The newest addition to the fleet arrives in Norfolk
ByLashawnSykes
USN Military Sealift Command
NORFOLK, Va Naval Station Norfolk
welcomed the U.S. Navy’s newest vessel
USNS Robert E. Simanek (T-ESB 7) to its new home on May 5, after completing its maiden voyage from San Diego, Calif The event was attended by friends and family, including his daughter Ann Simanek Clark whoservesastheship’ssponsor
Simanek is named in honor of Private First-ClassRobertEarnestSimanek,adecorated U.S. Marine who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Battle ofBunkerHillduringtheKoreanWar.
Simanek is the fifth expeditionary sea-base vessel, a variant of the Montford Point-class expeditionary transfer dock (ESD) platform, built for Military Sealift Command (MSC). ESBs are highly flexible platforms that provide logistics movement
fromseatoshore,supportingabroadrange ofmilitaryoperations
Simanek’s Executive Officer Lt Cmdr. MichaelJ.Cullensaidthecrewisexcitedto welcomethisnewhulltothefleet.“Formost of our Sailors, this is their first time workingonahybridmannedship.“WhenSailors and civilian mariners come together with a commongoal,theNavycanachievegreater operationalefficiency flexibility andreadiness all of which is of vital importance to itsfuture.
Thishybridcrewconcepthasbeenpreviously proven on commissioned warships such as USS Frank Cable (AS 40), USS Emory S. Land (AS 39), USS Mount Whitney (LLC20), USS Ponce (AFSB(I) 15), and USSHershel“Woody”Williams(ESB4).
WhilehomeportedinNorfolk,Simanek’s crewwillbe100-plusstrong withacomplementofU.S.NavySailorsandofficers known as the blue and gold military crews, who
ByPettyOfficer3rdClassSisiLopezBarahona
Navy Public Affairs Support Element East - (Reserve)
SailorsassignedtoNavyReserveNavyPublicAffairsSupport Element (NR NPASE) East participated in a training exercise May 2, 2025 aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USSKearsarge(LHD3).
The training, conducted by the ship’s public affairs shop, focusedonOperationalTaskVisualInformation(OPTASKVI) procedures and reinforced operational readiness across both activeandreservecomponents OPTASKVIisa“no-fail”missiondesignedtocaptureimagery and document unsafe, unprofessional, or nefarious activitiesbyadversariesatsea,onland,orintheair Thisabilitytoto deliveraccurateimagerynotonlyinformspublicunderstanding but also plays a strategic role in shaping international perceptionsanddeterringmisinformation.
“OPTASK VI is really important because you are communicating to the world interactions that happen that may be unprofessional,”saidMassCommunicationSpecialist2ndClass TaylorParker USSKearsarge’saerialcameraman.“Beingable tocommunicatewhathappenedandwhyithappenedissuper
alternate manning the vessel and allowing for continuous strategic deterrence patrols at sea, and civilian mariners who operate, navigate,andmaintainthevessel.
While today marks the end of Simanek’s maiden voyage, it is also a new beginning for our crew as they come together to forge newbonds,Cullensaid “Beingabletobuild comradery helps to create a sense of trust among the men and women who serve aboard the vessel, enabling them to rely on each other’s skills and expertise, regardless ofrankorbackground.
The784ft.-longvesselisdesignedaround four core capabilities: aviation facilities, berthing,equipmentstaging,andcommand andcontrolassets Itwillprimarilysupport a variety of aviation mine countermeasures and special operations missions freeing up amphibious warships and surface combatantshipstobereassignedformoredemandingoperationalmissions.
With a 9,500 nautical mile range at a sustained speed of 15 knots Simanek is approximately 90,000 tons and has a beam of164feet.Additionally,theship’ssizeallows for25,000squarefeetofvehicleandequipment stowage space and 380,000 gallons of JP-5fuelstorage MSC operates approximately 125 non-combatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions and strategically preposition combatcargoatseaaroundtheworldwhile moving military cargo and supplies used by deployedU.S.forcesandcoalitionpartners Formoreinformation,visitwww.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy,orwww.twitter com/usnavy For more news from Military Sealift Command,visithttps://www.msc.usff.navy mil/
Standing out in the information fight; NAVIFOR announces FY24 Sailor of the Year
ByJoshuaRodriguez
Naval Information Forces
SUFFOLK Va Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR) announceditsFiscalYear2024TypeCommand(TYCOM) Sailor of the Year during a ceremony held May 8, 2025, in the Hall of Heroes at the Department of Defense Suffolk Complex.
NAVIFOR’s Sailor of the Year program honors the top-performing enlisted Sailors from across the TYCOM’s global footprint, which includes afloat teams, expeditionary commands, training units, and warfare development centers Finalists were nominated by their commands for their exceptional performance leadership and technical expertise
The ceremony, hosted by Force Master Chief Augustine Cooper, recognized the best of the Information Warfare (IW)enlistedforce Eachfinalistshowcasedsuperiortechnical acumen and leadership within their respective sea or shorecommands
The 2025 NAVIFOR Shore Sailor of the Year finalists:
Builder1stClass(IW/SCW/EXW/AW)JoshuaBosworthCadinha, Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area MasterStationAtlantic
Aerographer’s Mate 1st Class (IW/EXW/AW) Mac McDaniel,FleetWeatherCenterSanDiego
IntelligenceSpecialist1stClass(IW/SW/EXW)Andrew Flores NimitzWarfareAnalysisCenter
Aerographer’s Mate 1st Class (IW/EXW) Elizabeth Bradley Naval Information Warfare Training Group Gulfport
Information Systems Technician 1st Class (SW) Gordon Todd,DirectReportNavalInformationForcesCommand The 2025 NAVIFOR Sea Sailor of the Year finalists:
Cryptologic Technician Interpretive 1st Class (IW/SW) Sabrina Agnewrossbauer, Navy Information Operations CommandPacific
Aerographer’sMate1stClass(IW/SW/AW)JustinSimon, StrikeGroupOceanographyTeamSanDiego
Sonar Technician Surface 1st Class (SW) Shawn Miller, FarragutTechnicalAnalysisCenter
Cryptologic Technician Technical 1st Class (SW) Grant Patterson, Naval Information Warfare Training Group San Diego
“These nine Sailors represent the pinnacle of excellence within the Information Warfare community,” said Cooper “They reflect the very best of our force and are ready to lead usintothefuture.”
Inthedaysleadinguptotheannouncement,finalistsparticipatedinleadershipengagements,mentorshipsessions,and panelinterviewsdesignedtoassesstheirtechnicalexpertise, professionalism,andalignmentwithNavycorevalues
Vice Adm. Mike Vernazza, commander Naval InformationForces,deliveredkeynoteremarksduringtheceremony.
“TheseSailorsarenotjusttechnicalexperts—theyarewarfighters,” said Vernazza. “They’ve operated in high-stakes environments,enabledintegratedeffectsacrossthespectrum of conflict, and consistently demonstrated the highest stan-
dardsofourprofession.
Headded,“Thisceremonyisn’tjustaboutrecognition—it’s about reflection. These finalists have supported real-world missionsandenabledintegratedeffectsfromseabedtospace.”
“InformationWarfareisnolongerasupportingfunction— it is a primary warfighting discipline,” Vernazza continued. “Everymission,everyphaseofoperations,andeveryvictory increasinglydependsonourabilitytodeliverdecisionadvantage dominatetheelectromagneticspectrum andshapethe information environment. These Sailors understand that Theyliveit.
“To our finalists—your journey is just beginning, Cooper said.“OurNavyiscountingonyoutocarryforwardthestandardyou’vesethere.I’mproudtoservewithyou—andproud ofwhatyourepresent.”
Cryptologic Technician Interpretive 1st Class (IW/SW) Sabrina Agnewrossbauer, Navy Information Operations CommandPacific,wasnamedthe2025NAVIFORSeaSailor of the Year Builder 1st Class (IW/SCW/EXW/AW) Joshua Bosworth-Cadinha Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic, was named the Shore SailoroftheYear AlthoughallnineSailorswereexceptional,onlyonecould be named TYCOM Sailor of the Year The announcement of CTI1AgnewrossbauerastheFY24NAVIFORTYCOMSailor
oftheYearwasmetwithastandingovation.
“Iwanttogiveaspecialthankstomyfamily—mydad,and mymom—aswellastomymentorsforpushingtobehereasa nominee,”saidAgnewrossbauer “Ialsowanttothankallmy Sailors and shipmates—they are the reason I am here today it’stheirhardworkthatallowsmetocelebratethem.”
AgnewrossbaueralsoofferedadvicetootherSailorsaspiringtoearnSOYhonors
“Take on the hard jobs and give it everything you have when you are done make it the job that everyone else wants totakeon, shesaid.
The Navy’s Sailor of the Year program is a time-honored tradition established in 1972 by then-Chief of Naval OperationsAdm.ElmoZumwaltandMasterChiefPettyOfficerof the Navy John Whittet. It recognizes superior performance byindividualSailorswhobestembodytheNavyCoreValues FormoreinformationaboutNavalInformationForces,visit https://www.navifor.usff.navy.mil.
NAVIFOR’s mission: To generate—directly and through leadershipoftheIWEnterprise—agileandtechnicallysuperior,manned,trained,equipped,andcertifiedcombat-ready IWforcestodecisivelyDETER,COMPETE,andWIN Follow NAVIFOR on Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/NavalInformationForces or visit our public webpage: https://www.navifor.usff.navy.mil
NCTS HR holds change of command ceremony
and
Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Hampton Roads (NCTS HR) heldachangeofcommandceremonyaboard Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads in Norfolk,Va.,April25
During the ceremony, Capt. Craig M. Gilkey transferred responsibility as the commandingofficertoCmdr.SeanS.Brown. “ForthecrewhereatNCTSHR,thankyou allfortheopportunitytoleadyoufornearly twoyears,”saidGilkey “Myexperienceover my time in the military is that a leader, or leaders, will provide some goals and vision some or all of which may or may not be achievedorrealized.Well,wedidit,thanks to your hard work, we met the objectives I
laid out during the change of command in June of 2023 Cmdr Brown’s experience speaks ‘NC3,’ as well as lots of time leading and mentoring Sailors. Very few communicators in the crowd don’t know Sean and the impact he’s made at NCDOC, as well as at NCTAMS LANT Sean will take us to the nextstage.”
Capt. Brett O’Donovan, commanding officer, Naval Computer and Telecommunications Area Master Station Atlantic (NCTAMS LANT), presided over the ceremony, praising Gilkey for his exceptional leadershipanddedicationtothecommand. Gilkey, a native of Kentucky, enlisted in the United States Navy in 1993 as a Hospital Corpsman. He was commissioned upon completion of a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University in 2004, via the Enlisted Commissioning Program,
Air Group Headquarters building onboard the installation which is anticipated to be completedbyApril2028. Themaximumdollarvalue,includingthe basepriceandnineoptions,is$81,929,000 Thecontractwillbeincrementallyfunded. Fiscalyear(FY)2024militaryconstruction funds in the amount of $54,750,000 for the first increment will be obligated at the time oftheawardandwillnotexpireattheendof theFY Thesecondincrementwillbefunded
as a Surface Warfare Officer - Information Professional (IP) option. After earning his Surface Warfare Officer qualification, he transferred to the IP community in 2005 He completed a master’s degree at Naval PostgraduateSchoolinInformationSystems Operations. Brown, who reports from duty astheExecutiveOfficer,NavyCyberDefense Operations Command, assumed command of more than 130 military and civilian personnelatNCTSHR
“I am profoundly privileged to join this exceptionalteam,ateamthatembodiesthe very essence of dedication, expertise and unwavering commitment, said Brown. Brown, a native of Georgia, enlisted in the United States Navy in 1992 He attended Recruit Training and Radioman Class “A” School in San Diego, Calif., in 1995 Brown is a graduate of Wayland Baptist University
with a bachelor’s degree in management of informationsystems,andoftheNavalPostgraduateSchoolwithamaster’sinnetwork operationsandtechnology
NCTS HR provides global nuclear command, control, and communications operational reporting and support for Fixed Submarine Broadcast System (FSBS) sites Additionally, NCTS Hampton Roads provides Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) node site operations, Radio Frequency systems support, andKeyManagementInfrastructure(KMI) support.NCTSHRoperationallyreportsto Commander10thFleetviaTaskForce1010, Naval Network Warfare Command, and NCTAMSLANT
in FY2026 in the amount of $12,406,265 for theremainingbaseamountof$67,156,265 Thiscontractwascompetitivelyprocured via the www.sam.gov website, with two offersreceived.
NAVFAC MIDLANT is the contracting activity(N40085-25-C-2515).
NAVFAC MIDLANT provides facilities engineering,publicworksandenvironmental products and services across an area of responsibility that spans from South Carolina to Maine as far west as Illinois and
down to Indiana. As an integral member of theCommander NavyRegionMid-Atlantic team, NAVFAC MIDLANT provides leadershipthroughtheRegionalEngineerorganizationtoensuretheregion’sfacilitiesand infrastructure are managed efficiently and effectively For additional information about NAVFACMIDLANTonsocialmedia,follow ouractivitiesonFacebookatwww.facebook. com/navfacmidatlanticandonInstagram@ navfacmidatlantic.
NAS Oceana Project SEARCH graduate named employee of the year at local elementary school
ByKatieHewett Naval Air Station Oceana
Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana is proud to recognize the success of Tanner Strickland, a 2024 graduate of the installation’s Project SEARCH program, who recently received Brookwood Elementary School’s EmployeeoftheYearaward.
Stricklandachievedhisgoaltoworkinthe schoolsystemthroughtheProjectSEARCH program—an innovative organization that helps young adults with developmental disabilities gain hands-on job experience to help transition into competitive employment. Strickland now works in Brookwood Elementary’scafeteria.
NAS Oceana Commanding Officer Capt. JoshAppezzato,ExecutiveOfficerCapt.Rob Littman,andothermembersofNASOceana and Virginia Beach City Public Schools attended the award ceremony to celebrate Strickland’saccomplishment.
“Tanner walked up to me at the orientation for last year’s program as one of our interns,andIknewhewoulddoexceptionally well,” said Appezzato “This is exactly why we believe so strongly in Project SEARCH Tanner’sstoryisjustoneexample of how when you invest in people, amazing thingshappen.” During the ceremony, Strickland shared afewwordsofencouragementandthanked BrookwoodElementarystudentsandfaculty formakinghimfeelwelcomed.
“Idoitforallofyou,”Stricklandsaid.“Not just for the first graders, second graders or the third graders I do it all for you in this wholeentireschool…thankyou.”
Since starting the program in Sept. 2021, Project SEARCH interns have completed 72 internships across 16 businesses at NAS Oceana. Collectively, they worked over 15,620 hours, gaining employability and independentlivingskills
To date, 23 Project SEARCH graduates have found long-term employment upon completionoftheprogramatNASOceana. At the end of the yearlong program, NAS Oceana hosts a graduation ceremony for ProjectSEARCHgraduates Thisyear’sgraduationceremonyisscheduledforJune2025 Additional details about this year’s graduationwillbesharedclosertotheeventdate
NavalAirStation Oceana 2024 Project SEARCH graduate
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uarterdeck
Office
A Misconception of Corrosion
In a quiet hangar on an airbase, an F-35 Lightning II aircraft sits silently, its sleek lines slightly marred by streaks of discoloration. Exposure to jet blast, airborne debris, oil, and fuel residues in harsh environments has left marks on its surface a commonoccurrenceforanyfighteraircraft Butbeneaththatwornexterior,lowobservable (LO) characteristics remain uncompromised. This is the natural result of high-performance operations in unforgivingconditions
Discoloration vs Degradation
Muchofwhatthepublicseesasdamage, such as the discoloration on jets return-
ing from deployment, does not represent a degraded aircraft. During shipboard deployments jets often experience coatingdiscolorationduetotheharshmaritime environment.Contributingfactorsinclude frequent exposure to sea water, contamination from grease, oil, and other fluids, as well as close proximity to jet blast and rotor wash.
Whileitmaylooksevere,thesemarksdo not indicate a loss of coating integrity nor stealth performance The discoloration is limited to the coating and does not affect the structure of the aircraft.
The F-35 Lightning II Joint Program Office(JPO)hasdevelopedandintroduced a new aircraft coating designed to significantly reduce or eliminate discoloration, enhancedurability,andextendthecoating’s servicelife Overthecomingyears,thisnew coating will be applied to fielded aircraft as part of routine maintenance—similar to how coatings are restored on commercial and military jets It will provide improved protection against operational wear and is part of a broader series of upgrades that supporttheprogram’slong-term,adaptive sustainability strategy
A Battle in the Background
Corrosion doesn’t come with flashing alarms or immediate system failures—it works quietly and gradually, often concealed beneath coatings or hidden within seams, joints, and fasteners The F-35’s complex airframe, made from a blend of aluminum, titanium, and carbon composites, offers immense performance benefits but also introduces the risk of galvanic corrosion when these dissimilar metals interact in humid, salty environments
Recognizing the threat corrosion poses, the F-35 JPO has made corrosion control a top priority Over time, the program has steadily implemented measures to reduce corrosion risks across the fleet. In recentyears,theseeffortshaveintensified, supported by a larger more focused team driving a coordinated, enterprise-wide strategy This evolving corrosion control programensurestheF-35remainssafeand mission-ready in diverse environments— fromsaltyoceanairaboardaircraftcarriers to humid, tropical forward bases Thiswasnotalwaysthecase Forseveral
years, the F-35 JPO operated without a fully developed corrosion management framework. This left field maintainers and depotcrewsplaying“catch-up”asthefleet matured. Today,theseteams,supportedbyagrowing base of engineers and other experts, are bringing every jet up to standard and improved supply chain of consumables, ensuring long-term readiness and mission capability
Pride in Persistence
The F-35 JPO’s battle with corrosion improvement and management is not dramatic. It does not make headlines like a successful sortie or a new weapons integration.Butitisvital.Itisongoing Anditis beingwonthankstothededicationofmaintainers depot teams and engineers who areworkingtirelesslytoprotecttheworld’s most advanced fighter aircraft.
These efforts ensure that the F-35 remainsnotjustcapable,butreliable,ready to dominate the skies for decades to come
ByTroyMiller Norfolk Naval Shipyard
With world events constantly changing, the U.S. Navy needs to change as well to continuetoconductitsmissionofprotecting Americaatsea.Alongsideitsalliesandpartners, the Navy defends freedom, preserves economic prosperity, and keeps the seas openandfree TheUnitedStatesisengaged inlong-termcompetition.TodefendAmericaninterestsaroundtheglobe theU.S.Navy mustremainpreparedtoexecuteitstimeless role, as directed by Congress and the President.
“Navyleadershipislookingateverything through a warfighting lens, and so must we The time is now to increase the Navy’s capability and capacity so we can be ready tosurgeeffectively,”saidNavalSeaSystems (NAVSEA) Commander Vice Adm. James Downey
One change NAVSEA made to support this effort was aligning all four public naval shipyards to have a senior naval officer as the Engineering and Planning Department Head (Code 200). It was not uncommon for the public shipyards to have a civilian employeeinthisrolepriortothechange
“I think part of assigning a Captain to lead Code 200 is to help us challenge what processes we use today; what metrics we look at; and whether or not we can change, amend, or remove burdensome processes those which overwhelmingly influence success for mechanics on the waterfront,” saidNNSY’sPlanningandEngineeringOfficer Capt. Jonathan Gandy “Plus, naval officerswholeadinshipyardshavelivedonboth sides of the fence as a Sailor on ships or submarines aswellasinvariousnavalshipyard leadership roles where civilians carry the weight of successful work execution on whichtheFleetsodesperatelydepends Our NNSYmilitaryleadershiphavethepotential and the obligation to strengthen communi-
Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s Nuclear Production Manager
Scott
Durdle brings new perspective to the position
ByTroyMiller Norfolk Naval Shipyard
Normally Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s (NNSY) Nuclear Production Managers (Code300N)starttheirshipyardcareerasa mechanicandworktheirwayuptobecome theNuclearProductionDepartmentHead; however, this wasn’t the case for NNSY’s newestNuclearProductionManager,Scott Durdle, who recently took over the positionafterstartinghisNNSYcareerinApril 2023
“I served over 30 years in the U.S. Navy before becoming a shipyard employee, but this isn’t my first time working at NNSY,” saidDurdle “IwasstationedattheNorfolk Naval Shipyard Naval Reactors Representative’s Office serving first as the Moored Training Ship Conversion Program Manager and then as the Deputy Naval ReactorsRepresentativeuntilIretiredasa Commander in September 2022.”
DurdlealsocompletedtoursattheNaval Reactors Field Offices at Nuclear Power Training Unit (NPTU) Charleston and NPTU Ballston Spa, where he provided oversightofday-to-dayoperations,planned andexecutedmaintenanceshutdowns,and trained students and staff He completed tours onboard the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Albuquerque (SSN 706) and the Nimitz-class nuclear aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).
“After retiring from the Navy in 2022, I became a defense contractor for about a year,” said Durdle “It was a remote job, which I wanted to like, but I missed my three passions: personal development, delivering ships to the fleet and project management This particular job did not have any of those There wasn’t any camaraderie either and I missed that. Fortunately,NNSY’sOperationsManager(Code 301) position became available. This was a perfect fit for me I applied and was hired in April 2023 which eventually led me to becoming Nuclear Production Manager.” Code 300N is responsible for approxi-
lead the NuclearProduction Department to deliverthe ships and submarines backto the fleet to continue to support the Navy’s mission, said Durdle.(PHOTOBYDANIELDEANGELIS,NORFOLKNAVALSHIPYARD)
mately 500,000 mandays a year of nuclear work, which is approximately one-third of the workload NNSY performs This includes nuclear work performed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, Georgia; NPTUCharleston;NPTUBallstonSpa;and Nuclear Regional Maintenance Department (NRMD) Norfolk, Virginia.
“Unlikemostofmysuccessfulpredecessors, I was not ‘born and raised’ at NNSY as a civilian employee,” said Durdle “I do believe however, with my experiences as both enlisted and as an officer, service aboard both aircraft carriers and submarines,and18yearsworkingforNavalReactors that I bring a different perspective to this position where I understand the businessfromadifferentlensthanmostpeople seeit.ItiswiththisperspectiveandexperiencethatIaimtomakeCode300Nthebest
departmentpossibleandfocusoncompleting nuclear work with first-time quality.”
Durdle hails from Sheridan, Michigan. Aftergraduatinghighschool,Durdleknew he wasn’t ready for college and thought joiningtheNavywouldbeagoodholdover choiceuntilhefiguredoutwhathewanted to do
“I was a straight C student all through highschool.Ididjustenoughtogetby,”said Durdle “Afriendofminewhohadenlisted in the Navy came back and told me about allthismoneyhewasgettingforjoiningthe Navy’snuclearprogram.Ilikedthisidea,so I joined the Navy as a nuclear electrician’s mate What started as a six-year commitment, ended up being a 30-year career.”
During his career, Durdle found himself becoming a “lifetime learner.” He’s earned a bachelor’s degree in business adminis-
tration at Limestone College, Gaffney, South Carolina and a second bachelor’s in nuclear engineering technology at Excelsior College Albany, New York. He most recently earned a master’s degree in project management from Liberty University, Lynchburg, Virginia; and is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) bytheProjectManagementInstitute Additionally, in 2024 Durdle became a certified JohnMaxwellSpeaker,Trainer,andCoach.
“Not only did I focus on college during my time in the Navy but I also worked on qualifications above that required for my paygrade,”saidDurdle “Iqualifiedasengineeringwatchsupervisorasasecondclass petty officer and engineering officer of the watch as a first class petty officer Both of thoseaccomplishmentswererareonboard submarines because those positions were geared towards Sailors and officers of higher ranks.”
So what made Durdle go from a straight C high school student to a successful “lifetime learner?”
“I married my high school sweetheart, Marianne, and I became responsible for somebody other than myself,” said Durdle “It gave me a drive from that time moving forward and I headed on a lifelong pursuit of bettering myself This allowed me to provideformywifeof33yearstoallowher tofocusonraisingourthreechildren.This was my initial drive but now I just enjoy continuing to learn as much as I can about project management, leadership, and any other topic that seems interesting.”
He added, “Now I will face new challenges,continuetolearnandpassdownthe knowledge and experience I have gained overtheyearstoCode300Nemployeesfor their professional development growth. It is my hope one day, that many Code 300N personnel will commit to becoming ‘lifetime learners’ and show our Navy, our country and the world why Norfolk Naval Shipyard is America’s Shipyard!”
DLA director engages Energy leaders
ByEbonyGay
DefenseLogisticsAgencyEnergyhosted agency senior leaders May 2 to review the organization’s performance and discuss strategies for adapting to changing operational conditions, integrating artificial intelligence, and improving overall agency performance in support of the warfighter DLA Energy Commander Navy Rear Adm. George Bresnihan and DLA Energy Deputy Commander David Kless hosted DLADirectorArmyLt Gen.MarkSimerly andAirForceCommandChiefMasterSgt. Alvin Dyer, DLA senior enlisted leader, at theMcNamaraHeadquartersComplexfor the DLA Energy mid-year Annual Operating Plan review a structured approach to planning, executing and monitoring the organization’s activities ensuring it stays on track to achieve strategic goals Upon kicking off the mid-year AOP review,Simerlyexpressedhisgratitudefor effortstakenbytheDLAEnergyworkforce to support the warfighter. Simerly said he’s grateful for the organization’s leadership for global execution across the DLA missionforalltheservices,allthetime He referred to DLA Energy actions as “really remarkable.” Bresnihan echoed the sentiment, saying hisleaders“makeithappen”whenproviding top-notch aid to DLA’s lead customer, the warfighter
The mid-year AOP review is an azimuth check to evaluate current operability to determine whether an organization stays the course or adjusts its path forward.
“Our real calibration and determination of success is what we’re going to be able to do,” Simerly stated. “That’s really our measure as we think about how we transfer, how we optimize our ability to operate,andhowweoptimizeoursupplychain strategies.”
Simerlyemphasizedtheimportanceofa disciplined,deliberateapproachtochange management, stressing strategy must be adaptive to continuously shifting operational conditions
Thesignificanceofartificialintelligence was addressed as the agency embraces the integration of digital and databased tools
Theagencyneedsadigitalthreadacross DLA’ssupplychains Simerlysaid.DLAcan have continuous flow of data for internal access to measure performance ProtectingDLA’sperformancebeyonddigitalflow to ensure integrity and the quality of the agency’s work is essential. This drives the need for data scientists, data engineers, andDLA-wideanalyststomeasureperformance he said.
“We should evaluate best practices and share these processes to improve, said Simerly “If there’s weaknesses across the boardorincertainplacesthatwecanmitigate, the use of digital tools could aid with enhancingtheworkforce Youcanusethat
for wargaming and calibration for various conditions that are impactful for the abilitytoprovidesupportinconflict.Consider howweperformandhowwe’reperforming in competition versus conflict.”
Simerly highlighted elements for improvedagencyperformance.Toachieve prime organizational performance, DLA should focus on improving resource forecastingtobetterestimateneeds optimizing processes to aid performance measurement and decision-making and automating manual tasks with digital solutions to facilitaterapidexecutionofglobalmissions, he said.
“We have an upcoming transformation summit that will allow us to put together our collective thinking to refine and form frameworks Wehavetoconstantlyrespond to change during mission execution. We have our vision within the strategy that includes three key words: agile, adaptive, and resilient, said Simerly DLA is agile for responding to changing environments and adaptive for learning, growth and transformation, while being resilient to meet the challenges of the future, he added.
Simerly noted that nobody can do what DLA does However, he added, effective service to the warfighter also requires a solid staff focused on taking care of each otherandprovidingopportunitiesforevery memberoftheDLAteamtomaximizetheir potential.
Simerly’s visit also consisted of the recognition of three DLA Energy employees He presented director’s coins to Quality Technical Directorate Chemist Joseph Plair, Business Process Support Directorate Demand/Supply Chain Analyst Toka Trau-Massey, and Direct Delivery Fuels Contracting Officer Lawrence Watson for their stellar contributions to the DLA and DLAEnergymissioninsupportofthewarfighter As the mid-year AOP review concluded, Simerly commended DLA Energy leaders for the optimistic event atmosphere “When I come to DLA Energy, positive energy is coming from this and is evident,” he said. “I appreciate what you do to energizeyourteammatestobringpositivequalities to our performance in the workplace and to our workforce.”
information operations command
CourtesyStory
780th Military Intelligence Brigade (Cyber)
FORT BELVOIR, Va After more than two decades of supporting the mission in the information advantage domain, the U.S. Army’s 1st Information Operations Command(1stIO)officiallycaseditscolors today in an inactivation ceremony here in the Thurman Auditorium at Humphrey Hall,May8.
Lt Gen. Maria B. Barrett, commanding general,U.S.ArmyCyberCommand(ARCYBER) presided over the ceremony, along withCol.WillieRodney,thecommanderof 1stIO,andCommandSgt.Maj.NaomiSmith, thebrigade’sseniorenlistedleader Fellow 1st IO and Land Information WarfareActivity(LIWA)SoldiersandCivilians pastandpresent families andArmy seniorleaders allgatheredtocommemorate the legacy of the unit that has stood at the forefront of information warfare since its activationin2002.
“Formorethantwodecades,theSoldiers and leaders of 1st IO have been at the forefront of information warfare, adapting to every challenge and shaping the Army’s cybercapabilities Theircontributionshave been instrumental in securing our nation’s interests in an ever-changing battlefield,” said Lt Gen. Barrett. “As we transition into the next era of Multi-Domain Operations, we carry forward the lessons learned and theexpertisehonedby1stIO,ensuringthat our cyber forces remain agile, resilient, and readyforthechallengesahead.”
Since 2002, 1st IO has provided forces to synchronize information capabilities and prepare forces to resist adversary informationwarfarewhileprovidingspecializedIO training to enable Army and Joint forces to achieve information advantage The unit’s missionconstantlyevolvedasthelandscape of the battlefield has changed, requiring 1st IO to adapt to meet emerging threats and shapetheArmy’sinformationwarfarecapabilities
The decision to deactivate 1st IO comes as part of a broader transformation across ARCYBER,aimedatconsolidatingcapabilitiesandaligningwithMulti-DomainOperations(MDO)by2030
“Change will inevitably come. You can fight it and become irrelevant, or you can understand it and influence it to achieve desired outcomes that still fits the vision,” statedCol.Rodney
Though the colors were cased, leaders emphasizedthatthespiritandmissionof1st IO will live on in the Army’s ongoing cyber andinformationoperationsefforts
“Theinactivationofthecommandmeans the Army is turning a page It doesn’t mean whatthecommandhasdoneisnotstillrelevant, it just means we are going to do it a different way. 1st IO and IO writ large were createdbecausetheArmydidn’tknowhow tointegratenon-kineticsintothefight,”said
Col. Rodney “The rise of MDO demands the Army integrate the capabilities that are executed in domains other than air land, and sea are in incorporated in the scheme of maneuver and the overall operations process. The need for IO is not going away withthecommand;rather,theArmyisforcingittobeintegratedthroughouttheservice and its forces Overall, it’s a step toward wherewe’vealwayswanted/neededtogo.”
Thecasingofthecolorsmarkstheofficial conclusionofthecommands’mission,with elements and personnel being reassigned to continue their work under new organizational structure to continue the mission. The inactivation marked a pivotal moment
inArmyhistoryasthecommandtransitions its mission sets and talent to support new information superiority units aligned to MDO2030objectives
The Army’s establishment of TIADs (Theater Information Advantage Detachment) represents a transformation in the way the Army presents information forces tocommanders
1stIOCommandUnitHistory
1991 ConceptbeginsduringGulfWar 1995 Headquarters Department of the Army activated LIWAA under U.S. Army IntelligenceandSecurityCommand
1996 Gen.ReimerissuesIOstrategy
2002 1stIOactivated
2003—2025 Field Support Teams deployedtosupportCombatantCommands
2011 —ARCYBER assumes Operational Control
2015 Cyberredteammissionsexpand
2021 Reassignment of 1st IO to
ARCYBER
2024 ArmyStructureInactivationorder issued
2025 Theater Information Advantage Detachments
References
Alvarez, K. (2024, October 22). Army Cyber Command leaders outline Theater Information Detachment concept. U.S. Army Retrieved from https://www.army. mil/article/280728/army_cyber_command_ leaders_outline_theater_information detachment_concept.
Alvarez, K. (2024, September 17). Active Army’s only Information Operations Commandpreparesforfuturestand-down, U.S. Army. Retrieved from https://www army.mil/article/279672/active_armys_ only_information_operations_command_ prepares_for_future_stand_down.
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The Flagship welcomes submissions from ourreaders online. Pleasesubmiteventshere: www.militarynews.com/users/admin/calendar/event/ Pleasesubmitnewsandphotoshere: www.militarynews.com/norfolk-navy-flagship/submit_news/
Dive Into Your Future at Weld It, Build It, Sail It!
Nauticus and RMTS’s Maritime
PressRelease
NORFOLK, Va Nauticus and the RegionalMaritimeTrainingSystem(RMTS)
are proud to present “Weld It Build It Sail
It—A Reimagined Maritime Careers Festival” on Sunday, May 18 from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.atNauticusindowntownNorfolk.This vibrant,family-friendlyeventwillbringthe waterfront to life with interactive exhibits, recruiters,hands-ondemonstrationsandan arrayofengagingactivitiesforallages
With 14 maritime partners actively recruiting on-site the festival is designed to highlight the wide range of careers in HamptonRoads’growingmaritimeindustry. Attendeeswillbeabletospeaktorecruiters representingmaritimeemployersandlearn about educational opportunities with area workforcetrainingprograms
“Nauticus is revolutionizing our region’s maritime future with cutting-edge exhibits and programming,” declared Stephen Kirkland, executive director of Nauticus “This groundbreaking festival doesn’t just highlight maritime career opportunities; it transforms our waterfront into a showcase of innovation through immersive exhibits, hands-on demonstrations and family experiences We’veengineeredaneventthatwill captivateminds,cultivatestalentandcreates lastingmemories—allwhilecelebratingour community’smaritimeheritage.”
Theall-dayfestivalwillinclude:
Checking out live demonstrations and talksfrommaritimeprofessionals
Storytelling and coloring books for children,makingtheeventfunandeducational foreventheyoungestvisitors
Offering a variety of delicious eats for purchasefromthreelocalfoodtrucks
Enjoying live music and entertainment throughouttheday
Access to Nauticus’ new state-of-theart interactive exhibits and the historic BattleshipWisconsin
Presented by RMTS, a program of the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, with additional support from the Virginia Maritime Association, this event is designed to engagestudents,families,jobseekers,veterans and the broader community interested in learning more about the exciting and essential careers that power the region’s maritimesector
“WeldIt,BuildIt,SailItisn’tjustconnecting people with jobs—it’s igniting passions, cultivatingtomorrow’sleadersandstrengthening our region’s economic backbone,” declared Shawn Avery, President and CEO of the Workforce Council. “This event will opendoorsandtransformlives.””
Admission is just $1 when purchased online in advance or $5 at the door Tickets and full event details are available now at https://nauticus.org/maritime-careers-festival/
About Nauticus: Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown Norfolk, Virginia, offer-
PressRelease
WILLIAMSBURG, Va The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums, along with sevenvisitingfifeanddrumunits,willcelebrate the tradition of military music during Drummer’sCall,May16-17.
A mainstay of Colonial Williamsburg’s Fifes&Drumsprogramfornearly20years Drummer’s Call highlights the nation’s military and musical heritage by bringing togethergroupsperformingvariousperiods of music including the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. Experiencethisuniquemusicalgenreupcloseand inperson,andcelebratethemusicianswho keepthetraditionalivetoday AllDrummer’s Calleventsarefreeandopentothepublic The weekend begins with “Successful Campaign, aneveningoftraditional,patriotic military music performed by the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums Senior CorpsandMiddlesexCountyVolunteersat 7:30 p.m. on Friday, May 16, at the Charlton Stage, on the east end of the Historic Area neartheCapitol. On Saturday, May 17 from 12:30 2:30 p.m., The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums will lead visiting corps in a Grand March and Review from the Capitol down DukeofGloucesterStreettoMarketSquare
The musicians will congregate behind the Courthousewhereeachgroupwillperform Participatinggroupsinclude: 1stMichiganColonialFifeandDrum Corps
CivilWarFieldMusic1stPennsylvania PRVC
ColonialWilliamsburgFifes&Drums Alumni
ColonialWilliamsburgFifes&Drums
FieldMusickoftheAmerican Revolution
FifesandDrumsofYorkTown
GuilfordCourthouseFifes&Drum Corps
MiddlesexCountyVolunteersFifes& Drums
Drummer’s Call concludes with the Williamsburg Military Tattoo, a torch-lit
Careers Festival
ing a unique form of experiential learning forallages Throughinteractiveexhibitsand STEMtoSternprogramming,Nauticususes the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing centerandSchoonerVirginiatotellthestory of the maritime environment, industry and the military The Nauticus Foundation is the nonprofit, 501(c)(3) that supports the missionandactivitiesofNauticus Nauticus’ missionistobenefitthecommunitythrough education,impactfulexperiencesandsharing access to maritime resources For more information,visitwww.nauticus.org
About Regional Maritime Training System: Led by the Hampton Roads
Workforce Council (HRWC), the Regional Maritime Training System (RMTS) is a collaborative coalition of businesses, training providers, educational institutions and communityorganizationsworkingtogether toenhanceandgrowthepipelineoftalentin theHamptonRoadsmaritimeindustry The serviceareascoveredbytheHRWCincludes 27 independent localities in Southeastern Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina,withatotalof1.9millionresidents For more information, visit the RMTS website: https://maritimejobsva.com/about/.
About Hampton Roads Workforce Council: Established by the Hampton
Roads Workforce Development Board, the Hampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC) oversees federally funded workforcedevelopmentprogramsforalllocalities in the Hampton Roads region. The HRWC provides strategic workforce development solutions designed to assist businesses in accessing qualified workers and job seekers in search of suitable job openings and trainingopportunitiestobolstertheirearningpotential.Tolearnmore,visittheHRWC website:https://www.theworkforcecouncil org/about-us/
march down Duke of Gloucester Street at 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, featuring the ColonialWilliamsburgFifes&Drumsjoined bythevisitingunits Formoreinformation,visitwww.colonialwilliamsburg.org/discover/preserving-thepast/fifes-drums/ Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums: Foundedin1958,theColonialWilliamsburg Fifes&DrumsperformintheHistoricArea frommid-FebruarythroughDecemberand during special programs observing major
holidaysorevents Thegroupalsoperforms in prestigious events outside of Williamsburg such as gubernatorial inaugurations, international military tattoos and parades such as the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade The Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drumsarecomprisedofyouthfromthelocal community aged 10—18 Students who are currently in 4th grade can apply for the fall 2025recruitclassiftheyresideinJamesCity orYorkcountiesortheCityofWilliamsburg.
to be able to race cars on the weekend So, it’s so much bigger than just that weekend. I think that’s the most special point of the Coke600weekend.”
BubbaWallace No 23,23XI
“I think NASCAR is probably the top sport that gives back to the military and honors our military in a fantastic way, going above and beyond for those who have made the ultimatesacrifice Forustobeabletorepresent a family name, a fallen soldier is very humblingforsure.”
ColeCuster No 41,HaasFactoryTeam
“Oh, it means a ton. I think that one of the coolest things that we do in NASCAR is really honoring the military and getting to see those families at the racetrack, and it’s definitelyareallyspecialweekendwhenever wehavetohonorthemilitarymembers.”
RickyStenhouseJr No 47,HyakMotorsports
“To have a fallen hero on our windshield at the Coke 600 is a great feeling Being able to meet the families that come to the racetrack,hostthem,letthemknowweappreciatethesacrificethattheygaveasafamilyto our country and if we could win with them there,itwouldbesocool.Sothat’swhatwe’ll tryanddo.”
AlexBowman No.48,HendrickMotorsports
“That’s always just super meaningful. You want to win every week, but just having somebody’s name on your car like that meansalot.Alotoftimes,thefamilyisthere, or you get to meet the family, or at least talk tothefamilybeforetheraceanditjustkind of brings things into perspective. It kind of just makes the whole event a little more meaningful.”
CodyWare No 52,RickWareRacing
“I think it’s really just an incredible experience to be able to see families and loved
ones of people who have died in service of the country To be able to have them have not just an enjoyable experience but also a time that they see that people are recognizing the sacrifice made by their family member.”
CarsonHocevar No 77,SpireMotorsports
“It means the most seeing the family’s reaction. We have ties to it but being able to bring in the family and see them care so much, just to see their name on the car that wedriveeverysingleday,themtocomeinto ourworldandbeappreciative,andcarethat theirnamesonthatcar,itmeansalottome.”
Tickets & special offer for military personnel:
Fans can purchase Coca-Cola 600 weekend tickets online at www.charlottemotorspeedway.com or call 1-800-455-FANS (3267).Kids12andundergetinallweekend forjust$10.
GOVXisthrilledtoofferexclusive,special
pricing on select NASCAR tickets for you andyourfamily Thisspecialofferisreserved for our heroes—Military personnel, First Responders(Firefighters EMS EMTs),Law Enforcement, Teachers, and other Government Service personnel. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience thethrillofNASCARatafractionofthecost. Verify your eligibility today through GOVX and secure your tickets! (online at https:// offers.govx.com/event/offers/)
Get the latest news!
Fans can connect with Charlotte Motor SpeedwayandgetthelatestnewsbyfollowingonXandInstagram,orbecomingaFacebook fan Keep up with all the latest news and information with the Charlotte Motor Speedwaymobileapp
The Norfolk Green Festival is Thursday May 15 - Sunday, May 18.
In case you can’t get your fill of Grecian goodness this weekend, our own Greek Flagship contributor extraordinaire and MC of the Festival Yiorgo, shares 2 of his favorite family recipes.
Hello friends! Here are two of my all time favorite Greekdishesthatmymother,Godresthersoul,usedto make for me The first is Stuffed Tomatoes or Domates Yemistes in Greek. This recipe from the Hellenic Women’s Club of Norfolk by Mrs. J.N. Boogades come veryclosetomymother’srecipe
StuffedTomatoes/DomatesYemistes
6 servings
Ingredients:
12largetomatoes
1cuprice
2poundsgroundchuck
2springonions chopped
1cupchoppedmint
2clovesgarlic,minced
½teaspoonoregano
1cupoliveoil,divided
1cupchoppedparsley
2tablespoonssugar
Saltandpeppertotaste
Directions:
Cut off tops of tomatoes and scoop out pulp with a teaspoon.Savethepulpandthetopsforuselater. Inaskillet,brownonionsandgarlicina½cupoil,add meat, parsley, mint, oregano, salt and pepper to taste. Cookuntilthemeatisbrowned.
In a saucepan, bring to a boil the tomato pulp, rice, sugar, salt and pepper and simmer for 15 minutes. Add tothemeatmixture.
In a large baking dish, add one cup of water and ½ acupofoil.Placescooped-outtomatoesintothedish Filltomatoeswithmeatmixture.Afterfilling,makea well in each filled tomato and add ½ a teaspoon of oil. Addtopsandbakeina350-degreeovenforonehour
Thesecondrecipeisafavoritedessertthatmymother used to make for me Yogurt Cake or Yiaourtopita in Greek. Its texture is very soft and similar to that of a sponge cake and drizzled with a light syrup Her recipe is very close again to the one in the Hellenic Women’s ClubofNorfolkbyMrs GeorgeC.Yeonas
YogurtCake/Yiaourtopita
Yields 1 cake
Cake:
2½cupsconfectioner’ssugar
2½cupsflour
1cupGreekyogurt
1teaspoonbakingsoda
4eggs 2teaspoonsbakingpowder Rindandjuiceof1lemon Syrup: 3½cupsofsugar 4cupsofwater 1teaspoonvanilla 1lemonslice
To make the syrup: Combine all ingredients in a saucepanandsimmerfor25to30minutes
To make the cake: Beat sugar and yogurt together, addeggsandbeatforafewminutes Addlemonjuiceand rind. Mix in sifted flour baking powder and soda. Pour into a greased 10x14 inch pan and bake at 375 degrees for45minutes Pourhotsyrupovercakewhenremoved fromtheoven.Letcoolandcutinsquares.
This refreshing Greek salad can be enjoyed as a side or a meal
Quick and simple meals are the name of the game when warm weather beckons and spending time in the kitchen is less attractive. Salads are best during the midsummer when they can be comprised of fresh and ripe ingredients plucked right from the garden. What’s more, salad can be a side dish or even the main meal if fortifiedwithalittleproteinandsomebread. This recipe for “Authentic Greek Salad” from “Clueless in the Kitchen: Cooking for Beginners” (Firefly Books)byEvelynRaabisideal.
AuthenticGreekSalad
Serves 4 to 6
4mediumtomatoes,cutinto½-inchchunks
1seedlessEnglishcucumber,cutinto½-inchchunks
1smallredonion,diced
⅓cupZorbatheGreekDressing(seebelow)
4ouncesfetacheese crumbled(about1cup)
½cupblackolives(kalamataorotherbrine-cured onesarebest)
Saltandblackpepper,totaste
Inalargebowl,tosstogetherthetomatoes,cucumberandonion.Addthedressingandtosstomix.Sprinkleinthefetacheeseandolives,andtossgently. Tastethesalad,adjusttheseasoningwithadditional saltandpepperifyouthinkitneedsitandserveimmediately ZorbatheGreekDressing
½cupoliveoil
3tablespoonslemonjuice
1teaspooncrumbleddriedoregano
½teaspoonsalt
¼teaspoonblackpepper
In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until combined. Makes ¾ cup dressing - enough for a coupleofbowlsofGreeksalad.Youcankeepanyleftover dressinginthefridgeforaboutaweek.
Yiorgo and his grandsonJohnny at the 2023 NorfolkGreekFestival (PHOTOCOURTESYOFYIORGO)
France General Hospital,Brumaire,St Kitts and Nevis,March 27
Military Nurses: An inspiring and extraordinary ready force
BySusanOrsega
TRICARE Communications
FALLS CHURCH, Va Military nurses haveanunwaveringcommitmenttoadvancing our health and wellness to ensure that everyservicememberisfittofight,thatour medicalteamsaretrainedandready,andthat our families receive the care they deserve. Thisweek,wehonorthestrengthanddedication of the extraordinary professionals who serve both our country and warfighterswithunwaveringcourage Whetherthey are on the frontlines, in field hospitals or at military medical centers around the world, their commitment to care under the most challengingconditionsinspiresusall.
The power of nurses
Nurses are a powerful force for many reasons They advocate for their patients, they take on multiple roles to deliver care, and they break barriers to work across disciplines and teams—always keeping the patientfrontandcenter
Roughly 30 million people around the world—including our active duty service members of all ranks National Guard and Reserve members, civilians and contractors—dedicate their lives to nursing Just over 17,000 nurses, military and civilian, serveeverydayacrosstheglobeinourmilitary health system. Even after decades of servingasanursemyself,Iamstillinspired bytheirresilience,depthofknowledge,and steadfast commitment to advancing the healthofothers
Nurses advocate for their patients
One of the many ways nurses support our health is by constantly advocating for patients Whether they are talking to a new Marine who has questions about her medications or is struggling to make an appointment, or a veteran who needs a
compassionate ear to talk through his diagnosis that he may not fully understand, nurses keep our best interest at heart and calmly guide us through often difficult and unchartedterritory
One such nurse is Bianca Rodriguez, a breast nurse navigator at Brooke Army Medical Center She arranges surgery acts as a go-between for the patient and his or herprovider andhelpstoarrangetransportationtoandfromappointments
Nurses like Rodriguez support each and every one of us with compassionate care from the moment we arrive at a healthcare facility, to the moment we leave and during recovery They heal not only physicalwoundsbutcanbuildtrusttomendinternal, personal challenges that often remain hiddenfromtheoutsideworld.
Nurses care for patients through multiple roles
Nurses all around the world serve many differentroles,bothinandoutsideofhealth care. In addition to patient care and clinicalrolestheyalsoserveinresearchlabsand classroomsaseducatorsandmentors evaluatedatatoimprovepatientcaresystems,and leadtheoptimizationoftheDefenseHealth Agency With their expertise and knowledge, nurses often respond to emergencies when they are least expected. In April, U.S. Army Maj. Joshua Goldberg, the Department of EducationchiefatEvansArmyCommunity Hospital,withthehelpofhiswife Kaylanda Pinkerton,thechiefnursefortheMountain Post Birthing Center, was recognized with the Soldier’s Medal for heroism during a crisis When gunshots rang out near their son’sfootballgame,theyimmediatelysprang into action. They rushed to the parking lot where they found a victim with multiple gunshotwounds Withouthesitation GoldbergimmediatelybeganCPRuntiltheparamedicsarrived.Thisisjustoneexamplethat shows the readiness of our nurses to act in
theinterestofothersatamoment’snotice Nurses wield an inspirational power to collaborate
When I joined the United States Public Health Service, one of the first things I noticed was the unique power of nurses to collaborate across disciplines It’s truly an art. Transcending traditional boundary, nurseswillstopatnothingtoensurepatients receivetheutmostcarewhentheyneedit.
I saw this firsthand last month when I visited military hospitals and clinics in Japan. There, supply chains face lengthy logistical hurdles with the procurement of medical supplies pharmaceuticals and equipment requiring more extensive lead time compared to stateside facilities What struck me most during my visit was the team’s collaboration to overcome these challenges Not only have the medical staff within the military hospitals and clinics successfully built relationships within the Japanese healthcare system, but they also workwithU.S.AirForce,U.S.Navy andU.S. Army medical personnel to provide seamless care. This collaboration led to partnerships between the joint neonatal intensive careunitoperationsandrelatedevacuations between the United States Naval Hospital Okinawa-Japan and the Naval Hospital Yokosuka.
I am not the only one who noticed the team’s innovation and collaboration; the hospitals’ compassionate and innovative nurses received a DAISY Award—an internationally recognized professional award that celebrates nurses who have made profounddifferencesinthelivesofothers Lean-in with thought and curiosity, and do not be shy
We are in a dynamic moment in history With lessons-learned from deployments
domestically and internationally, new artificialintelligencetoolstodeliveroptimized health care, and an ever-changing digital landscape streamlining our processes, we haveanopportunitytolean-inwiththought and curiosity To my fellow nurses: Do not be shy. Even in times of uncertainty, situations that may seem uncomfortable are not designed to frustrate us; they are designed tohelpusgrow
Our shared responsibility to support the warfighter has never been more critical. From providing care in the Pacific Northwest to the most remote regions of the Indo-Pacific, our responsibility to support, strengthen, and sustain our warfighters’ health and readiness to fight knows no boundaries We must remain ready to act andcontinuetoprovidethehighest-quality carewheneverandwhereverweareneeded One of our goals as nurses is to create a world where good health is in the reach of everyperson.Bybuildingonthecorepower of patient advocacy, unwavering care, and collaborationengrainedinourcraftbythose whocamebeforeus,Iamconfidentthatwe willreachourgoal. Toallnursesandtheirfamiliesaroundthe world,thankyou.
(Editor’s Note: Susan Orsega is a career nurseandretiredU.S.PublicHealthService Commissioned Corps rear admiral. She began her career with the USPHS in 1989 andhasdeployedtonumeroushealthemergencies and humanitarian missions across the United States and abroad From 2016 to 2019 she served as chief nurse officer for the USPHS and then as the CommissionedCorpsdirectorfrom2019to2021.In 2021, she served as the acting U.S. Surgeon General until March and then became the senioradvisortotheAssistantSecretaryfor Health. She is a graduate of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences SchoolofNursing.)
