort good data from dangerous data in degraded environments. —Digital Engineering—Show the Navy how to create model-based definitions of requirements for wide-area search that can be tested against real system models in unmanned mission simulations. “ONR is leading the search for creative, bright, team-building collaborators and learners who know how to hustle and get things done,” said Dr. Jason Stack, ONR’s director for Ocean, Atmosphere and Space Research, and

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chair of the Intelligent Autonomous Systems Strategy Development Team. “HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned will enable naval leaders to connect with a new generation of technology talent from across the spectrum of the digital community,” Stack continued. “The virtual setting of this challenge provides an opportunity to rapidly

surface new ideas and approaches, along with the formation of new partnerships.” Those wishing to compete in HACKtheMACHINE Unmanned can sign up as teams or as individuals. Learn more at https://www. hackthemachine.ai/. Warren Duffie Jr. is a contractor for ONR Corporate Strategic Communications.

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explained. The inspection team agreed while noting, “Sample location audits and inventories indicated outstanding inventory accuracy, attesting to the highly effective processes and diligent cohesive efforts of control division, warehouse and inventory accuracy personnel. Meticulous recordkeeping and judicious control of financial and material resources were noted.” Welday said RSO Oceana is very proud of their performance during the SMI, particularly due to the challenges presented by COVID-19 mitigation efforts. The team narrowly missed scoring an outstanding with their grade of 94.68, narrowly missing the required 95 percent. “We came together as a team and brought home a big win,” concluded Welday. “That is a testament to the dedication and strength displayed by every single Sailor, federal employee and contractor at RSO and ASD Oceana.”

Exchange.com may be returned through Jan. 24, 2022. Purchases made after Dec. 11, 2021, may be returned or exchanged within the NEX’s standard 45-day return policy. Finally, once again this year, kids will be able to visit the virtual North Pole and see Santa Claus and his friends, Dot and Dash. Videos of Santa Claus and his friends will appear on the Navy Exchange Facebook and Instagram pages throughout the holiday season. More information on the NEX holiday season and holiday store hours can be found at myNavyExchange.com/WeBelieve/. To ensure patrons remain safe during the holiday season, all NEXCOM facilities continue to follow Department of Defense and Department of the Navy cleaning protocols, cloth face covering and social distancing guidance as it relates to COVID19.

from Page 1

adina Small conducts an inventory accuracy check at the Regional Supply Office Oceana warehouse. RSO Oceana recently scored an excellent on its Supply Management Inspection. (THOMAS KREIDEL)

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

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uarterdeck

Exercise in Red Sea Forces assigned to the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) began conducting a multilateral maritime security operations exercise in the Red Sea, Nov. 10. PAGE B6

Cmdr. Daniel Follett, left, commanding officer of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), and Capt. Dario Calabrese, second from the right, the naval attaché to Pakistan, cut a cake with members of the Pakistani Navy during a dinner reception aboard the guided-missile frigate PNS Shamsheer (FFG 252), Nov 9. (COURTESY PHOTO)

USS Pearl Harbor Visits Pakistan Marine Corps Maj. Pappy Boyington, a member of the Brule Sioux tribe, was awarded a Medal of Honor and a Navy Cross Medal for valor during World War II. (COURTESY PHOTO)

DOD Honors Native Americans and Their Many Contributions to the Nation

By David Vergun DoD Public Affairs

The Defense Department and the nation are celebrating National Native American Heritage Month, which is every November. It’s a time to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices Native Americans have made to the United States, not just in the military, but in all walks of life. A significant number of Native Americans have served in all of the nation’s wars beginning with the Revolutionary War. Twenty-nine service members of Native American heritage have been awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest medal for valor: 25 soldiers, three sailors and one Marine. About National Native American Heritage Month In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial commemoration, President Gerald Ford proclaimed Oct. 10-16, 1976, as “Native American Awareness Week.” In 1986, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed Nov. 23-30, American Indian Week.

On Nov. 14, 1990, President George H. W. Bush declared the month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month to honor the hundreds of Native American tribes and people in the United States, including Alaska but not Hawaii. Native Hawaiians and those in U.S. territories in the Pacific are honored in Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month each May. Bush’s proclamation reads in part: “During the National American Indian Heritage Month, as we celebrate the fascinating history and time-honored traditions of Native Americans, we also look to the future. Our Constitution affirms a special relationship between the federal government and Indian tribes and — despite a number of conflicts, inequities, and changes over the years — our unique government-to-government relationship has endured. In recent years, we have strengthened and renewed this relationship.” In 2009, President Barack Obama proclaimed the month as National Native American Heritage Month.

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However, DOD celebrates the month as Turn to Honors, Page 7

By U.S. Naval Forces Central

Command / U.S. 5Th Fleet Public Affairs

KARACHI, PAKISTAN — The amphibious dock landing ship USS Pearl Harbor (LSD 52), conducted a scheduled port visit in Karachi, Pakistan, Nov. 9-11. While in port, crew members had an opportunity to rest in a designated liberty area and participated in several community relations activities. The community relations events included a cricket game between U.S. and Pakistani forces, dinner receptions aboard the Pakistani Navy’s guided-missile frigate PNS Shamsheer (FFG 252) and Pearl Harbor, as well as an opportunity for U.S. service members to volunteer at a local school. Upon completion of the port visit, U.S. and Pakistani naval forces conducted a passing exercise. “Over the last few days, we have had the privilege of conducting a port call in Kirachi, Pakistan,” said Capt. Daniel A. Follett, commanding officer of Pearl Harbor. “We also had the unique opportunity of operating with our Pakistani partners at sea. Not only does this enhance our partnership, but provides future opportunities for interoperability.” Pearl Harbor is part of the USS Essex Amphibious Ready Group currently deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses approximately 2.5 million square miles of water and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The expanse is comprised of 20 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal, and the Strait of Bab al Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.

Unknown Heroes, Public Thanks

By DoD Public Affairs

For the first time in nearly 100 years, members of the public walked on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Plaza and laid flowers to personally honor the unknowns The event is one of many at Arlington National Cemetery marking the centennial of the tomb, the grave of three Unknown Soldiers and a symbolic tribute to the memory of all U.S. service members through history. Families with small children and other civilians, veterans and service members all stood in line for the opportunity to approach the sacred space, many offering prayers or salutes in addition to flowers. Turn to Thanks, Page 7

Visitors participate in the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Centennial Commemoration Flower Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia Nov. 9. (ELIZABETH FRASER)

The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

Heroes at Home

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Idealism vs. Reality: The truth about military life By Lisa Smith Molinari I’m a hopeless idealist. This may sound like a humble-brag, but this particular personality trait can be a burden. I tend to have unrealistic expectations for myself, places, things, and humanity in general. So, when reality hits, I’m often disappointed. As soon as an idea pops into my head, I begin visualizing. When it finally materializes before me, my active imagination has already built it up into something fanciful. And I’m left to cope with reality. For instance, when our family received orders to England, I imagined us living in a 17th Century thatched roof cottage surrounded by blackberry brambles and honeybees, à la Peter Rabbit. Instead, we spent two months holed up in dreary RAF Molesworth base lodging watching cooking shows on AFN. We eventually moved into a charming village; however, my storybook fantasy was dashed every time I faced life’s eventualities: Mad Cow Disease warnings, male strippers at the local pub, the English penchant for instant coffee, my otherwise pretty English neighbor’s rotten front tooth. Years later, when my husband, Francis, went on a yearlong deployment, I imagined myself dressing the kids up in red, white and blue, and waving tearfully from the pier as his ship departed, the band onboard playing “Anchors Aweigh.” Instead, we kissed good-bye next to

a bagel kiosk at the Norfolk Airport before he disappeared into the security screening line with a plastic baggie of toothpaste and shampoo. When we PCSed to Germany, I planned frequent travel trips so our kids could experience Europe. Despite many incredible destinations, I focused on the imperfections marring my fantasies. Garbage floating in Venetian waterways. A McDonalds on the Champs Elyse. A “Made in China” sticker on a Tuscan souvenir. A German man scolding me for a bad parking job. Admitting that the expensive cheese we bought in Belgium smells too weird to actually eat. After many years of unfulfilled expectations, my tendency to idealize turned into susceptibility to self-doubt My mind was not to be trusted. If I felt really good about someone or something, I must be wrong, I thought. Recently, a friend’s young-adult daughter was seeking my perspective as a long-time military spouse. Her best friend was dating a Westpoint grad with two years left of his active duty service commitment to the Army. “They’ve been dating long-distance for about a year, and she thinks he should get out. He wants to go special ops, but she doesn’t want to move away from her family and friends, only to be left alone when he deploys.” Instinct kicked in, and I blurted, “Your friend sees her boyfriend’s military service as a threat to her familiar world, but she has no idea what military life has to offer.” In rapid-fire succes-

sion, I rattled off the many reasons I’ve loved military life. “There’s adventure … bonding between military spouses… pomp, circumstance, honor, and patriotism … strength and resilience from being challenged … a sense of true belonging and community … unparalleled camaraderie.” I went on and on until I ran out of breath. The next day, I was getting ready for our town’s Veterans Day ceremony, when my selfdoubt crept in. “Did I give someone really bad advice because I’m too idealistic?” I wondered. “Is my vision of military life a self-justifying, starry-eyed cover for the harsh realities experienced by those who serve?” At our town’s Memorial Park, Francis joined the group of vets behind the podium, each one garbed in mementos of their military days. “My experience in the service has proven to be incredibly significant in my life,” a 70-something vet said into the microphone. A band played “Eternal Father, Strong to Save”, flowers were floated in the bay, riflemen shot a salute, 100 flags waved, and little old ladies wiped away tears. I shed a tear, too. My instincts were right. When it comes to military life, I’m no idealist. My heartfelt pride in our 28-year military marriage are borne, not of unrealistic expectations, but of real-world experiences. Despite the inevitable moments of inconvenience, hardship, disappointment that come with military service, I’ll always be thankful for having been a military spouse.

Keeping Your Children Safe By Military Onesource In many ways, parenting is a lot like a military job — it’s a 24/7/365 commitment. As a parent, you are balancing the elements of your life with your child’s needs, and it can be tricky to manage. Your work, your relationship with your partner, even daily tasks, like laundry can make it challenging to be ever-present for your children. At the same time, you know that any lack of attention, including leaving a child alone at home, in the car, in the bathtub or in a public area, such as a playground creates a higher risk for childhood injuries and even a tragedy. Here are a few important ways to help keep children safe. Four safety wins for military parents Your first job as a parent is to keep your child safe. That is often easier said than done, as anyone who’s had a toddler bolt into a busy parking lot will tell you. Consider these safety tips to take your parenting game to the next level: • Arrange for supervision. To ensure your child is safe when you can’t be around, consider military child care options, including the child development centers, family child care homes, school age care programs and youth centers on your installation. You can also utilize community-based child care programs offered through the fee assistance program known as Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood, or MCCYN, and military-affiliated programs, such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America, serving youth ages 6-18, and the Armed Services YMCA. The Department of Defense is also proud to offer an expanded child care service to help meet the growing and diverse needs of military families. Through Military OneSource, parents can now access a nationally recognized caregiver database to search for hourly, flexible and on-demand child care. For more information about the online caregiver search service and to register, visit the Military OneSource Expanded Hourly Child Care Options page. • Eliminate home hazards. Childproofing your home is more than just covering electric outlets and installing cabinet latches. Nearly nine million children are treated for unintentional injuries in hospital emergency departments each year. For families who move a lot, it can be tough to remember just how many things pose a danger to chil-

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dren. The most common hazards include: - Unsecured firearms — Every day, approximately 20 children in the U.S. are hospitalized for gun-related injuries. Keep firearms in a gun safe and store ammunition separately. - Medications, vitamins, personal care products and household cleaners — Most poisonings occur when parents or caregivers are home but are not paying attention. Keep potential poisons out of reach. -Water — A child can drown in just a few inches of bath water. Never leave a young child alone in a bathtub, and secure toilets and other sources of water in your home. - Climbing hazards — Bookcases, dressers and TVs can easily fall on children attempting to climb them. Secure furniture with brackets or straps. Place furniture away from open windows too. - Hot stoves — Keep the handles of pots and pans turned inward and out of children’s reach and be aware of where your children are when you’re using the stove. Use back burners when possible to make pots and pans inaccessible. - Unsafe bedding — Accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed is one of the primary causes of sudden infant death. Keep your infant’s bed clear of stuffed animals, pillows, crib bumpers and soft bedding. If you live in a cold climate, talk to your pediatrician about the safest way to keep your infant warm in bed.

• Power down your electronic devices. There are about a million things going on in the life of a parent from one moment to the next — grocery lists, job tasks, social media and nonstop “breaking news.” Technology has made it easier than ever to multitask, but it’s also made it easier to lose focus on your children. Electronic distractions can rob us of precious time and attention needed to keep children safe and healthy. Remember that too much attention to the cellphone or TV can be a distraction from the supervision your child needs. Children know when they have your full attention, and it will make them feel important and loved. Plus, studies indicate that parental use of media is a strong predictor of child media habits. Find tips on healthy device habits and powering down technology and for both you and your children and establishing a family media plan. • Reach out to your community. The military community is also a parenting community. Chances are, a lot of the people in your unit, your job and in your chain of command are parents too. Reach out. You may be surprised by the tips you’ll get from neighbors, co-workers or child care providers. Before using any tip, be sure it makes sense for you and your child. Check out MilParent groups and more resources for parents or read up on ideas for how to connect with other parents or help a MilParent you know.

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www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, November 18, 2021 3

Sailor Donates Admiral Joseph “Jocko” Clark Memorabilia to Cherokee Nation By MC2 Ellen Sharkey

Naval History and Heritage Command Public Affair

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Members of the Navy and the Cherokee Nation came together Nov. 12 at the Army Navy Club in Washington D.C. to remember and honor proud Sailor and Native American, Adm. Joseph James “Jocko” Clark. Born in Pryor, Oklahoma, Nov. 12, 1893 Adm. Joseph James Clark, or “Jocko” as he preferred to be called, was the son of Cherokee Indian William A. Clark and Lillie Berry Clark. He first attended the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College before going on to attend and graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy, class of 1918. He was the first Native American graduate of the Naval Academy. During World War I, he served at sea and was engaged in convoying troops across the Atlantic. After the war he remained at sea, serving on two different destroyers and later taking command of the destroyer Brooks (DD-232). In 1925, he became a designated Naval Aviator and served with aircraft squadrons, later commanding Fighting Squadron 2-B of USS Lexington (CV 2), eventually going on to become the Air Officer of that carrier. After various rotations through other commands, he returned to the United States in 1945, and in 1952 was designated Commander, 1st Fleet in the rank of vice admiral. In 1953, he was transferred to the Retired List of the U.S. Navy and was advanced to admiral on the basis of combat citations. During the ceremony, Vice Adm. Jeff Trussler, a Cherokee Nation citizen who currently serves as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare (N2N6) and as the Director of Naval Intelligence, presented a naval cruise book that once belonged to Adm. Clark to Kimberly Teehee, the Cherokee Nation Delegate-designate to Congress, who accepted the cruise book on behalf of the Cherokee Nation. Upon presenting Clark’s cruise book to the Cherokee Nation, Adm. Trussler reflected on the significance of the event and the day. “I am honored to represent the U.S. Navy at this event to honor the memory and career of a true Navy Warfighting hero of World War II… Admiral Joseph James “Jocko” Clark, said Trussler. “The timing of this ceremony couldn’t be any better as it coincides with our annual commemoration of National American Indian Heritage Month. Coincidentally,

today also happens to be the anniversary of the Admiral’s birth: November 12, 1893. His life and career of service to our Navy and our nation are worth remembering - he set the standards for those of us who share that heritage and who have followed in his footsteps.” In 2015, Lt. Cmdr. Michael Zampella took an interest in Clark when he first discovered a portrait of the Admiral on eBay, and along with a group of naval officers, purchased it with the intention of donating it to the Army Navy Club in Washington D.C., where Clark was a member. “From my days as an undergraduate at St. John’s College in Annapolis, I am familiar with the long history of the U.S. Naval Academy and its distinguished graduates like Adm. Clark,” said Zampella. The sale also included a chest of Clark’s papers, photos and memorabilia with the agreement that the naval officers would find a suitable place to donate them to. Zampella later acquired Clark’s cruise book from his flag command aboard USS Yorktown (CV-10) and retained it for an eventual donation to the Cherokee Nation. “I am glad this cruise book will reside in an honored place to inspire future generations and serve as a reminder of the Native American’s warrior spirit which is woven into the American soul,” said Zampella. Adm. Clark’s cruise book will reside at the Cherokee Nation Veterans Center so that future generations may look back on this fearless leader from naval history and remember the years of service he proudly gave to his country. NHHC, located at the Washington Navy Yard, is responsible for the preservation, analysis, and dissemination of U.S. naval history and heritage. It provides the knowledge foundation for the Navy by maintaining historically relevant resources and products that reflect the Navy’s unique and enduring contributions through our nation’s history, and supports the fleet by assisting with and delivering professional research, analysis, and interpretive services. NHHC is composed of many activities including the Navy Department Library, the Navy Operational Archives, the Navy art and artifact collections, underwater archeology, Navy histories, ten museums, USS Constitution repair facility and the historic ship Nautilus. For more news from NHHC, visit www. history.navy.mil.

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) turns into the James River as it gets underway. Ford departed Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding and returned to sea for the ﬁrst time since beginning its post-shakedown availability in July 2018 to conduct sea trials. (COURTESY PHOTO)

NAVSUP Liaison Officers provide critical link for end-toend lifecycle logistics By Russell Stewart

Naval Supply Systems Command Public Affairs

MECHANICSBURG, PA, — Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Liaison Officers (LNOs) are the primary point of contact between NAVSUP and four Maritime Program Executive Offices (PEOs) and two Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) directorates. Serving as logistics and supply chain advocates within both organizations, they ensure alignment and standardization of effective life cycle sustainment policies, processes, and tools. They assist NAVSUP in its role as Navy’s end-to-end supply chain integrator, with more effective planning and execution for acquisition and sustainment programs, while advancing the overall logistics and supply chain competency across all PEOs and NAVSEA. “Our LNOs are high impact, knowledgeable supply chain experts,” said Rear Adm. Pete Stamatopoulos, commander, NAVSUP. “They work in a very complicated operating environment providing key support to PEOs and NAVSEA to protect and improve Navy’s end-to-end maritime supply chains and lifecycle logistics.” Key LNO functions include engaging across a product’s life cycle to standardize processes, ensuring the fielding of sustainable and cost effective systems, and supporting consideration of all integrated product support elements in each phase of product design and acquisition. This requires LNOs to develop impactful engagement strategies and maintain high fidelity communications across NAVSUP, PEO and NAVSEA commands, as well as with Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Secretary of the Navy staff, Fleet, Type Commanders, and other stakeholders. LNOs collaborate with and support a wide variety of mission partners to identify and resolve supply and life cycle sustainment issues and gaps, focused toward enhancing Fleet warf-

ighter readiness. “NAVSUP LNOs are an integral part of our team for the Ford program,” said Kevin Cormier, deputy program manager, PMS-378, Ford-Class Program Office. “Being embedded with a program office that is delivering new capability provides the LNOs with a unique view of how the senior levels of NAVSEA operate, and synchronize NAVSUP efforts accordingly.” In the spring of 2019, NAVSUP N51 was Fleet and Warfare Integration Division Director Capt. Blake Kent and his Deputy Charla Fridley, and they reimagined the NAVSUP Liaison Program to be more agile in elevating tactical challenges into strategic level focus areas. The goal was to drive more effective unity of effort between NAVSUP and NAVSEA to improve material availability in support of new construction, modernization and repair of vessels. LNOs enthusiastically embraced the new direction and set out building and maintaining communications and relationships within their host organizations and across the whole of NAVSUP. “Having a NAVSUP LNO within PEO USC has been tremendously helpful to keep us informed of NAVSUP initiatives, and align program sustainment objectives for better coordination and discussion of efforts across the board,” said Rear Adm. Casey Moton, program executive officer for Unmanned and Small Combatants (USC). “I think the program facilitates an open channel that ultimately saves us time and provides efficiencies to better serve the Fleet.” The new team of NAVSUP LNOs was established and positioned at PEO Aircraft Carriers, PEO Integrated Warfare Systems (IWS), PEO USC, PEO Ships, NAVSEA 04S (Industrial Operations) and NAVSEA 21 (Surface Ship Maintenance and Modernization). They were hired to operate as the NAVSUP Commander’s direct representatives and to promote communications and transpar-

ency back to NAVSUP from host commands. LNOs maneuver freely within and between commands, engaging at the flag, senior executive service and senior leader levels focusing on high-value improvement initiatives of mutual benefit. “The NAVSUP LNO has been instrumental in establishing the appropriate level of logistics support to some of most critical technologies on the Ford program. In each case, the LNO was able to short circuit the communication valley that inherently exists between organizations because of their unique understanding of both NAVSEA and NAVSUP program goals, operating procedures, and chain of command. Issues are solved in a much quicker manner because they are addressed at the right level, in the right area of the organization,” explained Cormier. By proactively engaging, LNOs create synergies, facilitate information exchange for supply chain-related issues, and provide insights and expert advice to PEOs and NAVSEA. Their efforts support life cycle sustainment plans and life cycle support concepts. LNOs synchronize operations to ensure alignment between commands, furthering the expeditious delivery and affordability of systems. This requires a deep understanding of both supported and supporting commands’ processes, culture, operating styles, and organization, which enables them to be seen as the resident expert and a conduit between both organizations. “Being an LNO provides tremendous opportunities to shape the future of sustainment across the fleet,” said Drew Brown, NAVSUP liaison officer to PEO USC. “Working with DASN staff, NAVSUP senior leaders, NAVSEA admirals, and executive directors allows me to influence strategic objectives to better align organizations toward the common goal of improving access to whatever it is they need at the right time to accomplish the mission.”

Individual LNO successes can have a wide area of effect. As an example, NAVSUP LNO Becky Coleman led a cross-cutting team in taking a strategic look at the MK-110 gun weapon system across 11 organizations. Together, they identified supply chain support issues of the gun mount installed on Coast Guard National Security Cutter, Offshore Patrol Cutter, Littoral Combat Ships and future installations on the new Constellation class frigate. The review identified over 3,000 new provisioning candidates, resulting in updated parts availability, increased access to contractors, and identification of maintenance significant parts. Since the NAVSUP LNO program was reinvigorated, an ongoing marketing campaign reinforces the LNOs’ new role so mission partners see them as strategic assets to advance the mission and ensure alignment and integration. NAVSUP 041, the Maritime Strategic Engagement and Weapons Platform Integration Division led by Capt. Troy Gronberg and Charla Fridley, continue to promote the LNOs’ role and swarm highvalue initiatives such as Naval Sustainment System-Supply (NSS-Supply), NSS-Shipyard, and Strategic Supplier Management relations. Their relentless pursuit of improved supply chain processes and policy with PEOs and NAVSEA are setting weapon systems up for long-term sustainment success. “The NAVSUP LNOs provide critical and time-sensitive logistics and supply support to mission partner PEOs and directors in support of NAVSUP goals and in alignment with NSS-Supply priorities,” said Mark Wheeler, NAVSUP LNO to PEO aircraft carriers. The NAVSUP LNO program continues to add value to NAVSEA and the Navy with two new LNOs who will soon be assigned to PEO Strategic Submarines (PEO SSBN) — formerly PEO Columbia — and PEO Attack Submarines (PEO SSN) — formerly PEO Submarines. NAVSUP is headquartered in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and employs a diverse, worldwide workforce of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel. NAVSUP and the Navy Supply Corps conduct and enable supply chain, acquisition, operational logistics and Sailor & family care activities with our mission partners to generate readiness and sustain naval forces worldwide to prevent and decisively win wars. Learn more at www. navsup.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/navsup and https://twitter.com/navsupsyscom.

NMCCL welcomes home EMU10 from deployment By Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune Public Affairs CAMP LEJEUNE, NC — Naval Medical Center welcomed home personnel deployed with Expeditionary Medical Unit (EMU10) Nov. 10. Sailors and officers with EMU-10 deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. NMCCL Commander and Director Navy Captain Reginald Ewing thanked the teams for their diligence and hard work during the deployment. “I am beyond proud of the success of this team. You should be proud of you do each and every day here and as you translate that to the mission downrange,” Ewing said. As part of EMU-10, personnel provided advanced trauma, life-support care and prepped patients for evacuation to higher levels of care. After nearly nine months, families and friends were able to gather and hug their loved ones.

Naval Medical Center welcomed home personnel deployed with Expeditionary Medical Unit (EMU-10) on Wednesday, November 10, 2021. EMU10 was deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. (COURTESY PHOTO)

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, November 18, 2021 5

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) arrives at Guam for a port visit Nov. 11. The arrival of Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group marks the ﬁrst time that a carrier strike group with the advanced capabilities of the F-35C Lightning II and Navy CMV-22B Osprey have visited Guam. (COURTESY PHOTO)

Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Conducts Port Call in Guam By Lt. John Lobkowicz

USS Carl Vinson Public Affairs

NAVAL BASE GUAM, Guam — Ships assigned to Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group arrived at Naval Base Guam for a scheduled port visit on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11, 2021. USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) and USS Stockdale (DDG 106) will resupply, conduct maintenance, and provide the crew time for rest and relaxation in the strike group’s first port call since visiting Yokosuka in early September. “Guam has been welcoming and is a steadfast supporter of U.S. strike groups operating in the region,” said Rear Adm. Dan Martin, commander Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1. “Our crews are thankful to have this level of support after many weeks

at sea and are looking forward to honoring veterans alongside the local Guam community. Our Sailors deserve this break and I am proud of their continued resilience and operational acumen as our strike group worked tirelessly alongside our regional partners and allies.” Due to COVID-19 concerns during the ship’s visit to Yokosuka, this is the first time during the deployment that the crew of USS Carl Vinson will be authorized off base liberty. “The men and women aboard our ship have worked diligently since we left home and their efforts have paid great dividends toward enhancing maritime security and regional stability in some of the most heavily navigated shipping lanes of the world,” said Capt. P. Scott Miller, commanding officer of USS Carl Vinson. “We are grateful for a chance to enjoy the hospitality and

beauty of Guam which has been a home away from home for many Sailors throughout the years.” The carrier strike group began its scheduled deployment August 2, and since arriving in the Indo-Pacific, has conducted operations with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Indian Navy, Royal Australian Navy, Royal New Zealand Navy, the Royal Navy, Royal Canadian Navy and the Royal Netherlands Navy. The deployment marks the first time the “Air Wing of the Future” has been embarked with a U.S. strike group. Carrier Air Wing 2 is the first deployed U.S. air wing capable of advanced lethality and combat readiness with the addition of the F-35C Lightning II and the CMV-22B Osprey. Led by Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1, U.S. Navy units visiting Guam include aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70);

Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57); Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale (DDG 106) of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 1; and nine squadrons of embarked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2. CVW-2 consists of an F-35C squadron, the “Argonauts” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 147; three F/A-18E/F Super Hornet squadrons, the “Bounty Hunters” of VFA-2, the “Stingers” of VFA-113, and the “Golden Dragons” of VFA-192; the “Gauntlets” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 136, operating the EA-18G Growler; the “Black Eagles” of Airborne Command and Control Squadron (VAW) 113, operating the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye; the “Titans” of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30, operating the CMV-22B Osprey; the “Black Knights” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4, operating the MH-60S Seahawk; and the “Blue Hawks” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 78, operating the MH-60R Seahawk. This marks the first time that a carrier strike group with the advanced capabilities of the F-35C Lightning II and Navy CMV-22B Osprey have visited Guam. For more news from CSG-1, visit www. dvidshub.net/unit/CVN70

VFA-81 Participates in the Centennial Commemoration for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier By MC3 Samantha Jenkins

Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. — Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 81, the “Sunliners”, participated in a flyover for the National Veterans Day Observance at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, Nov. 11. Aircraft from every service, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Coast Guard, participated in the flyover. VFA-81 represented the U.S. Navy with the F/A-18E Super Hornet. “I think it’s awesome for VFA-81 to represent the Navy,” said Lt. Cmdr. Brad Tribley, a pilot attached to VFA-81 that is participating in the flyover. “Especially as a unit getting ready to deploy. I think its great opportunity to get to represent carrier aviation and naval aviation. “ Established on Nov. 11, 1921, this year marks the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier centennial. The tomb is a final resting place for America’s unidentified World War I service members, and unknowns from later wars were added in 1958 and 1984. “We have been honoring the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for 100 years now and it shows how this country respects its veterans,” said Lt. Tim Walsh, a pilot with VFA-81. The ceremony that is taking place will replicate the World War I Unknown Soldier’s funeral procession from 1921. It will include a joint full honors procession, and the flyover has been added for an element of current military rituals. While VFA-81 was selected to be the

“Arlington, Virginia, USA, A US Army soldier at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (The Tomb of the Unknowns) in Arlington National Cemetery. The Tomb is guarded 24-hours a day and 365-days a year.”

representatives of the U.S. Navy for this event, the aircrew and pilots volunteered for the task. “It’s a huge honor. I can’t imagine a

better way to honor veterans and my fallen Marines that are buried there,” said Walsh. He was a prior fleet marine force hospital corpsman who has friends buried in

Arlington National Cemetery. To learn more about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier visit https://www.army. mil/tomb/.

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

U.S. and Regional Partners Conduct Maritime Security Exercise in Red Sea By NAVCENT / U.S. 5Th Fleet Public Affairs Forces assigned to the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) began conducting a multilateral maritime security operations exercise in the Red Sea, Nov. 10. The five-day exercise includes at-sea training aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland (LPD 27) focused on visit, board, search and seizure tactics. The training will enhance interoperability between participating forces’ maritime interdiction teams.

“It is exciting to see U.S. forces training with regional partners to enhance our collective maritime security capabilities,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of NAVCENT, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “Maritime collaboration helps safeguard freedom of navigation and the free flow of trade, which are essential to regional security and stability.” The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab-al-Mandeb.

The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27) transits the Paciﬁc Ocean. (MC2 WILLIAM PHILLIPS)

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The two-day ceremony opened Nov. 9 with remarks, performances and offerings from representatives of the Crow Nation — an echo of 100 years earlier, when Crow Chief Plenty Coups participated in the Nov. 11, 1921, interment service for the first Unknown Soldier. The flower ceremony was to end with the same benediction given by the first Army chief of chaplains in 1921. Volunteers provided flowers to people who did not bring their own. Cemetery offi-

cials said the flowers would be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way, with some being saved for historical purposes. Walking next to the tomb is a privilege otherwise given only to the sentinels of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, known as “The Old Guard,” who have maintained an around-the-clock vigil at the site for decades. The Tomb Guards themselves traditionally lay flowers at the tomb as an offering of respect when they perform their last walk. The sentinels continued their vigil during the flower ceremony, though they changed their traditional position, walking on the east side of the tomb to allow the public access.

National American Indian Heritage Month, following the name specified by a joint resolution of Congress, Public Law 103-462, of Nov. 2, 1994, according to Army Staff Sgt. Raul Pacheco, a public affairs noncommissioned officer at the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida. “There are over 574 federally recognized American Indian tribes and not all agree on what term is most appropriate,” he said referring to the name American Indian or Native American in the heritage month title. In 1995 a Department of Labor survey was conducted, which asked American Indian members their preference on how they desired to be called. That survey showed a split with about 49.76% preferring American Indian, 3.5 % Alaskan Native and about 37% preferring Native American. Others in the survey preferred other terms such as First Indigenous People, Original Peoples or had no preference. Pacheco noted that the number of tribes also tend to grow each year as additional ones acquire Bureau of Indian Affairs recognition. Some Interesting Facts • Those who claim to be American Indians in the active duty force as of July of this year, number 14,246, or 1.1% of the total force, according to the Defense Manpower Data Center. • In 2020, the American Indian and Alaska Native population of 3.7 million

accounted for 1.1% of all people living in the United States, compared with 0.9% or 2.9 million in 2010. An additional 5.9 million people identified as American Indian and Alaska Native and another race group in 2020, such as White or Black or African American. Together, the American Indian and Alaska Native alone or in combination population comprised 9.7 million people, or 2.9% of the total population in 2020, up from 5.2 million or 1.7% in 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. According to the bureau, the large population increase from 2010 to 2020 can be attributed to improvements in origin and race questions and improvements in the way the bureau codes survey responses. • The National Museum of the American Indian was added to the Smithsonian Institution’s museums on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. in 2004. It includes exhibits of Native Americans from every state, including Hawaii, as well as exhibits of indigenous peoples worldwide, but primarily in the Western Hemisphere. • The National Native American Veterans Memorial honors American Indians, Alaska natives and native Hawaiian veterans who have served in the armed forces since the Revolutionary War. It is located on the grounds of the National Museum of the American Indian and was unveiled on Veterans Day 2020. • In 1924, Congress enacted the Indian Citizenship Act extending citizenship to all U.S.-born American Indians not already covered by treaty or other federal agreements that granted such status. The act was later amended to include Alaska natives.

8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

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JOURNEY TO THE STAGE The Broadway National Tour of Anastasia kicks of the Broadway In Norfolk Series at Chrysler Hall this weekend

Kyla Stone (Anya) and The Company of The North American Tour. (JEREMY DANIEL)

Interview Conducted By Yiorgo SevenVenues is delighted to announce the return of their Broadway In Norfolk Series at Chrysler Hall and what a better way to start then with the critically acclaimed Broadway production of “Anastasia” this weekend November 19th-21st. For more info go to https://www.sevenvenues.com/events/detail/ anastasia The Broadway In Norfolk Series continues with the Tony Award-winning musical comedy “Hairspray”, the return of Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning hit musical “Jersey Boys”, the immersive, concert-style theater show “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” and the season closes with the return of “Wicked” in September 2022, rescheduled from the 201920 season. Also rescheduled is “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” that will play in February 2022. Subscriptions are on sale now at https://www.sevenvenues.com/ events/broadway-in-norfolk Yiorgo: I was delighted to talk recently with Gerri Weagraff, who plays Dowager Empress in “Anastasia”. Gerri, why should people come and see Anastasia? What will they experience and see? Gerri Weagraff: This show is a feast for the scenes. It is set in the historical backdrop of the Romanov family, the story of the legend of Anastasia Romanov. It is a musical that

Gerri Weagraff (Dowager Empress) and Kyla Stone (Anya). (JEREMY DANIEL)

was in part inspired by an extremely popular 1997 animated film and it has something for everyone young and old. It astounds the audience with gorgeous music, dazzling costumes, big dance numbers, lovable characters and it features these movie-like video projections that

are just incredible to see. It makes the audience feel like they can see everything from: the fiery violence of the Russian Revolution, to escaping on a train, to Paris in the 1920’s, the Eiffel Tower, fireworks and so much more. It has adventure, mystery, comedy, romance, how

could you not love it? Everybody will absolutely fall in love with this show. Also, coming back after the pandemic, “Anastasia”’s theme of hope and how we all want to get back to normalcy, that aspect of it is just so meaningful. The show itself and the storyline has so much hope in it as well. You can look at some of the lyrics that Anastasia sings like: ‘Don’t give up hope’, ‘Come what May’, ‘One step at a time’ and ‘One hope the another’. Y: What is “Anastasia” about? GW: At its heart, “Anastasia” is a story about a woman who is searching for her identity. She has amnesia and is experiencing flashes of bits and pieces of her memory while she feels the need to search for someone in Paris in the 1920’s. Meanwhile, there are these two lovable con men who want to find a girl, give her enough information to pass her off as Anastasia Romanov to the surviving grandmother, because the grandmother is offering a reward for Anastasia’s return. The entire Romanov family is executed in the Russian revolution in 1918, so there is mystery, there is a Russian officer who is pursuing Anastasia because his father was one of the officers at the execution and he is trying to finish the deed of his father. The grandmother, the Dowager Empress, who I play, is hoping that Anastasia may have Turn to Anastasia, Page 3

Chrysler Museum of Art Transforms Gallery into a Dark and Glittering Cosmos From Chrysler Museum Of Art NORFOLK, Va. — Lauren Fensterstock’s The Totality of Time Lusters the Dusk, on view at the Chrysler Museum of Art Jan. 15—June 19, 2022, invites visitors to come face to face with a dark and ominous cosmic landscape. A black comet—encrusted with a dazzling mosaic of glass, crystals, and stones including onyx and hematite— hovers at eye level and bursts through a collection of dark clouds; rain falls in streams of glass and crystal beads, pooling on the ground into puddles of reflective black Plexiglas and surrounded by an earthy black landscape dotted with paper plant forms. This installation is the first in Fensterstock’s newest body of work, which reflects how humans have manipulated the natural world to express their cultures, views and values. Her works explore how weather and celestial activity have been used as a metaphor, which is an especially potent idea in our current age of extreme weather and changing climate. Although this new direction came before COVID-19, the foreboding and destabilizing beauty of Fensterstock’s work takes on additional meaning amidst the devastating global pandemic. The Totality of Time Lusters the Dusk was originally commissioned by the Smith-

sonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery for its 2020 invitational exhibition Forces of Nature. Fensterstock was one of four artists selected for the Renwick Invitational, a prestigious biennial series that aims to introduce the work of exceptional artists who are established in their respective craft fields yet are worthy of greater recognition. The installation was meant to be on view at the Renwick Gallery June 2020—Feb. 2021, but the exhibition was delayed and then open for only a short time due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are thrilled to bring this mesmerizing installation to the Hampton Roads region,” says Carolyn Swan Needell, Ph.D., the Chrysler Museum’s Carolyn and Richard Barry curator of glass, “Lauren Fensterstock’s work is a brilliant combination of minute detail and great scale, and her work invites the viewer to look closely and think deeply about the role humans play within the earthly and cosmic landscapes.” Trained as a metalsmith, Fensterstock creates tactile sculptures and large-scale installations that are labor-intensive and materially seductive. She uses techniques that have long histories in the fields of craft and decorative arts, techniques that are also often called “women’s arts.” This Turn to Chrysler, Page 3

Lauren Fensterstock (American, b. 1975), The Totality of Time Lusters the Dusk (Installation Detail View), 2020, Glass, Swarovski crystal, quartz, obsidian, onyx, hematite, paper, Plexiglas, wood, cement, lath, and mixed media. (IMAGE COURTESY OF THE SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM AND CLAIRE OLIVER GALLERY, PHOTO BY RON BLUNT)

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Campbell checking the vitals of a military working dog during a ﬁeld exercise in Texas. (COURTESY PHOTO)

TCC honors military veterans on Veterans Day

By Laura J. Sanford

Logan Campbell is one of the thousands of students who came to Tidewater Community College to train for a new career after serving in the United States Armed Forces. Campbell, 32, spent a decade in the U.S. Army as a veterinarian technician caring for military working dogs, horses and other animals. He is pursuing a General Studies degree to prepare to enter the college’s Radiography program. “When I was looking for schools, I could have chosen any college up and down the Eastern seaboard. I selected TCC because of the high pass rates for radiography grads,” he said.

Campbell’s transition to college life was eased by support from TCC’s Center for Military and Veterans Education where staff helped him navigate veterans’ services and apply for the Post 9/11 GI Bill. His decade-long work in the Army began at Lackland Air Force in Texas where all military working dogs are trained. He continued at Fort Carson in Colorado caring for more dogs, horses and even some Falcons that are mascots of the Air Force Academy. “I loved my career in the Army and enjoyed patient care with our animals. From critical care work to surgery, there was always something new to learn,” he said. Campbell’s last mission was a joint

humanitarian tour with the U.S. Navy, followed by an assignment as the senior vet tech on the veterinary surgical team in Seoul, South Korea. When he returned to the states, he left the military and was working as a vet tech at Tufts University. He got moved to diagnostic imaging and was supervising radiography techs when he discovered that his skill set could lead him to a new career. “From the start, I found a passion for imaging and with the competitive pay, it was a no-brainer to make the switch,” he said. While at TCC Campbell has maintained a 3.87 GPA and is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, the honor society for

two-year schools. He is also involved with the Student Veterans of America chapter at TCC. “There is very much a culture shock coming out of the military and being a civilian again. Having a network of people to talk with and support you has made a big difference for me,” he said. Campbell added that returning to the classroom in his 30s has gone more smoothly than he imagined. “I’ve been well supported on my journey,” Campbell said. “My professors put out a lot of information each class and prepare us well for exams.” In his free time Campbell spends time with his girlfriend Lexi and their rescue animals including a Belgian Malinois, a military working dog reject turned family pet, as well as four cats, a couple of snakes and a parrot. TCC welcomes close to 8,000 veterans and military-related students on its campuses. In fact, one-third of TCC’s student body are veterans and their families. To find out more about TCC and its program and services for veterans, email enroll@tcc.edu or call 757-822-1111.

Virginia Film announces 2021 Virginia Screenwriting competition winner By Virginia Film

RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Film Office has announced the three winners of the 2021 Virginia Screenwriting Competition, an annual event founded in 1989 as a way to promote Virginia’s in-state talent and give exposure to aspiring screenwriters. The winners and their screenplays are Rachel Weatherly (Richmond) for Take Off, Daniel Pulido (Falls Church) for Children of All Ages, and four-time winner Neil Harvey (Roanoke) for Herald, a television pilot episode. The Virginia Screenwriting Competition was created by the Virginia Film Office to celebrate the accomplishments of Virginia writers, as well as to promote the future of filmmaking in Virginia. It provides screenwriters with a forum for their work and an opportunity to present their scripts to decision makers in the film industry. Four years ago, the competition began accepting hour-long pilot episode submissions as a reflection of the changing content-creation landscape. The competition is one of the few in the nation requiring no entrance fee. Wellknown past winners include Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul creator Vince Gilligan, who won in 1989 for his screenplay Home Fries and went on to produce with frequent competition judge Mark Johnson; and winner Megan Holley, who won for her screenplay Sunshine Cleaning. Virginia Film Office director Andy Edmunds acknowledged the winners in front of an audience of moviegoers and

Pictured L-R: author Beth Macy, showrunner Danny Strong, and moderator Ted Johnson (Deadline) discuss ‘Dopesick’ following the screening at the Virginia Film Festival. (PHOTO BY ÉZÉ AMOS, COURTESY OF THE VIRGINIA FILM FESTIVAL)

filmmakers at the 2021Virginia Film Festival in Charlottesville on Saturday, October 30, prior to a screening of Virginia-filmed Dopesick, followed by a discussion with showrunner, writer and producer Danny Strong (Empire) and author, producer and writer Beth Macy. 2021 VIRGINIA SCREENWRITING COMPETITION WINNERS Rachel Weatherly (Richmond) TAKE OFF (Feature Film). After defaulting on her student loans, a baggage handler recruits a group of airline workers to help

her rob a flight of its precious cargo and use it to pay off her debts. Neil Harvey (Roanoke) HERALD (Television pilot). Part comedy, part drama, HERALD show follows various reporters, editors and photographers for a large Virginia newspaper across two decades, as they work to cover news, even as their industry undergoes profound changes. Daniel Pulido (Falls Church) CHILDREN OF ALL AGES (Feature Film). CHILDREN OF ALL AGES, tells the story of a girl who runs away from an

abusive home, joins a dysfunctional circus, and must overcome her fear of heights to save her newfound family with the help of a fortune-teller, a clown, and a monkey. Note: Daniel Pulido was unable to attend the screening and announcement event. The Virginia Screenwriting Competition is held annually and is open to Virginia residents. Most of the script must take place in Virginia or at locations that could reasonably be filmed in Virginia. For further information on the competition visit www. filmvirginia.org.

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, November 18, 2021 3

Norfolk, Virginia as well. As part of the Broadway In Norfolk Series, “Anastasia” is the ﬁrst show of the season for us. You know, the beauty of live performances is just that, live and something unexpected is bound to happen. Can you share a funny story? GW: One funny story that happened a few weeks ago was with me and Kyla Stone who plays Anya/Anastasia. We have this incredible, powerful scene together in the second act. We call it the Recognition Scene. It’s a very key scene, in fact our director calls it the 11th o’clock number. It’s a term used in musicals, it’s usually a cathartic song that happens toward the end of the show, a show stopping song. This scene that we have toward the end of the second act, our director calls it our 11th o’clock number even though there is no song in it, because it is such a transforming moment. So at the end of the scene, we embrace in this incredibly emotional moment and then immediately in the blackout, we both have to run stage right for an extremely quick costume change. It’s the moment when she gets into the iconic red dress. In the embrace, our wigs got stuck together and normally she runs ahead of me because she has four people helping her in this change. In the blackout she whispers, “We’re stuck.” With our heads stuck to each other, we shuffled to the right and literally we were crying laughing during the quick change. If the audience saw anything, hopefully they

were thinking, oh look how cute they are walking arm and arm, head to head. Y: Where were you born and what made you fall in love with musical theatre? GW: This is truly a theatre family story. I was born in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. I watched my parents perform in community theatre when I was growing up and I loved watching them in it. When I was 16, a couple of high school friends of mine convinced me to try out for a local production of “Fiddler on the Roof ”. That’s when the bug bit me, I absolutely fell in love with musical theatre and did all the high school musicals. I didn’t think I could make a career in it, so I majored and got a degree in Spanish. Eventually, I did get a Masters degree in theatre. I continued to do theatre constantly. In my college years during the summer, I did about half a dozen shows with a youth theater group called Upper Darby Summer Stage. That is where Tina Fey got her start. The founder of the Art and Theatre in Philly got his start there. Monica Horan who is married to Phil Rosenthal who created Everybody Loves Reymond got her start there. It is a nationally renowned, amazing group founded by Harry Dietzler in 1976. I took a break from theatre. My first career was radio broadcasting. Through the 1980’sI worked in various radio stations in New Jersey and Delaware. Eventually I left broadcasting and became a Public Relations Director for 20 years for a non-profit organization. Y: You have been in more than 100

theatrical productions and “Fiddler on the Roof” has been so pivotal in your life. Can you talk about what that play means to you? GW: The town of Anatevka and the life there, my grandparents lived that life. I’m Jewish and my grandparents on my mom’s side were from Poland and dad’s side from Lithuania and they grew up in those types of villages. They made their way over in the 1920’s. My grandfather actually always wanted me to sing to him the song ‘Far From The Home I Love’ from “Fiddler on the Roof ”. So, in 1986 my parents had been doing some stuff with the Swarthmore Players Club in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania and I auditioned for a “Fiddler on the Roof ” production. My mom got cast as Yente, I got cast as Tzeitel and this guy named Paul Weagraff as Motel. Long story short, we started dating, got married, had two kids, got both kids involved with theatre and we became known as the Von Weagraffs of Delaware. A friend of mine gave us that nickname and it has stayed with us since then. And then of course, I got cast in “Fiddler on the Roof ” National Tour in 2010. Y: When you are not touring, you have been performing at The Candlelight Theatre in Delaware for 34 years. Tell us about it. GW: I knew about The Candlelight Theatre because my parents had taken me there when I was younger. It is a dinner theatre. In 1987, I auditioned for Oklahoma and Iended up getting the role of Laurey, the romantic lead. In 1988 we did “Fiddler on the Roof ” there. I was Tzeitel and Paul who by then was my real life husband played Perchik. We eventually moved to Delaware in 1989 and purchased a house that was five minutes away from The Candlelight Theatre. We loved it there and we kept doing shows there. With our whole family, our son Jordan and our daughter Rebecca, over the course of a 10 year span, the four of us did almost 20 productions together. And that does not count the shows where we did shows together, but not the whole family at the same time. I also volunteer as their Public Relations person. Y: What is their upcoming production? GW: Their Holiday show runs from November 20th to December 22nd and it’s an original adaptation. It’s called “A Christmas Carol by Candlelight’’. Act I is a condensed version of “A Christmas Carol” and Act II is a musical Holliday Review. People can go to Candlelighttheatredelaware.com for more info. Y: Last question, what has been a wow, pinch me moment in your career? GW: When I was on the National Tour of “Fiddler on the Roof ” for two years, the first year of the tour we were in southern California in the LA area and one of our cast members lived in the area. Her neighbor was Dick Van Dyke. He actually came to a cast party at the cast member’s house. We sang ‘Tradition’ for him and he came to see the show when we did it. That was one of those moments of I just can’t believe that happened. Yiorgo is an arts, entertainment and sports writer. A stage, TV and movie actor, he is also a sports entertainer, educator, motivational speaker, writer, storyteller and columnist.

of events marked by extreme natural conditions, which were believed to be the result of divine intervention: the deluge that necessitated Noah’s ark, plagues of locusts, skies with multiple suns, stars falling from heaven and snow in summer. One image—a fiery comet appearing at the time of Muhammad’s birth over the city of Constantinople—serves as a key reference for The Totality of Time Lusters the Dusk. Needell notes that Fensterstock’s signature all-black color palette “trains our eyes to see objects and details in a very different way, giving viewers a unique path to reflect upon the overall meaning of the work.” Fensterstock’s work demands close looking, with its dense surface patterns and shiny dark surfaces that throw glimpses of light. The artist says that the highly decorative surfaces of her sculptures “highlight the beauty of a world that may at times be indifferent to us, but is nonetheless beautiful in its complexity.” She harnesses the various material elements in her works to refer to scrying, a practice that uses dark and reflective surfaces to see visions of the future. “With so much turmoil on the ground, I’ve turned my eyes to the sky for wisdom. Moody storms.

Ominous comets. Dying stars,” comments Fensterstock. “Weather events and celestial sightings are a historically rich location for the projection of human anxiety, hopes, and fears.” This artwork was commissioned by The Renwick Galleries of the Smithsonian American Art Museum for the 2020 Renwick Invitational, on loan from Claire Oliver Gallery, NY and the Artist. Programming Family Day: Earth Day Every Day! Saturday, April 23, 2022 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Free Bring the whole family to celebrate the beauty and fragility of our planet and connect art to the science of climate change. Make crafts from recycled materials, explore the galleries with a scavenger hunt and participate in story readings throughout the day. Learn how you can be part of protecting the Earth and exercise your voice as a young activist! Supported by the Bunny and Perry Morgan Family Fund. Sponsored by Dominion Energy. Artist Talk with Lauren Fensterstock Sunday, May 1, 2022

3 p.m. | Kaufman Theater | Free Join us for an engaging talk with sculptor and installation artist Lauren Fensterstock. Her current installation, The Totality of Time Lusters the Dark is on view in the Glass Project Space. Learn about her techniques and multifaceted inspiration which ranges from climate change andscrying to early literary sources. Fensterstock’s beautiful and ominous vision of the future is a rallying cry for activism and an artist’s encouragement to linger and look closely at the artwork. Chrysler Book Club: Oryx and Crake Sunday, May 8, 2022 3 p.m. | Free Margaret Atwood is a master of dystopian visions that feel plausible and not too distant. Oryx and Crake is the first book of the MaddAddam Trilogy that explores a world where we are invited to navigate a transformed urban landscape into an almost unrecognizable wilderness in the aftermath of a plague. We will find points of connection between this science fiction novel and Fensterstock’s apocalyptic vision where that transcends heavenly and earthly realms.

Anastasia from Page 1

escaped and is still alive. Y: Can you talk about your audition process? GW: I have a fascinating connection to this stage musical. In 2017, “Anastasia” premiered on Broadway. Sissy Bell, my son’s girlfriend at the time, was in the original production of “Anastasia”. They met in 2014 in the national tour of Elf and they have been together ever since, he proposed to her this year and she is her fiancé. So “Anastasia” is a big part of our lives. We saw “Anastasia” in September of that year. I loved the show so much and the role of the Dowager Empress. I have the distinct memory of saying out loud, ‘I would love to play that grandmother role someday’. I felt it was so suited to my type. I saw a casting call in March, for the second National Tour right before the pandemic shut everything down. It was March 11th, 2020 and everything was happening in person. I requested an audition, went up to New York, did the audition and then everything shut down. On my callback, the casting company asked me on March 18th to submit by video two scenes and two songs of the Dowager Empress. The process was then put on hold for more than a year and I put it out of my mind. In April of this year, they reached out again, the process started, I went to a final callback in early July and two weeks later I got the offer. My dream came true. Y: The National Tour just started October 19th. What was that process like and what was opening night like for you? GW: We started rehearsing September 20th at a studio, no costumes or sets, in New York City for two weeks. It was exciting. We worked very closely with our tour Director Sarah Hartman, with Director Darko Tresnjak who directed “Anastasia” on Broadway, with our music supervisor Tom Murray who was with “Anastasia” on Broadway. We also used the choreography from Broadway. We are using the Broadway’s team vision. Also, we had the composer of the music, Stephen Flaherty, come to one of our final rehearsals in New York City. We then flew to Evans, Georgia for tech week and that was super exciting. We saw the video projections for the first time and jaw dropping, magnificent costumes designed by Tony award winning costume designer Linda Cho. Then we had a preview show at that theatre on October 16th. It was the first time that I had performed in front of an audience since January 2020. For a lot of us actors, it was the first time performing after the pandemic for like 19 months. It was also the first time for the audience to be in a theatre watching a full scale Broadway production live. I was in tears that preview night and the opening night as well, a few days later in Waterbury, Connecticut. It was so magical and emotional coming back after the pandemic. At these early theatres that we have been performing at, our shows have been the first show for these theatres coming back. It’s been overwhelming. Y: And that is true for us here in

Chrysler from Page 1

includes paper cutting, quilling, mosaic and shellwork. Fensterstock’s early artworks centered on conversations about adornment, beauty, preciousness and ephemerality. These ideas developed over the years and now manifest in her recent works, which “explore the narratives we develop to find meaning in nature and the landscapes we fabricate to situate ourselves in the world,” the artist says. In her investigations of the storms brewing all around us, Fensterstock sources an eclectic mix of references that includes classical Zen texts, medieval European illuminations and Leonard Cohen songs as guides in reading these portents. The newest addition to the artist’s rich catalog of influences is The Book of Miracles, a sixteenth-century luxury manuscript that belongs to a category of apocalyptic albums. This type of publication became popular as more people began reading the Bible in the wake of the development of the printing press. The Book of Miracles details a wide range

Gerri Weagraff. (MARC VISCARDI)

4 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

Food

Walnut Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart. (COURTESY PHOTO)

’Tis the Holiday Baking Season By Family Features One of the best parts of the holidays is the aromas and flavors of the season, from walnuts and cinnamon to peppermint and nutmeg. Sweet treats and mouthwatering desserts can bring family and friends around the table to celebrate the season together, one bite at a time. During your festive gatherings this year, choose walnuts as the star baking ingredient. As many home cooks turn to wholesome ingredients that offer health benefits this holiday baking season, California walnuts make for a perfect addition to almost any dish and are an excellent source of omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz). With a buttery flavor that elevates traditional and modern recipes, home bakers can do more with walnuts in the kitchen. Part pumpkin, part cheesecake, this Walnut Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart spices up the classic pumpkin pie recipe. Top it, or other favorite desserts, with light and airy Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream flavored with honey and vanilla to complement festive dishes. This holiday season, pick up a bag of

walnuts for all your baking needs. To discover more festive dessert ideas, visit walnuts.org. Walnut Pumpkin Cream Cheese Tart Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes Servings: 12 Sweet Tart Crust: 1 ¼ cups flour ⅓ cup California walnuts, finely chopped ⅓ cup powdered sugar ⅓ cup salted butter, softened 1 large egg nonstick cooking spray Filling: 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 4 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened ½ cup brown sugar, packed 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk ½ cup California walnuts, coarsely chopped whipped cream, for serving (optional) To make sweet tart crust: In medium bowl, stir flour, walnuts and powdered sugar. Stir in butter and egg. Using fork, stir well until soft dough forms. Gather into

ball and wrap tightly. Refrigerate at least 1 hour, or until dough is easy to handle. Preheat oven to 350 F and coat 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom with nonstick cooking spray. Lay pastry dough on lightly floured board and roll into 11-inch circle. Press dough into bottom and sides of prepared pan and poke with fork on bottom and sides. Bake

20 minutes. To make filling: In medium bowl, whisk pumpkin and cream cheese until smooth. Add brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, egg and egg yolk, beating until incorporated. Pour into prepared crust and top with walnuts. Bake 40 minutes, or until filling is set when pan is gently tapped. Remove from oven and let cool. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve each slice with dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream Total time: 8 minutes Servings: 14 2 ½ cups California walnuts, divided 1 cup water 2 tablespoons powdered sugar 1-2 teaspoons honey, divided 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 pinch salt In blender, puree 2 cups walnuts and water 2 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon honey, vanilla extract and salt; blend 30 seconds. Add remaining honey if sweeter taste is desired. To achieve thicker whipped cream, add remaining walnuts and puree until light and fluffy. Store tightly covered in refrigerator until ready to use.

nonstick cooking spray 5 corn tortillas (6 inches each) 8 ounces ground skinless turkey breast 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 can (15 ½ ounces) no-salt-added black beans, rinsed and drained 2 tablespoons water To make salsa: In small bowl, stir tomatoes, avocado, corn, jalapenos, onions and lime juice. Set aside. Preheat oven to 400 F. To make tostadas: Line baking sheet with aluminum foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. Place tortillas on baking sheet. Lightly spray tortillas with nonstick cooking spray. Using fork, pierce tortillas several times to prevent from filling with air.

Bake tortillas 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. In medium nonstick saucepan over medium-high heat, cook turkey, chili powder, cumin and coriander 5-6 minutes, or until turkey is no longer pink, stirring occasionally to turn and break up turkey. Add beans and water. Cook 5 minutes, or until beans are heated through. Using potato masher, coarsely mash beans. Remove from heat. To assemble tostadas, spread turkey mixture over each tortilla. Top with salsa. Nutritional information per serving: 260 calories; 7.5 g total fat; 1 g saturated fat; 0 g trans fat; 1 g polyunsaturated fat; 4.5 g monounsaturated fat; 18 mg cholesterol; 60 mg sodium; 33 g carbohydrates; 8 g dietary fiber; 7 g sugars; 19 g protein.

Vanilla Walnut Whipped Cream. (COURTESY PHOTO)

Create a Healthier Routine with a Better-forYou Favorite By Family Features Taking time to nurture your health and well-being starts with building healthier habits. As the seasons change, challenge yourself to make small yet consistent choices that help you and your family through transitions at school, the office or wherever your days take you. To help you establish (or re-establish) healthy habits during mealtime and beyond, consider these tips. Eat Meals Together “Making time for meals together as a family provides a chance to connect and decompress,” said Bridget Wojciak, director of nutrition at Kroger Health, a national sponsor of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative. “In fact, regular meals at home can help reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve feelings of connection.” Bring everyone together with a better-foryou seasonal favorite like Turkey and Bean Tostadas. Make Time for Yourself Chronic stress can have a negative impact on mental and physical health, but turning lost moments — like a meal by yourself spent mindlessly scrolling through social media — into mindful moments can help. Try practicing gratitude at the table by thinking of three things you’re grateful for or putting your fork down between each bite to savor the flavor and consider the nourishment you’re receiving. Enjoy the Cooler Temperatures Cooler temperatures can make it more enjoyable to take advantage of outdoor exercise, which is a good way to soak in vitamin D to improve your mood and boost immunity. Going for a brisk walk after mealtime (solo or with your pet), jogging and even raking leaves are examples of activities that count toward the American Heart Association’s recommended 150 minutes

Turkey and Bean Tostadas. (COURTESY PHOTO)

of moderate physical activity per week. Visit heart.org/healthyforgood to download more heart-healthy recipes and find more tips for a healthier you in mind, body and heart. Turkey and Bean Tostadas Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative Servings: 5 Salsa: 2 cups chopped tomatoes (about 2 medium tomatoes) 1 medium avocado, halved, pitted and diced 1 large ear of corn, husks and silk discarded, kernels removed 1-2 medium fresh jalapenos, seeds and ribs discarded, finely chopped 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice Tostadas:

www.ﬂagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, November 18, 2021 5

Health

Karina Melendez, 5, reads a book in the reading corner of a Fort Bliss Child Development Center, Aug. 10, 2020. Now, the Pﬁzer-BioNTech vaccine for 5 through11 year olds has been authorized and is being offered to protect this age group against COVID-19. (COURTESY PHOTO)

COVID 19 Vaccine Is Now Available for Children 5 to 11 By Janet A. Aker

MHS Communications

The Military Health System is poised to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to children ages 5 through 11 years following issuance of an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to Pfizer-BioNTech for its COVID-19 vaccine by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The move will boost the military community’s defenses against a possible surge of COVID-19 as winter approaches and ease the worries of parents weary of the pandemic and its effects on children and their schooling. “This will help protect the whole family and slow the spread of COVID-19 in your community and household,” said Amy Swarthout-Ebarb, a clinical nurse educator for the Defense Health Agency’s Immuniza-

tion Healthcare Division (DHA-IHD) in San Antonio, Texas. “For families, parents and older siblings have received the vaccine. The younger ones are just waiting,” she said. The new pediatric vaccine is important “because children 5-11 can still transmit the COVID-19 virus, potentially affecting those who are not vaccinated and are at risk,” Swarthout-Ebarb said. There are nearly 1 million children 5 through11 years of age who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine from the Defense Department, according to Air Force Col. (Dr.) Tonya Rans, chief of the DHA-IHD. On Nov. 2, Pfizer-BioNTech’s 5 through 11 year old COVID-19 vaccine product was recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a safe and effective option for children.

There is no Defense Department requirement for children within the Military Health System to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Military health officials are encouraging parents to talk with their health care providers about any questions or concerns they may have about this vaccine. “The providers are the best people to give advice to parents,” said Dr. David Hrncir, medical director, Central Vaccine Safety Hub, DHA-IHD. “Pediatricians are good at this and will present the COVID-19 vaccine as just another vaccine” that children should take, he said. Medical experts say the benefits of administering the vaccine to children to protect against COVID-19 outweigh the possible increased risk of the rare side effect called myocarditis, or an inflammation of the heart muscle.

Five to 11 year-olds rarely report problems with vaccines, Hrncir said. Pediatric doses The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine dose for children is one-third smaller than the adult version, at 10 mcg versus the 30 mcg dose for those 12 years and older. The vaccine for children is given as two doses three weeks apart, a two-step sequence similar to the adult version. Pfizer studied approximately 3,100 children ages 5 to 11 in clinical trials. The 10 mcg dose was carefully selected as the preferred dose for safety, tolerability and immunogenicity in children 5 to 11 years of age, according to the company. The vaccines are also packaged differently to help differentiate the adult doses from the pediatric version. The vaccine intended for people ages 12 and up has a purple or gray cap and label for adults and adolescents. To distinguish between the vaccines, the pediatric version, for children ages 5 through 11 years, has an orange label and cap. For now, Pfizer-BioNTech offers the only FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine for those 5 through 11 years. Other pharmaceutical companies may seek approval for this age group in the future.

MHS Reaches 6 Million Doses of Vaccine Against COVID By Janet A. Aker

MHS Communications

The Military Health System has administered more than 6.1 million doses of vaccines against the virus that causes COVID-19. The milestone comes as MHS service members and beneficiaries have either received all shots necessary for immunization against SARS-CoV-2 or who have had at least one shot of a two-dose regimen of Pfizer-BioNTech’s vaccine (labeled as that or as the brand name Comirnaty), the Moderna two-dose vaccine, or one dose as required for the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine. Vaccinations have been ongoing in the MHS since mid-December. On Aug. 24, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III mandated that all service members, including Guard and Reserves, be vaccinated against COVID-19. Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said Nov. 1 that “as of today, 97% of the activeduty force has had at least one dose. This would include 99% of active-duty sailors, and with active airmen closely behind it, around 97%, and the Marine Corps is at 93% with one dose, and the Army also is in

An airmen receives a COVID-19 immunizations as a part of the federal mandate at Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, St. Joseph, Missouri, Oct. 2, 2021. The 139th Medical Group oversees the operation. (COURTESY PHOTO)

the 90th percentile.” “So, just in terms of first dosage, there’s been a lot more progress, and we continue to see the men and women of the force doing the right thing, which is getting

vaccinated.” Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs Dr. Terry Adirim said of this milestone: “We are proud that our service members and beneficiaries have taken the

opportunity to protect themselves against COVID-19. This is an important step for maintaining operational readiness and making the military community safer for our service members and their families.”

6 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, November 18, 2021

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8 The Flagship | www.ﬂagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, November 18, 2021