Ho'okele - May 6, 2019 (Pearl Harbor-Hickam Magazine)

MAY 6, 2019

Wounded Warrior Games Hickam Airmen to compete in Wounded Warrior Games

INSIDE

15th Wing celebrates the life of a Sky Warrior lost

John Paul Jones and Wayne E. Meyer COC

USS Santa Fe returns from deployment

KCC students visit PMRF as part of workforce grant

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Capt. James Jenks, chief of staff for Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, and his spouse, Catherine, greet spectators during the 56th Annual Merrie Monarch Royal Parade in Hilo, Hawaii. The Navy recognizes that the Merrie Monarch Festival honors the legacy left by King David Kalākaua, who inspired the perpetuation of Hawaiian traditions, native language and arts. King Kalākaua negotiated a treaty with the United States that led to the Navy’s presence at Pearl Harbor. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki/Released)

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, NAVY REGION HAWAII

AGNES TAUYAN

Ho‘okele is a free unofficial publication.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, NAVY REGION HAWAII

All editorial content is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the staff of the Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs Office: 850 Ticonderoga, Suite 110, JBPHH, Hawaii, 96860-4884. Telephone: (808) 473-2888; fax (808) 473-2876; e-mail address: newspaperjbphh@gmail.com World Wide Web address: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Hawaii/.

LYDIA ROBERTSON

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM

CHUCK ANTHONY

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, PACIFIC MISSLE RANGE FACILITY

TOM CLEMENTS EDITOR

ANNA MARIE GENERAL MANAGING EDITOR

MC1 CORWIN COLBERT HO’OKELE STAFF:

JIM NEUMAN ERIN HUGGINS MC2 CHARLES OKI STAFF SGT. JASMONET JACKSON HELEN ZUKERAN DAVID UNDERWOOD

This is an authorized publication primarily for members of the uniformed military services and their families in Hawaii. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, and the military branch of services and do not imply endorsement thereof.

A Hui Hou!

CONTENTS

3-4

Commander, Navy Region Hawaii/ Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific REAR ADM. BRIAN P. FORT

Rear Adm. Brian Fort is a native of Little Rock, Arkansas, and a graduate of the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Following commissioning through Officer Candidate School, he completed nuclear power training at Orlando, Florida, and Ballston Spa, New York. He earned a master’s degree from the Naval War College in National Security and Strategic Studies and is also a graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College.

Fort’s initial sea tour was aboard the Norfolk-based USS Bainbridge (CGN 25) as the Machinery Two Division officer and reactor training assistant.

As a department head he served as operations officer in the Pearl Harborbased USS Ingersoll (DD 990) and USS Lake Erie (CG 70). Returning to the East Coast, he served in USS Nimitz (CVN 68) as main propulsion assistant and then immediately returned back to Hawaii in the wake of 9/11 to serve as executive officer in USS Port Royal (CG 73). Fort commanded the Norfolk-based USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), deploying as part of Standing NATO Maritime Group 2. He then commanded Destroyer Squadron 26, serving as the sea combat commander for the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group.

Ashore, Fort served as the U.S. Naval and Exchange officer to the Royal Navy at the Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, England.

Following his tour onboard Port Royal, he served as executive officer of the Navy Nuclear Power Training Unit, Charleston, South Carolina, as the Navy Federal Executive Fellow at the George Washington University Elliot School of International Affairs and on the Joint Staff, J-7, as the Adaptive Planning Branch chief in the Joint Operational War Plans Division. He also commanded the Navy Nuclear Power Training Unit, Ballston Spa and served on the staff of Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic as the director of the Commander’s Action Group.

USS Santa Fe returns from deployment

5

15th mdg clinic recommends mouth guards

6

Students visit PMRF/ PMRF Hosts Earth Day events

7-8

USS Cheyenne returns home

9-11

Hickam Airmen to compete in Wounded Warrior

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM COMMANDER CAPT. JEFF BERNARD

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Military spouse Appreciation Day

May 10, 2019 The following50th special dealsAnniv. are offered in honor of Militaryshoot-down Spouse Appreciation Day EC-121 - Please present your DoD ID Card to verify your status as a military spouse.

13

Aquatics: Get one hour of “FREE TIME” from 3pm-4pm at Scott Pool and Hickam Family Pool

Swim laps, tan or just relax in the shade. We’ll have the appropriate staff supervising in the shallow end with kids, all who are wearing life jackets/personal floatation devices to supervise so you can enjoy your free time.

Call Scott Pool at 808-473-0394 or Hickam Family Pool at 808-448-2223 for more info.

Arts and Crafts Center: Pick n Paint – Buy one, get one half off (of equal or lessor value). Ph#: 808-448-9907

13

Kauai school senior appointed Naval Academy Auto Skills Centers: FREE Basic Car Care Classto – Hands on Preventive Maintenance The class will introduce you to the concept of basic care, handling of automotive vehicles and will include what to check under the hood, tire pressure and more. Please wear covered shoes and comfortable clothes that may get stained or dirty.

Register by phone by May 8, space is limited.

10am class @ Hickam Auto Skills Center, 808-449-2554 5pm class @ Moanalua Auto Skills Center, 808-471-9072

Hickam Beach: ½ off Beach Equipment Rentals. Ph#: 808-449-5215

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Bowling: Free Bowling and Shoe Rentals from 3pm – 5pm @ NAVSTA Bowling Center. PH#: 808-473-2651

Volunteers help restore fishpond Fitness: All classes are FREE, ALL DAY! Call JB Fitnessancient Center, 808-471-2019 and Hickam Fitness Center, 808-448-2214 for more info.

FREE 10-minute massages from 9am-Noon at Hickam Fitness Center.

Golf: Free Range balls, all day @ Navy Marine, Mamala Bay and Barbers Point Golf Courses

Call for more info: Navy-Marine, 808-471-0142, Mamala Bay Golf Course, 808-449-2300, Barbers Point Golf Course, 808-682-1911 Spouses receive a free round of golf between 10am to 2pm @ Ke’alohi Golf Course. Call 808-448-2318

Historic Hickam Officers’ Club: Bottles and Bites from 4:30pm – 6:30pm. Open to ALL HANDS

15-16

Spouses - $25/ Other DoD ID cardholders - $30

USS Wayne E. and Meyer/ John Paul Jones COC 10 wine samples accompanying small bites Prepaid reservations required. Register by phone beginning April 15, space is limited!

No children allowed, all guests must be 21 and over. Call 808-448-4608 for reservations.

NEX: Navy Exchange Gift Card Giveaway!

6 17

PLUS:

Recreational Equipment Rental: Buy One, Get One Free Snorkel Rental. Ph#: 808-449-6870 Diverse Views Sharkey Theater: Free Movie and Small Popcorn. Movie to be announced, showtime 7pm. Ph#: 808-473-0726

Plus, on Saturday, May 11:

Social media scams

High Tea & Painting with MFSC. 2:30-4:30pm at MFSC Hickam.

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Ph#: 808-474-1999deployment with Australian Navy USS Preble complete

18

Community calendar

Back Cover

greatlifehawaii.com

Joint Military Concert

COMMANDING OFFICER PACIFIC MISSILE RANGE FACILITY CAPT. VINCENT JOHNSON

Daddy’s home!

USS Santa Fe returns from deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Shaun Griffin COMSUBPAC Public Affairs The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Santa Fe (SSN 763) returned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam from deployment April 22.

“I am exceptionally proud of the crew’s efforts to prepare for, sustain, and successfully execute every phase of this deployment,” said Cmdr. Chris Hedrick, Santa Fe’s commanding officer. “As commanding officer, it has been my privilege to lead such a fine group of professional young men in carrying out our nation’s most important tasking, and I could not be prouder of their accomplishments.”

During the deployment, 22 enlisted Sailors and three officers earned their submarine warfare qualification.

“Our purpose is to be ready for battle at any time,” said Hedrick. “During our predeployment and throughout our deployment preparing and being ready for battle at any time was first and foremost in our mind.”

Hedrick said the crews' focus and battle mindedness enabled successful operations and led to a high level of achievement from the crew.

“My most memorable achievement during deployment was earning my dolphins,” said Electronics Technician (Submarine) 3rd Class Dakota Collison, from Chestertown, Maryland. “The most important thing I will take away from this deployment is never to be afraid to ask for help because we are all a team. We have to depend on each other for even the smallest tasks at sea.”

While deployed, Santa Fe executed a port call to Stirling, Western Australia, and hosted submariners from the Royal Australian Navy Submarine Force. They also had the opportunity to conduct community outreach projects by volunteering at the Perth Zoo and the Native Arc Wildlife Refuge center.

“Having the opportunity to help give back to the country that was hosting us during our port call was a rewarding experience,” said Fire Control Technician 2nd Class Nicolas Tankersley.

Upon returning to Pearl Harbor, Master Chief Sonar Technician (Submarine) James McGarrah, Santa Fe’s Chief of the Boat, expressed his appreciation for the hard work and dedication put forth by the crew that made this a successful deployment.

For more news from the Pacific Submarine Force, visit www.csp.navy.mil.

Protect Your Teeth!!

15th MDG Dental Clinic Recommends The Use of Mouth Guards Courtesy story, 15th Wing Public Affairs

The 15th Medical Group Dental Clinic at Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam is seeing a rise in patients with cracked and chipped teeth.

During March, the clinic reminds patients to protect their teeth during sporting activities by using a mouth guard.

A mouth guard is a piece of soft plastic shaped to fit inside the mouth. It protects the lips, cheeks, tongue, teeth and the jaw, absorbing the force of impact from another object before the force reaches the teeth.

The Dental Clinic staff recommends a mouth guard for both contact and non-contact sports such as Mixed Martial Arts, basketball, skateboarding, weight lifting or any other recreational activity that might pose a risk of injury to the mouth. Their regular use can also prevent future root canals that are often caused by blunt force to the tooth.

The dental clinic provides two types of mouth guards for free, boiland-bite and custom. The boil-and-bite mouthguards offer the same protection as the custom fit but are available for pick up at the dental clinic’s front counter and at the Hickam Fitness Center.

For people who are seeking a more tailored fit, the clinic can also provide custom-fitted mouth guards.

Fabrication of a custom mouth guard is one of the quickest and easiest procedures and takes only four-to-seven days to complete.

For a custom-fitted mouth guard, an impression is made of the person’s upper teeth. Once the impression reaches lab technicians, they create a stone cast from the impression. The technician then takes the mouth guard material, which is soft and flexible, and molds it to the cast. After the material has cooled down, the technician cuts it into the shape of a mouth guard, and it’s ready for the customer to pick up.

To make an appointment for a custom fitted-mouth guard please call the appointment line at (888) 683-2778 or you can visit the clinic on the third floor of the Hickam Medical Clinic.

Senior Airman Nicholas Carter, 15th Aerospace Medicine Squadron dental lab technician, cuts a mouth guard away from its mold on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, March 4. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Heather Redman)

Diverse VIEWS “May 12 is Mother’s Day. What’s the most important thing your mother taught you while growing up?”

Submitted by Helen Zukeran and David D. Underwood, Jr.

2nd Lt. Matthew Curti 15th Maintenance Squadron “Being one of four children, my mom quickly taught me how important quality time is. She did not always have the ability or resources to spend mass amounts of time with each of us. Learning this early on taught me to cherish each moment and to be present. Now, even with her 4,000 miles away, even a five minute conversation is deeply meaningful!”

Christine Leonida MWR Sports & Fitness

“Don’t depend on anybody. Work to take care of yourself.”

Damage Controlman First Class Steven Russell Coast Guard Pacific Strike Team “Flowers. When you get in trouble with the wife, bring flowers.”

Master Sgt. Cindy Sims 324th Intelligence Squadron “I was once grounded for cutting my bangs even after I asked permission to do so. When I contested that she had given me permission she said “No, I told you that you are old enough to choose your own consequences, then you interpreted that to mean what suited your own liking.” What she really meant for me to understand was that it is more important to make a good choice than to ask for an alibi.”

KCC students visit PMRF as part of workforce grant After the brief, the students made their way More than 40 technology, trades and to the PMRF business students from Kauai Community College (KCC) visited Pacific Missile Range fire station and learned Facility (PMRF) in Barking Sands, Kauai more about April 18. contract job The visit is part of a Workforce Development opportunities on Grant from the State Legislature’s Grantbase from Ross In-Aid program that the Kauai Chamber of West, program Commerce Military Affairs Council (KMAC) manager for received. The grant is meant to highlight Manu Kai. jobs and programs available on military The students installations in Hawaii. were then “The KMAC, under the Chamber of divided into Commerce, advocates for our military groups based ohana on Kauai. PMRF is the third largest on their degree Students from Kauai Community College sit during a brief on job opportunities at Pacific Missile Range Facility. economic pillar on the island,” said Michelle plans and spent Emura, KMAC chair. “As almost all of time talking with PMRF’S workforce are civilian contractors, employees about building a workforce for the military to carry the jobs on base and specific questions on schooling, training out their missions is critical.” opportunities, and career options on base.

The students began their tour with a brief “I think this was a really good visit,” said Demetrio Castillo, a from PMRF commanding officer Capt. carpentry trades student. “I learned a lot about how things work on Vinnie Johnson, in the Daniel K. Inouye the base and how the program focuses on maintenance.”

Range Operations Center. During the brief At the end of their time at PMRF, the students ate lunch on base at the students learned more about various functions of the base, the mission of training the Shenanigans restaurant and reflected on their day. and testing, as well as basic information “I really thought this visit was a good opportunity,” said Jarren about the personnel on base.

Casem, an electrical maintenance and installation student. “I want to be a journeyman electrician, and it’s good to know there are “I thought the brief from the captain [Johnson] was really impactful,” said Kawai jobs out here and I could be an electrician here. It opens up a whole new world of opportunities on the island.”

Ka`ahuhui, an automotive trades student.

Story and photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sara B. Sexton Pacific Missile Range Facility Public Affairs

She continued saying how much she had learned during the brief and how it was all new information she had never realized before.

PMRF is the largest high-tech employer on Kauai, providing more than 800 government and contract jobs to the local workforce.

PMRF hosts Earth Day 2019 at Waiokapua Bay Story and photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sara B. Sexton Pacific Missile Range Facility Public Affairs

Students from Kawaikini New Century Charter School, Kanuikapono Charter School, Kula Aupuni Niihau O Kekaha (KANAKA), and Ke Kula Niihau O Kekaha attended the April 26 Earth Day event at Waiokapua Bay, Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF).

Bay,” said Capt. Vinnie Johnson, PMRF commanding officer. “We have to protect our environment and our cultural resources so we have something left to remember our sense of purpose, our sense of place and our sense of ‘ohana.’”

PMRF’s Earth Day is focused on the natural resources found on the garden island, including vegetation and wildlife, to help students learn more about things found in their own backyards.

The students began the Earth Day event looking for local plants and wildlife at Kawaiele Waterbird Sanctuary with State Division of Forestry and Wildlife representatives. Sailors from PMRF assisted the students as they looked for native birds, such as the Hawaiian Coot and Hawaiian Stilt, and vegetation, like Naupaka Kahakai.

“I can’t image a better place to have an Earth Day celebration than Waiokapua

The students then traveled to Waiokapua Bay, also known as Major’s Bay,

where they spent time at educational booths learning more about the natural resources on the island. The education booth presenters included The State Department of Aquatic Resources, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources – State Parks, Save our Shearwaters, NOAA – Marine Mammal Response, Kauai Endangered Seabird Project, Na Pua No‘eau Kauai, PMRF USDA Wildlife Services and PMRF Weather Station.

“The schools and kids participating in today’s celebration were amazing,” said Tim Golden, lead meteorologist at PMRF. “It was an absolute honor to be a part of their education and an inspiration to spark the thoughts of change in their young minds.”

The PMRF team used the year’s theme of “The Year of Indigenous Languages” throughout the planning of Earth Day 2019. From wildlife to vegetation, Hawaiian language was incorporated at every step. The planning team used Waiokapua Bay in the title of the event to honor the place name for Major’s Bay.

Tim Golden, Lead Meteorologist at PMRF, right, teaches students about atmosphere changes during the Earth Day 2019 event at Waiokapua (Majors) Bay, April 26.

USS Cheyenne returns from deployment

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Daniel Hinton COMSUBPAC Public Affairs The Los Angeles-class fast attack submarine USS Cheyenne (SSN 773) returned from a deployment to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, April 26.

“I am very proud of the way our Sailors took care of each other during deployment and am extremely humbled by what the team accomplished through innovation, perseverance, and sometimes sheer grit,” said Cmdr.

John Gonser,Cheyenne’s commanding officer. “Now we are blessed with the chance to share some aloha with the family and friends who sacrificed and supported us.

Their support makes our mission possible.”

During the deployment, 17 Sailors advanced to the next pay grade, three officers were promoted, and 32 Sailors earned their submarine warfare qualification.

“The greatest accomplishment during this deployment for me was getting my fish [submarine warfare qualification],” said Information Systems Technician 1st Class Connor X. Kedrowski. “It feels super rewarding to know that all the hard work I put in to get my fish has not gone unseen. All of my shipmates were there to assist me throughout this journey, and I am proud to be a part of this new family.”

Cheyenne’s deployment allowed the crew to test their training and demonstrate their ability to complete highend tactical missions in any environment.

“Our warship is outfitted with state of the art systems and technology, but it is our crew that makes USS Cheyenne stand out from the rest,” said Senior Chief Fire Control Technician, Sean Hingle, Cheyenne’s chief of the boat. “Our Sailors put a great deal of time and effort into preparing and training for this deployment to ensure that we would not only be ready, but capable of taking on any mission and dominating it.”

Cheyenne’s capability was highlighted by its participation in Keen Sword, a joint, bilateral field-training exercise involving U.S. military and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force personnel, designed to increase the combat readiness and interoperability of the Japan-U.S. alliance.

“The biggest lesson I learned on this deployment was keeping your head up,” said Lt. j.g. Benjamin M. West.

“Keeping not only my head up but helping others keep theirs up as well when the schedule changes and challenges arise. Perseverance and continuing to push on is what submariners are made of and our crew has embodied that.”

Cheyenne enjoys a strong relationship with its namesake city highlighted by the Cheyenne, Wyoming mayor traveling to Pearl Harbor to greet the crew as they returned from deployment.

“I could not be more proud than I was today welcoming home USS Cheyenne,” said Marian J. Orr. “It was a profoundly touching and patriotic event to be aboard God’s Boat as we came home to Pearl Harbor. Speaking on behalf of our great city, I thank the submariners — of our namesake city — who risk their lives to protect our nation. We salute you.”

For more news from the Pacific Submarine Force, visit www.csp.navy.mil.

H OatMlastE

Master Sgt. Roger Hopkins, U.S. Special Operations Pacific, is one of three Hickam Airmen headed to the Wounded Warrior Games held this summer in Tampa, Florida. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Heather Redman)

Three Airmen attended the Pacific Air Forces Wounded Warrior CARE Event in January, not knowing it would lead to each of them attending the Wounded Warrior Games this summer—a first for Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Beginning in June, retired Chief Master Sgt. Garrett Kuwada and Master Sgt. Roger Hopkins will compete at the games held in Tampa, Florida, as primaries, and Senior Airman Faith Donato will serve as an alternate.

Kuwada will also be the torch bearer for the games after exemplifying professionalism and sportsmanship during a CARE event in April.

Losing yourself

Hickam Airmen to compete in

Wounded Warrior Games By 2nd Lt. Amber R. Kelly-Herard, 15th Wing Public Affairs

In September 2016, Kuwada had a ruptured brain aneurysm resulting in blood around his brain and damage to his spinal cord and legs. He now suffers loss of coordination and balance, hearing, vision, speech and cognitive function.

“I was in a dark place,” said Kuwada, who retired in 2018 after more than 27 years of service. “I was med boarded from the Air Force before I was ready and there was nothing I could do.”

Donato, 647th Security Forces Squadron, also found herself in a dark place after she was struck by a tour bus while checking ID cards at the Ford Island entry control point.

Donato was rushed to Tripler Army Medical Center where she learned she had a severe case of fibromyalgia, spinal cord injuries, and loss of range of motion on the left side of her body.

“I was in a deep pit, everyone thought I was crazy because there was no way to prove I had nerve pain, so I started drinking alcohol,” said Donato. “I tried to commit suicide for the first time in my life and when I had a mouth full of pills I knew I truly needed help.”

Unlike Kuwada and Donato who were injured suddenly, Hopkins, U.S. Special Operations Pacific, did not know he was injured. After serving 17 years as a pararescueman, Hopkins was assigned a staff position with a slower work tempo than he was accustomed to, and his injuries caught up to him.

Hopkins started piecing together an overall picture of his health and discovered he had problems with his hands, nerve impingements, cervical disk fusion, chronic back pain, multiple fractures, and overuse of his hips, knees, and feet. He also learned he suffered from a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury.

“After a surgery I was heavily sedated and I became dissociative, I started having flashbacks and became pretty combative; they wouldn’t even let my wife see me,” said Hopkins. “They re-sedated me and brought me back, but the writing was on the wall. I had post-traumatic stress disorder.”

Although Kuwada, Donato, and Hopkins had different paths, they all found hope in the Wounded Warrior Program.

Through their medical journeys, each of the Airmen were referred to Cisco Johnson, Air Force Wounded Warrior Program Recovery Care Coordinator, who encouraged them to participate in a CARE event. CARE stands for Caregiver support, Adaptive Sports and Ambassador Workshop, Recovering Airman Mentorship Program and Resiliency Programming, and Empowerment in Transition.

“The CARE event was amazing, I just didn’t know it existed,” said Kuwada. “It’s hard to move forward and recover, but I realized I was not alone, so I have to keep working and not give up hope.”

In addition to recovery, the Airman are beneficiaries of an additional bonus.

“We are legit family, we hangout and talk often,” said Donato. “We were in a deep pit and the Wounded Warrior Program literally saved our lives.”

Retired Chief Master Sgt. Garrett Kuwada, originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, poses with his recumbent bike, which is one of the sports he will be participating in during the 2019 Wounded Warrior Games. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Heather Redman)

Needing help In addition to their Wounded Warrior ohana, each of the warriors are also fortunate to have caregivers by their sides.

As part of the CARE events, caregivers are also given time to reflect on their role as caregivers and offered support.

Senior Chief Petty Officer Betsy Jenkins is a Navy reservist, who is also a yoga teacher, which is something she does with her husband Hopkins to assist with his recovery.

“It’s nice to have a group of people you can relate to, who have similar issues as you’re going through with work, family, and even just talking about the future, which is something I’ve not been able to do before,” said Jenkins.

Michael Donato is a former Marine who changed his life to better support his wife, Faith.

“After I left the Marine Corps, I was in a really bad place mentally,” Michael explained. “I was dealing with a lot of stuff and at the CARE event I learned other people are dealing with similar issues and I learned I have to keep going.”

Joey Kuwada, who is Garrett’s wife of 25 years, hopes more caregivers are made aware of available support programs.

“You can’t take care of your spouse if you don’t take care of yourself,” said Joey.

Taking care of Airmen is more than a phrase –– it’s what the Air Force does for all Airmen, including providing professional support for wounded Airmen and their families.

MWR programs honor military spouses Reid Tokeshi JBPHH MWR Marketing

May 10, 2019 The following special deals are offered in honor of Military Spouse Appreciation Day - Please present your DoD ID Card to verify your status as a military spouse.

Aquatics: Get one hour of “FREE TIME” from 3pm-4pm at Scott Pool and Hickam Family Pool

Swim laps, tan or just relax in the shade. We’ll have the appropriate staff supervising in the shallow end with kids, all who are wearing life jackets/personal floatation devices to supervise so you can enjoy your free time.

Call Scott Pool at 808-473-0394 or Hickam Family Pool at 808-448-2223 for more info.

Arts and Crafts Center: Pick n Paint – Buy one, get one half off (of equal or lessor value). Ph#: 808-448-9907 Auto Skills Centers: FREE Basic Car Care Class – Hands on Preventive Maintenance The class will introduce you to the concept of basic care, handling of automotive vehicles and will include what to check under the hood, tire pressure and more. Please wear covered shoes and comfortable clothes that may get stained or dirty.

Register by phone by May 8, space is limited.

10am class @ Hickam Auto Skills Center, 808-449-2554 5pm class @ Moanalua Auto Skills Center, 808-471-9072 Hickam Beach: ½ off Beach Equipment Rentals. Ph#: 808-449-5215 Bowling: Free Bowling and Shoe Rentals from 3pm – 5pm @ NAVSTA Bowling Center. PH#: 808-473-2651 Fitness: All classes are FREE, ALL DAY! Call JB Fitness Center, 808-471-2019 and Hickam Fitness Center, 808-448-2214 for more info.

FREE 10-minute massages from 9am-Noon at Hickam Fitness Center.

Golf: Free Range balls, all day @ Navy Marine, Mamala Bay and Barbers Point Golf Courses

Call for more info: Navy-Marine, 808-471-0142, Mamala Bay Golf Course, 808-449-2300, Barbers Point Golf Course, 808-682-1911 Spouses receive a free round of golf between 10am to 2pm @ Ke’alohi Golf Course. Call 808-448-2318

Historic Hickam Officers’ Club: Bottles and Bites from 4:30pm – 6:30pm. Open to ALL HANDS Spouses - $25/ Other DoD ID cardholders - $30 10 wine samples and accompanying small bites Prepaid reservations required. Register by phone beginning April 15, space is limited!

No children allowed, all guests must be 21 and over. Call 808-448-4608 for reservations.

NEX: Navy Exchange Gift Card Giveaway!

Recreational Equipment Rental: Buy One, Get One Free Snorkel Rental. Ph#: 808-449-6870 Sharkey Theater: Free Movie and Small Popcorn. Movie to be announced, showtime 7pm. Ph#: 808-473-0726

Plus, on Saturday, May 11:

Ph#: 808-474-1999

greatlifehawaii.com

High Tea & Painting with MFSC. 2:30-4:30pm at MFSC Hickam.

What does one think of to describe the life of a military spouse? Being separated from your spouse for months at a time. Raising your children alone for lengthy periods. Taking care of the house, financials and family needs, keeping the home fires burning so our service members can focus on protecting our country.

Not to mention being ready to pull up roots and move to other parts of the country or world, maybe several times. It is indeed true when it’s said that spouses also serve. Yet thousands live this life willingly and some even embrace it, looking for ways to broaden their horizons and expand their knowledge and experience.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day was first recognized by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 as a time to recognize the military spouses and what they do for the military community. Held the Friday before Mother’s Day, this year it falls on May 10 and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) is celebrating their contributions with a plethora of special offers and activities on that day just for the spouses.

The diversity of specials are aimed to appeal to spouses’ varied interests. Food lovers will want to sign up for Bottles and Bites, a wine and food pairing experience at the Historic Hickam Officers’ Club. For only $30 – spouses get a discounted price of $25 – attendees sample wines paired with complementary small

bites in a cocktail party setting.

Others will want to sign up for the free Basic Car Class at the Auto Skills Centers. The class introduces concepts of basic car care, including what to check to keep a vehicle running. There is a 10 a.m. class at the Hickam site and a 5 p.m. class at the Moanalua location.

Spouses that just want some alone time can take advantage of the Aquatics Free Time from 3 to 4 p.m. at Scott Pool and Hickam Family Pool. Each location will have staff to watch the kids so the spouse can swim, catch a tan or just relax.

This is just a sample of some of the offers MWR has planned. Other specials are happening at the fitness centers, golf courses, bowling, Sharkey Theater and more. For a full list of activities go to www.greatlifehawaii.com and look for the Military Spouse Appreciation Day specials.

FEDERAL EMPLOYEE VIEWPOINT SURVEY

SPEAK UP,

CNIC! Let Your VOICE Be HEARD! inspiringchange

empoweringemployees

EMPLOYEE VIEWPOINT SURVEY FEVS FEDERAL

SAAPM proclamation

U.S. Navy Capt. Jeff Bernard, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) commanding officer, poses for a photo with the JBPHH Sexual Assault Response Coordinators and Victim Advocate Support Specialists at the Military and Family Support Center, April 5. Sexual Assault Response Coordinators and Victim Advocates are available at major Department of Defense installations to assist victims and survivors of sexual assault.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jasmonet D. Jackson)

Island school senior appointed U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2023

By Pacific Missile Range Facility Public Affairs

The Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) served as the setting for the presentation of a Certificate of Appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2023 to Island School senior Henry Scherer.

Brad Rockwell, Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) Power Supply Manager and Navy Reserve Captain, is the Blue and Gold Officer for Kauai, representing the academy and assisting in recruiting efforts.

“It is my distinct pleasure to have the opportunity today to recognize the significant honor Henry Scherer has earned by receiving an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland,” said Rockwell.

Both Rockwell and Capt. Vinnie Johnson, commanding officer of PMRF, are 1993 graduates of the Naval Academy. “Henry’s appointment to the Class of 2023 is

interesting in that he will graduate 30 years after Capt. Johnson and me,” Rockwell said. “Yes, around 30 years ago, we were both feeling the same excitement and fear that Henry surely feels today as he is about to embark upon a very difficult yet rewarding endeavor.”

“Henry has worked hard to excel and achieve this great opportunity,” Johnson said. “This is an amazing privilege for me to represent the Navy, the Naval Academy and the PMRF `ohana in recognizing one of Kauai’ own. PMRF is always looking to recruit smart and talented youth on our island. They are our future.”

This year, Scherer was one of about 16,000 students from throughout the nation who applied for one of approximately 1,200 seats for the Naval Academy’s Class of 2023. The admissions process requires each student to apply for and receive a nomination,

50th anniversary:

most commonly from their congressman or senator, complete a thorough medical exam, and successfully pass a physical fitness evaluation in addition to the usual submission of transcripts, recommendations, and essays.

For Scherer, this fulfills a long awaited goal. “Ever since I was very young I have wanted to attend the United States Naval Academy,” said Scherer. “My mom first put the idea in my head when I was around 8 years old and ever since then it has been my goal to get in.

Being offered an appointment is a tremendous honor that I am humbled and grateful to accept.”

An appointment to the United States Naval Academy is equivalent to a full four-year scholarship including all tuition, room and board, medical and dental benefits, and a monthly

Capt. Vinnie Johnson, commanding officer of Pacific Missile Range Facility, Henry Scherer, Island High School Senior, and Brad Rockwell, Blue and Gold Officer for Kauai, pose for a photo after a presentation of a Certificate of Appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 2023. Scherer was one of about 16,000 students from throughout the nation who applied for one of approximately 1,200 seats for the Naval Academy’s Class of 2023. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sara B. Sexton)

midshipman stipend. After completing the four-year curriculum at the Naval Academy, students receive a Bachelor of Science degree in one of 25 majors and earn a commission as an officer in the United States Navy or Marine Corps.

Rockwell completed the presentation ceremony by saying, “Island School and all of Kauai should be very proud of Henry’s achievements, and on behalf of the Superintendent of the United States Naval Academy, it is my pleasure to present this Certificate of Appointment to the Naval Academy’s Class of 2023. Go Navy!”

EC-121 shoot-down

By Cryptologic Technician (Interpretative) 2nd Class Martina Wilson NIOC Public Affairs

On April 15, Sailors of the Navy Information Operations Command (NIOC) Hawaii held a remembrance ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the shoot-down of U.S. Navy EC-121 reconnaissance aircraft “Deep Sea 129” by North Korean fighter planes over the Sea of Japan.

In addition to a wreath-laying ceremony accompanied by the firing of three volleys in honor of the fallen, courtesy of an element from the Marine Corps’ Third Radio Battalion, NIOC Hawaii Sailors had the opportunity to receive in-person remarks from Cmdr.

Joe Overstreet, the son of Lt. Cmdr. James Overstreet, who was the officer in charge of Deep Sea 129.

Keating, who served as the master of ceremonies during the event. “They didn’t even know that we do this every year, and I think that was very meaningful to them… that there’s this community remembrance.”

Many of the Sailors present at the ceremony felt a strong personal connection with the tragic loss of Deep Sea 129. Although an armistice was called between Russia-allied North Korea and U.S.-allied South Korea in July 1953, tensions remain, and it is easy for those working in the Indo-Pacific area to put themselves in the shoes of the crew.

“The U.S. amassed a substantial striking force,” said Overstreet, describing the aftermath of the shootdown. “But they did not exact any retaliation, which was bitter for those of us on the front line. We had just lost 31 shipmates.”

The 30 Sailors and one Marine who perished in the attack were recognized during the ceremony by a roll call of the fallen. From a tight formation of Sailors in dress white uniforms came the calls. Names were recited one by one as if the crew of Deep Sea 129 themselves had fallen into formation with the NIOC Hawaii Sailors. Each name was accompanied by two peels of the ship’s bell.

The roll call and tolling of the bell were traditional of the annual remembrance ceremony, but this year’s anniversary held a special significance as surviving family members of many of the fallen crew were in attendance.

“This [ceremony] had a much bigger personal and emotional impact because the families were there,” said Chief Cryptologic Technician Interpretive Kim

Cryptologic Technician (Interpretative) 2nd Class Jeong Kim (left) and Cryptologic Technician (Interpretative) 2nd Class Gianni Cedarblade (right) lay a wreath at Pearl Harbor in memory of the crew of the U.S. Navy EC-121M, call sign Deep Sea 129, shot down on April 15, 1969. (U.S. Navy photo

by Cryptologic Technician (Networks) 2nd Class Catherine Yahn)

“We weren’t actively at war with North Korea,” said Cryptologic Technician Interpretive 1st Class Tony Betts. “Yes, tensions were high, but those Sailors, that Marine, they’d probably flown that mission hundreds of times without incident. It kind of drags you back into it. It reminds you that this isn’t just a job, it’s the military… you put yourself in the line of fire every day. It could have been your best friend, it could even have been you. And there’s something comforting, something cathartic about knowing that someday, if it is you, that you won’t be forgotten. You’ll be remembered and honored.”

Volunteers resto�e ancient fishpond

Radford High School Navy JROTC cadets, community volunteers, members of the Ali’i Pauahi Hawaiian Civic Club and the Aiea Community Association joined hands to gather in a traditional prayer “olI” during an Earth Month cleanup and maintenance of the ancient fishpond, Loko Pa’aiau, at McGrew Point Navy housing, April 27. The fishpond restoration is an ongoing cultural resources project involving a continuing partnership by the U.S. Navy and the local community. (U.S. Navy photo by Anna Marie General)

Community volunteers work together to remove invasive plant species along the coastline of the ancient fishpond, Loko Pa’aiau as part of an Earth Month event, April 27. The fishpond restoration is an ongoing cultural resources project involving a continuing partnership between the U.S. Navy and the local community. (U.S. Navy photo by Anna Marie General)

Radford High School Navy JROTC cadets work together to remove invasive plant species of the stone path along the coastline of the ancient fishpond, Loko Pa’aiau as part of an Earth Month event, April 27. The fishpond restoration is an ongoing cultural resources project involving a continuing partnership between the U.S. Navy and the local community. (U.S. Navy photo by Anna Marie General)

PROPERLY RELIEVED USS JOHN PAUL JONES CHANGE OF COMMAND

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Cmdr. Jesse Mink, right, outgoing commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) turns over command of John Paul Jones to Cmdr. John Loomis, left, during a change of command ceremony on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam April 26.

During the ceremony, Loomis relieved Mink and took command as 19th commanding officer of John Paul Jones. (U.S. Navy photo

by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki)

Cmdr. John Loomis, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) receives his command-at-sea pin from his family during a change of command ceremony on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, April 26. (U.S. Navy photo

by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki)

Cmdr. John Loomis, commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) is piped ashore during a change of command ceremony on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, April 26. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki)

Capt. Joe Ring, left, commander, Destroyer Squadron 31, awards Cmdr. Jesse Mink, right, outgoing commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) the Legion of Merit during a change of command ceremony on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam April 26. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki)

i

STAND

RELIEVED USS WAYNE E. MEYER CHANGE OF COMMAND

Capt. Joe Ring, center, Commander, Destroyer Squadron 31, leads an applause as Cmdr. Jamie Hopkins, left, former commanding officer of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), congratulates Cmdr. Alexander Mamikonian, right, upon turning over command during the Wayne E. Meyer change of command ceremony on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, April 25.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jasmonet Jackson/Released)

Social media financial scam targets service members

By Naval Criminal and Investigative Service

The Department of the Navy (DON) personnel are facing severe financial losses after responding to social media posts or messages stating “Get out of Debt” or “Make Extra Money.”

These scams frequently offer money to service members under the guise of a “Grant” or “Extra Employment.”

The Naval Criminal and Investigative Service (NCIS)and other Department of Defense (DoD) law enforcement agencies have received multiple reports recently of service members being defrauded out of large sums of money as a result of the aforementioned scam. Credit Unions catering to service members and their dependents have been the main target of this scam.

Service members are subsequently asked for their bank account login information as well as other personally identifiable information (PII). Later, these service members discover that loans have been opened in their name and other unauthorized financial transactions have occurred that result in great financial loss to the service member.

NCIS reporting shows that the scam is conducted by several different methods: Some victims responded to a social media post offering to “Get Rich Quick” or “Pay Down Debt,” possibly including references to U.S. Navy or active duty status using

hashtags. After the victim establishes contact with the person posting the “opportunity,” the victim is asked to provide their bank or credit union login information.

Another variation of this scheme involves service members receiving a friend request from a person who shares many friends in common (frequently other Sailors, such as friends from boot camp or previous commands). After accepting the friend request, the victim receives a message from the scammer offering grant money to service members as a “Thank You” for their service or offering to pay money for “debt relief.”

If anyone has fallen victim to the aforementioned scam or any social media posts of similar nature, please follow the provided guidance: Immediately discontinue correspondence with the suspected scammer.

Notify your bank or financial institution and attempt to have your accounts locked.

Change all account passwords and seek additional security steps by your financial institution.

Notify your respective command, NCIS office, and/or respective law enforcement authorities.

Consider a credit lock through one or all three of the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, Transunion).

Preble completes cooperative deployment with HMAS Melbourne The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88) and the Royal Australian Navy Adelaideclass guided-missile frigate HMAS Melbourne (FFG 05) transit in formation during a cooperative deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel)

by Ensign Madison J. Karlin USS Preble (DDG 88) Public Affairs

The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88) completed a cooperative deployment with the Royal Australian Navy Adelaideclass guided-missile frigate HMAS Melbourne (FFG 05) in the Philippine Sea April 19.

The two ships rendezvoused for a full day of training between the well-established allies.

The American and Australian crews completed 10 successful cooperative evolutions, including a rescue and assistance drill; helicopter deck landing qualifications; divisional tactics; and a visit, board, search, and seizure team exercise.

“As a prior frigate Sailor, it was great to see a frigate still

operating at such a high level.

Our Australian counterparts are excellent technicians, and I really enjoyed sharing past frigate experiences with them,” Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Juan Alaniz said.

Throughout the event, members of both crews spent time working closely with their counterparts on each other’s ship in order to accomplish in-rate training.

Sailors received lessons in the counterparts’ equipment and operating procedures onboard in order to increase understanding and proficiency when coordinating bilateral operations.

“It was such a pleasure to work with the crew of the HMAS Melbourne,” said Cmdr.

Leonardo Giovannelli, USS Preble commanding officer. “We

appreciate the opportunity to operate and train with such highcaliber mariners and military professionals. Because of the close relationship that our two countries share, we were able to execute an incredible amount of valuable training in a short amount of time.”

The U.S. Navy regularly flies, sails, and operates with allies and partners, both bilaterally and multilaterally to improve interoperability and strengthen our capabilities.

Preble, homeported at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, is conducting naval operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

kaiaulu (community)

Pailolo Swim Challenge

Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet

Month of May - Swim the length of the Pailolo Channel, about 9 miles, by the end of May at any of the Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam (JBPHH) swimming pools. This is a free event. Sign up at Scott Pool. Call 473-0394.

May 12 - Celebrate mom with a delicious brunch at the Historic Hickam Officers’ Club. Reservations are being accepted now, pre-paid reservations are required. Cost is $43 for adults, $21 for children ages 7 to 12, $12 for ages 4 to 6 and $5 for ages 2 to 3.

Call 448-4608.

Mother’s Day Massage Special Month of May - Celebrate mom, or maybe yourself, with this onehour massage at the Hickam Memorial Fitness Center. Cost is $55. Open to ages 18 and older. Call 448-2214.

Liberty Bowling Night May 6 - Every first Monday of the month, get free bowling plus free pizza and a fountain drink. Open to single active-duty Sailors and Airmen only. Sign up in advance at Beeman Center. Call 4732574.

Sponsor Training May 7 - This course, which will be held at the Wahiawa Conference Center from 1 to 3 p.m., gives a new sponsor the information, resources, and tools necessary for assisting incoming personnel and their families with their transition to a new environment.

Spouses are encouraged to attend. Call 474-1999.

$2 Tuesdays May 7 - Every Tuesday at Mamala Bay Golf Course, enjoy $2 for two buckets of balls to hit at the driving range, $2 hot dogs and $2 select beverages from 4 to 6 p.m. Golf clubs are available to borrow and golf club professionals will be there to offer free tips to improve your swing. Call 449-2304.

EFMP Coffee Talk May 9 - Learn, share and connect with other Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) families at the Pearl Harbor MFSC from 9 to 10 a.m. Call 474-1999.

Fitness and Wellness Fair May 10 - Learn tips from fitness vendors and organizations, get your questions answered from certified personal trainers, participate in fitness demonstrations and more at the JBPHH Fitness Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Teams of six can also participate in the fire truck pull contest from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call 471-2020/2019.

Saving and Investing Basics May 10 - Learn the basic skills and techniques of managing and budgeting your money at this workshop at the Pearl Harbor MFSC from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Call 474-1999.

Beach Cleanup May 11 - The MWR Liberty Program is looking for active-duty Sailors and Airmen to volunteer to clean up White Plains Beach.

Call 473-2583.

Mother’s Day Bowling and Movie May 12 - Moms bowl free with a paying family member at Hickam Bowling Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at the Naval Station Bowling Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Take mom to the movies at Sharkey Theater at 1:30 p.m. and she gets in free with a paying family member.

Movie Showtimes *Movie schedules are subject to change

Sharkey Theater

National Police Week Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam will host the following events: • May 13 - A 3.8-mile base Ruck March will begin at 8 a.m. at the Atterbury Circle Flagpole • May 14 - A police week fair and K-9 demonstration will be held at 8 a.m. at the softball field near Kuntz Gate.

• May 16 - An obstacle course and flag football will begin at 7 a.m. at the Freedom Tower • May 17 - A closing ceremony and law enforcement convoy will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the Atterbury Circle Flagpole Contact Tech. Sgt. Jaime Gutierrez at 449-9730 or Staff Sgt. Nicole Fralick at 449-2323.

Blood Drive May 13, 28 - Tripler Army Medical Center Blood Donor Center has scheduled upcoming blood drives, as part of the Armed Services Blood Program at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange on May 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and May 20 at Schofield Exchange from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 433-6699.

Paint and Sip May 15 - Paint and sip while learning step-by-step instruction of painting your personal masterpiece at Tradewinds from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Cost is $40 and includes all art supplies. Advance sign-up is recommended. Call 448-9907.

Armed Forces Kids Day Run

Thursday, May 9: 7 p.m. Shazam! (PG-13)

Friday, May 10: 7 p.m. Shazam! (PG-13)

Saturday, May 11: 2:30 p.m. Dumbo (PG) 5:10 p.m Little (PG-13) 7:30 p.m. Pet Sematary (R)

Sunday, May 12: 1:30 p.m. Shazam! (3D) (PG-13) 4:20 p.m. The Best of Enemies (PG-13) 7 p.m. Hellboy (R)

Thursday, May 16: 7 p.m. Little (PG-13)

Friday, May 17: 7 p.m. Breakthrough (PG)

May 18 - Participate in the Armed Forces Kids Day Run from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Earhart Track on the Hickam side of JBPHH. The deadline to sign up is Wednesday, May 15. This event is open to ages 5 to 13 and check-in is between 5 to 5:30 p.m. Participants can register online at www.americaskidsrun.com. Call 473-0789 or visit www.greatlifehawaii.com.

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month Hickam Memorial Theater Thursday, May 9: 6:30 p.m. Pet Sematary (R)

Friday, May 10: 7 p.m. The Mustang (R)

Saturday, May 11: 3 p.m. Dumbo (PG) 6 p.m. Shazam! (PG-13) Stay tuned for the next edition of Ho'okele as we recognize Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the Armed Forces.

Sunday, May 12: 2 p.m. Little (PG-13) 4:30 p.m. Shazam! (PG-13)

Thursday, May 16: 6:30 p.m. Little (PG-13)