September 14, 2012 The Signature

THE

SIGNATURE SIGONELLA, SICILY

VOL. 29 NO. 34

SEPTEMBER 14, 2012

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Naval Air Station Sigonella remembers ...

During the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella September 11 Remembrance Ceremony, FY13 chief petty officer (selects) presented two memorial wreaths in honor of the lives lost and the lives forever changed by the September 11, 2001 terrorists attacks. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox/Released)

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mericans gathered at the World Trade Center site in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington D.C., the site of the Flight 93 crash in Shanksville, Pa., across the United States, and across the world including Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella in Sicily to honor the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

BY MCSN JULIE COX NAS Sigonella Public Affairs continued on page 8

QUOTE

OF THE WEEK

“Honor never grows old, and honor rejoices the heart of age. It does so because honor is, finally, about defending those noble and worthy things that deserve defending, even if it comes at a high cost. In our time, that may mean social disapproval, public scorn, hardship, persecution, or as always, even death itself. The question remains: What is worth defending? What is worth dying for? What is worth living for?”

- William J. Bennett United States Naval Academy, November 24, 1997

VP-9 honored

Festival in Acireale

Meet Coco Faber

VP-9 receives volunteer award for work in Catania.

Arts and crafts festival going on now.

Comic strip artist shares his creative talents.

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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella

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SEPTEMBER

14, 2012

THE SIGNATURE U.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella Capt. Scott Butler, Commanding Officer Cmdr. Eric Vosler, Executive Officer CMDCM David Graham, Command Master Chief

EDITORIAL Lt. Tim Page, Public Affairs Officer timothy.page@eu.navy.mil

Dott. Alberto Lunetta, Community Relations Officer alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil

Jackie Trembath, Editor jackie.trembath@eu.navy.mil

STAFF Writers/Photographers MC1 Christopher Delano christopher.delano@eu.navy.mil MR1 Gary Spence gwspence2003@hotmail.com MM2 Johnnathan Archbold johnnathan.archbold@eu.navy.mil MC2 Gary Prill gary.prill@eu.navy.mil MC3 Brian Glunt brian.glunt@eu.navy.mil MCSN Cameron Bramham cameron.bramham@eu.navy.mil MCSN Julie Cox juliekcox6@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING Writers/Photographers HM2 Matthew Clutter PS2 Jose “Coco” Faber

CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627

PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler I want to start by offering my most sincere congratulations to all of the newly-pinned chief petty officers here in Sigonella – and around the world. Your new position represents the continuation of a journey that I know has not always been easy. You have likely spent deployments away from home, family and friends. You’ve missed birthdays, holidays and many other important events in your life and that of your family. You’ve worked late nights, stood thankless watches, and endured hardships that many cannot begin to understand. But now each of you has earned the right to be called “chief.” That title is one of which you should be incredibly proud, but it comes with greater responsibilities, as you will see every day for the rest of your career. Just as the Chief Petty Officer Creed states, “Your entire way of life has now been changed.

More will be expected of you; more will be demanded of you. Not because you are an E-7, but because you are now a chief petty officer.” Congratulations, chiefs!

Next week, the Sigonella Community will host visitors from the Navy Inspector General’s Office. These folks are here to conduct a Quality of Life assist visit and I ask that all of you take the time to welcome them to our Community and, if able, share your views with them regarding the issues you find most important here. They are truly interested in your thoughts about serving overseas – the benefits as well as the challenges – and only through your candid assessments can they hope to provide effective advocacy to political and military leadership back in the States. Please, take the time to make sure your voice is heard.

We received so many questions for September’s Feedback Live that we couldn’t cover them all during the show, so I’ll use the next few Direct Line columns to answer them. Your questions are very important to

me, and I encourage you to keep sending them via email. Remember that Feedback Live is a LIVE call in show – if time permits, you can get your question answered on the spot. The show is held on the first Thursday of each month, from 6:30 – 7 p.m. To call in live on the show, please dial 624-4265 or 095-56-4265.

Why wasn't the community notified of the rule change at MVRO that only three vehicles total can be registered during a member's tour? I bought a new car from NEX Car Sales only to be told I can't register it on-base because I have already had my full allotment of cars registered here.

I’m not terribly happy that I have a car I can't register, can't drive and I haven't got a clue how I will ship it out at the end of my tour - if I even can since it cannot be registered on base.

This was not a rule change, but a reiteration of a rule that has been around for a long time. Following a recent inspection of MVROs throughout Italy, Navy leadership felt it important to reemphasize this rule. Waivers and exceptions can, however, be made on a case-by-case basis. Please visit MVRO and talk with Mr. Jim Thompson who will be happy to help you find a solution.

Why does the Base Communications Office (BCO) only accept cash? It can be frustrating to make sure you have the right amount of cash in such large sums. I would think the BCO would have the ability to use credit cards. Thank you!

The BCO accepts cash, checks and money orders, and the amount doesn't need to be paid in person at the cashier’s window -- it can be mailed through the Military Postal Service (MPS) and avoid any reason to stand in lines. In fact, I pay my bill every month through a USAA electronic check. If you choose to pay in per-

Q

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son using cash, the BCO can give you change back, so you really don’t need the exact amount. In addition, the BCO is investigating the possibility of payment via the web (MyPay.Gov) and/or credit cards on government/private banking systems and deposit accounts.

When will the 2012-2013 Holiday Leave Policy be approved and released? Last year’s policy was signed July 26, 2011. I'm planning a five family trip to Edelweiss and as a lot of us know they are busy that time of year. I cannot finalize the plans until I know the dates we are restricted to.

The holiday leave policy was approved and released last week. The two holiday leave periods will be December 12-28 December 28 - January 14. Exceptions to this policy will be considered on a case-bycase basis and may be approved by the department head. Each department must maintain a minimum of 50 percent manning through the holiday leave period. Have fun at Edelweiss!

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This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., 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, sex,national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy - Tel. 081-568-7884, Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

DRIVE SAFELY

stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 – Fax 081-568-7887

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Around NAS Sigonella ...

NEX Sigonella salutes CPO (selects) The Navy Exchange (NEX) Sigonella celebrated Sigonella chief petty officer (selects), their families and sponsor during the NEX Night event, September 6.

Chief (selects) were joined by Command Master Chief David Graham (center) and NEX Sigonella General Manager Ron Dahl (far right). (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox/Released)

Rotary Club Catania Duomo 150 President Dr. Angelo Alaimo presents Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 representative Lt. Cmdr.

Dave Aliberti with an outstanding volunteer award during the "Catania da Amare" annual event. (Photo by Pino Cosentino)

VP-9 honored with volunteer award

BY DOTT. ALBERTO LUNETTA NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Rotary Club Catania Duomo 150 President Dr. Angelo Alaimo and Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 representative Lt. Cmdr. Dave Aliberti exchanged outstanding volunteer awards during the "Catania da Amare" annual event. The event, hosted by the cities of Catania and Sant’ Agata Li Battiati and the Catania Soccer and Rotary Clubs recognized outstanding volunteer work and citizens, organizations, media and athletes whose efforts contribute to the enhancement of Catania and its cultural heritage.

Service members from Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 and Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force

(SPMAGTF) 12.2 (deployed to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella) participated in an historical cleaning and beautification project on June 23 in Catania.

The project was part of a community relations (COMREL) event headed up by service members from VP- 9 and focused on cleaning an area in the center of Catania that holds the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, thermal baths and road. This was the first time in NAS Sigonella history (base opened in 1959) that U.S. military personnel were involved in cleaning an historic archeological site in Sicily.

(U.S. Navy photo by MR1 Gary Spence/Released)

Sigonella Jaguars open 2012 season

BY MR1 GARY SPENCE NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

The Sigonella Jaguars opened their 2012 football season Saturday, September 8 against the Rota Admirals at the Annex field on NAS I. Despite a loss in their first game of the season, it was a victory for the school and community as a whole as 2012 marks the return of football to Sigonella high school. Due to a player shortage in 2011, the school was forced to cut their season short. Head Coach Matt McKown was proud to get his boys back on the field and get the season started. “It was awesome to get back out there. Our objectives were to just have everyone play to the end, have nobody quit, to play competitive, and to have fun.” Their next game is on the road against Baumholder in Naples on September 15.

CPO (selects) volunteer in Librino

(U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox/Released)

On September 5, chief petty officers and chief (selects) volunteered for a community relations (COMREL) project at the Talita Kum Catholic Charity which supports disadvantaged children in the town of Librino. Chief(select) Ingry Lopez (left) assisted with washing one of the many windows at the facility.

“Being in this training helps us become better leaders," Lopez said. " [volunteering] shows the community and the Sailors that we are here together to help each other out."

Volunteers from VP-9 and SPMAGTF 12.2 pose for a group photo along with Catania Rotary Club 150 official Dott. Maurizio Catania, his wife Mariella Perconti, Italian Army General (ret.) Francesco Polizzi and Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Community Relations Officer Alberto Lunetta, at the end of the cleanup effort which marked the first ever U.S. military volunteer project at archeological sites in Sicily, June 23. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Patrol Squadron 9/Released)

Sexual Assault Prevention Hotlines DoD SAFE Helpline: 001-877-995-5247 (From cell phones and off-base telephones) Sigonella SAPR VA Hotline:335-642-8312 Or:19020 (toll-free access code) 877-995-5247 (From DSN lines)

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY

September

14 Liberty Dinner at Oxidiana

2012

MONDAY

TUESDAY 18

17

WEDNESDAY 19

THURSDAY 20 Bowling 2 for 1 Karaoke Jox Pub

Connections Talk Like a Pirate Day

25

24 Bowling $1 Day

26

27

Tobacco Cessation Class NAS I Midtown Classroom 2 - 3 p.m.

21

22 NO SCHOOL

ITT Siracusa

23

Dueling Pianos Noel & Dan Jox Pub

Taormina & Isola Bella

Sigonella Golf Tournament

Youth Complex Family Toboggan Trip

Liberty Bowling Challenge

Connections Ice Cream Cone Day

28 Bowling 2 for 1

Take 5 Empty Wallet Lunch

Karaoke Jox Pub

Liberty Dinner at Paradise Pizza

ITT Lipari Express

ITT Circumetnea Antique Train Adventure

Outdoor Rec Marzamemi Boat Tour

by Night Youth Complex Family Toboggan Trip

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29 Outdoor Rec Bike Trip from Portopalo to Cassibile

ITT Bronte Pistacchio Festival

Cosmic Bowling

Outdoor Rec Kayak Giardini Naxo & Taormina by Night

Jox Pub Texas Hold’em Jox Pub Weekend Dance Party

Connections Coffee House & Open Mic Night

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396

16

Healthy Pregnancy Healthy Baby Class 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Mountain Bike to Etna Park & BBQ

Jox Pub Texas Hold’em

Bowling $1 Day

SUNDAY

Outdoor Rec Hike Lamponi’s Cave & BBQ

Tobacco Cessation Class NAS I Midtown Classroom 2 - 3 p.m.

Take 5 Animated Movie Marathon

SATURDAY 15

Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248

FFSC: x4291 American Red Cross: x4900

Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!

Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624CARE (2273) or commercial 095-56-2273, M-F: 7:30 a.m.

- 4 p.m.

For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, a holiday or after office hours, please call 335578-8077 if you are normally seen at the hospital or 335578-8150 if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.

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PAGE 5 Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Bldg.

Bldg. 319 (NAS I)

Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

DSN 624-4291 Commercial 095-56-4291

The Ombudsman program benefits you An ombudsman's primary duties involve providing information and referrals to command families. Whether it's an issue involving deployment, finances, navigating the Navy system, or relocation, ombudsmen can guide families in the right direction.

Ombudsmen also work to improve communication between the command and the command's family members, and are motivated by a sincere desire to serve others and their country. In addition, ombudsmen are available to help families in times of crisis, such as during natural disasters. Your ombudsman can help you and your family by: Referring you to appropriate resources for professional services. While ombudsmen aren't counselors, they can provide referral information to professional counseling services, if necessary. They can also provide referral information to a wide variety of other helpful resources, including the Fleet and Family Support Center, the American Red Cross, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Military OneSource, chaplains, medical facilities, and legal assistance offices. Whether your issue involves deployment, child care, education, stress, parenting, or relocation, your ombudsman can help you find the information and services you need.

Serving as an information communicator. An ombudsman serves as a channel of official information from the command to command families. Ombudsmen regularly relay timely and critical information -- such as squadron schedule changes -- via newsletters, care lines, telephone trees, and e-mail messages.

Serving as an advocate. Ombudsmen act as advocates for command families. They use their knowledge of the system to access the appropriate level of the chain of command for intervention purposes. They may then forward suitable requests or concerns to the command.

Providing support during deployments. Navy ombudsmen serve as key resources for command family members, allowing them to successfully meet the challenges they face before, during, and after deployments. They keep current resource files with information on military and civilian community agencies that can help families with deployment matters. They also publish or contribute to command newsletters and maintain an email contact listing that relay important information from the command.

Responding during emergencies. Ombudsmen provide initial assistance and information, and ongoing support, during crisis situations.

Article referenced from Military OneSource

Ombudsman from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella and the tenant commands: AIMD: Retna Shaw, 624-1669 ETD: Yolanda Sais, 339-784-5231 FLC: Erin Work, 342-169-5547 Global Hawk: Suni Medina, 095-276-311 NASSIG: Alexandria Lindert, 349-462-4322 NAVHOSP: Jacqueline Arthur-Baidoo, 095-831-5176 NAVHOSP: Jenny Raisanen, 624-1283 NAVHOSP: Amber Wolf, 624-1287 NAVHOSP: John Youberg, 624-1476 NCIS: Jess Meares, 624-1381 NCTS: Julie Ferris, 335-135-0325 NMC: Jennifer Patton, 342-723-1450 PWD: Carla Reaves, 342-012-2176 Ombudsman Assembly Chairman: Amanda Duenes 348-259-1389 Ombudsman Coordinator: Agata Carnazza, 624-4291

Do you want to quit tobacco but don't want to do it alone?

Join Health Promotion's 4-week Tobacco Cessation Class and learn how to kick the habit for good.

Wednesday's, through September 26, from 2 - 3 p.m.

NAS I Midtown Classroom To register or for more information about one-on-one appointments call 624-4710.

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World War II veteran, 95, who buried comrade on battlefield in Sicily leads call for proper funeral

When the friends of British Lance Sergeant Sydney Swift visited the Catania War Cemetery in Sicily, Italy, they could not find any headstone for Rifleman Horace Savage (Daily Mail). (Photo by www.cwgc.org)

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searched his name and realized it was on the Cassino Memorial as 'no known grave'. Well, I know where his grave is because I buried him in a ditch that we were holding as a position. It was the only time I have buried somebody in my life. I am hardly likely to forget it. I put a marker on the grave. He must still be there. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission have told me that if a body is discovered they can arrange for a proper burial and a headstone. Somebody needs to go and find him for that to happen. He needs a proper burial and proper grave."

The three men were killed when a 16-man patrol was sent out towards high ground in Catania to make contact with the Germans. As they neared the enemy line German machine guns opened up.

Swift and a stretcher bearer recovered a mortally-wounded Savage and carried him back to a dressing station 400 yards away, where he died a few minutes later.

"The men had been mown down by machine gun fire and Savage had been shot," Swift said. "Two stretcher bearers were told to recover him but one of them was too frightened so I went.

The Germans were very fair and didn’t fire on us and allowed us to bring Savage back to the ambulance. He was in a lot of pain and was delirious.

We couldn’t do anything for him and he died at the ambulance. We buried him out of sight in the ditch.

I was very upset as he was a friend and it was probably due to the trauma that I forgot to take his identity tags and personal possessions of him. I think he had a ring on his finger. I don’t know why he wasn’t found."

Details of where dead soldiers ended up were often recorded contemporaneously in the regimental war diaries.

After the fighting had moved on or even after the war had finished the Commonwealth War Graves Commission located as many men as possible and buried them in local war cemeteries.

But due to the ‘fog of war’, the records were sometimes missing or incomplete and many men were forgotten about.

London Irish Regimental Association spokesman Nigel Wilkinson said, "Mr. Swift believes that he can still locate Savage’s grave and desperately wants to see his comrade buried beside his friends before he dies.

It is right that he should be properly buried."

Peter Francis, of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission said that if a set of remains were discovered and confirmed to be a Commonwealth serviceman they would be presented for proper burial.

"We would mark the grave and care for it.’

(Story by Daily Mail)

F

or seven decades Sydney Swift believed the soldier he buried in a battlefield after his death in front of him was given a proper military funeral and headstone in a cemetery.

But when the 95-year-old British Lance Sergeant’s friends visited the Catania War Cemetery in Sicily, Italy, they could not find any memorial for Rifleman Horace Savage.

The soldier was first buried in unmarked graves along with Rifleman Edwin Pearton and Lance Cpl. John Biggs, close to where the three men fell during World War II in July 1943.

After the war, the bodies of Pearton and Biggs were exhumed and they were given a military funeral and headstone at the Sicily cemetery.

It had been presumed that Rifleman Savage was also re-buried there after a funeral following his death at Primosole Bridge in Catania, which preceded the mainland Allied Invasion of Italy.

So when friends told Swift they were visiting the cemetery, the great-grandfather asked them to leave flowers on the grave of Savage.

But they found no headstone for the soldier.

This prompted an investigation by Swift, who found his fallen comrade’s name on the Cassino Memorial at the Cassino War Cemetery in Frosinone.

This site is 370 miles from Sicily on mainland Italy and lists more than 4,000 commonwealth soldiers who took part in the Italian campaign but whose graves are not known.

Now, despite the passing of seven decades, Swift said he can pinpoint to within a few yards the location of the grave he placed the serviceman in with the help of a stretcher bearer.

With the London Irish Rifles Regimental Association’s backing, he is urging Italian authorities and the Commonwealth War Grave Commission to now bury Savage with full military honors.

They also want to trace the family of Savage, who was in the 1st battalion London Irish Rifles.

"Last year friends of mine were going to Sicily and asked them to look up the three men killed in action at Primisole Bridge in Catania," said Swift. "They came back and said they had only found two graves. We re-

IT! JUSticTe ySouAr Y Italian Prac

English: rose Italian: rosa English: daisy Italian: margherita

English: lily Italian: giglio English: magnolia Italian: magnòlia English: tulip Italian: tulipano English: orchid Italian: orchidèa

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PAGE 7

Sigonella Fiat 500 Club participates in local event

Members of Sigonella Fiat 500 Club attend local event featuring the cinquecento.

(Photo courtesy of Sigonella Fiat 500 Club)

The Fiat 500 Club of Sigonella attended a twoday rally sponsored by the cities of Belpasso and Paterno. More than 300 car enthusiasts participated. People lined the streets and round-abouts to video tape and photograph their favorite cars. The Sigonella Fiat 500 Club received a group participation plaque from the Fiat 500 Chapter President Davide Cappadonna. For more information, visit the "Sigonella Fiat 500 Club" on Facebook.

The Fiat 500 (Italian: cinquecento) is a car produced by the Fiat company of Italy between 1957 and 1975, designed by Dante Giacosa. It was marketed as a cheap and practical town car, measuring only three meters (10 feet) long, and originally powered by a tiny 479 cc two-cylinder, air-cooled engine.

More than 300 cinquecentos were on display during the two-day event. (Photo courtesy of Sigonella Fiat 500 Club)

Fiera dello Ionio in Acireale

Bring the whole family for some fall fun. The Fiera dello Ionio is happening in Acireale at the Corso Italia (historic center) now through Monday, September 17.

More than 200 booths feature a wide selection of food and arts and crafts.

Admission is free. Hours: Monday Friday, Saturday and Monday from 5 p.m. to midnight, Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to midnight.

Man fined for hit-andrun murder of cat

Committee seeks return of Mona Lisa from Louvre; More than 150,000 signed petition for painting to go back to origins

(ANSA)

(ANSA)

Savona - A man was fined 1,559 euros for the hit-andrun murder of a cat in the Ligurian city of Savona, the National Association for the Protection of Animals (Enpa) said last Thursday.

Witnesses called authorities with the man's license plate when he fled the scene without stopping after striking the cat as it crossed the road.

Police located the man and he was issued the fine.

Florence - Pressure is building for the return of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous portrait, the Mona Lisa, to the city of Florence from the Louvre Museum in Paris.

A campaign launched by the National Committee for Historical, Cultural and Environmental Heritage together with the Province of Florence has garnered 150,000 signatories petitioning for the return of the painting in 2013.

The return would be of "high historical value, both symbolic and moral," Committee President Silvano Vincenti said.

"The committee has oďŹƒcially submitted a request for a meeting with the new French minister of culture, Aurelie Filippetti. I am convinced that, thanks to the minister's Italian origins, she will not only respond positively to our request, she will understand its motives," said Vincenti.

The painting depicts the figure of a woman with an enigmatic facial expression, seated before a visionary landscape, and is seen by millions of visitors every year.

The Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre in 1911 by robbers dressed as Louvre janitors.

It was recovered two years later inside Italian waiter Vincenzo Peruggia's hotel room in Florence.

The painting was exhibited briefly in the UďŹƒzi and in Rome before it was returned to the Louvre.

The committee spearheading the return campaign is also behind the search team that believes they may have found a skeleton belonging to the model, Lisa Gherardini del Giocondo (1469-1542), known as the Mona Lisa.

The painting in Italian is called 'La Gioconda' after the subject of the portrait

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Naval Air Station Sigonella re

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella held a September 11 Remembrance Ceremony honoring the lives lost and lives forever changed by the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox/Released) Remember, continued from page 1

NAS Sigonella community members joined together for a September 11th Remembrance Ceremony at the Midtown Plaza on NAS I. "We take a moment out of our busy schedules and think about what this day means to our country, to our people, to our world and we move on from there; stronger, united and together,” said NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler.

Ceremony guest speaker, Senior Chief Aviation Machinist's Mate Alex Lymber, a native New Yorker, shared his memories of that tragic day.

"The morning was business as usual," said Lymber. "What seemed to begin as a routine day of work for myself and many other Americans, would unfortunately turn out to be the worst,

deadliest attack against the United States, since the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941."

Like millions of other Americans, Lymber recollects exactly what he was doing on that September morning.

"I can still recall that moment as if it were yesterday, burnt into my memory for a lifetime. The north tower was in flames.

I asked myself, how could this have happened. Moments later as we watched the north tower burning, the second aircraft [impacted] the south tower."

September 11 is a day that will never be forgotten, a day when innocent lives were lost and lives forever changed. In remembrance, NAS Sigonella FY13 chief petty officer (selects) presented two red, white and blue wreaths.

"The wreaths symbolize a circle of eternal life for the spirits of those who lost their lives on 9/11," said Master-at-Arms

Chief (select) Glenn Wade. "They represent strength and togetherness for the people we lost that day and in the days since, fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, so that we may never forget their sacrifice."

More than 8,000 people have died since 9/11, whether civilians, soldiers, sailors, airmen or marines.

"My children, many of our children have never known a time without war," said Butler. "We have stuck together as Americans, as a world-wide populous, and we have fought back proudly, strongly and together against what I truly view as evil."

Because of the power of the American spirit, the true legacy of 9/11 will not be one of fear or hate.

As President Obama said as he spoke at the Pentagon, "It will be a safer world, a stronger nation, and a people more united than ever before."

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PAGE 9

emembers ...

Morale, Welfare and Recreation, Sigonella hosted the "Courtesy of the Red, White & Blue" prisoner of war/missing in action remembrance run on September 7. Four hundred and forty members of the Sigonella community participated in the 5K run/1 mile walk.

(U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox/Released)

WASHINGTON (Sept. 11, 2008) The American Flag drapes over the side of the Pentagon signifying where American Airlines flight 77 crashed into the building, killing 59 people aboard the plane and 125 inside the Pentagon in 2001. The flag was draped for a Memorial Dedication Ceremony hosted by Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates, for those who lost their lives that day. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Molly A. Burgess/Released)

President proclaims Patriot Day, Day of Remembrance From American Forces Press Service

The Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Swordfish opened up the season with a special 9/11 remembrance swim meet hosting the Tiger sharks from Naples. The meet consisted of 40 individual and relay events. (U.S. Navy photos by Lt. Tim Page/Released)

The Religious Ministries Department hosted a special Patriots Day Concert in remembrance of 9/11. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox/Released)

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- President Barack Obama signed a proclamation designating the 11th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States as Patriot Day and National Day of Remembrance.

Here is the president's proclamation: On September 11, 2001, a bright autumn day was darkened by the worst attack on the American people in our history. Thousands of innocent men, women, and children perished when mighty towers collapsed in the heart of New York City and wreckage burned in Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon. They were family and friends, service members and first responders -- and the tragedy of their loss left pain that will never fade and scars our country will never forget.

More than a decade later, the world we live in is forever changed. But as we mark the anniversary of September 11, we remember what remains the same: our character as a Nation, our faith in one another, and our legacy as a country strengthened by service and selflessness. In the spirit that moved rescue workers and firefighters to charge into darkness and danger that September morning, we see the same sense of moral responsibility that drove countless Americans to give of themselves in the months that followed. We oered our neighbors a hand and lined up to give blood.

Many helped our Nation rebuild and recover long after the dust had settled, donating and volunteering and helping survivors who had borne so much. We were united, and the outpouring of generosity reminded us that, through challenges that have spanned from acts of terrorism to natural disasters, we go forward together as one people.

Today, as we remember the victims, their families, and the heroes who stood up during one of our country's darkest moments, I invite all Americans to reclaim that abiding spirit of compassion by serving their communities in the days and weeks ahead. From volunteering with a faithbased organization, to collecting food and clothing for those in need, to preparing care packages for our men and women in uniform, there are many ways to bring service

into our everyday lives -- and each of us can do something.

To get involved and find a local service opportunity, visit www.Serve.gov, or www.Servir.gov for Spanish speakers.

Even the simplest act of kindness can be a way to honor those we have lost, and to help build stronger communities and a more resilient Nation. By joining together on this solemn anniversary, let us show that America's sense of common purpose need not be a fleeting moment, but a lasting virtue -- not just on one day, but every day.

By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day," and by Public Law 111-13, approved April 21, 2009, the Congress has requested the observance of September 11 as an annually recognized "National Day of Service and Remembrance."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2012, as Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance. I call upon all departments, agencies, and instrumentalities of the United States to display the flag of the United States at half-sta on Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance in honor of the individuals who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. I invite the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and interested organizations and individuals to join in this observance. I call upon the people of the United States to participate in community service in honor of those our Nation lost, to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities, including remembrance services, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time to honor the innocent victims who perished as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twelve, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-seventh.

- BARACK OBAMA

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SEPTEMBER

Meet Coco Faber R

elatively new to Sicily, Personnel Specialist Second Class Jose "Coco" Faber of Executive Transport Detachment (ETD) shares his artistic talent with Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella as the creator of the "Field Day" comic strip. The comic illustrates the day-to-day life of military members. An active duty Sailor for the past eight years, Faber began creating comic strips about four years ago when he was stationed in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and even published a book titled Egg Samples.

PS2 Jose “Coco” Faber displays a few of the sketches used in creation of his comic strips. (U.S. Navy photo by MCSN Julie Cox)

Q: Where did the name "Coco" come from?

A: My middle name is Ricco. People starting calling me Coco and it stuck.

Q: How long have you been drawing comics?

A:I've been drawing since I was 8-years-old, but started drawing comics about four years ago when I was stationed IA in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I drew a comic strip called "Sherman the Iguana," named after Sherman Avenue where all the iguanas hang out.

Field Day comic started when I checked in to NAS Sigonella.

Q: How do you develop your characters?

A:I base them on people I meet, their personalities and what they think or I see them as. Sometimes, I make them up, but mostly they are after people I worked with. For example, the German Shepherd is after AWFC Trembath, the white tiger after PS1 Clark, the chicken after myself, the rhino after PR2 Stafford,

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BY JACKIE TREMBATH NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

the turtle after IT2 Lee and the red bull after AWF1 Maust.

Q:What is your process for creating comic strips?

A:I draw on little 4x6 index cards. They easier to carry so I can draw anywhere. Then I scan them and color them with Photoshop.

Q:How long does it take you to draw a comic?

A:The drawings takes 2-5 minutes, but the coloring about 10 -15 depending on how many frames.

Q:What do you love most about creating comics?

A:I love seeing people enjoy the humor, walking into a room and hearing the laughs and giggles.

Friday, 14 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Apple Fritters. *Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Fried/Baked Pollok Fish, Pork Chop , Mushroom Gravy, Steamed Rice, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Fried Cauliflower, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.

Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Farfalle al Ragu’, Pork Fried Rice, Steamed Whole Corn, Seasoned Spinach, Lemon Cookies, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Cream Pudding.

Tuesday, 18 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Blueberry Muffins. *Lunch: Cream of Asparagus Soup, BBQ Spareribs, Southern Fried Chicken, Chicken Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Hopping John, Corn on the Cob, Southern Style Greens, Jalapeno Corn Bread, German Chocolate Cake, Cherry Pie. *Speed line: Corn Dog, Onion Rings.

Dinner: Beef Rice Soup, Sauerbraten, Lasagna, Lyonnaise Rice, Vegetable Stir Fry, Steamed Asparagus, Brown Gravy, German Chocolate Cake, Cherry Pie .

Saturday, 15 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Butterhorns. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Beef Vegetable Soup, Chicken Nuggets, French Fries, Mixed Vegetables, Broccoli, Sweet & Sour Sauce, Chocolate Drop Cookies, Apple Crisp. *Dinner: Manhattan Clam Chowder, El Rancho Stew, Spaghetti Carbonara, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Steamed Rice, Green Kale, Peas & Mushroom, Chocolate Drop Cookies, Apple Crisp.

Wednesday, 19 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Bear Claw. *Lunch: Beef Vegetable Soup, Breaded Pork Steaks, Savory Baked Chicken, Potatoes Au Gratin, Oriental Rice, Cauliflowers, Tangy Spinach, Cherry Cheese Cake, Chewy Nut Bars, Cream Puffs. *Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Fish Portion, Spaghetti w/Meat Sauce, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Peas & Carrots, Wax Beans, Cherry Cheese Cake, Chewy Nut Bars, Cream Puffs.

Sunday, 16 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, French Toast Puff, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Asstd Doughnuts, Kolaches. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Bean & Bacon Soup, Breaded Pork Chop, Italian Roasted Potatoes, Seasoned Green Beans, Glazed Carrots, Yellow Cake w/ Frosting, Hermits. *Dinner: Split Pea Soup, Turkey Ala King, Aztec Rice, Fish Portion, Black-eye Peas, Fried Cauliflower, Yellow Cake w/ Frosting, Hermits.

Thursday, 20 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Asst Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Raisin Muffin. *Lunch: Onion Soup, Asian Barbecue Turkey, Beef Stroganoff, Mashed Potatoes, Boiled Pasta, Chicken Gravy, Mix Vegetables, Simmered Cauliflower, Vanilla Cookies, Devil’s Food Cake.

Speedline: Assorted Pizza..

Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Meat Loaf, Breaded Pork Chop, Oven Browned Potatoes, Corn O’ Brien, Simmered Carrots, Vanilla Cookies, Devil’s Food Cake.

Monday, 17 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Minced Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Streusel Coffee Cake. *Lunch: Chicken Noodle Soup, Rosemary Roast Turkey, Baked Fish, Mashed Potatoes, Summer Squash, Steamed Peas, Turkey Gravy, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Banana Cake, Dutch Apple Pie. *Speed line: Pizza *Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Linguine Carbonara, Baked Chicken Quartered , Baked Potatoes, Collard Greens, Calico Cabbage, Brown Gravy, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Banana Cake, Dutch Apple Pie .

Friday, 21 SEP 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Links, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Lasagna, Tempura Fish, Baked Fish, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Herbed Broccoli, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin.

Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Cacciatore, Farfalle Seafood, Rice Pilaf, Southern Green Beans, Savory Squash, Strawberry Cake, Lemon Meringue Pie, Fruit Gelatin.

SEPTEMBER

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14, 2012

Midtown Movie theaters SCHEDuLE & DESCRIPTIONS Wednesday, September 19 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Amazing Spider-Man Ice Age 4 Witness Protection Seeking A Friend

PG-13 PG PG-13 R

Thursday, September 20 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Friday, September 14 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Dark Knight Rises Witness Protection Seeking A Friend Magic Mike

PG-13 PG-13 R R

Saturday, September 15 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

Ice Age 4 People Like Us Witness Protection Seeking A Friend Magic Mike

PG PG-13 PG-13 R R

Sunday, September 16 2:00 PM Amazing Spider-Man 2:30 PM Ice Age 4 4:30 PM Magic Mike 5:00 PM Expendables 2 7:30 PM Dark Knight Rises

PG-13 PG R R PG-13

Tuesday, September 18 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Dark Knight Rises People Like Us Magic Mike Expendables 2

PG-13 PG-13 R R

Witness Protection Seeking A Friend Magic Mike Abe: Vampire Hunter

PG-13 R R R

Friday, September 21 2:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

The Sandlot Moonrise Kingdom People Like Us Savages Magic Mike

PG PG-13 PG-13 R R

Saturday, September 22 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

Dark Knight Rises Ice Age 4 Moonrise Kingdrom Magic Mike Savages

PG-13 PG PG-13 R R

THE EXPENDABLES 2……………R STARRING:Sylvester Stallone, Liam Hemsworth and Randy Couture

Mr. Church reunites the Expendables for what should be an easy paycheck, but when one of their men is murdered on the job, their quest for revenge puts them deep in enemy territory and up against an unexpected threat.

(102 m.)

MAGIC MIKE………………….…R STARRING:Channing Tatum, Alex Pettyfer and Olivia Munn

A male stripper teaches a younger performer how to party, pick up women, and make easy money. (110 m.)

MOONRISE KINGDOM….PG-13 STARRING:Jared Gilman, Kara Hayward and Bruce Willis

A pair of young lovers flee their New England town, which causes a local search party to fan out and find them. (94 m.)

Sunday, September 23 2:00 PM Witness Protection 2:30 PM Moonrise Kingdrom 4:30 PM People Like Us 5:00 PM Savages 7:30 PM Seeking A Friend

GREEN RED BLuE

PG-13 PG-13 PG-13 R R

SAVAGES………………………….….R STARRING: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Taylor Kitsch and Blake Lively

Pot growers Ben and Chon face off against the Mexican drug cartel who kidnapped their shared girlfriend. (131 m.)

PREMIER LAST SHOW FREE MOVIE

Coming soon ...

Step Up Revolution 2D & 3D, The Watch, Diary of A Wimpy Kid: Dog Days, Hope Springs. Avatar 3D, Lorax 2D & 3D

Movie schedule is subject to change.

Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

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Find the words!

GAME WASHINGTON J ADAMS JEFFERSON MADISON MONROE J Q ADAMS JACKSON VAN BuREN W HARRISON TYLER POLK TAYLOR FILLMORE PIERCE BuCHANAN LINCOLN A JOHNSON GRANT HAYES GARFIELD ARTHuR CLEVELAND

HARRISON MCKINLEY T ROOSEVELT TAFT WILSON HARDING COOLIDGE HOOVER F D ROOSEVELT TRuMAN EISENHOWER KENNEDY L JOHNSON NIXON FORD CARTER REAGAN G H W BuSH CLINTON G W BuSH OBAMA

SEPTEMBER

14, 2012

SEPTEMBER

14, 2012

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Sudoku!

Did you know?

Oak trees don’t produce acorns until they are 50 years or older.

Pogonophobia is the fear of beards.

One in five office coffee mugs contains fecal bacteria and E.coli, which can cause diarrhea, food poisoning and infections.

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AUTOMOBILES

good condition. 3000 euro. call Dante at 624-5043

2010 Harley-Davidson Fatboy Custom; One owner; Excellent condition; Custom paint; Custom everything! Too many extras to list. Extra set of tins; seats etc. 23K invested, selling for 18K firm. Contact Mike at 3357124697 or Mr. Gee, ENCS Office NAS 1 or call at 3482748397.

1996 BMW 520; European specs; 2.0L V6; manual transmission; 4door; green. Needs some electrical work, priced accordingly. $2,000. Contact Jeff at 335-8279210 or megancu@hotmail.com.

2002 BMW 320 diesel touring luxury 4-door, manual, metallic blue, tan leather interior, navigation system, eight cd changer, eight air-bags, alarm,17" wheels.

Fully loaded, xenon lights, telephone on board, engine runs great, just tuned up with new parts for engine and car, great exterior condition with minor scratches, great for this island.

Asking 5K euro. For more info call Tom at 338-821-7390 1999 BMW 318; 118 CV; 1800 cc engine; metallic grey; manual transmission; all powered, ABS, airbags, A/C, immobilizer; very

1993 Mercedes E320 6 cyl. Excellent Condition, 18-20 mpg in city, 22-24 mpg on highway. Leather interior, A/C, stereo with iPod access, power amp, tires 1yr-old. Serviced Aug. 12, 2012.

Asking $3,500 but negotiable.

Good discount if can drive until Oct. 26, 2012. Contact Frank Smith, Cell: 329-921-5435, after 5pm 0923-75-1034.

NOTICE

Do you like Facebook? How about photography? Are you a writer? The Sigonella Red Cross is currently looking for new members for their Publicity Team to help get the word out about what the Red Cross is doing. Help write our newsletter,

SEPTEMBER

14, 2012

set of boosters and microchips, they will be happy in any family home.

comes when called. She is current on her shots, microchipped, and spayed.

Bruno, 6-8 weeks old male puppy, pure white, already been to the vet for his first check up and should do well with all families.

Mini, 2 yr. old female, medium, dog, Does best with older patient dogs that are larger than her, she doesn't care too much for smaller breeds or cats, and prefers older children but is full of love for the right family. She is current on shots and microchipped.

Creeps, 11 month old, female, black and white, very petite and will fit in cabin for PCSing families, she loves other cats, people and children. She is current on her shots and microchipped.

She also has two 3 month old kittens up for adoption.

Jenna's puppies, 8 weeks old, 3 females, black and brown, all puppies are currently or already have seen the vet for their first

Jax, 11 month old female, black and orange, very petite, she can be shy at first but loves windowsills and people. She always

photograph events, and update our facebook page. If you are interested in using your talents to serve the community, contact the Red Cross at 624-4900 or Sigonella@redcross.org.

SAWS ANIMALS

To volunteer, adopt or foster, visit facebook.com/Sigonella.Animals or http://sigonellaanimalwelfaresociety.webs.com/

SEPTEMBER

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14, 2012

Helping wounded warriors Two days and 160 miles on two wheels

BY HM2 MATTHEW CLUTTER Naval Hospital Sigonella

The pitch is enticing. Food, drinks, fun. Just know that there are also 160 long miles in between all of that. All atop two wheels.

“All the things you do at a bar, we do on a bicycle,” said Lieutenant Junior Grade Chris Gelakoska. “We eat. We drink. We laugh. We sing.”

But amid all the fun, there is a greater purpose to this ride. Gelakoska will join two others from U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella in a group that will be making the trek on the Undefeated 2-day Ride on September 22-23 to raise money for the Wounded Explosive Ordnance Disposal Warrior Foundation (WEODWWF). An official route has yet to be determined, but the ride would be the equivalent of riding from Palermo to Siracusa.

The event has its roots in San Diego and Niceville, Fla., but has been expanded to include a virtual rider group for any participants not in those two areas. Riders in the virtual rider group are required to raise at least $300 as opposed to the $1,000 minimum required for San Diego and Niceville. And according to the Wounded EOD Warrior website, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigo-

nella’s Gelakoska, Lieutenant Christina Bologna and Commander Pamela Krahl have raised nearly $2,000 combined for the event.

For Gelakoska, there is a personal side to all of this. He is especially linked to the EOD/Spec Ops community after his friend, Petty Officer Second Class Adam Smith – a SEAL – died in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan in September of 2010.

“I get that these guys do a job very different than us in the hospital, except for the Corpsmen out on the front lines,” said Gelakoska, a healthcare administrator. “You instantly realize how insignificant your job is – especially mine.”

The upcoming WEODWWF ride is a mere jumping off point for his fundraising, though. His goal is to raise $10,000 for the Blazeman Foundation in time to participate in next year’s Ironman Competition.

This foundation is touted as, according to its website, “a multi-sport movement to end Lou Gehrig’s disease” in honor of the late Jonathan Blais.

But that’s the end goal. To aid get him there, Gelakoska helped

HM2 Matthew Clutter

create Sigonella Endurance Sports this year, a group dedicated to, among other things, cycling, running, swimming and triathlon events in the Sigonella area.

“This is kind of the philanthropic side we haven’t explored yet,” Gelakoska said. “The [Undefeated 2-day Ride] is a way for me and others to get our feet wet, so to speak.”

In addition to the three U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella participants, three other riders from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella will be joining them, including Captain Barry Tanner, U.S. Navy Reserve; Commander Scott Needle, officer in charge, Executive Transport Detachment (ETD); and Lieutenant Commander Marc Overman, ETD. So what does one do to pass the time when riding 160 miles over two days? According to Gelakoska, there is a lot of singing (Pitbull and LMFAO are two of his favorites) and laughing.

“And,” he adds, “we’ll be stopping every 20 miles for coffee and granita.”

It is Italy, after all.

For more information, visit www.eodride.org.

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