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IN THIS ISSUE U.S. Navy establishes Robotic and Autonomous Systems Warﬁghting Development Center Page A6

WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2026) Vice Adm. Brad Collins, incoming commander, Navy Installations Command, delivers remarks during a change of command ceremony at the National Museum of the United States Navy at the Washington Navy Yard, Sept. 24, 2026. Seated behind him are Vice Adm. Scott Gray, outgoing commander, and Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby. During the ceremony, Collins assumed command of CNIC, taking responsibility for the Navy’s 71 installations and worldwide shore infrastructure. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY CHIEF MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST JANWEB B. LAGAZO)

Vice Adm. Brad Collins takes the reins of the Navy Shore Enterprise By Coleen San Nicolas-Perez COMMANDER, NAVY INSTALLATIONS COMMAND

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Vice Adm. Brad Collins assumed command of Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) from Vice Adm. Scott Gray during a change of command ceremony held at the Washington Navy Yard, Sept. 24, 2026. ViceChiefofNavalOperationsAdm.James Kilby presided over the ceremony, honoring Gray’s leadership of the Navy’s Shore Enterprise and welcoming Collins.

“The Navy sustains and projects maritime operations from its shore installations, and our ability to win in combat depends on what happens ashore,” said Kilby. “It’s not just about platforms. As the CNO says, ‘Our installations are where we build our most important weapon system — the Sailor.’ For CNIC, taking care of Sailors, Marines, and their families is not a collateral duty; it’s what CNIC does every day.” The ceremony marked the culmination of a three-year tour for Gray, who reorganized the Shore Enterprise, established CNIC as the Shore Type Commander (TYCOM) and

improved Quality of Service for Sailors and families. Across a $9.5 billion annual infrastructure portfolio, Gray modernized shore management through requirements-based budgeting and data analytics, while leading the integration of more than 10,700 billets across public works departments, defense fuel support points, and the Navy Petroleum Office. Operationally, he aligned installations directly with maritime forces by establishing Task Force Shore within the Paciﬁc Fleet Maritime Operations Center and fortifying strategic posture worldwide from advancing the AUKUS part-

nership at NSA Stirling to executing major infrastructure investments in Guam, Spain, and homeports across the ﬂeet. Gray placed equal emphasis on Navy Quality of Service, championing substantial improvements to living standards and family support. Under his leadership, CNIC funded vital unaccompanied housing and ﬁtness center upgrades, and delivered free Wi-Fi to barracks and galleys. Gray also oversaw a 500 percent expansion of the Military Childcare in Your Neighborhood-PLUS program, See COLLINS on Page A2

Vice Adm. Doug Perry passes the watch of U.S. 2nd Fleet and NATO’s Joint Force Command Norfolk, emphasizes continued vigilance in the Atlantic Courtesy Story COMMANDER, U.S. 2ND FLEET

NORFOLK, Va. — More than 500 distinguished guests, international military representatives, and family members attended the NATO’s Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFCNF) Assumption of Command and U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) Change of Command Ceremony aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) on Sept. 24. The day marked a historic military transition as Vice Adm. Doug Perry was relieved as the commander of both JFCNF and C2F, culminating in a profound retirement ceremony recognizing 37 years of honorable service to the nation. Senior U.S. military leadership in attendance included U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe; U.S. Navy Adm. Daryl Caudle, Chief of Naval Operations; and U.S. Navy Adm. Karl Thomas, U.S. Fleet Forces Command. “Today, we acknowledge the accomplishments of two distinct commands with separate missions,” said Vice Adm. Perry. “The missions [of 2nd Fleet and JFC Norfolk] converge in the same strategic space through the western Atlantic through the Greenland, Iceland, United Kingdom gap and into the high north, the Arctic. Together, these commands ensure the United States and allied advantage in peace time is preserved

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 24, 2026) —U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Doug Perry, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F) and Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFCNF), passes the JFCNF ﬂag to U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander, NATO Supreme Allied Europe, during the JFCNF Assumption of Command and C2F Change of Command Ceremony held aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 24, 2026. During the ceremony, UK Army Gen. Nick Perry assumed command of JFCNF, and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Martin Muckian assumed the role as acting C2F commander. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS

and the rules-based international order as well; to sustain our readiness to respond in crisis and to defend, fight, and win in combat.” The NATO portion of the ceremony proceeded first. For the first time in the command’s history, the blue-and-gold flag of JFCNF was passed to a European ally, UK Army Gen. Nick Perry. Gen. Perry’s assumption of command represented a powerful and symbolic leap forward for NATO’s burden-sharing and transatlantic integration. “I want to thank Doug Perry for his leadership,” Gen. Nick Perry said. “Under his stewardship Joint Force Command Norfolk has matured, strengthened its relationships across the alliance, and developed into a vital element of NATO’s collective security.” Gen. Perry briefly reflected on the last 250 years of the United States’ history, from independence to global leadership, and commented on the ceremony’s notable location. “There is no greater example of both the generosity and the awesome military power [of the United States] as we are hosted today on the USS Nimitz,” Perry stressed. As the ceremony shifted focus from the JFCNF assumption of command, Adm. Thomas reflected on Vice Adm. Perry’s tour as the dual-hatted commander with an emphasis on C2F.

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NAVAL STATION NORFOLK Sept. 21, 2026, — Arleigh Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55) departs Naval Station Norfolk to begin operations in support of its scheduled deployment, Sept. 21, 2026. Stout is named after Rear Adm. Herald F. Stout, who distinguished himself as the commanding officer of the destroyer USS Claxton during World War II. Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (SURFLANT) is responsible for manning, training, and equipping assigned surface forces and shore activities, ensuring a capable and combat-ready force to support U.S. national interests. The SURFLANT force consists of more than 60 warships and 30 shore commands. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN APPRENTICE DAVID P. MAPES)

USS Stout departs Norfolk for deployment operations By Keith Goodsell COMMANDER, NAVAL SURFACE FORCE ATLANTIC

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK, Va. — The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55) departed Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 21, 2026, to begin deployment operations. The warship’s departure comes after months of training, maintenance, and certi-

ﬁcation events. “The crew of USS Stout trained relentlessly to ensure our warship is prepared to execute prompt and sustained operations,” said Cmdr. Kevin Taylor, commanding officer, USS Stout (DDG 55). “We built a culture of sustained readiness and resilience and are fully prepared to sail forward, defend our nation’s interests, and execute our mission at the absolute highest standard of excellence.” USS Stout is a multi-mission surface

combatant capable of conducting anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare operations. Commissioned in 1994, Stout is the ﬁfth warship of the Arleigh Burke class and belongs to the class’s baseline Flight I conﬁguration. The warship is named after World War II Navy Cross recipient Rear Admiral Herald F. Stout, who heroically commanded the Fletcher class destroyer USS Claxton (DD 571) during the Battle of Bougainville.

Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic is responsible for manning, training, and equipping assigned surface forces and shore activities, ensuring a capable and combatready force to support U.S. national interests. The SURFLANT force consists of more than 66 warships and 34 shore commands. For more information about SURFLANT, visit Facebook.com/SURFLANT or http:// www.surﬂant.usff.navy.mil/.

COLLINS from Page A1

adding 10,000 community childcare fee assistance spaces and reducing the Navy’s overall childcare waitlist by nearly 5,000 children. Gray will report to the Pentagon to serve as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Navy Sustainment, leading the newly established office to integrate and synchronize capabilities. “As I transition to my new role as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Navy Sustainment, I am taking the lessons of the Shore with me to the Pentagon,” said Gray. “I know what it looks like when the Shore is under-resourced and the friction it causes. In this new capacity, our work together will continue—unifying our logistics, infrastructure, and base operating capabilities so that we can better support the fleet, empower the industrial base, and build on the momentum we have created across the Shore Enterprise.” Collins assumes leadership of CNIC bringing region and operational shore leadership experience,havingpreviouslyservedasCNIC Chief of Staff as well as commander of Navy Region Northwest; Navy Region Europe, Africa, Central; and Navy Region Hawaii. “It is truly an honor and a privilege to assume command of CNIC,” said Collins. “CNIC’s regions and installations provide the foundation that enables our fleet, supports our Sailors and families, and ensures the Navy is prepared to meet future demands. My focus will be on delivering reliable, responsivesupporttothepeopleandcommandsthat depend on us.” Collins underscored his commitment to enterprise continuity, resilience, and operational focus. “As we move forward, we will stay focused on strengthening that foundation in practical, meaningful ways,” Collins added. “We will continue improving how our regions and installations deliver support to the fleet, the

WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2026) Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James Kilby delivers remarks during the Commander, Navy Installations Command change of command ceremony at the National Museum of the United States Navy at the Washington Navy Yard, Sept. 24, 2026. Kilby presided over the ceremony, honoring Vice Adm. Scott Gray’s leadership of the Navy’s Shore Enterprise and welcoming Vice Adm. Brad Collins as the new commander. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY CHIEF MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST JANWEB B. LAGAZO)

ﬁghter, and the family. That means staying close to the mission, understanding where friction exists, and working across the enterprise to solve problems in ways that make a real difference at the deckplate level.” Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) is responsible for worldwide U.S.

Navy Shore installation management, designing and developing integrated solutions for sustainment and development of Navy shore infrastructure as well as quality of life programs. CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions, 71 installations, and approximately 63,000 employees who are focused on warﬁghting

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Managing Editor | PO1 Cody D. Beam 757-322-2853 | cody.d.beam.mil@us.navy.mil Graphic Designer | Teresa Walter teresa.walter@virginiamedia.com

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The Flagship® is published by Flagship, LLC., a private firm in no way connected with the Department of Defense (DOD) or the United States Navy, under exclusive written contract with Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the paper, including advertisements, are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DOD, or the Department of the Navy (DON). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DOD; DON; Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, LLC. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Department of Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic. Stories may be submitted via email to news@flagshipnews.com. The Flagship® is published every Thursday by Flagship, LLC., whose offices are located at 804 Greenbrier Circle, Suite C, Chesapeake, VA 23320.

and manning, training, and equipping the Shore to fight and win. Navy installations are warfighting platforms essential to every fleet operation. Learn more: http://www.cnic. navy.mil.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, October 1, 2026

From the classroom to the cockpit: Aviators bring STEM to Virginia Beach students ahead of Oceana Air Show By Petty Officer 2nd Class Julianna Lynch COMMANDER, NAVAL AIR FORCE ATLANTIC

Lt. Cmdr. Marty “Grouse” Wilson, Lt. Cmdr. Steven “Shaft” Nicklaus, Lt. Sky “Johann” Danskin, and champion aerobatic pilot Aaron Deliu exchanged flight duties for time in the school hallways, allowing students to get a close look at the people who will soon be flying overhead. Although the cool jets caught their attention, the visits were about more than airplanes. The students listened to the aviators speak on on the science of flying, aircraft operations, and how STEM — science, technology, engineering, and math — are involved in almost everything they do in the air. The aviators also described their experiences entering aviation, from the beginning to the education, training, and determination it took to reach the position they hold today. For the students, it was an opportunity to realize the route to the cockpit doesn’t begin with a flight suit; it can start right where they were sitting—in a classroom. “We get to show off what the F/A18 can do in the sky, but coming into the schools gives us a chance to show students what it takes to get there,” said Lt. Cmdr. Steven Nicklaus, F/A-18 Super Hornet pilot with the Rhino Demonstration Team. “Every pilot started somewhere, and for some of these kids, that sparkcouldstartrighthereintheirclassroom. If seeing us fly this weekend makes one of them look up and think, ‘I could do that,’ then we’ve done something pretty special.” The pilots urged the students to stay curious, ask questions, and keep working on what excited them. In turn, the students asked many of their own questions and learned about the requirements for becoming a pilot, what it’s like to fly high-performance aircraft, and how the lessons taught in elementary school can later become tools used thousands of feet in the air. Over the weekend, classroom conversations will get much louder. At the NAS Oceana Air Show, students will be able to see the principles of flight put into practice, with the F/A-18 Super Hornet Tactical Demonstration Team from Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, Deliu’s championship aerobatic display and performances by the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron the Blue Angels. “Being part of the NAS Oceana Air Show and having the opportunity to work alongside the Navy is awesome,” said Aaron Deliu, championship aerobatic pilot. “But getting into the schools and talking with the kids is really what it is all about. If we can spark that curiosity in even one student and get them excited about aviation, STEM, or chasing something they didn’t think was possible,

ABOVE: Members of the Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106 Rhino Demonstration Team and champion aerobatic pilot Aaron Deliu pose for a photo with ﬁfth-grade students in front of an F/A-18F Super Hornet during the NAS Oceana Air Show STEM Day at Naval Air Station Oceana. The event provided local students an up-close look at naval aviation while connecting classroom STEM concepts with real-world aviation careers. LEFT: Lt. Cmdr. Steven Nicklaus, left, and Lt. Sky Danskin, right, assigned to the “Gladiators” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106, and champion aerobatic pilot Aaron Deliu speak with students at John B. Dey Elementary School in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Sept. 16, 2026. The aviators shared their experiences in aviation, answered students’ questions and discussed the role science, technology, engineering and math play in ﬂight ahead of the 2026 NAS Oceana Air Show. (U.S. NAVY PHOTOS BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS JULIANNA LYNCH)

then that’s what it’s all about.” The aircraft’s aerodynamics and propulsion, as well as the effects of force, gravity, and speed and the math behind accurate maneuvering, will turn what students learn in their STEM lessons into something they can see, hear, and—when the jets roar by— perhaps feel. The school trips are part of NAS Oceana’s ongoing initiative to link naval aviation with the Hampton Roads community and encouragestudentstoconsidereducationand careers in STEM. Maybe the most important

lesson wasn’t some equation or an explanation of how an aircraft remains in the sky. Wilson, Nicklaus, Danskin and Deliu demonstrated to the students that there is no single perfect way of becoming an aviator since each of them had followed a different route to reaching the cockpit, it being education, perseverance and a willingness to keep on learning that had enabled them to get there. More than 8,000 students across Virginia Beach and Chesapeake elementary schools got a front-row seat to these stories. This

weekend, they’ll get a front-row seat to what all that work looks like in the sky. From September 18 to 20, the NAS Oceana Air Show will bring together military and civilian aviation to highlight the precision, teamwork, and technical skill involved in some of aviation’s most demanding performances. The jets will make students look up to the skies, but the aim is to show them how far what they are learning today can take them.

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ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Displays show simulated monitoring views of systems used to conduct training at U.S. Fleet Forces Command’s John “Bag” Hefti Global Live, Virtual and Constructive Operations Center during the facility’s opening day at Naval Air Station Oceana Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, Va., May 14, 2024. Utilized and maintained by technical agent Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona Division, the operations center specializes in live, virtual, constructive training, which combines real-world, in-person elements with virtual reality, simulation and other computer-generated technologies to enable service members to train like they ﬁght. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY NEIL MABINI)

U.S. Fleet Forces, NSWC Corona demo advanced LVC ﬂeet training capabilities By Staff Sgt. Joaquin Vasquez Duran NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE CENTER, CORONA DIVISION

Personnel from Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Corona Division, in coordination with U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFFC), hosted Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Daryl Caudle for a high-level capability demonstration at the Hefti Global Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) Operations Center in Dam Neck, Virginia, Aug. 27. The visit highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance synthetic and blended training architectures, connecting Sailors across ships and shore-based facilities to hone critical warﬁghting functions in tailored, high-

stakes operational scenarios. During the demonstration, leadership observed the integration of new capabilities into the Navy’s existing surface and air LVC training environments—marking a significant leap forward in multi-domain fleet training and operational readiness. “Our driving mission is to equip our forces withthehighestfidelitytrainingenvironment possible, ensuring that every critical action needed to win decisively in combat is fully mastered during fleet exercises,” said Kevin Altemara, USFFC virtual training program manager. “This breakthrough capability paves the way for significantly more complex, realistic training opportunities across the Fleet, representing the exceptional collabo-

rative work of NSWC Corona and the Naval Information Warfare Development Center.” By integrating various LVC tools, software programs and systems, LVC training provides the fleet with a common operational picture, allowing America’s warfighters to train like they fight. “I’m extremely proud of the collaborative team effort of our engineers and contractors,” said Sean Anderson, NSWC Corona’s LVC Director. “The new capabilities demonstrated to the CNO dramatically enhance the Navy’s multi-domain LVC training.” The event builds upon previous synthetic training demonstrations conducted for U.S. Fleet Forces Command and U.S. Pacific Fleet, reinforcing the Navy’s commitment

to advancing secure, realistic, and distributed combat training across all warfighting domains. NSWC Corona Division has provided analysis and assessment for the Navy since 1964. With expertise in gauging the Navy’s warfighting capability, NSWC Corona is a leader in data, analytics, visualizations, digital environments, engineering, and leveraging technology to bridge and integrate the Navy’s data silos—enabling informed decision-making by the warfighter. With more than 4,000 scientists, engineers, Sailors, technicians, and support staff, NSWC Corona is located in Norco, California, with two California detachments in Fallbrook and Seal Beach and personnel in 14 additional locations.

LEFT: Aboard USS Kearsarge Sept. 16, 2026, the commanding officer greets a Five Eyes member underscoring the commitment to shared learning, aligned maintenance practices, and strengthened naval interoperability. RIGHT: Naval Safety Command Executive Director, Scott Jones, walks alongside Five Eyes delegates aboard USS Kearsarge Sept. 16, 2026, underscoring the working group’s focus on shared maintenance challenges, uniﬁed safety standards and strengthened interoperability across all ﬁve allied navies. (PHOTOS BY PETTY OFFICER 1ST CLASS BENJAMIN DAVELLA)

Five nations work together to improve Navy safety

By Jason Ragucci NAVAL SAFETY COMMAND

NORFOLK, Va. — Naval safety representatives and exchange officers from across the Five Eyes (FVEYs) alliance convened at Naval Safety Command this week for a four-day working group focused on aligning operational safety, maintenance practices and organizational standards across partner navies. The visit brought together senior leaders and safety professionals from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. LEADERSHIP ADVOCACY AND SHARED MAINTENANCE CHALLENGES

Phil Wheadon, director of Naval Safety for the Royal New Zealand Navy, described the value of engaging directly with counterpart safety professionals throughout the Sept. 14—17 sessions. Wheadon emphasized that despite differences in ﬂeet size, all FVEYs nations face similar operational hazards and leadership challenges.

“We’re a much smaller navy, but it’s great to actually learn from other people’s experience and see the sorts of challenges that other people are dealing with,” said Wheadon. “There’s always a great tendency for the military to focus on operations … and trying to persuade leaders sometimes to take into account safety requires strong advocacy.” A highlight of the week included a visit to USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), where Wheadon met with the ship’s chief engineer to examine strategies for managing complex maintenance periods. As a former chief engineer himself, he noted the striking similarities between the United States and New Zealand engineering challenges. “It’s really fascinating to see the same sorts of issues USS Kearsarge are dealing with that are the same issues we deal with,” Wheadon said. “It’s great to see the bigger countries … treat smaller nations like New Zealand and Australia as equals.”

personnel exchange officer to the U.S. Navy and secretary for the FVEYs meeting, said this year’seventmarkedhisfourthworkinggroup. He highlighted the importance of standardizing workflows and establishing operational parity across the alliance. “We’re getting five navies together to collaborate … to come up with simple solutions to standardize work and make things equal,” said Newbury. “When we’re interoperable here, we can be interoperable at sea.” Newbury explained that unified standard operating procedures and shared tactical behaviors ensure all partner fleets operate on a common playing field during major multinational engagements such as RIMPAC and NATO exercises. “The main goal is to ensure everyone follows the same standards and SOPs so our navies can work together seamlessly.” The working group followed a detailed schedule that included trend analysis, technical discussions, ship visits and environmental STANDARDIZATION AND safety topics. These sessions provided deleINTEROPERABILITY gates with shared frameworks for improvRoyal Navy Lt. Cmdr. James Newbury, ing safety governance and aligning analytical

approaches across the alliance.

STRENGTHENING A UNIFIED SAFETY POSTURE

Across four days of collaboration, ship visits, technical discussions and strategic planning, the FVEYs Naval Safety Working Group reinforced the alliance’s commitment to unified standards, data analytics, shared operational learning, risk modeling and strengthened interoperability. By aligning safety practices and exchanging lessons learned, the five navies continue to build a common foundation that enhances readiness and ensures seamless cooperation during multinational operations. “Our allies and partners bring different perspectives, but we share the same responsibility: keeping our people safe and our fleets combat ready,” said Scott Jones, executive director, NAVSAFECOM. “When we learn together, we get better together — and that’s one line of effort for how we strengthen naval readiness across the entire alliance.”

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Explosive Ordnance Disposal Leadership Award winners announced for 2026 ery operation enabled her team to locate the crash site in under eight hours, a testament to the adaptability required to maintain a decisive advantage in complex environments. VIRGINIABEACH,Va.—Thecommander By developing new tactics for experimental of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command unmanned vessels and integrating with Naval (NECC) announced the recipients of the 2026 Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Leadership and Excellence awards, Sept. 14, recognizing three leaders who have profoundly impacted the community’s warfighting readiness. The annual awards honor an officer, a senior enlisted leader, and a training professional who exemplify the leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence of the nation’s maritime EOD force. The achievements of these individuals directly contribute to a more lethal and ready Navy, ensuring the fleet can fight and win. Lt. Cassandra R. Dooley, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 12, received the Rear Admiral Draper L. Kauffman Leadership Award. The award recognizes an outstanding officer who Special Warfare, she directly advanced the epitomizes the EOD ethos and excellence in Navy’s ability to field a ready, combat-credileadership. Dooley’s leadership was pivotal in ble force that deters adversaries and protects preparing her 30-person Expeditionary Mine the homeland. Countermeasures Company for demandEODCS David T. Medwedeff, from Exploing global missions. Her innovative use of sive Ordnance Disposal Training and Evaltowed-array sonar during an F/A-18 recov- uation Unit (EODTEU) 1, earned the Force

By Lt. Martin Carey EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE DISPOSAL GROUP TWO

PERRY

from Page A1

“Underhiscommand,2ndFleetrevitalized maritime homeland defense, from Vigilant Shield and Austere Challenge to Steadfast Defender, Operation NANOOK and Cutlass Fury, Doug ensured that our forces were constantly tested in the most demanding environments and under the most challenging of circumstances,” said Thomas. “You strengthened our alliances and ensured that any platform flying the American flag in the Atlantic was ready to fight and win.” Following the NATO transition, Rear Adm. Martin Muckian relieved Vice Adm. Perry as the acting C2F commander. With the official command transfers completed, the atmosphere in the hangar bay shifted to the deeply personal retirement ceremony for Vice Adm. Perry. The guest of honor, Adm. Caudle, reflected on Vice Adm. Perry’s leadership philosophy and service to the country. “His infectious energy has always been directed outward toward people. And that to me is the defining characteristic of Doug Perry as a leader,” said Caudle. “Doug never allowed rank to create distance between himself and his Sailors. It’s the people who generate combat power. Know your people, invest in them, challenge them, develop them, hold them to high standards and make sure they understand what they do matters. Doug

Master Chief Anthony L. Santino Leadership Award. This award honors a senior enlisted leader who embodies the principle that Sailors are the Navy’s decisive advantage. Facing manpower shortages, Medwedeff rallied 27 Chiefs to redesign the command’s training

model, enabling the simultaneous preparation of multiple units. His efforts ensured over 700 personnel across 21 EOD, diving, and special operations units were certiﬁed for operational employment. By prioritizing the development and mentorship of his Sailors, Medwedeff fostered a culture of accountabil-

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 24, 2026) — U.S. Navy Adm. Karl Thomas, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command; U.S. Air Force Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander, NATO Supreme Allied Europe; Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle; U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Doug Perry; UK Army Gen. Nick Perry, commander, Joint Force Command Norfolk (JFCNF); and U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Martin Muckian, acting commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet (C2F), cut the ceremonial cake at the conclusion of the JFCNF Assumption of Command and C2F Change of Command Ceremony held aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) at Naval Station Norfolk, Sept. 24, 2026. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS PIERCE LUCK)

has been living that philosophy for 37 years and people remember it.” During his ﬁnal remarks, Vice Adm. Perry reﬂected on this military career that began at the U.S. Naval Academy in 1989. He expressed deep gratitude for his parents who established a foundation for him at a young age. He thanked his family, friends, classmates, mentors, leaders and Sailors who have guided him and experienced the Navy journey alongside him. “When I look back at 37 years — chiefs, Sailors, commanders, generals, air marshals — I don’t think about anything but the people

and our experiences,” said Perry. “The people who raised me, people who taught me, challenged me, believed in me, and then stood the watch beside me, so we had that experience together. And most of all, I remember the Sailors and families who trusted me with the privilege of leading them … Every chapter of this journey, of my journey, carries your ﬁngerprints. “Today, I have the privilege of passing the watch. Ships will continue to sail. New Sailors will stand the watch and that’s exactly how it should be. Leadership is never about holding the watch forever. It’s about making a

ity and problem-solving, creating a stronger and more resilient enlisted force ready to lead in a warfighting environment. Lt. Howard E. Chunn, also assigned to EODTEU 1, received the Commander Kevin P. Childre Excellence Award for his profound impact on training. In a security environment where readiness is a warfighting imperative, Chunn led a 94-person department to overhaul seven unit-level training plans, aligning them with major combat operations requirements. His work expanded the command’s training capacity and restored valuable operational availability to fleet units. By establishing common training standards across both coasts, he ensured that every deploying EOD force is measured against the same high bar of lethality and proficiency. Chunn’s dedication to mentoring junior officers on tactical employment strengthens the very foundation of combat leadership, ensuring the next generation is prepared to fight and win. These leaders represent the core of the U.S. maritime dominance, demonstrating that the Navy’s strength is forged through the professionalism, innovation, and warfighting spirit of its people. For more information, visit https://www. necc.usff.navy.mil/eod/

difference while standing the watch and then preparing the next person to take it.” At the end of the ceremony, Master Chief InformationSystemsTechnicianLouisDeCesare recited “The Watch.” As the words of the poem echoed through the Nimitz’s hangar bay, Vice Adm. Perry’s daughter, U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Elle Perry, stepped forward to assist in the presentation. “For thirty-seven years, this Sailor has stood the watch,” DeCesare said. “Today we are here to say, Shipmate, the watch stands relieved. Relieved by those you have trained, guided, and led. Shipmate you stand relieved … we have the watch.” 2nd Lt. Perry rendered a salute to her father symbolizing a generational passing of the watch. The day marked both an end and a beginning — a passing of the watch ensures the waters of the Atlantic remain secure under the vigilant eyes of a united alliance. U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime ready forces to ﬁght across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied, and partner interests. For more U.S. 2nd Fleet news and photos, visit http://facebook.com/US2ndFleet, https://www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/, X - @ US2ndFleet, and https://www.linkedin.com/ company/commander-u-s-2nd-ﬂeet.

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UMGC has been designated as a CAE-CD by the NSA and as a CDFAE by DACCA.

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UMGC.EDU | 757-231-5666 UMGC is certified to operate in Virginia by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. University of Maryland Global Campus, 9625 Belvoir Road, Barden Education Center, Building 1017, Room 128, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Capt. Michael A. Sammataro assumes command of SUPSHIP Newport News By Telly B. Myles SUPERVISOR OF SHIPBUILDING NEWPORT NEWS

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — In a time-honored naval ceremony steeped in maritime tradition, Capt. Michael A. Sammataro, a native of Waterford, Connecticut, relieved Capt. Hannah A. Kriewaldt to assume command as the 29th Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair (SUPSHIP), USN, Newport News. Presided over by Rear Adm. Casey Moton, Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Maritime , the ceremony brought together senior Navy leaders, civilian executives, waterfront personnel, and industry partners to witness the transfer of authority and responsibility for the Navy’s waterfront oversight of its critical carrier and submarine construction programs. At Newport News, SUPSHIP oversees the design, procurement, construction, nuclear refueling, and complex lifecycle maintenance of the nation’s nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines in direct partnership with Huntington Ingalls Industries—Newport News Shipbuilding. Capt. Sammataro now leads an elite on-site workforce consisting of more than 600 civilian specialists and military personnel who serve as the Navy’s on-site technical, contractual, and quality authority. In his address to the assembled military and civilian workforce, Capt. Sammataro underscored the imperative of velocity, precision, and alignment across the waterfront. “The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Caudle, is recapitalizing the Foundry: the shoreside support that delivers warﬁghting capability to the Fleet. We—SUPSHIP, Newport News Shipbuilding, and our government and industry partners—are a vital part of the Foundry,” Sammataro told the audience. “Our mission is to deliver naval combat power. There is no more important mission than what we do every day to get submarines and aircraft carriers, this era’s capital ships, to the Fleet.” Emphasizing the geopolitical stakes facing the United States and the shipbuilding enterprise, Sammataro highlighted the urgency required on the deckplates. “We are being challenged every day by countries who would reshape the way the world works and destroy the freedom of navigation that enables our way of life and that of other free nations around the globe,”

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (September 18, 2026) — Capt. Michael Sammatro, commanding officer of Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair (SUPSHIP), USN, Newport News, speaks during the SUPSHIP change of command ceremony. SUPSHIP is the liaison between the Department of the Navy and Huntington Ingalls Industries-Newport News Shipbuilding who is engaged in the design and construction of new nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers as well as the repair and modernization of submarines and aircraft carriers in the ﬂeet. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN OLIVER MCCAIN VIEIRA)

Sammataro said. “We can tell our competitors ‘not today’ only as long as we can put credible combat power to sea. There are a lot of challenges, and it lands on us as SUPSHIP to brutally assess, identify gaps, and work with the government and industry team to close those gaps and get capability to the Fleet faster. Some of these issues require generational ﬁxes. All of them require innovation and hard work across all disciplines, from the executive suite to the deckplate. All of us are essential—there are no small jobs in shipbuilding.” Sammataro also stressed the shared responsibility between the Navy and its industry partners to remove barriers and accelerate execution.

“To my team, you are empowered to execute your part of the mission to drive outcomes and deliver ships. Be relentless, be impatient,” Sammataro stated. “To our industry partners: we’re all here to deliver ships. We will hold each other accountable and work together as partners to do so. The success or failure of both our organizations is intertwined.” He concluded his remarks with a direct call to service and execution: “We must be ready when we are called to use our skills for the mission, because our fellow Americans are counting on us to deliver ships that defend the freedoms we hold dear. That is our mandate, every day. This is our hour. That thought energizes me and I hope it energizes

you. I look forward to working with you all. Let’s go deliver some ships.” About SUPSHIP Newport News: Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, USN, Newport News (SUPSHIPNN) is the Department of the Navy’s on-site technical, contractual, and quality authority embedded at Huntington Ingalls Industries—Newport News Shipbuilding. SUPSHIPNN ensures the Navy’s capital warships—including Fordclass aircraft carriers and nuclear-powered fast attack and ballistic missile submarines— are engineered, built, overhauled, and tested to the highest standards of combat lethality before joining the ﬂeet.

U.S. Navy establishes Robotic and Autonomous Systems Warﬁghting Development Center By Senior Chief Petty Officer Elliott Fabrizio CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS

The Secretary of the Navy and the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) officially established the Robotic and Autonomous Systems Warfighting Development Center (RASWDC) today, marking a critical milestone in accelerating the development, operational integration, and employment of robotic and autonomous systems (RAS) across the maritime domain. Headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, RASWDC is an Echelon 3 warﬁghting development center operating under U.S. Fleet Forces Command. The command will serve as the Navy’s dedicated, Fleet-facing operational integration point for robotic and autonomous capabilities. “To maintain our decisive maritime advantage, we must rapidly integrate robotic and autonomous systems into how we operate, train, and deploy,” said the Chief of Naval Operations. “The establishment of RASWDC ensures our Sailors are equipped with the

tactical edge, advanced training, and specialized doctrine required to win the high-end ﬁght.” TheestablishmentofRASWDCoperatesin tandem with the recently announced Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for Robotic and Autonomous Systems (DRPM RAS). While DRPM RAS provides single accountable portfolio authority for RAS acquisition, requirements implementation, budgeting, technical standards, and ﬁelding, RASWDC focuses entirely on operational employment. Together, these organizations create a rapid, direct feedback loop between the acquisition enterprise and operational forces. By capturing lessons from testing, experimentation, and training, RASWDC will ensure empirical performance data is returned rapidly to developers and program managers to improve future capability. “RASWDC is the critical bridge between capability development and operational employment,” the CNO added. “By forging a direct feedback loop, we are accelerating the delivery of unmanned capabilities from the foundry directly to the Fleet, ensuring our

forces are postured to meet any challenge.” As robotic and autonomous systems become increasingly vital to naval warfare, RASWDC is designed to rapidly test, learn, iterate, and ﬁeld capabilities. By strengthening “The Foundry,” the center ensures a direct connection between operational experience and future capability development. To support “The Fleet,” RASWDC will conduct operational testing in representative environments and synchronize efforts across the Navy’s warfare communities. Ultimately, to prepare Sailors for “The Fight,” the command will develop the specialized doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), as well as the advanced tactical instruction framework necessary to certify and deploy these advanced platforms. The CNO has designated Rear Admiral Melvin Smith as the inaugural Commander of RASWDC and the supported commander fortheestablishmentoftheneworganization. Rear Adm. Smith is leading a phased near-, mid-, and long-term implementation plan, which includes developing the command structure, mission relationships, and resource

requirementsasRASWDCprogressestoward full operational capability. “This is just day one,” said Rear Adm. Smith. “Our purpose here is to consolidate the Navy’s autonomous efforts across air, surface, and undersea domains, and give them a single home here at Little Creek. Our mandate is straightforward: educate our warfighters, equip the Fleet with tools that actually survive the environment, and develop the combined tactics to employ them decisively. We are here to make sure our forces don’t just ﬁeld unmanned systems, but dominate with them.” RASWDC will not replace the expertise or responsibilities resident within existing Warﬁghting Development Centers, Type Commanders, Systems Commands, or operational commands. Instead, it will provide a dedicated operational integration point, coordinating directly with these organizations to incorporate emerging requirements and share lessons learned. For additional information and media queries, please contact U.S. Fleet Forces Command.

Naval Station Norfolk commemorates 25 years since the September 11 terrorist attacks By Operations Specialist Second Class Clayton James

NORFOLK, Va. — Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk held a remembrance ceremony on the 25th anniversary of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks. Service members, ﬁrst-responders and civilians gathered to show their respect and honor to those who lost their lives. This ceremony honored the nearly 3,000 men, women and children who lost their lives that day,

as well as the first responders and military members who answered the call that morning. The event opened with the parading of the colors, the national anthem, an invocation and continued with the reading of first responder’s testimonials, a ceremonial flag passing. Before the final benediction, NAVSTANorfolk2027ChiefSelecteesshared a recount of the timeline of events that took place on Sept. 11, 2001. Capt. Bryan Dahlquist, Executive Officer,

NAVSTA Norfolk, delivered remarks on the remembrance on the September 11th terrorist attacks. “Twenty-ﬁve years have passed since that Tuesday morning, but for many Americans, the memories remain incredibly vivid,” said Dahlquist. “We remember where we were when we ﬁrst heard the news. We remember watching the images from New York City, the Pentagon and Pennsylvania. We remember the confusion, the disbelief and eventually the painful realization that our nation had been

attacked. For many of the young Sailors serving in our Navy and, in doing so, prevented even greater loss life.” As the ceremony ended, the gathering stood as a solemn reminder that time may pass, but sacriﬁce is never forgotten. Twenty-ﬁve years after September 11, the names and stories of those who lost their lives continue to live on through the people who serve, protect and carry their legacy forward.

MAKE SURE CUTIE PIE IS IN THE RIGHT SEAT. NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section A | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Quarterdeck

PA G E 1

SECTION B

T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 2 6

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

Newly pinned Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Braxton James, assigned to Air Department, is piped through the side boys during Pre-Commissioning Unit John F. Kennedy’s (CVN 79) Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony at Gator Theater on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Eustis, September 17. Twenty-nine ﬁscal-year 2027 1st Class Petty Officers were pinned to Chief Petty Officer during the ceremony with crew members, command leaders, family and friends in attendance. John F. Kennedy is the second Ford-class aircraft carrier and is under construction at HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding division in Newport News, Virginia. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN ROBERTO OROPEZA)

PCU John F. Kennedy welcomes new Chiefs and carries legacy of leadership By Seaman Roberto Oropeza PCU JOHN F. KENNEDY (CVN 79)

JOINTEXPEDITIONARYBASELITTLE CREEK, Va. — At Gator Theater on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Eustis, Pre-Commissioning Unit John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) pinned 29 1st Class Petty Officers to Chief Petty Officer during a ceremony with crew members, command leaders, family and friends in attendance, September 17, 2026. Congratulations to our newest Chiefs! Stand on business! For the new Chiefs, the ceremony represented more than an advancement. It marked the beginning of a chapter not defined by a new title or gold insignia, but greater responsibility, higher expectations and a commitment to developing the Sailors entrusted to their leadership. Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Christopher Torres, assigned to Engineering Department, shared his first takeaways from the ceremony. “The feeling of having these anchors is great,” said Torres. This is something I have worked towards for a long time, and it was the result of a combination of people believing in me and me doing the work. The six weeks of initiation Chief had its ups and downs for sure and you may not understand it all at first, but it was definitely rewarding.” Established April 1, 1893, the Chief Petty Officer rank has long represented technical expertise, deckplate leadership and mentorship. Chiefs connect the Navy’s officer and enlisted ranks while upholding the standards necessary to maintain an effective fighting force. Chiefs must set an example to help Sailors understand what right looks like, correct deficiencies, recognize achievement, and provide

U.S. Navy Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic Dominic Reece, assigned to Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Department, places the cover on newly pinned U.S. Navy Chief Fire Controlman Marlie Loudin, assigned to Combat Systems Department, during PreCommissioning Unit John F. Kennedy’s (CVN 79) Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony at Gator Theater on board Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Eustis, September 17. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN ALEXANDER GRAVITTE)

guidance for professional and personal growth. They must also maintain an environment in which Sailors are treated with dignity and respect while also being held accountable for their actions when necessary. The new Chiefs aboard John F. Kennedy inherited this legacy and responsibility as the ship prepares for ﬂeet operations. The standards they establish today will inﬂuence the Sailors who will take the ship to sea, operate its systems and

carry out its missions around the world. John F Kennedy’s Commanding Officer, Captain Doug Langenberg, congratulated the Chiefs and pointed towards their new standards and practices for the ship. “The Navy does not expect you to merely preserve what they handed you - [the U.S. Navy] expects you to strengthen it, to improve it, to add your mark, so that when your time is done, your Navy is better than

when you found it,” said Langenberg. “This is the inﬁnite responsibility of the Chief Petty Officer: to lead in such a way that Sailors who come after you will inherit not only the same Navy, but a stronger, more resilient one…To our newest Chiefs, congratulations.” Chiefs do not carry those responsibilities alone. The Chiefs Mess brings together leaders with different experiences and perspectives to identify challenges, develop solutions and support the command’s mission. Its strength comes from a collective willingness to share lessons, support one another and place the crew’s needs above personal interests.Byobservingperformance,teaching technical skills and encouraging professional development, Chiefs help Sailors become conﬁdent members of a cohesive crew. They reinforce watchstanding standards, promote readiness and show Sailors how their duties contribute to the ship’s mission. Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Braxton James, assigned to Air Department, shared a crucial skill in understanding how he has learned to lead. “A big thing I learned from the Chief initiation is to ask for help,” said James. “Sometimes we get caught up in thinking we can do everything ourselves and that is going to lead to the accolades that we want. You have to realize that along the way you needed help. Even if you didn’t ask for it, you always have help. It is not a weakness to ask for it.” That responsibility to help is especially important aboard John F. Kennedy as its Sailors establish the foundation for future Sailors that will operate the world’s most advanced aircraft carrier. The Chiefs who lead those Sailors have an See CHIEFS on Page B2

Navy outlines transition support for Sailors, families affected by Bahrain operations By Petty Officer 1st Class Jaimar Carson Bondurant CHIEF OF NAVAL PERSONNEL

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Navy released updated guidance and resources for Sailors, civilian employees and families displaced by operations in Bahrain, to support transitioning from Safe Haven lodging to longer-term housing. To secure appropriate entitlements, military families must select a designated location for resettlement by Nov. 30. Impacted personnel will continue to receive Safe Haven allowances at the current rate until Oct.11. Beginning Oct. 12, the allowance decreases to 75% and will continue through Nov. 30. Declarations should be made to Salesforce via mailto:askmncc@us.navy.mil. Once a family selects and occupies their permanent home, Safe Haven per diem ends and the service member will then receive

Basic Allowance for Housing based on the ZIP code of the family’s new home. The Navy will also pay authorized travel and moving expenses for dependents and two family pets. Navy Personal Property and Housing offices will coordinate the packing and shipment of household goods and personal vehicles from Naval Support Activity Bahrain to families’ new homes. Family members generally cannot return to Bahrain to pack their belongings. However, service members are authorized to oversee pack-outs. U.S. Central Command and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command may approve temporary return travel for adult family members on a case-bycase basis, when the security environment allows. Civilians staying in commercial lodging may receive a Special Transitional Separate Maintenance Allowance for up to 90 days and $25 per day for transportation, effective Aug. 27. Civilians who must maintain two homes

may be eligible for an Involuntary Separate Maintenance Allowance. Sailors, Civilians and their families should reach out to their chain of command or local Emergency Family Assistance Center for personalized support. Virtual EFAC Europe may be contacted at https://www.navylifeeurafcent.com/installations/nsf-ramstein/ efac and virtual EFAC Naval District Washington may be contacted at https://www. navyregionmwrndw.com/efac. More generalized support is available 24/7 at MyNavy Career Center at (833) 330-6622(MNCC) or askmncc@us.navy.mil. Sailors who remain in Bahrain on Permanent Change of Station Orders may receive COLA-Unique, a special Cost of Living Allowance designed to help cover the difference between local rent and their new housing allowance. Sailors should contact their command for assistance. For Sailors re-locating to or from Bahrain on PCS orders,

the Personal Property Activity is available to assist, email mailto:PCSCallCenter@mail. mil, or call 833-MIL-MOVE. OperationEpicFuryhasalsoaffectedCycle 272 enlisted advancement exams. Commands unable to conduct exams on schedule because of combat operations, evacuations or increased force protection measures received an extension. As a result, fall advancement results may be delayed to allow exams from affected areas to be processed. The extension doesnotapplyﬂeet-wide,andcommandsthat can safely test on schedule must do so. The Navy continues to provide the latest information to impacted Department of Navy personnel through a variety of resources including updates to command and installation leadership, EFACs, and NAVCENThosted town halls.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Q: What types of family housing are available? A: There are three types of housing available to families:

SUFFOLK, Va. (Sept. 16, 2026) – Newly pinned Navy Chief Petty Officers assigned to Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR) and Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command (NCDOC) stand for a group photo during a Chief Petty Officer (CPO) pinning ceremony at the Hub 757 auditorium. Friends, family, and shipmates gathered to witness the milestone as the selectees donned their gold anchors, symbolizing their transition into the Navy Chiefs Mess and the ranks of senior leadership. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS RAY MCCANN)

Forged from the deckplates: Five new Chiefs don the anchors of the 133rd pinning season By Joshua Rodriguez NAVAL INFORMATION FORCES

SUFFOLK, Va. — The Hub 757 auditorium echoed with pride as five newly selected chief pettyofficersmarchedforwardtoreceivetheir gold fouled anchors. The ceremony, held on September 16, 2026, marked the historic 133rd Chief Petty Officer Pinning Ceremony for Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR), Fleet Cyber Command and Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command (NCDOC). The arrival of the five selects at the Hall of Heroes was the culmination of an arduous six-week initiation period designed to strip away individual ego and forge a warrior ethos. During the ceremony, mentors and family members participated in the traditional “donning of the hat,” placing combination covers onto the heads of the new chiefs before pinning the anchor insignia onto their uniform collars. NAVIFOR Force Master Chief Augustine Cooper served as the guest speaker, delivering a powerful charge that emphasized the profound transformation of entering the Navy’s senior enlisted ranks. “What you did to this point in your career got you selected. What you did during the season got you accepted. What you do from this day forward is what matters most.”Cooper noted. “Pressure is not a burden. Pressure is a privilege. It means you have been entrusted with something that matters.” Cooperconnectedthe133-yearlegacyofthe rank—established on April 1, 1893—directly to the high-stakes, fast-paced domain of modern information warfare. He reminded the five new chiefs that the systems, networks, and secrets they guard hold immense strategic weight. “In Information Warfare, the effects of your leadership may travel faster than any ship and farther than any horizon,” Cooper remarked. “We fight not only on, above, and below the sea, but across space, inside networks, and across every frequency and signal that connects our fleet. When the crisis erupts, the first shots will be non-kinetic, moving through

CHIEFS

from Page B1

opportunitytoshapeindividualcareersaswell as the future of the ship’s culture. Welcoming new members strengthens the John F. Kennedy’s Chiefs Mess by adding their skills and perspectives to its collective experience. The new Chiefs’ success will be measured not only by their accomplishments, but also

Public/Private Venture (PPV) Housing is also referred to as privatized housing in the Navy. The Navy partnered with different private management companies to provide housing to Service Members. These companies are responsible for the construction, renovation, maintenance and day-to-day management of the housing. PPV housing may be located on or off government property and in most cases will be former military housing. Government Owned (also known as Military Housing or Navy Managed Housing is what was formerly called on-base housing. While only available in limited quantities CONUS, Government Owned Housing is still widely available OCONUS. Community Housing is any housing that a Service Member may choose that is not PPV or government operated. This is housing outside of the base that is privately owned and operated.

NAVY HOUSING CONTACTS:

Norfolk: 757.445.2832 JEBLCFS: 757.462.2792 Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.3268 Yorktown: 757.847.7806 If you have any questions or concerns with privatized housing, government-owned housing or community housing you can email Navy Housing Headquarters: NavyHousingHQ@us.navy.mil or learn more online: ffr.cnic.navy.mil/Navy-Housing

SUFFOLK, Va. (Sept. 16, 2026) – Chief Cyber Warfare Technician Patrick Zachry is pinned with his anchors by family members during a Chief Petty Officer pinning ceremony at the Hub 757 auditorium. The ceremony represented the culmination of six weeks of intense initiation, officially welcoming Zachry into the Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR) and Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command (NCDOC) Chiefs Mess. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS RAY MCCANN)

our networks and across the electromagnetic spectrum.” Cooper issued a directive regarding deckplate leadership and accountability, telling the new chiefs, “The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. Holding someone accountable is not cruelty; it is one of the highest forms of respect. It tells that Sailor, “I believe in your potential too much to let you settle for mediocrity.” Cooper also honored the families and loved ones in attendance, acknowledging their quiet sacriﬁces and stating that the anchors pinned that day belonged to them just as much as to the Sailors. “To the families here in attendance: look at your Sailor today. Selection to the rank of Chief Petty Officer is achieved by fewer than ten percent of all who raise their right hand

to enlist in the United States Navy. You bore the burden of long deployments, missed holidays and birthdays, unanswered questions, and late-night calls. You held the homefront together while your Sailor stood the watch. This anchor belongs to you just as much as it belongs to them.” NAVIFOR’s mission is to generate, directly and through our commands, agile and technically superior manned, trained, equipped, and certified combat-ready Information Warfare forces to ensure our Navy will decisively DETER, COMPETE, and WIN. Follow NAVIFOR on Facebook: https:// www.facebook.com/NavalInformationForces Or visit our public webpage: https:// www.navifor.usff.navy.mil

by the Sailors they develop, the teams they strengthen and the examples they set. John F Kennedy’s Command Master Chief Craig Johnson communicated a call to action for the ship’s newest Chief Petty Officers. “It is going to take the Chief to inspire these Sailors - to make sure that we are doing the right thing,” said Johnson. “We are going to maintainthestandards,enforcestandards,and aregoingtoownourprofessionalandpersonal development and that of the Sailors we are

charged to lead.” Thepinningceremonyservedasareminder that the Navy’s strength depends on its people and the leaders who prepare them to serve. As John F. Kennedy continues its transition toward ﬂeet operations, its newest Chiefs will help shape the ship’s culture, strengthen its crew and prepare Sailors for the challenges of operating at sea.

Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) programs and services are designed to help you make the most of your military experience, and they’re all available to you at no cost. FUNCTIONS AND/OR SERVICES FFSC PROVIDES: ClinicalCounseling – Individual, Couples and Child Counseling Personal Financial Management Information & Referral Family Employment Assistance Transition Assistance Family Advocacy Program Deployment and Mobilization Support Ombudsman Support Relocation Assistance Parenting Programs Stress and Anger Management Command Support Crisis Support Suicide Prevention SAPR Support CONTACT FFSC Little Creek/Fort Story: 757.462.7563 Newport News: 757.688.6289 Norfolk/Portsmouth: 757.444.2102 Northwest: 757.421.8770 Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.2912 Yorktown: 757.887.4606 Get more info online: www.navylifema.com

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Capt. Hannah Kriewaldt retires after 27 distinguished years building and delivering the Navy’s ﬂeet By Telly B. Myles SUPERVISOR OF SHIPBUILDING NEWPORT NEWS

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — When Captain Hannah A. Kriewaldt departed St. Joseph, Missouri, in the summer of 1995 for the brick courtyards of the United States Naval Academy, she could not have imagined that 27 years later she would stand on the James River waterfront responsible for the construction and modernization of the world’s most powerful nuclear-powered warships. Surrounded by shipbuilders, senior Navy flag officers, Sailors, civilian engineers, and family, Kriewaldt completed her final naval watch. In a dual ceremony combining the time-honored naval change of command and formal retirement, Kriewaldt officially relinquished command of Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair (SUPSHIP), Newport News, bringing to a close an extraordinary career dedicated to the fleet and the warfighter. The transfer of command was formally executed when Kriewaldt read her official detachment orders before turning over the helm to her relief, Capt. Michael A. Sammataro. Rear Adm. Casey Moton, Portfolio Acquisition Executive Maritime for Aircraft Carriers, presented Kriewaldt with her second award of the Legion of Merit, recognizing her visionary leadership and lasting contributions to naval readiness. Rear Adm. Dianna Wolfson, Director of Fleet Maintenance for U.S. Fleet Forces Command, delivered the retirement address, honoring Kriewaldt’s operational toughness, engineering brilliance, and compassionate mentorship. A CAREER FORGED AT SEA AND ON THE WATERFRONT

Kriewaldt graduated and earned her commission from Annapolis in 1999 with a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography. Demonstrating the intellectual curiosity and technical rigor that would define her career, she went on to earn a Master of Science in Engineering Acoustics from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. Her career began where all naval leaders cut their teeth: forward deployed at sea. She earned her Surface Warfare Officer qualification aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) out of Mayport, Florida, and the Spruance-class destroyer USS O’Brien (DD 975) homeported in Yokosuka, Japan. Recognizing her innate technical aptitude and operational insight, the Navy selected Kriewaldt for the Engineering Duty Officer (EDO) community, the service’s elite cadre of uniformed engineers and acquisition leaders who design, build, and maintain the combat ships of the fleet. What followed was a progression through the Navy’s most critical industrial and technical milestones. Her waterfront expertise deepened during assignments at Norfolk Naval Shipyard and on the staff of Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. Answering the call for global operations, she deployed as an individual augmentee to Djibouti supporting Combined Joint Task Force — Horn of Africa. Yet it was her leadership aboard the nation’s nuclear aircraft carriers where Kriewaldt truly made naval history. She was hand-picked to serve as Chief Engineer (“CHENG”) aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), leading hundreds of Sailors and technical specialists. LEADING AT THE POINT OF THE SPEAR: FOUR YEARS AT SUPSHIP NEWPORT NEWS

In June 2022, Kriewaldt assumed command of SUPSHIP Newport News. Leading a command comprised of more than 600 Navy civilian and military personnel, she stood as the Navy’s resident authority and principal liaison with industry partner Huntington Ingalls Industries—Newport News Shipbuilding—the sole facility in the United States capable of building nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and one of only two constructing nuclear submarines.

ABOVE: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (Sept. 18, 2026) Rear Adm. Dianna Wolfson, left, director, Fleet Maintenance, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, poses with Capt. Hannah Kriewaldt, right, and presents Kriewaldt’s daughters with a certiﬁcate of appreciation during Kriewaldt’s retirement ceremony. Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, USN, Newport News, (SUPSHIPNN), is the liaison between the Department of the Navy and Huntington Ingalls IndustriesNewport News Shipbuilding who is engaged in the design and construction of new nuclear-powered submarines and aircraft carriers as well as the repair and modernization of submarines and aircraft carriers in the ﬂeet. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN RJ GARADO) LEFT: Capt. Hannah

Kriewaldt departs her retirement ceremony following 27 years of service and being relieved of command from Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, USN, Newport News. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST SEAMAN OLIVER MCCAIN VIEIRA)

Over her four-year tour, Kriewaldt drove urgency and accountability into every aspect of waterfront production, overseeing multi-billion-dollar shipbuilding programs including the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers, Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines, and Virginia-class attack submarines. “SUPSHIP Newport News proudly partners with Huntington Ingalls Industries— Newport News Shipbuilding, united by a mission that extends far beyond the shipyard: delivering the warﬁghting capacity our Navy and our nation require,” Kriewaldt reﬂected in an address to her command. “Every aircraft carrier and submarine we build, modernize, repair, and return to service represents combat power for the Fleet. The measure of our success is not simply the work we oversee—it is the capability we deliver.” Addressing the realities of global competition, she reminded her team that their mission directly protects American freedom. “Our strategic reality demands unyielding

maritime superiority,” Kriewaldt said. “In an era of contested seas and intensifying global competition, our nation cannot afford hesitation—now is the time to drive harder, faster, and more decisively than ever before. Accelerating the delivery of lethal, mission-ready warﬁghting capacity to the Fleet is not merely a benchmark; it is our national imperative.” GOING ASHORE: “THE WATCH STANDS RELIEVED”

The retirement ceremony captured the profound camaraderie and deep respect Kriewaldt fostered throughout her 27 years in uniform. The ceremony reached its emotional peak with the traditional reading of “The Watch,” a time-honored naval verse honoring a Sailor’s unwavering vigilance through the years while others rested, learned, or grew under her protection. As the ﬁnal words echoed — “Shipmate, you stand relieved… we have the watch”— side boys piped Captain Kriewaldt ashore

one last time. Looking ahead, Kriewaldt is embarking on what she enthusiastically calls “Family & Future: A New Voyage,” spending wellearned time with her daughters, Viktoria Grace and Ava Marie, and reﬂecting with pride on a career that began in Missouri and left an indelible mark on the ships and Sailors that defend freedom across the globe. About SUPSHIP Newport News: Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair, USN, Newport News (SUPSHIPNN) is the Department of the Navy’s on-site technical, contractual, and quality authority embedded at Huntington Ingalls Industries—Newport News Shipbuilding. SUPSHIPNN ensures the Navy’s capital warships, including Fordclass aircraft carriers and nuclear-powered fast attack and ballistic missile submarines are engineered, built, overhauled, and tested to the highest standards of combat lethality before joining the ﬂeet.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

The PAE Munitions team and German defense partners mark the 50th anniversary of the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) program Sept. 17 during the 97th RAM Steering Committee meeting in Germany, recognizing ﬁve decades of U.S.-German cooperation to deliver and sustain a critical naval self-defense capability. (PHOTO BY JAMIE COSGROVE, PORTFOLIO ACQUISITION EXECUTIVE MUNITIONS)

PAE Munitions marks 50 years of U.S.-German partnership on Rolling Airframe Missile program Courtesy Story PORTFOLIO ACQUISITION EXECUTIVE MUNITIONS

PAE Munitions marked the 50th anniversary of the Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) program Sept. 17 during the 97th RAM Steering Committee meeting, recognizing ﬁve decades of U.S.-German cooperation to deliver and sustain a critical naval self-defense capability. “For 50 years, the RAM program has continued to evolve to meet ﬂeet needs and the changing threat environment,” said Capt. Tom Pilkerton, Terminal Defense Systems program manager. “That steady focus on

capability and modernization has helped sustain RAM’s role as an important part of naval self-defense.” Since 1976, the RAM program has reﬂected a long-standing partnership between the U.S. and Germany, sustained by close collaboration across government and industry. Over ﬁve decades, that cooperative approach has helped the program adapt, endure, and build industrial base resiliency. “We are operating in an environment where demand for capable weapons is increasing, and the ability to produce at scale is just as important as the capability itself,” said Van Hendrey, Portfolio Acquisition Executive Munitions and U.S. Co-Chair of

the RAM Steering Committee. “Foundational to RAM’s success is the ability of our governments and industries to work together, solve problems together, and deliver together — at speed and scale.” RAM provides naval ships a rapid-response, short-range defensive capability against anti-ship cruise missiles and other airborne threats as part of a layered self-defense system. Its continued modernization has helped ensure the system remains responsive to evolving threats and fleet requirements. The anniversary also underscores the strength and durability of the U.S.-German cooperative model, which has sustained the

program through changing requirements, engineering challenges, and shifts in the threat environment while continuing to deliver capability for naval forces. About PAE Munitions: Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) Munitions is a Department of the Navy organization responsible for the development, procurement, and delivery of naval munitions and strike capabilities. By unifying key weapons programs and aligning the weapons industrial base, PAE Munitions provides enterprise-level integration to accelerate production, increase capacity, and ensure the Fleet is equipped with the munitions needed to project power and win.

SAN DIEGO (AUG. 23, 2026) Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Oakland (LCS 24) launches a RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile from its SeaRAM Anti-Ship Missile Defense System during live-ﬁre exercises, Aug. 23, 2026. Littoral combat ships are fast, optimally manned, mission-tailored surface combatants that operate in near-shore and open-ocean environments, winning against 21st-century threats. (U.S. NAVY COURTESY PHOTO)

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

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ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

ABOVE: U.S. Navy Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Kevin Faatafa visits with Poseidon, a “Mutts on a Mission” dog, aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) in the South China Sea, Oct. 19, 2025. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN 3RD CLASS SYDNEY NEWTON) BELOW: Sage, a 5-year old golden retriever expeditionary facility working dog assigned to USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) through Mutts With A Mission, sits on the ﬂight deck as the ship arrives in Marseille, France, Aug. 4, 2025. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 3RD CLASS ALEXANDER CASCO)

NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD (Nov. 08, 2024) Capt. Fathom, The ship’s expeditionary facility dog, assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) poses for a photo, Nov. 08, 2024. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 3RD CLASS CESZAR VILLALBABALDONADO)

Mutts with a Mission EFD Program

By Staff Sgt. Bryce Hodges NAVAL HISTORY AND HERITAGE COMMAND

InthebowelsofUSSWasp(LHD1),asailor sits alone, secluding themselves from their shipmates. Dark thoughts coursing through their mind, wondering if anyone would even care or miss them if they were gone. While deep in this contemplation the sailor suddenly felt a cold, wet nose touching their face. As they looked up, they were greeted by the golden, yellow fur of Cmdr. Ike, the Expeditionary Facility Dog (EFD) stationed aboard Wasp. Ike had noticed something was wrong while walking with his handlers and had come over to check on his shipmate. Ike would spend some time with the sailor, and it was during this interaction they realized there was someone who would miss them and they were not as alone as they felt. A tragedy prevented and life saved, this is the direct impact of Mutts with a Mission’s (MWAM) EFD program can have for active-duty sailors. MWAM was co-founded in 2008 by Brooke Corson alongside her brother, Keller Elliott, and husband Joe with the goal of placing highly trained, world class Service Dogs with qualified disabled veterans, law enforcement and first responders. That dream became a reality in late 2009 when MWAM’s first service dog and veteran pairing was made. “It all started when she [Brooke] was mobilized at Ft. Benning,” said Tara Stover, Marketing and Social Media Manager, MWAM. “She had her pet dog Angus with her and was able to see him interact with the soldiers and seeing the difference those interactions made she was inspired to start MWAM.” Based in Hampton Roads, Va., MWAM has trained and paired over 100 service dogs with the qualified individuals who needed

them and as well as training facility dogs for the first responder community. In 2019, MWAM’s commitment to the highest standards of excellence were recognized on the world stage when they received full accreditation from Assistance Dogs International (ADI). The organizations’ location led to a natural bond with the U.S. Navy. “The relationship started with ship and command visits with our service dogs in training,” said Stover. “Those visits and interactions led us to wonder how we get the dogs to assist sailors during deployments aboard ships?” In 2023 MWAM partnered with the U.S. Navy to answer that question when they launched the EFD program. The program’s purpose being to place highly trained MWAM Facility Dogs with the U.S. Navy. Unlike Service Dogs, EFDs are not assigned to an individual. Instead, they are trained to work with entire crews, helping sailors and Marines reduce stress and strengthen morale. The launch of the program makes MWAM the first and only organization authorized to place EFDs aboard ships and installations to support active-duty sailors. “The program started with Ike and Sage being the first two placed,” said Stover. “And from there the program has continued to grow and expand with four EFDs, Ike, Sage, Fathom and Rudder stationed aboard ships on the east and west coast and a fifth, Demo, stationed in Oklahoma.” The job of all EFDs is to support sailors during long deployments and stressful environments, reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage sailors to seek professional support and to serve as a catalyst for conversations that otherwise might not happen. By improving the well-being of sailors, EFDs indirectly strengthen operational readiness and mission effectiveness.

All dogs with MWAM go through an intense training process. “Our puppies enter the training program typically by 8 weeks old,” said Stover. “When they enter our program, the trainers select the puppies based on a variety of tests including temperament, behavior and personality testing. Once they go through these evaluations and are selected to join the program, they are placed with their puppy raisers who raise the dog, bring them to training classes, expose them to a variety of environments, and basically taking them from elementary school through high school so to speak. After the dogs have completed their training with their raisers they come back to us for their ﬁnal training and evaluations just like in college. This whole process takes about two to three years, as our labs graduate around two years old and our Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs graduate when they are about three.” While EFDs go through the same training as all other dogs being trained by MWAM they also receive specialized training for their service with the Navy, which increases the length of the process. These training additions include how to navigate ladder wells, group interaction and even helicopter training. “There are restrictions on which ships the dogs can be stationed,” said Stover. “They must be based on LHD’s or carriers due to the needed space for the dog but because they are helicopter trained, they can service the other ships in their strike groups as well.” It is not just the EFDs that must go through a selection process and intense training. All EFD handlers must go through a selection process and evaluations as well. “The handlers who work with our EFDs are active-duty personnel who volunteer for the additional duty,” said Stover. “They can apply for the program through their chain of command which will review them ﬁrst,

and if they get approved, they will get sent to us. We then train them how to work with and care for the dog and really evaluate them at the same time to make sure each handler and dog pairing is a good fit and is what is best for the dog.” Unlike a service dog meant for an individual, EFDs are a team effort. Each EFD has a primary handler with several secondary handlers, teams can vary from roughly five to eight handlers depending on where the EFD is located. In the few years the EFD program has existed its impact has been profound and has expanded quickly given the training requirements for each EFD. The program has given active-duty sailors new comrades to their crews and increased the bond shared aboard the ships hosting these task-trained working dogs. This has directly benefited the Navy, as a healthier, more connected crew willing to seek help is better positioned to maintain cohesion and effectiveness during deployments and while dealing with operational stress. “This partnership has expanded so much in these first three years that we are incredibly excited to see how the program grows going forward,” said Stover. “While we are limited, based on the number of dogs we can train, we are excited to keep working with the Navy, to place dogs where we are able, where they are most needed and watching to see how this grows and changes, what the future needs are and adjusting accordingly.” Being there when a member of the crew or individual sailor needs to talk or reconnect, could be considered ultimate the goal of MWAM’s EFD program. It might be as simple as a cold, wet nose on their cheek or a wagging tail going down the passageway. But to that sailor, to that crew, that simple act can make a lasting difference.

Navy aligns public works under installation Commanding Officers By Destiny Sibert COMMANDER, NAVY INSTALLATIONS COMMAND

WASHINGTON — The Navy today announced the completion of the transfer of public works maintenance teams from Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) to Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC), placing approximately 10,000 civilian and military personnel under the direct authority of base commanding officers. “This move is all about giving our base commanders the tools and authority they need to get the job done,” said Vice Adm.

Scott Gray, Commander, Navy Installations Command. “By putting maintenance teams directly under local command, we can make quicker decisions, prioritize repairs, and keep our bases running smoothly. I am proud to welcome public works professionals to the CNIC team as we work together to support our Sailors, families, and ﬂeet operations.” The Navy completed the ﬁrst stage of this realignment in February 2026, transferring approximately 2,000 installation personnel providing facilities management and environmental functions services. The second stage of the realignment completed Sept. 20, 2026, andincludesapproximately8,000installation public works and mission support personnel.

Theadministrativetransferofhostnationand U.S. civilian service personnel in Japan will occur Nov. 1, 2026, in accordance with country-speciﬁc personnel transfer requirements. While CNIC will now run everyday base maintenance, NAVFAC will provide infrastructure construction, engineering, and contracting capabilities that enable Navy and Marine Corps lethality. “NAVFAC and CNIC worked closely together to set the conditions for a seamless transition of public works functions and ensure continuous support to the ﬂeet,” said Rear Adm. Jeff Kilian, Commander, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command. “This realignment strengthens NAVFAC’s

ability to drive acquisition reform and accelerate delivery of infrastructure solutions critical to Navy and Marine Corps warfighting readiness.” Commander, Navy Installations Command is responsible for worldwide U.S. Navy Shore installation management, designing and developing integrated solutions for sustainment and development of Navy shore infrastructure as well as quality of life programs. CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions, 71 installations, and more than 63,000 employees who are focused on warfighting and manning, training and equipping the Shore to fight and win. Navy installations are warfighting platforms essential to every fleet operation.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

Ann Wood, who is performing the duties of Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers, and Fleet Readiness Center East Commanding Officer Capt. Randy Berti celebrated the ﬁrst-ever graduates of the Naval Air Systems Command Federal Wage System Leadership Development Program (FWSLDP) Sept. 2. FWSLDP provides in-depth and hands-on leadership training for skilled trade employees. The nine FRCE graduates are the ﬁrst in the enterprise to complete the program. (PHOTO BY SAMANTHA MORSE)

FRCE artisans lead the way in new NAVAIR development program

By Samantha Morse FLEET READINESS CENTER EAST

Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) recently piloted a new leadership program for the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) enterprise, serving as the exclusive testing ground for skilled trade employee development. After months of training, FRCE celebrated the graduation of the program’s ﬁrst cohort Sept. 2, paving the way for a new, one-year development program that is now being offered NAVAIR-wide. As a key component of the NAVAIR Leader Development Continuum, the new Federal Wage System Leadership Development Program (FWSLDP) provides Federal Wage System employees with foundational leadership, communication and problem-solving skills. FRCE served as the proving groundfor the program, making the command’s nine participants the ﬁrst in the enterprise to complete the curriculum.

Ann Wood, who is performing the duties of Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers, and FRCE Commanding Officer Capt. Randy Berti presented the graduates with certificates of completion during the ceremony. Wood stated in her remarks that as the enterprise’s first leadership development program for Federal Wage System personnel, the FWSLDPbridgesacriticalgapinprofessional training for front-line artisans, improving the depot’s support of warfighter readiness. “These graduates have played such an important role in the genesis of the readiness that is generated here every day,” said Wood. “This program was a powerful step in their journeys to become the best leaders and teammates possible. Artisans have to be leaders, leading themselves and others. This training helped prepare them for the responsibilities and challenges ahead. It’s not the challenges that matter but how we overcome them, and that’s where these graduates can make a difference. The fleet always

comes first, so drive your teams to outcomes that matter for the fleet and remove barriers quickly.” During the six-month pilot program, the nineparticipantsengagedinacomprehensive training curriculum with nine core competencies: communication, problem-solving, accountability, developing others, team building, conflict management, decisiveness, influencing and ethical behavior. Rather than relying on traditional classroom instruction, the program focuses on enhancing leadership capabilities throughhands-on, interactive training scenarios and continued mentorship. The initiative is driving enterprise-wide readiness through the continuous development of its industrial workforce, according to the depot’s lead training administrator Tonya Hill. Samuel Hall, nondestructive inspection technician at FRCE and graduate of the FWSLDP pilot program, said this program gave him the confidence and knowledge to

become a better leader and teammate. “I gained the ability to analyze how people think and how I can best address people who are not only junior to me, but also at my level and senior to me,” said Hall. “I learned how to communicate my ideas and thoughts more effectively. It helped me understand how to collaborate as a team member and how to come together to develop something that not only can beneﬁt FRC East, but also NAVAIR. It made me, hands down, a better leader.” FRCE is North Carolina’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, with more than 3,900 civilian, military and contract workers. Its annual revenueexceeds$886million.Thedepotprovides service to the ﬂeet while functioning as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy; Naval Air Systems Command; and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers.

NAVFAC Atlantic awards contract to modernize Norfolk Naval Shipyard electrical infrastructure By Michael Morris NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMAND ATLANTIC

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Atlantic (NAVFAC Atlantic) awarded a $96.3 million contract Sept. 18 to MEB General Contractors Inc. of Chesapeake, Virginia, for electrical distribution system upgrades at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. The contract supports military construction Project P732, Electrical Distribution System Upgrades (Gosport Substation Only), a foundational utility project within the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP). Work is expected to be completed by September 2032. Project P732 will modernize the Gosport Substationtoprovidethehigh-voltageelectrical infrastructure needed to support current shipyard operations, planned modernization and future growth. The improvements are designed to increase electrical capacity while strengthening the reliability, resilience and ﬂexibility of the system supporting Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s industrial mission. “We are very excited to get started on investing in much-needed electrical capacity andresiliencyimprovementsatNorfolkNaval Shipyard,” said Matt Morris, SIOP department director at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. “This project will deliver reliable power to

the shipyard to meet both current and evolving ﬂeet needs. This will ensure the shipyard workforce can do what they need to do — maintain and modernize our aircraft carriers and submarines and return them back to the ﬂeet where they belong.” Reliable, high-capacity electrical power is essential to the complex industrial work performed throughout the shipyard. Dry dock pumps, heavy cranes, industrial machinery, shipboard systems and modernized facilities all depend on consistent, high-quality power. Electrical demand is also increasing as facilities are modernized and newer naval platforms rely more heavily on electricity and electronic systems. Project P732 will replace obsolete primary transformers and switchgear with modern equipment and connect the upgraded Gosport Substation to the shipyard’s existing electrical distribution system. The improvements are designed to increase electrical capacity while strengthening the reliability and resilience of the infrastructure supporting shipyard operations. “Project P732 more than doubles the electrical capacity for NSA Portsmouth to support upgraded facilities and new naval platforms,” said Christopher Krus, NAVFAC Atlantic’s Project P732 project manager. “These buildings and ships have an ever-increasing reliance on electricity as legacy steam power is phased out. The project improves reliabil-

ity and resilience for this critical element of Navy ships’ major maintenance and repair, supporting safe and efficient industrial operations.” Krus also cited coordination with Dominion Energy Virginia as an important part of improving electrical capacity, power quality, efficiency and controls while upgrading the system to current industry standards and providing flexibility for future growth and expansion. The project will also modernize the shipyard’s existing supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. The system provides personnel with visibility into electrical distribution and helps them monitor and manage the flow of power. Modernizing SCADA will replace legacy controls and improve the Navy’s ability to oversee and manage the electrical system. Additional improvements incorporate elevated flood protection and other measures designed to improve the resilience of critical electrical infrastructure against coastal environmental conditions. Dependable electrical infrastructure directly supports personnel conducting complex maintenance, repair and modernization work. Stable power is necessary for precision tools, heavy industrial equipment, temporaryshipboardsystemsandothercapabilities required for production and waterfront operations.

“Resilient shore utilities are the bedrock of naval readiness, powering the dry docks and industrial shops that maintain the nation’s combat fleet,” said Keith R. Barbish, SIOP program director. Project P732 is part of SIOP, the Navy’s long-term effort to modernize infrastructure at its four public shipyards and ensure they can support the maintenance requirements of the current and future fleet. At Norfolk Naval Shipyard, modernizing foundational utilities provides the capacity and flexibility needed to support improved facilities, advanced industrial capabilities and evolving naval platforms. Investments in resilient shore infrastructure support the Navy’s ability to maintain and modernize nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines and return them to the fleet. By modernizing the underlying utility systems that enable shipyard operations, Project P732 supports Norfolk Naval Shipyard’s long-term industrial capability, fleet readiness and the Navy’s national defense mission. Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command is the Navy’s facilities and expeditionary systems command, delivering the planning, design, construction, sustainment and environmental services that support Fleet readiness, warfighter capability and shore infrastructure resilience worldwide.

NAVFAC MIDLANT awards nearly $154M construction contract at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Courtesy Story Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Mid-Atlantic

NORFOLK, Va. — Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Mid-Atlantic (NAVFAC MIDLANT) awarded Sauer Construction, Jacksonville, Florida, a nearly $154 million, ﬁrm-ﬁxed price contract for construction services onboard Naval Weap-

ons Station Yorktown in Yorktown, Virginia. Work will be performed on the installation and is scheduled for completion by February 2030. Fiscal year (FY) 2024 and FY 2026 military construction (Navy) funding will be obligated at the time of the award and will not expire at the end of the FY. The maximum dollar value, including the base price and three options, is

$154,192,299. This contract was competitively procured via the SAM.gov website, with three offers received. NAVFAC MIDLANT is the contracting activity (N40085-26-C-0021). NAVFACMIDLANTdeliverscomprehensive facilities engineering, public works, and environmental services across a broad area

of responsibility — from South Carolina to Maine, extending west to Illinois and south to Indiana. For additional information about NAVFAC MIDLANT on social media, follow our activities on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ navfacmidatlantic and on Instagram @ navfacmidatlantic.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section B | Thursday, October 1, 2026

PA G E 1

On Liberty SECTION C

T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 2 6

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(CREDIT: FESTEVENTS)

The 36th Annual Virginia Children’s Festival returns Saturday, October 3, to Town Point Park Press Release

TICKET INFO

NORFOLK, Va. — The 36th Annual Virginia Children’s Festival, Hampton Roads’ most exciting family festival, returns to Town Point Park on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 10 am to 3 pm. The Virginia Children’s Festival features a variety of interactive experiences for children ages 10 and younger in mind! A complete listing of festival entertainment can be found below. Tickets can be purchased online at bit. ly/VAChildrensFest26 (infants ages one & under are free). MILITARY SPECIAL IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LIBERTY MILITARY HOUSING Save $2 on tickets at the gate with Military ID. Valid for day-of ticket purchases at the gate on Saturday, October 3, only. NEW THIS YEAR! Commodore Commotion Locomotion Train Dance Party Join Maury High School Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) students for the Commodore Commotion Locomotion Train Dance Party! Led and hosted by the FCCLA students, guests are invited to design their own wearable box car at the train crafting tent before joining the Commodore Commotion Locomotion conga line to the T-Fiber Ready, Set, Go! Stage for a dance party. Participants will have two opportunities to join the Train Dance Party. The 15-minute bash will begin at noon and 2 PM and feature a mix prepared by DJ Karee of Music Theory Studios. Returning this year! Shop the Mini Maker’s Market, where you can purchase handmade goods created by artists ages 12 and younger.

Tickets can be purchased online at Festevents.org or at the gate during the event. Purchase your ticket in advance for $6 the week of or $7 day of. ••••••• MILITARY SPECIAL IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LIBERTY MILITARY HOUSING Save $2 on tickets at the gate with Military I.D. Valid for day-of ticket purchases at the gate only. ••••••• The 36th Annual Virginia Children’s Festival presented by Sentara Health Plans is produced by Norfolk Festevents in partnership with the City of Norfolk and is sponsored by WHRO Public Media, Sentara Health Plans, Southern Auto Group, Virginia is for Lovers, T-Fiber, 13 News Now, Dollar Tree, and Liberty Military Housing. FormoreinformationonNorfolkFestevents’ 2026 Season of Events, visit Festevents.org.

PERFORMANCES WHRO LIGHTS! CAMERA! ACTION! MAIN STAGE:

10:30am — Rainbow Puppets 11:30am — Hurrah Players present Seussical 12:15pm — 13 News Now presents Weather in a Jar 1:00pm — Tidewater African Cultural Alliance 1:30pm — Hurrah Players present Seussical 2:15pm — WHRO Martha Reads 2:30pm — Meet & greet with Clifford the Big Red Dog

T-FIBER READY, SET, GO! STAGE:

10:15am — Maury High School Cheerleading 10:30am — FAME All-Stars Cheerleading 11:00am — DanZstar School of Dance 11:15am — Libre Dance USA 11:30am — Evelyn Ott School of Dance 11:45am — bellA Dance School 12:00pm — Commodore Commotion Locomotion led by Maury High School FCCLA 12:30pm — Shark City Drumline 12:45pm — Mexican Folkloric Dance 1:00pm — Virginia Zoo 1:30pm — DJ Qrtrs of Music Theory Studios 1:45pm — Maureen School of Dance 2:00pm — Commodore Commotion Locomotion led by Maury High School FCCLA 2:15pm — Co-Motion Dance School 2:30pm — SpotLight School of Dance 2:45pm — Norfolk Dance Collective

STORYTELLING & MORE 10:45am, 11:45am, 12:45pm & 2:00pm — Mermaid Shellyelley Book Nook 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm & 2:00pm — Pirate School with the Deﬁant Crew 11:00am — 3:00pm — Shop the Mini Maker’s Market presented by Dollar Tree

ACTIVITIES Visit with Adaptive Dance for All Craft a handmade piece of art at Art & Crafts with Chrystal Enjoy performances from Ballet Folclorico Mexicano, bellA Dance School,

Co-Motion Dance, DanZStar, Evelyn Ott School of Dance, Libre Dance USA, Norfolk Dance Collective, and Spotlight Dance School Create with Barry Art Museum and Chrysler Museum of Art Meet local author Audrey Leishman and learn about Katie the Koala’s Biggest Fight, a story inspired by courage, kindness, and helping others through hard times with The Begin Again Foundation. Kids can color, create a card for a child in the hospital, and have some fun at the putting station. Experience The BIG Bubblefest Event Face paintings by Changing Faces & Spaces Explore childcare options with Children’s Harbor Meet Clifford the Big Red Dog Learn about robotics and coding with Code Ninjas Build at the Construction Zone Learn about a pirate’s life with The Deﬁant Crew Shop and save with Dollar Tree Get active with live games & limbo with DJ Melody and Maury High School FCCLA Visit with Families with Autism Coming Together (FACT) Pick up cheerleading moves with FAME All-Stars Cheerleading and Maury High School Cheerleading Play your favorite video games on the GamerBus Find peace in creating with Garden Groove Explore the outdoors with the Girl See FESTIVAL on Page C2

Things are getting a little spooky at Nauticus After Dark with ‘Books and BOOs’ Press Release

selection of local vendors and book sellers while enjoying food and drinks, all set within our stunning waterfront museum. Plus, enjoy exclusive after-hours access to our exhibits as you mix, mingle, and discover something new. Perfect for a fun night out with friends, fellow book lovers, or anyone looking for a unique Norfolk experience!

Things are getting a little spooky at Nauticus After Dark! Grab your friends, plan your costume, and join us for Books & BOOs, a special Halloween edition of Nauticus After Dark exclusively for adults 21 and up on Thursday, October 22 at 5:30p.m. Join us to celebrate spooky season on the waterfront with shopping, sipping, and HERE’S WHAT’S WAITING FOR YOU exploring at Nauticus! Browse a curated Local book and bookish vendors

Halloween-inspired bites and snacks from Anchor & Spoon A costume contest, so costumes are encouraged After-hours access to Nauticus A fun night out on the waterfront

Please note all ticket holders must be 21+. Valid ID will be checked upon arrival. Tickets are only valid for your speciﬁed date and are non-refundable. Visit Nauticus.org for more details, including our full vendor lineup, special menu, and activities. Follow our social media accounts to TICKET INFORMATION stay updated! Nauticus is located at 1 WaterTickets are just $12 per person (increases side Drive, Norfolk, VA 23510-1737. to $15 day of event) and Nauticus Members pay just $5 in advance ($10 day of ).

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, October 1, 2026

COMMUNITY | SHARE YOUR NEWS, PHOTOS & EVENTS BY EMAILING US AT NEWS@FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

FESTIVAL

Meet and Greet with Princesses Learn about Sentara Health Plan’s healthy lifestyle options from Page C1 Join a mini drum workshop with Shark Scouts of Colonial Coast City Drumline Visit with Bubbles and learn about Learn about Shineforth Goldﬁsh Swim School Meet with Star Wars characters Visit with Grocery Bargain Outlet Take a peek inside the car world with Test your putting skills at Inﬂatable Golf Southern Auto Group Learn about investing with Invest529 Decorate your own train cart at the Visit our Kulture City Sensory Zone Commodore Commotion Locomotion Construct buildings and characters at Train Station LEGO Land Learn about Fiber Internet and recharge Quench your thirst at the Lemonade your phone in a relaxation zone sponsored Stand by T-Fiber Craft away with LemonDrop Makery Dribble and aim for the target with Learn more about Liberty Military Virginia Atlantic Football Club Housing Visit with the Virginia Department of Show your spirit at Little Soldier Camp Health Learn the art of Maritime Knot Tying Learn about wildlife from The Virginia Read with Mermaid Shellyelley Zoo Shop the Mini Makers’ Market presented Stop by WHRO Public Media’s PBS Kid’s by Dollar Tree Village Enjoy live sets and learn the art of dee-jaying with Music Theory Studios TODDLER TOWN: Learn about maritime history with Nauticus Toys & tikes galore in a gated area for our Explore the outdoors with Norfolk younger festival guests! Toddlers must be Botanical Gardens 3ft tall or shorter to enter. Discover the art of literature with Norfolk Public Library TOWNEBANK FOUNTAIN Experiment with Norfolk State University Chemistry and Old Dominion PARK: University Physics Enjoy our Touch-a-Truck Experience Grab a bite with Passanante’s Food with Newport News Shipbuilding Service Build and mold shapes at Playdough ROAMING CHARACTERS: Island Clifford the Big Red Dog

The Deﬁant Crew Pirates Mermaid Shellyelly Princesses Real Life Ballerina Star Wars

Shell Sisters (Crafts made from shells) SparkleMoo Studio (Accessories, jewelry, pottery) Sunshine Club — Shop for Kids (Accessories, jewelry)

PARTICIPATING RETAIL VENDORS:

PARTICIPATING FOOD TRUCKS & FOOD The Baby Alpaca (Kid’s jackets, ponchos, VENDORS: gloves, llama fur, keychains) Crunch On! (Freeze-dried snacks) MurrayArt (Needle lace, handwoven bags and wallets, cork purse, crochet ﬂowers made by women in shelters) Nothing Bundt Cakes (Bundtlet cakes) Stefanie Foley Designs (Hand-painted rocks, trinket boxes, paintings, magnets)

PARTICIPATING MINI MAKERS:

Abstract Imprint Art (Books, stories, music) Birds by Hank (Hand-drawn bird ornaments) Cam’s Garden Kits & More (Handmade garden grow kits and supplies) Crochet by Capri (Crochet, embroidery, knitting, needle craft) Hayden’s Bracelets & More (Bracelets, rings, pens) Innovative Endeavors (Pinecone holiday trees and America250 pinecones) M&L Boutique (Handmade hair clips, artwork, bookmarks) Reverie Atelier Co. (Beads, bracelets, accessories)

Ben & Jerry’s (Ice cream, coffee and cider) Buzz Stop (Coffee, matcha, chai, energy drinks and more) Deep Fried (Funnel cakes) Hawaiian Sno (Shaved ice and lemonade) JMT Vegan Eats (Burgers, mac bowls, rice bowl, po boys, breakfast tacos and more) Plaza Del Sol (Street tacos, taquitos, nachos, quesadillas, and more) Pollards (Chicken tenders, gizzards, fries, puffs) Kettle corn (Kettle corn and lemonade) Spuds (Corn dogs, fries, hot dogs, burgers, Philly’s, fried ﬁsh, shrimp, and more) Watcha Matcha (Filipino-inspired matcha, baked goods, and lumpia) Yolees G Dawgz (Full-service hot dog cart)

All activities and performances listed are subject to change. Visit festevents.org or follow @Festevents on Facebook and Instagram for real-time event updates.

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, October 1, 2026

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FOOD

A Comfort Food Favorite for Football Nights With football season in full swing, it’s time to break out game day favorites that get the crowd on their feet. This Bison Barbecue Meatloaf may not be a traditional tailgate item, but it’s a perfect way to bring the family together for weeknight games. Visit Culinary.net to ﬁnd more game day dishes.

Topping: 3 tablespoons caramel sauce 2 cups powdered sugar 1/2 cup chopped nuts of choice Heat oven to 350 F. Grease Bundt pan. In mixing bowl, mix cake mix, pumpkin, butter and

eggs well then pour into Bundt pan. Bake 45-50 minutes until toothpick inserted in middle comes out cleanly. Let cool in pan 5 minutes then remove from pan and let cool completely on rack. Once cooled, mix caramel sauce and powdered sugar; drizzle over Bundt cake. Sprinkle with chopped nuts.

Bison Barbecue Meatloaf

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 4-6 1 pound ground bison 1/3 pound hamburger (optional) 2 tablespoons mesquite seasoning or barbecue seasoning 1 egg 1/2 cup barbecue sauce Glaze: 1 cup barbecue sauce 2 tablespoons brown sugar Heat oven to 350 F. In bowl, mix bison; hamburger, if using; seasoning; egg; and barbecue sauce. Place in loaf pan. To make glaze, mix barbecue sauce and brown sugar. Spread over meatloaf. Bake 45 minutes.

A Go-To Sweet Potato Side Sweet potatoes seem to scream “fall,” especially this roasted version that pairs well with a wide variety of family favorites like fried chicken. It can be your go-to recipe when comfort cravings call for a savory (not sweet) side. Pair your favorite fall meal with more side dish inspiration from Culinary.net.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 4 2 large sweet potatoes, washed and cubed 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder 1/2 tablespoon onion powder salt, to taste pepper, to taste oil, for drizzling 2 tablespoons butter Heat oven to 425 F. In bowl, mix cubed sweet potatoes with garlic powder, onion powder and salt and pepper, to taste. Drizzle with oil; mix well. Place sweet potatoes in baking dish and bake 30 minutes. Remove from oven and spoon butter over sweet potatoes, mixing well. Note: If using small sweet potatoes, use four (one per serving).

Simple, Flavorful Fall Dessert If your family’s taste buds have grown tired of apple-inspired fall desserts, simply look toward another quintessential autumn ﬂavor: pumpkin. Quick and easy to prepare using a spice cake mix that provides all the ﬂavor without the stress, this cake can be dressed to impress at a fall gathering or served after weeknight dinner. Find more recipes perfect for fall at Culinary.net.

Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 8-12 Bundt Cake: 1 box spice cake mix 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 1 stick butter, softened 2 eggs

PUMPKIN SPICE BUNDT CAKE

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, October 1, 2026

HEALTH

Get your ﬂu shot with TRICARE

Note: Before getting the vaccine, call to check if you need an appointment and if the vaccine is available. Remember to bring your Uniformed Services ID card.

By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — With the days growing shorter and the kids back at school, flu season is on the way. The flu can spread quickly, especially during the fall and winter months. Getting vaccinatedreducesyourriskofseriousillness. TRICARE covers the flu vaccine for eligible beneficiaries, helping protect you and your family this season. Learn how to get your TRICARE-covered flu vaccine today.

RECOGNIZING SYMPTOMS

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE VACCINE

The flu virus changes rapidly. This means that each year’s flu shot only provides protection for that year’s strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older (with rare exceptions). Therearesomepopulationswhoareathigher risk for having complications from the flu. It’s especially important for people in these groups to get the flu vaccine. This includes: People aged 65 and older People with certain chronic medical conditions Pregnant women Children younger than 5 years old (and especially children under 2) Additionally, if you live with people who are at high risk for flu complications, it’s important to get vaccinated. There are many different flu vaccine products. Consult with your provider to determine which vaccine is best for you.

A Hospital Corpsman administers an inﬂuenza vaccine to a USNH Yokosuka staff member in the Command Auditorium during the start of the hospital’s 2025 inﬂuenza vaccination season. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY USNMRTC YOKOSUKA PUBLIC AFFAIRS/DANIEL TAYLOR)

into May. Getting the vaccine too early can limit its effectiveness. But getting the vaccine later in the ﬂu season still has beneﬁts, since the virus is still circulating. You may be eligible to get vaccinated for other respiratory illnesses, like RSV or COVID-19, at the same time. Your provider can discuss your options for getting those vaccines.

The most common symptoms of the ﬂu includes: Fever Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Tiredness You can spread the ﬂu before symptoms appear, or with no symptoms at all. Getting vaccinated can help protect others around you. If you do get sick, symptoms may be less severe if you’ve received the vaccine. Steps to prevent spreading respiratory diseases include: Avoiding close contact with people who are sick Covering coughs and sneezes Washing your hands often Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth If you’re sick, stay home until you’ve been fever-free for 24 hours and your symptoms are improving. Talk to your provider if you have questions about vaccines. For more information on TRICARE’s vaccine coverage, check out Immunizations (online at https://tricare.mil/ CoveredServices/IsItCovered/Immunizations).

Pharmacy Handbook: Go to a military hospital or clinic. Go to a TRICARE retail network pharmacy. Make sure the person who gives you the vaccine is a pharmacist. If another type of provider (like a doctor or nurse practitioner) gives you a vaccine at a participating pharmacy, you may have out-of-pocket costs. Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GET See a TRICARE-authorized provider. to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions VACCINATED? However, if you get other services at the to get beneﬁt updates, news, and more. Generally, September and October are the WHERE CAN I GET VACCINATED? same time, you may have to pay copayments best months to get the ﬂu vaccine. Flu season There are three ways you can get vacci- or cost-shares. These costs vary based on your usually peaks in February and can continue nated at no cost, as described in the TRICARE health plan.

Q&A: Learn the basics of TRICARE For Life coverage By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — TRICARE For Life offers healthcare coverage for TRICARE beneficiaries who also have Medicare Part A and Part B. Like all health plans, there are important details that can help you make the most of your benefits. “TRICARE For Life is a comprehensive health plan available worldwide,” said Anne Breslin, Program Manager, TRICARE For Life, TRICARE Health Plan, at the Defense Health Agency. “Medicare is the primary or first payer, so it’s important that you become familiar with Medicare before your coverage starts.” This article answers some of the more common questions about TFL. For more in-depth information, check out the TRICARE For Life Handbook (online at https://tricare.mil/Publications/Handbooks/ tricare_for_life). Q: What is TFL? A: TFL is Medicare-wraparound coverage.

This means that TRICARE pays for many of the medical expenses not covered by Medicare. If you’re eligible for Medicare Part A, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B to have TFL. This is true regardless of your age, or where you live. Q: How do I enroll? A: TFL coverage is automatic when you

sign up for Medicare Part A and Part B. There are no enrollment forms or enrollment fees for TFL. The Medicare program informs the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System when they begin to cover a TRICARE beneﬁciary. If you’re 65 years old, you’ll need to renew your Uniformed Services ID card after you get your Welcome to Medicare letter. All you need for proof of coverage is your Medicare card and Uniformed Services ID card. Your record in DEERS must reﬂect your eligibility for TRICARE. Keep your and your family’s contact information up to date in DEERS to avoid enrollment problems. Q: What changes when I enroll? A: While your medical coverage is the

same, TFL beneﬁciaries have different access to providers at military hospitals and clinics than before. Unlike TRICARE Prime, TFL beneﬁciaries primarily seek care with civilian Medicare providers. You may continue to get care at a military hospital or clinic if space is available, or if you have the option to enroll in TRICARE Plus at a military hospital or clinic. Q: What do Medicare and TFL cover? A: Together with Medicare, TFL provides a

TRICARE For Life is Medicare-wraparound coverage. This means that TRICARE pays for many of the medical expenses not covered by Medicare. If you’re eligible for Medicare Part A, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B to have TFL. Q: When will I have a copayment or costshare? A: As described in the TRICARE For Life

Handbook, there are four scenarios to consider around out-of-pocket costs: Medical services covered by Medicare and TRICARE: When you see a Medicare participating or Medicare non-participating provider, you have no out-of-pocket costs for services covered by both Medicare and TFL. Most healthcare services fall into this category. After Medicare pays its portion of the claim, TRICARE pays the remaining amount, and you pay nothing. Medical services covered by Medicare, but not by TRICARE: When you get care that’s covered by Medicare only, Medicare processes the claim as the primary payer and pays the Medicare-allowed amount. TRICARE pays nothing. You’re responsible for the Medicare deductible and cost-share and any remaining billed charges. Medical services covered by TRICARE, but not by Medicare: When you get care that’s covered only by TRICARE, TRICARE processes the claim as the primary payer and pays the TRICARE-allowable amount. You’re responsible for any TRICARE deductibles and coinsurance. Medical services not covered by Medicare or TRICARE: When you get care that isn’t covered by Medicare or TRICARE, neither pays on the claim. You’re responsible for the entire bill. Refer to the TRICARE For Life Cost Matrix (online at https://tricare.mil/Publications/Costs/tricare_for_life_costs) for a breakdown of costs for certain Medicare and TRICARE covered services.

comprehensive healthcare benefit. In some cases, TFL provides added benefits. For example, TFL covers skilled nursing facility costs beyond Medicare’s 100-day limit. TFL beneficiaries remain eligible for the TRICARE Pharmacy Program. Go to Pharmacy Costs (online at https://tricare.mil/ pharmacycosts) to see TRICARE Pharmacy Program costs. Neither Medicare nor TFL cover longterm care such as independent or assisted living. However, you may qualify to buy longterm care insurance through commercial Q: What about Medicare Advantage (Part insurance programs or through the Federal C), and Medicare drug coverage (Part D)? Long Term Care Insurance Program. A:

Part C: Medicare Advantage is optional coverage offered by private companies that contract with Medicare to provide the same services as Parts A and B. Some provide prescription coverage as well. You’ll usually need prior authorization before seeing medical specialists like cardiologists, dermatologists, or orthopedic surgeons. If you sign up for Medicare Advantage, you may pay a monthly plan premium, plus your Medicare Part B premium. You’ll also have to make copayments at the time of service. This means you’d file a claim with TRICARE for reimbursements of copayments for TRICARE-covered services. You must also get healthcare services from the Medicare Advantage plan’s network of providers, except for emergency services. Part D: TFL beneficiaries remain eligible for prescription drug coverage through the TRICARE Pharmacy Program. You aren’t required to have Medicare Part D to have TRICARE prescription drug coverage. In some cases, you may benefit from buying a Medicare Part D plan. For example, Part D plans sometimes cover drugs that aren’t covered by TRICARE. Q: What if I have other health coverage, like an employer-sponsored plan? A: If you’re turning 65 and have employ-

and Medicare have paid their portion of the claim. Decline your employer-sponsored coverage and enroll in Medicare Parts A and B. TFL is effective the first date that both your Medicare Parts A and B take effect. Medicare will be the first payer and TRICARE pays after. Employer-sponsored health plans may cover providers, services, or items that Medicare and TRICARE don’t. Compare your employergrouphealthplanbenefitsandcosts to your Medicare and TRICARE benefits and costs to find what’s best for you. Q: What about dental and vision coverage? A: TFL doesn’t provide dental coverage.

But TFL beneﬁciaries can enroll in dental and vision insurance available through the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program. Q: What if I’m overseas? A: TRICARE is the only payer overseas.

Medicare provides coverage in the U.S. and U.S. territories. If you live overseas, you’ll still need to have Medicare Part A and Part B to have TFL coverage. While living or traveling overseas, TFL beneﬁciaries may get covered services and supplies from a network provider or any authorized TRICARE provider. Contact the TRICARE overseas contractor for help ﬁnding a civilian provider. No matter where you go next, your TRICARE coverage goes with you.

er-sponsored health insurance, you can: Keep your employer-sponsored coverage, and enroll only in Medicare Part A. In this case, you won’t have TRICARE coverage. TFL takes effect on the first date that your Medicare Part A and Part B coverage are effective. Keep your employer-sponsored cover- Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent ageandalsoenrollinMedicarePartsAand to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions B. TFL is effective the first date that both your to get benefit updates, news, and more. Medicare Parts A and B take effect. TRICARE is the last payer after your employer coverage

ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, October 1, 2026

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ﬂagshipnews.com | Section C | Thursday, October 1, 2026