October 9, 2014 – Skywriter

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What’s Inside...

Public Affairs Officer Howard Samuelson

Navy Launches New App to Save Power See page 4

Assistant Public Affairs Officer and Leading Petty Officer MC1(SW/AW) Barry Riley Editor MC3 Ryan G. Greene Skywriter Staff MC2 Kegan E. Kay MC3 Ryan G. Greene

October is Fire Prevention Month

Host Nation Relations Masako Takakura Sumie Maruyama Ikumi Tanaka See page 6 Webmaster Noriko Yamazaki

Track NAFA’s Energy Success in 2014 See page 9

Let's Learn Nihongo The NAFAtsugi Spolight Happy Birthday!

O tanjobi omedeto!

Contributors MWR Marketing Fleet and Family Support Center Commissary Public Affairs Navy Exchange Public Affairs NAF Atsugi Tenant Commands

When is your birthday?

Anata no o tanjobi wa itsu desu ka?

How old are you now?

Ima nansai desu ka?

I’m 25 years old.

Watashi wa nijugo sai desu.

What do you want for your birthday?

O tanjobi presento wa nani ga ii desu ka.

ON THE COVER

Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51 maintenance crew Sailors maintain the mission readiness of the helicopters while the squadron is deployed For more on what HSM 51 is up to, click here.

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NAF Atsugi Commanding Officer Capt. John F. Bushey signs the 2014 Fire Prevention Proclamation, designating October as Fire Prevention month. Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay.

SECNAV Discusses Maritime Security

Story by SECNAV PAO Secretary of the Navy Public Affairs

Photo by MCC Sam Shavers

Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus delivered remarks about maritime security and the global economy Sept. 25 at the University of Pennsylvania.

During his speech, Mabus talked about the impact of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps’ presence on the security and stability of the global economy.

“The world economy is doing as well as it is because of navies, and, primarily, because of the United States Navy,” Mabus said.

The event, sponsored by the University of Pennsylvania’s Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps unit and its schools of Arts and Sciences and International Politics, as well as the Foreign Policy Research Institute, was largely attended by an audience focused on international relationships. Mabus discussed the significance of these relationships and the importance of partnerships in maintaining freedom of trade and navigation.

“No matter how big, no matter how capable, no one country can do everything. We have to rely on partners worldwide. The more interoperable we are, the more we exercise together, the more we operate together, the better we will be when a crisis comes,” Mabus said.

He also addressed the role of energy in powering the fleet and how increasing operating costs could affect the Navy and Marine Corps’ ability to accomplish their mission.

“Every time there’s a crisis somewhere,” Mabus said, “traders 3

in oil and gas add what is known as a security premium, usually about $10 a barrel. Every time the price of oil goes up $1 a barrel, it costs the Navy and Marine Corps $30 million in additional operating costs.”

To counter this effect and to help the Department of the Navy enhance its warfighting capabilities, he reinforced the need for alternative energy solutions.

Mabus added the Navy and Marine Corps’ presence also depends on having the right sized fleet. He told the audience that in the five years he’s been in office, he’s placed 70 ships under contract. These ships will contribute to growing the fleet to 309 ships by the end of this decade and to 314 ships by the beginning of the 2020s.

“You have to have these platforms. You have to have these big gray hulls on the horizon to deter potential conflicts, to reassure allies and to do all the things that presence requires,” Mabus said.

“You have to grow the fleet for us to simultaneously rebalance to the Pacific, but also not ignore other parts of the world.”

Mabus closed his speech by reinforcing the importance of the Navy and Marine Corps’ future presence in waterways vital to the global economy.

“The global economy, despite its ups and downs, is running as smoothly as it is because of that presence,” Mabus said, “and that’s what we have to maintain; that forward presence to make sure we are there, to make sure we are where we need to be when we need to be there.”

Navy Unveils New App to Reduce Power Consumption Story by MC3 Ryan G. Greene

to Engineers/Energy Systems Technology Evaluation (ESTEP) Program; and Matt Schreck, energy program manager for Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, who is seeking ways to reduce energy waste to better support the warfighter on the front lines.

The app also provides facts about worldwide energy use, U.S. oil production, and Navy’s ongoing energy projects that are supportive of the Secretary of the Navy and Chief of Naval Operations energy goals.

“Energy isn’t something most of us walk around thinking about every day-we just power up our equipment and get to work,” said Rear Adm. Kevin

NAF Atsugi Public Affairs Office

The Navy recently released a new digital publication (Energy Warrior) that highlights the efforts of Sailors and other naval personnel who are taking steps to conserve energy, lead behavioral change, and get the maximum warfighting punch out of every gallon.

The app can be downloaded and installed for free on Mac and Android tablets.

Related videos are available on an Energy Warrior playlist on the U.S. Navy YouTube channel. Short summary videos are also being provided to Armed

Photo Manulipulation Courtesy of the U.S. Navy

Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS) channels.

“It is important for us to be good stewards,” said the Installation Energy Manager Lt. j.g. Allison Islin.

“Right now we’re cutting back, and an easy way to do that, is to watch how much energy we’re consuming.”

Videos in this version of the app include profiles of Fire Controlman Chief Petty Officer Christopher Roberts, who started a competition aboard USS Benfold (DDG 65) that is optimizing shipboard energy use; retired Marine Corps infantry officer Eric McElvenny, who assists retired military personnel transition to energy-related careers through the Troops

Slates, director of the Chief of Naval Operations Energy and Environmental Readiness Division.

“This app and related videos can help our Sailors and civilians understand how truly critical energy is, both to our daily jobs and to enable combat capability through greater distance, increased time on station, and the ability to carry more and new payloads.”

Plans are underway for additional video profile interviews for a future version of the app. Commands with innovative energy projects, people, and ideas are encouraged to contact the Navy’s energy team at energywarrior@navy.mil.

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NAF Atsugi to Host Annual Energy Fair Later This Month Story by MC3 Ryan G. Greene NAF Atsugi Public Affairs Office

For four short hours all Sailors, families and Master Labor Contractors on Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi have an opportunity to join in the Public Works departments’ annual Energy Fair Oct. 24 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Taylor Field to promote energy conservation and awareness.

Each year NAF Atsugi hosts the Energy Fair in October because it’s the U.S. Navy’s designated energy saver month.

“We would love to have the maximum participation from Sailors and their families,” said Installation Energy Manager Lt. j.g. Allison Islin. “This fair is more than just energy conservation, we have several Japanese vendors coming out to talk about different things we can be doing here in our community to reduce our energy and water use.”

The event is expected to attract many different energy and water companies from around Japan, who’re also interested in showcasing their newest and most modern designs and products.

“This year the Seabees will be selling tons of food and drinks, like burgers and hot dogs, not to mention the BBQ and lunch combos.” said Engineering Aide 3rd Class Jay Murphy. “It’s not just about energy and water; it’s about the Seabees too.”

The Energy Fair will also include live music and a guest appearance by

Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene

Sparky, the energy saving mascot.

“There is going to be a lot of stuff going on and we’d love to see as many people come out,” said Islin.

“We also want people to come out, hear our speakers and to meet the team. The more we can interact, the stronger I believe we can be as a community.”

It doesn’t matter if someone has five minutes or the whole four hours, it’s important that people come by and learn about what they can do to help save energy and reduce their consumption, Murphy added.

“Our NAVFAC Pacific energy team organized this event to move energy awareness into energy action,” said Public Works Officer Cmdr.

Jeffery Sherwood. “This fair is an opportunity to be more proactive through hands-on demonstrations, 5

informational displays and pamphlets, and to initiate open discussions with those who live and work on base.”

Information was made available on a variety of energy and water conservation projects in the Pacific, including tips on how to reduce energy and water consumption both in the workplace and at home.

“Energy conservation and the introduction of renewable energy initiatives in the Pacific are pivotal components to the bigger picture of energy security for our Nation,” said NAVFAC Pacific Vice-Commander Capt. Pete Lynch. “As a supporting command we strive to leverage business and technology to deliver the right expertise and products to support fleet readiness, and to meet the Navy’s energy goals.”

Fire Prevention #1

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Fire Source: Stoves and cook tops A towel or curtains hanging too close to an unattended stove can ignite. The grease in an unattended frying pan catches on fire and ignites nearby combustibles, which in turn ignite curtains, cabinets or anything else in the vicinity.

Cooking Fires: The Solution Never leave the kitchen while something is cooking on the stove.Keep combustibles at least 3 ft. away from the cooktop. This includes curtains and wall hangings.

Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay

Fire Source: Electrical equipment Potential extension cord fire. Overloaded extension cords, bad connections and other careless use of electrical devices can melt wire insulation and cause a fire. Electrical Fires: The Solution Replace extension cords that are undersized or frayed. Never run extension cords under rugs.

Replace undersized cords with larger-gauged ones or plug appliances directly into outlets.Call an electrician to track down hidden problems causing frequently tripping circuit breakers. Call an electrician to open up and troubleshoot electrical boxes that have warm covers. Check all the light bulbs in your home to make sure bulb wattages don’t exceed the fixture’s recommended maximum.

#2

Fire Source: Heating equipment Space heaters are not authorized for use on base.

Off base space heaters are used and come in both electric and kerosene types. Space heaters too close to combustibles cause most of these fires.

Heating Equipment: The Solution Keep space heaters at least 3 ft. away from drapes, bedding and other flammables.

Plug space heaters directly into outlets, not into extension cords.

Don’t use space heaters while sleeping.

Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay

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Tips and Tricks #4

Courtesy of the NAF Atsugi Housing Office and CNFJ Fire Department

Fire Source: Smoking Smoking in bed causes more fires than any other single source, because the fires usually start at night.If a cigarette smolders in the bedclothes or drops on the carpet when the smoker falls asleep, the gases from smoldering fabrics will actually lull the smoker into a deeper and deeper sleep. Live butts that fall between cushions or are tossed into trash cans can take hours to ignite, and when they finally do, the household’s in bed, asleep. Stop smoking in bed Smoking: The Solution Don’t smoke in bed, use large ashtrays on tables.

#5

Fire source: Children playing with fire

Matches and igniters stored within reach of children are the greatest hazards.

Children will often start fires while hiding in places like closets or under beds, where they’re surrounded by combustibles.

Their first reaction is often to hide from you or the fire after it starts.

It’s obvious that you shouldn’t leave matches and lighters lying around, but you also have to be vigilant around burning candles.

Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay

#6

Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay

Fire Source: Candles Most fires occur when candles burn unattended near combustibles. The recent popularity of candles and the 50 percent surge in candle-initiated fires in the last 10 years is no coincidence. Couple that with burning candles near combustibles or on shaky holders and there’s a huge potential for a catastrophic fire. Using candles safely calls for the utmost in attention and care.

They’re simply a high-risk item because you can easily set them near combustibles without noticing, leave them unattended and forget about them entirely. They’ll often get soft and fall out of a holder and ignite nearby combustibles or even ignite an underlying wooden holder or shelf.

Candles in a tip-proof container Candles: The Solution is to use only tip-proof containers. Burn candles only while you’re awake and in the same room with them. Keep candles at least 3 ft. away from combustibles. Never burn candles that have combustibles (flowers, leaves and potpourri) cast into the wax.

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e i t i e g n t e u e e r s G . p t G n p A A 3 Rya F y A C M g N er ory by t S n E ts

With the onset of sequestration in fiscal year (FY) 2012, the Navy was forced to tighten up and save both power and water.

Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi has been tasked to reduce its energy consumption by roughly $1.6 million annually and reduce water intake by two percent until 2020.

For FY14, NAF Atsugi was well below its water limit and bordered on its consumption of energy.

“People are starting to see the positive effects of their water and energy savings, and we should all be proud,” said Installation Energy Manger Lt. j.g. Allison Islin. “We still have some work to do to cut our energy costs but have made great strides with water conservation.”

According to Public Works Officer Cmdr. Jeffery Sherwood, in FY13 NAF Atsugi was well below its required two percent drop for water and electricity use, which means that people were recognizing that this is an important issue and one they can contribute to every day.

For the past three quarters NAF Atsugi has exceeded the reduction goal set by Commander, Navy Installation Command (CNIC) and is currently on track to finish out its final quarter in the same fashion.

October 2015, NAF Atsugi Public Works department will start work on a way to better track and manage energy usage.

“This new project is known as the Advanced Metering Initiative,” said Engineering Aide 3rd Class Jay Murphy. “With this new program, we’ll be able to measure which buildings are using how much energy and when. It’s really going to help us track energy and water for our customers. Furthermore, when someone’s saving energy, it will show.”

This will be the first time that NAF Atsugi will attempt such an ambitious project, but Islin is hopeful that with the new information and readings they’ll be better prepared to help the local community.

For more information regarding this, and other exciting Public Works projects, please call 264 - 4078 or stop by Taylor Field on Fri., Oct. 24 at 11 a.m. for the NAF Atsugi Energy Fair.

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VFA 115 Welcomes New Commanding Officer

Story by Lt. Ryan Vessichelli VFA - 115 Public Affairs Officer

Cmdr. Geoffrey P. Bowman relieved Cmdr. Shawn M. Kern as commanding officer of the “Eagles” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 during an airborne change of command ceremony in airspace above the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) Sept. 28.

Kern’s completion of his command tour is just one of many accomplishments during his career as a naval aviator and test pilot.

Upon returning to the U.S., Kern will assume the duties of Director of Test and Evaluation for F-35 naval variants at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, where he will play a key role in bringing the joint strike fighter to the fleet.

“The highlight of my tour has been watching our Sailors apply what makes them special as individuals to making us great as a squadron, and as a Navy,” explained Kern. “Because of their selfless commitment, we stand ready to protect the United States, our allies in the Western Pacific, and freedom around the world. This is the reason why I chose to make a career out of the Navy.”

Bowman’s command tour is just the latest in a long career as a naval officer. He previously served with the “Raging Bulls” of VFA-37 before being selected for an instructor billet with the “Rough Raiders” of VFA-125. Bowman then went on to become a landing signal officer with Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 17 prior to his department head tour with the “Sunliners” of VFA-81. He currently has more than 2,400 F/A-18 hours

and 680 carrier landings.

“It’s an honor and a humbling experience to be entrusted with the finest Strike Fighter squadron in the fleet,” Bowman said. “I look forward to working with them over the next 15 months and tackling head-on the many challenges we will face together.”

Since its founding in 1942 as Torpedo Squadron (VT) 11, VFA115 has left its mark flying in every major U.S.-involved conflict in recent history - seeing combat at Okinawa and Leyte Gulf in World War II, Inchon and Chosin Reservoir in Korea, the Gulf of Tonkin in Vietnam, and Operations Desert Storm, Desert Shield, Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

The Eagles were the first squadron to employ the F/A-18E Super Hornet in combat, an aircraft they continue to fly to this day as part of the Forward Deployed Naval Forces in Atsugi, Japan.

“The squadron will be in good hands under Bowman,” Kern asserted.

“With his leadership, lifelong association with naval aviation, and genuine concern for Sailors and their families, I know that VFA-115 will continue to push the envelope of excellence that distinguishes the Eagles.”

The Eagles are one of the nine squadrons of CVW-5 embarked aboard George Washington, which is currently on patrol in the 7th fleet area of operations, providing security and stability that protects the collective interests of the U.S. and its partners and allies in the Indo-AsiaPacific region.

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Fri., Oct. 10: ICR: 8:30 a.m. - Noon (216) Mon., Oct. 13: Columbus Day Tues., Oct. 14: NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Wed., Oct. 15: Sponsorship Class: 9 - 11 a.m. (129) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) SAPR VA Refresher Training: 9- 11 a.m. (Conf. Room) Thurs., Oct. 16: Obi Wall Hanging Class: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (129) Conv. Japanese Class: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (216) Fri., Oct. 17: SAPR Resident Advisor (RA): 9 - 10 a.m. (Conf. Room) Mon., Oct. 20: AOB: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) Tues., Oct. 21: NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Wed., Oct. 22: PSC Smooth Move Workshop: 1 - 2:30 p.m. (Conf. Room) Stress Management: 11 a.m. - Noon (Conf. Room) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Thurs., Oct. 23: Assist Workshop (1/2): 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Chapel) What are my Options?: 1 - 2 p.m. (129) Washi Craft Class: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Liberty Center Hours: Sunday & Thursday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - Midnight

Fall Sporting Events

Moonlight Madness softball rosters are due: Oct. 10 with a team meeting on the 14th and the event being held on the 17-18th.

Captain’s Cup 10K Run is taking sign ups at Ranger Gym. The run will take place on Oct. 10. For more information on the race or how to sign up call 264-9514.

Flag Football sign ups are now open, begining Oct. 27 - Dec. 20 for ages 3 - 15.

If interested in signing up call 264 - 3826.

Ranger & Halsey Gym Hours: Sunday & Saturday: 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

ITT Photo Contest

If you’ve been on an MWR trip while stationed here at NAF Atsugi, then we’re looking for your photo! Call MWR at 264 - 3770 to submit your photo and enter to win a $25 tours gift certificate!

George Wallace

Stand-up comedian George Wallace has headlined at the Flamingo Resort & Casino in Las Vegas for over 10 years, is coming to NAF Atsugi Sat., Nov. 8 from 7 - 9 p.m. at the ACC. This is a free allhands, adults-only (ages 18+) event.

Flea Market and Craft Fair

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure! Sell items you no longer need or items you’ve made at the MWR Flea Market. Those selling food must present a health certificate from the NAF Atsugi Clinic.

The event will be held Sat., Oct. 18 in front of Bldg. 77 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (set-up starts at 9 a.m.). It is five dollars to rent a table and fifty cents per chair.

Sign-ups are now being accepted at the Cash Cage through Fri., Oct. 17. This event will be canceled in case of inclement weather.

Halloween Events

Sat., Oct. 25 come out for the Trick or Treat 5K starting at 9 a.m. This family fun run/walk will feature awards for best costume, so dress to impress in your finest Halloween attire!

The Teen Center will be decortating pumpkins durign the last week of Oct. Come in on Halloween, to the bowling alley for the Liberty Center Bash!

Wanted: Tour Guides Late Night Liberty Movie Madness

NAF Atsugi Tours office is looking for E1-E4 Sailors get a free movie ticket and mini snack combo for enthusiastic, well-experienced Japan tour the 10 p.m. show every Friday and Saturday. Sign up at the Corner guides. Call 264-3786 or stop by our Pocket Cash Cage or call 264-4750 with questions. offices located in Bldg. 978 for more info on how to sign up today.

This 12-week program equips kids ages 7-16 with the physical training and goal-setting mentality needed to accomplish their running goals and push themselves in ways they never knew Come to Skymasters Lounge on Tuesday possible. The group meets twice a week to help kids train to be able evenings to enjoy Huddle Menu specials, draft to participate in the Trick or Treat 5K and Turkey Trot 5K runs. Call beer and Monday Night Football 6 - 9 p.m.!

264-3826 for more info.

Kids Go Running Club

Replay Tuesdays

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y a d i l o H r o f e r a r p u e r o P Y t a s g n i v y Sa r a s s i m Com Story by Sallie Cauthers DeCA Public Affairs

October represents the unofficial start to the holiday season for commissary customers who want to save more than their usual 30 percent or more.

“We’re offering daily specials throughout our stores and seasonal club packs at great savings for the upcoming holidays,” said Tracie Russ, the Defense Commissary Agency’s director of sales. “Don’t forget to check out our fresh produce section for coupon bundles, and, if you don’t have your Commissary Rewards Card yet, get one now. You could be missing out on some really great deals and giveaways.”

During October, DeCA’s industry partners – vendors, suppliers and brokers – are collaborating with commissaries to offer discounts beyond everyday savings. Overseas stores may have substitute events for certain promotional programs.

Customers are asked to check their local commissary for details on dates and times for the following promotions: Home for the Holidays Giveaway!

From Oct. 9-22, the Dr Pepper Snapple Group is offering 20 military families – 16 families of four stationed stateside and four families of four stationed overseas – a free trip home anywhere in the United States, to include airfare, lodging and $1,000 spending money.

Customers can scan the QR code

located on in-store signage or go online starting Oct. 9 here, to find the link to enter and for contest rules.

Oktoberfest! Continuing through mid-October, commissary customers will find in-store displays and coupons for imported items from Germany and other European countries.

Commissaries have German products ranging from chocolates, cookies, sauerkraut, mustard, red cabbage, rich German coffee and more.

Thanksgiving holiday meal.

Beginning Nov. 1, customers worldwide will be able to purchase their complete Thanksgiving meal with the Free Turkey Coupon booklet.

The following industry partners – Kraft Foods, General Mills, Heinz, P&G, Wesson, PAM, Nabisco, Kellogg’s, and Hefty and Reynolds Wrap, Johnsonville, Presto, Pepperidge Farm and Pfizer will provide shoppers with the booklet.

Supplies of these booklets worldwide will be limited.

ConAgra Foods: Hungry for Football Every Day Event. Watch for the Hungry for Football store displays throughout October that have recipe books and coupon savings.

Go here for a list of items ConAgra has on sale along with printable coupons.

Commissary patrons are also reminded to continually check the 11

DeCA website here, select the “Shopping” link and click on “Sales & Events” tab for the latest in promotional information.

The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their families in a safe and secure shopping environment. Authorized patrons purchase items at cost plus a 5-percent surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. By shopping regularly in the commissary, patrons save an average of 30 percent or more on their purchases compared to commercial prices – savings amounting to thousands of dollars annually.

Store Hours: Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Closed Mondays Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

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