VFA-106 RECOGNIZES SAILORS OF THE QUARTER PAGE 6 VOLUME 52 NO. 14
APRIL 5, 2012
SERVING NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA
•
DAM NECK ANNEX
•
CHAMBERS FIELD
#SAAM
INSIDEJET
Navy announces
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
VFA-34 HONORS FALLEN MILITARY
PAGE 9
MAN VS. JET FOR A GOOD CAUSE
PAGE 12 The Naval Safety Center will present their Motorcycle Safety Symposium, April 10, 1 p.m. at the Oceana theater. Guest speaker will be Rear Adm. Brian Prindle. Everyone is welcome and it’s an opportunity to talk with those who are responsible for traffic safety instructions. Contact the Oceana Safety Office at 433-2211 for more information.
From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
Members of the Fire Ninjas Torch Club at NAS Oceana Child and Youth Programs pose with the $1,000 check they earned for their “InSight to Senses,” a community service project which benefits those who are visually impaired. From 250 entries worldwide, the middle schoolers earned third place in the national Linking Hearts & Hands Club contest, sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club. With the Torch Club is NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. Bob Geis and representatives of the Staples Foundation, who presented the award on April 2 at the Oceana Youth Center. Photo by MC3 Antonio Turretto Ramos
2FHDQD \RXWK HDUQ QDWLRQDO DZDUG IRU FRPPXQLW\ VHUYLFH SURMHFW BY CATHY HEIMER Jet Observer The Month of the Military Child kicked off April 2 in a big way for 10 middle school students,members of the Fire Ninjas Torch Club at NAS Oceana Child and Youth Programs (CYP). The 11-13 year-olds thought they were just going to help serve a special thank you dinner for military families; instead, they found themselves called up and presented a check for $1,000, as the third place winner in the national Linking Hearts & Hands National Service Project, through the Boys and Girls Clubs. The Torch Club’s project,“InSight to Senses” was selected from 250 entries worldwide and earned the
group the cash award from the Staples Foundation, the charitable arm of the office supply store. “We’re proud to recognize your club because of the incredible work you’ve done as part of the Insight to Senses project…Through your efforts, you’ve really made an impact on others. In the process, you’ve realized the power of your actions and demonstrated your ability to set a goal, work hard at achieving it and succeed, while helping others,” said Richard Coleman,regional vice president for Staples, before presenting the check. With Coleman, who is based in Framingham, Mass., were three Virginia Beach representatives, John Whitley, district sales manager; Joseph Barlow, — See Torch Club Page 8
WASHINGTON (NNS) — The Navy announced Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and issued guidance to focus efforts on awareness and prevention of sexual violence through the use of special events and command-level education in NAVADMIN 106/12, released March 28. The Department of Defense’s SAAM theme this year is,“Hurts One, Affects All. Prevention of Sexual Assault is Everyone’s Duty.” In addition to this overarching theme, the Navy will highlight complementary weekly themes throughout the month. “Sexual assault prevention is one key aspect of the Navy’s 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative to increase the personal readiness of each and every Sailor within our Navy,” said Vice Adm. Scott R.Van Buskirk, chief of naval personnel and director of the Navy’s SAAM 2012 initiative. “The weekly themes will underscore varying aspects of sexual assault and the Navy’s efforts to raise awareness in order to eliminate this crime.” The four weekly themes are: “Hurts One,” “Affects All,” “Prevention is Everyone’s Duty,” and “We Will Not Tolerate Sexual Assault.” “Our goal is to foster a command climate in which reporting assault is embraced and encouraged while providing support — See #SAAM Page 5
2 JET OBSERVER • April p 5,,2012
SAPR Victim Advocate Conference
BASE BRIEFS » » »» » »»»»»»» Oceana chapel reopening Following four months of extensive renovations and closure, the NAS Oceana Chapel of the Good Shepherd will reopen today, April 5 at 11 a.m. with a short dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a reception. For more information, call 433-2871.
Holy Week schedule at chapels The COnnection Line has made a change! For questions, suggestions, compliments or concerns about services provided on board NAS Oceana, now e-mail OceanaPAO@navy.mil. However, the best and fastest way to resolve a problem is through your chain of command or with the organization directly involved. Please be brief and to the point when using the COnnection Line. Capt. Bob Geis will reply through this column, since topics may be of interest to other readers.
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 – Mon-Wed, Fri - 11:30 a.m. Confession – 4 p.m. Sun. Mass - 9 a.m., 12:15 p.m.
Chapel by the Sea, Dam Neck - 492-6602 Protestant Worship Sunday 9 a.m.
Catholic Mass Holy Thursday — April 5, 7 p.m. Oceana Good Friday — April 6, 3 p.m. Oceana Easter Vigil — April 7, 7 p.m. NAS Oceana Easter Sunday — April 8 9 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Oceana
Protestant worship Good Friday Service April 6, noon Oceana Easter Sunrise — April 8, 6:20 a.m. Dam Neck (lakeside) Contemporary April 8, 9 a.m. Dam Neck Traditional — April 8, 10:40 a.m. Oceana
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
Spring Fever 5K Oceana Fitness and Sports will hold the Spring Fever 5K, April 18, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Same day registration begins at 10:30 a.m.and the run begins and ends at the Flightline Fitness Center,building 545.For more information,call 433-2049/2901.
Occupational Health Clinic
VFA-131 command master chief relieved of duty From Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs
Master Chief Petty Officer Joseph Storms was relieved of his duties as command master chief of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131 by Capt. Samuel Paparo, commander, Naval Station Norfolk Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, embarked aboard USS Dwight Jewish Services - Fri - 7:30 p.m., Naval Station Norfolk - 444-7361 D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), on March 27, due to misconduct Storms committed while assigned as the squadron’s CMC. Islamic Services - Fri - 1:30 p.m., Masjid al Da’waj 2nd Floor (Bldg. C-7) Storms received Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) for the Contact Chaplains: NAS Oceana at 433-2871 FRC Oceana at 433- offenses he committed. 9286, CVW-1 at 433-3676 CVW-7 at 433-2247, CVW-8 at 433-2420, During NJP, Storms was found to have failed to obey a CVW-3 at 433-2098, CVW-17 at 433-2481/2313 lawful order from a superior commissioned officer and to
Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia Beach, VA 23460 Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach and Chambers Field, Norfolk
Sex Signals This is a real life, funny, sort-of-improv show about a guy, a girl, dating and other things.The program will be a great opportunity for personnel to enhance their knowledge of sexual assault prevention. It will show on April 12, 1:30 -3 p.m. at the Oceana theater.All personnel are welcome, but it is limited to 300 attendees;so early registration is encouraged by calling 433-2912.
The Occupational Health Clinic has moved to the modular building next to the Oceana Branch Health Clinic until approximately May 2012. To get to the new spaces, turn right immediately after entering the modular building.The Easter events at NEX sign-in sheet will be on the podium in the small waiting The Navy Exchange at Oceana will offer a free Easter area to your right. If there is no sign-in sheet on the poscavenger hunt for the kids. Go to four different stations, dium,proceed down the adjacent hallway to the office.For making and decorating an Easter basket, face painting, more information, call 953-3772. coloring pictures and collecting candy. Photos with the Easter bunny will also be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Confession Saturday 4 p.m. Catholic Worship 5 p.m.
JET Observer
The 3rd annual Sexual Assault Prevention & Response Victim Advocate Conference will be April 12, 8 a.m. to noon at the Oceana theater. Military and community resources will be presented. For more information, contact the Fleet and Family Support Center at 433-2912.
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.
have violated a lawful general order. The NJP was held following a review of an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment in the workplace. Paparo determined that Storms could not continue to serve in the unique position of trust and confidence held by the CMC. Storms has been temporarily re-assigned to Commander, Strike Fighter Wing,Atlantic. A replacement CMC for VFA131 is scheduled to report in August. The VFA-131 CMC position is temporarily being filled by CVW-7’s Command Master Chief Kenneth Daniels.
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 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 3
Two P-3C Orions and the Navy’s newest patrol aircraft, a P-8A Poseidon, sit on display outside hangar 117 at NAS Jacksonville on March 28. The Maritime Patrol Association celebrated 50 years of P3 Naval Aviation and the beginning of a new generation with the P-8A Poseidon during the 2nd annual Heritage Symposium.
Chaplain’s
Corner
Spring has sprung BY LT. ANDREW BROD NAS Oceana Chaplain A couple of weeks ago my wife and I cleared out some old rocks from the garden,tilled up the soil a little, put down that fabric that is supposed to keep out weeds, but really doesn’t, spread mulch, and planted plants.We planted them in the flower beds, in sitting pots, hanging pots and even a pot made from an old wooden box.It’s been a fun few weeks watching the plants grow and flowers blossom and seeing fresh starts happen right before our eyes. Spring is a time of new beginnings and fresh starts. Our New Year’s resolutions have come and for some, have gone. As the air warms and I see people outdoors more, exercising (also could be that PT season is in full swing), walking the dog, playing in the parks, etc.Everyone wants this year to be better than the last. But what are you doing to truly make that happen? In the Christian faith, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. It’s a celebration recognizing a new beginning and new life given to us, a celebration of forgiveness and fresh starts, and it feels good to have a fresh start! In the Bible, the Apostle Paul writes:“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin,” – Acts 13:38-39. Make it a priority to have a fresh start this spring. Fresh starts usually start with forgiveness and result in being set free. First of all seek forgiveness from others. If you have done something against someone else, tell them you’re sorry, make amends and move forward. If someone has done something against you, forgive, even if they haven’t sought out forgiveness. Holding onto a grudge only allows the other person to remain in control of your heart and mind. If this year is going to be better than last, make a commitment to continually seek ways to start again and mend broken relationships with others. Sweep that grudge out the back door while you’re doing your spring cleaning and you will find yourself in an amazing place of spiritual and mental freedom.
Photo by MC2 Pedro A. Rodriguez
P-8A introduced at roll-out ceremony BY CLARK PIERCE Jax Air News JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) — More than 1,200 distinguished visitors filled the Patrol Squadron 30 hangar at NAS Jacksonville March 28 to celebrate the first fleet delivery of the P-8A Poseidon multi-mission aircraft. “In the same year that our maritime patrol and reconnaissance force (MPRF) is celebrating 50 years of service for the P-3 Orion, we’re also celebrating the fleet introduction of P-8 Poseidon,” said Capt. Mark Stevens,VP-30 commanding officer and master of ceremonies. In his remarks, Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mark Ferguson said, “The P-8 is the future of Navy maritime patrol. It will be a critical component of our maritime security and the fleet’s eyes and ears for generations to come. While this aircraft is impressive, the strength of our Navy does not rest with technology alone. The real capability will reside in the men and women who fly and maintain this aircraft. In the hands of our great Sailors, it stands ready to meet the needs of the nation and challenges ahead as we continue to operate forward to reassure allies, deter aggression and when needed, prevail in conflict.” Under Secretary of the Navy Robert Work provided keynote remarks.“As the Navy’s replacement platform for the P-3C, the P-8A Poseidon is transforming how the Navy’s maritime patrol and reconnaissance force will man, train, operate and deploy.The P-8A is a network-enabled aircraft for the network age,and gives Sailors the added benefits of working with manned and unmanned systems,” said Work. “The training and readiness concept for the Poseidon was designed around a high fidelity simulator solution to provide cost-wise warfighting readiness.The P-8A Integrated Training Facility includes leading-edge operational flight trainers, which will provide innovative and cutting-edge training for today’s warfighter.”
During his remarks he highlighted the partnership of the Navy and industrial base, which made this day possible. “On behalf of the Secretary of the Navy, I would like to thank the maritime patrol and reconnaissance community, veterans, industry and the city of Jacksonville.” He added, “thanks and gratitude goes to the City of Jacksonville, which has been such a great host to this base for more than 75 years, and whose citizens embody the values our Sailors fight to protect.” The next phase for Poseidon will be its integration with the unmanned BAMS platform to create a cohesive team that covers an even greater territory. “Maritime patrol is the forward indicator of the U.S. presence around the globe,” said Work.“MPRF is often the first to respond to natural disasters and provide humanitarian relief.These Sailors embody the CNO’s guidance for executing the maritime strategy by demonstrating daily that our Navy is flexible, adaptable and ready to respond globally to preserve the peace.Thank you for allowing me to be part of today’s ceremony.” At the conclusion of Work’s remarks, Boeing President and CEO of Defense, Space and Security Dennis Muilenburg handed over the “key” for P-8A Poseidon LL 428 to Commander, Patrol and Reconnaissance Group Rear Adm. Michael Hewitt. He, in turn, gave the key to Stevens who ordered,“Poseidon air crew and maintenance department, prepare LL 428 for flight operations.” Following the roll out, Work, Brown and Hewitt answered questions from the media. Work was asked if every P-3 in the Navy would be replaced by the P-8A. “The P-3 continues to fly after 50 years of service. Only two military aircraft have served longer, the U-2 spy plane and the B-52 bomber.As the P-3C fleet begins to retire aircraft, they will be replaced by a combination of the P-8A — See Poseidon Page 10
4 JET OBSERVER • April 5, 2012
TTGL holds change of command BY LT. CMDR. TIMOTHY KUNKEL Tactical Training Group Atlantic Public Affairs OfďŹ cer Tactical Training Group Atlantic (TTGL) held a change of command ceremony in their auditorium at Dam Neck Annex on 22 March. Capt. Robert Lineberry relieved Capt. John “Chuckâ€? Nygaard, who will report to Commander, 4th Fleet as chief of staff. Among the guests were Adm. John C. Harvey, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command; Rear Adm. David Thomas, commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, and Rear Adm. Dennis FitzPatrick, commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic. “[Nygaard] understands the essence of our challenge. [He] has the fantastic ability to see opportunity and change, amid chaos. And the courage to act; to move forward boldly and decisively into new and uncharted territory. When a command like TACTRAGRULANT combines with an ex-
traordinary ofďŹ cer and innovative leader like Capt. Chuck Nygaard, it is truly magic,â€? said Thomas, referring to Nygaard’s tenure as TTGL commanding ofďŹ cer. Before presenting Nygaard’s end of tour award, Harvey said, “It’s not just this organization and what this organization means and is, it is what this organization does for the sea-going forces of the United States Navy. The focus of this organization [TTGL] is not here. It is in our ships, our squadrons, our submarines that go forward. I’m also here to say that I believe in what Capt. Lineberry is going to bring to this organization and how he’ll build upon what Capt. Nygaard has done.â€? Lineberry, a naval aviator, brings a wealth of experience to TTGL, having previously served as commanding ofďŹ cer of HelicopterAnti-Submarine Squadron 6;commander, Amphibious Squadron 6, and commander, Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7. Lineberry explained TTGL’s role in preparing naval forces for deployment.“While
Photo by YN3 Treysean Bradburn
During Tactical Training Group Atlantic’s change of command, March 22, Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic, Rear. Adm. Dave Thomas addresses the audience. Seated are (l-r) Capt. Robert Lineberry, Commander, Strike Force Training Atlantic, Rear Adm. Dennis E. FitzPatrick and Capt. John “Chuckâ€? Nygaard. Lineberry relieved Nygaard as commanding ofďŹ cer of TTGL during a ceremony at their auditorium on Dam Neck Annex. nothing can replace underway training, TTGL’s simulation capability pays huge dividends for the Navy by maximizing readiness for those live events, while incurring none of the inherent risks or expenditures. And we can do this 365 days a year, with customized training events, ranging from the unit level to multi-strike group,joint service and coalition exercises, spanning the
full range of military operations.â€? “I’m proud of what we do here at TTGL and honored to serve as commanding ofďŹ cer,â€? Lineberry continued TTGL’s new executive ofďŹ cer, Capt. Sam Howard, reporting from U.S. Fleet Forces Command, is a surface warfare ofďŹ cer and former commanding ofďŹ cer of USS Bataan (LHD 5).
Newcomer relieves Hollingsworth at CPPD BY SUSAN HENSON Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs OfďŹ cer Reasons to visit BMB Top•Ten •
#8 ICE COLD BEVERAGES
•
$8 Military Pricing
•
[PG13]★ 3D 11:45 3:55 8:00
• • [R]★ 1:40 4:30 7:20 10:05
[PG13] 11:30 12:30 2:45 3:45 6:05 7:00 9:10 10:10 WRATH OF TITANS [PG13]★ 3D 2:35 7:40 2D 12:00 5:10 10:15 MIRROR MIRROR [PG]★ 1:10 3:50 6:20 9:00 21 JUMP STREET [R] 1:15 4:00 6:40 9:25 Showtimes for 4/06 thru 4/12 ( ) = FRI, SAT, SUN ONLY ★ =NO PASSES TIME = NO THURS
$ ! ! "$ %
The Center for Personal and Professional Development held a change of command ceremony March 28 at NAS Oceana. Capt. John Newcomer relieved Capt. Chuck Hollingsworth. Newcomer previously served as deputy director of the test division at Naval Air Systems Command Lakehurst, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J. Hollingsworth, joined CPPD as deputy commander in September 2008 and became commanding ofďŹ cer (CO) in July 2010. Rear Adm. Donald Quinn, commander of Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), served as guest speaker at the change of command. He said Hollingsworth’s impact will live on. “While Capt.Hollingsworth is moving onto another challenge, his impact lives on in the thousands of Sailors whose lives and development he has touched as CO of the Center for Personal and Professional Development.At the same time,
we welcome Capt. John Newcomer, an accomplished leader in his own right, with nearly 35 years of service as both an ofďŹ cer and an enlisted Sailor. As is so often the case in the Navy, one superstar leaves and another steps right in to keep us moving forward.â€? NETC Chief Operating OfďŹ cer Rear Adm. Clifford Sharpe,who introduced Quinn,said,“Chuck Hollingsworth was the right ofďŹ cer at the right time ... and was on point for the difďŹ cult issues of the day. Chuck describes it as his tour in the land of‘soft skills.’It is exactly those soft skills we need to talk about that present challenges,â€? he said.“The Navy,from its most senior civilian leadership to the seaman recruit on the strike group or the amphibious group that departed in the past few days, to every Sailor and airman and to every man and woman yet to be recruited,are all better for Chuck’s leadership at this command.â€? Hollingsworth told the CPPD staff that the day was all about them and the importance of what they do. During his remarks, he described the importance of a compass in being able to chart a course and use it to reach a desired destination. “CPPD, you are the keepers of the compass,â€?
he said.“You are providing the men and women of our Navy the tools to lead with courage, respect and trust.You are teaching Sailors to assess risk to make better decisions, both personally and professionally. You ensure the delivery of world-class training to the eet through the development of inspired, conďŹ dent instructors. And you provide the avenues to make informed decisions to pursue life-long educational and credentialing goals.â€? Newcomer said in his remarks how honored he is to serve as commanding ofďŹ cer of CPPD. “I’m very excited to be here,â€? he said,“to be part of a team that signiďŹ cantly contributes across a broad spectrum of leadership in developing our most important assets — the men and women who have volunteered to stand tall in the face of true adversity here and abroad.â€? During the ceremony, Hollingsworth was awarded a Legion of Merit medal for his performance at CPPD in the past 3.5 years. During this time, CPPD led NETC’s 15 learning centers by
— See CPPD Page 11
April 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 5
#SAAM: Special events focusing VFA-31 volunteers assist community efforts on awareness, prevention — Continued from page 1 to victims,â€? said Van Buskirk. “We are also demanding a strict zero tolerance policy for sexual assault and accountability of all offenders.â€? Commands will host mandatory education sessions to raise sexual assault awareness among Sailors. Commanding ofďŹ cers can either hold a single, two-hour stand down or break the discussions into four 30-minute weekly sessions, according to the NAVADMIN. Scripts and videos for each week’s theme will be provided to commanding ofďŹ cers to help facilitate discussion throughout their commands. These engagement products, in addition to talking points, posters and other tools, will be posted to the Navy Personnel Command’s Sexual Assault and Prevention website, http://www.sapr.navy. mil, according to the NAVADMIN. Navy installations and commands around the world will be organizing activities to
raise awareness of sexual assault throughout the month.All units are encouraged to participate and promote SAAM events in addition to the two-hour stand down in April, said Van Buskirk. “Collectively, we can make a difference in preventing sexual assault by engaging all of our people in a meaningful manner to raise awareness to change behavior,�said Van Buskirk. Sexual Assault Prevention and Response is an important element of the readiness area of the 21st Century Sailor and Marine initiative which consolidates a set of objectives and policies, new and existing, to maximize Sailor and Marine personal readiness, build resiliency and hone the most combat-effective force in the history of the Department.The Department of the Navy (DoN) is working to aggressively to prevent sexual assaults, to support sexual assault victims, and to hold offenders accountable.
Photo by Lt. j.g. Gregory Jones
Members of VFA-31 assisted with the cleanup of the homeless encampment on Birdneck Road on March 19. Volunteers from the command worked hand-in-hand with Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation on the former encampment by making multiple treks back and forth from the site removing wood, tarps, carpet, and debris that was left behind. Cleanup of the site has been an ongoing project with Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation, the 2nd Precinct Police Department and the City of Virginia Beach’s Waste Management.
2EADINESS IS CRITICAL TO YOU 7HEN YOU SELECT A UNIVERSITY TO CONTINUE YOUR EDUCATION YOU LL WANT ONE THAT IS MISSION READY WITH THE PROGRAMS AND THE PEOPLE PREPARED TO MEET YOUR NEEDS &OR MORE THAN YEARS 42/9 HAS BEEN HONORED TO SERVE OUR NATION S JOINT FORCES AND THEIR FAMILIES WITH QUALITY ACADEMIC PROGRAMS TAUGHT WITH MISSION READY mEXIBILITY 7ITH TEACHING SITES AROUND THE GLOBE AND HIGH TECH YET HIGH TOUCH ONLINE PROGRAMS THROUGH E42/9 AN EDUCATION FROM 4ROY 5NIVERSITY IS WITHIN REACH WHEREVER YOU MAY BE STATIONED
# " " " " " " " " % " "
" $ " " % " " &
)N CLASS s /NLINE s 7ITHIN REACH s TROY EDU s &IND US ON
6 JET OBSERVER • April 5, 2012
VFA-106
Quarterly Awards
Sailor of the Quarter
Junior Sailor of the Quarter
Blue Jacket of the Quarter
AE1(AW) Christopher J. Anderson
IT2(AW/SW) Allison N. Torres
ICFN Myla P. Crawford
The VFA-106 Sailor of the Quarter, 1st Quarter 2012 is Aviation Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Christopher J.Anderson. Anderson’s primary duty is leading petty officer (LPO) for the Avionics Work Center. He has been instrumental in leading 50 airmen assigned to his work center in the 100 percent compliance with the Naval Aviation Maintenance Program. As the LPO, Anderson completely revamped the training and qualification program for the Avionics Work Center. His efforts led to 71 new shop qualifications which avoided a foreseen shortage and overdue status of qualifications for long term planning. Under Anderson’s leadership, his work center was able to complete more than 2,000 maintenance actions, encompassing more than 2,200 man hours during the quarter. His collateral duties include petty officer leadership course instructor,command sponsor coordinator and command financial specialist. In his off duty time, he volunteers his time to the Fairchild Elementary School Parent/Teacher Association. — Information compiled by Lt. Harland Hendricks, VFA-106 Public Affairs Officer; Photos by MC3 Antonio Turretto Ramos, NAS Oceana Public Affairs
The VFA-106 Junior Sailor of the Quarter, 1st Quarter 2012 is Information Systems Technician 2nd Class (AW/SW) Allison N.Torres. Torres’ primary duty is ADP assistant leading petty officer. She has been instrumental in supervising four personnel in LAN administration and responsible for the security for NMCI assets, user accounts, security groups, distribution groups and the command database. She led and trained four junior personnel through a comprehensive training curriculum for eight Microsoft certification courses required by Navy Cyber Forces for NEC conversions. Her efforts were instrumental in a 100 percent completion rate of all assigned ITs in the department. She diligently tracked DOD Information Assurance Awareness Training Version 10, bringing VFA-106 to 89 percent readiness for information awareness. Her collateral duties include assistant divisional training petty officer for three work centers, totaling 90 personnel, divisional mentor representative and divisional training petty officer. In her off duty time,Torres volunteers for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and St. Jude Give Thanks Walk.
The VFA-106 Blue Jacket of the Quarter, 1st Quarter 2012 is Interior Communications Electrician Fireman Myla P. Crawford. Crawford’s primary duty is First Lieutenant supply petty officer. She is also assistant yeoman in X Division. She has been instrumental in managing 30 airmen assigned to First Lieutenant and running departmental physical training. As the supply petty officer, she ensured the inventory, ordering and replacement of all consumable items utilized in the maintenance, upkeep and cleanliness of 78 squadron spaces. As the assistant yeoman, she maintained 90 divisional records and ensured the smooth flow of correspondence between the first lieutenant and administration division. Her motivation and energy at departmental physical training encouraged 14 Sailors to return to Navy standards after returning to work from their post pregnancy leave. Her collateral duties include assistant divisional training petty officer for three work centers totaling 90 personnel. In her off duty time, she is pursuing a bachelor’s degree to compliment her associates degree in social work. She also provides guidance to area youth in education and daily life choices through a youth mentor group.
NPC website: One-stop shopping for everything Navy BY MC3 ANDREA PEREZ Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) — The Navy Personnel Command (NPC) website, hosted at www.npc.navy.mil, contains links to guidance and policy, programs, pay and benefits, Navy messages, stories and much more, officials reminded Sailors March 28. “Our objective is to provide Sailors and their families with a one-stop shop for all Navy-related information and to get answers to their questions in a centralized location,” said Lt. Jon Williams, functional website manager, NPC communications.“The NPC website provides information and guidance vital to Sailors from boot camp to retirement and beyond.” According to Williams, the NPC website is the second
most visited Navy website and more than 85 percent of the Navy’s web content can only be found here. The website contains more than 2,500 pages, 15,000 documents and registers nearly 1 million visits per month. The reference library section, which contains U.S. Navy forms and instructions and DoD directives and publications, receives the most active visits every month. In February, the NAVADMIN 2012 page was the most popular page accessed on the website and received more than 100,000 views. The Knowledge Base is another valuable feature on the NPC website and was created to supplement the NPC Customer Service Center (CSC). A Sailor can always call or email the CSC for information, but also has the ability to go to www.npc.navy.mil to research and answer his or her own questions online 24/7.
The Knowledge Base can be accessed from anywhere in the world.Sailors,retirees and their families can ask any question they want to about the Navy. The system uses keywords to generate a solution to their question. Sailors can access the Knowledge Base by visiting the NPC website and clicking on the “Ask NPC a Question” icon in the upper right corner of the page. “Our ultimate goal is to provide Sailors and their families with current and reliable web content, so they can make informed career and life decisions,” said Williams. For more information or to view the website, visit www.npc.navy.mil or call NPC customer service center at 1-866-U-ASK-NPC, (1-866-827-5672) or e-mail at CSCMailbox@navy.mil.
April 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 7
NMITC honors 119th birthday of CPOs BY LT. JASON BRUEHL Navy and Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center Public Affairs Officer The Navy and Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center (NMITC) Chiefs’ Mess hosted a ceremony on March 30 to mark the 119th birthday of the Navy chief petty officer (CPO) rank, which was officially established on April 1, 1893 with General Order 409. In his opening remarks, NMITC’s Executive Officer, Maj. Mark McDonald, referenced the incredible leadership he has witnessed from the chiefs’ mess at NMITC. As a Marine, McDonald did not have extensive experience working with Navy chiefs before arriving at NMITC, but was immediately impressed with the dedication NMITC’s chiefs’ mess showed towards the troops and their exemplary adherence to the Navy’s Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment, values which are shared by both the Navy and Marine Corps. McDonald noted many similarities between Navy chiefs and Marine gunnery sergeants and their invaluable conPhoto by IS3 Dawn Berinsky tributions towards their respective services. In particular, ISCM(SW/AW) Michael Hass (r) and ISC(SW) John Harlow cut a he referenced the CPO induction process and subsequent cake to honor the 119th birthday of the Navy chief petty officer pinning ceremony, events he described as an “incredible during a celebration at NMITC on March 30. transformation from E-6 to E-7.”
NMITC’s Senior Enlisted Leader (select), Master Chief Intelligence Specialist (SW/AW) Michael Hass, also spoke and reflected on the incredible pride he has had in putting on his khaki uniform every day since becoming a chief in 1998. “While the Navy is constantly undergoing change, the role of the chief petty officer as both leader and technical expert has remained constant,” said Hass. He said all chiefs need to cherish their leadership role and the honor that comes with that immense responsibility.Hass also read letters from Navy leadership that marked the 119th CPO birthday and highlighted what it means to be a chief and the fact that chiefs have never been more important to the Navy’s mission Following Hass’ remarks, a brief history of the Navy CPOs was provided, where the CPO roots were traced all the way back to the Continental Navy and the Revolutionary War. Some of the key milestones highlighted included the official establishment of the CPO rank, creation of the senior chief petty and master chief petty officer ranks in 1958, and establishment of master chief petty officer of the Navy in 1967. At the conclusion of the ceremony, and in keeping with tradition,the youngest and oldest NMITC chiefs cut a CPO birthday cake to mark another year of CPO heritage.
Presents
VIRGINIA INTERNATIONAL TATTOO APRIL 27–29, 2012 SCOPE ARENA, NORFOLK
“A spectacle of music and might...”
— CBS Sunday Morning
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! Ticket available at: vafest.org (complete calendar of events),
VAF BOX OFFICE
Two hours prior to
(757-282-2822 or visit us at
each show, the Scope
440 Bank St, Norfolk,
Plaza will come
M-F 10AM-5PM, no service fee),
alive with dancers,
or Ticketmaster at
musicians, and much
1-800-982-2787.
more at TATTOO HULLABALOO
Presented in cooperation with NATO and Norfolk NATO Festival
04/29 sponsored by
Additional support provided by Defense Credit Union Council
SCAN WITH A SMART PHONE
8 JET OBSERVER • April 5, 2012
Photos by MC3 Antonio Turretto Ramos
Oceana Child & Youth Programs kicked off Month of the Military Child with a free dinner for military families on April 2. During the dinner, the Fire Ninjas Torch Club was presented a check for $1,000 for earning third place in the “Linking Hearts & hands” national service project. PHOTOS LEFT: Stephanie Herdel and son Kaden, who have attended the Child & Youth Programs at Oceana for one year, enjoy browsing through the selection of books for sale at the Scholastic Book Fair. Proceeds support the Oceana Teen Program and Torch Club. CENTER: Torch Club Advisor Donna Minson is presented a “You Make a Difference” award by NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. Bob Geis for her leadership of the middle school group, which focuses on helping others. RIGHT: During the dinner, the Easter bunny made an appearance, greeting families who enjoyed the dinner.
Torch Club: award kicked off Month of Military Child events — Continued from page 1 business development associate; and Lindsey Patto, B2B sales consultant. The four toured the Oceana Youth Center, enjoyed the family dinner and participated in several team building games with club members,parents and staff following the presentation. NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. Bob Geis, who attended the award ceremony, praised CYP staff and Torch Club members. Geis presented “You Make a Difference” awards to Torch Club Advisor Donna Minson and CYP Assistant Ariel Miller. “Anytime you get an opportunity to thank kids for doing great things, it’s time well spent.These kids are a great example to all the other kids here.These kids are doing great stuff every day,” said Geis afterwards. He said that while there are a lot of negative stories in the media about kids and teens, the Torch Club members deserved to be recognized for their efforts that earned them third place out of 250 entries.“Thanks to the Staples Foundation, too, for recognizing the kids,” added Geis. The theme of the contest was “Children helping Children in Need”and preparation began last September.After the club researched several different ideas, they decided to help those with visual impairments, in part, to honor of one of their members, Hayley Maydak, who has difficulty seeing.An online search found the Virginia Association for Parents of Children with Visual Impairments (VAAPVI), which has a Hampton Roads chapter. Club members created 13 audio books which were burned to CDs and designed four bright donation boxes to gather sensory items, such as musical instruments, stress balls, dolls and stuffed animals, all“things they could touch and feel and hear,” explained Minson.
When the project was completed, Minson invited VAAPVI President Dawn Peifer, whose daughter Kimmie is completely blind, to speak the club on Dec. 8. Minson said both Kimmie and Hayley explained what it’s like to be visually impaired. The Torch Club then presented the donations to VAAPVI. The Torch Club also earned a merit award from BGCA with a prize of $500 from the Staples Foundation for a second project they completed as part of the“Military Parent 2 Kid Connection.” Parents were invited to the youth center for four hours on a Saturday last fall, where they were treated to fun family and team building activities with their children. “It was to get the kids to show the parents what we do here,show them around and get the parents to be a kid for a day,” explained Minson. This isn’t the first year the middle schoolers have completed a community service project. In 2010, they collected items for a low income community center in Norfolk, wrapped the gifts, made cards and delivered the donations, just in time for Christmas. Minson is somewhat amazed that the Fire Ninjas accomplish as much as they do.“I have them for half an hour in the morning before school and maybe an hour and a half afterwards,” she explained. Minson makes the best use of that time, explaining,“I really want to make my middle school program more about community service — giving, instead of getting. I want to teach about a lot of community service — giving to the children in our club, especially the little ones, being role models and mentors.” She added how she also stresses being mature and “doing the right thing.” Julianne Blackburn,11,is in her first year as aTorch Club
member.“I loved reading the audio books,”said Blackburn, who is a sixth grader at Princess Anne Middle School. “We did it for Hayley. This was a way to help her and show our appreciation of her,” explained Blackburn, whose parents are both active duty; Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class (AW) Jeffrey Blackburn is stationed at Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 on the Super Hornet side and Aviation Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class (AW) Patti Blackburn is deployed with VFA-11. The middle schooler can rattle off a list of reasons why she likes the Torch Club.“I like Miss Donna.We do a lot of cool stuff, all the projects we do and how much fun it is and I learn a lot more than I used to know.” The Fire Ninjas Torch Club members will vote on how to spend the $1,000 prize. While the club hasn’t made a final decision, they are looking at attending the Boys and Girls Club retreat at Camp Silver Beach on Virginia’s Eastern Shore at the end of April and maybe spending the day at Motor World in Virginia Beach with the remaining funds.
“
I really want to make my middle school program more about community service — giving, instead of getting. I want to teach about a lot of community service — giving to the children in our club, especially the little ones, being role models and mentors,
”
— Donna Minson,Torch Club advisor
April 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 9
Donated van to benefit wounded warriors, families STORY/PHOTO BY MC3(SW) ANNA ARNDT Naval Medical Center Portsmouth Public Affairs
rifice, so we’re just glad to do it. Initially,Toyota came out with a van that had a mobility access seat, and it was through the learning of its operation that we thought this might have some application in the community.” PORTSMOUTH,Va (NNS) —The Naval Medical Family members, USO staff and wounded SailCenter Portsmouth Wounded Warrior Battalionors and Marines watched as several wounded East Detachment Portsmouth and their families warriors unveiled the van. now have easily accessible transportation to use Melissa Marshall, Marine Corps liaison deputy for running errands, enjoying local attractions officer in charge, said the van will also benefit and exploring Hampton Roads as of March 28. the families of the wounded warriors, who are Checkered Flag Toyota donated a wheelchairoften visiting from other parts of the country accessible van to the USO of Hampton Roads and have no access to transportation. and Central Virginia during a ceremony held at “A lot of the time all of the focus is on the NMCP’s Friendship Therapy Garden near the warrior themselves, when the families are going Fisher House, for use at NMCP. through just as much heartache and stress,”Mar“Checkered Flag donating this van to the USO shall said.“What this will enable us to do is give will be beneficial to the wounded warriors and Checkered Flag Toyota donated the Wounded Warrior Family Mobile to the USO the families a way to get out, to get off base and their families,” said Cmdr. David Collins, director of Hampton Roads and Central Virginia to be used by wounded warriors at Naval for administration. Medical Center Portsmouth during a ceremony held at NMCP’s Friendship Therapy travel around.” The van will be driven by members of the “Portsmouth is geographically isolated, and Garden March 28. The exterior graphics on the van show saluting military silhouthis will allow them to be more mobile through- ettes and is encircled with stars increasing in size, which represent the healing USO, and will be available to wounded warriors and their families regularly. It will be kept at out the region.” progress. NMCP for quick access. The van’s mobility access seat uses wireless This is the second van Checkered Flag has with ease. technology that guides it out of the vehicle and “We’re really excited to help out,” said Tim Rayfield, provided for wounded service members — the first van is lowered to the ground and,after the passenger is seated, lifts and repositions itself in the vehicle.This enables a pas- Checkered Flag Toyota general manager. “They’re great was donated to the Navy Mobilization Processing Site at senger using crutches or a wheelchair to enter the van people,they have a need and they make a tremendous sac- Naval Station Norfolk Aug. 4.
VFA-34 honors fallen service members BY LT. J.G. CHELSEA DECKER VFA-34 Public Affairs USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN, At Sea (NNS) — The “Blue Blasters” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 34 painted the names of fallen service members on their F/A-18C Hornets, March 23, to honor them. Lt. Dustin Wood started the project, Feb. 28, after learning of the death of a high school friend and the severe wounding of a college roommate. Hoping to create a memorial that would provide a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by fellow service members,Wood solicited names of friends and family members lost in Operation Enduring Freedom from fellow Blue Blasters and Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9 personnel. “The day-to-day rigor of life on the carrier makes it easy for all of us to lose focus on our primary mission,supporting ground forces in Afghanistan,” Wood said. “By replacing pilot names with those of service members killed in action (KIA), the Blue Blasters hope to provide some perspec-
tive on this vital mission and pay respect to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.The KIA names serve as a symbol of the pride, selflessness and teamwork that is prevalent throughout our strike group.” Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Nathan Moore, also with VFA-34, said he was honored to sponsor a close family friend. “It’s easy to get bogged down about your own trivial things with living on the ship, and this is a great opportunity to drive home what we are doing out here. It prevents us from being detached by being on the ship while they are on land,” Moore said. “It means a lot to the members who get to sponsor the name of a loved one on a jet.” VFA-34 is one of nine squadrons deployed with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2 aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) as part of CSG-9. CSG-9 is comprised of Lincoln, CVW-2, guidedmissile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) and Destroyer Squadron 9, composed of guided-missile destroyers USS Momsen (DDG 92) and USS Sterett (DDG 104).
Photo by MC2 Jonathan P. Idle
Aviation electrician’s mates perform maintenance on an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the “Blue Blasters” of VFA-34 on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) on March 28. Abraham Lincoln is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.
10 JET OBSERVER • April 5, 2012
Your Future is Here Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s Degrees
CELEBR ATING 39 YEARS OF EDUCATING THOSE WHO SERVE OUR NATION
Classes Now Forming - Registration in Progress
6USPUL HUK *SHZZYVVT -PUHUJPHS (PK 7YVNYHTZ 7YPVY 3LHYUPUN (ZZLZZTLU[ (]HPSHISL (WWYV]LK MVY =( )LULÄ[Z .0 )PSS :3< PZ H 7HY[PJPWH[PUN 4LTILY VM [OL @LSSV^ 9PIIVU 7YVNYHT *3,7 HUK +::; ;LZ[PUN (]HPSHISL
SOUTH HAMPTON ROADS CENTER
(757) 464-6449 southhamptonroadscenter@saintleo.edu
APPLY NOW!
*LY[PÄLK I` :*/,=
www.saintleo.edu :HPU[ 3LV <UP]LYZP[` HKTP[Z Z[\KLU[Z VM HU` YHJL JVSVY YLSPNPVU HUK UH[PVUHS VY L[OUPJ VYPNPU :HPU[ 3LV <UP]LYZP[` VWLYH[LZ HZ H WYP]H[L UV[ MVY WYVÄ[ PUZ[P[\[PVU
Give the Gift of Life - Please Give Blood.
Photo by MC3 Daniel J. Meshel
A P-8A Poseidon conducts flyovers above the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group, Feb. 3, during exercise Bold Alligator 2012. The Poseidon and the unmanned Broad Area Maritime Surveillance (BAMS) will replace the P-3C Orion, which has been in service for 50 years.
Poseidon: First P-8A fleet delivery to NAS Jacksonville — Continued from page 3 and its new partner, the unmanned BAMS (Broad Area Maritime Surveillance),” said Work. Brown was queried about the importance of Jacksonville’s mayor being part of the ceremony. “This is a historic occasion for our great city and northeast Florida. We’ve been a military-friendly city for a long time and I believe military affairs are an important part of our community.The P-8 shows the benefits of private/public partnerships for the Navy in their development and acquisition process.We’re proud to be part of the P-3/P-8 transition and will support it in any way we can,” replied Brown Hewitt fielded the question, “How does this P-8 event help the Navy overall?” “This is a great day for our maritime patrol and reconnaissance force.We wouldn’t be here today without bold leadership from the City of Jacksonville and the creativity of our industry partners. It’s also a humbling day in that many MPRF squadrons are actively patrolling oceans and land areas around the world. So while many P-3s are on station protecting American interests, we’re proudly rolling out the formidable, new P-8 Poseidon,” said Hewitt. “It brings
new technology and innovation to bear wherever our country needs us.We’re also very proud of our young naval air crew and maintainers who are bringing this aircraft to life. We know that the platform is new and important -but it’s the men and women who fly it that makes it a naval asset to be reckoned with.” After the roll-out event, attendees were invited across the street from VP-30 to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the P-8A Integrated Training Center (ITC). Flight crew and mission specialists are assigned to the ITC where they undertake classroom instruction as well as full-motion, simulated exercises that present the highest degree of realism. NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Bob Sanders welcomed a large crowd that seemed eager to tour the $38 million training facility. “Thank you for being part of this history making day at NAS Jacksonville,” said Sanders. “We’re proud you could join us and learn about the exciting future taking shape for the P-8A Poseidon within the maritime patrol and reconnaissance community.”
April 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 11
CPPD: New CO former enlisted Sailor — Continued from page 4 being awarded the Learning CenterTraining Excellence“Tâ€? Award for 2010, demonstrating enterprise-wide success and impacting more than 500,000 Sailors that resulted in 16,000 certiďŹ cates, licenses and advanced degrees, and delivering 47 courses of instruction. CPPD also designed, delivered and implemented training for the Navywide“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tellâ€? Repeal, Bystander Intervention, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response, and the Leadership Core Continuum. Hollingsworth also led the stand up of the Navy’s Virtual Education Center (VEC) at Dam Neck Annex, which resulted in an annual savings of $6.5 million per year.A stateof-the-art call center,it offers Sailors help with establishing education plans, authenticating transcripts and posting of degrees in Sailors’ service records, Sailor and Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript (SMART) processing, and answering general inquiries. The VEC centralized tuition assistance processes through a webbased application, authenticated Sailors’ college degrees for the Navy Personnel Command, and handled an average of 32,000 education-related contacts with Sailors per month.The Navy College OfďŹ ces and VEC processed nearly 430,000 ofďŹ cial and unofďŹ cial SMART requests in ďŹ scal years 2010-11 respectively, in support of active and retired personnel. Newcomer said he looks forward to leading the CPPD team’s mission to develop the Navy’s workforce by providing education and training opportunities that build personal, professional and leadership competencies in support of mission readiness. “I am excited to face the challenge of executing strategic initiatives in such a dynamic environment and with the support of this amazing staff,â€? he said, and then added,“We will succeed.â€? Newcomer’s Navy career began with his enlistment in December 1977. Upon graduation from Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill., he began technical training in February 1978 at the Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Fuels School in Lakehurst,N.J.Subsequent assignments included USS Coral Sea (CVA 43), NAS Fallon, Nev., and USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). It was during this tour he advanced to chief petty ofďŹ cer. Newcomer’s tour as shipboard aircraft ďŹ re ďŹ ghting instructor, Fleet Training Center, San Diego, was his last enlisted tour.He then was commissioned an ensign
Looking for a
new car? 757.363.7777 www.autohmc.com FREE TUITION FOR MILITA MILITARY SPOUSES* PRACTICAL DENTAL ASSISTING OF VIRGINIA BEACH • AM/PM & Friday classes starting NOW! • Certified by SCHEV • HIGH DEMAND PROFESSION
Photo by Jodie Maule
Incoming CPPD Commanding OfďŹ cer Capt. John Newcomer (r), salutes outgoing Commanding OfďŹ cer Capt. Chuck Hollingsworth during CPPD’s change of command ceremony held March 28 at NAS Oceana.
WWW.PRACTICALDENTALASSISTING.COM • 757.239.0652
Your DANB certification is transferable to 38 states. Yo # ! #! !
%!
in October 1989 through the Limited Duty OfďŹ cer program. His ofďŹ cer assignments included Naval Sea Systems Command staff in Washington, D.C., as military liaison in uid systems engineering; Naval Air Forces PaciďŹ c Fleet as aviation fuels maintenance ofďŹ cer; Program Executive OfďŹ ce, Aircraft Carriers, Flight and Hangar Deck Systems Manager at the Washington Navy Yard; executive and then commanding ofďŹ cer of the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Jacksonville, Fla.; and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) as the “gun bossâ€? weapons department head. In addressing the CPPD staff for the last time as commanding ofďŹ cer, Hollingsworth said,“It has been my profound honor to serve with you the past three years. As I move on to a different, more narrowly focused mission, I do so with an unshakable conďŹ dence that the personal and professional development of our Navy is in good hands.â€?
#
# ! !! ( % ! # ( % ' & ! # #(
)) $$ & ! # '''
( % ! %
# # & ! % ! &
>L )\` .VSK /0./,:; 790*,: 7(0+
.<(9(5;,,+
569-632
Happy birthday, NAS Oceana Oceana was designated as a naval air station on April 1, 1952 and to mark the 60th anniversary, (l-r) NAS Oceana Executive OfďŹ cer Capt. Kit Chope, CS2(SW/AW) Samson Oyelami and NAS Oceana Commanding OfďŹ cer Capt. Bob Geis cut a birthday cake at the Oceana galley on March 30. From Oceana’s commissioning on Aug. 17, 1943 through April 1, 1952, Oceana was designated as a naval auxiliary air station (NAAS). After decorating his ďŹ rst cake at the galley, Oyelami was selected to help cut it. Photo by MC3 Antonio Turretto Ramos
6*,(5( 30;;3, *9,,2 769;:46<;/ 5(=(3 /6:70;(3
QL^LSY` IYVRLU JOHPUZ LHYYPUNZ JSHZZ YPUNZ
0M P[ÂťZ YLHS NVSK ^LÂťSS I\` P[
^OP[L NVSK JOHYTZ IYHJLSL[Z WLUKHU[Z
@V\Y -HTPS` 6^ULK 1L^LSLY e ;Y\Z[LK MVY .LULYH[PVUZ ;OPZ HK]LY[PZLTLU[ PZ ULP[OLY WHPK MVY UVY ZWVUZVYLK PU ^OVSL VY PU WHY[ I` HU` LSLTLU[ VM [OL <UP[LK :[H[LZ .V]LYUTLU[
12 JET OBSERVER • April 5, 2012
SPORTS & FITNESS » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » » Naval Weapons Station Yorktown kicks off registration for Wilderness Challenge BY MARK PIGGOTT Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Public Affairs Officer Registration for the Mid-Atlantic Region Morale,Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Department’s annual all-military Wilderness Challenge opens April 2. The Wilderness Challenge will take place, Oct. 4–6, in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains and on the New and the Gauley rivers in West Virginia.The event is hosted and co-organized by ACE Adventure Resort, West Virginia’s largest outdoor outfitter. More than 300 military personnel representing teams from around the world are expected to compete. Only the first 60 teams will secure a spot in the Wilderness Challenge, so teams are encouraged to register early. “Every year, the MWR Wilderness Challenge brings together the best athletes the armed forces has to offer and puts them to
the test,” said Michael Bond, event coordinator.“As the competition gets tougher and tougher every year, so do the competitors, as more teams battle it out for the title.” The challenge contains a series of five outdoor adventure races in a team format designed to bring camaraderie, competition and team spirit between all five branches of the armed services. Teams participating in this year’s challenge will compete in an 8K mountain run, a 12-mile mountain bike race, a 14-mile forced hike through the mountains, a 13-mile whitewater raft race on the Gauley River and a 7-mile kayak race on the New River. Last year’s winner was Team “HT-18” from Helicopter Training Squadron 18 at Naval Air Station Whiting Field, Milton, Fla. “This is one of the most grueling, hardfought competitions in the armed forces, so the winning team will be the best of the best in outdoor recreation and physical endurance,” Bond added.
In addition, the United States Adventure Racing Association (USARA) has endorsed the All-Military Wilderness Challenge as a qualifying race for the USARA National Championships. As a USARA sanctioned event, the winner of the Wilderness Challenge will be able to compete on a national level for what is considered the “Heart & Soul” of adventure racing in the United States … The USARA Adventure Race National Championship. “USARA is excited to have theWilderness Challenge as a 2012 USARA Regional Quali-
fier,” said Troy Farrar, president USARA.“We hope to see several teams from the Wilderness Challenge represent their military branch and compete in the USARA Adventure Race National Championship.” Registration is open to all branches of the military. Teams must be comprised of four active duty military, one of which must be female.Teams may also include active reservists, retirees and ROTC.The registration fee is $500 per team. Registration can be made online at www.wildernesschallenge.net or by calling (757) 887-7256.
JET PULL
kers, n a b l Loc a loc al h t i w ing work n g to i d n e l bers , m e m ses. s e n i bus loc al
H V WK D\ W D K 7 ZQ Z R W H KRP Photo by Harry Gerwien
The Best Bankers. Hometown Banking. [V^ULIHUR JVT
TowneBank is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
It was man, or in many cases, woman vs. jet when the “Valions” of VFA-15, with Brute Strength Gym, hosted a unique fundraising event on March 31 at the NAS Oceana flightline. Pictured is James Hoel, who is giving it his best effort to move the Hornet along the flightline as Kevin Dickhut holds the rope steady. It took Hoel 21.49 seconds to move the jet 75 feet. Forty-nine registrants, including 12 females, competed against each other to see how far they could pull the “Valions” F/A-18C Hornet in the 75 seconds each was allotted. Nearly $3,800 was raised to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project and with the success of the fundraiser and number of applicants, organizers hope to do the jet pull again in the future.
April 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 13
Admiral guest speaker at ANA luncheon Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Rear Adm. Ted Branch was the guest speaker for the March 21 meeting of the Hampton Roads Association of Naval Aviation (HRANA), held at the NAS Oceana galley. The next meeting is scheduled for April 18, 11:30 a.m. at the Fireside Room, Shifting Sands Club, on Dam Neck Annex. The luncheon will include a guest speaker, to be determined. Active duty are invited to attend the monthly meetings. Photo by Harry Gerwien
program for active duty service members, meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The BEAMS course is designed to prevent anger from escalating to violence. Participants learn to develop new and effective coping strategies.
FLEET & FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER WORKSHOPS
» » »» » »»» EFFECTIVE RESUME WRITING April 9,17, 9 a.m. to noon These days,only a top-notch resume will get you an interview. Learn how to market your skills, knowledge, accomplishments and experience with an impressive resume.This workshop includes tips on translating military terminology.
BEAMS April 10 - 26, 9 - 11 a.m. Do you find your anger racing from zero to 60 at work or at home? Building Effective Anger Management Skills (BEAMS) is a six-session, skill-building
SMOOTH MOVE WORKSHOP April 10, 5 - 8 p.m.
This workshop offers tips to help make your move as painless as possible. Topics include hints on shipping household goods, travel and financial planning, entitlements, family preparation, and ways to cope with relocation. Open to all active duty, retiring, and separating military personnel, and their families. This workshop
will be at the Dam Neck FFSC. Call 433-2912 to register.
FAMILY READINESS GROUP LEADERSHIP TRAINING April 10, 6 - 9 p.m.
er in various situations, especially during deployment. Contact your closest FFSC to ask for more information.
DECKPLATE RESOURCE AWARENESS TRAINING April 11-12, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This training is specifically for second class petty officers in supervisory positions. It provides information on Navy and community resources available to military personnel. Through solution-focused exercises,participants learn techniques that effectively address personnel concerns brought to their attention. Hampton Roads commands are invited to nominate participants by calling their FFSC.
SAPR REFRESHER TRAINING April 12, 8 a.m. to noon 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 area should plan to attend.
Family readiness groups play an integral part in keeping families togeth-
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.
Read the Jet Observer at www.oceanajetobserver.com
Vehicles Include Taxes, Hardplates, and Insurance. Get your base sticker NOW!
BAY AUTO WHOLESALE Call for a free round-trip ride!
CALL TOLL FREE 497-4000 or 1-800-394-3939 1-800-394-3939 We are an approved M.A.P.P. Dealer
WANT A
NEW CAREER? Join us at our OPEN HOUSE for information on a rewarding career in: Maritime Welding Technology
Diesel/Heavy Vehicle Technology
Automotive Techology
HVAC/Refrigeration Technology
Tractor-Trailer Driving
We are a participating YELLOW RIBBON and Post 9-11 GI Bill Approved Training School
OPEN HOUSE
SATURDAY, APRIL 14 10:00AM - 1:00PM
Auto, Welding & Diesel visit 5700 Southern Blvd. VB, 23462 Auto & HVAC visit 1429 & 1441 Miller Store Rd. VB, 23455 Tractor Trailer Driving visit 994 Scott St. Norfolk, 23502
757-490-1241 757 4 • 800-468-1093 www.auto.edu
Advanced Technology Institute Advanced Technology Institute has been certified by SCHEV, the SState Council of Higher Education for Virginia, to operate in Virginia.
14 JET OBSERVER • April 5, 2012
COMMUNITY CALENDAR      DISCOUNT FOR CIRCUS TICKETS Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey salutes Hampton Roads military and their families with a special offer of two tickets for $22. Service charges, handling and facility fees will apply.The offer is valid at MWR and ITT Ticketmaster outlets with valid ID. MWR and ITT Ticketmaster outlets are located at NAS Oceana, JEB Little Creek- Fort Story and Naval Station Norfolk.The circus will take place April 12 - 15 at the Norfolk Scope and April 19 - 22 at the Hampton Coliseum. Exclusions apply and only while supplies last. There is also a special opening night offer of $13 tickets for the 7:30 p.m. performances at Norfolk on April 12 and Hampton on April 19.
RESURRECTION 5K AND 1 MILE FUN WALK April 7 Freedom Fellowship is sponsoring a 5K run and 1 Mile Fun Walk at the Virginia Beach boardwalk, 24th Street and Atlantic Avenue.All proceeds will help build a new medical clinic in Haiti through the organizations, “Hope Charitable Services� and “Love a Child.� Entry fee is $30 for the 5K; $10 for the 1 mile. Registration begins 7 - 8:15 a.m. Race times are 1 mile event, 8:30 a.m.; 5K 9 a.m.; awards 10:45 a.m. Awards given to many age groups. For more information, registration and pledge forms go to www.comegetfree.org or contact Tom Hicks at tomandmel97@ yahoo.com.
SPRING BREAK CAMP April 9 -13 The Oceana stables is offering Spring Pony Pals Camp, April 9 -13. It will be offered 9 a.m. to noon or 1 -4 p.m.The cost is $215 per child and is structured to ensure maximum skill progression while building self-conďŹ dence. Call the stables at 4333255 for more information.
CHEVY LOVERS CAR SHOW April 14 Preregister for the Virginia Chevy Lovers annual Spring Dust Off Car Show at Finn McCool’s Fish House and Tavern at Landstown Commons, on the corner of Princess Anne and Dam Neck Roads. Preregistration is $15;$20 day of the show. Registration will be from 9 until noon. The show is open to all cars and trucks 25 years and older with proceeds to beneďŹ t the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.Awards will be presented at 3 p.m.Rain date is April 28. Checks should be payable to VCL and sent to Marie Cancel, 828 Trillium Pl., Vir-
ginia Beach, VA 23464. Additional information is located at www.virginiachevylovers.org.
HANGAR TALK April 14 The Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach will present a hangar talk with retired Air Force Col. Don “Buzzâ€?Wagner. A former B-25 pilot,Wagner will give an account of his 43 combat missions in the B-25 during World War II. Wagner joined the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1940 and retired from the U.S. Air Force in 1965. As a command pilot, he accumulated 5,000 ying hours in 24 different types of aircraft. During World War II,he ew B-25s with the 500th Bomb Squadron, 345th Bomb Group (Air Apaches) in the Southwest PaciďŹ c.Today,Wagner is an FAA certiďŹ ed commercial pilot and president of the 500th Bomb Squadron Association. A ight demonstration of the B-25 aircraft will follow Wagner’s presentation.The hangar talk is free with paid museum admission. For more information, visit www. militaryaviationmuseum.org or call 721-7767.
YURI’S NIGHT April 14, 7 p.m. to midnight
FRIDAY April 6
serving those who have served us 6\Y Z\WWVY[ NYV\WZ HUK LK\JH[PVUHS WYVNYHTZ HYL OLYL MVY `V\ [OL =PYNPUPH )LHJO JVTT\UP[` *HSS MVY TVYL PUMVYTH[PVU
7 p.m. - Act of Valor (R)
SATURDAY April 7
(SaOLPTLYÂťZ :\WWVY[ .YV\W
1 p.m. - Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (PG) 4 p.m. - Wanderlust (R) 7 p.m. - Gone (PG-13)
)LYLH]LTLU[ :\WWVY[ .YV\W
SUNDAY April 8
:LJVUK 4VUKH` VM ,HJO 4VU[O c 5VVU ! W T ,]LY` ;O\YZKH` c ! H T ! W T
*HYLNP]LY :\WWVY[ .YV\W
;OPYK ;\LZKH` VM ,HJO 4VU[O c ! W T ! W T
1 p.m. - This Means War (PG-13) 4 p.m. - Tyler Perry’s Good Deeds (PG-13) 7 p.m. - Act of Valor (R) * Patrons 17 years of age or younger must be accompanied by a paying adult to attend all `R’ rated movies. * Payment for admission and concessions is by cash only.
0HPRU\ &DUH ‡ $VVLVWHG /LYLQJ ‡ 1XUVLQJ &DUH 3ULQFHVV $QQH 5RDG _ 9LUJLQLD %HDFK 9$ ZZZ RXUODG\SHUSHWXDOKHOS FRP &RRUGLQDWHG 6HUYLFHV 0DQDJHPHQW ,QF 3URIHVVLRQDO 0DQDJHPHQW RI 5HWLUHPHQW &RPPXQLWLHV 6LQFH
CALL 433-2495 for more information
The world’s biggest space party is returning to Hampton Roads at the Virginia Air & Space Center.Yuri’s Night Hampton Roads 2012 will include a fusion of entertainment, including a local DJ and prizes will be given throughout the night. Wear your favorite space costume for a prize. Admission is $10 in advance; $12 the day of the event. Tickets are available online at yurihr.com or call 727-0900. All proceeds beneďŹ t the educational programs of the Virginia Air & Space Center. Virginia Air & Space Center is located in downtown Hampton.For more information, including a complete listing of upcoming programs, visit www.vasc.org.
April 5, 2012 • JET OBSERVER 15
Classifieds TO PLACE AN AD...
BY PHONE:
BY FAX: (757) 853-1634
MILITARY NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA
Call: (757) 222-3990 Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
BY MAIL:
BY EMAIL:
JET CLASSIFIEDS adswork@militarynews.com 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510
Garage Sale - Other Cities
Computers-Equipment
Jewelry & Watches
For Rent Seasonal/Vacation
Moving Sale: Queen size bed w/mattress, sofa, TV, DVD player. Text 757-291-0044
FOR SALE: COMPAQ SERIES 7550 COMPUTER INCL SPEAKERS,KEYBOARD,PC FOR $75. 757-887-9287
2 cttw Engagement Ring - Gorgeous Princess Composite & Round Diamond 14k YG, size 7. Store warranty incl. w/purchase - $1500. Call 757-270-7988
OBX Rent large 2BR waterside Sunday May 6 May 13 $750 firm Call 871-9676
Articles For Sale Antique chest of drawers, $45; Magazine rack, $8; Mirror, $6; Heavy duty clothes rack, $24.50; Computer desk, $6; Big keyhole desk, $35; Chair, $8. Call 757-877-6198. ELGIN TIMER STOP WATCH,WORLD WAR 2 70 YRS. OLD,REWORKED BY A MASTER WATCH REPAIRMAN AT A COSTOF $150 IN MINT CONDITION $575. 757-235-5123.
Furniture-Household 2 Pc blue leather sofa and love seat recliner, 600.00, call 7579517712 65" JVC Console LCD color TV 600.00, please call 7579517712 For sale Whirlpool Gold W/D $200 or best offer. 678-315-9529
Brand New
Rocks & Shells $35 per gallon bag. Call William @ 757-329-1541 Hampton
Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!
WWII Relics. Retired Vet seeks WWII helmets, medals, daggers, etc. 757-869-1739
Can deliver. 757-706-3667
FOR SALE: LOVE SEAT BRN W/3 PILLOWS $60, STEREO STAND W/GLASS DOOR $40. 757-887-9287 FOR SALE: TWIN TRUNDLE BED (2 BEDS)W/DRAWERS, 1 MATTRESS 2YRS OLD $100
NN, KilnCreek, Home Lg3BR,2b,ValtC,Alarm,WD,Fp. DrRam@715-2338
York Co, Seaford, Rent a 1-2 Br, 1 Ba apartment $800-$900/Mo? Mins to Ft Eustis. 887-3401
For Rent-Rooms Hampton, , Waterfront room 4 rent $700, Beachfront! Call Bill 757-329-1541 - Amazing!
Buy 4 wks get a 5 wk FREE th
$6.09/line – 3 lines min. 5 Weeks only $73.08. A Savings of $18.27 Classifieds deadline: Thursday, 5 pm, Call us for additional details and specials 75 7 - 2 2 2 - 3 9 8 2 ‍ ׀‏7 5 7 -222-3983 go red. anyway you want... eat red - apples, cherries, tomatoes. leave red kisses on someone’s cheek. laugh so hard your face turns red. but whatever you do, do it for your heart. take a moment everyday and put your hand on your heart. and then make your own promise to be heart healthy. www.goredforwomen.org 1-888-MY-HEART
,
2 OFC,Enl! POOL GOLF
ADVERTISERS
2009 Toy Hauler Raptor RV. Priced to sell...In excellent condition, sleeps 8 adults and 4 children. Stereo/DVD player, 2 Slide outs, Generator, tie down tracks, washer/dryer combo. 39,000K OBO 830-734-1783
Taking this Shortcut Can Shorten your Life! Stay Off! Stay Away! Stay Alive! Brought to you by
www.oli.org
Free!
Get online! Submit your classified ad and advertise for FREE Restrictions do apply see below for details
Qualifications:
Fast! Easy!
Submit online at: www.oceanajetobserver.com/free !!
Call 222-3 990 today!
Campers/RVs
For Rent-House (All) Hampton, , 2br TH 1.5B fp waterview pool $980 757-7660265 Hamton va, 3BR,2BATH,LR,DR,LR,W/PATIO,$13OO/MO INFOR 7577684812
DEADLINE: Reader & Display Thursday 5:00 p.m. (week prior)
•
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 5, 2012