Issuu

DAM NECK INSTRUCTOR SELECTED AS CSCS’S TOP SAILOR PAGE 6 VOLUME 52 NO. 5

FEBRUARY 7, 2013

SERVING NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA

INSIDEJET

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DAM NECK ANNEX

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NALF FENTRESS

Target launch at Dam Neck

STRIKE FIGHTER WING NAMES SOYS

PAGE 4

TAKING THE PLUNGE FOR A GOOD CAUSE

PAGE 9 The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles will offer their mobile service, “DMV2GO” from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the NEX parking lot on Feb. 25, March 29, April 29, May 31, June 28 and July 31. Many of the regular DMV services will be available.

Photos by MC2 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos

Two BQM-74E targets are readied to launch from Dam Neck Annex out to USS Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) for a live ﬁre missile exercise, in preparation for the ARG’s upcoming deployment. A total of three targets were launched Jan. 26 by a team of DoD civilians and government contractors from NAVAIR’s 5.3.3 Atlantic Targets and Marine Operations Division at Dam Neck. The targets are propelled by two jet-assisted takeoff (JATO) bottles and a jet engine which will accelerate the target up to 230 knots in approximately 2 seconds. The targets are 13 feet long, weigh up to 600 pounds and are capable are ﬂying up to nearly 500 knots, at altitudes ranging from 7 feet up to 40,000 feet.

Harry S. Truman Strike Group completes COMPTUEX BY MC2 LEONA MYNES Harry S.Truman Strike Group Public Affairs NORFOLK (NNS) — Harry S. Truman Strike Group (HSTSG), underway since Jan. 14, completed its composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) and returned to Naval Station Norfolk Feb. 3. COMPTUEX was a scenario-based pre-deployment exercise assessed by Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic (CSFTL). CSFTL ensured HSTSG can carry out a broad

scope of missions efficiently and effectively when operating in the 5th fleet and 6th fleet areas of responsibility. “This was a difficult scenario. We threw a lot of problems at the strike group and its ships to make sure this team performs as a team and to acceptable combat standards,” said Rear Adm. Scott Craig, CSFTL. “I have all the confidence in the world that when HSTSG gets the call to deliver, the strike group can deliver and will do so with precision.” HSTSG conducted several scenario-based missions including maritime interdiction operations;

electronic, air, surface and subsurface warfare; electronic, air, surface and subsurface defense; — See COMPTUEX Page 7

“

I have all the conﬁdence in the world that when HSTSG gets the call to deliver, the strike group can deliver and will do so with precision.” — Rear Adm. Scott Craig, commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic

2 JET OBSERVER • February 7, 2013

BASE BRIEFS » » »» » »»»»»»» Tuskegee Airmen, Montford Point Marines presentation NAS Oceana and CNATTU are hosting the Montford Point Marines and Tuskegee Airmen Feb. 8 for a prayer breakfast at 8 a.m. at the Oceana Galley and an 11 a.m. presentation at CNATTU in building 223. Both events are open to all hands. For more information, call Master Sgt. Curt Clarke at 433-3209.

American Idol ﬁnalist to be at NEX Danny Gokey, national recording artist and a top three ﬁnalist during American Idol’s 8th season, will be at NEX Oceana and NEX Norfolk to promote his eyeglass frame label. While at the NEXs, he will sign autographs for customers and play an acoustic set of his music. Gokey will be at NEX Oceana Feb. 8 at 3 p.m. The Danny Gokey eyewear trunk show event will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.He will appear at NEX Norfolk Feb. 9 at noon and the trunk show will be at NEX Norfolk from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Only authorized NEX customers may attend the event.

Military Saves Forum

Fleet and Family Support Center is hosting the Military Saves Leadership Forum, Feb. 13 9 - 11 a.m., at the Oceana Officers’ Club. All military leadership, including commanding and executive officers, command master chiefs and their spouses, as well as comOceana track to be upgraded mand financial specialists, are invited to attend. The NAS Oceana will begin construction on a new synthetic keynote speaker will be retired Vice Adm. John Mazach. track and field in the spot of the current one within the For more information, call the FFSC at 433-2912. next couple of weeks. The existing track will be closed once construction begins.Track and field users can call the STA-21 Career Days The Seaman to Admiral-21 Career Days Program will be Flightline Fitness Center at 433-3901 for more information. Feb.14,9 - 10:30 a.m.at the Center for Naval AviationTech- The new track and field should be finished near the beginning of summer. nical Training Unit Oceana. The contract was awarded in August 2012 using FY12 The presentation will inform potential fleet applicants funds to Landscapes Unlimited, LLC. The construction at how to receive an STA-21 college scholarship, including Oceana will cost approximately $886,000 and will include eligibility criteria, application procedures and the progrinding and resurfacing the track with a red synthetic gram deadline. Other officer accession programs will also rubber wearing course. The existing grass surface inside be discussed. Hampton Roads NROTC officer candidates the track will also be removed and replaced with a multiwill share their experiences and answer questions. purpose synthetic grass field, complete with striping for For more information, call retired Lt. David Boisselle at soccer and football. Finally, the existing water fountain will 352-4757 or email dboisselle@regent.edu. be replaced.

Tax Assistance Center The Tax Assistance Center (TAC) will be open through April 30. TAC is located on Oceana in building 320, 799 Hornet Dr. Suite 100, with the Region Legal Services Ofﬁce,Mid-Atlantic Branch Ofﬁce.Hours of operation will be from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. This site will accommodate walk-ins at self-service tax

NMCRS raises Quick Assist Loans to $500 From the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Arlington, Va., — Sailors and Marines serving on active duty can now apply for a Quick Assist Loan (QAL) for up to $500 at all 51 Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) full service ofﬁces located on Navy and Marine Corps installations worldwide. Most QALs can be processed on a walk-in basis in about 15 minutes.Active duty Marines and Sailors must apply in person. QALs are short-term, interest-free loans available to service members facing a family emergency or other urgent ﬁnancial situation. QALs are available to Sailors and Marines who: • Are on active duty

JET Observer Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, VA 23460 Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach and NALF Fentress, Chesapeake Commanding Officer - Capt. Robert N. Geis Executive Officer - Capt. Kit Chope Public Affairs Officer - Kelley Stirling Editor - Cathy Heimer Jet@militarynews.com www.oceanajetobserver.com https://cnic.navy.mil/oceana PHONE (757)433-3360

Southside: (757)222-3990 Peninsula: (757)596-0853 Fax: 853-1634

preparation terminals on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis and also provide one-on-one tax preparation services, limited to customers unable to use self- service terminals due to disability, by appointment only. Call 444-9081 for an appointment.

• Have no outstanding loans with NMCRS •Need help with basic living expenses or family emergencies “This program is our best defense against questionable payday lenders who create a cycle of debt with tripledigit interest and short-term repayments that adversely impact our service members and their families” said Executive Vice President, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Carl Jensen. Last year,the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society provided more than 43,000 QALs to active duty Sailors and Marines. For more information visit www.nmcrs.org/QAL or contact the NMCRS ofﬁce at NAS Oceana at 433-3383 or visit their ofﬁce in building 531.

Published every Thursday by Military Newspapers of Virginia, a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with the Commanding Officer, Naval Air Station Oceana. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services and NAS Oceana civilian employees. Contents of the paper are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Military Newspapers of Virginia of the products or services advertised.

Chapel Schedule of Services Chapel of the Good Shepherd, Oceana Protestant

Catholic

Sunday Sunday School - 9 a.m. Worship (main chapel) 10:40 a.m.

Mass – Tues-Fri, 11:30 a.m. Sun. Mass - 9 a.m., 12:15 p.m.

Chapel by the Sea, Dam Neck - 492-6602 Contemporary Protestant Worship Sunday 9 a.m.

Confession Saturday 4 p.m. Catholic Worship 5 p.m. Adult and children’s Bible Study, following 9 a.m. worship Coffee House - Wednesday, 6 p.m.

Naval Station Norfolk Jewish Services - Fri - 7:30 p.m., Naval Station Norfolk - 444-7361 Islamic Services - Fri - 1:30 p.m., Masjid al Da’waj 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7) Contact Chaplains: NAS Oceana at 433-2871, CVW-1 at 433-3676 CVW-7 at 433-2247, CVW-8 at 433-2420, CVW-3 at 433-2098, FRC Oceana at 433-9286

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunities by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Office, Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, Va. Deadline to submit copy is Thursday, noon, seven days prior to publication date.

February 7, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 3 y ,

RPCM Steven McComas (center), cuts a piece of cake for RPSA Angelique Fernandez as retired Master Chief James H. Graham looks on during a cakecutting ceremony for the 34th anniversary of the religious programs specialist rating at VFW Post 1503 in Dale City, Va. Graham was the ﬁrst senior enlisted leader for the religious programs specialist rating.

Chaplain’s

Corner

Special delivery BY CMDR. VINSON MILLIER NAS Oceana Command Chaplain I keep a photo on my desk of my wife and children that dates back to my first tour in the Navy. My wife is holding our newborn son, with my daughter standing by her side. I’m not in the photograph because a week earlier, USS Independence (CV 62) and I were en route to the Gulf, my second cruise to those warm waters. Besides it being a favorite photograph, it reminds me of two things:the sacrifices our families make for us and how others can be remarkable for their support amid this way of life in service to our nation. I remain humbled by what service member’s loved ones do in support of those who deploy. First set into my arms at 5 months of age,my“little guy”has grown to be a head taller than me and in the next year, hopes to enter into the nation’s service.Time does pass quickly. As for my wife, humbled is a good word because she went through a 36 1/2 hour labor to deliver our son,left the hospital the next day, and a few days later prepared our home to receive what became 15 house guests — courtesy of a typhoon that required all off-base families to take shelter in everyone’s on-base housing. To this day, I cannot fathom how my wife did it all! Those of us who deploy rarely have a full understanding — but we can appreciate those efforts out of our sight. The photograph itself had its own journey. In those days, email was still pretty new and we depended upon very slow mail delivery. However, there was another wife who took this favorite photo of mine and had my wife write a quick note… got them to a friend, who got them to someone else, and then on... Two days later, amid what was to become a three-week mail drought, I was surprised by a call from ship’s admin department. I had mail! Weird, I thought, as the only flight had been the ambassador to Singapore making a quick flight to and from our ship. There was no “mail” landing announced. It seems the ambassador had carried the photo and letter aboard.To this day, I remain deeply grateful for that small act of kind support, one which I have well-remembered as an example to emulate. We but have to look around NAS Oceana and Dam Neck to rapidly become aware of the numbers of those who are presently deployed, or who are away — See Appreciation, Page 10

Religious program specialists celebrate 34 years of service STORY/PHOTO BY CHRISTIANNE M. WITTEN Chaplain Corps Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) — More than 60 religious program specialists (RPs) and guests from across the national capital region gathered Jan. 19 at the Chesty Puller VFW Post 1503 in Dale City,Va., to celebrate the 34th anniversary of the establishment of the religious program specialists (RP) rating. During his invocation, Chief of Navy Chaplains Rear Adm. Mark Tidd said, “RPs have supported the ministry of chaplains from over 100 religious traditions.They have ensured that our people are able to practice their faith, whether at sea or ashore, in combat or in garrison. And they have kept a watchful eye and a ready weapon to provide security in dangerous areas. “One moment they can be engaged in combat operations, and in the next moment bringing hope to people devastated by a natural disaster. RPs have met every challenge with courage, tenacity and creativity.” The event also featured an inaugural anniversary video message from Master Chief Dino Medler, 13th senior enlisted leader for the RP rating, and Senior Chief Scott Quinn,RP of the Marine Corps,highlighting the signiﬁcant contributions of RPs. Medler made particular reference to the record number of “RPs recognized Navywide [in 2012] with at least ﬁve RPs awarded Sailors of the Quarter and at least nine command Sailors of the Year.” A POW/MIA table served as a solemn reminder of those service members unable to join in the festivities. Quinn remarked, as he read a script,“we join together to pay our humble tribute to them and bear witness to their continued absence and the purity of their intentions to respond

to their country’s call to arms.” Chief Andy Duprey read the official All Marines Message from the commandant (ALMAR 002/13), citing RPs as “force multipliers that are in tune with the needs of today’s warfighter.” Chief Montana Sor read the official anniversary letter from Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Michael Stevens where he stated,“It is vital our Sailors, Marines and their families are grounded not only physically and mentally, but spiritually as well.Your motto ‘exceed the expected’ is fitting to the outstanding service and support you provide to them every day around the world.” The guest speaker for the evening, retired Master Chief James H. Graham, was instrumental in the establishment of the RP rating in 1978. He had recently connected with Medler during a Veterans Day service at their community church in Woodbridge, Va. and was later invited to share his experiences during the RP anniversary ball. During his remarks, he recalled,“once we got approval for the rating, we had to staff it, create a rating badge, as well as set up training for RPs as Navy combatants, serving with Marines.” He went on to add “the selection for the initial 160 candidates for the rating was very serious business. We got hundreds of applicants and our decision would change their career.” At the conclusion of his remarks, Medler presented Graham with an engraved pocket watch with the RP logo on the inside. The ceremonial cake-cutting followed, which honored the longest serving RP present, Master Chief Thomas McComas, the senior enlisted RP for the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, and the youngest RP present, Seaman Apprentice Angelique Nicole Fernandez,who enlisted in the Navy April 16, 2012 and is currently assigned to Naval District Washington. When asked how she felt to be a part of the ceremony alongside the master chief instrumental in the establishment of the RP rating, Fernandez replied,“It was such an honor, and I will remember this for the rest of my life. I will get to tell my children and my grandkids about it.That makes me so excited.”

4 JET OBSERVER • February 7, 2013 y ,

Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic presents Sailor of Year awards BY CYNTHIA WHITMAN Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic Public Affairs Ofﬁcer Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic (CSFWL) Capt. Paul F. Gronemeyer, awarded presented awards to the CSFWL Shore Chief of the Year, Shore Sailor of the Year and Shore Junior Sailor of the Year during a ceremony Jan. 18.

Shore Chief of the Year Aviation Boatswain’s Mate - Handling (AW/SW) Maxalex Fequiere is the 2012 CSFWL Shore Chief of theYear. Fequiere,who serves as the first lieutenant and fleet liaison representative, received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his performance from January 2012 to December 2012. Demonstrating superior leadership, Fequiere led six chief petty officers and more than 380 Sailors in the coordinated space turnover for 20 squadrons, including Top Gun and Blue Angels detachments, ensuring the smooth and timely transition of spaces prior to and return from deploy-

ments. Additionally, his leadership was instrumental in building a cohesive team of Sailors from various squadrons,who led the renovation of seven hangars for 17 squadrons, including upgrades to rooﬁng and heating systems.

Shore Sailor of the Year Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class (AW/SW) Shantani Pannell is the 2012 CSFWL Shore Sailor of the Year. Pannell,who has served as maintenance administration leading petty officer, received the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation for her performance from January 2010 to February 2013. Pannell’s rating knowledge and technical expertise were critical in the development of tailored training for 113 aviation maintenance administrationmen, contributing to the verification of 582 technical directives, encompassing more than 300 F/A-18 Hornets and 2,500 pieces of support equipment. She also streamlined the acceptance and transfer processes between squadrons and fleet readiness centers, decreasing lost

Photos by YNC Goba

ABOVE: Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic’s Shore Chief of the Year ABHC (AW/SW) Maxalex Fequiere (l) is presented the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal by Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic Capt. Paul F. Gronemeyer on Jan. 18. Gronemeyer also presented awards to (above r) AZ1(AW/SW) Shantani Pannell as the Shore Sailor of the Year and (below r) LS2(AW) Daronda L. Bailey as the Shore Junior Sailor of the Year. maintenance man hours.

Shore Junior Sailor of the Year

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Logistics Specialist 2nd Class (AW) Daronda L. Bailey is the 2012 CSFWL Shore Junior Sailor of the Year. Bailey who serves as material control leading petty ofﬁcer received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for her performance from February 2010 to March 2013. Bailey’s attention to detail and cost com-

parative research as the primary purchasing agent and transportation of things (TOTs) manager directly resulted in a combined savings of more than $1 million for the East Coast strike ﬁghter community. Her active involvement as a command Morale Welfare and Recreation committee member also helped raise more than $7,500 towards two successful command holiday parties.

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CS2(AW) Steven A. Kane from the Dam Neck galley (r) is presented the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal by Capt. Bob Geis, NAS Oceana commanding ofﬁcer, Feb. 1. Kane earned the award for his work as the commissary area inventory control manager for the 2012 NAS Oceana Air Show, Sept. 14 -16. He managed more than 30 volunteers and was responsible for more than $160,000 in concession goods and food concession stands. Geis also presented NAMs to CS1(SCW) Allen R. Bush and CS3 Joshua W. Abshire from the galley for their work during the air show. Photo by MC3 Harry Andrew D. Gordon

February y 7,, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 5

Gladiators’ carrier quals

Navy to implement new Fleet RIDE/PTS rules From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

Photo by MC3 Kevin J. Steinberg

An F/A-18F Super Hornet from the “Gladiators” of VFA-106 prepares to land on the ﬂight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Jan. 27. George H.W. Bush is conducting training and carrier qualiﬁcations in the Atlantic Ocean.

MILLINGTON,Tenn. (NNS) — The Navy will implement two new programming changes within the Fleet RIDE-Perform to Serve (FR-PTS) system that are designed to align the FR-PTS and Career Management System-Interactive Detailing (CMS-ID) application windows, helping Sailors with order negotiations, and improving system efﬁciency for career counselors, according to a Navy message released Feb. 1. NAVADMIN 021/13 announces the automation of Special Circumstance FR-PTS Applications for Projected Rotation Date (PRD) for Sailors who will have less than 24 months of obligated service remaining at their PRD. Sailors who will have more than 24 months of obligated service remaining at their PRD do not require FR-PTS approval to negotiate orders. Beginning Feb. 4, FR-PTS automatically

generated a Special Circumstance Application 15 months prior to a Sailor’s PRD, if they will have less than 24 months of obligated service remaining at their PRD.This gives career counselors three months to submit the application. These Sailors will receive up to three looks in FR-PTS 12, 11, and 10 months prior to their PRD. Sailors who receive a special circumstance quota will be able to reenlist for up to six years to cover any obligated service for their next set of orders. If a Sailor does not receive a quota,detailers will be able to make a determination sooner if the Sailor will remain at their current command or if orders will be issued in accordance with sea shore ﬂow. Under the old method, detailers would wait for FRPTS determination. Some Sailors didn’t get FR-PTS approval prior to their PRD, placing them in the needs-of-the-Navy-window and — See New rules, Page 10

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6 JET OBSERVER • February 7, 2013 y ,

Operations specialist at Dam Neck selected as top Sailor for CSCS BY OS1 DANIEL OSTERBERG Center for Surface Combat Systems Unit Dam Neck DAHLGREN, Va. — The Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) announced its 2012 Junior Enlisted Instructor of the Year Feb. 5. Operations Specialist (OS) 2nd Class (SW) Adrian Clark was ecstatic to hear the results. “The competition was tough and it is an honor to have been selected among so many worthy candidates,” he said. Clark teaches Sailors how to operate the Navy’s modern tactical data networks at CSCS Unit (CSCSU) Dam Neck. CSCSU Dam Neck’s Senior Enlisted Leader, Master Chief Fire Controlman Frank Oborny emphasized that Clark has made an outstanding impact on the Navy’s mission. “It is imperative that Sailors enrolled in our courses receive the highest quality training possible,” he said. “Students who

improve the quality of graduate from OS2 Clark’s courses will Sailors who graduate employ their training our courses.” aboard ships in supCapt. Don Schmieport of the nation’s ley, CSCS commanding interests. He always officer, congratulated ensures the courses he Clark and thanked him teaches are constantly for his exceptional performance. updated to reflect the “Once again, I conever-changing global tinue to be amazed mission of the Navy.” with the professionIn Clark’s case, it is alism and excellence especially essential to CSCS instructors exstay up to date due to hibit on a daily basis the Navy’s increasing and OS2 Clark has truly reliance on advanced made his mark not only data exchange systems. OS2(SW) Adrian Clark “Tactical data ‘links’ in the domain, but also are indispensable in the emerging arena of in the fleet,” he said. Clark joined the Navy from his homeballistic missile defense,” said Clark’s leading supervisor, OS1 Corey Snowden. “His town of Virginia Beach,serving in the Navy expertise in this subject matter makes him since 2005, including a tour aboard the uniquely qualified to instruct the next gen- Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate USS Carr eration of Sailors. I am thrilled to see him (FFG 52). Clark says he looks forward to his next recognized for the work he has done to

tour aboard the Ticonderoga-class guidedmissile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61), as a subject matter expert returning to the fleet with the most current rating knowledge, benefiting the Surface Warfare Enterprise and the Navy as a whole. Clark will now go on to compete for Naval Education and Training Command’s Junior Enlisted Instructor of the Year. “I am both grateful and honored to represent CSCS in the NETC-wide competition,” said Clark. The Center for Surface Combat Systems Headquarters’ staff oversees 14 learning sites, including CSCS Unit Dam Neck, and provides 80,000 hours of curriculum and 670 courses a year to more than 50,000 Sailors. The mission of CSCSU Dam Neck is to develop and deliver surface ship combat systems training to achieve surface warfare superiority. CSCS Unit Dam Neck provides many different curriculums, and is a primary training facility for several Navy combat systems ratings.

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February 7, 2013 â€˘ JET OBSERVER 7

Photo by MC3 Billy Ho

ATAN Alexandria Hannum (l), and AT2 Christopher Diaz perform maintenance on an F/A-18C Hornet from the â€œGunslingersâ€?of VFA-105 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Jan. 23. Harry S. Truman was underway, conducting a composite training unit exercise in preparation for its upcoming deployment.

COMPTUEX: Truman Strike Group ready for deployment â€” Continued from page 1 integrated air defense and ďŹ‚ight operations. small boat and low slow ďŹ‚yer detection â€œIt is exciting to work with the [Harry S. and deterrence; integrated air and surface Truman] strike group,â€? said Page.â€œTogether, warfare; combat ďŹ‚ight operations; counter- we bring the best of what navies all around unmanned air vehicle drills; straits transits; the world offer to provide a maritime presand replenishence in a part of ments-at-sea. the world that â€œThe crew of needs us.â€? Truman is absoAboard Truman lutely ready for (CVN 75) are her d e p l o y m e n t ,â€? crew, Commandsaid Command er, Carrier Strike Master Chief Group (CCSG) ( S W / AW / I DW ) 10, Carrier Air Raymond D. Wing (CVW) 3, Kemp, USS Harry and 1st ComS. Truman (CVN bined Destroyer 75). â€œWe have Squadron (1CDS). been tried, asIn addition to sessed, inspected Photo by MC3 Lorenzo J. Burleson Gettysburg, USS and tested. No Adm. Bill Gortney, commander of U.S. Fleet Forces Monterey (CG matter what en- Command, greets PR1 Curtis Matthews on the ďŹ‚ight 61), guided-misemy we are sent deck of the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN sile frigate USS to engage, we are 75) Jan. 31. Gortney visited Harry S. Truman to ob- Kaufmann (FFG ready to engage, serve operations during COMPTUEX. 59), guided-misand we shall be sile destroyers victorious.â€? USS Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Barry According to Lt. j.g.Aubrey Page, naviga- (DDG 52), Canadian ships HMCS Ville de tor aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Quebec (FFH 332) and HMCS Preserver Gettysburg (CG 64), Sailors aboard Gettys- (AOR 510), and German frigate FGS Hamburg are equally as ready for deployment. burg (F220) also participated. Gettysburg During COMPTUEX, Gettysburg Sailors and Hamburg will join Truman for deployhoned skills in shipâ€™s self defense,weapons, ment.

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8 JET OBSERVER • February 7, 2013

FFSC’s Thrift Savings Plan offers tools to build savings BY MC3 HARRY ANDREW D. GORDON NAS Oceana Public Affairs Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) hosted the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Plan workshop on Jan. 23 at NAS Oceana.This program is designed to help educate military and Department of Defense (DOD) civilians about the advantages of using TSP. Every service member has different ways of saving money. TSP is a method provided by the DOD and is designed to help save money and prepare for retirement.TSP is introduced to all military at the beginning of their careers. Despite this early introduction, not everyone is clear on the structure and benefits of the program.To help inform potential participants, FFSC provides the training free of cost. TSP is a retirement savings plan, similar to the 401(k) plans offered by civilian employers, which entails automatic payroll deductions,tax deductions for contributions and a variety of withdrawal options. “TSP is a -program which helps members save money during their time of service,” said Shannon Davis, financial educator at Oceana’s FFSC.“It is something a service member can take with them, and they can have different options once they separate from the military or retire.” TSP is an optional program that takes a few steps to get started. Once someone enrolls, an account is created in their name and they become a participant. Service members can enroll by filling out either a hard copy TSP-U-1 form and delivering it to their personnel support detachment, or submit the form electronically through MyPay. Once enrolled, participants can establish their monthly

contributions to the account and adjust how they want their money invested. “I have TSP and I think it is convenient how it is deducted from my paycheck automatically,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate - Equipment 3rd Class (AW) Nakisha Cardwell, from the Oceana quarterdeck and a four-year TSP participant.“It has taught me a lot about saving and investing my money and has helped me create good saving habits.” Once the account is enrolled,TSP will mail participants a welcome package with their account number,TSP information, instructions, a password for internet access and a personal identiﬁcation number (PIN). When an account is created, all contributions are automatically deposited into the government Securities Investment (G) Fund.The G Fund is a short-term fund invested in the U.S.Treasury Securities that gives members an opportunity to earn interest with no risk of loss. There are several additional funds members can invest in as well. These funds include the Fixed Income Index Fund (F), the Common Stock Index Fund (C ), the Small Capitalization Stock Index Fund (S), International Stock Index Investment Fund (I) and the Lifecycle Fund (L) designated for members who may not have time, experience or interest in managing their retirement savings. Although participants can invest their money in any of the several funds, some funds may be risky and require time and attention to ensure they get the best savings possible. Each of the funds has associated beneﬁts and risks. Investors are advised to look at each closely and seek advice prior to choosing the fund that best suits them. Once a service member separates, they are no longer

Super Bowl signals Lt. Derek Bintz signals to the pilot of a T-45C Goshawk training aircraft from the “Eagle” of VT-7, while wearing a jersey in support of the San Francisco 49ers on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) Feb. 3. Sailors assigned to George H.W. Bush were underway during Super Bowl XLVII and took an opportunity to show their team pride during flight operations. George H.W. Bush is conducting training and carrier qualifications in the Atlantic Ocean. Photo by MC2 Tony D. Curtis

able to make contributions to their TSP account, but will still have multiple options for the account.These options can include leaving their money in the account and letting their initial investment continue to grow, transferring the account to an IRA, or transferring the investment into another retirement plan if their next employer allows that as an option.These options are available to all service members whether they have served one tour or until retirement. “I know it will be significant in the future, whether I want to transfer it to another savings program or withdraw the investment to supplement my finances,” said Cardwell. Two tax deductions for TSP are traditional (deductions are made before taxes are with held) and Roth (deductions are made after taxes). After service members determine their monthly contribution amount, they file a contribution allocation to direct TSP how to invest the money they put into their account in the future. “We provide classes onTSP but for some people it is easier to talk to someone one-on-one,” said Davis.“We would recommend people make appointments but if someone walks in and a financial educator is available, we will help them right away.We are here to serve and help the military community. Come and utilize our services because we are here for your benefit.” For more information on TSP and the different funds available and navigating your financial decisions, contact the FFSC at Oceana at 433-2912. Information about TSP can also be accessed at www.tsp.gov or call the TSP helpline at 1-TSP-YOU-FRST.

Scholarship deadline fast approaching The Feb. 22 deadline for students to apply for this year’s Scholarships for Military Children Program is fast approaching. All eligible students are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible. The application must include an essay on the following topic:“Please discuss in detail how one of the ﬁrst ladies (since 1933) has made an impact on a social issue in the United States.” Scholarship awards will be based on funds available, but the scholarship program awards at least $1,500 at each military commissary. If there are no eligible applicants from a particular commissary, the funds designated for that commissary will be awarded as an additional scholarship at another store. Applications are available in commissaries worldwide and online at http://www.militaryscholar.org.Applications must be turned in to a commissary by close of business Feb.22.Commissaries can be found at www.commissaries. com, then click the link Locations at the top of the page. — From the Defense Commissary Agency Public Affairs

February 7, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 9

Billed as the “coolest thing you’ll ever do,” more than 3,000 people took the plunge on Feb. 2 into the frigid waters of the Atlantic Ocean to beneﬁt Special Olympics of Virginia. Plungers of all ages, dressed in the crazy costumes — some complete with body paint — tiptoed, ran and even dived into the water at the Virginia Beach oceanfront between 6th and 9th streets. Polar Plunge XXI raised a record $1,250,000 to beneﬁt 11,000 Special Olympic athletes. The Polar Plunge Winter Festival included the Cool School Challenge, 5K run, Pee Wee Plunge and parties on Feb. 1 and 2. This year marks the third year in a row that more than $1 million has been raised at the Polar Plunge.

Members of the “Cajun Chaos Krewe” came from all over Virginia and have attended the Polar Plunge for the past 17 years. The Krewe passed out Mardi Gras beads prior to the plunge.

Photos by Harry Gerwien As part of their costumes, young team members from the “Lake Holly Plungers” in Virginia Beach, created special hats from real plumber plungers, complete with rolls of toilet paper.

The reality of the cold water hits plungers as they head into Although maybe not having as much fun as the plungers, divers who manned the Atlantic. the safety perimeter were dressed much more warmly for the cold Atlantic Looking warm and toasty in their costumes temperatures. Also assisting with keeping participants safe were the Coast that include a long dress, cape and hood, teachers from Smithﬁeld High School pose Guard and Virginia Beach Police. for a photo before they hit the water.

Plungers get ready for their dip into the ocean.

Dressed in their best tropical attire, “Team Hypo Thermia” from Virginia Beach proudly A member of the “Crazy Colonials” team from Colonial Heights, Va. takes a show off their grass skirts as they head toward the water, tumble into the sand as the team races to the water.

10 JET OBSERVER • February y7, 2013 ,

TTGL hosts Hellenic Navy’s CNO New rules: helps Sailors negotiate orders Vice Adm. Kosmas Christidis (r), the Hellenic Navy chief of naval operations, is presented a plaque by Capt. Robert Lineberry, Tactical Training Group Atlantic commanding ofﬁcer, Jan. 23. TTGL and Distributed Training Center Atlantic briefed the Hellenic CNO and his staff on U.S. Navy synthetic tactical training available in the Navy continuous training Environment during the visit.

Photo by Tonya Dahl

Appreciation: acknowledging military families’ sacrifices

— Continued from page 3 on lengthy exercises. It is a part of this life we share. It is a reminder to acknowledge with deep appreciation what those left behind must handle — their sacriﬁce for our nation. And, it is a reminder to readily lend mutual support through what are not small acts of kindness; in themselves, they are a good thing, but they may also have a lifelong impact upon others of being in a service, where whether in uniform or not,we have each other’s back in the best sense of that word!

— Continued from page 5 creating additional work for career counselors who continued to work with their Sailors through the order negotiation and FR-PTS submission process. In addition, Sailors with less than 12 months of obligated service remaining were often left in place but orders were already generated to relieve the Sailor at PRD, creating a situation where two Sailors were ﬁlling one billet.This change aligns the FR-PTS with the CMS-ID window, while preventing many Sailors from missing their opportunity to negotiate for orders during their prescribed orders negotiation window, beneﬁting both the Sailor and the Navy. In other cases, Sailors who didn’t actually require a special circumstance FR-PTS application were submitted in FR-PTS, creating unnecessary competition for FR-PTS quotas. The new special circumstance FRPTS application will prevent Sailors from applying if they don’t need a FR-PTS quota, which will improve opportunities for Sailors who do require a quota. Sailors who don’t receive a special cir-

cumstance FR-PTS quota at their PRD are still required to submit a regular FR-PTS application during their next FR-PTS application window when they are 12 months from their end of active service. The second change covered in the NAVADMIN improves career counselor efficiency by eliminating monthly denial letters and generating a single final determination letter for Sailors.The denied final active letter has also been reformatted to include the Sailor’s entire FR-PTS end of active obligated service,as extended (SEAOS), application history to help authorizing officials in determining a Sailor’s eligibly for involuntary separation benefits. Unless specifically changed by NAVADMIN 021/13, all other FR-PTS program policies remain in effect. Contact the Navy Personnel Command Customer Service Center, at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC/1-(866)-827-5672 or via e-mail at cscmailbox@navy.mil with questions concerning this policy update and new FR-PTS implementation procedures.

! y a r o o H Spring is right around the corner! Take advantage of these last few cold weeks to clean out the old and donate to your nearest Goodwill. Then, head in the store to stock up on spring savings for the whole family!

757.248.9405 www.goodwillvirginia.org

February 7, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 11

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Over-30 Basketball League

Class Action Settlements About Chinese Drywall May Affect You

Lt. Tyrchra Bowman from CSCSU goes for the basket during some friendly competition at the Over-30 Lunchtime Basketball League at Dam Neck. Defending for NOPF during the Jan. 24 game is Coast Guard Chief Warrant Ofﬁcer Fernando Perez (wearing number 2). The ﬁnal score was NOPF 57, CSCSU 41.Seven teams are competing in the Captain’s Cup league, which ends the second week in March. Current standings has NSWDG ahead with a 7 - 0 record and runners up NOPF at 6 - 1. Photo by MC3 Harry Andrew D. Gordon

Sports calendar MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT The Admirals Hockey Team will take to the ice against the Hershey Bears for Military Appreciation Night, Feb. 8, 7:30 p.m. at the Norfolk Scope.The cost is $11 for individual tickets purchased at the Scope box ofﬁce with valid military ID. For groups of $15 or more, cost is $9 each and must be purchased through Admirals Group Sales Ofﬁce. For more information, contact Charlie Colon at charlie@norfolkadmirals.com or call 640-1212, ext. 23.

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