Skywriter- November, 2020

NAF Atsugi

November 2020

What’s Inside...

Public Affairs Officer Howard Sam Samuelson Deputy Public Affairs Officer Greg Mitchell Editor Greg Mitchell

U.S. Navy Drug Program Policy Change

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Skywriter Staff MC3 (SW) Jacob Smith MC3 Olivier Clement MCSN Rafael Avelar Public Affairs Staff Ikumi Tanaka Maika Fujisaki

Navy Thanksgiving through the Years Page 8

Facebook.com/naf.atsugi

Youtube.com/NAFAtsugi @NAFAtsugiJP

Celebrating the History and Heritage of Navy Chaplains Page 10

CHECK OUT OUR LATEST LEADERSHIP GUIDANCE VIDEO

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www.issuu.com/nafatsugi

ONLINE

On The

Cover

Front Cover: photo by MC3 Jacob Smith Back Cover: graphic by MyNavyHR

CMDCM CORNER With Command Master Chief Daniel Irwin Shipmates, Happy November! I hope everyone had a great time during Halloween and had the opportunity to have their children get out and enjoy some trick-or-treating and the other events that our team had to offer. We know that these are not “normal” times, but we are always looking at ways to find something we can do to have some sense of “normalcy”. Thank you to MWR, NAFA Social Committee and all those that volunteered for the events.

We are well on our way into the holiday season and Thanksgiving is just a few short weeks away. The holiday season can be difficult especially while stationed overseas.

Then we add COVID-19 into the equation and this year could be that much more trying for all of us. COVID-19 fatigue is real and we all will deal with it in some form or fashion. As we navigate through this COVID-19 holiday period, please take care of yourselves and others. Ask the tough questions and pay attention to signs that people may be expressing that they are having a difficult time. As we start to look at taking leave, particularly if you plan on going back to the United States, talk to your chain of command as you start to make plans because there are requirements out there that we must follow. For example, a mandatory 14-day ROM requirement when you arrive back in the US. Also, we know that this is the time of year when family and friends would like to come out to Japan to visit, but again, talk to your chain of command as there are specific Government of Japan (GOJ) policies that we must follow. GOJ has not authorized regular tourist travel yet, so knowing the rules and policies ahead of time will help when making plans. Thank you for all you do every day and Happy Thanksgiving!

That’s it for this month. Thank you for all you do. Remember, if you have any questions ASK THE CHIEF!

November 07, 1881

November 01, 1941 President Franklin D. Roosevelts Executive Order 8929 transfers the U.S. Coast Guard to Navy Department control for the duration of a national emergency in order to perform anti- submarine pa trols and escort high-value convoys.

The Naval Advisory Board submit their report to Secretary of the Navy William H. Hunt recommends new ships in the U.S. Navy be constructed of steel instead of iron, resulting in the A, B, C, D ships.

November 14, 1906

November 23, 1981

President Theodore Roosevelt becomes the first president to visit a foreign country while in office, traveling to Panama onboard USS Louisiana (BB 19).

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In an effort to limit the amount of illegal drugs crossing into the US Border, the Navy is ordered to scout for drug smugglers. Also, USS Mississippi (CGN 40) is the first U.S. Navy ship to assist in the seizure of drug smuggling vessel.

U.S. NAVY DRUG PROGRAM POLICY CHANGE REGARDING USE OF HEMP PRODUCTS The Secretary of the Navy recently released reference a newly updated instruction to address use of hemp products. All Sailors and Marines are prohibited from using any hemp products. This prohibition applies regardless of the availability of such products at commercial stores or restaurants.

The Secretary of the Navy recently released a newly updated instruction to address use of hemp products. All Sailors and Marines are prohibited from using any hemp products. This prohibition applies regardless of the availability of such products at commercial stores or restaurants.

administrative actions and/or disciplinary action under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

On December 20, 2018, President Donald Trump signed into law the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, known as the 2018 farm bill, removing industrial hemp from the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 802(16)) and excluding from the definition of marijuana those hemp products containing up to 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on a dry weight basis.

The instruction bans Sailors and Marines from the knowing ingestion (orally, intravenously, through smoking/vaporization, absorption of transdermal or topical applications, or through other means) of products containing, or products made or derived from hemp. This includes any use of cannabidiol The passage of the Agriculture Improvement (CBD) oil, including applying CBD oil to skin, as Act of 2018 was accompanied by an increased well as ingestion of hemp seeds or hemp granola. availability of commercial hemp-derived products.

These products list hemp as the primary ingredient Violation of the most recent instruction can and not necessarily THC, regardless of THC occur whenever a service member intends to use any concentration, preventing Sailors from making an product made or derived from hemp, regardless of informed decision on the use of these products. the service members intended mental or physical effects of that use.

It is impossible to determine if the cause of a THC positive urinalysis result derives from the use of legal Locally, recent findings by the Naval Criminal hemp-derived products or use of illicit marijuana, Investigative Service (NCIS) include the beverage undermining the Navy’s ability to identify the use of ‘Chill Out’, which contains hemp and is sold locally illicit marijuana. in Japanese convenience stores. All service members have been advised to not partake in the purchase and The Department of the Navy has determined that consumption of this drink. prohibiting the use of hemp-derived products will protect the integrity of the drug testing program and This is a lawful general order applicable to enable the program to continue identifying the use of all Department of Navy military personnel. Any illicit marijuana. violations of this general order are subject to adverse

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The most recent instruction reference (a), aligns Navy policy with Department of Defense requirements addressing the use of hemp products.

This instruction does not apply to the following uses: • The use pursuant to legitimate law enforcement activities, by authorized personnel in the performance of medical duties, or without knowledge that the product was made or derived from hemp, including CBD, where that lack of knowledge is reasonable.

• The ingestion, consumption, or use of cannabinoid formulations approved as drugs by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), such as Dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros) and Cannabidiol (Epidiolex), for which the Service Member has a valid prescription from their assigned Department of Defense authorized care provider.

• The use of durable goods containing hemp, such as rope or clothing.

Commands have been directed to continue to conduct monthly urinalysis tests, to include health and comfort inspections and searches. All of these measures, if conducted using the current policy, will protect the safety and well- being of Sailors and promote mission readiness.

Prevent “COVID Fatigue”

By Lt. Cmdr. Kyle Harvey NAF Atsugi Branch Health Clinic Senior Medical Officer

First off, thank you for your continued efforts Fortunately, due to the diligent workspace against the relentless SARS-CoV-2 virus and the mitigation measures implemented by this sailor’s many challenges that have come along with this command - no workspaces less than six feet apart, new adversary. stringent mask enforcement, consistent personnel in each workspace, no large gatherings longer than It has been an incredibly arduous eight 15 minutes, etc. - the contact tracing was limited. month fight, and understandably, this can lead to In addition, this command greatly facilitated Public COVID-19 fatigue and indifference to public health Health’s contact tracing efforts by mandating each recommendations. I cannot encourage you enough member drop off an updated 14 day close contact to remind your work force and their families that we log at the quarterdeck every Friday. need to remain extremely vigilant. The upcoming months are not the time for complacency.

While this is not the only resource we rely on for contact tracings, it is a useful tool and encourages This past week, NAFA had the first sentinel accountability in our members and employees. surveillance testing positive in CNRJ. While we do not believe this positive is acutely infectious, As much as feasibly possible, it is strongly even under these “surveillance” circumstances, we recommended that each command or department are obligated to perform contact tracing with the implement similar protocols to prevent close requisite isolation and quarantine recommendations. contacts in the workspace and hold our personnel accountable for their interactions.

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Everything You Need To Know About Japan’s “Go to Travel Campaign”

By Time Out Japan and Stars and Stripes

The travel subsidy offers up to 50 percent discounts on domestic trips – here’s how to enjoy this great deal In this age of Covid-19 coronavirus, the world isn’t exactly our oyster. Although Japan’s sweeping entry ban is still in place, those of us already here are being encouraged to explore our own backyard and see everything the country has to offer. To promote domestic travel and to help boost local businesses, the Japanese government has set up the Go to Travel campaign, which provides residents with subsidies of up to 50 percent on transportation, hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions and shopping, all within Japan. Effective October 1, Tokyo is now included in the campaign, so those travelling to and from the capital are now eligible for the discounts. (NOTE: Tokyo is still currently off-limits for SOFA-Sponsored personnel aboard the installation) Most of the information on the Go to Travel campaign is in Japanese, so we’ve compiled all the key details on this remarkable travel deal.

Are airfares included?

What is Go to Travel?

If booked through a travel agency as part of a package, then The Go to Travel campaign is a Japanese government subsidy yes, your airfare is included. The deal does not apply to any encouraging domestic travel to help boost the economy. It also aims to bring business back to local tourism and hospitality operators, transportation you’ve booked directly. You can book flight with many of whom were forced to close during the coronavirus state hotel packages that are eligible for the Go to Travel discounts directly through Japan Airlines and ANA, though it’s all in of emergency.

Japanese only.

When does the Go to Travel campaign start?

Where can I use the vouchers?

The campaign started on July 22, and until September 31, you will The vouchers are distributed in physical and electronic form, receive an initial 35 percent discount on your travel expenses. From and you’llreceive them via your travel agencies, online booking October 1 onwards, you’ll receive the aforementioned 35 percent discount plus an extra 15 percent discount in the form of vouchers sites or at your hotel. They can be used at selected restaurants, that can be used at your destination, for a total 50 percent off the souvenir shops, tourist attractions and public transport cost of their trip. The campaign is expected to end in January 31 operators. Participating venues will place a sticker or poster 2021, although it’s possible it could end earlier if and when the on their storefronts for easy identification. Do note that some national budget allocated for this subsidy has all been used up. outlets only accept physical vouchers and not electronic ones, or vice versa. There are also those that accept both. And, you can also use the vouchers at selected convenience stores. Vouchers What kinds of trips are eligible?

The discount only applies to domestic trips and can only be are non-refundable and you cannot receive change when you claimed up to a set limit. For day trips, the maximum eligible pay with them. spend is ¥10,000 per day, while for overnight and longer trips, Do guest houses, dormitories, hostels, capsule hotels, the maximum is ¥20,000 per night. Trips costing more than these bungalows, tents, cottages count? amounts are still eligible for the Go to Travel scheme, but discounts If they are registered for the campaign, then yes, stays at these will only apply up to those limits. types of accommodation are eligible for the discount.

Where can I get the discount?

What is the Go To EAT campaign?

To receive the discount, you’ll need to book your trip with The Go To EAT campaign, which also kicked off Oct. 1, provides businesses that are registered with the campaign. You can find a a 25% discount at participating eateries. To take advantage of list of participating businesses on the official Go to Travel website the deals, diners may buy up to 20,000 yen ($190) in coupons (in Japanese only). Most major Japanese travel agencies and travel at a time, either online or at convenience stores, according to booking sites such as JTB, Yahoo Travel and Rakuten Travel Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. For more are included in the promotion. Since the campaign is integrated information, visit the website: with their booking systems, you’ll pay the discounted price when https://livejapan.com/en/article-a0004748/ booking directly through them.

Make your trip memorable in a good way by following Not comfortable booking in Japanese? the new traveling etiquette Don’t worry, you can also book your hotel stays in various With the new normal slowly entering everyone’s life, don’t forget languages through Booking.com (https://www.booking.com/) to follow the new traveling etiquette as well by wearing a mask and the Nippon Travel Agency (https://www.ntainbound.com/). at all times outside and refraining from making conversation Here you’ll get 35 percent discount on your hotel instantly when in enclosed spaces like trains and vehicles. Vigilance is key! you book. The additional 15 percent, which comes in the form of Sticking to the new etiquette will allow you and your companions electronic vouchers, will be issued on your check-in day after 3pm. to enjoy your subsidized trip with greater peace of mind.

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Navy Thanksgiving Through the Years

Head table with guests at the Thanksgiving dinner with the First Regiment, U.S. Naval Training Camp, Charleston, South Carolina, c. 1917 (NH116412).

The U.S. Navy has celebrated Thanksgiving in one fashion or another since before it became an official American holiday. Arrayed to the left are selected Navy Thanksgiving menus from the Naval History and Heritage Command’s collections that span the first half of the 20th century.

Although some dishes (“Mayonnaise Salad” on battleship Arizona in 1917; “Baked Spiced Spam à la Capitaine de Vaisseau” on cruiser Augusta in 1942) have not transcended time and post-dinner cigars and cigarettes have also been left pierside, roast turkey, baked ham, and pumpkin pie have been the anchors of nearly every Thanksgiving feast at sea or on shore to the present day.

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Celebrating the Histo Navy Ch Ships Named For Navy Chaplains • • • • • •

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USS Schimtt (DE 676) USS Kirkpatrick (DE 318) USS O’Callahan (FF 1051) USS Capodanno (FF 1093) USS Rentz (FFG 46) USS Laboon (DDG 58)

ory and Heritage of haplains The history of the Chaplain Corps of the U.S. Navy parallels the history of the Navy, itself. During the past century-anda-half, chaplains of the Navy have shared the hardships and rewards that come to other naval personnel and have ministered to these in many ways.

The chronicle of the activities of these padres of the sea — representing many religions and denominations — began with the Continental Navy and carry on to the present day.

On 28 November, we celebrate the 244th anniversary of the United States Navy Chaplain Corps. Since 1775, Navy chaplains have championed religious freedom in the unique environment of the Naval Services and have labored to steel the spirits of all Marines and Sailors who defend our Nation at and from the sea.

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CHAPLAIN’S CORNER

On November 28, 2020, the Chaplain Corps of the United States Navy will celebrate its 245th Birthday.

After the Continental Congress authorized the establishment of the Continental Navy, Congress began developing regulations which would govern the new Navy.

On November 28, 1775 Congress adopted the second article of the Navy regulations which read, “The Commanders of the ships of the thirteen United Colonies, are to take care that divine service be performed twice a day on board, and a sermon preached on Sundays, unless bad weather or other extraordinary accidents prevent.” With the adoption of that phrase, the Chaplain Corps of the United States Navy was born.

The first mention of a chaplain in the Journals of the Continental Congress occurs on 6 January 1776 when Congress passed a resolution regarding the distribution of prize money.

Over the last 245 years, Navy Chaplains have served with distinction throughout Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Joint commands.

A few notable chaplains include: • Benjamin Balch - the first known chaplain to serve in the Continental Navy.

• John Lenhart - while serving during the Civil War, became the first Navy chaplain to lose his life in battle.

• Aloysius Schmitt - was the first chaplain to die in World War II, perishing while on board USS Oklahoma during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

• Joseph O’Callahan - the Chaplain aboard USS Franklin during World War II, became the first of two Navy Chaplains to be awarded the Medal of Honor.

• Vincent Capodanno - served during the Vietnam War and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

Watch our Facebook page for event information.

A CREDO date night as well as a suicide intervention workshop are in the plans for November.

The Chapel’s Annual Christmas Celebration is scheduled for 6 December.

Stay tuned for additional information.

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Branch Health Clinic Atsugi For Appointments: 264-3311 or 0467-63-3311

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The Final Word WITH NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI COMMANDING OFFICER

CAPT. J. M. MONTAGNET NAFA team and community, As most of you are aware, we have been able to relax some local travel measures that has resulted in a greater volume of folks PCS’ing in from the United States. That means, in some cases, we’ve been importing ideas and attitudes from the U.S. where some folks are questioning our health protective measures. So, it might take some recalibration for newly arriving personnel to help them understand and appreciate our protective measures. We are looking to our experienced Sailors and civilian leadership to help ensure newly arriving folks recognize and understand the need to comply 100 percent with all of our protective measures. Meanwhile, at the same time, everyone needs to avoid COVID fatigue which can result in folks independently choosing to relax health measures, compromise travel restrictions, and engage in unauthorized activities.

Remember, we don’t have the option of experimenting with differing social measures. We have a singular commitment to three primary goals: sustain operational capability, protect service members and their families, and prevent further spread. Complacency is not an option. Also, folks are getting out more and choosing to drive more frequently than they may have in the past seven months. As we get deeper into autumn, it gets darker far more early. Plus, a change in temperature and the off-andon rainy weather makes driving more tricky on slicker road surfaces. So, our message to everyone is - wherever you drive - slow down, drive carefully, and give yourself reasonable time to get to your destination.

Finally, with the holidays fast approaching, and folks explore gathering with family and friends, remember again to comply with health protective measures and the three W’s: Watch your distance, wash your hands frequently, and wear your mask. Stay safe and COVID-free!

CAPT John M. Montagnet Commanding Officer U.S. Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan

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