Flagship 11.26.2020 by Military News

IN THIS THIS ISSUE IN NAVY COLLEGE COLLEGE NAVY IN THIS ISSUE PROGRAM SURVEY: PROGRAM SURVEY:

USS ARLINGTON 24) SAILThe Navy Navy (LPD College Program The College Program ORS BECOME US CITIZENS (NCP) announced a new, more

Vol. 26, No. 30 Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com Vol. 26, No. 30 Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com

(NCP) announced a new, more Joiningefficient the Navycustomer and becoming service efficient customer service aU.S. citizen was his desired opinion survey survey July July 24, 24, as as part part opinion path forofquite some time, but it the continuing improvement of the continuing improvement was a risk to leave old life process for his Voluntary process for Voluntary behind.Education. » See A6 Education.

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TRUMAN STRIKE GROUP RETURNS TO NORFOLK, REMAINS READY

VOL. 26 No. 46, Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com

11.26.2020_12.02.2020

F/A-18 Super Hornets perform a fly over the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman F/A-18 Super Super Hornets Hornets perform perform aa fly fly over over the the Nimitz-class Nimitz-class aircraft aircraft carrier carrier USS USS Harry Harry S. S.Truman Truman F/A-18 MC1 Joshua Sheppard (CVN 75) during a change of command ceremony for the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike (CVN 75) during a change of command ceremony for the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike (CVN 75) during a change of command ceremony for the “Fighting Checkmates” of Strike The San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS New York (LPD 21) arrives at Naval Station Norfolk, Nov. 22, 2020 concluding the ship homeport shift from Mayport, Florida to Virginia. Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211. Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211. of a series of planned homeport shifts set to occur over the next few years, which will consolidate Mayport based amphibious ships in the Hampton Roads area in Fighter Squadron (VFA) 211. The arrival of New York is part exchange increasing the number of guided-missile destroyers in the Mayport area. MC2 Scottfor T Swofford MC2 Scott Scott TT Swofford Swofford MC2

New York arrives in Norfolk

group remains ready to surge forward or regroup remains ready to surge forward or redeploy when called upon. deploy when called upon. “Our strike group’s missions have dem“Our strike Afgroup’s missions have From Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet Public port area. This demplan will support ex- New York will continue to carry out our NORFOLK onstrated we are inherently maneuverable NORFOLK NORFOLK onstrated we are inherently maneuverable fairs tended maintenance operational un-availabilities at lo- powerful legacy of the World Trade CenNearly 6,500 Sailors of the Harry S. Tru- and flexible while remaining operational unNearly 6,500 Sailors of the Harry S. Tru- and flexible while remaining cal shipyards in both adversary,” saidfleet concentration ter attacks by playing a crucial role in man Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) arrived predictable to any potential adversary,” said man Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) arrived predictable to any potential areas personnel theand, Navy’s dynamic changes from the the security and prosperity of our nain Naval Station (NS) Norfolk, Virginia, July Black. “This epitomizes NORFOLK the Navy’s dynamic in Naval Station (NS) Norfolk, Virginia, July Black. “This epitomizes planned homeport shifts are assessed to tion.” force employment concept and shows this 21. force employment concept shows this 21. The SanS. Antonio-class a and negligible economic impact to New York’s commanding officer group is ready have and capable of accomThe aircraft carrier USS Harry Truman strikeamphibious strike is21) ready either and capable of accomThe aircraft carrier USS Harrydock S. TrumanNew transport Yorkgroup (LPD thanked the crew’s family and friends any mission, at anycommunity. time, as our na(CVN 75) and strike group ships USSUSS Nor- plishing plishing any mission, at“On any time, ourthe na-New York’s crew, I for their support and gave a “Bravo (CVN 75) and strike group ships Naval USS NorStation Norfolk, behalfasof tion directs.”Nov. mandy (CG 60), USS arrived Arleigh at Burke (DDG directs.” mandy (CG 60), USS 22, Arleigh Burke (DDG thetion 2020 concluding ship’s homeport would like to personally While in Norfolk, the strike group will not thank the com- Zulu” to the ship’s crew of nearly 400 51) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) MC2 Thomas Gooley WhileVirginia. in Norfolk, the strikeofgroup will not Mayport and the Sailors and Marines for their hard work. 51) and USS Forrest shift Sherman (DDG 98) Naval MC2 Thomas Thomas Gooley Gooley MC2 only to conduct routinemunity maintenance on Station ships, A Sailor embraces his loved on after USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) arrived at Naval arrived after operating for from more Mayport, than threeFlorida Station only conduct routine maintenance on ships, arrived after operating for more thanofthree The is and part equipment, of a city A Sailor Sailor embraces embraces his his loved loved onSailors after USS USS Harry S.Truman Trumanonboard (CVN 75) 75) arrived arrived at at Naval Naval Station Station A after Harry S. (CVN of Sailors Jacksonville for hosting “Theon and Marines aircraft but will also months in the U.S. 5th and 6tharrival fleets areasNew of York Norfolk. us these and set equipment, butseven Sailors will also months in the U.S. 5th series and 6thoffleets areashomeport of aircraft Norfolk. Norfolk. planned shifts to advanced past years,” said Capt. Pete Ken- New York deserve the utmost praise for be able to continue training, mainresponsibility. be ablewhich to continue advanced training, mainresponsibility. occur over the next few years, will nedy, New as York’s officer. their unrelenting commitment to keepwell commanding as “I couldn’t be more proud of this strike tain warfighting certifications, tain warfighting certifications, as and a pleasure for ing our ship operational and battle“I couldn’t be moreconsolidate proud of this strike based Mayport “Itand hasfriends. beenasanwell honor Additionally, the HSTCSG conducted time with family focused and ready for whatever lies ahead.” group team’s performance over more than spendamphibious the HSTCSG conducted timearea withinfamily friends. focused and ready for whatever lies ahead.” “I amAdditionally, group team’s performance moreHampton than spend ships over Roads ourand sailors anddetermimarines to call Mayport said Kennedy. incredibly operations with allies and partners “I’m incredibly proud of the grit, While deployed, ready,” the strike group partici- bilateral three months of operating inin a the highly-dybilateral operations with allies and partners “I’mnumber incredibly proud of the grit, determiWhile deployed, the strike group particithree months of operating in a for highly-dyexchange increasing the of home. are, however, effortWe Truman’s Sail- looking pated inforward a variety of partnership and interop- in both U.S. 5th and 6th fleets, to include namic environment across two theaters,” nation and phenomenal in both U.S. 5th and fleets, to include nation and phenomenal effort Truman’s Sailpated in a variety of partnership and interopnamic environment across two theaters,” guided-missile destroyers in the Mayourlast new home in Norfolk where the as well as maritime ❯❯ Seeand NEWEgypt, YORK | A7 Italy, 6th Morocco, France, Germany and three months erability exercises, said HSTCSG Commander Rear Adm. Gene ors have shown overtothe said HSTCSG Commander Rear Adm. Gene ors have shown over the last three months erability exercises, as well as maritime and Egypt, Morocco, Italy, France, Germany and Black. “We carried out the full spectrum of operating at sea,” said Harry S. Truman’s theater security operations. Strike group the United Kingdom. Also, aircraft from emBlack. “We carried out the full spectrum of operating at sea,” said Harry S. Truman’s theater security operations. Strike group the United Kingdom. Also, aircraft from emmissions from sustained combat flight oper- Commanding Officer Capt. Nick Dienna. units participated in Exercise Baltic Opera- barked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 supported missions from sustained combat flight oper- Commanding Officer Capt. Nick Dienna. units participated in Exercise Baltic Opera- barked Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 supported ations to training and integration with NATO “While we plan to enjoy our time in port, tions (BALTOPS) from the Adriatic Sea and Operation Inherent Resolve during May and ations to training and integration with NATO “While we plan to enjoy our time in port, tions (BALTOPS) from the Adriatic Sea and Operation Inherent Resolve during May and including reconnecting with those who sup- Exercise Lightning Handshake with the Moallies and regional partners.” including reconnecting with those who sup- Exercise Lightning Handshake with the Moallies and regional partners.” Black also emphasized that the strike ported us from afar, we’re continuing to stay roccan Navy and Air Force. »»See HOME | A6 Black also emphasized that the strike ported us from afar, we’re continuing to stay roccan Navy and Air Force. »»See HOME | A6 From Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group From Harry Harry S. S. Truman Truman Carrier Carrier Strike Strike Group Group From Public Affairs Public Affairs Affairs Public

SUBLANT civilian receives Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Award

Air Defense Commander integrates into CNRMA HOLDS HOLDS CNRMA Ford Strike CHANGE OF OF COMMAND, COMMAND, CHANGE Group RETIREMENT CEREMONY CEREMONY RETIREMENT

From Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

By MC1 Jeff Troutman

Carrier Strike Group 12 Public Affairs

was the guest speaker. was the guest speaker. Navy Public Affairs Support Element – East Scorby, a native of Manlius, N.Y., asATLANTIC OCEAN Navy Public Public Affairs Affairs Support Element Element –– East East Navy Support Scorby, a native of Manlius, N.Y., assumed command of CNRMA on March sumed command of CNRMA on March Off the Coast of Virginia, USS GerNORFOLK 10, 2016 and demonstrated innovative NORFOLK NORFOLK 10, 2016 and demonstrated innovative ald R. Ford (CVN 78) and its emRear Adm. Charles W. Rock relieved leadership in guiding 14 installations Rear Carrier Adm. Charles W.(CVW)-8 Rock relieved leadership in guiding 14 installations barked AirC. Wing Rear Adm. John Scorby Jr. as are Com- across a 20-state region. Rear Adm. John C. Scorbyfully Jr. asinteCom- across a 20-state region. conducting the first-ever, mander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic While under Scorby’s command, mander,carrier Navy Region Mid-Atlantic While under Scorby’s command, grated strike (CNRMA), during a group changeoperations of command CNRMA encouraged energy conserva(CNRMA), during a change ofthe command CNRMA encouraged energy conservafor a Ford-class leadceremony held carrier, at Navalunder Station Norfolk, tion through initiatives such as Battle ceremony held at Naval Station Norfolk, tion through initiatives such as Battle ership and operational control of July 20. “E” for energy program, resulting in July 20.Strike Group (CSG)-12. “E” for energy program, resulting in Carrier The change of command ceremony the region garnering 27 Secretary of the MCSN Riley McDowell The change command ceremony the region garnering 27 Secretary of the operationof also includes was immediately followed by a Deretire-Sailors Navy energyto and watercarrier management assigned the aircraft USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) air department, was immediately followed by a retireNavy energy and water management stroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2; conduct flight operations, 2020.Scorby Under the leadership of Carrier Strike ment ceremony for Scorby. awards during 2016 Nov. and 13, 2017. ment ceremony for Scorby. awards during 2016R. and 2017. Scorby CSG-12’s air and missile defense com12, Gerald the Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting firstVice Adm. Mary M. Jackson, com-Group also(CSG) championed Fleet and FamVice Adm. Mary M. officer Jackson, com-ever also championed strike the Fleet Fam- with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Demander, commanding of the group and operations mander, the Navy Installations Command ilyintegrated Support carrier Program, collaborating with mander, Navy Installations Commandstroyer ily Support Program, collaborating with Squadron (DESRON) 2 and their air and missile defense commander, the By MC3 Caledon Rabbipal By MC3 MC3 Caledon Caledon Rabbipal Rabbipal By

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commanding officer of the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64).

»»See CEREMONY | A8 »»See CEREMONY | A8

Ford Sailor goes FATHER & SON FATHER & SON above and beyond INVENTORS INVENTORS RECOGNIZED: Receiving the title “Blue RECOGNIZED: A father and son team Jacket of the Quarter, ” A father and son team were among 32 warfare inventors becoming surface were among 32 inventors honored at the Naval qualified, a bachhonoredearning at the Naval Surface Warfare Center elor’s degree all while Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division creating delicious meals Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) Patent Awards every day may seem (NSWCDD) Patentlike Awards ceremony, July 19. too much to put on 19. one’s ceremony, July ❯❯See » See A7 plate. A4A7 » See

NORFOLK

A Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (SUBLANT) civilian received the Department of the Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Award, Nov. 13. John D. Moss, former director, submarine requirements and warfare development, received the award for his exceptional dedication and devotion to duty during his retirement ceremony. Vice Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, Submarine Forces (SUBFOR), spoke on Moss’ 18 years at SUBLANT and the lasting impact he had on the organization. “John first arrived at SUBLANT as the deputy of submarine requirements and warfare development department, and eventually took over as the department’s director,” said Caudle. “From my perspective, John absolutely ❯❯

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MCSN Caledon Rabbipal MCSN Caledon Caledon Rabbipal Rabbipal MCSN

Ford Sailors Admiral's Row HisMINE EXERCISE VETERAN’S MINE EXERCISE VETERAN’S ensure safety tory Project BEGINS: KITCHEN HELPS BEGINS: KITCHEN HELPS of flight operaEach leather-bound album U.S. Navy mine countermeasure HOMELESS U.S. Navy mine countermeasure HOMELESS tions chronicled the individual units, Japan MaritimehisSelf VETS: units, Japan Maritime Self VETS: tories each of the former 1907 and Defense Force MCM units, The non-profit cannon-profit happen , so Defense Force MCM units, and “A lotThe Jamestown Exposition Indian Navy Explosive Ordinance organization, is you have to be versaIndianEach Navy Explosive organization, is homes. page broughtOrdinance Disposal units commenced 2JAtile and preparing to to place know how Disposal units commenced 2JA preparing to place fourth detailed histories, and mine countermeasure exercise operate its 500th veteran into all over the mine countermeasure exercise its 500th veteran into archived photographs 2018 near Ominato, Japan, on flightnew housing within deck, ” 2018 near Ominato, Japan, on new housing within July 18. the next week. July 18. the next week. ❯❯See» A5 » See B1 See C1 ❯❯See A2 » » See B1 See C1 Sign up

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MC2 Kallysta Castillo Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Equipment) 1st Class Kenneth Fells, from Palatka, Florida, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) air department, signals to an F/A-18F Super Hornet attached to the "Blacklions" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 213 during flight operations, Nov. 6, 2020. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting fleet carrier qualifications for Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8 and CVW-7.

Ford Sailors ensure safety of flight operations By MC2 Ryan Seelbach

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Everyday at sea, Sailors assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) air department man various watchstations on Ford’s flight deck to conduct routine flight operations. From the top of the island in primary flight control to the aviation boatswain’s mates who direct the aircraft to the Sailors assigned to each squadron and everyone in between, some could say that no other watchstation carries the weight of responsibility like the Sailors qualified as catapult safety observers. Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 1st Class Kenneth Fells, from Palatka, Florida, assigned to Ford’s air department, explained that once he stops on the flight deck, his job has just begun. “I have to make sure all of our personnel are squared away. Making sure that they brought all the necessary equipment, like weight boards and hold back bars, and I pre-check everything,” said Fells. All Sailors on the flight deck communi-

cate with hand signals from the naval air training and operating procedures standardization (NATOPS) manual. These hand signals provide the basis for how the catapult safety observer conducts their checks on the Sailors on deck and the pilots in the aircraft. After ensuring all equipment is functioning and his team of Sailors is ready to go, the green beacon light rotates on the island indicating a ready-deck and that aircraft will soon use Ford’s state-of-the-art Electromagnetic Aircraft Launching System (EMALS) catapult to launch. “After I finish my sweep, checking all the watchstations, I look at the launch control officer (LCO) who also does a sweep and gives me permission to take tension [on the aircraft],” said Fells. “I continually check the foul lines, plane checkers and catwalks to ensure we are still a go for launch. The LCO presses the fire button inside the integrated catapult control system and the aircraft launches from the deck.” Catapult safety observers are qualified in the various positions of which they supervise during their sweep of the flight deck

such as the topside safety petty officer, deck edge operator and EMALS rover just to name a few. “You have to be a subject matter expert and be mature. A lot can happen and you are overall in charge, so you have to be versatile and know how to operate all over the flight deck,” said Fells. Chief Warrant Officer Anthony Dellajacono, Ford’s aircraft launch and recovery equipment boatswain says that a catapult safety observer is the Sailor who ensures all launches are successful. “The safety observer is the overall subject matter expert when it comes to topside launching,” said Dellajacono. “Fells has gained the knowledge of flight operations through many years of training. It is paramount that the safety observer knows what is going on both topside and below decks to have a successful launch.” Fells recalled a time when his valued expertise played a crucial role during a watch. “One of my favorite memories onboard Ford was when I helped the topside petty officer solve an issue while an aircraft was

on cat [catapult] one. The Sailor didn’t know how to break down the aircraft when something wasn’t working,” said Fells. “We worked through the problem together to solve the issue. I like being that guy, the problem solver, in the heat of the moment.” Being the leader of a team on the flight deck means having courage and awareness, both are qualities that Dellajacono expects from Sailors like Fells. “These qualities contribute to a safety observer leading a team of aviation boatswain’s mates (equipment) on deck because the safety observer consistently sets the example that every single Sailor up there needs to follow,” said Della Jacono. “They have to be able to trust and look up to their leader which will instill confidence in their own safety on deck as well.” Under the leadership of Carrier Strike Group TWELVE, Gerald R. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting firstever integrated carrier strike group operations with Carrier Air Wing EIGHT, Destroyer Squadron TWO and their Air and Missile Defense Commander, Commanding Officer of USS Gettysburg (CG 64). For more news from USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), visit www.dvidshub.net/unit/ CVN78.

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 conducts aerial Change of Command From Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs NORFOLK

Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 the “Rawhides” conducted an aerial change of command above Naval Station Norfolk, Nov. 19. Cmdr. Andrew R. Beard relieved Cmdr. Adam N. Heil, who while in command of VRC-40 focused on the professional and personal development of all Rawhides. During his tenure, the “Rawhides” supported U.S. 2nd Fleet, U.S. 5th, and U.S. 7th Fleet areas of responsibility to include providing detachments supporting USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) deployment; as well as USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) previous work-up cycles and deployments. Other detachments supported Naval Air Training Command, Fleet Replacement Squadrons, and fleet carrier qualification underway periods. Additionally, VRC-40 provided five Carrier Strike Groups with critical uninterrupted logistics support around the globe, flying 2,269 sorties and delivering 14,839 passengers, and more than 2.2 million pounds of cargo and mail to the Fleet. “To the men and women assigned to VRC-40 I want to thank each and every one of them for their professionalism and service to the fleet,” said Heil. “It has been an absolute

MC1 Jason Pastrick C-2 Greyhound aircraft assigned to the Rawhides of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 sit on the tarmac after returning home to Naval Station Norfolk, August 6, 2020. The squadron has supported the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and its carrier strike group which has been underway for more than 200 consecutive days.

honor to lead VRC-40.” While in command, VRC-40 received the 2018 Battle “E,” 2018 Chief of Naval Operations Safety “S,” 2018 and 2019 Retention Excellence Awards, the 2019 Blue “M”, and Surgeon General’s “H.” Beard, who has served as VRC-40’s executive officer since August 2019, discussed the pursuit of excellence his predecessor brought to the position. “Skipper Heil developed this squadron into a world-class organization, which is reflected in our unit’s awards and

outstanding condition and readiness numbers we have enjoyed. This, our third tour together, has been an honor to realize together the culmination of his experience in the community across an entire squadron; he has imprinted his stamp of excellence across the entire command,” said Beard. VRC-40’s mission is to provide airborne logistics support to underway aircraft carriers and secondary missions as directed by Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic. They maintain and fly the squadron’s 14 aircraft, and have nearly 400 enlisted personnel, 31 officers, and 21 chief petty officers.

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm. Charles W. “Chip” Rock Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA):

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SOMETIMES MY HUMAN DOESN’T WEAR PANTS AT HOME. IT’S A RIOT.

„

–COLBY adopted 06-18-11

A3 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

COVID care: Navy focuses on Sailors’ mental, spiritual health By MC2 Mark Thomas Mahmod Naval Air Station Oceana Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH

From disease outbreaks on deployed vessels to mandated restrictions-of-movement, the Navy has been forced to deal with a unique set of challenges due to COVID-19 since early this year. Some health precautions are simple: Wear a mask. Keep distance between yourself and others. Work from home. However, not all threats to Sailors emerge from an external source. “In Hampton Roads, we’re such a fleet-concentrated area, that we unfortunately have to deal with suicide,” said Shannon Davis, Fleet and Family Support Program (FFSP) Manager. “They happen. One is too many. We don’t want it to happen.” According to Davis, Navy resources are being utilized to lessen the combined psychological impact of the pandemic and the military operational tempo. “One of the things that Fleet and Family can do that other organizations out in the community may not be able to do is we could leverage very quickly a number of assets on any given notice to go to a ship,” said Davis. “Or if they need tele-counseling, we could provide that on a moment’s notice.” The Navy’s FFSP provides resources to assist Sailors and their families in several areas, including clinical counseling, deployment readiness support, and Sailor Assistance and Intercept for Life (SAIL). SAIL is a program available to active duty Sailors who experienced a suicide ideation or attempt. “That’s an agreement between the clinician and the participant to connect with one another on a regular basis until we’re able to resolve the issue, connect with additional resources, and reintegrate them back into the command,” said Davis. One of the additional resources available to Sailors in times of increased stress is the Navy Chaplain Corps. Chaplains are available to provide spiritual counseling, religious services, and prayer to Sailors and their families in times of need. Capt. Stephen Shaw, regional chaplain for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, said isolation and loneliness have been increasingly popular topics in pastoral care within the region since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. “At a training command, those people are kept in a

MC1 Sarah Villegas

bubble during COVID, so it’s not ‘solitary isolation,’ but it is isolation from their network, their ability to see family or other friends face-to-face,” said Shaw, describing the isolation scenarios Sailors may find themselves in throughout various types of Navy commands. “We are with them in the bubble and provide pastoral care so that we can help them mitigate the stress that they’re dealing with.” In order to protect Sailors seeking assistance, chaplains have begun utilizing new and alternative methods for connecting with the fleet. “What we’re doing now on a site-by-site basis is determining how much we can offer,” said Shaw. “If it’s too dangerous to meet face-to-face, then we’re utilizing social media, we’re utilizing livestream, and we have some very creative chaplains who have found some ways to take traditional programs and deliver them in a way that doesn’t violate COVID protocol but meets the need.” According to Shaw, one of the positive aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic was opening up the opportunity to explore new channels of communication for Chaplains to provide assistance. “As we learn how to adjust, we realize we’re

picking up capabilities that we’re going to continue to utilize even after COVID subsides,” said Shaw.” One route Chaplains are beginning to utilize more is texting and taking a proactive approach to converse with Sailors at their commands. “We’re getting better at doing tele-counseling and texting,” said Shaw. “The generation that we are most concerned about is age 18 to 25, and that’s their primary way of communicating. Our chaplains are learning how to do that, and reaching out proactively to people. We stay in contact with the chain of command to know who’s at risk and reach out and offer them that opportunity for help.” As the Navy continues to develop its methods for providing assistance for Sailors experiencing tough times under new circumstances, Davis added that it’s important to continue reaching and helping personnel to the fullest extent. “As a clinician for a number of years and in this position for 21 years, our motto is ‘every day, every Sailor,” said Davis. “One thing for sure, it is about families and making sure we can make resilient and strong families, so that Sailors can go out and be focused on the mission at hand.”

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Dishing up Excellence: Ford Sailor goes above and beyond By MC2 Kallysta Castillo USS Gerald R. Ford Public Affairs

NORFOLK

Receiving the title “Blue Jacket of the Quarter,” becoming surface warfare qualified, earning a bachelor’s degree all while creating delicious meals every day may seem like too much to put on one’s plate. This is exactly what Culinary Specialist Seaman, TrudyAnn Allison, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) supply department, has accomplished within the past year of her time aboard the ship. Allison was announced as Ford’s “Blue Jacket of the Quarter,” an honor bestowed on Sailors for outstanding performance of duty and extraordinary professionalism, Sept. 29, 2020 and she said the recognition for her hard work further fuels her ambition towards achievement. She also said she hopes her peers see her success as a shared victory. “When I first heard about my nomination it was so exciting because it showed that all my hard work was really being noticed,” said Allison. “I hope my peers know that this award is a win for all of us in the galley. It’s a representation of my team and my chain of command who has helped me so much along the way.” From the beginning of her Navy career, Allison set her sights high when it comes to her goals and she has steadfastly worked towards turning them into reality. She entered the Navy in 2019 with the aspiration of providing structure and pride to her daughters by displaying her own hard-work ethic and enthusiastic pursuit towards excellence. In her time aboard Ford, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in theology and she said after mastering her position as a culinary specialist, commissioning to become a Navy chaplain would be a potential goal. “I pursued a degree in theology because it’s really important for me to always do the right thing. It was very interesting to study what that actually means,” said Allison. “It’s been a very special part of my life because my devotion for my religion is how I stay positive and motivated.” In addition to her personal achievements, Allison’s curious and outgoing nature has inspired her to seek involvement in command programs such as junior enlisted association (JEA) and gay lesbian and supporting sailors (GLASS). She said that she deeply enjoys meeting people from different backgrounds and providing encouragement to fellow Sailors in a community where everyone can be themselves. “I absolutely recommend joining JEA because it’s such a fun way to come together and give something back to our community of Sailors. We really enjoy working behind the scenes to see everyone having a good time at all the morale events,” said Allison. “GLASS is really great too because it allows us to have fun while we build a community of

MC2 Kallysta Castillo Culinary Specialist Seaman Trudy-Ann Allison, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) supply department, poses for a portrait for winning Blue Jacket of the Quarter, Oct 22, 2020. Ford is in port Naval Station Norfolk for a scheduled Window of Opportunity for maintenance during her 18-month post delivery test and trials phase of operations.

support, plus it gives us the opportunity to volunteer with community outreach.” Allison went on to explain how working as a culinary specialist has enriched her time aboard the ship because she genuinely likes to cook. She said that in her spare time, she enjoys making treats for her peers just to see them smile, and that it brightens her day to hear people compliment her cooking skills. “When I decided to be a culinary specialist I didn’t know very much about the rate, but I jumped at the opportunity because I love cooking,” she said. “Since I’ve been on board it’s been a goal of mine to one day cook for the captain. That’s how I’ll know that my skills are top-notch.”

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When it comes to advice, Allison is happy to share her outlook on how to stay motivated. She says that when pursuing your dreams, it’s important to keep an upbeat perspective because you receive what you seek to give. “We all have bad experiences that can put us in a negative mind space sometimes, but it’s important to just keep going and stay optimistic because when you stay positive then positive things come back to you,” said Allison. “We are all a big family and we all need each other — the more everyone sees this, the better we can help each other succeed and prosper.” For more news from USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), visit www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN78

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A5 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Max Lonzanida Leather bound albums adorn a draped linen table. Each of the albums contain a detailed history of each of the historic residences that line Dillingham Boulevard aboard Naval Station Norfolk.

Admiral's Row History Project By Max Lonzanida

Hampton Roads Naval Museum Public Affairs

NORFOLK

On a brisk afternoon earlier this month, a few residents of Naval Station Norfolk’s Admirals Row gathered for a unique event. On the sprawling front porch of one the residences were 19 leather bound albums sprawled atop a table adorned with crisp linens. Each leather-bound album chronicled the individual histories each of the former 1907 Jamestown Exposition homes. Each page brought fourth detailed histories, archived photographs, and historical notes that sheds some light on the former residents of each home; many of whom were forgotten until now. The small gathering served as the culmination of a nearly two-year project, where residents of the homes along Dillingham Boulevard received a bound leather album about their historic home. Museum Director, John Pentangelo was present at the gathering and shared some notes about the project. Also present was

Ed Kellam, President of the Hampton Roads Naval Historical Foundation, which contributed the funding for each leatherbound album. The non-profit foundation partially supports the museum and operates a gift shop just outside of Naval Station Norfolk. The bulk of the research for each leatherbound album was compiled by Kim Brown, a resident of Admiral’s Row and wife of VADM Brian Brown, Commander of U.S. Naval Information Forces. She noted that “it is mind boggling to think about the military leadership that has lived under these roofs! Alongside groundbreaking women and African American officers, Admiral’s Row has produced 15 Chiefs of Naval Operations, 4 Commandants of the Marine Corps, 1 Chief of Staff of the Army, and 1 Commandant of the Coast Guard. We had one of the Navy’s four 5-star Fleet Admirals come out of Connecticut House.” Previously, each of the historic homes had a plaque that adorned their entryways with the names of each resident inscribed

on it; this concise project highlighted the social gatherings and biographies of the former residents who graced the confines of each historic home. She spent countless hours over the course of the project to ensure that the histories of each home and their residents are accurately noted. She also noted that “these albums will offer something permanent and narrative to connect us all to a very special past and create a space for future residents to join in that unique kinship.” The bulk of the research was done at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum’s Annex, located at Building H-9. It was there that Katherine Renfrew, their Registrar, aided in compiling the bulk of the research. According to Brown, additional research was compiled through the military registrars at Ancestry.com, among other sources. Throughout the course of their research, both piled through the archives at the annex building and sifted through newspaper articles which documented the activities of each home’s residents and their social gatherings. Each of the 19 historic homes along Dillingham Boulevard was originally part of the 1907 Jamestown Exposition. Each

home represented the architecture of each state that contributed funding during the event. After the establishment of Naval Station Norfolk, the homes were eventually converted to house flag officers from various commands; and each album represents one of the first concerted efforts to preserve the history of each home and their respective residents. Included in each album are some blank pages for future residents to include something. Also contributing to the project was Lincoln Military Housing, who installed wooden display shelves in each home to store the albums. A pair of Chiefs from the nearby Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) carefully crafted each storage shelf; while Sailors from Navy Public Affairs Support Element-East contributed the graphics and layout for some of the pages found in each album. At the conclusion of the gathering, residents who were present received their treasured leather-bound albums along with a greater understanding of the individual histories of their historic residences which predate the establishment of Naval Station Norfolk.

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A6 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

USS Arlington (LPD 24) Sailors become US citizens By MC2 John Bellino

USS Arlington (LPD 24) Public Affairs

NORFOLK

Joining the Navy and becoming a U.S. citizen was his desired path for quite some time, but it was a risk to leave his old life behind. Everything changed when Seaman Sokoudjoou Tchalauo’s daughter was born. Tchalauo was working as a custodian and attending college for cybersecurity at the time his daughter was born. Dreams of a better life for her immediately became a top priority. One day, his wife Andrea brought their daughter to visit Tchalauo at work and he found himself staring down into her glistening, little brown eyes, as she innocently stared back up at him. That was the moment everything clicked in his head; it was time to join the Navy. People from all corners of the globe have dreams of becoming U.S. citizens and it’s important for them to take advantage of opportunities when they arise. Tchalauo is 38 years old and originally hails from Togo, Africa, a small country in western Africa squeezed between Ghana and Nigeria. He joined the Navy in January 2020 and reported to the amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) in May. It was on the Arlington that his path toward citizenship began. Yeoman 1st Class Ishaka Jacobs, one of the Arlington’s citizenship representatives, assisted Tchalauo throughout the process of obtaining the application to ultimately swearing in as a U.S. citizen. “Making sure these Sailors get help is a major factor in their professional and personal development,” Jacobs said. “It means a lot to me because I went through the same process as a young airman.” Seaman Nicolette Brown is another Arlington Sailor who has ambitions of providing a better life for her daughter

as a U.S. citizen. Brown is 30 years old and is originally from Portmore, Jamaica. Before coming to the U.S. and joining the Navy, Brown was going to school and working in Jamaica. She received a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a Master of Arts in teaching. Coming to America was a risky decision because she would be leaving her accolades behind and starting over. Brown kept her daughter’s future in mind, regardless of any setbacks. She felt joining the Navy and becoming a U.S. citizen was the best way to ensure a sense of stability, based on the experiences she witnessed from a close friend. “She was living successfully and talking about how well things were going and asked me if it was something I would like to do too,” Brown recalled. Friends and family expressed their willingness to step up and take care of her daughter while she was away, so Brown decided to take the leap of faith. She started the citizenship application soon after reporting to the Arlington in February 2020. When becoming a U.S. citizen in the Navy, it’s standard procedure to have the commanding officer of the Sailor sign the application before the Sailor can proceed with any further steps. “I was surprised by the speed of the responses…I was so happy our chain of command is really taking serious some of the issues of their Sailors,” Tchalauo said. “I feel like I have a lot to offer and the citizenship was something that was standing in my way, so it really opens up some doors for me.” Tchalauo has ambitions of becoming an information system technician while he finishes his college degree, then he wants to commission as a naval officer. None of which is possible without becoming a U.S. citizen first. Most jobs and all security clearances in the Navy require Sailors to be citizens. Brown sees herself pursuing a career

MC2 John Bellino Seaman Sokoudjoou Tchalaou, assigned to amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24), poses after swearing in as a United States citizen, Nov. 16, 2020. Tchalaou originally hails from Togo, a small country in western Africa.

outside the Navy, but she is grateful for the opportunities the Navy has provided her. “It means a lot that I can make a life, especially for my daughter…it gives us opportunities to build a life here,” Brown stated.

Brown and Tchalauo both swore in as U.S. citizens on Nov. 16, 2020 at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office in Norfolk, Virginia. Now they are one step closer to the future they envisioned for themselves and their children.

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A7 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Award | SUBLANT civilian receives Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Award Continued from A1 crushed that assignment. He set forth initiatives at SUBLANT that will endure and systemically change how we fundamentally do business in that department.” The praises for Moss did not end with Caudle, but continued as Don Hoffer, executive director, SUBFOR, recounted the time spent working alongside him. “After forty years of service and the entire area he covered, there are very few civilians in the history of the U.S. Navy who have contributed and sacrificed as much as John and his family have,” said Hoffer. “We should all recognize and appreciate that individuals like John don’t come around very often, and we are very fortunate to have had him here for almost 20 years.” While Moss’ retirement marks the end of 18 successful years at SUBLANT, it also marks the end of a civilian career spanning 41 years and multiple organizations. “My 41 years of working just seemed to happen,” said Moss. “I was blessed never to have a job I did not enjoy. I worked for

many talented professionals who made me better and who enriched my life experience. In my first 23, years I worked on six different echelon one, two and three staffs, each preparing me for the last and best 18 years of my career right here at SUBLANT. This truly is a great organization.” Moss’ civilian career was not exclusive to the U.S. Navy, but extended into the surrounding community. “Service goes much further than just working for the Navy, John was also a community leader,” said Caudle reflecting on Moss’ leadership. “He supported the Boy Scouts of America as a member of the Tidewater Council Board of Directors and served multiple terms on the Virginia Beach city council since as far back as 1986.” After receiving his award and certificate of retirement, Moss offered final words for his department. “To my colleagues, there are just not enough words or time to capture all the great teamwork and collective achievements,” said Moss. “Each team member, past and present, has exercised a critical role in the future readiness and competitive advantages of our nation’s submarine forces. All the words you heard here were words that you earned and it was a privilege to be your coach because you were the winning team.” The Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Award is an honorary award to recog-

New York | New York arrives in Norfolk

MC2 Cameron Stoner Don Hoffer, executive director, Submarine Forces, presents John D. Moss, former director, submarine requirements and warfare development, with the Department of the Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Award, Nov. 13, 2020. Moss retirement ceremony marks the end of 41 years of exceptional dedication and devotion to duty across multiple government organizations.

nize contributions to the Department’s national security, mission, humanitarian, or peacekeeping efforts. The mission of the Submarine Force is to execute the Department of the Navy’s mission in and from the undersea domain. In addition to lending added capacity to naval forces, the Submarine Force, in particular, is expected to leverage those spe-

Strike Group | Air Defense Commander integrates into Ford Strike Group

Continued from A1 Continued from A1 proud and honored to serve alongside some of the most dedicated men and women of this country. I would also like to thank our families and friends that have never failed to support us during these uncertain times of multiple deployments and a global pandemic. It is because of the love and care of our families and friends, the sailors and marines of the New York are the best this country has to offer.” New York is one of three amphibious transport dock ships named in honor of the victims of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The ship’s bow stem was cast using 7.5 tons of steel salvaged from the World Trade Center. The Navy named the eighth and ninth ships of the class Arlington and Somerset, in honor of the victims of the attacks on the Pentagon and United Flight 93, respectively. The ship maintains a close tie with its namesake, and most recently visited New York City in May 2019. Several memorials to its namesake can be found throughout the ship including uniforms from the first responders of the 9/11 attacks, the original name plate from the previous ship to bear its name, and memorabilia from various Broadway musicals and New York City sports teams. These serve the crew as daily reminders of the ship’s deep, patriotic heritage. New York most recently deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (BAT ARG), returning to Mayport in July 2020. During the deployment, BAT ARG, Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8 and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted exercises and operations in the U.S. 2nd, 6th and 5th Fleet areas of operations. Highlights of the ship’s employment included working with partners from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to coordinate multiple complex training evolutions on the uninhabited Karan and Kurayn islands in the Arabian Gulf and serving as the sea base for Marine Corps UH-1Y Venom and AH-1W Super Cobra attack helicopters during a dynamic livefire exercise in Bize, Albania. The ship was commissioned on Nov. 7, 2009 in New York City and its initial homeport was Naval Station Norfolk, until it moved to Naval Station Mayport on Dec. 6, 2013.

USS Gettysburg (CG 64); and CSG-12’s information warfare commander. While underway, Air and Missile Defense Warfare Commander Capt. Corey Keniston and his staff are making the most of the first-of-its-kind opportunity to integrate with the Ford crew and embarked staff during the ship’s independent steaming event (ISE) 13—a key milestone more than halfway through Ford’s 18-month Post-Delivery Test and Trials phase of operations. “During typical strike group operations, the air defense commander remains on the cruiser escort and is the only warfare commander who is not on the carrier,“ said Keniston, a native of Brenham, Texas. ”This ISE is providing a unique opportunity to be physically onboard the carrier and see all the other things that go on within the strike group. “It’s been interesting to learn what amazing capabilities the Ford-class ship brings to the fight,“ he added. ”I’m particularly impressed with the radar system that’s on board, and I think it’s a game-changer for the surveillance and identification challenge that the air defense commander faces because now I have even more credible sensors that I can use to build the entire air picture for the strike group commander to make decisions from." Keniston’s embarked staff includes Lt. Samuel Fikes, Gettysburg’s systems test officer, from Lubbock, Texas, who was previously stationed onboard Ford from 20132016. Fikes said he relished the opportunity to return to his former platform and to see the operational side of the ship from an entirely different perspective. “I was here for three years during the pre-commissioning phase of Ford, and I never had the chance to get underway with her the first time I was here,” said Fikes. “Getting to come back as part of the air defense team and supporting the carrier and getting underway and seeing the operational side of the ship has been an outstanding experience.” Gettysburg serves as an air defense platform for CSG-12, and its’ role is to coordinate air defense assets across the strike group to ensure no manned aircraft or cruise missile can harm the carrier. The unique experience of having all major facets of the strike group in one place, at the same time, has provided the air and missile defense cell operators a wealth of knowledge

cial advantages that come with undersea concealment to permit operational, deterrent and combat effects that the Navy and the nation could not otherwise achieve. The Submarine Force and supporting organizations constitute the primary undersea arm of the Navy. Submarines and their crews remain the tip of the undersea spear.

and learning opportunities they normally wouldn’t get when working from their respective platforms, Fikes said. “Being embarked on Ford for this ISE, we’re getting to have face-to-face conversations with the people responsible for the other warfare domains, as opposed to just hearing a voice on a radio,” said Fikes. “We’re having some very detailed, in-depth conversations with pilots and others involved in executing air defense; it’s good for us to develop relationships with the squadrons, and it’s good for them because they’re able to talk to us face-to-face, and they normally would not have that opportunity. This integration is a fantastic way to build that foundation in a real-time environment.” The integration has helped the entire strike group team come together as a single combat unit for the very first time, something the air and missile defense cell has seized upon as a positive learning experience, Keniston said. “The hardest thing about strike group operations is there are a finite number of resources, and there could be an infinite number of threats that you need to consider and plan for,” said Keniston. “You have to learn to work with the other warfare commanders to manage that finite amount of resources while meeting the priorities of the strike group commander. Between air defense, strike missions, undersea warfare, surface warfare and other warfare commander’s requirements, you have to balance the resources to employ them in the best way possible to meet the strike group’s mission.” Seeing all the different facets of strike group operations in one place has provided other members of the air and missile defense cell an opportunity to see a side of the planning and development phase during which they would never otherwise be present. “This is my first tour on a cruiser, so it’s been a great opportunity for me to see the integration piece, especially being on a platform that is a warfare commander,” said Lt. Veronica Hoecherl, Gettysburg’s navigator, from Del Ray Beach, Florida. “Seeing all the planning and coordination that has to occur to make an event like this happen has been incredibly helpful and has been a rewarding experience for me.” “It’s been interesting to develop this all from scratch for a new class of carrier like Ford. This is all different from how we would strategize and execute on a Nimitz-class carrier, as far as capabilities are concerned, because the systems are different on this platform and ISE 13 is giving us a chance to prove some of the concepts we’ve been discussing,” said Fikes. During ISE 13, CSG-12 assets are conducting unit-level training, maritime strike exercises, an air defense exercise, and other larger force exercises.

For more military news visit FlagshipNews.com

A8 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

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TERMS AVAILABLE ON APPROVED CREDIT THROUGH PARTICIPATING DEALERS AND TOYOTA FINANCIAL SERVICES (TFS). NOT ALL CUSTOMERS/LESSEES QUALIFY. RAV4 LEASE EXAMPLE BASED ON 2021 RAV4 LE FWD 2.5L 4-CYL MODEL 4430 WITH MSRP OF $27,225, CAPITALIZED COST OF $23,932, AND A LEASE END PURCHASE AMOUNT OF $18,241. $2,999 DUE AT SIGNING INCLUDES $2,120 CUSTOMER DOWN PAYMENT, FIRST MONTH’S PAYMENT OF $229, AND $650 ACQUISITION FEE. $500 CASH FROM TMS MUST BE APPLIED AS A CAPITALIZED COST REDUCTION (DOWN PAYMENT) THAT IS EXCLUDED FROM DUE AT SIGNING; NO CASH BACK OPTION. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH TFS APR CASH, TFS LEASE CASH, CUSTOMER CASH, APR, APR SUBVENTION CASH. TACOMA LEASE EXAMPLE BASED ON 2021 TACOMA SR 4X4 ACCESS CAB 4-CYL. ENGINE 6-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION 6-FT. BED MODEL 7514 WITH MSRP OF $28,685, CAPITALIZED COST OF $24,962, AND A LEASE END PURCHASE AMOUNT OF $22,661. $2,999 DUE AT SIGNING INCLUDES $2,180 CUSTOMER DOWN PAYMENT, FIRST MONTH’S PAYMENT OF $169, AND $650 ACQUISITION FEE. $1,000 CASH FROM TMS MUST BE APPLIED AS A CAPITALIZED COST REDUCTION (DOWN PAYMENT) THAT IS EXCLUDED FROM DUE AT SIGNING; NO CASH BACK OPTION. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH TFS APR CASH, TFS LEASE CASH, CUSTOMER CASH, APR, APR SUBVENTION CASH. EXCLUDES 2021-7597, 2021-7598. ALL LEASES: DEALER CONTRIBUTION MAY VARY AND COULD AFFECT LEASE PAYMENT. INDIVIDUAL DEALER PRICES, OTHER TERMS AND OFFERS MAY VARY. MUST LEASE FROM PARTICIPATING DEALER’S STOCK AND TERMS ARE SUBJECT TO VEHICLE AVAILABILITY. LESSEE RESPONSIBLE FOR MAINTENANCE, EXCESS WEAR AND USE, AND WILL PAY $0.15 PER MILE FOR ALL MILEAGE OVER 10,000 MILES PER YEAR. $350 DISPOSITION FEE IS DUE AT LEASE END. OFFER AVAILABLE IN DE, MD, PA, VA, WV REGARDLESS OF BUYER’S RESIDENCY; VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. 3CUSTOMERS CAN RECEIVE $750 CASH BACK FROM TOYOTA ON VENZA ; $1000 CASH BACK FROM TOYOTA ON RAV4 (EXCLUDES HYBRIDS) AND 4RUNNER (EXCLUDES TRD PRO MODELS); $2000 CASH BACK FROM TOYOTA ON CAMRY OR CAN APPLY CASH BACK TO DOWN PAYMENT. 4VARIES BY MODEL. 0% APR FINANCING UP TO 60 MONTHS ON COROLLA AND CAMRY AVAILABLE TO QUALIFIED BUYERS THRU TOYOTA FINANCIAL SERVICES. TOTAL FINANCED CANNOT EXCEED MSRP PLUS OPTIONS, TAX, TITLE, LICENSE AND DEALER FEES. 60 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $16.67 AT 0% FOR EACH $1000 BORROWED. NOT ALL BUYERS WILL QUALIFY. 5ON APPROVED CREDIT, QUALIFIED BUYERS CAN RECEIVE A $3,000 FINANCE INCENTIVE FROM TOYOTA WHICH IS ONLY AVAILABLE WITH NON-SUBVENTED RATES IF VEHICLE IS PURCHASED AND FINANCED THROUGH TOYOTA FINANCIAL SERVICES. INCENTIVE WILL BE APPLIED FIRST TO THE DOWN PAYMENT. ONE INCENTIVE PER TRANSACTION. NOT ALL BUYERS WILL QUALIFY. ALL OFFERS: OFFERS MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER OFFERS UNLESS SPECIFIED OTHERWISE. DEALER FEES ARE EXTRA. VEHICLE SHOWN MAY BE PROTOTYPE AND/OR SHOWN WITH OPTIONS. ACTUAL MODEL MAY VARY. DELIVERY MUST BE TAKEN FROM DEALER STOCK BY 11/30/20 AND IS SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY. SEE PARTICIPATING CENTRAL ATLANTIC TOYOTA DEALER FOR DETAILS. OFFERS END 11/30/20. 6TOYOTACARE COVERS NORMAL FACTORY SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE FOR 2 YEARS OR 25,000 MILES, WHICHEVER COMES FIRST. 24-HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE IS ALSO INCLUDED FOR 2 YEARS AND UNLIMITED MILES. THE NEW VEHICLE CANNOT BE PART OF A RENTAL OR COMMERCIAL FLEET, OR A LIVERY/TAXI VEHICLE. SEE PARTICIPATING CENTRAL ATLANTIC TOYOTA DEALER FOR DETAILS AND EXCLUSIONS. VALID ONLY IN THE CONTINENTAL U.S. AND ALASKA. ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE DOES NOT INCLUDE PARTS AND FLUIDS, EXCEPT EMERGENCY FUEL DELIVERY. 1

Helo Maritime Strike Squadron 37 saves lives During a rescue operations, HSM -37 Detachment 7, successfully evacuated 19 people who were taking shelter from flooding on top of a levee .

❯❯See B6

SECTION B | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | 11.26.2020

The Navy’s new fitness test is here – What you need to know By MC1 Mark D. Faram

Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON

MC3 Elliot Schaudt Ships from the Royal Australian Navy, Indian Navy, Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the United States Navy participate in Malabar 2020, Nov. 17, 2020. Malabar 2020 is the latest in a continuing series of exercises that has grown in scope and complexity over the years to address the variety of shared threats to maritime security in the Indo-Asia Pacific where the U.S. Navy has patrolled for more than 70 years promoting regional peace and security. Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is currently deployed to the 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Nimitz Strike Group concludes Malabar 2020 with Australia, India, Japan From Nimitz Strike Group Public Affairs INDIAN OCEAN

Maritime forces from Australia, India, Japan, and the United States completed Phase II of the multi-lateral naval exercise, Malabar 2020, November 20. The exercise improved integration between Australian, Indian, Japanese, and U.S. maritime forces and provide an opportunity to conduct engagements highlighting cooperation between allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. “The exercises conducted during Malabar provided opportunities to enhance our interoperability and strengthens our maritime partnerships with India, Australia, and Japan,” said Capt. Elaine Collins, commander, Destroyer Squadron 9. “Our ability to replenish ships at sea, conduct live firing exercises and communicate with one another, ship-to-ship, demonstrates our cooperation and shared goals of fostering security and stability in the Indo-

Pacific region.” With the arrival of Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in Phase II, nations involved were able to further strengthening the integration of their naval air forces through air and air defense exercises. “Operating with Australia, India, and Japan via cross-deck landings, carrier landing approaches and aerial refueling during Malabar has been instrumental in enhancing the compatibility of our naval air forces,” said Capt. Todd Cimicata, commander, Carrier Air Wing 17. “We are honored by the professionalism of our partners, and look forward to flying together again as we reinforce our mutual desire to improve maritime security in the global commons.” The events of Phase II of Malabar included a photo exercise, night operations, air defense exercises, helicopter crossdeck evolutions, carrier landing approaches, underway replenishment approaches, gunnery exercises, and antisubmarine warfare exercises.

“HMAS Ballarat’s participation in Exercise Malabar demonstrates Australia’s enduring commitment to contribute to the security, stability and prosperity of the region,” said Commander Anthony Pisani, Commanding Officer HMAS Ballarat. Malabar 2020 is the latest in a continuing series of exercises that have grown in scope and complexity over the years to address the variety of shared threats to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific where the U.S. Navy has patrolled for more than 70 years promoting regional peace and security. Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is currently deployed to the 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. U.S. 7th Fleet conducts forward-deployed naval operations in support of U.S. national interests in the Indo-Pacific area of operations. As the U.S. Navy’s largest numbered fleet, 7th Fleet interacts with 35 other maritime nations to build partnerships that foster maritime security, promote stability, and prevent conflict.

The Navy will hold a single, sixmonth physical fitness assessment cycle during calendar year 2021, allowing the service to resume fitness testing while limiting Sailor exposure to COVID-19. The cycle was announced in NAVADMIN 304/20, released Nov. 18. The message also detailed rollout plans for the forearm plank, which will replace the curl-up, and the 2000-meter row as a new optional cardio event. “Shifting the PFA cycle to March allows Navy to execute the PFA after the primary influenza season, leveraging outdoor venues as the weather warms,” Vice Adm. John B Nowell, Jr., the chief of naval personnel, wrote in the message. The shift also “acknowledges the fact that while vaccines and therapeutics are expected to be available, their timing and impact are unknown.” July’s NAVADMIN 193/20 announced the spring 2021 restart of the normally semi-annual Navy Physical Fitness Assessments, after two cycles were canceled due to COVID-19. Out of an abundance of caution, the Navy decided to proceed with the single cycle option for 2021 as the COVID crisis shows no signs of abating yet. The Navy will resume two testing cycles once conditions permit. The Department of Defense has long mandated all services conduct annual fitness testing. However, COVID-19 mitigation measures in place since the spring allow services to waive the requirement as a force protection measure. The message notes that permission will carry over to allow Echelon II Commanders to waive the 2021 cycle if COVID 19 prevents its safe execution. Where conditions permit, the message said, all Sailors must participate in the single 2020 cycle, meaning exemptions for scoring excellent or above from the previous cycle will not apply. Going forward, however, those who score excellent or outstanding on the 2021 PFA will be exempt from participation in the first PFA cycle of 2022. The message also details how the new plank and 2000-meter row optional cardio events will fit into the physical testing process as well as how they’re expected to be accomplished and graded. It’s the first major change to the ❯❯

See FITNESS | B7

USS John S. McCain conducts freedom of navigation operation From Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet Public Affairs PETER THE GREAT BAY

On Nov. 24 (local time) USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the vicinity of Peter the Great Bay in the Sea of Japan. This freedom of navigation operation (“FONOP”) upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea recognized in international law by challenging Russia’s excessive maritime claims. In 1984, the U.S.S.R declared a system of straight baselines along its coasts, including a straight baseline enclosing Peter the Great Bay as claimed ❯❯

See NAVIGATION | B7

MC2 Markus Castaneda The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John S. McCain (DDG 56) transits through Peter the Great Bay while conducting routine underway operations, Nov. 24, 2020. McCain is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Helo Maritime Strike Squadron 37 saves lives During a rescue operations, HSM -37 Detachment 7, successfully evacuated 19 people who were taking shelter from flooding on top of a levee .

❯❯See B6

SECTION B | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | 11.26.2020

The Navy’s new fitness test is here – What you need to know By MC1 Mark D. Faram

Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON

Nimitz Strike Group concludes Malabar 2020 with Australia, India, Japan From Nimitz Strike Group Public Affairs INDIAN OCEAN

See FITNESS | B7

USS John S. McCain conducts freedom of navigation operation From Commander, U.S. Seventh Fleet Public Affairs PETER THE GREAT BAY

See NAVIGATION | B7

HeroesatHome TheFlagship Flagship|| www.flagshipnews.com 11.26.2020|||B2 B2 The The Flagship www.flagshipnews.com|||11.26.2020 11.19.2020 11.19.2020 B2 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | B2

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Escaping the holiday To all the turkeys I’ve ruined before shopping vortex By ByLisa LisaSmith SmithMolinari Molinari

By Lisa Smith Molinari

Since Since my my husband, husband, Francis, Francis, never theyears and andI’ve II tied tied the theunderstood knot knot many many years thrill of camping standing in ago, ago, I’ve I’ve cooked cookedout, exactly exactly twenty twenty long lines, and elbowing six six Thanksgiving Thanksgiving turkeys. turkeys.fellow We We ate ate shoppers onof Black Friday, every every one one of them, them, from fromjust their their to get a few bucks off of an white white tenderloins tenderloins to to their their sinewy sinewy Insta-Pot or Nintendo Switch. wings. wings. Molinaris Molinaris are not not known known Frankly, I’d ratherare stick a hot to to waste waste food, food, after after all. all. But But truth truth poker in my eye than fight the be be told, told, not not every every turkey turkey I I cooked cooked holiday crowds the day after was wasperfect. perfect. when I’m usually Thanksgiving, In In fact, fact, quite quiteaaturkey few fewof ofthe thetwentwensucking leftover from my teeth watching movies. ty-six ty-sixand birds birds could couldold best best be be dedeSo when the media reported scribed scribed as as“learning “learning experiences.” experiences.” that Friday had been renAs AsBlack aa newlywed, newlywed, II envisioned envisioned dered by the 2020 myself myself“irrelevant” on onour ourfirst firstThanksgiving, Thanksgiving, coronavirus aproned aproned and andpandemic, waving waving aaI felt basting basting vindicated and relieved. brush brush like like aa magic magic wand, wand, wafting wafting However, I soon learned that gracefully gracefully inhad and and out of our our Black Fridayin notout beenof cankitchen kitchen on on the the delectable delectable scent scent of celled after all — it was merelyof roasting roasting turkey, turkey, simmering simmering crancran“reinvented.” Instead of one berries, berries, herbed herbedshopping dressing, dressing, and and butbutday of holiday mania, tery tery potatoes. potatoes. The The perfect perfect new new the consumer mayhem formerly known Black Friday had Navy Navy wife wifeaspreparing preparing the the perfect perfect been stretched holiday holiday feast. feast. out over October, November December. However, However,and at atage age 27, 27,IIhad hadThe never never prolonged agony nowto been been taught taught how how toincluded roast roast aa online and in-store discounts, chicken chicken drumstick, drumstick, much much less less aa incentives for curb-side pick up whole wholeturkey. turkey.IIhad hadlived livedthe thesimsimto avoid delivery delays, and plified plified life life of of a a single single woman, woman, “Health Ambassadors” to monitor occupancy limits and enforce

subsisting subsistingon onaadiet dietdominated dominatedby by noodles noodles and and eggs, eggs, and and believing believing safety protocols. that that as aslong long asIIcould couldmelt meltcheese cheese Oh, joy. as a womanI’d with beefy on onAs something, something, I’d be befine. fine. upper arms and losingup Although Although II habit had had of grown grown up receipts, ammother a firm believer watching watchingImy my mother cook cook elaboelaboin trying on from and rate rate meals meals fromeyeballing scratch, scratch, II had had items before Iskills would assumed assumed that thatbuying. such such skills were were normally insist on shopping in automatically automaticallybestowed bestowedupon upontaktakstore, but the pandemic restricing ing marital marital vows. vows. And And even even tions have forced even me to ifif cooking cooking wasn’t an an innate innate ability, ability, bend mywasn’t own rules. Against my I’d I’d been been given given the the key key and and esbetter judgment, I reluctantly essential sential wedding wedding gift gift that that would would tried online shopping to buy my show showme methe theway: way: aaBetter BetterHomes Homes 2020 Christmas gifts. on my laptop, was and andOnce Gardens Gardens New New Cook CookIBook. Book. sucked in by flashy digital adspeDespite Despite having having thoroughly thoroughly pepromising “Forty-percent off rused rused the the poultry poultry section section of of this this for a limited time!” and “Free iconic iconic gingham gingham manual manual of of dodoshipping couponto code!” mesticity, mesticity,with II neglected neglected to thaw thaw the the For a moment, I thought that bird bird properly, properly, couldn’t couldn’t decipher decipher I might actually save money. the the cooking cooking time time from from the the comcomAfter creating accounts and acplicated plicated weight weight chart, chart, and and forgot forgot cepting cookies that would fill to to remove remove the the bag bag of of giblets. giblets. Namy inbox with countless junkNaively, ively, I I thought thought basting basting the the turkey turkey emails for months to come, I was was the the ultimate ultimate key keyshopping to to success, success, filled various online carts a variety of gifts for but but IIwith opened opened the the door door so so many many my whole family. times, times, the theoven oven couldn’t couldn’tmaintain maintain “Whoheat knewto enough enough heat toonline cook cookshopping the the bird bird would beTwo so easy and affordproperly. properly. Two hours hours later later than thanexexable!” thought, just before out pected, pected,Iwe we took tookour our Butterball Butterball out keying in the first coupon code. of of the the oven oven and and nibbled nibbled caucauI pressed the return key, excited to see my savings, when I sud-

tiously tiously at at the the breast breast meat, meat, which which was was singed singed because because I’d I’d gotten gotten frustrated frustrated and and turned turned on on the the broiler. broiler. The The next next year, year, II found found the the kitchen kitchen gadget gadget that that would would solve solve my my culinary culinary problems problems — — aa meat meat thermometer, thermometer, which which Better Better denly found myself caught in a Homes Homesvortex and and Gardens Gardens New Newthere Cook Cook digital from which Book Book instructed instructed should should be be ininwas no escape. An into agonizing two hours serted serted intothe theturkey’s turkey’s thigh thighlatfor foraa er, I hadreading. painstakingly discovproper proper reading. The The only only issue? issue? II ered that onewhere coupon had hadno no idea idea where that thatwas was. was.for in-store purchases only, three The The succeeding succeeding Thanksgiving Thanksgiving had expired, although holidays holidays were wereand aacraps craps shoot. shoot.anAfter After other WAS for online purchasone oneyear’s year’sturkey turkeyproved provedto tobe betoo too es, it only applied IF you used small small as as evidenced evidenced by by our our guests guests a store credit card, which we nibbling nibbling at at vertebrae vertebrae in search search of didn’t have. I tried toin avail my-of meat meat morsels, morsels, the the next next year’s year’s turturself of the advertised military key keywas wasso so large, large, our ourrepertoire repertoireof of discount, but it only worked leftovers leftovers lasted lasted until until Christmas Christmas on Tuesdays, and then, only if I’dincluded been pre-approved after and and included turkey turkey sandwiches, sandwiches, scanning and turkey uploading a copy turkey turkey salad, salad, turkey soup, soup, turkey turkey of my husband’s form DD-214. divan, divan, turkey turkey stroganoff, stroganoff, turkey turkey Monday discounts were for first tetrazzini, tetrazzini, and andturkey turkey enchiladas. enchiladas. responders, Wednesdays were After After serving serving one one underdone underdone for seniors, Thursdays were bird bird whose whose bloody bloody juices juices tainted tainted for medical workers, Fridays the the stuffing stuffing and and had had us us all all fearing fearing were for left-handed dyslexics, salmonella salmonellawere poisoning, poisoning, II cooked cooked Saturdays for orphaned the the next next several several turkeys turkeys so so thorthorred-heads, and Sundays were oughly, oughly, eating eating them them required required alfor polka dancers. Or some- alternating ternating bites bites with with swigs swigs of of wawathing like that. end,to only the free ter terInin inthe order order to swallow swallow the the dry dry shipping meat. meat. discount worked, and after completing the transacII received received aa turkey turkey deep deep fryer fryer tion, I realized that I’d paid one one year year for for Christmas Christmas in in hopes hopes prices jacked up to that thatI’d I’dthat find findwere the thekey key to tomoist moist white white compensate for the complicated Black Friday discount schemes.

Courtesy Photo Courtesy CourtesyPhoto Photo

Feeling defeated, I longed for meat, meat, but but after after weighing weighing the subsubthe pre-Internet holidays the of stantial stantial risk risk of of lighting lighting my my own own my youth, when gift lists were shorter, shopping was to hair hair on on fire, fire, II opted opted to tolimited stick stick with with amy couple weeks in IIDecember, my oven. oven.ofThat That year, year, discovered discovered and gaveleg simple items that thatpeople the the plastic plastic leg holder holder doesn’t doesn’t that weremelt appreciated. actually actually melt after after you you forget forget to to Back then, weturkey. relaxedAnother in take take itit off off the the turkey. Another our gabardine slacks at home, year, year, II found found that that aa hair hair dryer dryer making thoughtful crafts like comes comes in in handy handy when when defrosting. defrosting. macrame owl wall hangings And Andpencil the the next next year, year,made II ascertained ascertained and caddies from that, that, no no matter matter what what Martha Martha Stewmayonnaise jars stuck withStewart art says, says, there’s there’s no no need need to to brine bits of masking tape rubbedbrine your your turkey turkey with with fresh fresh juniper juniper with shoe polish. We crocheted awkward berries. berries. sweater vests, made crooked cutting realized boards shopthe II eventually eventually realizedinthat that the class, andThanksgiving fashioned ashturkey trays isis perfect perfect Thanksgiving turkey out of clay. And ifto we weren’t nearly nearly impossible impossible to attain. attain. While While crafty, we in went to old-fashioned stationed stationed in Germany, Germany, II tried tried aa department stores and bought method method of of roasting roasting breast-side breast-side our loved ones modestly-priced down, down, which which resulted resulted in delideliAvon perfumes, English in Leathcious, cious, juicy juicy meat; meat; however, however, the the er cologne, handkerchiefs, ties, finished finished bird bird looked looked like like it it had had tea towels, record albums, Nerf flown flownSlinkys out out of of and aa Zombie Zombie Turkey Turkey balls, mood rings. Apocalypse Apocalypse with with sodden, sodden, hangAh, the good old days…hangOnof second thought, ing ing chunks chunks of pale paleskin. skin. Last Lastyear year Iin hope thisIsland, doesn’tII give in Rhode Rhode Island, tried triedmy the the conconfamily wrong idea.on I may vection vectionthe roast roast function function on my my ovovhave openly disparaged the that en, en, which which produced produced aa turkey turkey that evils of Black Friday shopping appeared appeared to to have have been been electroelectroand extolled the virtues of cuted, cuted, but but was was surprisingly surprisingly ededhand-made gifts, but let’s be ible. ible. clear: I do NOT want to open a Every year, year, II learn learn something boxEvery on Christmas that something contains new, new, and and regardless regardless of of how how my my anything made out of macaroni twenty-seventh twenty-seventh bird bird turns turns out, out, II noodles and yarn. know know I’ll I’ll be be grateful grateful for for at at least least If you are looking for a gift me, I recommend you one onefor thing thing this this Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving: search online and use coupon Thank Thank goodness goodness for foragravy. gravy. code. Size ten, roomy in the sleeves.

Understanding EFMP & Me the Americans Online Tool With Disabilities Empowers Act Military Families With Special Needs From Military Onesource

The Americans with Disabilities Act has been protecting the civil rights of people with disabilities for more than 30 years, making sure they have the same opportunities as everyone else to be part of everyday American life. The ADA ensures that people with disabilities can enjoy job From FromMilitary MilitaryOnesource Onesource opportunities, buy goods and services and take part in state and local government For For families families with with special special needs, needs, the the DeDeprograms and services. partment partment of of Defense Defense Office Office of of Special Special Needs Needs People protected under the ADA are Exceptional Exceptional Family Member Member Program Program proliving with a Family physical or mental impair- proment greatly limits one or more major vides videsthat support support and and resources resources to to help help you you life activities, suchlife. as walking, thrive thrive in in military military life. Now, Now, the thespeaking, new new EFMP EFMP lifting, hearing, seeing, reading, sleeping, & &Me Meonline online tool, tool, available available through through Military Military eating, concentrating working. The ADA OneSource, OneSource, expands expands or and and tailors tailors support support to to covers injured service members with a help help you you quickly quickly navigate navigate services, services, connect connect military disability, such as traumatic brain with with resources resources and and advocate advocate for for yourself yourself or or injury, spinal injury, loss of a limb, vision your your family family member member with with special special needs needs or hearing loss, and post-traumatic stress anytime, anytime, anywhere. anywhere. disorder. Designed Designed for for military military families families with with spespeEmployment cial cialThe needs needs and and with with the the caregiver caregiver in in mind, mind, ADA makes it illegal to refuse to EFMP EFMP & & Me Me people can can be bebased used used by by both both families families hire qualified on disability. Employers are and also required make enrolled enrolled in inEFMP EFMP andthose those who whotoare are eligible eligible reasonable adjustments employees with to to enroll. enroll. The The website websitefor also also gives gives EFMP EFMP disabilities, suchproviders as: Family Family Support Support providers and and military military leadleaders ersFlexible another anotherscheduling tool tool to to guide guide families families to to the the • A parking resources resources they they space need. need. close to an entrance • Allowing service animals in the Ways Ways EFMP EFMP & & Me Me puts puts you you in in charge charge workplace EFMP EFMP & & Me Me can can be be used used on on any any computer computer • Providing special equipment or or Access mobile mobiletodevice device – so soservices you you always always have have goods –and information information and and resources resources at at your your fingertips: fingertips: Per the ADA, businesses that offer •• Help Help understanding and finding finding medical medical goods andunderstanding services to theand public must make and and educational educational resources resources adjustments to how they do business so that people with disabilities can be their

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•• Step-by-step Step-by-step support support for for EFMP EFMP enrollment, enrollment, PCS PCS preparation, preparation, deployment deployment and and other other military military life life moments moments customers. Businesses covered byEFMP the ADA •• Convenient Convenient 24/7 24/7 access access to to EFMP rereinclude: sources sources and and services services from from aa range range of of propro• Grocery stores grams. grams. • Bars and restaurants Begin Begin using using the the tool tool by by answering answering aa few few • Medical offices questions questions on on the the homepage. homepage. Then, Then, you you can can • Gyms select select the the categories categories that that reflect reflect your your needs needs • Sports arenas and concert halls and and interests, interests, including: including: All buildings built since the ADA went into effect must provide easy-to-use access •• About About EFMP EFMP and and Enrollment Enrollment to •people • Child Childwho Care Carehave movement or sensory disabilities. Changes businesses might •• Education Education make include: •• Medical Medical Reading a menu to someone with •••Deployment Deployment impaired vision •• Accessibility Accessibility and and Housing Housing • Providing a large-print copy of a rental ••contract PCS PCS •••Family Family and anda Community Community Life Life Installing ramp •••Separation Separation and and Retirement Retirement Providing accessible parking spaces •••Long-Term Long-Term Financial Planning Planning Lowering aFinancial paper-towel dispenser The The tool tool lets lets you you choose choose from the the checkcheckAccess to public servicesfrom State and local governments lists lists available available in in each each category. category. must Each Eachalso checkcheckfollow rules andto changes list list can canADA be be expanded expanded tomake display display related relatedtotasks, tasks, activities and services. Public services Tips tips, tips, programs programs and and other other resources. resources. Tips include:

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nClinical nClinicalCounselingCounselingCounselingnClinical (Individual, (Individual,Couples, Couples, Couples,and and and (Individual, Child ChildCounseling Counseling Counseling))) Child nPersonal nPersonal Financial Financial nPersonal Financial Management Management Management nInformation nInformation& & &Referral Referral Referral nInformation nFamily nFamilyEmployment Employment Employment nFamily Assistance Assistance Assistance nTransition nTransitionAssistance Assistance Assistance nTransition nFamily nFamilyAdvocacy Advocacy Advocacy nFamily Program Program Program nDeployment nDeploymentand and and nDeployment Mobilization MobilizationSupport Support Support Mobilization nOmbudsman nOmbudsmanSupport Support Support nOmbudsman nRelocation nRelocationAssistance Assistance Assistance nRelocation nParenting nParenting Programs Programs nParenting Programs nStress nStressand and andAnger Anger Anger nStress Management Management Management nCommand nCommandSupport Support Support nCommand nCrisis nCrisis Support Support nCrisis Support nSuicide nSuicidePrevention Prevention Prevention nSuicide nSAPR nSAPRSupport Support Support nSAPR

B3 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020 B3 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR constructs pier system with NAVFAC Southwest, industry partners By Lt.j.g. Eric Fallon Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 Public Affarirs SAN DIEGO

“The difficult we do at once. The impossible takes a bit longer!” Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4 have exceeded even the most ambitious timelines to complete the installation of piles that will ultimately support a catwalk pier system for a Short Approach Lighting System (SALS) at Runway 36 on Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI), San Diego. The effort, carried out in conjunction with Marathon Construction Corporation and Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Southwest, reflects the culmination of months of preparation and embodies the spirit of the Seabee motto, “Can Do!” SALS is a system of lights installed on the approach end of an airfield runway. It includes a row of light bars and strobe lights that extend out from the approach end of the runway. This enables pilots to visually identify the runway from a greater distance and align their aircraft with the center of the runway sooner, which will ultimately enhance the ability of pilots to safely land in conditions of reduced visibility. At NASNI’s Runway 36, the approach end of the runway extends into the San Diego Bay. To extend the SALS, a catwalk pier that extends into the bay was required, which means that piles to support a pier had to be constructed. NMCB-4 and Marathon were up to the task. NMCB-4 closely coordinated their efforts with NAVFAC Southwest and their industry partners to provide this critical project to the air station. The design of the catwalk was provided by Marathon Construction Corporation, a San Diego-based general engineering contractor specializing in marine and heavy civil construction. With their 50-ton crane and their expert partners from Marathon, the Seabee detail spent over two weeks driving 40-foot long piles into the earth.

EA2 Vincent Paul Arnuco Construction Mechanic 2nd Class Andrew Yancy, Construction Mechanic 2nd Class Michael Saldana, and Equipment Operator 3rd Class Enis Pesina assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR (NMCB-4) guide a vibrodriver used for pile driving onto a timber mat, Nov. 17, 2020. NMCB-4 is conducting pile driving for a Short Approach Lighting System for Naval Air Station North Island. Seabees are the expeditionary engineering and construction experts of the naval service providing task-tailored, adaptable and combat-ready engineering and construction forces that deploy to support global Navy objectives.

Executing pile driving operations requires collaboration between Seabees of various rates. Steelworkers in NMCB-4’s San Diego Detail NASNI constructed a template that allowed for precise placement of piles on the beach. Equipment Operators delivered the piles to the site and also operated the crane used to perform pile driving. Construction Mechanics performed frequent maintenance checks on the crane and assembled a 100foot boom extension required for the work. Finally, an Engineering Aide performed an initial site survey and conducted continuous quality control assessments. The Seabee detail conducted multiple Pile Driving Exercises (PDX) this year, developing and rehearsing the techniques and procedures that were necessary to successfully complete the project. The rehearsals culminated in the execution of this real-world project with partners in the private sector, completing the project 12 days ahead of schedule. “We are the first Seabee unit to use a vibrating hammer for pile driving operations instead of the traditional diesel impact hammer,” said ENS Alfred Brown, Officer-In-Charge of NMCB-4 Det NASNI. “The vibrating hammer expands capabilities for Port Damage Repair (PDR) since it allows for more precise pile driving, resulting in a higher quality product. Working with NAVFAC and Marathon on such a major project has been a privilege. We’re proud of what we achieved together

and we’re proud to show our Navy and industry team what we can do!” More than just providing a valuable product to the air station, this project represents a model for industry-government partnerships and marks a renewed focus for Naval Mobile Construction Battalions as mission enablers for the fleet. The Seabees’ Port Damage Repair (PDR) capability enables resilient logistics flow at seaports and Advance Naval Bases in contested environments for forward deployed naval forces. The mission often involves complementary capabilities of other Naval Expeditionary units like those of the Underwater Construction Teams and Explosive Ordnance Disposal. Successful PDR missions ensure the ability of Navy vessels to refuel, rearm, resupply, and repair when and where it is needed most. The NMCB-4 Seabees are preparing to deploy across the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command theater in the next few months. This mission has demonstrated their proficiency with pile driving operations and has enhanced their readiness to execute PDR missions throughout the world. NMCB-4 is based in Port Hueneme, Calif. and provides general engineering, disaster relief, humanitarian assistance and civil support to the Navy, Marine Corps, and joint operational forces through planned deployments and contingency response.

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B4 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

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B6 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

U.S. Navy photo Aircrewman 2nd Class Sultan Sullins rides in an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Easyriders of Helicopter Sea Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37, Detachment 7, with Honduran evacuees as the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110) joins U.S. Southern Command Hurricane Eta relief efforts in Central America, Nov. 14, 2020. William P. Lawrence is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force South mission, which includes counter illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

USS William P. Lawrence, Helo Maritime Strike Squadron 37 saves lives in Honduras From U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/ U.S. Fourth Fleet Public Affairs Office

SAN PEDRO SULA VALLEY, Honduras

The Arleigh Burke-class guidedmissile destroyer USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110) and the embarked “Easyriders” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 37 Detachment 7 completed search and rescue (SAR) operations in the areas affected by Hur-

ricane Eta, Nov. 15. In coordination with Joint Task Force-Bravo (JTF-Bravo) and the government of Honduras, the William P. Lawrence and HSM-37 Detachment 7, supported 10 missions aiding in the rescue of citizens, and delivered 10,500 pounds of supplies. During the rescue operations, HSM -37 Detachment 7, successfully evacuated 19 people who were taking shelter from flooding on top of a levee and

transported them to safety at a nearby soccer stadium. Additionally, they also delivered 1,700 pounds of bottled water. Combined with the efforts of two U.S. Army UH-60L Black Hawks assigned to 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment, JTF-Bravo, a total of 90 personnel were rescued off of the levee. “I couldn’t have been more proud of our detachment, crew and aircraft in

supporting this mission,” said Lt. Cmdr. Adam Rollins, Officer in Charge of HSM-37 Detachment 7. “To be able to actually save lives and help people who have had their homes and livelihood devastated by this natural disaster is what makes our job worth it.” When Hurricane Eta caused devastating damage to Central American countries of Honduras, Panama, and Guatamala, JTF-Bravo was directed by U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) to conduct life-saving efforts in the region. William P. Lawrence, currently deployed to U.S. 4th Fleet, was re-tasked to support. William P. Lawrence is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which includes counter illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

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T-Mobile.com/military During congestion, the small fraction of customers using >50GB/mo. may notice reduced speeds until next bill cycle due to data prioritization. Video typically streams on smartphone/tablet at DVD quality (480p). International data at 2G speeds. Submit U.S. military verification within 45 days at my.t-mobile.com/profile; otherwise your plan will become Magenta at an additional cost of up to $20/line per month. Military individual must be account holder & account must maintain valid military line. Limited time offer; subject to change. At participating locations. Credit approval, deposit, $10 SIM card, and, in stores & on customer service calls, $20 assisted or upgrade support charge may be required. May not be combined with other promotions/discounts and features; existing customers who switch may lose certain benefits. U.S. roaming and on-network data allotments differ: includes 200MB U.S. roaming. Unlimited talk & text features for direct communications between 2 people; others (e.g., conference & chat lines, etc.) may cost extra. Unlimited high-speed data US only. In Canada/Mexico, up to 5GB high-speed data then unlimited at up to 128kbps. Not available for hotspots and some other data-first devices. Capable device required for some features. Video streams at up to 1.5Mbps. Optimization may affect speed of video downloads; does not apply to video uploads. For best performance, leave any video streaming applications at their default automatic resolution setting. Netflix: Offer subject to change. Receive Netflix Basic (1-screen, up to a $8.99/mo. value) while you maintain 2+ qual’g Military lines in good standing. Value may be applied to different Netflix streaming plans. Not redeemable or refundable for cash. Cancel Netflix anytime. Netflix Terms of Use apply: www.netflix.com/termsofuse. 1 offer per T-Mobile account; may take 1-2 bill cycles. See t-mobile.com/netflix for add’l info. Like all plans, features may change or be discontinued at any time; see T-Mobile Terms and Conditions at T-Mobile.com for details. Tethering: 3GB high-speed data then unlimited on our network at max 3G speeds. Smartphone and tablet usage is prioritized over tethering usage, which may result in higher speeds for data used on smartphones and tablets. AutoPay Pricing for lines 1-8. Without AutoPay, $5 more/line. May not be reflected on 1st bill. Int’l Roaming: Not for extended international use; you must reside in the U.S. and primary usage must occur on our network. Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming. Usage may be taxed in some countries. Calls from Simple Global countries, including over Wi-Fi, are $.25/min. (no charge for Wi-Fi calls to US, Mexico and Canada). Standard speeds approx. 128Kbps without Plus; with Plus approx. 256 Kbps. Gogo: on U.S.-based airlines; Wi-Fi Calling functionality, valid e911 address, & 1 prior Wi-Fi call w/ current SIM card required for messaging. Coverage not available in some areas. We are not responsible for our partners’ networks. Network Management: Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated, or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or significant roaming. See T-Mobile.com/OpenInternet for details. See Terms and Conditions (including arbitration provision) at www.T-Mobile.com for additional information. T-Mobile and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. © 2020 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

B7 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Naval Surface Forces announce new Enlisted Surface Warfare instruction By MC2 Wyatt L. Anthony

Commander, Naval Surface Forces Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO

Commander, Naval Surface Forces (COMNAVSURFOR), released an updated Navy Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist (ESWS) program instruction, Nov. 16. The updated ESWS program is set to reinforce a culture aboard surface ships that puts emphasis on Sailors first learning their ratings and watchstations, by giving Sailors more time to focus on obtaining critical in-rate and damage control qualifications before being required to enroll into the command’s ESWS program. The instruction’s release comes on the heels of a more than year-long process in which command master chiefs from the East Coast, West Coast, and overseas, representing an array of surface ships, worked together to develop an instruction that will ensure that Sailors will be knowledgeable and proficient surface warfare specialists. “One goal of this instruction is to increase the overall quality of the surface warfare program,” said COMNAVSURFOR Force Master Chief James Osborne. “The new instruction will increase the number and scope of prerequisites, improve the quality of our programs and increase Sailor and platform lethality.” The new ESWS program comes after similar re-writes of both the Enlisted Information Warfare Specialist and the Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist qualifications that were aimed at promoting the same cultural shifts. Before, all Sailors (E-1 - E-9) were required to obtain their ESWS within 30 months of checking onboard a surface ship. This rewrite targets journeyman and senior Sailors for mandatory enrollment in their command’s ESWS program, unburdening junior Sailors

MCSA Angel Jaskuloski Electronics Technician 1st Class Anthony Joe, right, from Bennington, Nebraska, assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) reactor department, receives his Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist pin from Senior Chief Electronics Technician David E. Barden, Ford's reactor control leading chief petty officer, during a pinning ceremony in the ship's hangar bay, July 29, 2019. Ford is currently undergoing its post-shakedown availability at Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding.

from mandatory enrollment, giving them time back to focus on learning the intricacies of their rating. The new instruction also values experience and initiative, by creating a path for certain E-4 Sailors to enroll in their command’s ESWS program with command senior enlisted leadership approval, and if they meet the following criteria: • Early promote (EP) on their most recent regular periodic evaluation. • Minimum score of 50 on the most recent Navy-wide advancement exam. • Demonstrate exceptional performance in shipboard watchstanding and obtain qualifications in rate normally expected of journeyman Sailors “[ESWS] is truly a journeyman level qualification, and for a Sailor to be a true surface warfare specialist, they have to first have a technical expertise within their rating, understand their watchstanding requirements, and be proficient firefighters,” said Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (COMNAVSUR-

FLANT) Force Master Chief Kevin Goodrich, who is one of the primary authors of the new instruction. “We want to ensure that Sailors are true surface warfare specialists, and not just generalists.” The new instruction will do away with the requirement for all first-tour Sailors to walk away from their first sea-duty command with their ESWS qualification. Sailors will not be required to enroll in a command’s ESWS program until they reach a journeyman or master-level (E-5 - E-9). These Sailors will be enrolled in their ESWS program after 12 months onboard, or at the commanding officer’s discretion, and from there will have 18 months to qualify in ESWS. In attempts to improve damage control and ship survivability, the updated program will add more prerequisite PQS, including the following: • Damage Control 301-312. • Damage Control Watches 301, Sounding and Security.

• Ship’s Maintenance and Material Management (3-M) Systems 301-303. “We are building elite performers,” said Goodrich. “What worked to qualify every enlisted Sailor on the ship is likely not good enough to build surface experts. When a Sailor shows up to a command with an ESWS pin, the gaining command should know that they can count on that Sailor’s knowledge and expertise, immediately.” For more information on the new ESWS program requirements, contact your command’s senior enlisted leadership or ESWS coordinator. COMNAVSURFOR, comprised of Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (COMNAVSURFPAC) and COMNAVSURFLANT, mans, trains and equips all assigned naval surface forces and supporting shore activities worldwide, ensuring capable forces for conducting prompt and sustained operations in support of United States national interests.

Fitness | The Navy’s new fitness test is here – What you need to know Continued from B1 assessment since the Navy introduced fitness assessments in the early 1980s. Sailors have long complained about the curl-up. As Navy researchers studied the exercise, they found it was not a true test of abdominal strength. Also, it did not prepare Sailors to better accomplish shipboard tasks. In fact, curl-ups have been linked to an increased risk of creating or aggravating lower back injuries. The forearm plank, however, is a functional movement required in 85 percent of regular shipboard tasks, including pushing, pulling, lifting and carrying. The forearm plank uses isometric contraction to activate key abdominal and trunk muscles, mimicking the main function of the abdominal musculature - to act as stabilizers to resist the spine from moving while strengthening the lower back. Training for the forearm plank strengthens the body’s core, improves posture, and reduces the risk of lower back injuries throughout a Sailor’s career. Because there is overlap in the muscle groups used for the push-up and the forearm plank, the decision was made to conduct the push-up event first, followed by the plank and cardio portions. This sequence was used in the initial tests. Researchers found it allows for maximum performance on the push-ups while limiting residual fatigue during the forearm plank. The cardio portion’s new addition will be a 2000-meter row on the “Concept-2 Rower.” The other options remain as the 12-min stationary cycle, 500-yd/450-m swim, and 1.5mile run. A non-weight bearing, low impact exercise, rowing reduces stress on the legs, while providing a great full-body cardio workout as it works 80 percent of the body’s muscles. A big benefit of the Concept-2 Rower is that it’s space

Navigation | USS John S. McCain conducts freedom of navigation operation Continued from B1 internal waters. This 106-nautical mile (nm) closing line is inconsistent with the rules of international law as reflected in the Law of the Sea Convention to enclose the waters of a bay. By drawing this closing line, the U.S.S.R. attempted to claim more internal waters - and territorial sea farther from shore - than it is entitled to claim under international law. Russia has continued the U.S.S.R. claim. By conducting this operation, the United States demonstrated that these waters are not Russia’s territorial sea and that the United States does not acquiesce in Russia’s claim that Peter the Great is a “historic bay” under international law.

MCSN Cory Daut Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Noah Moorhead, a Sailor assigned to the deck department aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73), does a plank during command physical training at Huntington Hall, Feb. 14, 2020. George Washington is undergoing refueling complex overhaul (RCOH) at Newport News Shipyard. RCOH is a nearly four-year project performed only once during a carrier 50-year service life that includes refueling the ship two nuclear reactors, as well as significant repairs, upgrades, and modernization.

saving and thus able to be easily used on any naval vessel as well as at shore installations. A detailed description of how each of the new events will be conducted can be found in NAVADMIN 304/20. As previously announced, the Navy will give Sailors a onecycle grace period for the forearm-plank. Though the event will be conducted during the 2021 Cycle, it won’t officially count until 2022. Initial performance standards for scoring the forearm plank and 2000-meter row were developed by the Naval

Health Research Center (NHRC) and are available to both individuals and command fitness leaders on the Navy Physical Readiness Program website at https://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/21st_Century_Sailor/ physical/Pages/default2.aspx. For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mynavyhr, Twitter at https://twitter.com/mynavyhr or visit https:// www.navy.mil/cnp.

U.S. forces operate in the Indo-Pacific region on a daily basis, as they have for more than a century. They routinely operate in close coordination with likeminded allies and partners who share our commitment to uphold a free and open international order that promotes security and prosperity. All of our operations are designed to be conducted in accordance with international law and demonstrate that the United States will fly, sail, and operate wherever international law allows - regardless of the location of excessive maritime claims and regardless of current events. The international law of the sea as reflected in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention provides for certain rights and freedoms and other lawful uses of the sea to all nations. The United States upholds these rights and freedoms as a matter of principle to preserve the freedom of the seas that is critical to global security, stability, and prosperity. As long as some countries

continue to assert maritime claims that are inconsistent with international law as reflected in the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and that purport to restrict unlawfully the rights and freedoms enjoyed by all States, the United States will continue to defend the rights and freedoms of the sea guaranteed to all. The Russian Federation’s statement about this mission is false. USS John S. McCain was not “expelled” from any nation’s territory. McCain conducted this FONOP in accordance with international law and continued to conduct normal operations in international waters. The operation reflects our commitment to uphold freedom of navigation and lawful uses of the sea as a principle, and the United States will never bow in intimidation or be coerced into accepting illegitimate maritime claims, such as those made by the Russian Federation.

B8 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Important Turkey Instant Pot Pork Ragu Cooking Tips You Need to Know we rounded up our best turkey cooking tips, including how to season a turkey, what mistakes Achieving juicy shredded pork shoulder on a to avoid and how to cook a turkey without drying weeknight has never been easier. Instead of it out (yes, it’s possible!), to ensure that the star of roasting for hours in the oven, it cooks in the your dinner can truly shine. multicooker for just 35 minutes (yes, you read that right). ❯❯ See

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Courtesy Photo

18th ANNUAL WWE® TRIBUTE TO THE TROOPS® TO AIR ON FOX Norfolk Festevents Announces Town Point From WWE

“Supporting the United States military year-round is an essential part of FOX Sports’ mission, and partnering with WWE on their Tribute to the Troops is an incredible extension of this ongoing commithot chocolate, while seasonal craft beers, ment,” said Eric Shanks, Chief Executive mulled wine, eggnog, and more will be Officer &for Executive Producer, FOX Sports. available purchase. “This is a unique timelocal and chef we and look Leading up to the event, forward to providing our troops and their culinary historian Patrick Evans-Hylton families with anhis interactive experience that will be sharing favorite holiday drink only WWE can deliver celebrateThe our recipes in a video seriesas onwe Facebook. series beginsand this women Sunday, with Nov. 15, and of servicemen millions occurs every Wednesday andon Sunday our fans watching at home FOX,”prior said to Dec. 5. Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman & The highly anticipated Holiday HomeCEO. coming Christmas Tree serves as the In what is considered TV’s most patriotic Downtown Norfolk Waterfront’s iconic and heartwarming show of the year, WWE centerpiece throughout the holiday season, began Tribute theone Troops 2003holto standing 42’ tall,toand of the in tallest honor our servicemen and women and their iday decorated trees in the city. In addition families and thank them for their to the Holiday Homecoming Tree,continued Town Point Park will feature holiday light displays, wreaths, bows, and garland galore lighting up the park every evening starting November 21, 2020 and will remain open to the public through January 4, 2021. See below for a full schedule of events and a listing of participating Marketplace artisans. Additional details on participating vendors, artisans, and crafters will be posted on Festevents.org. All vendors are subject to change. Town Point Holiday Marketplace & Movie Night Schedule & Details:

sacrifice to our country. In addition to the event, WWE will also be hosting virtual meet and greet sessions with WWE Superstars and military members. Marine Corps Air Station New River in • 2-8pm – Holiday Marketplace North Carolina is home to Marine Aircraft (including local artisans & crafters) Groups 26 –and 29,Trucks Headquarters and Sup• 2-8pm Food & Seasonal port squadron, and several premiere Beverages available for purchase training• units. also serves 4-6pmNew – A River Free Visit from as the East Coast’s wing safe, and tiltrotor Air Santaonly Clausrotary (including Station, with approximately 8,000 Marsocially-distant photo opportunities) • 6-8pm A Free Showing of “Elf” ines, Sailors– and civilian employees. Townmore Pointthan Holiday Marketplace With 37,000 active duty SolParticipating Businesses: diers and Airmen Small assigned to the post along • 5in8 Designs (Jewelry) with more than 100,000 family members, • Abena Aforo Fashions (Jewelry, Fort Hood in Texas is the largest active duty Desin Accessories & Print Designs) armored post in the United States Armed • Baby Alpaca (Apparel & Ornaments) Forces an (Spirits) additional 22,000 • Blueand Skytrains Distillery Reserve Soldiers annually. • Emerson’s Cigars (Cigars) USS JohnHandkind C. Stennis (CVN 74) is a • For All (Ornaments, Jewelry, Glassware & Home Goods) • Got A Light Soy Candle (Candles) • Haley’s Honey Meadery (Honey, Jewelry, Soaps & Candles) • High On Your Supply (Paintings) • Jimmy & Mary’s Authentic Body Care (Soaps & Body Butters) • Peacefrogs (Apparel) • Precise Portions (Spices & Oils) • ShayD. Arts (Jewelry & Crystals) • Ship’s Hold (Watercolor Paintings & Prints) • SuperComp Studios (Stickers &

Holiday Marketplace & Movie Night The 18th annual WWE Tribute to the STAMFORD, CONN.

Troops will air on FOX on Sunday, December 6, adjacent to Sunday’s regional NFL broadcasts.VaViewers with an NFL matchup NORFOLK, airing at 1:00 PM ET can watch WWE Welcome in the 2020 holiday Tribute to the Troops at 4:30season PM ET; with the Town Point Holiday Marketplace viewers with an NFL matchup airing at & Movie Saturday, Dec. 5,at2020, 4:05 PM Night ET canonwatch the special 3:00 from 2pm to 8pm at Town Point PM ET. The event will take placePark inside the along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. state-of-the-art WWE ThunderDome™, Presented by Norfolk Festevents, and include servicemen and women and the Town Point Holiday Marketplace & their families from Marine Corps Air StaMovie Night features a unique holiday tion New River, US Army Post Fort shopping experience with more than Hood, 15 U.S. artisans Navy Aircraft Carrier USS John local and small businesses sellingC. (CVN 74), Naval Air Station aStennis wide variety of handcrafted items, Fallon and Naval Air Weapons including jewelry, paintings,Station candles,China oils, soaps, Lake. apparel, and much more. The Holiday Market also coincides with a free live screening of the movie “Elf” in a safe, socially-distant, family-friendly environment in Town Point Park. The showing of “Elf” will begin at 6pm. This holiday season, Town Point Park serves as a festive outdoor wonderland and is the perfect setting for holiday photos with family and friends with a free, socially-distant visit from the big-man himself, Santa Claus. During the festiviFromguests Hampton Arts enjoy complimentary ties, can also From Festevents

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Nimitz-class aircraft carrier responsible for protecting American interests across the globe. With 4.5 acres of sovereign U.S. territory, 75 aircraft, and a crew in excess of Courtesy Photo 5,000 Sailors while deployed, the John C. ScreenisPrints) Stennis one of the most lethal assets, Usborne (Children’s Books) capable of Books engaging in sustained power Voiajer (Jewelry, Metal Artwork & projection operations in support of U.S. Bags) andWhimsical coalition forces. Wonderhaven (Apparel & The pinnacle in Naval Aviation training, Jewelry) Naval Air Station Fallon Before is the US Navy’s Guidelines To Know Attend“Carrier in the Desert.” As the home of ing: TOPGUN, the airorbase in Nevada’s high • Wear a mask face covering! Only guests covering be permitdesert with trainsa face aircrews and will Navy SEALS ted intothey the event. face coverbefore deployMasks aroundorthe globe. ings are required at all times except Naval Air Weapons Station Chinawhile Lake eating or drinking. in Ridgecrest, CA, covers more than 1.1 • Stayacres six feet Guestsfor areresearch, remillion andapart! is known quired to practice social distancing when development and testing of some of the at the event. Large gatherings at the bar, world’s most cutting-edge weapons, food truck, marketplace, and other attrac-including the Sidewinder & Tomahawk. tions will not be permitted. In the coming WWEsympwill an• Have a fever orweeks, COVID-19 nounceGuests celebrity the world of toms? withguests a feverfrom or symptoms sports and entertainment that will take of COVID-19, or known exposure to a part COVID-19 casetointhe theTroops prior 14broadcast days, willon in the Tribute not be permitted into the event. FOX. • Feel free to bring chairs, blankets, and refreshments! Guests are permitted to bring a chair or blanket to relax in. Guests are also permitted to bring in a personal cooler with food and non-alcoholic beverages. • No pets allowed, in accordance with state guidelines. • Admission is free for children ages 12 and younger. The event is subject to change based on local and state COVID-19 guidelines. For additional information on Norfolk Festevents, go to Festevents.org.

HAMPTON, VA

The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center will host the “Small Works” exhibition from December 12, 2020 through January 2, 2021. While many of the most famous works of art catch our attention due to their grandiosity, the Small Works Exhibition is here to paint a different picture – a miniature one! Artists from around the region were invited to submit From The Artist Gallery miniature and small artworks in any media. The exhibition VIRGINA aBEACH, Va presents wide range of styles, techniques, content, imagery and intent. Wonderful things do come in small packFor those seeking very special giftsgifts! – notes, ornaages – and they make amazing holiday ments, glass, jewelry, ceramics, drawings, “It takes talent to make art tiny. Thoughpaintings, the works are sculpture and more – created especially for Holiday miniature in size, their presence and meaning speaks volgiving, will be featured among the hundreds of tempting umes thetreasures resourcefulness and during ingenuity our visual visualtoarts on display TheofArtists Gal-arts community,” said Hampton Arts Artistic Director Richard lery’s annual sale of hand-crafted artistry. M. Parison, A video Jr. tour of the collection will be posted on the BetsyGallery Henderson, ofCenter Arts onFaceMain in Artists at TheExecutive Virginia Director Beach Art Gloucester, will serve as judge for the20th exhibition. book page began Friday, November . The Boutique exhibition andmost sale popular will be on viewexhibition through December “This is our annual with over 620 23rd, 2020. artworks submitted last year. Because the show falls over ARTISTS GALLERY 10 a.m. to 5time p.m.of theThe holidays, all sold artwork hours can beare taken at the Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturpurchase for that extra-special gift giving. From 3D printed days and 12 p.m. to 4media, p.m. on The ARTISTS works to traditional thisSundays. show always delights and GALLERY is incorporated as a not-for-profit organizasurprises,” said Visual Arts Center Manager Jennifer Morntion, managed entirely by its artist members. The gallery ingstar. provides space for working, exhibiting and showcasing A virtual ceremony will takeartists. place on Saturday, original fineawards art by local and regional The Virginia Beach Art Center is a non-profit organization offering art exhibitions, art classes and pottery classes in a fully equipped center located at 532 Virginia

Annual Artists Holiday Boutique

Beach Boulevard.

Bethany Houston Pagoda

December 12 at 3:00 p.m. in a special episode of The HeART of Hampton, a live-streamed talk show produced by Hampton Arts. The episode can be viewed for free on the Center’s Facebook page. The previously announced Hampton Holiday Fine Arts Bazaar has been postponed until Spring 2021.

The Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center 4205 Victoria Boulevard Hampton, VA 23669 Hours: Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 11:00 a.m.4:00 p.m.

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

C2 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Community

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

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Hampton History Museum Hosts Holiday Events, Monthly Lecture Series From the City of Hampton HAMPTON, Va

The Hampton History Museum brings back two favorites for its lecture and concert series and adds a take home activity this December. Noted historical reenactor Nathan Richardson reprises his electrifying portrayal of Frederick Douglass to share his views in support of women’s rights on December 7. A host of diverse Hampton Roads musical talent brought together by Hampton’s own Tornado Bait will gift the online community with a video album of original holiday music on December 16. Free Heirloom Ornament Making Kits Friday, November 27 – while supplies last

While the Hampton History Museum won’t be able to host its annual Holly Days Open House this year, the tradition will be kept alive through make-athome heirloom ornaments. Beginning Friday, November 27, the museum is offering free kits available for pick up in the museum lobby featuring craft materials to make tin-punch ornaments, God’s eye ornaments and hanky angels. Crafting instructions will be posted on the museum’s website, Facebook page and YouTube playlist. Virtual Port Hampton Lecture: Frederick Douglass Speaks on Woman Suffrage Hampton History Museum Facebook Live Monday, December 7, 7 pm The Frederick Douglass Speaking Tour makes its return to the museum. Poet, author and spoken word per-

former Nathan M. Richardson captures the physical and spiritual essence of the great writer, orator and abolitionist Frederick Douglass. In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment that guaranteed women’s constitutional right to vote, Richardson will share Douglass’ views on women’s rights. As Douglass, Richardson will share the story of his life; followed by an excerpt recital of his 1848 speech to the International Council of Women in Seneca Falls, NY, on “Woman Suffrage.” He’ll conclude the program by answering questions from the virtual audience via Facebook comments about his letters and activism supporting such notable women as Lucretia Mott, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harriet Tubman, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Vic-

toria Woodhull and the role of NativeAmerican Women in the movement. Virtual Front Porch Music Series: Out of the Bag—Carols for an Uncommon Christmas Hampton History Museum Facebook Video Premiere Wednesday, December 16, 7 pm Back for their annual tradition, albeit a virtual one this year, the irrepressible Msesippi and her “grunge-grass” band Tornado Bait, along with special cohost, former Daily Press music and entertainment writer Mike Holtzclaw, present an evening of original homegrown holiday tunes featuring the talents of The Fuzz Band, Bobby Blackhat, Lonely Tear Drops, Anna Tozi, Inferior Brain Power, Ryan Chris and The Rough Cuts, Jack Green, Uglyography and more! After the events air live on Facebook, they can be found under the videos tab on the Hampton History Museum Facebook page, and will be available soon after on the museum’s YouTube playlist and website, www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org

Liberty Ice Pavilion presented by Dominion Energy Opens in Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square From Colonial Williamsburg WILLIAMSBURG, Va.

Family-friendly seasonal fun kicked off Nov. 20 at Liberty Ice Pavilion Presented by Dominion Energy, returning to historic Duke of Gloucester Street in Colonial Williamsburg’s Merchants Square. “We always look forward to the warmth and festivity of the holiday season, especially this year,” said Jeff Duncan, Colonial Williamsburg vice president of real estate. “We invite our neighbors and guests to enjoy the unique shopping and dining of Merchants Square, and also lace up for the magic of a skate, offered in partnership with our friends at Dominion.” This is the sixth season the ice-skating venue has been sponsored by the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation with a generous grant of $100,000. “Liberty Ice Pavilion has become a welcomed fixture of the holiday season in Williamsburg for residents and visitors alike,” said Hunter A. Applewhite, president of the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. “We’re honored to continue sponsoring this festive, familyfriendly venue.” This season the Colonial Williamsburg Resorts offer the Glide Into Winter package including an overnight stay at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge, a Colonial House or the Griffin Hotel, two single-day Liberty Ice Pavilion passes, two Complimentary Skate Rentals and a $10 food and beverage credit good for items at Liberty Ice Pavilion’s Snack Bar. Complimentary outdoor seating on Duke of Gloucester Street, provided by the City of Williamsburg in partnership with Merchants Square, remains available this fall and winter, with plans for placement of portable heaters in outdoor seating areas. Liberty Ice Pavilion is open through Feb. 15 noon-8

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p.m. Sundays through Thursdays as well as Christmas and Presidents Day; noon-10 p.m. Fridays and Valentine’s Day; and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. Single-day passes are $14 and $12 for ages 3-12. A Season Skate Pass is $105 and $90 for ages 3-12. Skate rental and skate sharpening are $5. Snack Bar selections include hot mulled cider, coffee, AMERICAN HERITAGE® hot chocolate, hot dogs, tavern chili, cookies, and Raleigh Tavern ginger cakes. Tickets and additional information about Liberty Ice Pavilion is available by visiting colonialwilliamsburg.org/skate. Additional information about the Glide into Winter package, and reservations, are available by visiting colonialwilliamsburghotels.com or by calling 855-392-3538 toll-free. The health and safety of our guests and staff is our highest priority, and this season’s plans for Liberty Ice Pavilion fully comply with state COVID-19 guidelines for entertainment and public amusements, which currently require a 30 percent occupancy limit, use of face coverings by all participating guests and 10 feet of distancing between participating guests who are not members of the same household.

Face coverings are required while inside Foundationowned buildings and their use is encouraged outdoors as well. Guests are also asked to adhere to social distancing guidelines during their visit to Colonial Williamsburg sites, when walking along Duke of Gloucester Street and in other publicly accessible areas. Colonialwilliamsburg.org lists additional guest comfort and safety guidelines to provide the safest experience for guests, the general public and Colonial Williamsburg’s staff. All Colonial Williamsburg employees have received special safety training prior to limit the risk of spread or infection. The training includes general and site-specific safety requirements such as basic sanitization procedures, use of face coverings where appropriate, and social distancing requirements to follow with colleagues and guests. Signs posted throughout the Historic Area, Art Museums and sites including Liberty Ice Pavilion will remind guests of safety precautions to protect themselves and others from risks associated with COVID-19 exposure. Information on Colonial Williamsburg operations are available online at colonialwilliamsburg.org/update and by following Colonial Williamsburg on Facebook.

C3 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

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New Hermitage Museum Gingerbread House Contest + Display From The Hermitage Museum & Gardens NORFOLK, VA

Just in time for the holidays, the Hermitage Museum & Gardens is excited to announce a new Gingerbread House Contest + Display. The public is invited to build and submit original gingerbread houses for the opportunity to win prizes in Adult, Child, Family, and Viewer’s Choice categories. The houses will be on display inside the museum December 15 to 20 with free admission.

All contest guidelines can be found on the Hermitage website and Facebook event. Entries will be judged by Spencer and the public on four criteria: overall appearance and craftsmanship, use of materials, originality/imagination, and difficulty of design. The winner of each category will receive a VISA gift card ranging from $25 to $100 and the Family category will also receive an annual membership to the Hermitage Museum. Participants must register in advance for the contest by completing an entry form and submitting

it by email by December 1. Entry forms should be submitted to Carrie Spencer, Curator of Contemporary Art & Education, at cspencer@thehermitagemuseum.org. All entries must be delivered to the museum December 13 and 14 between 10 and 4 p.m. Beginning December 5, the museum will also feature festive décor, a holiday origami display by artist Rich Gray, gift items for sale by local artists, and a selection of rarely seen Sloane Family memorabilia. A holiday selfie station will also be available in the galleries. The weekend of December 19 and 20, visitors are also invited to enjoy seasonal tunes and complimentary hot chocolate while viewing the gingerbread house display. The featured artwork for this year’s event was created by Toni Moser, Hermitage Visitor Services Associate. For more information about the contest, please contact Jennifer Lucy, Hermitage Marketing + Design Manager, at jlucy@thehermitagemuseum.org.

C4 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Food

Instant Pot Pork Ragu | So quick, so good By Kate Merker

Achieving juicy shredded pork shoulder on a weeknight has never been easier. Instead of roasting for hours in the oven, it cooks in the multicooker for just 35 minutes (yes, you read that right). Ingredients 2 1/2 lb. pork shoulder, well trimmed and cut into 2-in. pieces Kosher salt and pepper 1 tbsp. olive oil, plus more as needed

2 medium carrots, chopped 1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, smashed 1 c. dry white wine 1 28-oz can whole tomatoes 1 sprig fresh rosemary 12 oz. pappardelle or other wide noodles Chopped parsley and grated Parmesan, for serving Directions Pat pork dry and season with ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper. Set multicooker to Sauté. Add oil and, in

Mike Garten

batches, brown pork, adding more oil if needed; transfer to bowl. Add carrots, onion and garlic to pot and cook, stirring often, until just tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add wine and simmer until reduced to ½ cup, about 10 minutes. Stir in tomatoes (and their juices) and rosemary. Return pork and any juices to pot and stir to combine. Press Cancel. Lock lid and cook on High pressure 35 minutes. Use natural release method for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure. During natural release, in separate pot, cook pasta per package directions. Transfer pork to bowl; discard rosemary. Skim off and discard any fat from liquid. Using immersion blender (or standard blender), puree sauce until smooth. Shred meat into large chunks and stir back into sauce. Serve over pasta and top with parsley and Parmesan if desired.

Lime and Aleppo Pepper Green Beans By Kate Merker

Mildly spicy, earthy (like cumin), and just a little bit fruity, Aleppo pepper adds major flavor to easy grilled green beans. Zesty lime kicks it up a notch! Ingredients 1 lb. green beans (trimmed) 1 tbsp. olive oil Kosher salt 1/2 tsp. Aleppo pepper 1 lime, cut in half Directions Heat grill or indoor grill to medium-high. Toss green beans with olive oil and ½ teaspoon each salt and Aleppo pepper. Grill green beans, turning occasionally, until just tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Grill lime halves, cut sides down, until lightly charred, 3 to 5 minutes. Serve green beans with grilled lime halves for squeezing. Mike Garten

C5 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

Health

Douglas Stutz Navy Lt. Jeffrey Osborn, physician assistant (PA) assigned to Navy Readiness and Training Command Bremerton Branch Health Clinic Bangor demonstrates to Navy Hospitalmen Wendy Dang (right) and Nicholas Gevedon (seated) the Rinne and Weber test(s) routinely used to evaluate hearing loss. Osborn attests that the single best part of his job is training and working with corpsmen.

Navy PA continues to care for COVID-19 caregivers By Douglas H. Stutz, NHB/NMRTC Bremerton Public Affairs Officer

As the effort to help stop the spread of COVID-19 continues, a Navy physician assistant is also supporting care for COVID-19 caregiver’s health, wellness and resilience needs. Navy Lt. Jeffrey E. Osborn, assigned to Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Bremerton’s Branch Health Clinic Bangor, explained how the pandemic has him helping maintain the warfighting capability of commands, as well as providing resources for the command’s health care workers. As a PAt, Osborn works hand-inhand with supervising physicians and surgeons, and is proficient in areas such as emergency medicine and family practice, along with handling primary care issues and overseeing other members of the medical team such as hospital corpsmen. “The current pandemic has caused

massive social upheaval and levels of stress only comparable to multiple deployments,” Osborn explained of the changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “People are having difficulty finding child care and balancing work, parental duties and even fulfilling the role of teachers.” Osborn, who has taken the lead to chair NMRTC Bremerton’s Provider Wellness/Impaired Provider Prevention Program, now strives to ensure patient safety while acting as an advocate for credentialed health care providers. “As with all functions at the hospital, our number one goal is always improving patient safety. In this care prevention, early identification, treatment and rehabilitation of possibly impaired health care providers is the focus,” Osborn said. The program is a Defense Health Agency requirement and is comprised of multiple professions including credentialed provider, mental health and

nursing staff representatives. There are several services that can be provided, including mental health, substance abuse rehabilitation referrals, even help with work schedule issues for someone struggling with significant life events. “We act as a voice of advocacy for staff. Our program provides routine information on building resiliency with a goal of prevention of impairment. Additionally, we focus on early identification and treatment always with the goal of rehabilitation and return to clinical duties,” said Osborn, adding that the program routinely reaches out to the medical community with discussions and briefs on a regular basis, such as sharing during new provider orientation and medical staff meetings. “Now more than ever it is critical that we work together as peers to provide support and feel comfortable checking in with each other to make sure that none of us are struggling in silence,” Osborn stressed. “Medical providers in particular tend to downplay their own problems, trying to focus on providing care. It is up to us to look out for each other.” As Navy Medicine continues to re-

spond to the pandemic’s lingering physical, mental and emotional impacts with a ready medical force ensuring there’s a medical ready force, the added responsibilities have led to concerns about burn-out and complacency. “Health care workers are especially impacted by this as they fill a critical role on the front lines of addressing the pandemic. This has put increased stress on our staff as they work to provide critical care to our community while accepting increased risk of exposure and the fear of potentially spreading of the virus to family and friends,” Osborn said. The Sacramento, California, native’s path to his current position has been based more on the journey than the actual destination. But, he said, the Pacific Northwest has made a lasting positive impression “I enjoy my time as a Navy provider,” said Osborn. The job has unique challenges and opportunities that my civilian peers never get to experience. I can safely say that there is no place that has a similar sense of community and camaraderie as the military. The friendships and experiences will truly last a lifetime.”

Air Force doctor retires after 48 years of service By Air Force Tech Sgt. Adam Keele, 168th Wing, Eielson AFB, AK

When Craig Thomas enlisted as an Aerial Port Squadron Technician in the U.S. Air Force in December 1971, he never imagined he would become a doctor, let alone that he would go on to serve for more than 48 years. “It’s been quite a journey,” said Thomas. He retired this past spring with little fanfare, as the entire Department of Defense medical community was engaged in response to the COVID-19 national emergency. For his final assignment he served as commander and a chief flight surgeon for the 168th Wing in the Alaska Air National Guard. Before assuming command of the medical group, Thomas was the State Air Surgeon for Alaska at Joint Forces Headquarters Alaska, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. His first duty assignment at Norton Air Force Base, San Bernardino, California would eventually lead to a congressional appointment to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. After graduating and commissioning as a 2nd Lt. from the academy in June 1977, he went on to become a Communications-Electronics officer and was station at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida; and Bergstrom AFB in Austin, Texas. Thomas stated that his time at the Air Force Academy helped him be prepared for medical school rigors and balancing his new military career as a communications officer in the Air Force Reserve. Upon graduation from medical school at the University of North Texas in 1990, Thomas reentered Air Force active duty, accomplishing his residency at Carswell AFB in Fort Worth, Texas. His first assignment as a primary care doctor was at Malmstrom AFB, Montana, where he became a flight surgeon

Tech. Sgt. William A Keele Col. Craig R. Thomas, 168th Medical Group commander, 168th Wing, Alaska Air National Guard, is set to retire after over 48 years in uniform, Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, April 8, 2020.

and return to the Reserves to pursue a civilian career as an anesthesiologist. After finding his way to Alaska in 1997 for his civilian practice as an anesthesiologist, he formed a relationship with the Alaska Air National Guard while still serving as a reservist. Once a medical position opened in 2005, Thomas joined the Air National Guard as chief of Aerospace Medicine at the 168th Medical Group, Eielson AFB in central Alaska. When he accepted the position as State Air Surgeon of Alaska for Joint Forces Headquarters, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, he thought it would be his last. Choosing to practice medicine and have direct contact with patients allowed Thomas to stay in Alaska and finish his career as commander of the 168th Medical Group until his retirement this past April. In his civilian career, Thomas maintains a private practice as an anesthesiologist in Fairbanks, Alaska. Air Force Col. Richard Adams, 168th Wing com-

mander, said, “It has been a pleasure to serve alongside Colonel Thomas in the 168th Wing. Doc Thomas’ distinguished career of almost half a century has had many chapters, and the Guardians of the Last Frontier are grateful to have been a part of that epic journey.” Thomas said his most memorable moments during his 48 years in uniform were “events where I was involved with a group, and we were accomplishing an objective or a goal or mission of training or deployment.” From a physician’s perspective, he said, “I’m most gratified from my participation in humanitarian missions.” A highlight of his humanitarian service was in Timor-Leste, a Southeast Asia island nation between Indonesia and Australia, where he provided medical care to underprivileged islanders. Throughout his long career, he accumulated more than 1,715 flight hours, 150 of which were combat hours over Iraq. He also has the distinction of having served under nine different presidents.

C6 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

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C7 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

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Last week’s CryptoQuip answer Have you heard that the vandels destoryed road signs, pulling out all the stops?

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Religious Services For your installation’s religious service times, visit www.flagshipnews.com/ base_information/religious_services

C8 | www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | 11.26.2020

94 cents of every dollar supports programs and services for local military families.