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More than 20 years of serving the Hampton Roads Navy family

Vol. 22, No. 01 Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com | 01.09-01.15.14

MONTEREY RETURNS TO NORFOLK » see HOMECOMING | A7

Chief Personnel Specialist Rafael R. Belarmino greets his family after returning to Naval Station Norfolk aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61). MC2 Sabrina Fine

UNIFORM CHANGES: Uniformity, ﬁt, functionality Chief of Naval Personnel PublicAffairs WASHINGTON

U.S. Navy ﬁle photo The Criminal Investigative Division at Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, displays examples of seized evidences of synthetic drugs, commonly known as “Spice.”

Random Synthetic Marijuana Added to Drug Screening Press Release

Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Ray Mabus announced, Dec. 22, plans to evaluate and redesign elements of the female service dress uniform for both ofﬁcers and enlisted beginning no later than May 2014. SECNAV approved a proposal by Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Bill Moran to redesign the Service Dress Blue (SDB) uniform worn by female Sailors E1-E6 and to redesign the female combination cover for E7 and above. “These changes ensure greater uniformity in our service and ceremonial dress, but more importantly, they send a clear signal that we are one in dress, one in standard and one in team. As you look out across a group of Sailors, you ought to see, not female and male Sailors, but

Sailors,” said Mabus. “I asked the Chief of Naval Personnel to present me a plan that balanced the importance for uniformity with cost and functionality – and he did just that. It’s now over to his team to do the necessary testing and get these uniforms rolled out to the Fleet as soon practical.” The new E1-E6 service dress blue female uniform blends uniformity and tradition. The jumper and dixie cup, tailored for female form and functionality, will match the recently redesigned (but not yet issued) male jumper – closely resembling the iconic image of the “Lone Sailor.” Following completion of a ﬁt evaluation on the female jumper style uniform and dixie cup, there will be a combined ﬂeet introduction of the new female uniform and the previously approved male redesigned SDB uniform.

MC1 Elliott Fabrizio Lt. Heidi Boettger and Chief Yeoman Brianne Dentson model a prototype for the female E-7 and above combination cover, redesigned to more closely resemble the male version.

The female combination cover for E-7 and above will be redesigned to more closely resemble the male version, but will fit a woman’s head in size and proportion. It was clear in the feedback from the recent test that simply issuing a male cover to females did not result in satisfactory fit or appearance. Similarly, lessons learned from the fit evaluation will be used to inform the design of the female cover.

» see UNIFORM | A7

Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, TENN.

As part of a new Department of Defense (DOD) policy, the Navy began testing for synthetic marijuana compounds during random urinalysis, officials announced, Dec. 31. According to NAVADMIN 334/13, testing for synthetic marijuana compounds will be randomly conducted on samples submitted to all drug screening laboratories, and positive results will subject members to disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The Navy expects to test more than 1.1 million samples this year, and a portion of them will be screened for synthetic marijuana. Those that test potentially positive will be forwarded to the Air Force Drug Testing Laboratory at Lackland, Texas for confirmation. “We are testing synthetic cannabinoids – also known as Spice, K2, Herbal Essence and other names – within the standard testing panel conducted for urinalysis samples,” said Lanorfeia Parker, deputy director, Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Office (NADAP).

» see TESTING | A7

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WHILE YOU WERE OUT Check out stories and photos from over the holidays.

» see A6

GOT A QUESTION? CALL NAVY 311 PMW 240 Sea Warrior Program Public Affairs WASHINGTON

It was midnight in the Indian Ocean with a storm bearing down; poor timing to lose access to the carrier’s Intelink Web site. An information systems technician 3rd class petty ofﬁcer (IT3) called NAVY 311 to ﬁnd an expert who could quickly troubleshoot the problem. The NAVY 311 call center representative immediately documented the issue and referred the IT3’s request to the Regional Maintenance Center (RMC) and Intelink Services Management Center (ISMC) help desk. In less than an hour, the ISMC responded directly to the IT3 and resolved the Web site access issue. On the other side of the world, the father of a deployed Marine heard on a Sunday news show that

his son’s unit had taken casualties. He immediately called NAVY 311 to investigate the report. Within 45 minutes, NAVY 311 engaged ChaplainCare, who in turn located the unit’s Chaplain. The Marine was ﬁne, and he was put in contact with his dad. Thousands of stories like these characterize NAVY 311. Whether you’re aﬂoat or ashore, on duty or off duty, NAVY 311 is there for you 24/7. It’s also there for your family. What exactly is NAVY 311? Quite simply, it’s the single entry point into hundreds of help desks, call centers, and support organizations across the Navy. Ask any question about any topic, anytime, from anywhere. Or, call to voice any concerns you might have.

» see NAVY 311 | A7

CNO, MCPON TALK ISSUES The top admiral and top enlisted man in the Navy released another installment, Dec. 19, of the internet video series, “Conversation with a Shipmate.”

» see B1

THE FLAGSHIP’S FREE HOME DELIVERY South Hampton Roads: Get the convenience of your Navy newspaper delivered right to your door for free!

■ how they help You can contact Navy 311 for issues concerning personnel, Chaplain Care, logistics, facilities, training and other needs.

IN REVIEW The Flagship’s “Year in Review 2013” special section features brief summaries from last year’s top stories.

» see C1 Sign up today! Call 222-3965

A2 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

TOLLS WILL BEGIN SOON FOR DOWNTOWN, MIDTOWN TUNNELS WE OFFER: Tactical Lights, Molle Gear, Holsters, Optics, Airsoft, Knives, Tactical Gear & MORE!

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All-electronic tolling will begin on the Elizabeth River Tunnels (ERT) on Feb. 1. The ERT Project is designed to create an efﬁcient, connected transportation network for the region comprised of a new two-lane tunnel under the Elizabeth River parallel to the existing Midtown Tunnel; improvements to existing Downtown and Midtown tunnels; and extension of the MLK Freeway in Portsmouth. The Project will provide the most advanced tolling technology with no toll booths and no slowing or stopping to pay. Tolling will provide improved safety and more lanes and is the fastest way to get the Project completed. Acquiring an E-ZPass will provide the cheapest and easiest option to pay a toll. E-ZPass transponders are now available online at www.driveERT.com or can be picked up at ERT’s full-service Customer Service Center in Portsmouth. This Customer Service Center offers those who would like to pick up their E-ZPass, register and service their transponders, to do so in person.

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■ prices An E-ZPass transponder will trigger the lowest fee - $1.59 or $1.84 for passenger vehicles depending on the time of day. Motorists who don’t have a transponder but register their license plate will be billed the base rate plus $1.59 each time they cross. People who drive through without registering their vehicle will be billed the base rate plus $3.18, bringing the total charge to $5.02 during peak travel times. Courtesy of The Virginian-Pilot

Resolutions: Resolve to protect against ﬂu Naval Medical Center Portsmouth

Start 2014 off in a healthful way by resolving to protect you and your family members from the flu. With influenza now widespread in Virginia, it’s not too late to visit Naval Medical Center Portsmouth or its branch clinics for an annual flu vaccine. It takes approximately two weeks to fully protect the immune system from the strains in this year’s vaccine. This season's FluMist protects against four strains of influenza. The injectable vaccine protects against three strains of flu. Flu immunizations are available at the main medical center in Portsmouth at the Immunizations Clinic from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday,

Wednesday and Friday. The clinic opens at 9 a.m. on Thursdays. Naval Station Norfolk Branch Clinic (formerly Sewells Point Clinic) offers flu immunizations from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 8 to 11 a.m. on Fridays. Admiral Joel T. Boone Branch Clinic at Joint Base Little Creek-Fort Story offers flu immunizations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Wednesdays. Oceana Branch Clinic offers flu immunizations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Dam Neck Branch Clinic offers flu immunizations from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thurs-

day; and 7:30 to 11 a.m. on Fridays. Norfolk Naval Shipyard Branch Clinic offers flu immunizations from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Northwest Branch Clinic offers flu immunizations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. Yorktown Branch Clinic offers flu immunizations from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays. Beneficiaries enrolled to TRICARE Prime Clinics in Virginia Beach and Chesapeake should call to make an appointment for their flu immunizations. For a downloadable version of the flu vaccine schedule, go to the NMCP website at www.med.navy.mil/sites/ NMCP.

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm. Dixon R. Smith Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA): Public Affairs Director | Beth Baker

Editorial Staff Military Editor | MC1 Molly A. Burgess 757-322-2860 news@ﬂagshipnews.com Graphic Designer | Rebecca Soorani Hastings On Liberty Editor / Designer | Tim Rafalski

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The Flagship® is published by Flagship, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense (DOD) or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic.This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the paper, including advertisements, are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DOD, or the Department of the Navy (DON).The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DOD; DON; Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, Inc. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Department of Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. Stories may be submitted via email to news@flagshipnews.com.The Flagship® is published everyThursday by Flagship, Inc., whose offices are located at 150 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, Va. 23510. © 2014 Flagship, Inc. All rights reserved.

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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) Proposed Fare Changes Formal public hearings will be held in January 2014 throughout the HRT Service Area to present details on the proposed HRT system-wide fare increase and changes in HRT fare structure. The same information will be presented at each meeting. These hearings will provide the public with the opportunity to make formal comments on the proposed changes directly to members of the HRT Commission and to HRT staff. Comments can also be submitted in writing to Marie Arnt, Sr. Public Outreach Coordinator, marnt@hrtransit.org, 509 E. 18th Street - Bldg. 4, Norfolk, VA 23504 or on our website at: http://www.gohrt.com/ fares/proposed-fare-policy-changes/fare-policy-changescomment-form/. The locations, dates, and times for the hearings are listed below: January 15th (Wednesday) 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Meyera Oberndorf Central Library – Auditorium 4100 Virginia Beach Blvd., Virginia Beach Served by HRT Bus Route #20 January 16th (Thursday) 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Mary D. Pretlow Library 111 W. Ocean View Ave., Norfolk Served by HRT Bus Routes #1, #3, #5 January 18th (Saturday) 10 a.m.-Noon Indian River Middle School 2300 Old Greenbrier Rd, Chesapeake Served by HRT Bus Routes #15 January 21st (Tuesday) 6 p.m.-8 p.m. TCC-Portsmouth Campus – Forum 120 Campus Drive, Portsmouth Served by HRT Bus Route #45 January 23rd (Thursday) 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Midtown Community Center – Large Meeting Room 570 McLawhorne Dr, Newport News Served by HRT Bus Route #112 January 25th (Saturday) Noon-2 p.m. Denbigh Community Center – Community Room 15198 Warwick Blvd. Newport News Served by HRT Bus Route #106, #108 January 27th (Monday) 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Huntersville Recreation Center – Community Room 830 Goff Street, Norfolk Served by HRT Bus Route #8, #23 January 29th (Wednesday) 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Thomas Nelson Community College – Moore Hall- Espana Room 525 Butler Farm Road, Newport News Served by HRT Bus Routes #110, #111, #118

For more information, please call 757-222-6100 or visit: www.gohrt.com. Para más información en español, por favor llame 757-222-6000 For the latest weather updates and up-to-the-minute weather alerts, go to www.wtkr.com/weather.

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | A3

NMCP WELCOMES FIRST BABY OF 2014 U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Austin Schlossers U.S. Soldier Spc. Erica Corley with the Armed Service Blood Bank Center (ASBBC) opens an ice box of donated blood on Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan, Nov. 15, 2013.

By MC2 (SW) Anna Arndt NMCP Public Affairs

Military blood program director urges generosity By Jim Garamone American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON

Air Force Col. Richard H. McBride wants all service members to be part of a new arms race. McBride, the director of the Armed Services Blood Program, wants service members to roll up their sleeves and donate blood to help their fellow service members and their families. Historically, blood levels shrink around the holidays, and since 1970 January has been declared National Blood Donor Month. “January, just like the summer months, is a time when there is a decrease in the blood supply, primarily because people are preoccupied with the holidays,” McBride said during a recent in-

save lives To learn more about giving blood, or to find a local blood drive and make an appointment, visit www. militaryblood.dod.mil/nmcp.

terview. “This is a great time to encourage donors and keep them aware that we need donations 12 months a year, not just in the summer.” The Armed Services Blood Program is dedicated to ensuring that service members who need blood, get it. And the medics involved with the program have been getting a workout. The ﬁghting overseas has consumed a lot of blood resources, McBride said. One injured service member may need 40 units of blood in order to get back home. “It’s a sacred mission that we hold in our hearts,” the colonel said. The program’s staff wants to ensure that every Wounded Warrior that can make it home does come home. “We never want to hear that they didn’t come home because they didn’t have enough blood,” McBride said. The program also provides blood products for stateside service members and family members. “Right now we collect about 10,000 units per month – about 120,000 a year,” said

PORTSMOUTH

Photos by MC2 (SW) Anna Arndt Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Ashley Ross gave birth to Suri Zola Ross, a healthy baby girl on Near Year’s Day. Ross currently lives in Virginia Beach and is the Assistant Leading Petty Ofﬁcer in the chapel at Naval Air Station Oceana.

McBride, who hails from New York City’s borough of Queens. “In peacetime, it can go as low as 90,000 [units] per year, but at the height of Operation Iraqi Freedom we were collecting about 150,000 to 160,000 a year.” One blood donation can result in four products. Red blood cells are what give blood its color and what a person needs if he or she is in danger of bleeding to death. Blood plasma is the strawcolored liquid that has clotting factors in it. Doctors use plasma to prevent bleeding. Platelets are blood cell

fragments and also help accelerate clotting. A ﬁnal blood product is cryoprecipitate, which is also used to accelerate clotting. Doctors also use whole blood and there have been times during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan where doctors had to transfuse whole blood to Wounded Warriors. In times of crises, doctors sometimes must turn to “the walking blood bank.” This is an emergency whole blood collection from service members. “It’s deﬁnitely not planned, but we train for it,” McBride

Naval Medical Center Portsmouth welcomed its ﬁrst baby of 2014 at 12:35 a.m. on Jan. 1. Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Ashley Ross gave birth to Suri Zola Ross, a healthy baby girl who weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20 inches long. Ross’ due date was Jan. 6, but the baby made her debut early. After 13 hours in labor on New Year’s Eve, baby Suri came into the world shortly after midnight, to the delight of the medical center staff. “It was awesome,” said Ross. “From the time I came in and was checked in and triaged to this point, I have no complaints at all. Everyone [at the hospital] has been really good. They have really good customer service.” Suri was the earliest New Year’s baby at NMCP in more than 10 years. In all, 11 babies were born at NMCP on Jan. 1.

said. “In those cases, we ask everyone to roll up their sleeves and donate at a moment’s notice.” He continued, “We’ve never had a problem with people donating” blood throughout all the military operations. “Our troops donate, and those deployed have no problem rolling up their sleeves if they are available to save another warrior’s life,” he said. The blood program follows all Food and Drug Administration rules, even in a war zone, McBride said. The Armed Services Blood

Program has 21 blood centers in the United States and overseas. Blood donors must be 18 or older, in good health and free of any blood-borne infectious diseases. The armed services program accepts donations from service members, family members, DOD civilians, contractors and veterans, the colonel said. The typical donation takes about 45 minutes, he said, and it could save the lives of several military brothers or sisters thousands of miles away. “You can help bring them back to their families,” McBride said.

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A4 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

COMREL

SUBLANT ANNOUNCES 2013 BATTLE ‘E’ WINNERS By Kevin Copeland Submarine Force Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK

Vice Adm. Michael J. Connor, Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) announced the winners of the 2013 Battle Efﬁciency (Battle "E") competition, Jan. 1. "Bravo Zulu and congratulations to all of the awardees," said Connor. "The competition for these honors is always extremely keen, and being the recipient of the Battle “E” should be a source of great pride to each and every crew member." The Battle “E” competition is conducted to strengthen individual command performance, improve overall force readiness, and to recognize outstanding performance. The award symbolizes the overall readiness of the command to carry out its assigned wartime tasks as a unit of the Atlantic Submarine Force. Based on a year-long competition, one submarine from each submarine squadron in the Atlantic Fleet is recognized. The awards are presented by the commodore of each squadron to the submarine under their command which has demonstrated the highest level of battle readiness during the evaluation year. The 2013 COMSUBLANT Battle "E" winners, their homeports, and commanding ofﬁcers are: Commander, Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 4 (Groton, Conn.) – the Virginiaclass attack submarine USS Missouri (SSN 780), commanded during the competition by Cmdr. Michael Luckett. SUBRON 6 (Norfolk) – the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714), commanded by Cmdr. Gregg Zettler. Commander, Submarine Development Squadron 12 (Groton, Conn.) – the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Dallas (SSN 700), commanded by Cmdr. Jack Houdeshell. SUBRON 16 (Kings Bay, Ga.) – the Ohioclass guided-missile submarine USS Georgia (SSGN 729) (Blue) commanded during the competition by Capt. Daniel Christofferson and USS Georgia (SSGN 729) (Gold), commanded during the competition by Capt. Rhett Jaehn. SUBRON 20 (Kings Bay, Ga.) – the Ohioclass ballistic-missile submarine USS Wyoming (SSBN 742) (Blue), commanded during the competition by Cmdr. Barry Rodrigues and USS Wyoming (SSBN 742) (Gold) commanded by Cmdr. Chris Nash.

TR SAILORS LEND A HAND AT THE LIBRARY Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) help clean the Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Norfolk Public Library grounds during a community relations outreach organized by the ship’s Command Religious Ministries Department (CRMD).

By MC2 Gregory White USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

NORFOLK

Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) cleaned up the grounds at the Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Norfolk Public Library, Dec. 18. TR Sailors volunteered to wash windows, rake leaves, and pick up trash on and around the library’s property. The carrier’s Command Religious Ministries Department (CRMD) has had an ongoing outreach program relationship with the library for more than a year, and periodically sends a group of Sailors from the command to volunteer their time. “We come here to help and assist the Pretlow Library custodian staff,” said Religious Programs Specialist 2nd Class Michael K. Judge. “They only have two women working here to maintain the whole building. This is a pretty

Photos by MC2 Gregory White Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) pose for a photo in front of the Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Norfolk Public Library, after cleaning the library’s grounds.

big building, and they do it on a regular basis.” Celestine Waters, a custodian for the library, expressed her gratitude for the help from the Sailors. “I’ve been doing this kind of

work for 25 years,” said Waters. “I’ve been here for two. Don’t get me wrong, the building is clean, but we are only two women. We really appreciate these folks coming here to help us out.”

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FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | A5

USS Stout celebrates halfway point and holidays in Limassol By MC2 Amanda R. Gray Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

LIMASSOL, CYPRUS

MCSN Karl Anderson Capt. Sara Joyner, Commander, Carrier Air Wing 3, and Lt. Cmdr. Eddy DePuy exit an E-2C Hawkeye, assigned to the “Seahawks” of Airborne Early Warning Squadron 126, on the ﬂight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman.

CVW-3 CHANGES COMMAND USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs USS HARRY S. TRUMAN, AT SEA

Command of Carrier Air Wing 3 (CVW3) changed hands during a change of command ceremony on board USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Dec. 22. Capt. Sara Joyner, Commander, CVW-3 (CAG), was relieved by the air wing’s Deputy Commander (DCAG), Capt. George Wikoff, during the ceremony. Joyner led CVW-3 through pre-deployment carrier qualifications and more than half of Truman’s 2013-2014 deployment, during which, the air wing’s squadrons have flown more than 8,900 hours and 1,500 sorties in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). CVW-3 has logged more than 19,700 flight hours and 7,000 sorties since the start of Truman’s deployment, July 22. While she said there are many memorable moments of the deployment, Joyner said it was the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group’s delayed deployment in February that truly defined the spirit of the air wing and strike group. The delay was a result of sequestration and a change in aircraft carrier requirements in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. “I asked that we make the best out of what was no doubt a huge challenge for us but also an opportunity to increase our readiness,

better prepare our families and deploy as a better, more capable team,” she said. “When I flew aboard in an F/A-18, July 22, to being our deployment, the energy was back, the teamwork was there and there was no doubt that our warfighting capabilities were honed. I can’t be more proud of the Battle Axe and Truman team – they weathered the storm, seized the opportunity and triumphed over adversity.” Joyner spoke highly of Wikoff as he prepared to take command of CVW-3. “Capt. Wikoff is one of the most dedicated and capable officers I have had the pleasure of working with during my 24-year career,” she said. “I know that he along with his DCAG, Capt. [Jeffrey] Anderson, will make an incredibly effective team. He has clear vision, understands where to take the air wing next and sets a high bar.” Joyner will report to Joint Forces Staff College in January with a follow-on assignment to Commander, Naval Forces Atlantic. Wikoff, who has deployed six times on four different aircraft carriers, has previously served as commanding officer for Strike Fighter Squadron 122, and both attended and instructed at the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School, also known as “Top Gun.” “CAG Joyner will leave a legacy of leadership grounded in a genuine respect and appreciation for the contributions by every member of the Battle Axe Team,” Wikoff said. “I am excited to be a member of this high performing team and look forward to the next 18 months as CAG. We will remain focused on the tasks at hand, supporting Soldiers, Marines, Airmen and Sailors on the ground in Afghanistan with the precision in execution demanded on every sortie.”

N THE RADAR

and unselﬁshly donated gifts, cards, and care packages to team Stout this year,” said Alpigini. “The unwavering support of so many is a constant reminder that we serve a grateful nation.” The Chiefs Mess, wardroom, Moral, Warfare, and Recreation, and First and Second Class Petty Ofﬁcer Associations all donated money to purchase large items like tablets, Kindles, laptops, gift cards, and many other items to give away as well. “This was one of the best Christmases I have ever had on the ship,” said Operations Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Domenech. “All of the organizations worked really hard to put this together. We gave away some really amazing gifts and there was so much donated. This was a very successful holiday and halfway point celebration.” Stout is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operation. Sailors stand by their lines on the forecastle of the Arleigh Burke-class guidedmissile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55), as the ship pulls into Limassol for Christmas.

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Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guidedmissile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55) celebrated the holidays and the halfway point of their deployment in Limassol, Dec. 24. Since Stout’s departure from her homeport in Norfolk, the ship has supported ballistic missile defense in the Mediterranean, participated in three multinational exercises, and maintained an active and vital presence in the area. “It’s important to celebrate the holidays and recognize the halfway point as a way to pause for reﬂection on the meaning of what we do for the protection of peace and freedom,” said Cmdr. Robert Alpigini, Stout’s commanding ofﬁcer. “It also recognizes the accomplishments that the Stout team has achieved thus far on deployment.” The festivities began on the mess decks with a large

meal prepared by the ship’s culinary specialists. The meal included whole roasted pig, turkey, prime rib, a variety of side dishes, desserts, and a decorated cake. “The culinary specialists did an amazing job. I absolutely loved the stuffing and the roasted pig,” said Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Amber Barnes. “Then we all went out onto the flight deck to continue the celebration. The friendship lights had been hoisted, a tree had been set up, and there were stockings everywhere. It looked beautiful.” The entire crew gathered together on the flight deck for a large gift exchange. A number of organizations like Soldiers Angels, Project Santa, Jim and Rita Toepfer, Project Package, Vietnam Veterans of America and many more donated food, stockings, games, candy, cards, stuffed animals and a variety of other gifts so that each Sailor could open something. “I greatly appreciate the many organizations and individuals who so graciously

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See more of this week’s S deployment photos & submit d your own! Visit On The Radar y at a Flagshipnews.com.

Grantham University 7200 NW 86th St., Kansas City, MO 64153 Grantham University is accredited by DETC. The Mark Skousen School of Business at Grantham University has been awarded the status of Candidate for Accreditation by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). Copyright © 2014 Grantham University. All rights reserved. Job# p.13.267

A6 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

:KLOH \RX ZHUH RXW ■ over the holidays

Below are some photos and stories that took place during the holiday break. The Flagship would like to wish you and your families a prosperous and happy New Year!

USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT Ships moored at Naval Station Norfolk display holiday lighting part of Naval Station Norfolk’s annual holiday celebration. Photos by MCSN Edward Guttierrez III.

F/A-18 HORNET ON USS ROOSEVELT USS MAHAN

USS BATAAN

Families join Lincoln Sailors for Christmas dinner The dinner table’s main attraction? A 75-pound roast beef.

By MC3 B. Thomas Liston USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS

Sailors with Christmas day duty aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) were treated to a special dinner aboard the ship’s Floating Accommodation Facility. Sailors and their families gathered on the mess decks to enjoy a special meal prepared by Lincoln’s food service division. “A lot of hard work went into pre-

paring this meal for the duty section,” said Capt. Karl O. Thomas, Lincoln’s commanding ofﬁcer, who joined the Sailors for Christmas dinner. “This is a way to show our appreciation for our shipmates who are on duty and standing watch.” The dinner started at 2 p.m. and lasted until 5 p.m. to accommodate family arrivals and departures. “We started early to allow watch standers and Sailors who don’t have family joining them to eat,” said Culinary Specialist 3rd Class James Smith, a chef in Lincoln’s galley.

“This allows everyone to not only eat, but allows them to enjoy the meal as well.” The dinner’s main culinary attraction was a 75-pound roast beef, which the cooks began preparing at 4 a.m. Christmas morning. “Starting it at 4 a.m. was the only we could make sure that it was cooked all the way through and ready for the families to enjoy,” Smith said. Lt. David Duprey, a chaplain aboard Lincoln, sang Christmas carols with the families throughout the dinner. “It’s my way of spreading holiday

cheer,” said Duprey. Lincoln is currently in Newport News undergoing a refueling complex overhaul (RCOH). Lincoln is the ﬁfth ship of the Nimitz-class to undergo an RCOH, a major life-cycle milestone. Once RCOH is complete, Lincoln will be one of the most modern and technologically advanced Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in the ﬂeet and will continue to be a vital part of the nation’s defense. For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), visit www.navy.mil/ local/cvn72/.

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | A7

homecoming

| Ofﬁcials: Further

UNIFORM

changes to female uniform likely Continued from front New uniform items will be evaluated for fit, comfort and durability. Fleet introduction will begin following approval of the final design and completion of the manufacturing process. The final timeline and costs of the new items will be determined following the wear test. “We are moving out with our plan to test these new uniforms items this spring,” said Moran. “After a thor-

ough testing, elements of these uniforms will begin to be introduced.” Feedback from a May 2013 uniform survey was instrumental in the development of these changes. More than 1,000 female ofﬁcers and enlisted participated in the internal study which looked at level of satisfaction when wearing the male combination cover, dixie cup and the winter jumper style uniform. “Loud and clear we heard their feedback – ‘don’t simply

put us in men’s uniforms,’” said Moran. “We are taking the needed time to develop and test uniforms that more closely resemble their male shipmates, but are designed to ﬁt female Sailors.” Uniform ofﬁcials say that further changes to female uniforms are likely, as the uniform board reviews and deliberates additional ways to improve uniformity and functionality. For more information, visit http://goo.gl/XMV4p2.

MC2 Sabrina Fine Family and friends of Sailors on board USS Monterey watch as the ship returns to NAVSTA Norfolk.

USS Monterey completes 5th and 6th Fleet deployment By Lt. j.g. Timothy Davey and MC2 Billy Ho

NAVY 311 is focused on achieving ﬂeet customer service excellence through modern technology, timely feedback, and increased operational efﬁciency.

USS Monterey Public Affairs

NORFOLK

Courtesy photo

NAVY 311

| More than half a million

contacted NAVY 311 in 2013 Continued from front The NAVY 311 capability is not a new service or program start, but rather a new name for the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) component of the Navy’s Distance Support (DS) capability, which was established in March 2007 by the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO). “With NAVY 311, Sailors have an easy-to-remember point of entry – via phone, email, Web, text, chat – to get on-demand non-tactical, non-emergency information assistance 24/7, classiﬁed or unclassiﬁed,” said Kris

Leonard, NAVY 311 Project Director. “And, the NAVY 311 call center is available to the ﬂeet, Sailors and their families, DOD civilians, contractors and the occasional inquisitive citizen.” Over 500,000 people have contacted the NAVY 311 network of participating providers since the beginning of 2013. That means NAVY 311’s provider community is servicing more than 2,000 cases every day. NAVY 311 is focused on achieving ﬂeet customer service excellence through modern technology, timely feedback, and increased op-

erational efficiency. “It’s not what you know, but who you know. You get it fixed faster if it goes to the right person the first time,” explained Cmdr. Rafael (Ray) Acevedo, Navy Distance Support Program Manager. “Whatever your need, NAVY 311 is there to help. The problem could be with a hardware system or include services such as personnel, Chaplain Care, logistics, facilities, training and other needs. By removing the burden from the Sailor trying to navigate the shore infrastructure, NAVY 311 connects their problem to the appropriate service provider.”

Guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) and embarked air detachment, the “Vipers” of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 48, returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Jan. 5, after completing a nine-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations. Monterey deployed April 8 as a ballistic missile defense ship, in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the assigned operating areas. “Monterey’s crew performed amazingly throughout these nine months, contributing so much more to Navy operations during this deployment than was originally intended,” said commanding ofﬁcer Capt. Rick Cheeseman. “Beginning with numerous maritime security operations in the 5th Fleet area of operations, we answered the call and supported 6th Fleet as well, maintaining a robust maritime presence in the Eastern Mediterranean. Along the way, the Sailors were able to experience port calls in some of the area’s most historic places.” Shortly after entering 6th Fleet in April, Monterey conducted an exercise with Albanian authorities in the vicinity of Porto Palermo, Albania, as part of a continuing effort between the U.S. and Albania to improve Albanian maritime domain awareness. Monterey transited the Suez Canal May 4 to begin its mission in 5th Fleet. During her time in 5th Fleet, Monterey served as Commander, Task Force (CTF) 50 for three carrier strike groups. As commander, Monterey was responsible for the

readiness and support of Navy ballistic missile defense ships in the region. Monterey also participated in two theater security cooperation exercises, two joint air defense exercises, and many other training exercises. In addition to operating under national tasking in CTF 50, Monterey was also assigned to Coalition Task Force (CTF) 152, a multinational task force comprised of members of the Gulf Coalition Council, along with representatives from the United States and United Kingdom. While assigned to CTF 152, Monterey assisted with theater security cooperation engagements with regional partners while conducting maritime security operations. In conjunction with these operations, Monterey’s visit, board, search and seizure team visited more than 50 dhows to collect and share information about the local maritime environment. Monterey returned to 6th Fleet, Oct. 20, after ﬁve months operating in 5th Fleet. She relieved USS Barry (DDG 52) on station in the Eastern Mediterranean. While deployed with Monterey, the “Vipers” ﬂew 556 hours, providing security and supporting the ship’s missions. Monterey conducted 11 port visits throughout the deployment, allowing Sailors to explore and experience new cultures, as well as rest and relaxation prior to the next underway. “I joined the Navy to see the world,” said Fire Controlman 3rd Class Brandho Linao. “During this deployment, Monterey took me to a whole new part of the world, the Middle East, where I experienced a totally different and more restricted culture. This made me appreciate more the freedom that we have in the States.”

“A POWERHOUSE. ‘Lone Survivor’ laces action with moral questions that haunt and provoke. Ben Foster, Emile Hirsch and Taylor Kitsch add to the impact.”

TESTING | Nearly

1 percent of troops may be using spice Continued from front The change will be largely transparent to the command, requiring no changes to the way they currently collect and ship urine samples for drug testing. In contrast to the Navy’s previous synthetic drug testing program, no action is required by the command to have random synthetic drug

testing performed on the samples that are submitted. The DOD estimates that nearly 1 percent of military personnel may be using synthetic marijuana. In ﬁscal year (FY) 2012, illicit marijuana use among active duty military personnel was 0.43 percent and for the entire DOD the prevalence rate was 0.64 percent. FY 2013 testing for Navy person-

Peter Travers

nel indicated that .09 percent of all samples were positive for marijuana. If a member uses, possesses, promotes, manufactures, or distributes synthetic drugs, they face disciplinary action that could result in unfavorable separation from the Navy. According to Parker, the Navy’s policy on substance abuse is zero tolerance. “Substance abuse puts lives and missions at risk, undercuts unit readiness and morale, and is inconsistent with our Navy ethos and core values of honor, courage, and commitment,” said Parker.

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A8 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

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CSADD announces 2014 monthly topics The Navy announced the 2014 monthly topics for chapters of the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) to emphasize in their awareness and peer mentorship efforts, Dec. 31, in NAVADMIN 335/13. » see B5

SECTION B

F L AG S H I P N E W S . C O M

01. 0 9 . 14

Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert has lunch with Sailors aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64).

MCC Peter D. Lawlor

CNO, MCPON TACKLE IMPORTANT ISSUES ON NEW ‘CONVERSATION WITH A SHIPMATE’ By MCC Julianne Metzger Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs

WASHINGTON

The top admiral and top enlisted man in the Navy released another installment Dec. 19 of the internet video series, “Conversation with a Shipmate.” Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mike DiMestico interviewed Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert and Master Chief Petty Ofﬁcer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens aboard

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). The leaders recently visited the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group that is currently supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. With USS Gettysburg (CG 64) alongside the carrier, Greenert and Stevens answered questions that are hot topics among Sailors in the ﬂeets. The three discussed a wide berth of issues: deployment lengths, budget cuts to uniform updates and advancement exam changes.

DiMestico used CNO’s recently released Position Report as a starting point for the interview, questioning what 2014 holds for the Navy. “We’ve heard you loud and clear when you’ve said presence is out mandate,” said DiMestico. “What is the key in 2014 in maintaining that global presence?” Greenert said the key will be to have rotational forces forward from the east and west coasts; and then he went on to emphasis another important element, ‘places.’ Greenert explained that non-rotational forces will play

Harry Gerwien | Military Newspapers of Virginia

Local Navy hero, SEAL pens autobiography By David Todd Contributing Writer

U.S. Navy archive photo The Pentagon announced changes in imminent danger pay that will go into effect June 1, discontinuing imminent danger pay in 20 land, sea and air areas.

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON

The Defense Department announced changes in imminent danger pay that will go into effect June 1, DOD spokesman Army Col. Steven Warren told reporters, Jan. 3. “This is a process that began [in 2011],” he said, and “included indepth threat assessment from the combatant commands. It was made in coordination with the Joint Staff, combatant commands and military services.” Warren noted this policy change

■ where imminent danger pay remains Imminent danger pay will remain in effect for the following: Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Jordan, Pakistan, Syria, Yemen and Egypt

was not a budget-driven decision, but part of a routine recertiﬁcation that “happens every couple of years – it’s an ongoing process.” According to a DOD news release announcing the recertiﬁcation, the

combatant commands conducted indepth threat assessments for countries within their areas of responsibility. Following the review, the release stated, it was determined that the imminent threat of physical harm to U.S. military personnel due to civil insurrection, civil war, terrorism or wartime conditions is signiﬁcantly reduced in many countries, resulting in the discontinuation of imminent danger pay in those areas.

» see PAY | B3

Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs

NORFOLK

Military renters in Hampton Roads privatized (PPV) housing community will assume some responsibility for the energy they use as the Residential Energy Conservation Program (RECP) enters the live billing phase here. The ﬁrst statements will reach residents in mid-February. In September 1998, Department of Defense issued a policy to transfer

responsibility for the consumption of utilities from privatized (PPV) housing projects to residents. The Navy began implementing the RECP program in Hawaii in 2011 and now all Navy installations in the U.S. are participating or preparing to participate in the program. Research shows that residents use about 20 percent less in utilities when they are directly responsible for utility usage. The RECP helps to bring PPV utility usage in line with usage in private communities, and any sav-

NORFOLK

Over the holiday season I had an opportunity to read “The Trident: The Forging and Reforging of a Navy SEAL Leader,” written by Lt. Jason “Jay” Redman with John R. Bruning. The book was written as an autobiographical account of Redman’s life and experiences as a Navy SEAL and the recovery period he endured as a result of injuries he sustained while on active duty. “After four years of surgeries while I was recovering, I really started to reﬂect on the career that I had and I started to write [those experiences] down,”

■ Got RECP questions? A Navy Representative will be available to answer your questions and discuss RECP at ings are reinvested into the project the Village of Whitehurst Farm Community Center: for long term sustainability. Since July, Hampton Roads PPV residents have been receiving Jan. 13 – 1 to 4 p.m. a monthly “mock” statement that Jan. 14 – 8 a.m. to noon shows how their usage compares to the Normal Usage Band for their To encourage and assist residents similarly sized housing units in the to understand and control their neighborhood. Residents who use usage, Lincoln Military Housing less than the Normal Usage Band and the Navy have been providing will earn a credit or rebate and resi- energy audits to identify life-style dents who use more than the upper or maintenance actions that help Normal Usage Band will pay for adjust energy consumption. Instalexcess consumption. lations have held informational

NAVY COMMENCES RESIDENTIAL ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM By Jim Moir

» see VIDEO | B7

Lt. Jason “Jay” Redman, a former Navy SEAL and founder and executive director of Wounded Wear, was named the 2013 Still Serving Veteran of the Year in December of last year.

Pentagon announces upcoming changes to imminent danger pay By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall, Jr.

a much larger role in the future. In Rota, Spain there will be four destroyers by 2016. Singapore will have four littoral combat ships operating forward out of Singapore. The Navy will also continue to develop forward deployed naval forces in Japan as well as the Darwin option, where the Australian government will host marines to be forward deployed. Greenert said, “These non-rotational places are really the key to getting the most out of forward deployed forces.”

explained Redman on the genesis for the book. “The writer I worked with, John Bruning, was really good at interviewing and pulling information out … really digging in deep and helping me remember things that I might have forgotten.” Redman, a decorated Navy veteran and former Navy SEAL, dedicated nearly 21 years of his life to active duty service. In September of 2007 while in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, he was severely wounded when his assault team came under heavy machine gun and small arms ﬁre while attempting to capture an al-Qaeda high value individual.

» see REDMAN | B7

meetings for residents throughout the year. Currently, the 4,300 military families renting in the 32 privatized Hampton Roads neighborhoods, managed by Lincoln Military Housing, surrender a portion of the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) for utilities as part of their lease agreements. BAH includes a utilities allowance for electricity, gas or other heating fuels, and water/sewer. The BAH includes the cost of utilities based on averages from residents living in the private sector who are directly responsible for paying for their utilities.

» see RECP | B7

HeroesatHome The Flagship | ﬂagshipnews.com | 01.09.14 | B2

IVETH AND TAKETH AWAY

A story of loss, but also renewed spirit

Married to the Military

Catch Bianca next week!

Courtesy photo

By Sara Jane Arnett Military spouse contributor

Our family was recently given huge and surprising news that we were expecting our fourth child! At ﬁrst, I carried an array of emotions ruled by anxiousness, but more importantly we were all energized with the blessing of a new baby and collaborated with family in celebration across the miles. As parents of three beautiful and healthy boys, most that shared in our news wanted us to experience having a little girl, but felt our family would yet again, happily welcome another son. Medically labeled as “high risk” because of my age, my husband and I knew there could be risks, but as a strong military mama who has successfully weathered three deployments – I knew I had this one covered. After a trip to the E.R. at our local hospital last week, the on-call doctor delivered news that our baby did not have a heartbeat. We had miscarried. The anguish of miscarriage is too hard to capture in words unless you or someone you know has experienced it. The loss of any life is tragic, but the pain of losing our unborn baby

seems almost unbearable. Yet throughout this sadness, the overwhelming amount of compassion, empathy, love and support from family and friends near and far have reaffirmed we are blessed beyond comprehension. Never could I have imagined how prevalent miscarriages statistically run in the first trimester. How often do miscarriages happen and why? So many questions for such a significant life-changing event have been asked and addressed. According to a recent issue of Fitness magazine, ‘one of the most common causes of first-trimester miscarriages is linked to chromosomal abnormalities in the baby … miscarriages also happen within 15 - 25 percent of known pregnancies up to twenty weeks.’ Support tips and advice can be found online, but are sparse. However, the most helpful and uplifting information I read was from the women (and moms) themselves who have experienced the highs and lows of pregnancy to include the remorse of miscarriage. Miscarriage is very personal so there are no right or wrong ways to cope – do what feels best for your family. If you know someone who has experi-

enced miscarriage recently, one of the sincerest acts you can give is the compassion to listen. Encourage the family through simple statements such as “thinking of you” or “you all are in our prayers.” I guarantee any amount or level of support will be truly appreciated and never forgotten for the family grieving. As we wrap-up the holiday season, our souls are reminded of the renewing of spirits this time of year gives. My husband and I will always remember the date our baby was taken, but we will begin this year anew by embracing all of the blessings we have been given as well with three happy boys at the top of our list. I encourage all to reﬂect and focus on the blessings we have received in our lifetime and may the peace of Christmas joy be ever present throughout 2014. Sara Jane Arnett is an active Army spouse, mother of three rambunctious boys and military children’s author of “My Daddy’s a Soldier.” In 2011, she was selected as the “Heroes At Home” Military Spouse of the Year and also received the prestigious Military Police Corps “Order of the Vivandiere” award.

How to avoid military charity scammers By Jacey Eckhart Military spouse contributor

A 67-year-old Ohio man was sentenced to 28 years in prison for masterminding a $100 million Navy veterans charity fraud. The judge said that not only had the scam hurt the veterans who were intended to be the beneficiaries of this charity, but it hurt other charities because it makes donors “skeptical of giving.” Bing! That’s me. Currently “skeptical of giving.” But that is not a place I want to be. Because of my job, I hear about many military families in crisis. My mailbox, voicemail and email are chock full of requests to support military charities. And there are a ton of them. There are more than 47,000 nonprofit organizations registered with the IRS that list “military” in their mission statement. But how am I supposed to figure out which charities will actually channel my hard-earned money to military families and veterans in need, and which ones will use my pay to fund their beach house in the Hamptons? When I sat down to talk with pro-

fessionals who work in the military non-profit field at our annual Spouse Summit, they told me that one way to think of giving would be to divide military charities into three categories: Established – non-profits with a proven record of doing good work. Give to these organizations with confidence. Developing – non-profits who mean well but haven’t firmly established goals and priorities yet. Give to these with an eye toward encouraging good work. Not every good charity is a huge charity. Evil – organizations that have set themselves up to rook well-meaning people out of money they intend to be used to help military families. While I know all three of these types of organizations exist, I don’t have time to do a lot of research. Fortunately, that work is already done. According to the Federal Trade Commission the easiest way to check a charity is to check its name and reputation at Charity Navigator and GuideStar or the Wise Giving Alliance (operated by the Better Business Association.) The FTC says that a good rule of thumb is that good charities spend

less than 35 percent of donations on fundraising and administrative costs. Charity Navigator specifically lists military charities devoted to supporting our troops rated by financial health, accountability and transparency. Their ratings show givers how efficiently a charity will use the support we give today, how well it has sustained its programs and services over time, and their level of commitment to being accountable and transparent. Good ones to give to: Charity Navigator gives their highest four-star rating to The Community Foundation for the National Capital Region and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors in order to support those who lost family members at the Navy Yard this year. Other four star rated military charities include the National Military Family Association, Hope for the Warriors, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, Fisher House Foundation, Air Warrior Courage Foundation, Navy SEAL Foundation, Homes for Our Troops, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, Armed Services YMCA, Our Military Kids,

Visit The Flagship’s online calendar

Injured Marine Semper Fi Fund, Mercy Medical Airlift, Support the Enlisted Project, USO of Missouri, Inc. Adaptive Spouse Foundation, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Challenged Athletes Foundation, Disabled Veterans’ LIFE Memorial Foundation and Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Avoid this organizations: The military nonproﬁts that received zero stars from Charity Navigator include Blinded Veterans Association, National Veterans Services Fund, Inc., Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, National Veterans Foundation, New England Paralyzed Veterans of America, National Vietnam Veterans Foundation and Shiloh International Ministries.

Know your resources with your local FFSC Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) programs and services are designed to help you make the most of your military experience... and they're all available to you at no cost. Functions and/or services FFSC provides: ■ Clinical Counseling(Individual, Couples, and Child Counseling ) ■ Personal Financial Management ■ Information & Referral ■ Family Employment Assistance ■ Transition Assistance ■ Family Advocacy Program ■ Deployment and Mobilization Support ■ Ombudsman Support ■ Relocation Assistance ■ Parenting Programs ■ Stress and Anger Management ■ Command Support ■ Crisis Support ■ Suicide Prevention ■ Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Support

In our military community, we pride ourselves in taking care of our own. Please think of our families in need and give what you can. Jacey Eckhart is the Director of Spouse and Family Programs for Military.com. Eckhart is an Air Force brat, a Navy wife and an Army mom. Read more of her columns at spousebuzz.com.

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FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | B3

PAY

Imminent danger pay updated to match actual conditions

Imminent danger pay provides troops in imminent danger areas about $7.50 per day up to the maximum monthly rate of $225.

Continued from B1

Approximately 50,000 less will be receiving imminent danger pay.

MCSN Karl Anderson

Obama-signed bill provides military pay, bonuses American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON

President Barack Obama signed House Resolution 3304, which provides pay and bonuses for U.S. service members, enhances counterterrorism efforts overseas, builds security capacities of key U.S. partner-nations, expands efforts to prevent sexual assault and strengthens protections for victims, Dec. 26, 2013. Here is the text of the president’s statement on the signing of the bill: Today I have signed into law H.R. 3304, the "National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014." I have signed this annual defense authorization legislation because it will provide pay and bonuses for our service members, enhance counterterrorism initiatives abroad, build the security capacity of key partners, and expand efforts to prevent sexual assault and strengthen protections for victims. Since taking ofﬁce, I have repeatedly called upon the Congress to work with my Administration to close the detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The continued operation of the facility weakens our national security by draining re-

sources, damaging our relationships with key allies and partners, and emboldening violent extremists. For the past several years, the Congress has enacted unwarranted and burdensome restrictions that have impeded my ability to transfer detainees from Guantanamo. Earlier this year I again called upon the Congress to lift these restrictions and, in this bill, the Congress has taken a positive step in that direction. Section 1035 of this Act gives the Administration additional ﬂexibility to transfer detainees abroad by easing rigid restrictions that have hindered negotiations with foreign countries and interfered with executive branch determinations about how and where to transfer detainees. Section 1035 does not, however, eliminate all of the unwarranted limitations on foreign transfers and, in certain circumstances, would violate constitutional separation of powers principles. The executive branch must have the ﬂexibility, among other things, to act swiftly in conducting negotiations with foreign countries regarding the circumstances of detainee transfers. Of course, even in the absence of any statutory restrictions, my Administration would

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES

transfer a detainee only if the threat the detainee may pose can be sufﬁciently mitigated and only when consistent with our humane treatment policy. Section 1035 nevertheless represents an improvement over current law and is a welcome step toward closing the facility. In contrast, sections 1033 and 1034 continue unwise funding restrictions that curtail options available to the executive branch. Section 1033 renews the bar against using appropriated funds to construct or modify any facility in the United States, its territories, or possessions to house any Guantanamo detainee in the custody or under the control of the Department of Defense unless authorized by the Congress. Section 1034 renews the bar against using appropriated funds to transfer Guantanamo detainees into the United States for any purpose. I oppose these provisions, as I have in years past, and will continue to work with the Congress to remove these restrictions. The executive branch must have the authority to determine when and where to prosecute Guantanamo detainees, based on the facts and circumstances of each case and our national security interests. For de-

ALWAYS APPRO O ED E

cades, Republican and Democratic administrations have successfully prosecuted hundreds of terrorists in Federal court. Those prosecutions are a legitimate, effective, and powerful tool in our efforts to protect the Nation. Removing that tool from the executive branch does not serve our national security interests. Moreover, section 1034 would, under certain circumstances, violate constitutional separation of powers principles. The detention facility at Guantanamo continues to impose significant costs on the American people. I am encouraged that this Act provides the Executive greater flexibility to transfer Guantanamo detainees abroad, and look forward to working with the Congress to take the additional steps needed to close the facility. In the event that the restrictions on the transfer of Guantanamo detainees in sections 1034 and 1035 operate in a manner that violates constitutional separation of powers principles, my Administration will implement them in a manner that avoids the constitutional conflict. BARACK OBAMA THE WHITE HOUSE December 26, 2013

FOR CREDIT

Periodic recertification of IDP, according to the news release, ensures that imminent danger designations match the actual conditions of designated countries so that the department can provide fair entitlements and benefits. The last recertification was completed in 2007. The DOD news release noted the following areas would no longer be designated as imminent danger areas for IDP purposes: ■ The nine land areas of East Timor, Haiti, Liberia, Oman, Rwanda, Tajikistan, United Arab Emirates, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. ■ The six land areas and airspace above Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia and Montenegro. ■ The four water areas of the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, and the Red Sea. ■ The water area and air space above the Persian Gulf. “Of specific note,” Warren said, “imminent danger pay will remain in effect for the following: Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Jordan, Pakistan, Syria, Yemen and Egypt.” Although 2013 statistics are not currently available, Warren noted the year prior, 194,189 personnel received imminent danger pay. “Approximately 50,000 less will be receiving imminent danger pay,” he said. “In [2012], we spent approximately $500 million on imminent danger pay. This will result in a reduction of approximately $100 million.” The benefit provides troops in imminent danger areas about $7.50 per day up to the maximum monthly rate of $225, Warren said.

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B4 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

SOCOM LEADS DEVELOPMENT OF ‘IRON MAN’ SUIT By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON

U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is using unprecedented outreach and collaboration to develop what its commander hopes will be revolutionary capabilities: a suit that’s been likened to the one worn by the “Iron Man” movies superhero that offers operators better protection, enhanced performance and improved situational awareness. The Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit, or TALOS, is the vision of Navy Adm. William H. McRaven, SOCOM’s commander. He challenged industry and defense representatives at a SOCOM conference in May to come up with the concepts and technologies to make the suit a reality. Exactly what capabilities the TALOs will deliver is not yet clear, explained Michael Fieldson, Socom’s TALOS project manager. The goal is to provide operators lighter, more efficient full-body ballistics protection and super-human strength. Antennas and computers embedded into the suit will increase the wearer’s situational awareness by providing user-friendly and realtime battlefield information. Integrated heaters and coolers will regulate the temperature inside the suit. Embedded sensors will monitor the operator’s core body temperature, skin temperature, heart rate, body position and hydration levels. In the event that the operator is wounded, the suit could feasibly start administering the first life-saving oxygen or hemorrhage controls. Fieldson admitted that the analogy to the suit that the Tony Stark character wore in the “Iron Man” movies may be a bit of a stretch. The TALOS, for example, isn’t expected to fly. But beyond that, there’s little that Fieldson – or anyone else at SOCOM – is ready to rule out. In a departure from past practices of introducing new products piece-

meal, adding bulk and weight to operators’ kit, the TALOS will be a fully integrated “system of systems,” Fieldson said. To offset the weight of computers, sensors and armor that make up the suit, operators will have an exoskeleton – a mechanism that carries the brunt of the load. “The intent is to have this fully integrated system so you can provide the most capability at the lowest impact to the soldier,” Fieldson said. “We think there is some efficiency to be gained if all the equipment is fully integrated as opposed to different components that are simply assembled on the human.” Keeping the systems and the exoskeleton powered will require more than today’s batteries can deliver. So along with the TALOS technologies, SOCOM is calling on the scientific and technical community to come up with reliable and portable power sources. “We are really looking at stretching the bounds of science and technology,” Fieldson said. That’s led SOCOM to reach out to partners within DOD as well as industry and academia for help in pushing today’s technological limits. The command is working with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, as well as U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center and the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command, among other DOD organizations, to tap into projects already underway. DARPA, for example, is making headway on its Warrior Web project, designed to boost troops’ stamina and carrying capacity without sacrificing speed or agility. The concept includes a lightweight undersuit that would augment the efforts of the wearer’s own muscles. “Many of the individual technologies currently under development show real promise to reduce injury and fatigue and improve endurance,” said Army Lt. Col. Joseph

U.S. Army courtesy photo U.S. Special Operations Command develops the Tactical Assault Light Operation Suit, the TALOS, a suit similar to that of the “Iron Man” suit.

Hitt, DARPA’s Warrior Web program manager. “Now we’re aiming to combine them – and hopefully some new ones, too – into a single system that nearly every Soldier could wear and would provide decisive benefits under real-world conditions.” The Natick lab is busy identifying high-technology armor and mobility technologies with plans to integrate them into a first-generation TALOS system ready for demonstration by the end of June, reported Greg Kanagaki, project engineer for Natick’s Unmanned Equipment and Human Augmentation Systems Team. Natick personnel also are serving as subject-matter experts for the TALOS project, particularly in the areas of mobility, human performance and thermal management, Kanagaki said. Meanwhile, officials at the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command say their programs have a direct application to TALOS as well. “[The] requirement is a comprehensive family of systems in a combat armor suit where we bring together an exoskeleton with innovative armor, displays for power monitoring, health monitoring, and integrating a weapon into that – a whole bunch of stuff that RDECOM is playing heavily in,” said Army Lt. Col. Karl Borjes, the command’s science adviser. “RDECOM cuts across every aspect making up this combat armor suit,” he said. “It’s advanced armor. It’s communications, antennas. It’s cognitive performance. It’s sensors, miniature-type circuits. That’s all

going to fit in here, too.” SOCOM has called on the private sector, too, inviting not just its traditional industry partners, but also those who have never before worked with the command, to participate in the TALOS program. “There is no one industry that can build it,” SOCOM’s Senior Enlisted Advisor Army Command Sgt. Maj. Chris Faris said during a panel discussion at the command’s MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., headquarters, as reported by the Defense Media Network. The outreach has generated a lot of interest. SOCOM’s TALOS planning session this past summer attracted representatives of 80 colleges, 10 universities and four national laboratories. At a demonstration in July, 80 companies demonstrated technologies ranging from advanced body armor, some using liquids that turn solid on impact, to power supplies to exoskeleton mechanisms. SOCOM’s goal, Fieldson said, is to have a TALOS prototype within the next year and to have the suit ready for full field testing within five years. That timetable is revolutionary for the military research, development and acquisition world, even for rapid-equipping programs. As the only combatant command with acquisition authority, SOCOM is able to accelerate the TALOS project, Fieldson explained. The command’s acquisition executive and research and development staff share a building at MacDill Air Force Base, which he said promotes close collaboration and speedy decision-making.

“We have access that is nontraditional and that absolutely helps us,” Fieldson said. “We can bounce ideas back and forth against the leadership and ensure that what we are doing makes sense … I think that is critical to trying to develop this system within the timeline we are working toward.” Also, in a departure from traditional development projects, SOCOM’s Acquisition Center staff established an innovation cell to lead the effort, advised by operators and focused on transforming business processes to solve the extreme integration challenges associated with TALOS. “Because of the technical challenges and the compressed timeline, we are going to take more ownership on the government side than we typically take,” Fieldson said. “We are going to go in and make some decisions that we sometimes rely on industry partners to make for us,” he said. “That allows us to reach out to a broader audience. That way, if there is a great idea in some nontraditional organization, we can integrate it” without relying on a commercial company to do so. “We are really changing the process,” Fieldson said. “And the reason we are doing that is to try to streamline the overall effort and drive down both the cost and the schedule. That way, we get the best possible equipment to our force as quickly as possible.” Although the TALOS is initially intended for special operators involved in high-risk missions, it has implications for the conventional force as well, Fieldson said. “We have a long history at SOCOM of developing things first and then the technology moving out to the broader force,” he said. “We fully expect that to happen with this one as well. I think there will be a lot of spinoff technologies that the broader force will be able to use.” Meanwhile, McRaven remains the suit’s No. 1 proponent. “I’m very committed to this,” he told industry representatives at a July planning forum. “I’d like that last operator that we lost to be the last operator we lose in this fight or the fight of the future. And I think we can get there.”

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CSADD 2014 monthly topics announced By MC1 Elliott Fabrizio Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON

The Navy announced the 2014 monthly topics for chapters of the Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions (CSADD) to emphasize in their awareness and peer mentorship efforts, Dec. 31, in NAVADMIN 335/13. These key focal training topics are designed to provoke thought, inspire young leaders to discuss these issues, and create awareness through a variety of social networks and activities at the most junior level. “Our CSADD chapters bring the awareness piece,” said Fleet Master Chief for Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education (MPT&E) April Beldo. “They’re in their

commands having conversations about these topics and aren’t afraid to have these conversations with, not just their peers, but everyone in the command.” CSAAD is a peer mentoring program aimed at promoting good decision-making and leadership development at junior levels of the Navy. Local chapters encourage positive behavior by bringing together Sailors through both social networking and in-person networking. “I’ve seen some amazing things from CSADD in 2013,” said Beldo. “I think this year we will see our chapters moving forward with getting MWR and our liberty centers more involved as part of the CSADD team.” There are currently more than 300 CSADD chapters registered.

■ monthly focus areas This year’s key focus areas for each month are the following: January - Fleet and Family Support Centers and Planning a Family February - Responsible Use of Alcohol March - Navy Nutrition April - Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness May - Physical Fitness June - Motorcycle Safety July - Off-Duty Recreation August - CSADD Volunteer Outreach September - Suicide Awareness ACT (Ask, Care, Treat) October - Domestic Violence Prevent and Awareness and Drug Abuse Prevention and Awareness November - Sailor Resiliency, Physical Health and Deployment Readiness December - Safe Driving Planning

COMNAVSURFLANT discusses the 21st century Sailor By Kimberly M. Lansdale Center for Surface Combat Systems

DAHLGREN, VA.

The commander of the Naval Surface Force Atlantic (COMSURFLANT) visited Navy Air and Missile Command (NAMDC), Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) and Aegis Training and Readiness Center (ATRC), onboard Naval Support Facility Dahlgren, Dec. 16. Rear Adm. Pete Gumataotao visited NAMDC, CSCS and ATRC for overviews of command projects, issues, and initiatives, and to get a better sense of how the schoolhouse teaches Sailors to operate and maintain surface combat systems and provide top-notch training. CSCS Commanding Ofﬁcer Capt. Don Schmieley and ATRC Commanding Ofﬁcer Capt. Ian Hall hosted Gumataotao during the training discussions. “We discussed surface ship combat systems training, what we are doing to meet the Fleet’s training needs, and how we can help improve readiness,” Schmieley said. Hall discussed the training that his schoolhouse provides

Daryl Roy Rear Adm. Pete Gumataotao, commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, addresses Aegis Training Readiness Center’s (ATRC) students and staff about the 21st century Sailor during his visit to Naval Support Facility Dahlgren.

and how it ﬁts within the larger CSCS domain. “Not only do we provide apprentice, journeyman and master level training for all Aegis Fire Controlmen, we write the curriculum for CSCS’s Integrated Air-Missile Defense Advanced Warfare Training,” Hall said. “We look forward to the admiral’s return for an in-depth tour of ATRC’s labs and classrooms, and a chance to engage with more students.” The visit concluded with Gumataotao addressing ATRC students and staff about the 21st Century Sailor. “Our Navy is very complex today,” Gumataotao ex-

plained. “Each Sailor plays a technical and tactical role in the Fleet. The 21st (Century) Sailor must apply him or herself, strive to do his or her best, be a true patriot at heart, and understand the importance of building a team. I am honored to be part of this team. I am proud to be the 21st Century Sailor’s advocate on the waterfront.” The CSCS oversees the development of surface warfare training and its headquarters’ staff manages 14 learning sites, including ATRC. CSCS provides almost 70,000 hours of curriculum and close to 700 courses a year to more than 40,000 Sailors.

TUITION ASSISTANCE MADE EASY

Top 5 things you need to know about ﬁling for TA

By Terrina Weatherspoon Defense Media Activity

1. Be on active duty. Enlisted Reservists ordered to active duty for 120 days or more are eligible. Reserve officers ordered to active duty for two years or more who agree to remain on active duty two years beyond the expected completion date of any TA funded course(s) are also eligible. 2. Ask yourself these questions: a. Have I reviewed NAVADMIN 105/10 and 245/10, as well as NETC Instruction 1560.3? b. Have I completed one year onboard my first permanent duty station? c. Will my course end before my EAOS/ retirement date? d. Have I passed my most recent PFA? e. Am I recommended for advancement? f. Is my command satisfied with my warfare qualification progress? If the answer to these questions is YES, you are ready to apply for TA. 3. Get an Education/Degree Plan. Contact your servicing Navy College Office (NCO) or Virtual Education Center (VEC) and receive counseling either in person (NCOs only), virtually, or by phone or email. They’ll help you develop a degree plan and determine which courses are eligible for TA funding. You must also have completed the WebTA training at www.navycollege.navy.mil/WebTA_ Training/courseLaunch.html within the last two years.

4. Complete a TA application in WebTA. Here is where you will list the courses you want to take and the tuition and fees associated with the courses. Sailors starting a class without an approved TA voucher risk being financially liable for their tuition. 5. Monitor your WebTA account to ensure your TA request is command approved and authorized by the VEC prior to the class start date. TA pays up front the tuition and fees for course enrollments – 100 percent of tuition costs for courses applicable to the completion of a high school diploma or equivalency certificate. For other education levels, there is an FY credit limit of 16 Semester Hours, 24 Quarter Hours, or 240 clock hours per individual per fiscal year. Payments for tuition/fees will not exceed: a. $250.00 per Semester Hour b. $166.67 per Quarter Hour (**Subject to change with future budgets.) c. $16.67 per Clock Hour

helpful links CPPD homepage: www.netc.navy.mil/centers/cppd/ Navy College Program: www.navycollege.navy.mil/ WebTA access: www.myeducation.netc.navy.mil/eta/menu/welcome.do WebTA training: www.navycollege.navy.mil/WebTA_Training/courseLaunch.html TA: www.navycollege.navy.mil/ta_info.aspx TA messages: www.navycollege.navy.mil/ta_info.aspx#messages Navy College Ofﬁce locator: www.navycollege.navy.mil/ncp/findnco.aspx VEC: www.navycollege.navy.mil/dsp_vec.aspx

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NRTC launches ‘self-service’ unlocking feature for users By MCC Jayme Pastoric Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH

Unlocking your Non-Resident Training Course (NRTC) online account just got a little easier. NRTC accounts that were inactive for longer then 30 days were locked as a result of computer security measures ordered by the Defense Department and U.S. Navy’s cyber commands and took effect Aug. 21. The security measures immediately affected more than 187,500 accounts. Because of the overwhelming number of unlock requests, NRTC staff has implemented a self-service option by using a Command Access Card (CAC) veriﬁcation, Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) authentication and security question challenge process to help alleviate the back log of more than 203,646 requests at

the NRTC help desk. “Users who have been locked out due to greater than 30 days inactivity but less than 45 days will be allowed into their account upon CAC authentication,” said Tom Phillips, Center for Personal and Professional Development NRTC program manager. Users falling in the greater then 45 day inactivity window will receive challenge questions generated from the account holder’s proﬁle. Correctly answering the questions will allow users to update their account and re-enable access. “We have a close working relationship with the developers and programmers of the NRTC website,” said Phillips. “We are continuing to improve the process while maintaining adherence to mandated security changes.” Through December 2013, the NRTC helpdesk has unlocked more than 11,500 user accounts. Users who are unable to use the self-service unlock-

ing service are encouraged to contact the NRTC helpdesk at CPPD’s Voluntary Education (VOLED) Support Site in Pensacola, Fla., for assistance in regaining access. The VOLED team in Pensacola can be reached anytime via email at NRTC@navy.mil and Monday through Friday by commercial phone at (877) 264-8583, or DSN at 7536070. CPPD is responsible for providing a wide range of personal and professional development courses and materials, including General Military Training, Navy instructor training, alcohol and drug awareness program training, suicide and sexual assault prevention, bystander intervention, and personal responsibility classes. CPPD’s required leadership training is delivered multiple times throughout a Sailor’s career via command-delivered enlisted leadership training material and ofﬁcer leadership courses in a schoolhouse setting.

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B6 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

NMCB 3 strengthens spirit through competition By MC1 Chris Fahey Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3

OKINAWA, JAPAN

The combative Seabee spirit rears itself during times of crisis or need, and between those times, there’s only one way to keep their warrior instincts sharp and ready for the fight – healthy competition. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 split into squads, Jan. 3, to square off in a military skills competition, testing each team’s ability to conduct a convoy, patrol, layout a forward operating base, provide medical care while taking fire and correctly reassemble different weapons systems. Each squad was graded on their ability to not only perform each task as a team, but also their motivation level and attitude. “Overall, we wanted to challenge each person on their ability to operate the materials and equipment in our table of allowances – all the things we deploy with to do our job,” said Engineering Aide 1st Class Willie Blanding, NMCB 3’s training supervisor. “Those tools are great in a trained person’s hand, but the right attitude has to go along with it. With the right motivation and energy, troops become warriors.” During the week prior, the squads conducted round-robin training on each station of the competition, to help refresh some of the seasoned Seabees and provide the first taste of training to those who just checked aboard. According to Builder 2nd Class Bo Watkins, squad leader for the winning team, the secret to his team’s success was simple. “We just had fun!” said Watkins. “These skills can be really essential depending on where you are sent, so we just had a great time with it and are surprised to have won.”

BUCN Laine Pulfer Above: Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3 race against the clock to assemble weapons in the fastest amount of time with the least amount of errors during a battalion-wide military skills competition at Camp Shields. Left: Chief Construction Mechanic Clarence Boulais acts as a victim during a mass casualty drill.

MC1 Chris Fahey

US, FRENCH NAVIES WORK TOGETHER TO ENSURE SECURITY, STABILITY USS Harry S. Truman Public Affairs GULF OF OMAN

Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HST CSG) began combined operations with the French navy’s Task Force 473 in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR), Dec. 29. HST CSG, comprised of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), guided-missile cruisers USS Gettysburg (CG 64) and USS San Jacinto (CG 56) and guided-missile destroyers USS Bulkeley (DDG 84), USS Carney (DDG 64), USS Hopper (DDG 70) and USS Mason (DDG 87) is operating with the French navy’s Task Force 473 to enhance cooperation and interoperability in the region. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our ships, Sailors and Marines to work together and gain a better understanding of each other,” said Rear Adm. Kevin Sweeney, Commander, HST CSG. “Our operations with Task Force 473 will increase both of our maritime capabilities while helping promote long-term stability in the region.” The French ships include aircraft carrier FS Charles de Gaulle (R 91), destroyers FS Forbin (D 620) and FS Jean de Vienne (D 643) and replenishment oiler FS Meuse (A 607).

“This mission is a big challenge,” said Rear Adm. Eric Chaperon, Commander, Task Force 473. “France and the USA have been partners for a longtime, but with this new and rare opportunity to integrate two CSGs, our cooperation is becoming ever closer. All of our Sailors are really proud to have a role to play in building the operational interoperability of our two nations.” In addition to conducting combined maritime security operations, ships from the two navies have participated in a variety of training and operations together including visit, board, search and seizure training, live-ﬁre gunnery exercises, small boat operations, deck-landing qualiﬁcations, underway replenishments, combat search and rescue training and air defense exercises. U.S. and French personnel have also traveled to visit counterparts on the other ships, sharing techniques and experiences. “Not only is this a great opportunity to conduct operations with a close and trusted ally, this is a great time to learn from each other,” said Sweeney. “There are a lot of similarities in the way we operate across the different platforms, but there are also some differences. Understanding those differences will make

per delicious.

both of us better, stronger, and enable us to operate with each other, and with other navies, more effectively. Our presence goes a long way in reassuring our regional partners and allies.” The commanding officers of both aircraft carriers also recognize the opportunity the two navies have to learn from each other. “This mission is a decisive opportunity to share knowledge and build upon our friendship in order to be able to successfully handle future contingencies together,” said Capt. Pierre Vandier, commanding officer, FS Charles de Gaulle. It is also an opportunity to check our interoperability that allows a lot of common procedures and aircraft exchanges.” Capt. Bob Roth, commanding officer, Harry S. Truman, fully appreciates the opportunity to work closely with a longtime partner. “It’s a rare and very fulfilling experience to sail alongside and operate closely with another aircraft carrier, especially a CVN from a navy with whom we have so many lasting personnel exchange programs,” he said. “I think we’re going to further develop our already deep trust and mutual operational understanding.”

NAVSEA completes waterjet seal and evaluation on USS Fort Worth Naval Sea Systems Command Ofﬁce of Corporate Communications WASHINGTON

Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Southwest Regional Maintenance Center (SWRMC) divers recently completed the first full underwater waterjet seal and evaluation on a littoral combat ship (LCS), USS Fort Worth (LCS 3), the Navy announced, Jan. 2. LCS class ships are unique to the U.S. Navy because they use waterjets instead of propellers for propulsion. Each waterjet draws seawater in through a duct, increases the water's pressure and then ejects it, causing the ship to move. To protect these waterjets from internal corrosion, the LCS class uses what's known as a cathodic protection system, a system by which the waterjets are equipped with sacrificial metal structures that are specifically designed to corrode. Because these structures – known as anodes – corrode so easily, it keeps the rest of the waterjet structure safe from rusting or pitting. On Freedom-variant ships, the anodes installed on the waterjets need to be inspected and replaced every four months. NAVSEA's Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV) was tasked to develop a procedure to replace these anodes at sea, instead of having to conduct the replacement in a dry dock. Working with the ship's operators and the inservice LCS program office, SUPSALV engineers developed a plate to seal the waterjet inlet, as well as external patches to isolate the waterjet, creating a dry environment. This allowed maintenance teams to inspect and replace the zinc anodes while the ship was waterborne. "It is important to have this underwater process to provide a cost effective, timely, and manageable procedure to the LCS fleet," said Joe Theodorou, SUPSALV program manager. "Having this capability saves the Navy $100 million in dry dock costs in the San Diego area." With the procedure complete for Freedom-variant littoral combat ships, SUPSALV will begin testing a similar process for Independence-variant ships. Though both variants use waterjets for propulsion, there are significant differences in their design. Testing on Independence-variant ships is expected to complete by March 2014.

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | B7

REDMAN

<< a room of optimism, not sorrow A sign that Jason Redman hung on his recovery room door now hangs in the Wounded Ward at Walter Reed National Military Center. It reads: “Attention to all who enter here. If you are coming into this room with sorrow or to feel sorry for my wounds, go elsewhere. The wounds I received, I got in a job I love, doing it for people I love, supporting the freedom of a country I deeply love. I am incredibly tough and will make a full recovery. What is full? That is the absolute utmost physically my body has the ability to recover. Then I will push that about 20% further through sheer mental tenacity. This room you are about to enter is a room of fun, optimism, and intense rapid regrowth. If you are not prepared for that, go elsewhere. From: The Management.

Book details author’s journey from tragedy to recovery Continued from B1 The injuries to his face and arm have taken nearly 40 surgeries to repair the damage, leaving scars as a constant reminder, but his spirit and will to overcome was left untarnished. His greatest asset was the overwhelming support he received from his loving wife, Erica, and three children, Phoenix, Angelica and Mackenzie. “I really worry about these warriors that are out there that don’t have a family to come home to and help take care of them – these Wounded Warriors,” he said. “[My family] was phenomenal, my wife was amazing and my kids truly showed me what unconditional love is. Despite being all banged up and even being disfigured, to your kids, you’re still dad.” As there are many books on the War on Terror that strive to retell the stories and missions of Navy SEALs, Redman takes a very different approach. His use of vivid verbal imagery effectively brings readers to the battlefields not only in the literal sense, but also metaphorically as he battled the demons within himself on his path to becoming a leader, a supportive husband and father, a trusted teammate and friend, and a true American hero … but often walking a fine line between confidence and arrogance on that path. “I think you can have confidence in your capabilities, but it should always be tempered with humility,” he explained. “I think for just about anyone out there, you’re never as great as you think you are … no matter how great your skill set is. There’s nothing more effective on the planet than a well-tuned team of individuals. [It’s important] to not belittle people … stay humble … look at ways to bring people up. You should always look at ways to

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mentor others, especially if you have the capability.” Redman doesn’t hold back any punches as he dissected his life within the pages, chronicling his destructive behavior with alcohol, his misguided youth, his actions that nearly cost him his career and a loss of confidence from his fellow brothers-in-arms, his struggles with religion and the role God played in his life, the love and challenges of his family bond, and the devastating blow of a tragic combat injury that nearly left him dead and enemy soil stained red from his blood. “Obviously, no one wants to admit the mistakes we’ve made, especially when it reflects poorly on you, but the flipside of that coin … the way I looked at it, you learn the most out of your greatest falls,” he said. “I don’t think there are a lot of books that take that approach. You read about a lot of successful people and you would think they came out of the womb successful – they never write about the mistakes and failures they had along the way. I wanted a book that was relatable to people ... I wanted people to understand that I had overcome a

| CNO Greenert

discussed deployments, compensation, budget Continued from B1

online The conversation pivoted To watch the latest to the effects of sequestration episode of “Conversation with a Shipmate,” visit on deployment lengths. “After these next three http://goo.gl/DLS6Pq. carrier deployments that will take us through 2014 to 2015 we’ll probably migrate Navy needs some improveto about eight months for ment is in the quality of our carriers for OPTEMPO work,” Greenert said. length,” said Greenert. AmThe Navy has got to do phibious ready groups will better in: having right kind be about seven and a half of leadership in place, getmonths, and submarines ting rid of gaps at sea, having about six-month deployment spare parts and training, lengths, he added. having a more predictable “We’ll be stabilized in a schedule, he said. He went few years,” Greenert said. on to explain that those needs “But it will take those few will have to be balanced with years to get through this of what the Navy spends on impact of sequestration.” compensation. MCPON spoke on how in“We have to balance how creasing deployment lengths we pay our people with what have affected Sailors and we need to operate,” Greenert their families. said. “We’re in charge of the “Our Sailors and their security of our country, we families never cease to amaze have to organize, train and us,” said Stevens, citing Sail- equip appropriately in balors’ perseverance through in- ance in this declining fiscal creasing deployment lengths. environment.” “We cannot fool ourselves, Both MCPON and CNO this has taken a toll on and it had messages of gratitude to will continue to take a toll, all Sailors operating forward. this is why we need to take “Thank you to our sailors a look on how long and how and their families for the trehard our Sailors are being de- mendous sacrifice they make ployed,” said Stevens. in the service of our Navy Later in the interview and our nation,” said Stevens. Greenert discussed compen- “We think about them, we sation and how the Navy will care about them and every deal with budget issues in the one of them matters.” coming years. “I’d like to say thank you He measures quality of to all those who are servservice in two parts, quality ing,” Greenert said. “These of life and quality of work. are folks who are getting it Greenert explained. Quality of done on the front. This carlife being pay and benefits and rier strike group is on a nine quality of work being whether month deployment, and you Sailors have adequate training wouldn’t know it - these are and parts they need. some of the most motivated “Sailors say that where the people I’ve come across.”

lot of adversity along the way … and some of it was self-induced.” “I really wanted it to be a book that would motivate and inspire people,” he continued. “It’s much more of a leadership and overcoming adversity book than it is a military book … because there are so many leadership lessons in it.” As a reader, you can’t help but feel compassion for him and his personal struggles. Despite his arrogance at times, Redman had an overwhelming desire to be the best he could be. In 2005 and 2006, he faced a critical impasse which ultimately changed him forever. His pride had gotten the best of him and personality conﬂicts within his command, mixed with his decisions, put him and his men in harm’s way. He was even faced with a possible end to his career and losing his coveted Trident, an achievement that was a driving force for him even at an early age. For Redman, going to U.S. Army Ranger School was a light bulb moment for him, and ultimately the glue that mended his life and put him back on course. Redman’s military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal

with Valor, Purple Heart, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Achievement Medal (ﬁve awards) and Combat Action Ribbon (two awards), and he conducted more than 40 capture/kill missions with his men in Iraq, locating more than 120 al-Qaeda insurgents. “In life, sometimes we need to be broken down to that most basic level so that we push aside all that clutter in our mind and really boil things down to the most basic – I think that’s what Ranger School did for me,” he explained. “Especially when I got in trouble and was put in the Ranger School holding company … having 13 years in the military I [thought] pretty highly of myself and suddenly I found myself walking around base like I was a brand new recruit picking up trash and it really humbled me and gave me a lot of time to think. It was during that time that I really started to accept the fact that a lot of the reasons I was in that position was from the decisions I had made.” As Redman tells his story during that time of his life and also after the injuries, his own self-discovery and humility becomes a teaching tool for not only himself, but for all who read it. His strong will was demonstrated even further while he recovered at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md., now called Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. There he hung a bright orange sign on his recovery room door (see photo), which became both a statement and a symbol for Wounded Warriors everywhere, and gained national recognition from President George W. Bush. The sign continues to hang in the Wounded Ward of the hospital to this day. “I gave [the sign] back to the

hospital because that’s where it belonged,” he said. “Everyone wants to make a big deal out of the sign and that I wrote it, but in my mind I merely captured the mindset of most Wounded Warriors – not all because some guys struggle more than others – but most guys out there have that mindset of ‘Don’t feel sorry for me … I’m going to overcome the injuries that I’ve sustained.’ I love to see [the sign] and I still get notes from Wounded Warriors that say it has motivated and inspired them. That’s what it was intended to do.” In his recovery, Redman has refocused his energy as the founder and executive director for Wounded Wear, a Virginia Beach-based non-profit organization that strives to raise awareness of the sacrifice of Wounded Warriors, their families and the families of fallen service members. He also speaks across the country spreading his message of life, inspiration, and of the sacrifices that enable the freedoms of our country. “My three focuses now are my family, taking care of other veterans – I think that’s a real need and it’s troubling to me that this current administration is continuing to look for things to cut, like benefits for our veterans after we are finishing up one of the longest wars in history and at a time, I think, that our veterans really need support. So that is one of my primary focuses and one of my goals – and also our country,” he said. “I believe strongly in this country – I fought for it!” To learn more about Wounded Wear and Jason Redman, visit woundedwear.org. “The Trident: The Forging and Reforging of a Navy SEAL Leader” is available at all major book retailers. (ISBN: 978-0062208316; Publisher: William Morrow).

Mabus tightens Navy’s counter-fraud measures By Jim Garamone American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON

While the Navy already has one of the strongest counter-fraud efforts in the government, Navy Secretary Ray Mabus announced, Dec. 20, new measures to assure contracting integrity and to prevent fraud. Mabus, who briefed the Pentagon press corps this morning, spoke amid a criminal investigation focused on Glenn Defense Marine Asia. The U.S. Department of Justice is prosecuting the case, which alleges the company overcharged the U.S. Navy for husbanding services throughout Asia. Husbanding is the services ships receive in port and covers everything from removing sewage to providing transportation to resupply. Some Naval ofﬁcers have been arrested for their involvement in the scheme and Mabus expects more announcements as a result of the case. Mabus is proud of the work Navy personnel did in uncovering the plot. “The Naval Criminal Investigative Service, NCIS, along with the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and the Defense Contract Audit Agency did and is doing incredibly impressive work to ferret out the alleged fraud and corruption carried out by GDMA and, yes, allegations against naval person-

RCEP

nel, as well,” Mabus said. The investigation has been under way since May 2010. “Information gathered during this investigation was eventually turned over to government prosecutors and led to the recent charges filed in federal court,” Mabus said. This included charges filed against an NCIS agent. Throughout the investigation, Mabus repeatedly instructed NCIS agents to take the investigation wherever it led. “This is a very serious case, and it is a serious issue,” he said. The secretary has spoken with all three- and four-star admirals about the investigation and the changes he is making. “The conduct and the behavior alleged to have occurred in connection with this case is absolutely incompatible with the standards we require from our Navy officers and civilians,” Mabus said. “If, as a result of this investigation, criminal prosecutors decide not to pursue criminal charges, but instead refer cases to the Navy for disposition, I’m announcing that those cases will be reviewed and resolved through a consolidated disposition authority.” This authority will be a four-star admiral who will ensure that if allegations are substantiated, individuals will be held appropriately accountable, Mabus said. Since 2009, Navy has suspended

252 contractors and debarred 400, the secretary said. Still, he said, the service must do more. Mabus is taking steps following receipt of a report reviewing acquisition strategies for husbanding and similar contracts worldwide. Experts are examining the husbanding contractor process from end-to-end and will recommend changes to correct deficiencies in those procedures and to provide maximum effective oversight of the process. When that task is finished, the Navy will issue a revised acquisition strategy that will be used on all husbanding contracts globally. The Navy will “further standardize requirements, further standardize contract vehicles, further standardize administration and increase oversight of husbanding contracts and contractors,” Mabus said. The Navy will increase the use of firm fixed-price line items and minimize the use and improve the oversight of unpriced line items. The service also “will remove pay functions to husbanding service providers from ships and provide better guidance on requirements and more contracting support ship COs going overseas,” he said. The Navy will also incorporate standardized requisition processes fleetwide, and the service auditor general will conduct a special audit of husbanding and port services contracts. That report is due in June 2014.

| First RECP statements will be sent mid-February

Continued from B1 The Navy’s Mid-Atlantic Region is one of the last to participate in the program. RECP was started in Hawaii in 2011. The program rolled out in other states this year and will continue with the Northeastern states joining throughout 2014. Early results from the program’s mock billing phase in Hampton Roads, showed a 20 percent reduction in the kilowatt hours used from July through October over the same period in 2012. The Hampton Roads program was

originally scheduled to begin live billing in October. The Navy moved the live billing date to January to ensure all processes were in place and to allow residents additional time to prepare and understand their bill, their usage and the resources available to help manage usage. Since the program is new, the Navy is encouraging residents with general or speciﬁc questions or who want to schedule a home energy audit to contact the Lincoln Military community manager or the installation's Navy Housing Service Center:

■ Hampton Roads Navy Housing Service Centers ■ Naval Station Norfolk/Norfolk Naval Shipyard: 445-2721 ■ Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads: 444-2939 ■ Naval Air Station Oceana: 433-3268 ■ Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek Fort Story: 462-2792 ■ Naval Weapons Station Yorktown: 637-9082 For more information, visit the Resident Energy Conservation Program (RECP) website at www.cnic.navy.mil/ ffr/housing/recp.html.

B8 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

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■ special section The Flagship’s “Year in Review 2013” special section features brief summaries from last year’s top stories. On Liberty will return next week with the latest in movies, sports and local happenings.

2013 SECTION C

January

February

March

April

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August

September

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December

January President Barack Obama signed the $633 billion ﬁscal 2013 National Defense Authorization Act into law, Jan. 2. The act allowed the department to institute pay raises, bonuses and incentive pay for personnel.

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, assigned to the Harry S. Truman Strike Group, welcomed the Navy’s first female CVW commander during CVW-3’s change of command ceremony, Jan. 4. During the ceremony, which was conducted at Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana, Capt. Michael S. Wallace, commander of “Team Battle Axe,” was relieved by Capt. Sara A. Joyner. The Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Gary (FFG 51) and its embarked U.S. Coast Guard team leveraged the capabilities of partner nations and the interagency to intercept a small drug trafficking vessel and confiscated more than 600 pounds of cocaine while on patrol in U.S. 4th Fleet while conducting Operation Martillo, Jan. 4. Archive photos

After a complete renovation, the ship’s store aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) re-opened with a completely different appearance, Jan. 10. Truman’s ship’s store now resembles a Navy Exchange (NEX), like those found at almost any naval base. Sailors, former Riverines, and family members attended a disestablishment ceremony for Naval Expeditionary Combat Command’s Riverine Squadron (RIVRON) 3 at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, Jan. 17. The disestablishment marks the merger of offensive Riverine forces with defensive Maritime Expeditionary Security Forces to form the Coastal Riverine Force (CORIVFOR), formally established June 1, 2012. Following a nine-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea, the guided-missile destroyer USS Cole (DDG 67) returned to Naval Station Norfolk marking the successful conclusion of her maiden Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) deployment, Jan. 26. The ship departed last April for the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. While deployed, Cole achieved new records of success in equipment availability and mission readiness, being 100 percent operationally capable.

President Barack Obama took the ceremonial oath of ofﬁce for his second term as the 44th U.S. president and commander in chief on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, honoring the men and women in uniform who have preserved America’s freedoms throughout its history, Jan. 21. More than 5,000 military members were among more than a half million people who gathered on the National Mall to watch Obama and Vice President Joe Biden enter their second term.

February National Associa« The Na tion for the Advancement A of Colored People Peo (NAACP) presented its it prestigious Chairman’s Award A to the U.S. Navy’s ﬁrst ﬁ female African-American rican-A threestar admiral, Vice Adm. Ad Michelle Howard, H deputy commander of U.S. Fleet Forces, Feb. 1.

Wounded Warriors from Hampton Roads and Washington D.C. participated in an Adaptive Sports Training Camp hosted by Naval Station Norfolk (NSN), Feb. 8 - 10. The event was a Wounded Warrior Program event offering strength training exercises to help during their healing process.

Huntington Ingalls Industries celebrated significant progress as the 555-metric ton island was lowered onto the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) at the company’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division, Jan. 26. The island will serve as the command center for flight deck operations aboard the first of the next-generation class of aircraft carriers. Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert addressed the impact of Department of Defense budget cuts and the Pentagon’s “Pacific Pivot” shift in operational focus during a visit to San Diego, Jan. 31.

Members of the Norfolk Admirals hockey team visited the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), Feb. 13. The team was welcomed by the ship’s Executive Ofﬁcer Capt. Richard C. McCormack, to whom they presented a signed hockey stick.

Naval Station Norfolk participated in Exercise Citadel Shield 2013, Feb. 27-28. A regularly scheduled exercise, Citadel Shield is the largest force protection and anti-terrorism exercise conducted Navy wide by Commander, Navy Installations Command and is not in response to any speciﬁc threat.

Arleigh Burke-class Aegis destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) returned home to Naval Station Norfolk after completing an eight-month deployment to the 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of theater security cooperation, Feb. 26. The ship and her crew traveled more than 45,000 nautical miles during their deployment to the Eastern Mediterranean.

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C2 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

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September

November

December

March « After unveiling the freshly painted “Can Do Dozer” and cut-

ting the Seabee birthday cake, Amphibious Construction Battalion (PHIBCB) 2 stepped-off for a five-mile march on Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS), March 5, to celebrate the Seabee’s 71st birthday. The Navy honored USS Monitor Sailors, March 8, with a graveside interment ceremony at Arlington National Ceremony for the remains of two unknown Sailors recovered from the USS Monitor shipwreck. The unknown Sailors were lost along with 14 of their shipmates when Monitor sank off Cape Hatteras, N.C., Dec. 31, 1862. All 16 Sailors were memorialized on a group marker in section 46 of the cemetery, which is between the amphitheater and the USS Maine Mast memorial. USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) and Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) PMS 415’s Surface Ship Torpedo Defense (SSTD) team began at-sea testing and data collection of the Rapid Prototype Torpedo Warning System (TWS) and Countermeasure Anti-Torpedo (CAT) system, March 19. This marked the first aircraft carrier employment of the TWS, which was installed during the ship’s recent planned incremental availability (PIA) period. Bearing a large Easter basket brimming with cookies, first lady Michelle Obama visited seven families of recuperating service members at Fisher House No. 4 at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, March 20.

Archive photos

Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 embarked aboard aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE) flew its first combat sorties of its 2013 deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), March 24. The missions provide support to NATO forces on the ground in Afghanistan. The types of support range from electronic warfare and close-air support, to airborne command and control and reconnaissance. Rear Adm. Ted N. Branch, Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic, visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), March 25, and congratulated the crew on receiving the Naval Air Force Pacific Battle Efficiency (Battle “E”) award.

Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS) hosted its 86th annual Easter Sunday sunrise service at the historic Cape Henry Memorial Cross on Fort Story, March 31.

April On April 1 the launch of a year-round campaign was implemented throughout the Navy as part of an ongoing initiative to encourage Sailors to make choices that will help them keep what they have successfully earned during their naval career. The “Keep What You’ve Earned” (KWYE) campaign is a continuing effort to encourage responsible drinking habits by focusing on achievements through recognition for dedication and hard work in hope Sailors will realize how much can be lost if they make poor choices in regards to alcohol. More than 100 men and women from 15 commands donned women’s high heels for a walk around Naval Medical Center Portsmouth’s track to kick off Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), April 3. This is the 3rd annual “Walk a Lap in Her Heels” event, which is meant to draw attention to the topic, and was hosted by Morale, Welfare, and Recreation and Naval Station Norfolk’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SAPR).

Naval Medical Center Portsmouth observed the Holocaust Day of Remembrance in the Chapel, April 17, featuring a portion of the Holocaust Commission’s film “What We Carry” and guest speaker Kitty Saks, a survivor featured in the film. Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads (NSA HR) was one of many bases that recognized Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) during a Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) softball game, April 19. NSA HR defeated Naval Station Norfolk with a score of 6-4. Capt. David A. Culler, Jr., commanding officer of Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk, along with children and teachers from Willoughby Child Development Center (CDC), planted a tree in observance of Arbor Day, April 25.

With an estimated crowd of more than 5,000 on hand, USS Arlington (LPD 24) was commissioned, April 6, and joined the Navy’s ﬂeet of 283 warships, in an emotional, patriotic ceremony. The ship is named for the county of Arlington and honors the ﬁrst responders and the 184 victims who died when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon Sept. 11, 2001. Arlington is the eighth in Navy’s San Antonio-class of ships, designed to be the most survivable amphibious vessels ever put to sea.

May More than 4,000 people gathered to witness the commissioning of the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23) at the Port of Anchorage, May 4. The commissioning culminated more than seven years of construction and development for the seventh San Antonioclass LPD that was built at the Huntington Ingalls Industries Shipbuilding site in Avondale, La., and delivered to the U.S. Navy September 2012.

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 became the ﬁrst composite expeditionary helicopter squadron to include both the world’s most technologically advanced helicopter – the MH-60R Seahawk and the MQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Take-off and Landing Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (VTUAV) – during an establishment ceremony on Naval Air Station North Island, Calif., May 5.

The Hampton Roads community and The Flagship, Inc. celebrated the annual Heroes at Home: Military Spouse Awards, May 9, at the Founder’s Inn in Virginia Beach. Christina Lara, the wife of Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Pablo Lara, USS New York (LPD 21), was named the 2013 Heroes at Home Military Spouse of the Year. She accepted the award with her husband by her side. The ﬁrst day of the 2013 Warrior Games competitions kicked off with cycling events, wheelchair basketball and seated volleyball games at the Olympic Training Center at the Air Force Archive photos Academy Falcon Stadium in Colorado Springs, Colo., May 12.

Navy personnel in Oklahoma offered support to the community after an EF5 tornado struck Moore, Okla., and adjacent areas on the afternoon of May 20, with peak winds estimated at 210 miles per hour, killing 24 people and injuring 377 others.

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | C3

January

February

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June

July

Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk commemorated the 71st anniversary of the Battle of Midway (BOM) in a ceremony, June 5. The historic and decisive battle, which took place June 4-7, 1942 is regarded as the turning point in the Paciﬁc during World War II, U.S. Navy carrier strike forces, augmented by shorebased bombers and torpedo planes, decisively defeated an Imperial Japanese navy carrier task force during the battle.

As of July 1, vehicles regularly accessing Navy installations were no longer required to have permanent installationaccess decals. The elimination of the vehicle decal requirement improved security posture by providing electronic credentialing and increased scrutiny in the manual veriﬁcation of an authorized credential or identiﬁcation card.

More than 650 Sailors from commands throughout Hampton Roads marched in support of the “Keep What You’ve Earned” (KWYE) campaign on Naval Station Norfolk, July 2. The march came just before the holiday weekend to remind Sailors to make responsible decisions when it comes to alcohol during the holiday.

USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) conducted the first aircraft carrier-borne end-toend at-sea test of the Surface Ship Torpedo Defense (SSTD) System, June 6. The SSTD System combines the passive detection capability of the Torpedo Warning System that not only finds torpedoes, but also classifies and tracks them, with the hard-kill capability of the Countermeasure Anti-Torpedo, an encapsulated miniature torpedo.

More than 5,000 Sailors serving as part of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKECSG) returned to their homeports in Norfolk and Mayport, Fla., July 3, following ﬁve months of operations in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of responsibility. USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) and embarked squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, along with the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66), returned from their second deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet and 6th Fleet areas of operations in the past year.

A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft landed on Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) helicopter destroyer Hyuga (DDH 181) for the first time, June 14. The landing aboard Hyuga was the culmination of extensive planning by Sailors and Marines from Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, Expeditionary Strike Group 3, I Marine Expeditionary Force, 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade and was one of a series of live training events during amphibious exercise Dawn Blitz. USS Enterprise (CVN 65) made her final voyage to the Newport News Shipyard, June 20. The ship, nearly six months into her dismantling process, was moved by tugboat on the James River to Newport News Shipyard with almost 150 Newport News Shipbuilding and Huntington Ingalls Industries shipbuilders aboard. The move marks one of Enterprise’s final trips underway and is expected to be the last opportunity for shipbuilders and crew to ride the ship. The 3rd annual T.G.I. Fitness Challenge was held onboard Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk parade grounds in partnership with Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), June 21. The goal of the event was to raise physical fitness awareness and to provide an outlet for organized team building in an event geared toward Sailors and commands.

July 8 marked the beginning of 11 days of furlough for DOD civilian employees, between July and September. The total days were reduced to six after almost four weeks into the furlough status. Archive photos

Adm. Bill Gortney, Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces (USFF) command, promoted Nora W. Tyson to vice admiral in a ceremony held at USFF headquarters, July 15. Tyson assumed the position of deputy commander USFF and also is Director of the Combined Joint Operations from the Sea Center of Excellence (CJOS COE).

Rear Adm. Tim Alexander, Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, closed out his military career, July 12, marking 33 years of dedicated service to the U.S. Navy. Alexander relinquished command to Rear Adm. Dixon R. Smith.

C4 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

January

February

March

April

May

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July

August

September

October

November

December

August Twelve seriously wounded, ill and injured Sailors and Coast Guardsmen took part in a recreational adaptive sports camp, Aug. 1 - 3 at the Waterfront Athletic Complex on Naval Station Norfolk. It was the second event of its kind to take place at the naval station. In addition to wheelchair basketball and swimming, the threeday camp featured several new sports – adaptive lacrosse, racquetball and tennis – taught by world-class instructors.

On Aug. 7, Naval Weapons Station Yorktown celebrated 95 years of providing ordnance and technical support to the U. S. Navy with a concert by the U.S. Fleet Forces Band at the historic Yorktown Riverwalk. Capt. Lowell Crow, commanding ofﬁcer, WPNSTA Yorktown, was presented a proclamation by Walter Zaremba, Chairman of the York County Board of Supervisors, declaring Aug. 7 as “Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Day” in York County to commemorate the installation’s anniversary. The Navy announced, Aug. 9, the establishment of the Navy’s newest Sexual Assault Prevention and Response initiative, the Victims’ Legal Counsel Program, which will provide legal advice and advocacy for eligible victims of sexual assault. The Norfolk Tides hosted their sixth annual Navy Night at Harbor Park in Norfolk, Aug. 10, honoring Sailors serving worldwide. Navy Night gives the Tides an opportunity to show their appreciation to the U.S. Navy and to recognize active duty service members and retirees and their families for serving.

The ﬁrst recovery tests of the new Orion Human Space Flight crew module occurred the week of Aug. 15, aboard USS Arlington (LPD 24) at Naval Station Norfolk. The recovery efforts allowed NASA experts a hands-on opportunity to work closely with the Navy to plan the future crew module recovery process.

Master chiefs, senior chiefs, chiefs, chief selectees, Sailors of all ranks and thier family members soaked up some late summer sunshine and fresh air during the 2013 Run with the Chiefs 5K at Naval Station Norfolk, Aug. 23. More than 3,100 runners participated in the ninth annual 5K fun run. Archive photos

September « In an attempt to increase awareness for the issue of suicide, military members, including

about 85 Navy volunteers, and civilians gathered Sept. 7, for the eighth annual “Out of Darkness” Walk in Virginia Beach. Sailors and veterans arrived early to help set up information centers, booths for on-site counseling, water stations and ﬁrst-aid sites. Sept. 11, 2013 marked the 12th anniversary of 9/11, and memorial tributes were held across Hampton Roads and the entire country. An active shooter was reported inside the Naval Sea Systems Command headquarters building (Bldg. 197) on the Washington Navy Yard at 8:20 a.m. on Sept. 16. There were 12 fatalities in the shooting. Sailors attached to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) were treated to comedy, mixed with a message about preventing alcohol and drug abuse, at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 18. “Comedy is the Cure” featured comedian Bernie McGrenahan, who has been feature on “Late Night with Jay Leno” and is an active voice against alcohol abuse. The event was part of his “Comedy with a Message” tour and it’s geared toward educating service members about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse as well as suicide prevention.

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Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, pledged at a Pentagon ceremony, Sept. 20, that the Defense Department will never stop working to bring captured and missing service members home. To honor the continuing pain and sacriﬁces suffered by military families, Naval Station Norfolk and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS) recognized Gold Star Mother’s Day during two services and a reception at the JEBLCFS Chapel, Sept. 29.

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FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | C5

January

February

April

March

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

October On Oct. 1, thousands of DOD civilians were sent home in a furlough status to wait to be recalled back to work.

Archive photos

The fast attack submarines USS Virginia (SSN 774) and USS Minnesota (SSN 783) were selected as the initial two Virginia-class submarines to integrate female ofﬁcers, announced Oct. 15. A total of six female ofﬁcers, two Supply Corps and four nuclear-trained, will report aboard no later than January 2015. Naval Medical Center Portsmouth’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit celebrated its 16th annual NICU Reunion Oct. 19 with a picnic in NMCP’s gym bringing families and staff together to celebrate the children who spent time as babies being cared for in NICU.

Ofﬁcials announced, Oct. 23, that the Ofﬁce of Naval Research will deliver a more cost-effective, realistic simulator to train Sailors responsible for directing the movement of helicopters aboard ships.

November U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF) showcased the new flame-resistant variant (FRV) coveralls to senior enlisted leadership onboard Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk, Nov. 1. The FRVs are said to be a critical first step in improving the level of protection from flame and flash fire hazards associated with shipboard operations, as well as ensure shipboard environments are safe. Although the likelihood of a major shipboard conflagration is low, if it does happen, the consequences could be severe to fatal. Joint Enabling Capabilities Command (JECC) personnel deployed, Nov. 15, to support relief efforts in the Philippines following the devastating effects of Super Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda, the deadliest Philippine typhoon on record, killing more than 6,000 people. The Aegis guided-missile destroyer USS Gravely (DDG 107) returned home to Naval Station Norfolk, Nov. 18, marking the successful completion of her nine-month maiden deployment.

The Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer, USS Nitze (DDG 94), departed, Nov. 29, on a seven-month deployment to the 6th Fleet area of operations to conduct maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. The third annual Blood Donor Challenge took place in November to see which military service can donate the most blood units to the Armed Services Blood Program. The challenge took place in blood donation centers across the National Capital Region, as Soldiers and Sailors vied for bragging rights. The friendly competition, dubbed Army-Navy Blood Donor Challenge, “The Tradition of Challenge Meets the Challenge of Life.”

December Senior Defense Department, White House and congressional leaders bade farewell to Deputy Defense Secretary Ash Carter during a Pentagon ceremony marked by both laughter and tears, Dec. 2. Christine Fox, who was appointed by President Barack Obama, will serve as acting deputy defense secretary. On Dec. 12 - 15, the nonproﬁt organization Snowball Express offered its eighth annual all-expense paid, four-day event during the holidays for children and spouses of American military heroes who lost their lives while on active duty. The mission of Snowball Express is to help families heal by giving them the opportunity to share experiences and forge new friendships. Volunteers placed more than 143,000 wreaths on gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery, Dec. 14, as part of the 22nd annual “Wreaths Across America” event. The wreaths were manufactured by the Worcester Wreath Co. of Harrington, Maine, and came to the cemetery by truck over the week in advance of the event.

U.S. Fleet Forces Band ofﬁcially started the holiday season with a spirited performance for military families at the annual Holiday Concert at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story Gator Theater, Dec. 5. The free concert, which was open to all active duty and retired military, gave families a place to join together in a safe environment and celebrate the holidays with an impressive and authentic orchestra type show. Archive photos

C6 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

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Help Wanted

Announcements

Help Wanted

For Rent-Chesapeake House

-GML@KA<=

#HURCH OF #HRIST -EETS IN THE $IAMOND 3PRINGS 'ARDENWOOD 0ARK #IVIC ,EAGUE "UILDING (ADEN 2D AM 3UNDAYS

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Appliances Kenmore Washer/Dryer Set (white) $300.00 call 757-679-7938

Furniture-Household

Engineering Design-Build Construction O&M

Established in 1949, M.C. Dean has earned a reputation for excellence in systems integration for complex, mission-critical facilities, setting the industry standard for design-build-operate-maintain programs.

Living Room Elegant Table purchased from Haverty's - $300 (Hampton). Brand New, tags still on 63"L x 34W" glass top stunning table. Call 201-803-3482

Join the experience.

Brand New Layaway Available

MATTRESS SETS

Real Estate Services Are you moving to Naval Station Mayport or the Jacksonville, FL area? Allow Hover Girl Properties to assist you with the transition. We will be happy to provide all the information you need to buy, sell or rent real estate in Jacksonville, FL and surrounding areas. Please contact Joy Doyle @ 904-881-7775 or www.hovergirlproperties.com.

Western Branch like new 3 BR, 1.5 BA, garage, all appliances, available now $1,150 month.

Coastal Realty, Inc. 757-288-4663

Automobiles for Sale 2000 Ford Explorer Sport in good condition. 125K miles. Automatic. Heat, AC, power locks / windows, radio, and 4WD work. $1600. (757)816-5722

2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac EXCELLENT CONDITION, TAN COLOR, CUSTOM CAB,INSPECTION READY 127K MLS.$5,500 CALL 757-679-7938

For Rent-Condo Atlantic Ave-Oceanfront Condo on boardwalk.2BR, 2BA, Fully Furnâ€™d, amenties Incld, indoor pool, Exercise rm, Monthly $1500 incld utils. May rent as 1 BR for $1300. For more info & photos Call 909-708-9592.

PRE AUCTION VEHICLES AT DISCOUNTED PRICES

For Rent-House (All)

#31 â€˜92 CHEVY LUMINA $1347

House for rent in Hampton, VA, 3 BR, 1 BA, appliances. Smoke free, no pets, retired nbhd., $1,100 mo + security dep. Accessible to I-64 & I-664. 757-871-0543

#92 â€˜05 CHEVY MALIBU $1493

For Rent-Norfolk Apts

#01 â€˜97 ACURA INTEGRA $3993

#91 â€˜05 VOLVO S80 $3464

570 W. Oceanview Ave. â€“ Willoughby Spit BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT $915.00 mo. Near NAS Large 2 br/1 bath, 1st floor, $760 sq ft Pets neg call Tricia 735-2876 Owner/Agent.

#61 â€˜01 TOYOTA CELICA $4317 #31 â€˜05 HYUNDAI SONATA $4905

Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169

For Rent-Norfolk House

#62 â€˜02 RAV 4 $4999

40% Military Discount on all other sets!

Norfolk Riverview Area - 3 story, 3Br, 2Ba, Studio/w Ba. on top. Fenced Yard. All appliances. $1500 Mo. Call 628-8220.

#21 â€˜08 SUZUKI FORENZA $4999

Can deliver. 757-706-3667

For Rent-Rooms

#21 â€˜00 DODGE DAKOTA $4417

Chesapeake, Kempsville Area. Furnâ€™d Room, Cable & Internet, W/D. All Utils. incld. Close to interstate. $600 mo. Call 573-2040.

#42 â€˜02 CHEVY AVALANCHE $7676

Wanted To Buy

Apply at www.mcdean.com/careers.

WWII Relics. Retired Vet seeks WWII helmets, medals, daggers, etc. 757-869-1739

scan me

With more than 2,700 employees in over 25 ofďŹ ces worldwide, we are looking for talented, passionate people to build their

Childcare

careers with us. Visit www.mcdean.com to learn more about M.C. Dean and possible career opportunities.

For Rent-Va.Beach House Brigadoon/Va Beach 4BR 2-1/2 bath, 1780sq ft , $1600.00/mo. All appls. incl W/D, Call 757-404-8530/ advan49@cox.net.

RENTALS TPSRENTALS.COM (757) 496-1986

#77 â€˜99 VW PASSAT $5905

#41 â€˜05 HONDA CIVIC $7984 #62 â€˜04 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER $8317 #21 â€˜07 TOYOTA CAMRY $9765 #21 â€˜02 TOYOTA CELICA $9807 #91 â€˜07 CHEVY TRAILBLAZER $9978 #11 â€˜05 TOYOTA SEQUOIA $13979

Licâ€™d. Agent

#91 â€˜08 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER $14955

For Sale-Home (All)

#32 â€˜06 LEXUS GX 470 $18988

Kiln Creek, Newport News. 5 Bdrms, 2.5 baths, 2596 sq ft, $320,000 negotiable, immediate occupancy. 875-9557.

For Sale-Norfolk Home

22461 Shaw Road Dulles VA 20166 1-800-7-MCDEAN ÂŠ2013 M.C. Dean, Inc.

OIL & FILTER CHANGES & STATE INSPECTIONS FOR LIFE!

BRING IT! WE BUY CARS & TRUCKS! *NO WHOLESALES PLEASE* PRIORITY TOYOTA

Childcare in my Hampton Home. Mon - Fri. Licence & CPR Certified. Call 757-768-8008

M.C. Dean, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer M/F/D/V

*TITLE-TAXES & TAG* $599 PROCESSING FEE EXTRA

General Repairs T.H.G. Construction & Handyman Services Class A Contractor. 33 years of service 757-897-1637

FREE

213-5006

9556 16th Bay St. 4br/2.5 ba. Under construction $299,900. Wood floors, stainless steel kitchen appliances. You can't beat the value! Call Kelly Hollowell, 717-5022. Rose and Womble

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FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | JAN 9, 2014 | THE FLAGSHIP | C7

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• Only 5 ads per week, per household • Renewals, corrections and cancellations cannot be taken by phone and must be resubmitted • Illegible, too long or otherwise do not conform to instructions will not be published and must be resubmitted for the next issue • Automotive ads must begin with make, model and year • Real estate ads must begin with name of city, neighborhood and must be your primary residence. • Ads will not be accepted via official mailing channels such as guard mail or postage and fees paid indicia. • Free ads cannot be of a commercial nature (i. e., business opportunities, help wanted, etc) and must be personal property of the eligible member. Should not represent a sustained income or business or listed through agents or representatives. • When advertising a home for rent or home for sale, the home must be THE PRIMARY RESIDENCE. (All rental properties are considered paid ads.)

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

1 IN 6 AMERICANS STRUGGLES WITH HUNGER.

WE DO NOT ACCEPT CALLS FOR FREE CLASSIFIED ADS Deadline Thursday, 5 p.m. for the following week’s publications

TOGETHER WE’RE

Hunger is closer than you think. Reach out to your local food bank for ways to do your part. Visit FeedingAmerica.org today.

FunandGames Sudoku

Religious Services JEB Little Creek Chapel JEB Fort Story Chapel ROMAN CATHOLIC Mass schedule: 5 p.m., Sat. (fulfills Sunday obligation) 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m. , Sun. Fellowship: 10 a.m., Sun. Choir practice: 6 p.m., Tues. Confessions: 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Sat.

ROMAN CATHOLIC Mass schedule: 9 a.m., Sun. Bible study: 9:30 a.m., Tues. PROTESTANT Worship service:11 a.m., Sun. Bible study: Noon, Wed.

Naval Station Norfolk PROTESTANT Sun. School : 9 a.m. Sun. (Ages 4 - Adult) AWANA / Children’s Church : 10 a.m., Sun. (Ages 4 - 10) Worship service:10:30 a.m., Sun. Fellowship: 11:30 a.m., Sun. Coffeehouse: 6 p.m., Sun. Bible Study/ Band Practice: 5 p.m., Mon. PWOC: 9:30 a.m., Wed Choir practice: 6 p.m., Wed. LATTER DAY SAINTS Worship: 11:30 a.m., Sun. (Chapel Annex Classroom 1) Meeting: 7 p.m., Wed. (Chapel Annex Classroom 4)

lastweek'sanswers

CryptoQuip answer If a person swallows a couple of stinging insects, could you then say there are two bees in a bod?

ROMAN CATHOLIC Our Lady of Victory Chapel Mass schedule: 11:45 a.m., Wed. | 10 a.m., Sun. PROTESTANT David Adams Memorial Chapel Worship services: 10:30 a.m., Sun. Jewish SABBATH Commodore Levy Chapel (Second Floor Bldg. C7) Sabbath: 7:30 p.m., Fri. (Sabbath Fellowship Oneg Shabbot Follows)

* Nursery care is available Sundays, 10 a.m. - Noon

ISLAMIC WORSHIP: Masjid al Da’wah 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7) Services: 1:30 p.m., Fri. Chapels are open daily for prayer.

NWS Yorktown Chapel

NAS Oceana Chapel

ROMAN CATHOLIC ROMAN CATHOLIC Mass schedule: 8:30 a.m., Sun. Mass schedule: 11:30 a.m., Tues.-Fri. PROTESTANT 9 a.m. & 12:15 p.m., Sun. Worship service:10:30 a.m., Sun. PROTESTANT Sun. school: 9:15 a.m., Sun. NSA Northwest Worship service: 10:40 a.m., Annex Chapel Sun. ROMAN CATHOLIC Bible study: 11 a.m., Wed. Rosary: 9:30 a.m., Sun. Confessions: 9:30 a.m., Sun. Dam Neck Annex Mass Schedule: 10 a.m., Sun. Chapel CCD (Sept-May) 11 a.m., Sun. ROMAN CATHOLIC Confessions: 4:15 p.m., Sat. PROTESTANT (EPISCOPAL) Mass Schedule: 5 p.m., Sat. Worship service: 8 a.m., Sun. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL PROTESTANT July 29 - Aug. 2; 6 to 8 p.m. Worship service: 9 a.m., Sun.

contact info

duty chaplain

Norfolk: 444-7361 JEBLCFS: 462-7427 Yorktown: 887-4711 Oceana: 433-2871 Dam Neck: 492-6602 NSA Northwest Annex: 421-8204

The Duty Chaplain stands by to serve and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Conversations are confidential. Contact the Duty Chaplain by calling 438-3822.

For stories from the Chaplain’s Corner, visit www.flagshipnews.com/news/chaplains_corner/

4-Day Sale!

C8 | THE FLAGSHIP | JAN 9, 2014 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

Prices effective Wednesday, January 8 thru Saturday, January 11, 2014

10$

Kroger Wafﬂes Select Varieties, 10 ct

for

Select Varieties, 2 ct

for

With Card

Stouffer’s Satisfying Servings Entrée Select Varieties, 6-20 oz or Lean Cuisine Culinary Collection Entrée, 6-12 oz

for

With Card

10$

Select Varieties, 8 ct

for

Select Varieties, 6 oz

With Card

10$

Minute Maid Drinks Select Varieties, 59 oz

for

Visit our website at www.kroger.com for additional savings.

With Card

Items & prices good in Hampton Roads thru Saturday, January 11, 2014

Kroger Yogurt

With Card

Pillsbury Grands Biscuits

Hot or Lean Pockets

Senior Rewards

SAVE 5% Tuesday

Every Senior born in 1954 or before will SAVE 5% on their total grocery bill every Tuesday. Certain restrictions apply. See store for details. (Alcohol, Tobacco & Pharmacy Prescriptions Excluded)