REFLECTING ON THE AIRCRAFT MISHAP ONE YEAR AGO PAGE 9 VOLUME 52 NO. 13
APRIL 4, 2013
SERVING NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA
INSIDEJET
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DAM NECK ANNEX
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NALF FENTRESS
SENATORIAL VISIT
OCEANA GALLEY EARNS NEY AWARD
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VFA-34 spouse’s bone marrow donation saves stranger’s life BY ENSIGN SAM DISESA VFA-34 Public Affairs Officer
SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH
PAGE 4 There is still time to register your command team for Captain’s Cup Golf League at Oceana. Competition begins April 16 and runs through Aug. 13; open to all active duty at Oceana. Call 433-2200/2695 for more information.
Last May, Brittany Kohn and her husband, Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class (AW) Kevin Kohn, received a phone call that they never expected to hear. Kohn was told she was a possible donor for a woman in Portugal who was suffering from an extremely rare and lifePhoto by MC2 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos threatening disease. Because of the very specifU.S. Senator Tim Kaine from Virginia receives a close-up looks at the cockpit of F/A-18 Hornet from Lt. ic matches that are required, the chances of beCmdr. Michael Escobar, VFA-37 administration officer, during the senator’s tour, April 1, at NAS Oceana. ing a matching donor are astronomical.While it Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, toured NAS Oceana and Joint Base Langley in would take about another 10 weeks to confirm Hampton on Monday to discuss the importance of budget certainty for the defense community. Escobar she was a perfect match,Kohn had a feeling she was selected to do the briefing as he is a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute, in the senator’s was going to be responsible for saving another home state. person’s life. It was at Navy boot camp in 2008 when Kohn signed up through the Department of Defense Marrow Registry program with “Be the Match Registry,” to be a potential donor for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). AML is a type of cancer that starts inside a person’s bone marrow,which is the soft tissue inside bones that helps form 29, they also shared a career milestone — the two blood cells,and the cancer grows from cells that BY CATHY HEIMER chiefs were commissioned by the same officer, to- would normally turn into white blood cells. Jet Observer Because her mother’s medical condition of gether in a ceremony at CNATTU. Myelodysplastic Syndrome had the potential to It was in March 2012, when ATC(AW/SW) Chief aviation electronics technicians Brian Abe become Acute Myeloid Leukemia, being able to Reeves, who had transferred to USS George H.W. and Christopher Reeves have been shipmates and friends for several years. Besides the obvious Bush (CVN 77), was selected to be commissioned volunteer as a possible donor was very personal similarities, such as the same rating and both hav- through the Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) pro- for Kohn. ing earned their enlisted air warfare and surface gram, and ATC(AW/SW) Abe, the avionics electron“I hoped someone else would have made the warfare specialist (AW/SW) pins, they also served ics technician lead instructor at CNATTU, was se- same decision to be a potential donor for my together at the Center for Naval Aviation Techni- lected to be commissioned as an ensign through cal Training Unit (CNATTU) Oceana. But on March — See Bone marrow donation Page 11 — See Dual commissioning Page 8
Chiefs’ friendship extends to dual commissioning ceremony
2 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013
BASE BRIEFS » » »» » »»»»»»»
10:30 a.m.The program offers something for beginners to novices and includes the full swing and short game. Cost is $175 and includes three hours of instruction, full set of clubs,putter,head covers and golf bag.Offer is limited and advance registrations can be done through the pro shop at 433-2866.
Family housing forum Spring Fever 5K NAS Oceana Sports and Fitness will host the Spring Fever 5K April 17. Same day registration begins at 11:30 a.m. at the Flightline Fitness Center, building 545, and the run begins at 11:30 a.m. Registration forms are available at MWR fitness centers.The event is free. Proper PT gear must be worn at all times. For more information, call 4332049 or 433-3901.
Ladies Welcome to Golf package Aeropines Golf Club is offering a program for women interested in taking up the game of golf on April 27 - 28,9 -
NAS Oceana Navy Housing and Lincoln Military Housing will hold a town hall/forum meeting April 24, 6:30 –7:30 at the Wadsworth Shores Community Center, 1200 S.Birdneck Road,Virginia Beach,for housing residents.The Resident Energy Conservation Program will be discussed. Yardi Energy Solutions will be present to answer questions about billing. For additional information, call 445-2721.
Changes at galley Because of the impact of the fiscal climate and sequestration, as of April 1,the NAS Oceana galley is no longer providing picnic and convenience meals (box lunches). Meals to go will be available to patrons who are physically
TSA expedites airport screening for wounded warriors From a Transportation Security Administration News Release WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration now offers expedited airport screening to severely injured members of the armed forces. In addition to offering curb-to-gate service,TSA now allows wounded warriors to move through security checkpoints without having to remove shoes, light outerwear jackets or hats, officials said. “In recognition of the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform, we have revised our screening requirements to allow expedited screening for this trusted group of citizens,” said John Halinski, TSA’s deputy administrator and 25-year Marine Corps veteran. To be eligible for this service, a wounded warrior or traveling companion should email the Military Severely Injured Joint Services Operations Center, MSIJSOC@dhs.gov, or call 1-888-262-2396 with itinerary information for the traveling party.Traveling companions will receive standard screening. TSA also provides expedited screening for service members. At airport checkpoints nationwide, military person-
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
present with a valid I.D. card, as well as drive through services. For more information, call 433-2381/2390.
Iron Chef — CYP Style Oceana Child & Youth Programs will hold their annual “Iron Chef CYP Style”April 20, at the Youth Sports Complex across from the Oceana theater. Eight families will be competing for the title again this year. Other events during the day will include opening ceremonies for youth baseball,inflatables for the kids,concessions and more. Families interested in competing in the Iron Chef can enter a drawing through any of the CYP programs at Oceana or Dam Neck. For more information, call CYP at Oceana at 433-3976,Oceana Child Development Center at 433-3164, Midway Manor Youth Center 444-1007, or Dam Neck CDC at 492-8685. The drawing will take place on April 5, 4 p.m., and the eight families will be notified afterwards.
Chapel Schedule of Services
nel in uniform with proper identification, whether travelChapel of the Good Shepherd, Oceana ing on official orders or not, are not required to remove Protestant Catholic their shoes or boots unless they set off alarms. Sunday Mass – Tues-Fri, In addition, TSA offers expedited screening for service Sunday School 9 a.m. 11:30 a.m. members, including reservists and National Guard memWorship (main chapel) Sun. Mass 9 a.m., 12:15 p.m. bers, at the following airports: 10:40 a.m. -- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall; Chapel by the Sea, Dam Neck - 492-6602 -- Charlotte Douglas International; Contemporary Protestant -- Denver International; Confession Saturday 4 p.m. Worship Sunday 9 a.m. Catholic Worship 5 p.m. -- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International; -- Honolulu International; Adult and children’s Bible Study, following 9 a.m. worship -- Lambert-St. Louis International; Coffee House - Wednesday, 6 p.m. -- Ronald Reagan Washington National; -- Seattle-Tacoma International; and Naval Station Norfolk -- Washington Dulles International. Jewish Services - Fri - 7:30 p.m., Naval Station Norfolk - 444-7361 Wounded warriors also may enroll in “TSA Pre-check,” Islamic Services - Fri - 1:30 p.m., Masjid al Da’waj 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7) which allows eligible passengers to volunteer information about themselves to expedite their screening experience. Contact Chaplains: NAS Oceana at 433-2871, CVW-1 at 433-3676 Eligible passengers include U.S. citizens who opt in CVW-7 at 433-2247, CVW-8 at 433-2420, CVW-3 at 433-2098, through a participating airline or enroll in a U.S. Customs FRC Oceana at 433-9286 and Border Protection Trusted Traveler program, including Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS.
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.
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.
April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 3
CSSA Bradley Pietrzak(r), the cook on watch at the NAS Oceana galley serve a grilled cheeseburger to a Sailor April 1. The Oceana dining facility won the Navy Capt. Edward F. Ney Memorial Awards for outstanding food service in the Large General Mess category.
Chaplain’s
Corner
Apathy and termites
Photo by Harry Gerwien
BY LT. JOHN GIBSON Carrier Air Wing 1 Chaplain Recently, I was given a rather startling reminder about the insidious and destructive nature of termites: those annoying little bugs notorious for burrowing their way into wood structures and reducing them, in some cases,to rubble,as they diminish the integrity and strength of the wood. As I leaned against a wall adorned with an ornate and sturdy-looking piece of wood trim attached to it, there was a slight crackling noise, followed by the unmistakable sight of the wood decaying and crumbling before me. The sturdiness of the wood, as it turned out, was an illusion.The wood itself was rotted to the core. There is a spiritual lesson in our termite problem that we would all do well to learn. And that is simply the need to guard our hearts against the similar effects that spiritual neglect, and in some cases sin, have on our spiritual lives. The psalmist was on to something when he said, “He (meaning, the man who walks with the Lord) is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.”Taken from Psalm 1:3, the parenthesis are mine. The bottom line is that when we neglect to take care of ourselves spiritually,our souls become like that piece of wood trim; crumbling as a result of the “termite effect,” so to speak, of spiritual neglect. I know I am notorious for letting this happen and often don’t take the time to sit down with my Bible and do what I know to be helpful and beneficial to me as it relates to my spiritual well-being.And the result is always the same: more stress, fewer blessings and less capitalization on the opportunities before me to be useful to God. On the other hand, when we do make time to take advantage of the spiritual blessings that come with spiritual self-care, the result is less stress and more opportunities for us to maximize our gifts for God’s purpose in our lives. It really is a simple formula, but too often, our own weakness prevents us from applying it most effectively. My hope and prayer for you this week is simple: that you will not neglect your spiritual life,even in the midst of your busy schedules. Always make time for self-care, no matter how hectic life gets.
NAS Oceana earns top honor
Ney Award winners named BY KATHY ADAMS NAVSUP Office of Corporate Communications
Small Afloat Category
MECHANICSBURG, Pa. (NNS) — Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced the 2013 winners of the Navy Capt. Edward F. Ney Memorial Awards for outstanding food service March 25. “High quality food prepared fresh daily by culinary specialists is one of the biggest morale boosters the Navy provides,” said Commander, Naval Supply Systems Command Rear Adm. Mark Heinrich.“More scratch cooking, updated menus and increased on-the-job training for culinary specialists are defining the future of Navy food service.” These annual awards, co-sponsored by the International Food Service Executives Association (IFSEA), encourage excellence in Navy Food Service programs with the objective of improving the quality of life for Navy personnel. First place winners and runner up commands will be presented their awards on station by designated officials.
Medium Afloat Category
The 2013 Ney winners Submarine Category First place: USS Alaska (SSBN 732) Runner up: USS Maine (SSBN 741)
First place: USS Rueben James (FFG 57) Runner up: USS Robert G. Bradley (FFG 49) First place: USS Curtis Wilbur (DDG 54) Runner up: USS Stockdale (DDG 106)
Large Afloat Category First place: USS Wasp (LHD 1) Runner up: USS Boxer (LHD 4)
Aircraft Carrier Category First place: USS Harry S.Truman(CVN 75) Runner up: USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74)
Large General Mess Category First place: Naval Air Station Oceana Runner up: Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.
Small General Mess Category First Place: Naval Base Kitsap,Wash. Runner Up: Naval Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan The Navy’s more than 7,300 culinary specialists are deployed around the globe and feed on average of 92.5 million wholesome and nutritious meals per year, ensuring the Navy’s fighting forces operate at peak performance and are ready to respond to threats worldwide.
Navy Working Uniform Type update announced From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) — NAVADMIN 084/13 released April 1 provides a summary on all Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Type I related guidance and announces the authorized wear of the aiguillette and the expanded wear of the 9-inch rough side out and 8-inch flight deck steel toed safety boots with the NWU Type I. “We believe we owed our Sailors the best opportunity
to be successful with regards to the uniform wear of the NWU and felt like if we captured all the information into a single NAVADMIN, that would be the right thing to do,” said Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (AW/NAC) Mike Stevens.“Providing this clarity and education is very important to me.” Since the roll-out of the NWU Type I in December 2008, fleet input has resulted in the revised policy and rules of — See Uniform, Page 12
4 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013
DOD releases update to sexual assault prevention and response policy BY NICK SIMEONE American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON — The Department of Defense released updated policies and procedures, March 28, aimed at combating sexual assaults in the military and improving care for victims. Senior defense officials said the updated policies and procedures provide a framework that improves safety for sexual assault victims, standardizes victim-assistance services across the force, enhances prevention
efforts and provides victims added confidence to come forward to report assaults and seek treatment. “Today’s release of an updated policy directive underscores the department’s commitment to combating sexual assault on every level within the military,” said Army Maj. Gen. Gary S. Patton, director of DOD’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO). SAPRO officials said the policy changes came about through a coordinated effort among the services, the National Guard Bu-
reau, the DOD inspector general, military healthcare providers, chaplains and the entire DOD community to improve every aspect of the department’s response to sexual assault. “We have thousands of victims in the armed forces,”Air Force Col.Alan R. Metzler, SAPRO’s deputy director, said in an interview with American Forces Press Service. “We need to make sure that we prevent sexual assault from happening, and when it does, provide a response system that can care for people and hold people accountable so we can get the perpetrators out of the armed forces.” The updated policies incorporate expedited transfers for victims, establish a hotline for crisis intervention, and require additional training as well as new, uniform standards for care givers. “We have worked with the national certification body and codified into our policy that every victim advocate, every sexual assault response coordinator have a level of
training and competence and national certification so that they are providing victims the best quality care,” Metzler said. Senior Pentagon officials emphasize that the department has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual assault. In recent weeks, Patton has met with Capitol Hill lawmakers to discuss the department’s response to sexual assault, emphasizing that the Pentagon needs to do more to combat the crime, while welcoming input from outside groups. A goal of the new policies and procedures is to encourage sexual assault victims to have confidence in the system and to come forward and report crimes, which Metzler acknowledged are “vastly under reported.” “The department takes this seriously, that when a victim tells us that they have been sexually assaulted, we will believe them,” he said.“We will protect their privacy.They will be able to have help and care because we understand the nature of this crime and we want them to come forward to get help.”
FRC Oceana completes administration of SAPR-F Training BY AD3 PHURTURA BRAZIER Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs Senior enlisted Sailors from Fleet Readiness Center (FRC) Mid-Atlantic Oceana finished administering the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response – Fleet (SAPR-F) Training. Sexual Assault Prevention and Response - Leadership (SAPR-L) provided command leadership with essential tools to train E-6 and below personnel in the SAPR-F course. SAPR-F training needed to be completed by active duty personnel by March 31. “This needed to be as real as possible,” said Chief Aviation Maintenance Administrationman (AW/SW) Sonya Best, SAPR point of contact (POC) for FRC Oceana. She explained this training received input from different people, all E-7 and above, prior to its administration to others in leadership positions. “We wanted it to be straight on.At the end of the day, this is everyone’s problem,” Best said. “Normally when you get training from your peers, you tend to not take it as serious as when you’re getting it from your superiors. I think that’s one of the things that made this effective, as well,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate (AD) 2nd Class (AW) Kenya McCarty, SAPR victim advocate at FRC Oceana Victim advocates were utilized in every course held in the command, not only to provide knowledgeable input, but to project their presence as well. “We need to get our faces out there. Just to let them [our command] know who we are,” said Best. “Sailors need to have the correct channels in order to get the right information.The upper chain of command needs to know how to approach these situations carefully, yet effectively, in order to help a victim maintain their proper options when it
comes to reporting an assault.” The SAPR community has received feedback from the command about the training. McCarty explained that overall Sailors found the training very effective because it brought to light things that actually happen. “This training felt more real,more modern,”saidAD2(SW/ AW) Nancy Rivera of FRC Oceana. With April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the SAPR community of NAS Oceana has put together a full
schedule of educational events for the entire month. The SAPR community at FRC Oceana will also take into account some of the issues that still need proper focus in sexual assaults. “Everyone is touchy about same sex assaults, but it’s something that happens and we need to talk about it,” said McCarty, who along with fellow victim advocates, plans to approach this subject, throughout the month.April has been designated as Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Bringing awareness to sexual assault prevention Sexual Assault Response Coordinator Debra Sanders adds T-shirts to the Clothesline Project at NAS Oceana, April 1, as part of ongoing events throughout April to observe Sexual Assault Awareness Month. The shirts, created by victim advocates and Fleet and Family Support Center staff and displayed along Tomcat Boulevard, feature different messages to support victims of sexual assault, such as “Don’t Be Silent. No Means No,” and “You Are Not Alone,” among others. The Clothesline Project will also be set up near the front gate at Dam Neck Annex. Photo by Cathy Heimer
April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 5
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6 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013
An F/A-18E Super Hornet from the “Pukin Dogs” of VFA-143 lands aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) March 28. The squadrons of CVW-7, embarked on Dwight D. Eisenhower, began flying their first combat sorties of 2013, March 24 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
Navy launches new campaign to promote responsible drinking
Photo by MC2 Ryan D. McLearnon
Eisenhower, CVW-7 supporting OEF BY MC3 LUIS FIALLOS USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs USS DWIGHT D EISENHOWER,At Sea (NNS) — 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. “CVW-7 provides aircraft in support of two major operations, one being maritime and the other being overland in Afghanistan,” said Capt. Terry Morris, CVW-7 commander. “We provide air assets to go overland in a variety of missions, such as combat air support, which provides armed
overwatch in protection of U.S. coalition forces, as well as electronic denial and electronic warfare through the use of our EA-6B Prowlers.” Now operating in the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet area of responsibility, CVW-7 is the sole sea-based air wing assisting OEF missions, as IKE and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 8 relieved the departing USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). “There are close to 60,000 uniformed personnel still in Afghanistan and close to 100,000 U.S. coalition contractors that are here in theater,” said Morris.“We are there to respond on call as needed to support them in the event that they are threatened by hostile activities somewhere on the ground.” Rear Adm. Michael Manazir, commander, CSG-8, emphasized how important this mission is. — See CVW-7 Page 12
Reenlistment bonuses update released From Chief of Naval Personnel, Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) — Navy announced updates to the Selective Reenlistment Bonus award plan,March 26, in NAVADMIN 077/13. The Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) provides incentives to Sailors with critical skills and experience to stay Navy. SRB rewards Sailors who attain special training in skills most needed in the fleet, and helps meet critical skill reenlistment benchmarks and enhance Navy’s ability to size, shape and stabilize manning. Award levels are adjusted as reenlistment requirements for specific ratings and skill sets are met. The NAVADMIN is an update to the 76 skill/zone combinations detailed in NAVADMIN 273/12 released last September. Changes to September’s list in NAVADMIN 077/13 include reductions for eight skills, elimination of seven skills,addition of 18 skills,and increases to 42 award levels. “The Navy needs to retain Sailors with these critical skills to ensure we remain mission ready,” said Rear Adm.
Tony Kurta, director, military personnel plans and policy. “We adjust SRB levels to provide incentive to Sailors with high demand skills to reenlist, while remaining within budget constraints.” This SRB update message marks the first significant expansion in the number of eligible skills in recent years, according to Kurta. Sailors should consult NAVADMIN 077/13 to determine their SRB eligibility and award level.The increased award levels are effective immediately and decreased levels are effective 30 days from the release of the NAVADMIN. Eligible Sailors desiring SRB reenlistment are encouraged to work with their command career counselors, command master chiefs and chain of command to discuss timing of reenlistment and procedures well before their EAOS. Sailors can read the complete list of SRB award levels and policy at http://www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/career/enlistedcareeradmin/pages/srb.aspx.
MILLINGTON,Tenn. (NNS) — The Navy launched a new campaign April 1, in honor of National Alcohol Awareness Month called “Keep What You’ve Earned,” designed to encourage responsible drinking among Sailors by focusing on the accomplishments in their Navy careers. “Being an advocate for responsible drinking is not only a leadership responsibility — it is a responsibility of every Sailor in the fleet,” said Chief of Naval Personnel and Total Force Fleet Master Chief Petty Officer April Beldo.“Together we have reduced the number of alcohol related incidents and DUIs by almost half over the last five years. By drinking responsibly, you can continue to help bring these numbers down and make a difference in fleet readiness.” According to Dorice Favorite, director of the Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (NADAP) program, Sailors drink primarily because of stress related to the workplace, their families and life changes. “From boot camp to advancement exams, job training and deployments, the ‘Keep What You’ve Earned’ campaign recognizes these challenges and encourages Sailors to drink responsibly to maintain their successful careers,”said Favorite. To address alcohol use from all angles,the new campaign actively engages alcohol abuse personnel, Navy leaders, local communities and Sailors as advocates for responsible drinking. “Our Sailors are excited about this campaign’s launch because they were a part of its development,” said Cmdr. Jay Clark, commanding officer of the guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80). Sailors from Roosevelt participated in a photo shoot to be used in posters and other print materials, then in an informal review of the products to see if they resonated with the core audience of young Sailors. “We talk about responsible alcohol use constantly aboard Roosevelt,but it was nice to have the Navy include our Sailors in the development of something that affects them and their careers,” said Clark. “The safety and well-being of our Sailors is our top priority,” said Beldo. “Sailors endure many challenges during their first few years of enlistment and this should be recognized. It should not be treated as an excuse to drink.We all work together to create and maintain a responsible drinking environment, remind Sailors of their accomplishments and encourage positive decisions regarding alcohol.” During April, NADAP encourages all units to discuss the importance of drinking responsibly.To facilitate these discussions, the “Keep What You’ve Earned” campaign offers leadership talking points, posters, fact sheets and social media messages, all of which are available on the NADAP website, http://www.nadap.navy.mil.
April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 7
Navy reports results of lead testing From Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Public Affairs The Navy reported on March 28 that a recent round of water testing at nine child care facilities has found lead above EPA-recommended levels at two child development centers in Hampton Roads. The water outlets, which include two water fountains accessible to children, have been disconnected while corrective measures are taken. They were among the nearly 300 water outlets that have been tested to date. The Environmental Protection Agency’s recommended level for action 20 parts per billion. “Drinking water safety cannot be taken for granted,”said RearAdm.TimAlexander,commander,Navy Region Mid-Atlantic.“The safety of our service members, staff members and their children are our top priority.We are committed to ensuring that our drinking water meets both the Navy and EPA environmental standards, and we will provide the best possible level of care that our service members and their families deserve.” Initial testing of 58 water outlets at the child care center at Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story detected five faucets with levels above EPA recommended standards. Children did not have access to these outlets and did not use them for any purpose. Four of those faucets were in sinks not accessible to children and rarely used. These faucets
were permanently disconnected. The other location was a kitchen faucet used by workers to rinse dishes before placing them in a dishwasher.The dishwashing apparatus was replaced and a sign was posted informing the staff not to drink from this fixture. At the Naval Station Norfolk (NSN) Hampton Boulevard Child Development Center, 72 faucets were tested. Seven faucets tested above the recommended levels: five sinks used for hand washing and two drinking fountains. After replacing the faucet aerators, three of the sinks were retested and were below the EPA recommended level.The two other sinks cannot be reached by children and a sign was posted informing the staff not to drink from these fixtures. The two drinking fountains have been removed from the facility. Testing is continuing at all area youth facilities on Navy installations in Hampton Roads. Employees are being trained on precautionary procedures to be taken at facilities yet to be tested. As of the afternoon of March 29, of the 73 families with children in the JEB CDC, 66 were personally contacted, and seven families remained.At the NSN CDC,134 families were told that traces of lead above the EPA-recommended levels were detected in the water, with 38 more remained to be personally notified. The Navy will continue with the individual notifications
Photo by MCSN Scott Youngblood
Liz Nashold, environmental director for Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic, demonstrates how first-draw samples (250 ml) were collected from faucets at Hampton Roads child development centers and youth centers. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends a lead screening level of 20 parts per billion (ppb) or less. until all families are personally contacted. Navy leadership is also available to discuss any concerns a family may have. Families may also call the Navy’s Lead Information Line to discuss health care concerns they may have at 953-1598, or DSN 377-1598.
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8 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013 Photo by MC2 Timothy Walter
Photo by MC3 Carrel Regis
Photo by MC3 Carrel Regis
PHOTOS LEFT: Capt. (Sel) Alan Dean administers the oath of office for Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Reeves, (center), and Ensign Brian Abe at a commissioning ceremony at CNATTU Oceana March 29. Reeves, assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77); and Abe, assigned to CNATTU, were formerly chief aviation electronics technicians, who served a tour together at CNATTU Oceana. CENTER: Abe’s new ensign collar devices are pinned on by his wife Sandy (l) and mother Kathy. RIGHT: Reeves’ new collar device is pinned on by his daughter Kirsten.
Dual commissioning: chiefs served together, advanced together — Continued from page 1 the Limited Duty Officer (LDO) program.They discovered both dates of rank would both be April 1, 2013. Because they knew many of the same people and both had been planning a ceremony at CNATTU, “instead of having one ceremony at 10 and one at noon, we decided to collaborate,” explained Abe. In a commissioning ceremony, the focus is solely on the Sailor and his or her accomplishments that resulted in the achievement and the two didn’t realize how unique a dual commissioning was, until others pointed that out to them. “It’s amazing to do this commissioning for two mustangs at one time.These are two great shipmates, two great chiefs, technically competent professionals…It’s the first time I think we’ve ever commissioned two mustangs at one time,” noted Cmdr. Gilbert Mucke, commanding officer of CNATTU Oceana, during the ceremony. A mustang in the Navy is an officer who has been promoted from the enlisted ranks through an in-service procurement program. Their friendship goes back to their tour together at CNATTU in 2010, where Reeves, in the middle of a threeyear tour, was providing curriculum development as a lead instructor and had been inducted into the chiefs’ mess, when Abe arrived as a first class petty officer.“He was the one who inducted me when I made chief,” said Abe about Reeves. Although Reeves transferred to George H.W. Bush in December 2011, shortly before his selection for CWO, because they both loved being stationed at Oceana and enjoyed their time at CNATTU, they asked both Mucke and former CO, Capt. (Sel) Alan Dean, now stationed in NAS Patuxent River, Md., to be part of their ceremony. “We’re really doing the ceremony for our families. If we were just me and him, we would be doing this in flip flops in the skipper’s office,” joked Reeves. Abe agreed, saying the ceremony is “more for our families than us.” For Abe, that family includes his wife of seven years, Cheryl, who is expecting their first baby in October, along with his mom Kathy, and brother Kevin and wife Yuko, who flew in from Japan just for the ceremony. Reeves,who married his high school sweetheart, Sandy, has two daugh-
ters, Kirsten,11, and Layli, 3, along with eight-month-old Matthew. Both chiefs set the commissioning goals for themselves as second class petty officers. But Reeves admits when he came into the Navy in 1997, he planned to just do his first enlistment and get out.“Who comes in and thinks they are going to do this for a long time?” he joked during an interview before the ceremony. “When I was at AIMD [Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department] in Jacksonville, I never could have planned to be here today,” he admitted during the ceremony. But while stationed at AIMD (now known as the Fleet Readiness Center) at NAS Jacksonville, Fla., Reeves set a goal of joining the officer ranks.“But I knew I had to be a chief first,” he said. During his tour at CNATTU Oceana from 2008- 2011, he not only reached the CPO goal but also completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Electronic Systems Technology Management from Southern Illinois University. He started the program while at Jacksonville with “a lot of classroom work,” on both Saturdays and Sundays.After arriving at Oceana, Reeves discovered only some of the needed classes were available through Tidewater Community College, others were not offered locally or online, so weekends found him driving back and forth to Marine
Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C. to take them. The road to commissioning was not a quick and easy path for either Sailor. Reeves applied twice to become a CWO and Abe was accepted on his fifth application for LDO. In fact,Abe wasn’t going to apply that fifth time but it was Dean, his CO at CNATTU, who pushed him toward one more attempt, something he acknowledged during the ceremony.“If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be standing here on stage today,” said Abe. Both have advice for junior Sailors who want to be in the new officers’ shoes.“If it’s something you want, keep on putting your package in,”said Abe, who will be transferring to the“Blue Blasters”of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34 at Oceana, following schools in Newport, R.I. and Pensacola, Fla. “Work hard! Tell everyone you know what your goals are because they will be the ones encouraging you,” said Reeves, who will report to USS Harry S.Truman (CVN 75), after attending the same schools as Abe.“Apply for everything.The worst thing is that they can say no.” They both have loved being CPOs, and during the ceremony, both thanked the CPOs who mentored them. Although “we’re looking forward to a new challenge,” they said before the commissioning.“You can’t take the chief out of us.”
New XO at Fleet Readiness Center Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic Commanding Officer Capt. Michael W. Zarkowski (r) welcomes new Executive Officer Capt. Joseph A. Rodriguez during a “hail and bail” March 19 at Gordon Biersch, Virginia Beach. Rodriguez reports from the Office of the Naval Inspector General as assistant for fleet aviation maintenance. He has previously served at Oceana, as the support equipment, power plants and avionics officer at Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD), with Carrier Air Wing 8 as the maintenance officer, and as the final officer in charge of AIMD, which he transitioned to the Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic Photo provided and served as the production officer.
April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 9
Looking back at a ‘Good Friday Miracle’ NAS Oceana commanding officer, first responders, instructor pilot share their thoughts on April 6, 2012 aircraft mishap STORY/PHOTOS BY MC2 ANTONIO P. TURRETTO RAMOS NAS Oceana Public Affairs The smell of combusting JP-5 jet fuel and the loud hum of twin F404-GE-402 enhanced performance turbofan engines waft in the air in Virginia Beach, as machines relied upon for both sword and shield taxi down the runway at NAS Oceana. A 40,000 pound U.S. Navy F/A-18 D Hornet, assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, traveling 175 miles per hour, becomes airborne April 6, 2012. All within seconds, the student pilot demonstrates his extensive aviator training is second nature. He determines he is indeed airborne and proceeds to lift the landing gear, adjust flaps and go into full afterburner, accelerating to 287 miles per hour. Not a soul knows that in a matter of minutes, this $29 million machine will become the subject of what will become known as a “Good Friday Miracle.” Ken Snyder, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic & Emergency Services district fire chief, was returning from his lunch hour around 12 p.m. when his radio cracks, revealing a chilling initial report from emergency dispatch requiring An overhead view of the Mayfair Mews apartment complex, which was covered in firefighting foam, following April 6, 2012 aircraft mishap. An F/A-18 Hornet from VFA-106 crashed just after takeoff into the Virginia Beach apartment complex. There him to respond to a military aircraft that has crashed into was no loss of life and both air crew safely ejected from the aircraft and were treated at a local hospital. the ocean. Immediately, Snyder turns his truck around and heads to the Virginia Beach oceanfront toward the emergency, but in route dispatch reports that the aircraft has actually crashed into an apartment complex. A shot of adrenaline and hundreds of critical complex decisions Chiefs at NAS Oceana celebrated the 120th birthimmediately race through Snyder’s mind, as the red lights day of the chief petty officer by helping out across and siren of his emergency response vehicle flash and the base, including picking up trash April 1 (r). whine as he travels against traffic to the scene. The Oceana CPOs, including ETC(SW) Tracie Singh, According to Snyder, when responding to emergencies, ACCS(AW/SW) Holly Dingle and ATC(AW/SW) Erroll he often sizes up the situation to better prepare himGibbs were joined by CPOs from Naval Station self mentally for the enormous undertaking. During that Norfolk to help serve Sailors at the Oceana galley thought process, Snyder says he begins to assess the many for lunch (below). The day concluded with a sofactors of life safety, property conservation, getting there cial at the CPO Club. Hampton Roads CPOs have a safely,access to the scene,logistics,securing the scene and weeklong celebration, which includes 5K at Little managing resources,so as never to leave any installation in Creek April 2, Goat Locker Challenge April 3, four his charge vulnerable. On April 6, Snyder had to take into COMRELs on April 4, concluding the week with a account the specific hazards and challenges unique to this birthday luncheon on Friday at Waterside Marriott. emergency and combine them to determine what action he would take. “As confident as you are that everything is trained, you can’t help but think, what did I forget and what am I missing? I kept doing that and I couldn’t think of anything, and that made me even more nervous,” said Snyder. “When I arrived on scene, the Beach [Virginia Beach Fire Department] was already there and actively involved in fighting the fire… Half the complex was well involved in fire.” Snyder’s role in the response as the Navy liaison to the
Oceana CPOs celebrate birthday
Photo by SH1(SW) Carl Byles
— See Anniversary Page 14
Photo by MC2 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
10 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013
FLEET & FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER WORKSHOPS
» » »» » »»» CFS FORUM April 5, 8:30 - 10 a.m. The Command Financial Specialist (CFS) Forum is an interactive program provides continuing education for the trained CFS who wants to stay current on military personal finance and consumer issues. Also an excellent forum for networking with other command financial specialists.
FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT SYSTEM April 5, 9 a.m. to noon Gain the advantage in your job search
with the federal government by learning how to find vacancies and job listings, complete the application process, and how to understand standard qualifications and testing requirements.
EFFECTIVE RESUME WRITING April 8, 9 a.m. to noon Learn how to market your skills, knowledge, accomplishments and experience with an impressive resume.This workshop includes tips on translating military terminology.
FAMILY READINESS GROUP LEADERSHIP TRAINING April 9, 9 -11:30 a.m. or 6 - 8:30 p.m. Family Readiness Groups play an integral part in keeping families together in various situations, especially during deployment. Contact the closest FFSC for information.
SAPR REFRESHER TRAINING April 9, 9 -11:30 a.m.
This workshop is an advanced training that provides SAPR program updates. Any individual previously trained as a SAPR point of contact, data collection coordinator, or advocate in Hampton Roads should plan to attend.
STRESS MANAGEMENT April 9 -18, 2 - 4 p.m. The way we handle stress can affect our personal and professional lives.Learn more about managing stress with techniques such as goal-setting, time management and progressive relaxation. Group meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
CHILDREN AND DIVORCE April 9, 3 -7 p.m. This workshop addresses the pain and loss of a family breakup from the child’s perspective. Topics of discussion include typical reactions of children of different ages, things children need to hear, and what parents can do to help them through the pain. Suggestions for the non-custodial parent are also provided.
Fleet and Family Support Center Oceana is located in Building 531. It offers a variety of programs and workshops to assist active duty and their families. Registration is required for most programs. Call FFSC at 433-2912 for more information or registration, unless otherwise noted or register online at www.cnic.navy.mil/navylifema.
Folds of Honor accepting scholarship applications More than 1 million family members have been affected by the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and 85 percent of them do not qualify for federal scholarship assistance.Folds of Honor, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a mission to empower deserving military families with support and opportunities, is helping fill that gap by providing educational scholarships for children and spouses of military service men and women killed or disabled while serving the nation. Folds of Honor is currently accepting applications for both immediate and future-use scholarships. Scholarships can be used immediately, or can be held with the foundation on behalf of young children until their time of enrollment. For more information on eligibility and to apply,visit www.foldsofhonor.org/scholarships. The deadline for submission is April 30.
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April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 11
Bone marrow donation: former Sailor registered with DoD while at boot camp — Continued from page 1 It was a very unpleasant process involving mother if, God forbid, she ever needs a simi- about 20-30 needles extracting bone marlar operation,” said Kohn. row out of two holes drilled into her lower Little did Kohn know that four years later, back. “It was very uncomfortable; it felt like after leaving the I had broken my Navy, she would be tailbone,” she exa matching donor plained. and could potentialBecause donors ly save a family from tend to be very losing a loved one. anemic and tired At the time she after the procedure, decided to become Kohn received a a donor, her hustransfusion of her band was deployed own blood that aboard USS Abrahad been taken and ham Lincoln (CVN stored prior to the 72) with Strike operation. The next Fighter Squadron step was a three(VFA) 34. “I apweek recovery plaud her for it,” said period, which was a proud AT2 Kohn. vital to regain her “It came as no surstrength and stabiprise to me that she lize her body. decided to go ahead “It was very with this.” tough to walk when In November I got home,” said 2012, Kohn rePhoto by Ensign Sam DiSesa Kohn. “It’s been a ceived the news Brittany Kohn and her husband, AT2 (AW) Kevin few weeks and I’m that she was a per- Kohn, pose for a photo with their daughter Vera, still walking with fect match for the at VFA-34 “Blue Blasters,” where Petty Officer a bit of a limp, but patient in need. Kohn is stationed. Brittany, a former Sailor, do- with some physical Kohn then made nated bone marrow to save the life of a woman therapy,I’m very opthe commitment to who lives in Portugal — someone she has never timistic about havbeing a donor and met. ing a full recovery began the process. very soon.” After the holidays, the couple left their While Kohn has not yet communicated 11-month-old daughter Vera with Kohn’s with the recipient of her bone marrow, she mother, and travelled from Virginia Beach to is currently waiting to hear from her donor spend three nights at the Georgetown Uni- liaison for health updates on the receiving versity Hospital Lombardi Cancer Center in individual in Portugal. In the mean time, Washington,D.C. The costs of travel,lodging Kohn, a former aviation electronics techand food costs were all covered by “Be the nician at VFA-106, is looking forward to reMatch Registry.” enlisting into the Navy Reserves to continue On the morning of Feb. 4, the bone mar- her military career. row transplant process was performed by — For more information about regishaving the maximum amount of bone mar- tering with “Be the Match Registry,” visit row taken from the base of Kohn’s spine. http://marrow.org.
Summer Junior Golf Program
Aeropines Golf Club Summer Junior Golf Program at NAS Oceana begins the first Tuesday after school is out and runs until the Tuesday before school begins. The cost is $6 per child, per class, every Tuesday. Registration is no later than close of business on the Sunday prior to the session the child wants to attend. Space is limited so early registration is encouraged. Sign-ups begin May 1 and can be done by calling the Aeropines pro shop at 433-2866.
Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s Degree Programs Classes Begin April 29th Registration in Progress
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12 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013
Uniform: additional footwear authorized Women’s History Month — Continued from page 3 wear. NAVADMIN 084/13 discusses in detail the description, uniform components, standards of appearance, occasions for wear and proper care instructions. The NAVADMIN, at commanding ofďŹ cer’s discretion, expands the authorized footwear to be worn with NWU Type I to include a black 9-inch leather (smooth) steeltoed boot, a black 9-inch rough side out leather steel toed boot and a black 8-inch aviation ight deck steel-toed boot. Also at the commanding ofďŹ cer’s discretion, aiguillettes can be worn with the NWU Type I shirt and parka by personnel assigned to billets in which aiguillettes are a prescribed uniform item. Personnel should be aware that
puncturing the outer shell of the parka will compromise the manufacturer’s waterproof guarantee and void the lifetime warranty. Parkas that are punctured or torn will have to be repaired or replaced at the owner’s expense. In addition to NAVADMIN 084/13, the Navy released a training video that demonstrates how to properly wear NWU Type I components. The video can be found at http://www.navy.mil/video_player.asp?id=18243. For more information on uniforms and uniform policy, visit the Navy Uniform Matters website at http://www. public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/support/uniforms/pages/default2.aspx.
CVW-7: supporting maritime and overland ops in Afghanistan
day jobs to the overall mission. “The aircraft needed to y OEF missions must be constantly maintained in order to ensure success,â€?saidAviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Brandon Smith, assigned to the Patriots of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140.“My squadron is there to make it happen, and inspecting our aircraft before and after every mission, ensures the ground troops get the support they need.â€? CVW-7 is composed of the “Bluetailsâ€? of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, the “Patriotsâ€? of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, the “Rampagersâ€? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83, the “Jolly Rogersâ€? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 103, the “Wildcatsâ€? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131, the “Pukin’ Dogsâ€? of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, and the“Nightdippersâ€?of Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron (HS) 5. Eisenhower is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, conducting maritime security operations and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.
— Continued from page 6 “One of our roles here in the North Arabian Sea is to support our troops on the ground in OEF. Our aviators from CVW-7 that will y missions that are upward of ďŹ ve to seven hours long, are going to be supporting the troops on the ground that are trying to ensure stability in Afghanistan prior to the United States withdrawal,â€? said Manazir. “Every Sailor is involved with each one of those sorties. When we put a pilot in an airplane and we launch that airplane off, it is an entire strike group effort to do that.â€? Sailors from IKE realize the importance of their every-
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observance
Photo by MC2 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
Dr. Kristin Barbee, clinical psychologist at the NAS Oceana Primary Care Clinic, performs an interpretive dance during the Women’s History Month celebration at NAS Oceana Branch Health Clinic March 29. The program also included retired Lt. Carmen Baker as the guest speaker and ďŹ rst person accounts of experiences and struggles that women such as Amelia Earhart endured.
April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 13
The Adult Learning Center (ALC) is offering the complete GED exam,April 20 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $58. The test also will be given in two parts,April 8 and April 9, from noon to 5 p.m.The social studies, science and reading GED exams will be given April 12 and the math and writing portionsApril 29 from 8:15 a.m.to 1 p.m.on both days.Cost is $10 for each partial test. Contact the ALC at 648-6050 for more information about registration for all testing sessions.
FRAUD AND IDENTITY THEFT FORUMS April 9, 6 - 9 p.m. April 13, 8:30 -11:30 a.m. The Virginia Beach Police Department will host two free fraud and identify theft forums.Topics to be discussed include avoiding victimization through scams, identity theft, email and internet fraud, credit card and check/debit fraud, telephone scams and free credit report information. TheApril 9 forum will be at the Meyera E.Oberndorf Central Library, 4100 Virginia Beach Blvd., is designed for members of the business community.
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AUDIBLE EGG HUNT April 13, 1 -3 p.m.
FRIDAY April 5
The Audible Egg Hunt will be held at the Holiday Trav-L Park,1075 General Booth Blvd.,Virginia Beach. The event is open to all ages of the blind and visually impaired, as well as ages 12 and under for siblings.The event is scheduled for after Easter to take advantage of warmer weather. Games and prizes for participants and snacks will be provided. The egg hunt is sponsored by Region 3 Lions clubs and Journey for Sight of District 24-D. For more information, call 301-0555.
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SATURDAY April 6 1 p.m. - Escape from Planet Earth 3D (PG) 4 p.m. - Snitch (PG-13) 7 p.m. - Good Day to Die Hard (R)
SUNDAY April 7 1 p.m. - Oz the Great and Powerful 3D (PG) 4 p.m. - Beautiful Creatures (PG-13) 7 p.m. - Side Effects (R)
FREE ADMISSION FOR MILITARY Through April The Hampton History Museum is offering free admission to active and retired military and their families, as well as half-price annual memberships during the month of April. This includes entry into the Hampton History Museum galleries and the special exhibit “An American Turning Point: The Civil War in Virginia – Surviving War,” as well as all museum events and programs taking place during the month. Discount military annual membership dues offered during April are individual $10, couple $15, and family $25. Benefits last for a full year and include free admission to
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Nauticus will offer free admission to all active duty and retired military members and their family members with military identification.The day will feature activities at Nauticus, the Battleship Wisconsin and the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, including Navy boot camp activities, a scavenger hunt, sailor crafts, facepainting and more. Visitors will receive a coupon for a 10 percent discount off their purchase in the Banana Pier Gift Shop. Nauticus is located at One Waterside Drive,Norfolk. For more information, call 664-1000 or visit www.nauticus. org.
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By 1863, while the Civil War was still raging between North and South, the Hampton Roads area was under occupation.Who fled the area and who stayed behind? How were residents reacting to federal occupation? What type of work was available and how was the economy affected? Come and see how occupation changed the face of Portsmouth and the Norfolk Navy Yard during this special program at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. Enjoy living history demonstrations, hands-on activities and exhibits exploring the conflict in depth. Free admission. The museum is located at 2 High Street, Portsmouth. For more information, call 393-8591 or visit www.portsmouthnavalshipyardmuseum.com.
MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY AT NAUTICUS April 13, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
the museum, the museum’s monthly newsletter, invitations to special members only events, free admission to Port Hampton Lecture Series, free admission to the Front Porch Music Series, free admission to the “Our Story. Our Time” oral history project events, discounts on classes, special programs when there is a fee, 10 percent discount in Museum shop, and membership with the Hampton History Museum Association. For more information on the museum’s monthly happenings, call 727-1610 or visit www.hamptonhistorymuseum. org and like Hampton History Museum on Facebook.
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The April 13 forum will be at the Pungo Building Theater, at Tidewater Community College,1800 College Crescent,Virginia Beach, is geared for everyone. Everyone is invited and no registration is necessary. For more information concerning the forum, contact Master Police Officer Jim McElligott at 385-1330 or email at jmcellig@vbgov.com.
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Anniversary: Reflecting on the aircraft mishap — Continued from page 9 Virginia Beach Fire Department was to provide Navy resources to include ambulances, personnel and “crash trucks” equipped with fire-fighting foam to help subdue the flames, fed by more than 12,000 pounds of jet fuel, that devastated the structure. According to Lt. Kristopher McAbee, instructor pilot at VFA-106, an aviator only has three to four seconds to assess and react to a mechanical failure similar to the series of mechanical malfunctions that brought this F/A-18D to the ground. “We have a litany of memorized emergency procedures for tons of different things that we can spit out at any time,” said McAbee.“A few things that should run through any pilot’s head during this type of emergency is if they can save the aircraft, where am I, am I over a populated area, what’s my air speed, and do I have enough thrust to keep the plane in the air?” McAbee says that a pilot must think fast but no fast hands are allowed in the cockpit because that’s how mistakes happen. McAbee also noted that in this case the pilot had only had an approximate two or three second window to make those split second interpretations and adjustments to minimize collateral damage and “punch out” or eject. Lt. Barry Gentry, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic firefighter, emergency medical technician and member of a search and rescue team, searched for remaining pockets of fire and residents of the apartment complex who were still unaccounted for after the larger fire was extinguished,. “Seeing the jets take off during the day, the power they display, what they can do and then seeing them at night with the flames coming out the back, they’re awesome to say the least,” said Gentry. “When I got there, to see that aircraft the way it was… what stuck with me the most was the emptiness of seeing the aircraft there, what was left, the two engines, and how helpless it was.This awesome aircraft that’s so powerful, then looking at it at its weakest moment gave me this feeling of emptiness.” Snyder and Gentry both attribute training recently conducted before the crash that focused on meshing local and federal emergency responders to create one unified effort in disaster situations for the successful response. Only the month before, NAS Oceana had finished training about 400 Virginia Beach firefighters on airport familiarization, traffic patterns of aircraft, aircraft rescue and firefighter communications, aircraft familiarization and specific hazards when dealing with civilian and military aircraft. Capt. Bob Geis, commanding officer of NAS Oceana,
had been in command for only three and half weeks before the crash, but had been the executive officer for 18 months prior, and one of the executive officer’s functions is to make sure personnel are trained and prepared for eventualities. “We spent a significant amount of time training and preparing for eventualities.This was one of those things you train for and hope never happens, but it happened,” said Geis. Although not present at NAS Oceana when the mishap initially occurred, proper planning and insight led to a great emergency response, said Geis. “I had the unique perspective to witness what a fantastic job the team did without me pulling the levers, the team that we spent so much time building, a team we allowed to train above and beyond what the straight requirements were,a team we encouraged to go out in town and reach out to our civilian counter parts.There was an immense sense of pride,” said Geis. Both air crew safely ejected from the aircraft and were treated at a local hospital and all residents of the destroyed apartment complex were eventually accounted for. However, Snyder says he can’t explain why there weren’t any casualties in the incident. He found himself in Geis’ office with firefighting gear still donned, covered in soot and ash after being relieved for the evening. “When I was relieved at 8 p.m., we were still looking for five people,” reflected Snyder.“I was the only one who had been at the scene at that time… Everybody just got real quiet and Capt. Geis leaned over his desk and said ‘Well Ken? How was it?’ and I said, ‘Well sir, all I can tell you is I’ve been to the Play-Doh fun factory of death and I cannot explain why we haven’t been putting people in body bags all day.’” “I was just so frightened that there was fatalities on the ground, and then to find out later that there was none! It just amazed me that everybody in that apartment complex, at that moment in time, was out doing something. That was a real shock to me,” said Gentry. In the days and weeks to follow, headlines could be read across the country of a “Good Friday Miracle” in that there was no loss of life in the devastating accident. Snyder said that the relationship built by training side-by-side in the months prior to the accident is what really made the difference in the overall response to the incident. In the year since the mishap, the pilots have continued to fly and trained to fight, the fire departments have continued to work together and develop skills to combat air-
Jet Observer file photo by MC2 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. Bob Geis being interviewed on April 9, 2012 by the media at the Mayfair Mews apartment complex in Virginia Beach, where an F/A-18D Hornet, belonging to the “Gladiators” of VFA-106 had crashed three days earlier. In the days and weeks following the mishap, Geis spent countless hours at Mayfair Mews and dealing with the aftermath of the mishap.
Photo by MC2 Antonio P. Turretto Ramos
Before responding to emergencies, Ken L. Snyder, district fire chief at the Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire & Emergency Services, sizes up each situation to better prepare himself mentally for the enormous undertaking. His role following the mishap was that of the Navy’s liaison to the Virginia Beach Fire Department, providing Navy resources to include ambulances, personnel and “crash trucks” equipped with fire-fighting foam. craft fires, but Snyder hopes a crash like the one on April 6, 2012 will never happen again. Editor’s note — This story by MC2 Antonio Turretto Ramos was written Jan. 17, 2013, as part of his application to the Advanced Navy Visual Journalism program for 2013-2014 at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communication in New York. Turretto Ramos will leave NAS Oceana in June to attend the 10-month program.
April 4, 2013 • JET OBSERVER 15
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Call: (757) 222-3990 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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DEADLINE: Reader & Display Thursday 5:00 p.m. (week prior)
BY EMAIL:
JET CLASSIFIEDS adswork@militarynews.com 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510
Call 222-3 990 today!
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Submit online at: www.oceanajetobserver.com/free
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For active-duty, retired military, their eligible family members and active or retired civil service employees If you are retired military or retired DOD civilian, include current employer and work phone number on the application.
Restrictions: • 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.) WE DO NOT ACCEPT CALLS FOR FREE CLASSIFIED ADS Deadline Thursday, 5 p.m. for the following week’s publications
16 JET OBSERVER • April 4, 2013
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