VOL. 53 NO. 35 SEPTEMBER 4, 2014
SERVING NAVAL AIR STATION OCEANA, DAM NECK ANNEX, AND NALF FENTRESS NAS Oceana conducts a mass casualty exercise in preparation for the Oceana Air Show scheduled for Sept. 20 - 21. This training exercise allows the Navy, city and state agencies to react to a simulated mishap on the flight line during the air show.
JET
INSIDE
CPO SELECTS PREPARING FOR PINNING CEREMONY —Page 6
Photo by MCSN Kayla King
Oceana conducts pre-air show exercise BY MC3 TIMOTHY DAUGHTON NAS Oceana Public Affairs Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana conducted a mass casualty exercise Aug. 26 in preparation for the 2014 air show,taking place Sept.20 - 21. The scenario for the exercise simulated a helicopter catching fire during a refueling, creating an inadvertent spark that caused an F/A-18 Hornet next to it to also catch fire. When the F/A-18 exploded, it created debris in the field nearby with hazardous materials. The exercise tested the readiness of all components of emergency response, including Navy Region Mid-Atlantic and the City of Virginia Beach police and fire departments. “These training exercises are very important because if something were to occur, the more we train with Virginia Beach and with ourselves, the better we will be able to respond to and mitigate any future events that may occur,” said John Heistand, NAS Oceana training officer.“You take any real world example, the better the training is, the better the response
is and the better the response will mean less injuries and loss of life.” Heistand coordinates all large scale exercises conducted at NAS Oceana, Dam Neck and Fentress, and works with the cities of Virginia Beach and Chesapeake to determine what they want to accomplish from the exercise. They then write a scenario to accomplish the goals and coordinate it with everyone involved in the exercise. After the exercise, Heistand said he will get together with all of the observers and put together a “lessons learned” report with all the information gathered from the event to improve on future scenarios. “In this type of situation, the City of Virginia Beach would be providing a supporting role, anything that they [the military] would need to assist with this,” said Erin Sutton, deputy emergency management coordinator of the City of Virginia Beach. “Their resources, as many as they have, would still be taxed in an incident like this, involving hundreds of thousands of people, and would need help with our ambulances and personnel, so we are here
supporting their operations.” Sutton also said it is very important to conduct training like this annually so they are upto-date on the tools and procedures needed in an emergency. More than 100 Sailors, Marines, and civilians volunteered to take part in the exercise. Each volunteer wore a tag on their wrist with an injury and a brief description of the severity of it. Emergency responders treated each injury as if they were real. “This is a fantastic opportunity to partner with the City of Virginia Beach, with the Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire and Emergency Services personnel and all the partners we are going to rely on if something goes wrong,” said Capt. Kit Chope, commanding officer of NAS Oceana. “Today’s event is the result of months of planning and preparation.We work to make sure that we know who’s who and understand what each other’s expectations and strengths are, so when we have an event like today, we all are prepared to assume our rightful roles.”
BILL LEFF RETURNING TO OCEANA AIR SHOW —Page 8
OUT OF THE DARKNESS WALK The 9th annual Out of the Darkness Community Walk will take place Sept. 6, at Mount Trashmore, Virginia Beach. Walk with thousands across the country in recognizing National Suicide Prevention Week. The walk raises awareness of depression and suicide and remembers a loved one lost to suicide. For more information, visit http://www. sos-walk.org.
2 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 3
Operation Shower recognizes GHWB wives STORY/PHOTO BY MC1 ERNEST R. SCOTT Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Wives of deployed Sailors aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) were showered in recognition and gifts during a group baby shower, Aug. 28 at Naval Station Norfolk. The non-profit group Operation Shower partnered with the 41’s First Mates to host the event for 36 military moms-to-be. “Deployments can be tough, but this gives moms something to look forward to,” said Melanie Adams, a military spouse and mother of four, who assisted with the event. “It brightens their day and helps provide for their baby.” The shower included lunch, raffle prizes and the presentation of a“Shower in a Box” to each of the mothers — a collection of products for mothers and babies that have been donated by various companies and individuals. In addition, the event provided mothers the opportunity to connect with other military families in their situation. “Most of us continue to be friends long
after the shower,” said Adams. “We watch our kids grow up together, even when it’s just through pictures.” U.S. Navy Sailors deploy around the world, answering the call to serve while away from their families. It’s during these times that the military family shines — managing assets, caring for children, and answering a call of their own. “In the military, families serve too,” said Judi Marchand, co-founder of the 41’s First Mates. “We are excited about showing these amazing women how much we appreciate and admire everything they do at home that enables their loved ones to proudly serve abroad.” The 41’s First Mates are a group of passionate women from Kennebunkport, Maine and Texas — the two “home states” of the 41st President George H.W. Bush — who have dedicated their time and energy to raising funds and giving back to the families of USS George H.W. Bush. Operation Shower is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and honoring military families by providing joyful
Wives of deployed Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) receive a collection of gifts from Operation Shower, a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and honoring military families by providing baby showers for military momsto-be. George H.W. Bush is supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
baby showers for military moms-to-be to ease the stress of deployment, or in cases where spouses are seriously injured. Since the organization’s inception in 2007, Operation Shower has showered more than
Family and friends join TR for a day at sea BY MC3 SANDRA A. PIMENTEL USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) welcomed guests to the ship for a Family and Friends Day cruise Aug. 27. TR Sailors invited more than 2,000 of their family and friends for a day at sea to give them a taste of life aboard the mighty warship. “While there are many high definition TV shows depicting carrier life, until you’re actually hearing and seeing it first [hand] there is no way to really understand what it’s like. I guarantee it will be a memory of a lifetime,” said Capt. Daniel Grieco,TR’s commanding officer.“Enjoy and have fun.Take time to say hi to the Sailors. Many of them will be humble, but the reality is that it takes everyone on the ship to run her efficiently each day.” The day was a unique chance for Sailors to bring their loved ones aboard and show their family and friends where they work and how they live. “We are very proud of what he’s doing.He’s doing his job and serving his country,”saidTanya Demby,mother of Dam-
age Controlman Fireman Jonathan Korver.“It’s amazing.” “It was fun to have them aboard. It’s an experience I’m glad I had,” said Korver. “I’m definitely proud they came aboard. As TR gracefully cut her way through the sea, guests and Sailors took part in myriad events. In the ship’s hangar bay, the hub of activity, guests played bean-bag toss, hopped in the bounce house and listened to live music. Guests also followed self-guided tour routes designed to provide a glimpse of the ship’s inner workings. “A lot of planning went into this day. We tried to provide as many different activities as we could,” said Megan Villapudua,TR’s Morale,Welfare and Recreation representative and afloat recreational specialist. The hangar bay also doubled as a mess deck for more than 5,000 people. TR’s food service specialists put on an all-day feast that included a light breakfast, lunch and an ice cream social. “There was a lot of advance planning and a lot of coordination between many different parties to make this all run smoothly,”said Chief Warrant Officer Benny Brockington, TR’s food service officer.“We fed about 3,000 more
2,000 military moms from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and National Guard on military bases, during PGA tour tournaments and at other locations.
people than we usually do. Everyone knew their role, and everyone understood that we wanted to make the ship look good.All of this was due to the team we have.” Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 treated guests to an air power demonstration that dazzled guests watching from the flight deck.The demonstration featured air-refueling, precision formation flying and a supersonic flyby. “The energy was very infectious. Everyone was on pins and needles waiting to see the demonstration. It made me proud,” said Ellen Hilkowski, wife of Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Anthony Hilkowski. TR and her crew performed one final demonstration of seamanship and professionalism by mooring the hulking ship to the pier they departed from.Then with the brows attached, family and friends departed and the festive day drew to a close. “The reason we have days like today is because, I’m exceptionally proud of each and every one of our Sailors,” said Command Master Chief Bill Smalts, TR’s command master chief. “And if their family members and friends could come out and see what they do every day and understand what it is they do and what they sacrifice, they would be proud, too. It is their sacrifice that enables us to do what we do. It’s the ones that are out there getting dirty, not the captain not the executive officer, it’s them and that’s why we do this.”
4 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014
C HAPLAIN’S CORNER
Why can’t we be friends?
BY LT. J.G. RYAN WHITFIELD Carrier Air Wing 7 Chaplain “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Ephesians 4:31-32 The story of the Hatfields and McCoys of West Virginia and Kentucky respectively, is probably the most famous feud in American history. This feud is so famous that
Hatfields and McCoys have become synonymous with rivalries and intense family disputes.If you are unfamiliar with the story, the Hatfield and McCoy families spent over two decades engaged in a bitter war fueled by hatred and disrespect.This feud resulted in the deaths of over a dozen Hatfield and McCoy family members, and nearly led to an invasion of the state of Kentucky by the West Virginia militia. The most surprising fact of the entire story is that this deadly war was born out of a simple dispute over a pig. While the Hatfield and McCoy feud provides for us a very entertaining story,it also displays the horrific effects that can result from a simple human misunderstanding. Whether in working, persona or family relationships, tensions and misunderstandings happen.
Many of our problems with others arise from our defensive attempts to handle the pain or fear and tension that occur in our relationships. When someone hurts our feelings, we often respond defensively and thus drive those with whom we desire closeness further away. This can turn into a cycle in which both parties continue to hurt one another until it eventually turns into hatred. There are two important steps that we can take to ensure tension or misunderstandings in our friendships don’t turn into bitter feud.
If your brother sins against you, go and tell him what he did without other people hearing it. If he listens to you, you have won your brother back again.” - Matthew 18:15
in a tone of voice or with body language that is unkind. When someone says or does something to us that we don’t like,our initial emotion is always anger. Anger as an emotion is never a problem. Anger only becomes a problem when we allow it to dictate our actions.If someone’s offensive or hurtful actions make you angry, make sure that you don’t react defensively in anger against them. Whether you need to step away, take a deep breath, or maintain silence. Do not reHAVE SELF-CONTROL When someone offends us spond in anger. (Ephesians or hurts our feelings, our nat- 4:31) ural inclination is to react in retaliation. While most of us COMMUNICATE THE OFFENSE are not prone to retaliate vio- PRIVATELY. If you are still bothered by lently against others, we all feel compelled in some way what has happened, when to respond to our offenders you know that you will not
be controlled by your anger, have the courage to go directly to the person who has offended you and communicate the offense. It is important that you do not communicate this offense publicly. In many cases, co-workers, friends, or loved ones may not be aware what they may have said or done has offended or hurt us. Keeping your conversation private shows respect (Matthew 18:15). It is important to work to resolve tensions in our relationships as soon as possible. Unresolved tensions lead to bitterness, anger, wrath and eventually hatred. Respectable co-workers, friends and family members would want to know if they have hurt you in some way, and apologize for it.
Many instances of disrespect toward our friends and family members are the result of simple human mistake or ignorant neglect. When we react defensively against those who have hurt us, we create greater separation between ourselves and those with whom we desire friendship. When tensions arise in our friendships, in most cases, we are looking to build bridges rather than burning them. Don’t allow unresolved anger to fester and create bitterness and strife. Instead, have self-control and initiate reconciliation with those you love. Love, kindness, respect and forgiveness are necessary qualities for building,sustaining,and repairing friendships.
RETIREMENT Lt. Cmdr. Brad Anderson (l), Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 maintenance officer, is presented his Certificate of Retirement by presiding officer of the ceremony, Capt. George Wikoff, commander, CVW-3, during Anderson’s retirement ceremony at the CNATTU Oceana ceremonial hangar. Anderson retired after 28 years of service Aug. 8. Anderson is a native of Rocky Ford, Colo. and joined the Navy at NRD Phoenix, Ariz. in May 1986. He attended Aviation Structural Mechanic (Structures) “A” School in Milllington, Tenn. and graduated in 1986. His commands include HSL-44, NRD Denver, Colo., VF101, and Commander, Fighter Wing Atlantic (COMFITWINGLANT), where he received his commission as a Limited Duty Officer. In 2001, Anderson reported to VFA-131 as an ensign. He then returned to COMFITWINGLANT for the sundown of the F-14 Tomcat. From COMFITWINGLANT, he went to VF-11 at NAS Oceana. During his tour, the “Red Rippers” transitioned from flying the Tomcat to become VFA11 and flying F/A-18F Super Hornet. In March 2008, Anderson transferred to Fleet Readiness center Mid-Atlantic Oceana as the 500 Division officer, maintenance material control officer and quality assurance IPT. He then transferred to NAS Lemoore, Calif. and joined VFA-146. At the completion of that 16 month assignment, Anderson was selected to become CVW-3’s maintenance officer and returned to NAS Oceana. He checked into the “Battle Axe Team” in May 2012 and served as the CVW-3 maintenance officer, while deployed on USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Photo by MCSN Kayla King
For more photos of the retirement ceremony, visit www.oceanajetobserver.com.
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 5
Magazine photo contest open to all photographers
REFUELING OVER IRAQ
Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Shawn Nickel A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Hornet refuels from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft over northern Iraq Aug. 21.
Outstanding photography has always been a hallmark of Air and Space/Smithsonian magazine. For every issue, hundreds of photographs are reviewed and the best ones are selected to help tell a story, capture a moment in history, or just make readers say “Wow.” There is still time to enter the magazine’s photo contest. The contest is free to enter; rules and past finalists and winners can be found at www.airspacemag.com/ photocontest. Photographs must have been taken between Jan. 1, 2011 and Sept. 30, 2014.The contest is open until Sept. 30, at midnight, EST. Photographers must be 18 years or older. Four categories — military, civilian, people and planes, and astronomy are available. Cat-
egory winners will receive $100. The grand prize winner will receive $500.All winners will be announced in the February/March 2015 issue. There will also be a readers’ choice award. Starting in December 2014, visitors to the website will be able to vote for favorite photographs. The photograph with the most votes will receive a $100 prize. Winning photographs will appear in the magazine and on the website. Review contest rules and list of frequently asked questions, then send the best shots using the official entry form. A gallery of winners from last year is available at http://www.airspacemag.com/1st-annual/prizephotos-180949492.
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6 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014 Chief petty officer selectees march into the NAS Oceana NEX prior to the start of the breakfast and uniform fitting Aug. 28. The annual event is a partnership between the Oceana NEX, commissary and uniform suppliers.
SELECTEES TAKE ANOTHER STEP TOWARDS CHIEF STORY/PHOTOS BY MCSN KAYLA KING NAS Oceana Public Affairs Singing “Anchors Aweigh,” chief petty officer (CPO) selectees at various commands on Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana marched into the Oceana Navy Exchange (NEX) Aug. 28 for the annual breakfast and uniform fitting event with their sponsors. NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. Kit Chope and Executive Officer Capt. Louis Schager both attended the special event to support their Sailors. Although one Sailor was underway and not able to attend, Chope addressed the other 46 CPO selectees in formation, stating that it is a major career change to shift
Debbie Muheman, a representative from Cross, a uniform vendor, tailors a dress white jacket for AMC (select) (AW) Adam Tychostop, from VFA-106.
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uniforms for the men and women selected for CPO. “It’s that shift from the Navy service uniform to the Navy khaki uniform. It’s a shift from silver thread to gold thread. It means it’s a point of pride. It’s a point of recognition,” said Chope.“Folks can pick you out in a crowd as a leader. Khaki leadership is what solves problems in the Navy. It also comes with an extra mantle of responsibility on you because you are more recognizable. That means you set the standard.You set the example 24/7, 365. I’m proud to be a part of this.” The annual breakfast and uniform fitting event is sponsored by the Oceana NEX, in partnership with the commissary and uniform vendors. Together they provide a buffet breakfast, followed by an early opening of the store.To help selectees transition to their new uniforms, the NEX brings extra tailors and vender assistance,as well as additional uniform items. Oceana Command Master Chief (AW/SW/EXW) Eric
“It’s a learning experience … humbling experience. It’s a lot of long days with no sleep,” Chief (select) Culinary Specialist (SW) Renita Monroe, assigned to NAS Oceana Hornet’s Nest Galley.
Clark said that taking the selectees shopping with their sponsors takes a lot of pressure off them and helps them not overspend. Also at the breakfast was a cake cutting, with the honors going to the youngest and oldest CPO selectees. Chief (select) Aviation Ordnanceman (AW/SW) Jake Rivera, from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83, was the youngest selectee, at age 28, with nine years in the Navy.Along with Rivera was Chief (select) Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AW) Joachim Ramos, temporarily assigned to the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Oceana, who is 49, and has 17 and one-half years in the Navy. The chief selects have been through extensive training physically and mentally. “It’s a learning experience … humbling experience. It’s a lot of long days with no sleep,” said Chief (select) Culinary Specialist (SW) Renita Monroe, assigned to NAS Oceana Hornet’s Nest Galley. Monroe said she felt excited and relieved when she found out she was a chief select. With 15 years in the Navy, Monroe made chief on her third try. She said she is going to “continue to lead and to support the CPO mess, support the chain of command and junior Sailors.” The NAS Oceana CPO pinning will be held at the Aerotheater Sept. 16, at 9 a.m. For more photos of CPO Select events, visit www.oceanajetobserver.com.
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 7 Capt. Ferdinand Reid (r) relieves Capt. John Newcomer as commanding officer of the Center for Personal and Professional Development. Capt. John Jones (center), chief of staff of Naval Education and Training Command, presided over the change of command held Aug. 28 at NAS Oceana.
CPPD conducts change of command BY SUSAN HENSON Center for Personal and Professional Development Public Affairs The Center for Personal and Professional Development (CPPD) held a change of command ceremony Aug. 28 at Naval Air Station Oceana Capt. John Newcomer, CPPD commanding officer since March 2012, turned over command to Capt. Ferdinand Reid, who most recently served at the Pentagon on the staff of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in the Joint Operations Directorate (J35). Capt. John Jones, chief of staff for the commander of Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), was guest speaker at the change of command. In his speech, Jones said CPPD has been the Navy's goto command for the design, delivery and implementation of specialized, Navywide training, such as Sexual Assault Prevention and Response training for Leadership, Fleet and Stand-down, as well as for the Officer and Enlisted Leadership Core Continuums.Additionally, the CPPD Voluntary Education team’s counseling work resulted in Sail-
Photo by MCC Jayme Pastoric
ors earning more than 17,000 certificates, licenses and advanced degrees in the past few years alone. For these and many other reasons, Jones said it was no surprise CPPD received five of seven training excellence functional awards given by NETC in 2013. The work of CPPD positively impacted more than 600,000 Sailors through their participation in voluntary education or attending one of CPPD’s 49 courses of instruction during Newcomer’s tenure.
“CPPD has touched the life of every single Sailor today — including me — changing their lives for the good.The CPPD team is going to produce a product that is received by [the Chief of Naval Personnel] and [Chief of Naval Operations] with open arms because that’s what they do,” he said. Speaking directly to Newcomer, Jones said, “J.P., you’ve been the one leading that success.”
— See CPPD page 8
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8 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014
BILL LEFF WITH T-6 TEXAN RETURNING TO AIR SHOW Bill Leff, a crowd favorite, will be returning to perform in the 2014 NAS Oceana Air Show, taking place Sept. 20 - 21. Leff has flown a wide variety of aircraft since earning his pilot’s license at age 15 in his hometown of Dayton, Ohio. As the hometown of the Wright Brothers, it is considered the birthplace of aviation. He has served as a helicopter crew chief in the National Guard, worked as both a corporate and instructor pilot, among other jobs in the aviation industry. He went on to obtain his instrument, multi-engine, single-engine sea and airline transport rating to go with his single-engine land, glider and flight instructor ratings. Since then, he has obtained Beechcraft 300, Cessna Citation, Learjet, Westwind, Saberliner, DC-3 and DC-9 type ratings. He is also an airframe and powerplant mechanic with FAA inspection authorization certification. Leff’s aviation career includes more than 30 years of corporate flying, several years as president of an internationallyknown corporate aircraft maintenance company and flight instructor for Trans World Airlines. He also now does test flying for defense-related research projects, as well as initial and recurrent training in Aero Commander aircraft. Leff has flown more than 170 different
This is the greatest air show in the country! You’ve got jets, you’ve got Navy jets. It’s just cool.” -Bill Leff Air show pilot of the T-6 Texan
types of aircraft, from warbirds to airline transport aircraft,and has well over 20,000 hours of flying time, including more than 4,000 hours in the T-6. Leff has been in the air show business since 1976. Leff purchased and authentically restored his T-6 Texan in 1975. His Texan was manufactured in 1943 as an AT-6C and saw service with the Army Air Forces at Victoria Army Airfield at Victoria,Texas. In 1951, the plane was “re-manufactured” as a T-6G and first assigned to Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas and then Malden AFB in Missouri. It was used as a trainer until 1955, when it was retired from service to make way for a new era of flight training that prepared pilots to fly jet aircraft. In 1959,
Photo provided Bill Leff flies a T-6 Texan that he purchased and authentically restored in 1975. It’s been improved to accommodate its new job as an air show plane.
the plane was sold as surplus for $771.11. ThisT-6 was restored to its original Korean Conflict military configuration with the help of the Air Force Orientation Group at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Leff’s hometown of Dayton. Leff has made improvements to the aircraft to accommodate its new job as an air show plane.These improvements include an inverted oil system, modern radio and navigational systems for long cross-country flights and a smoke system. A regular performer at Oceana for many years, during an interview several years ago at the air show, Leff immediately listed
CPPD: Newcomer turns over command to Reid — Continued from page 7 During the ceremony, Newcomer was awarded the Legion of Merit for his performance at CPPD in the past 2.5 years.The award cited his leadership, management acumen and personal initiative that resulted in substantially increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of the command. During his change of command speech,Newcomer said his success was really the success of the entire command. “I can’t imagine amassing a better organization with a better team than ours at CPPD,” he said. “Whether uniformed, civilian or contractor; active or reserve; assigned to VOLED or training; working at a learning site, Navy College Office, or headquarters; every single member of the CPPD team contributes to our overall mission success.”
In his speech, Reid called CPPD the hallmark learning center of NETC and is well-suited to the task of ensuring Sailors are prepared to lead with courage, respect and trust. “I take command fully confident in each and every one of you to continue equipping Sailors to think critically, act responsibly and lead proactively to meet ever changing global challenges,” he said.“CPPD is, as so eloquently stated,‘where mind meets mission!’” The ceremony concluded with the retirement of Newcomer after more than 36 years of Navy service, which included the first 12 years in the enlisted ranks as an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels). In his retirement remarks, Newcomer paid tribute to the leaders who saw his potential and mentored him to develop it. He then encouraged others to do the same for the next generation of Navy leaders.
several reasons he returns to perform here year after year.“This is the greatest air show in the country! You’ve got jets, you’ve got Navy jets. It’s just cool,”he laughed. “On top of that, the air show is just so well organized; the facility is so nice and so well managed.The enlisted people and officers here take such good care of you. Everybody knows what they’re supposed to do and where they’re supposed to do it,” he added. For the most current list of performers and the most up-to-date information on the NAS Oceana Air Show, visit www. oceanaairshow.com.
“So shipmates, look around you every day and see who it is you want to fill your shoes when you leave,” he said. “Care about them. Teach them. Mentor them. Invest in them. Make sure they’re ready to take the watch when it’s your time to leave.” CPPD provides a wide range of personal and professional development courses and materials, including General Military Training, Navy instructor training, alcohol and drug awareness program training, suicide prevention, bearings classes, and Personal Responsibility and Values Education and Training (PREVENT) classes. CPPD’s leadership training is delivered multiple times throughout a Sailor’s career via command-delivered enlisted leadership training material and officer leadership courses in a schoolhouse setting. It also coordinates production of the annual Naval Leader Planning Guide, and administers the Navy’s Voluntary Education program. For more information about the CPPD, visit https:// www.netc.navy.mil/centers/cppd/.
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 9
We’re in this together: One suicide is one too many BY MC3 JOHANS CHAVARRO Navy Public Affairs Support Element West, Detachment Hawaii PEARL HARBOR (NNS) — Beginning this month, the Navy is promoting the message “Every Sailor, Every Day,” to encourage all Sailors, leaders, families and members of the Navy community to strengthen their connections with those around them in accordance with Suicide Prevention Month. Suicide is currently one of the top causes of death in the Navy, claiming the lives of approximately 44 Sailors in 2013 alone and, according to Navy Personnel Command, 39 lives so far in 2014. While these statistics suggest a decrease in frequency of total suicide fatalities from previous years, the numbers show that some Sailors are still finding themselves with nowhere to go and no other option. In an organization that requires the cooperation and unity of every Sailor to accomplish its mission, one suicide is one too many. So, how do we keep moving forward? According to Lt. David Broderick, a psychologist at Makalapa Mental Health Clinic Pearl Harbor, in addition to the web of resources that target raising awareness, reduction and response to suicide, it is also increasingly important to “get ahead of the problem” and address the social challenges and stigmas that may lay at the crux of the issue. “Efforts need to continue to be made towards de-stigmatizing and being more empathic about suicide, so that the person asking for help doesn’t feel overwhelmed with asking for it,”said Broderick.“If people are hesitant to go and talk to their chain of command about feeling depressed or hopeless, because they worry their career might get affected, or because maybe they’re not yet at that point of really wanting to hurt themselves, then things can certainly end up escalating the longer they wait.” Lt. James Ragain, a chaplain attached to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, echoed Broderick’s sentiments, saying there are a lot of social challenges and stigmas that come with suicide. “For the person that may be having thoughts about suicide, there’s certainly the stigma of,‘Am I going to be seen as dif-
For more information about suicide prevention • www.chaplain.navy.mil — Navy chaplains have 100 percent confidentiality and cannot break this without the person’s consent. Chaplains can also locate other resources. Contact a chaplain at NAS Oceana at 433-2871; Dam Neck at 492-6602. • www.militaryonesource.mil — Referrals are made to local community providers. Services are not connected to service record. • www.suicide.navy.mil • www.suicideoutreach.org • Military Crisis Line at 800-273-TALK (option 1) or www.veteranscrisisline. net/activeduty.aspx for confidential support 24/7. ferent?’ Or, ‘Are people going to treat me as weak?,’ said Ragain. “And on the other end there’s the taboo of asking difficult questions about people’s lives and asking the question we’re trained to ask,‘Are you thinking about suicide?’We may think that by asking this question this person may reject us and cost us a friendship.” As Ragain described, the programs that are available work effectively to equip individuals with the know-how and insight to identify external indications and red flags,as well as providing help to those who need it, but,“oftentimes the tools can be like giving cough syrup to someone who needs an antibody.We need to get below the surface.” “If they can’t open up to anyone, or if they don’t feel safe opening up to anyone, and no one is there to ask that clear and direct question, ‘Are you thinking about suicide?,’ then the situation can certainly snowball out of their control,” said Ragain. Lt. Cmdr. Kaarin Coe, a social worker and the suicide prevention coordinator at Military and Family Support Center Pearl Harbor, said that while the task of asking a shipmate or co-worker if they are having thoughts of suicide or are in need professional help may seem daunting, it is important to keep
Photo illustration by MC1 Daniel Barker
in mind the Navy’s core values to intervene when something is out of place in the work place, as well as with those around us. “The Navy’s greatest asset is their people,” said Coe.“Nothing moves, flies or sails without someone at the helm — whatever form that may take. When we take care of each other, we ensure our Navy stays not only ‘Fit to Fight,’ but focused on the mission. When we get people’s support sooner rather than later, they are able to either maintain their ability to be mission focused, or return to duty faster than if they wait until there is a crisis. I believe this is the cornerstone of our core values.” Ragain said to continue moving forward it is crucial that Sailors and individuals find the honor, courage and commitment to initiate early avenues of communication with those that may be showing signs of suicide. “When someone starts that internal dialogue about suicide and they have someone they can talk with about what’s going on in their life, it lets them get everything out onto the table, and for a lot of people it’s like a huge weight’s been taken off their shoulders,” said Ragain.“For others, as they listen to themselves talk about suicide and about their issues, it’s almost like they convince themselves not to do it because they now have that connection with someone and they know they’re no longer alone.” Because of this, it is imperative that Sailors and individuals remain perceptive to changes in behavior and attitude of someone who they may suspect is struggling emotionally, said Ragain. “One thing that happens when people are thinking about suicide is they give out invitations to people, to connect with them and talk about their feelings,” said Ragain. “I use ‘invitations’ as opposed to ‘warning signs,’ because what they’re do-
ing is inviting other people to talk about this major decision they’re going to make in their life. These invitations may come in the form of the things they say like, ‘there’s no hope for me, things will be better once I’m gone.’ Or as blatant as,‘I’m going to kill myself.’ Invitations also come in the form of their appearance, or how they isolate themselves from other people.” Coe said that anyone can become susceptible to suicidal thoughts; thus it becomes important that everyone recognize their role as a resource by remaining vigilant to the signs that may be out of the ordinary with their co-worker or shipmate. “Being aware of changes in mood, demeanor and behaviors are key in recognizing early that something may be going on,” said Coe. “Knowing the resources available can also help get someone to the support they need sooner.” Once contact and communication is established, Sailors and individuals can then move on to subsequent resources that will work more directly to provide the support and help necessary. At this stage in the Navy, Broderick suggested that commands continue to stress that Sailors seek help and resources. “The more a difficult topic is discussed open and honestly, the more it breaks down the taboo/stigma. Recognizing that we all need help at different points in our lives is key,” said Coe. From Sept. 1 - 30,“I Pledge to ACT,”a webbased effort,will take place to encourage all Sailors, families and members of the Navy community to take steps in building personal resilience,supporting their shipmates and intervening if they notice signs of distress.The pledge is completely anonymous and available to all audiences through the NPC website, www.public.navy.mil.
10 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014
Ike departs dry dock, returning to the fleet From USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Public Affairs The aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (Ike) moved from Dry Dock 8 to pier 42/43 at Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) in Portsmouth Aug. 26. Thirty feet of water was introduced to Dry Dock 8 on Aug. 25, and the remaining space was flooded to the waterline Aug. 26. Once flooding was complete, Ike exited the dry dock for her new location on pier 42/43. Ike has been in dry dock since September 2013, conducting a scheduled docking planned incremental availability (DPIA) period. “Without the excellent work of the ship’s team leaders and zone managers, the ship wouldn’t have been ready when it was,” said Lt. Cmdr. Jeremy James, Ike’s maintenance manager.
James said the ship’s force and NNSY personnel worked well together, completing approximately 12,500 jobs prior to flooding the dock. Brian Bennett, the Ike DPIA project supervisor, said the undocking is the first of many major key events to come for the Ike project team. “Putting water on the hull and floating the ship is truly a monumental task,” he said. Capt. Mark Bridenstine, the commanding officer of NNSY, said it was the commitment and dedication of Bennett, deputy project superintendents John Tuthill and Steve Hein, and the entire Ike team that enabled the ship to reach this milestone. “With the undocking, the combined Norfolk Naval Shipyard, contractor and ship’s force team moves another step closer to delivery of this high-value asset
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Photo by MCSA Theodore Quintana Tugboats guide the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) from her dry dock at Norfolk Naval Shipyard to a nearby pier following a scheduled dock flooding earlier in the morning. Dwight D. Eisenhower is currently undergoing a scheduled docking planned incremental availability at Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
back to the fleet,”Bridenstine said.“[They] have overcome significant new work and production delays, leading to this momentous event in the life of a carrier dry-docking availability. Momentum is high and fo-
cused on production completion.” While most of Ike’s maintenance was — See IKE page 12
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 11
FFSC
Fleet and Family Support Centers
WORKSHOPS
grand re-opening p , PRIZES YS A GIVEAWRE! & MO
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.
BEAMS SEPT. 8 - 24, 2 - 4 P.M. Building Effective Anger Management Skills, or BEAMS, is held Mondays and Wednesdays. It is a skill-building program for active duty service members. Participants learn to develop new and effective coping strategies.
EFFECTIVE RESUME WRITING SEPT. 9, 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.
STEP SEPT. 9 - 18, 3 - 7 P.M. Systematic Training for Effective Parenting, or STEP, helps parents develop a positive and consistent approach for dealing with the special challenges of children under 6.Topics include understanding developmental sequences and accomplishments, building effective discipline skills, developing skills for communicating effectively with young children and more.
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SEPT. 10, 2 - 3:30 P.M. This interactive program, suitable for all audiences,is designed to develop more indepth knowledge and skills that will enable participants to save and invest wisely. Explore various investment options and learn which instrument best suits you and your individual goal.
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SEPT. 10, 3:30 - 5 P.M. The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) provides all service members with the opportunity to get an immediate tax break while saving for their and their family’s future. Learn how to take advantage of this government-sponsored saving and investment program.
This program provides financial information and guidance to single service members contemplating marriage and newly married service members. Topics covered are short and long-term financial goal-setting, spending plans, savings and investing and effective communication on financial matters.
This training teaches command personnel to serve as sponsors. Topics include ways to be an effective sponsor, duties and responsibilities, military and community sources of help, and FFSC relocation assistance.
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12 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014
END OF SUMMER
FREE STUFF & Weekend Plans Delivered to Your Inbox
Photo by MCSN Kayla King Families enjoyed some final summer activities together on Oceana and Dam Neck Annex, before the unofficial end of summer on Labor Day. Esmee Headgepath, 4, and Jack Folwood, 3, play in the ocean at the Dam Neck Annex beach Aug. 22.
IKE: has been in dry dock
since September 2013 —Continued from page 10
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completed during the past year, work remains to be completed in preparation for the ship’s return to operational readiness. James said the crew’s focus will be on moving the crew aboard the ship, getting the mess decks up and running, and getting critical systems in the ship’s Reactor and Combat Systems departments fully operational for the next deployment. Ike rested atop wooden and concrete blocks as the dock began to flood Aug. 25. The dock was only partly flooded on the first day of the evolution to test various systems for any necessary rework. Early the next morning Aug. 26, the shipyard resumed flooding operations, and Ike floated for the first time in nearly a year. Later that afternoon, with the assistance of tug boats, Ike was relocated from Dry
Dock 8 to new moorage at pier 42/43. “Having Ike back in the water is a major milestone as we progress through this maintenance period,” said Capt. Stephen T. Koehler, Ike’s commanding officer.“Not only does it allow us to do maintenance that had to wait until we were waterborne, but it gives the crew and the shipyard a very big morale boost to achieve this event.” The next major milestone during Ike’s DPIA will be crew move aboard, which is scheduled to commence in less than a month. “Both the crew and I are fired up to move back aboard and bring the Ike back to life,” Koehler said. “The entire ship’s force and shipyard team has worked extremely hard getting us to this point, and now we must keep up the maintenance and training focus throughout the fall to get Ike back to the fleet.”
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 13
COMMUNITY
CALENDAR Visit www.oceanajetobserver.com for more events in and around NAS Oceana!
HAMPTON HORROR STORIES GHOST TOUR AND OPEN AUDITIONS AUDITIONS: SEPT. 10, 6 - 7:30 P.M. TOURS: OCT. 27 - 31
Photo provided The annual Hampton Bay Days will take place Sept. 5 -7 and features entertainment for the entire family.
Hampton Bay Days This weekend, Sept. 5-7, Hampton will once again welcome an estimated 150,000 fun seekers and festival attendees to the 32nd annual Hampton Bay Days. The free event, one of the largest family-friendly festivals and largest “green” events on the entire east coast, will showcase music by artists such as Amy Ferebee and Regina Scott, Narissa Bond,The Hark, Robbin Thompson Band, Bria Kelly Band, Seth Stainback, The Deloreans,The Whiteman Family Gospel Group, Cheap Thrills, Mister Eddie Sal and Bourbon Street at Bay Days, and a special Friday night twilight performance by U.S.Air Force Blue Aces and a Sunday performance by U.S.Army TRADOC BrassBand. In addition to the musical entertainment, the festival will also include over 75 merchandise and craft vendors. During festival weekend, more than 20 food vendors will also be available throughout the downtown area.Those looking for more conventional dining options can choose one of the many eclectic restaurants that line historic Queens Way. While at Bay Days, don’t forget to educate yourself on the value and importance of the Chesapeake Bay by stopping at the bay education area, located at Carousel Park. For more information on the Hampton Bay Days, call 727-8311 or visit www.baydays.com. For hotel and package information, check out www.visithampton.com.
The Hampton History Museum is seeking performers to bring to life stories and figures from the city’s dark side for a week of evening tours to be offered this Halloween. An open audition will be held at the museum on Sept. 10, 6 -7:30 p.m. No experience is necessary for these volunteer positions. Once chosen, actors can create their own costumes with guidance from museum staff. Departing the museum at 7 p.m., Oct. 27, through Halloween night, Oct. 31, the one-hour tours will include eerie tales of old Hampton and the Coastal Virginia/Tidewater area. Guided by historian and Hampton History Museum Curator Michael Cobb, the tour will encounter actors portraying the first witch recorded in America, ghosts of Civil War Soldiers, pirates from Blackbeard’s crew, a speakeasy proprietor, escaped prisoners, yellow fever victims, and more characters from the city’s tales of mystery and the macabre. Each tour will include the grisly side of Hampton history, special surprises and a spooky lantern tour of the St. John’s Church graveyard, and other points of fright along Queen Street and around downtown Hampton. Tickets are $5 in advance per person, $8 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Hampton History Museum and Visitor Center,or reserved by credit or debit card by calling 727-1102. Proceeds benefit Hampton History Museum educational programs.
MARITIME HERITAGE CONFERENCE SEPT. 17 - 20 Does your office building have decks instead of floors? Does your commute to/from work include sea states and sea spray? Is your daily inspiration derived by the smell of the sea, marine blue waters or the sound of sea gulls? Do you work for an organization that is dedicated to ensuring the rest of the world understands our maritime history? Do you long for a day when the name “Charles W. Morgan” is as well known as “Nemo” or “Dory”? Then this conference is for you! Join us for the 10th Maritime Heritage Conference (MHC) — a gathering of folks who want to ensure that the history of the sea is fun, interactive, memorable and mainstream. Full conference registration is $350. Price includes all sessions, breakfasts, lunches, receptions and National Maritime Alliance Dinner. Day registrations are $135 per day. Immerse yourself in our rich maritime past, while experiencing our maritime present and future. Whether
Friday, Sept. 5 *Active duty receives free admission to 6 p.m. movie! 6 p.m. - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (PG-13, 99 min.) 9 p.m. - Into the Storm (PG-13, 89 min.)
Saturday, Sept. 6 Noon - Guardians of the Galaxy in 3D (PG-13, 121 min.) 3 p.m. - The Hundred-Foot Journey (PG, 117 min.) 6 p.m. - Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in 3D (PG-13, 99 min.) 9 p.m. - Planet of the Apes (PG-13, 130 min.)
Sunday, Sept. 7 *FREE SNEAK PREVIEW! Doors open at 1 p.m. 2 p.m. - Dolphin Tale 2 (PG, 120 min.) 6 p.m. - Hercules in 3D (PG-13, 99 min.) 875 D Ave., building 531 | 433-2391 | Schedule is subject to change, call ahead for details. Cash or credit accepted for concessions and admission. Doors open approximately 30 minutes before showtimes. Children ages 2 and younger are admitted free. Patrons 17 years of age or younger must be accompanied by a paying adult to attend all R-rated movies.
you like to teach, talk, paint, photograph, sing, restore or research all things nautical, you have a place at the MHC!
HAMPTON COLISEUM DISCOUNTS The Hampton Coliseum is offering a military discount for select events.The military discount is available at the Hampton Coliseum Box Office and Ticketmaster outlets only. Offers are not valid on previous purchases or with other discounts. Disney on Ice presents “Frozen” — Sept. 24 - 28, military offer is 20 percent off select tickets and performances. Not valid on day of show or on the Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. performance. Limited tickets are available. Deadline for group orders is Sept. 23.Additional fees may apply. Monster Jam — Feb. 13 - 15, military offer is $12 per ticket, $5 for children ages 2 - 12. Discount is valid on tickets regularly priced at $25.Deadline for group orders is Feb. 11.Additional fees may apply. For more information, call 838-4203 or visit www. hamptoncoliseum.org.
14 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014
SPORTS &
FITNESS S
Share HEART in Africa - 2014 Race for Hope Help chase Ebola out of Africa Sept. 6, registration begins at 7 a.m. at the Mariner’s Museum and Park in Newport News. The event will include a 10K, 5K, 1-mile and interactive 1-mile. Donations of medical supplies will be collected at the race. For pricing, registration and more information, visit www. ShareHEARTinAfrica.org.
Wing civilian celebrates two big milestones in 2014 BY CATHY HEIMER Jet Observer Natalie Bell recently celebrated 20 years of government service during an awards ceremony at Commander Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic (CSFWL). But Bell also has another major milestone to celebrate. In one year, she has shed more than 50 pounds — and kept it off. When Bell, the supply budget advisor at Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic, ran her first Dismal Swamp Stomp Half Marathon, it was with quite a bit more weight on her frame. In a little over a year, an additional half marathon, 10K runs and countless shorter races later, Bell has shed 55 pounds and has been able to come off of nine medicines she was prescribed for a laundry list of ailments. Bell has Hashimoto's disease, in which the immune system attacks the thyroid.
Photo provided Natalie Bell smiles and waves while running her first half marathon, the Dismal Swamp Stomp in Chesapeake. With exercise and a change in diet, Bell has lost and kept off 55 pounds and was able to come off of nine prescribed medicines.
She explained how she was misdiagnosed with Fibromyalgia, her blood work was out of whack and she had been prescribed the cocktail of medications. After all the medicines, Bell still wasn’t feeling better, so her doctor adjusted her thyroid medication and told her to come back in six months. “I told him no. I want to go see an endocrinologist. I just got lucky with the right person. He detoxed me off all my meds, which took me three months. I got my thyroid level right,”explained Bell. She then followed the specialist’s suggestions of a good diet and exercise. For Bell, finding the right doctor made all the difference in her health. “I’m in the gym four times a week now, exercising like crazy,”she said with a smile. She works out at the fitness center near her home in Chesapeake for 60 – 90 minutes.When she’s not in the gym, she stays active by riding bikes with her husband or taking her two dogs for a walk. “I’m a big advocate of being in charge of your own health and I’m also a big advocate of holistic health,” Bell said. For her, holistic health means “integrating natural sources into my diet to build my immune system and stay healthy, with clean eating and herbal supplements.” She agreed to run the first road race as a way to encourage a friend, who had recently lost her mom. The friend is also a doctor of holistic medicine. Bell keeps photos of her first road races and her medals in her office to help motivate others, particularly the Sailors who are struggling with staying in shape to meet fitness standards. “They’ve got to stay healthy, it’s part of their requirements,” she said, adding “If I can do it, anyone can do it.” Bell began her civil service career in as a GS-5 at the American Embassy in Kuwait in the Office of Military Cooperation, where she was a budget assistant. Married
Photo by MC2 (SW) Alysia Hernandez Natalie Bell’s 20-year service award is pinned on by her husband, retired Lt. Cmdr. William Bell during a ceremony at CSFWL May 20. Watching is Commander, Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic Capt. Mark Weisgerber. Bell is the supply budget advisor for CSFWL.
to a supply officer at that time, she spent two years overseas before moving to Virginia. It only took her about six weeks to land a job at Fighter Wing Atlantic, which was in charge of the Navy’s F-14 Tomcats. She was the travel program manager from October 1995 through the disestablishment of Fighter Wing in September 2004. She moved across the Oceana flightline to CSFWL, which is in charge of the F/A-18 Hornets and Super Hornets,where she has been since 2004 and has earned the Civilian of the Quarter award. “I still feel as a civilian, I’m serving my country,” explained Bell about why she has continued for 20 years as a government civilian. “I like every aspect of my job. I’m a numbers girl, I take what little we get and make it stretch and stretch and stretch … I pull figures and numbers and see how we can make this better on the flightline,” she explained. While she’s not a supervisor, her job provides her the opportunity to help the Navy’s logistics specialists better do their jobs and “that’s what I enjoy the most,” said Bell. Because she enjoys teaching others, Bell makes time to conduct training.“I’ll always
be available for squadrons who have questions,” she said. She encourages the Sailors to stop by her office in Hangar 122 with their questions or requests for assistance. Bell has an Associate Degree in Business Management and has three classes left to finish a Bachelor’s in Organizational Management. The Navy also requires her to complete the DoD Financial Management Certification, level one certification. The certification is a two-year program and accepts many of her college credits, which in turn encouraged her to return to school. For Bell, it’s important to volunteer in the community. She’s very active with “We Care Marines,” which honors the memory of Lance Cpl. Cody Childers, a 19-year-old Chesapeake resident killed in 2010 while serving in Afghanistan. Her son was friends with Childers, a Hickory High School graduate, so supporting the foundation is a personal mission for the mother of four and grandmother of five. Her community service also involves working with the local schnauzer rescue. “I’m not that person who sits still, I guess,” she said about her after-work activities that include camping in addition to working out. “After feeling bad for so long, I want to feel good for as much as possible,”she said.
September 4, 2014 • JET OBSERVER 15
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Sample ad
Run a 1x1 ad for 5 weeks for $125 ($25/week) SERVICES
To advertise with Military Newspapers of Virginia, call Dot Way at 757-222-5374.
FIND WHAT YOU’RE E LOOKING FOR IN THE CLASSIFIEDS.
PA I N T I N G
SERVICES
Int/Ext Painting y Pressure Washing Preservation y Restoration and Design TURNING A JOB TO DO INTO A JOB WELL DONE.
757-123-1234
16 JET OBSERVER • September 4, 2014