Ho'okele - September 23, 2019 (Pearl Harbor-Hickam Magazine)

SEPTEMBER 23, 2019

CHIEF PETTY OFFICERS

ARRIVING Suicide Prevention Awareness

INSIDE:

DESRON 31 change of command

USS Olympia completes deployment

Hero and Remembrance Run

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Sailors assigned to ATG MIDPAC, carry a wreath towards the USS Utah Memorial during the 9/11 commemoration ceremony on Ford Island Sept. 11. The Sailors paid tribute with a wreath-laying to honor the lives lost during the Sept. 11 terrorist attack. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jasmonet Jackson)

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, NAVY REGION HAWAII

AGNES TAUYAN

Ho‘okele is a free 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

MCCS JACKEY SMITH HO’OKELE STAFF:

JIM NEUMAN ERIN HUGGINS MC2 CHARLES OKI STAFF SGT. JASMONET JACKSON HELEN ZUKERAN DAVID UNDERWOOD GSE3 LEXIE PEREZ

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

Your Navy Team in Hawaii Commander, Navy Region Hawaii oversees two installations: Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam on Oahu and Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands, on Kauai.

As Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific we provide oversight for the ten surface ships homeported at JBPHH. Navy aircraft squadrons are also co-located at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Kaneohe, Oahu, and training is sometimes also conducted on other islands, but most Navy assets are located at JBPHH and PMRF. These two installations serve fleet, fighter and family under the direction of Commander, Navy Installations Command.

A guided-missile cruiser and destroyers of Commander, Naval Surface Force Pacific deploy independently or as part of a group for Commander, U.S. Third Fleet and in the Seventh Fleet and Fifth Fleet areas of responsibility. The Navy, including your Navy team in Hawaii, builds partnerships and strengthens interoperability in the Pacific.

Each year, Navy ships, submarines and aircraft from Hawaii participate in various training exercises with allies and friends in the Pacific and Indian Oceans to strengthen interoperability. Navy service members and civilians conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions in the South Pacific and in Asia. Working with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Navy in Hawaii provides drug interdiction and fisheries enforcement operations for Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. In even-numbered years Hawaii hosts the biennial summer Rim of the Pacific Exercise, the world’s largest military maritime exercise, featuring more than two dozen nations and 25,000 personnel.

The Navy family in Hawaii comprises around 50,000 people, most of whom are active duty service members and their families, and includes nearly 15,000 civilians and contractors as part of our workforce.

JBPHH includes the Pearl Harbor waterfront, Hickam flight line, Wahiawa annex and several other areas in West Oahu and provides a major logistics and other support hub for the military and military families.

Supporting the nation’s ballistic missile defense initiative, the Pacific Missile Range Facility on the western coast of “The Garden Island,” is the world’s largest instrumented multidimensional testing and training missile range.

We provide services to the U.S. Pacific Command, one of DOD’s six geographic combatant commands, with an area of responsibility covering half the globe.

We directly support two component commands whose headquarters are on JBPHH: Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet and Commander, U.S. Pacific Air Force. Close to our own Region/MIDPAC headquarters command is Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet. With 18 forward-deployable combat-ready U.S. Navy submarines, Pearl Harbor is home to the largest submarine presence in the Pacific. The Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, on JBPHH, is the largest ship repair facility between the West Coast and the Far East.

Within our region we support more than 100 tenant commands.

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POW/MIA REMEMBRANCE WEEK

4

COMDESRON 31 CHANGE OF COMMAND

COMMANDER, NAVY REGION HAWAII AND NAVAL SURFACE GROUP MIDDLE PACIFIC REAR ADM. ROBERT CHADWICK

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TUSCON CHANGES HANDS FOLLOWING DEPLOYMENT

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10-11

CPO PINNING CEREMONY

USS OLYMPIA COMPLETES DEPLOYMENT

COMMANDER, JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM 12

14-15

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SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS

CAPT. JEFF BERNARD

A RACE FOR REMEMBRANCE

NAVY ELECTRICAL COSTS INCREASE

PLUS: 5

JBPHH IMT READY FOR EMERGENCIES

5

DIVERSE VIEWS

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NROTC AT UH MANOA

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PACAF HOST SRI LANKAN AIR FORCE

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Community Calendar

COMMANDING OFFICER PACIFIC MISSILE RANGE FACILITY CAPT. TIMOTHY YOUNG Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 /

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REMEMBRANCE WEEK Compiled by Ho’okele Staff

Air Force and Navy personnel gathered at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam to commemorate POW/MIA Remembrance Week from Sept. 16-20.

POW/MIA Remembrance Week is observed every September honoring those who were held as prisoners or were lost and unaccounted for in wartime. The base honored lost and missing service members all week, with special events scheduled each day.

Some of the events included a reading of POW/MIA names, a reveille ceremony at Atterbury Circle, a 24-hour memorial run held at the Hickam track and a POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

For more information about efforts to account for more than 81,000 Americans still missing from past conflicts, visit www.dpaa.mil.

Air Force and Navy personnel meet at Atterbury Circle for a reveille ceremony starting POW/MIA Remembrance Week at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 16. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Erin Baxter)

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The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) wreath is layed on the grass before being presented at a ceremony for National POW/MIA Recognition Day at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific Sept. 20. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jacqueline A. Clifford)

In honor of National POW/MIA Recognition Day, the POW/MIA flag is flown over the USS Arizona Memorial for the first time at Pearl Harbor Sept. 20. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Apryl Hall)

From left to right, U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Jon Krietz, deputy director of operations, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), Bob Wallace, former commander in chief of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Fern Sumpter Winbush, principal deputy director, DPAA, render honors as the colors are presented during a National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific Sept. 20. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jacqueline A. Clifford)

Service members assigned to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) participated in a POW/MIA 24-hour memorial run at the Hickam track on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 19. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Rusty Frank)

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 /

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COMDESRON 31 CHANGE OF COMMAND

By Commander Destroyer Squadron 31 Photos by MC2 Charles Oki

C

apt. William H. Baxter relieved Capt. Joe J. Ring as commander, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) Three One on Thursday, Sept. 19, at a ceremony conducted aboard USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53).

As commodore, Ring served as the immediate superior in command for seven Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyers: USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53), USS Hopper (DDG 70), USS Momsen (DDG 92), USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110),

USS John Finn (DDG 113), and PCU Daniel Inouye (DDG 118).

During his tenure, Ring led Exercise Pacific Dragon 2018, the largest multinational ballistic missile defense event in Pacific Fleet history and supported high profile bilateral events with both the Royal Australian Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force.

Ring also served as a mentor to the Royal New Zealand Navy during Exercise Rimpac 2018, when they served as "Zulu" for the USS Boxer Expeditionary Strike Group. Additionally, DESRON Three One ships successfully completed

Capt. William Baxter, incoming commander of Destroyer Squadron 31 (DESRON 31), salutes Rear Adm. Robert Chadwick II, commander, Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, upon assuming command of DESRON 31 during the change of command ceremony.

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4th Fleet and multiple 7th Fleet deployments.

Ring signed off with “It has been my pleasure to serve you as Commodore of Destroyer Squadron Three One. We live in challenging times, what we ask of you is often hard and demanding, but if you fight hard, fight to win, never give up and never give in victory will be ours.”

Baxter is from Allen, Texas and is a 1994 graduate of Texas A & M University. He completed sea tours aboard USS Underwood (FFG 36), USS Spruance (DD 963), USS Taylor (FFG 50) and USS Yorktown (CG

48). He served as executive officer in USS O’Kane (DDG 77) and USS Port Royal (CG 73). He commanded USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108) in 20122013.

“It is a great honor to take command of Destroyer Squadron Three One, and to continue the great work of Commodore Ring” said Baxter. “We will continue to act at the DESRON that you always wanted, ensuring that our ships are ready to conduct the mission the nation demands by focusing on service and procedural compliance."

Rear Adm. Robert Chadwick II, commander, Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, congratulates Capt. Joseph Ring, outgoing commander of Destroyer Squadron 31 (DESRON 31), after presenting him with the Legion of Merit medal during the change of command ceremony.

Diverse VIEWS What do you love most about being stationed in Hawaii and why?

JBPHH IMT r eady for emer gencies

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

Master Sgt. Amber Fuselier 647th Logistics Readiness Squadron “Endless sunshine, opportunities, and the Ohana atmosphere. I have lived in areas where it was cold and I was always busy. Here I can have both dreams come true.”

Senior Airman Luis Gomez 690th Cyberspace Operations Squadron “I love how there’s so many different things to do despite Hawaii just being an island. I love the outdoors and Hawaii has so much to offer.”

Electrician Technician Seaman Sebastian Lopera USS Hawaii (SSN 776)

“The weather.”

Electronics Technician 2nd Class Cassandra Bienko Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard “I actually don’t enjoy it here due to the traffic, lack of parking and seasons.”

Story and photo by Michael Liem JBPHH Emergency Management

Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam hosted an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Incident Management Team (IMT) training course, provided by the Shore Operations Training Group mobile training team.

This three-day course took place at the JBPHH EOC from Aug. 27-29, forming a JBPHH IMT. The EOC IMT course provides the JBPHH IMT with classroom and practical training on their roles and responsibilities in supporting on-scene incident commanders. The IMT is responsible for providing resource coordination, information management, and other support functions that directly support the incident commanders.

Participants of the JBPHH IMT included first response and emergency management professionals such as the fire department, security, public works, mass care operations and public affairs personnel.

Responding to an incident that may involve a wide range of hazards require a robust response plan. The JBPHH IMT trained and practiced on developing SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely) incident objectives. SMART objectives help the team to prioritize and execute the tasks that are required to meet the commander’s intent for responding to any incident.

Teamwork is another aspect of EOC operations that is emphasized during the training. The JBPHH IMT members are assigned to a command staff and four different sections: operations, logistics, planning, and administrative/finance.

The key to an effective IMT is the ability of the individual sections to organize and work together as a team. During the course of the training, the JBPHH IMT learned how to synchronize their collective efforts as one finely tuned and well-oiled incident response machine.

The final day of the training consisted of a C3 (command, control, and communication) functional training exercise in which the IMT was given an incident scenario that they must control and manage as a team. During the threehour exercise, the instructors pushed the team’s capabilities to the limits by introducing a cascading series of events.

In the end, the IMT successfully completed the exercise, earning the praise of the instructors. The lead instructor, George Zuniga, was impressed with the students’ ability to work together in an environment that emergency management experts describe as “organized chaos.”

With this important training under their belt, the JBPHH IMT is ready should the proverbial balloon go up and are called upon to respond.

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 /

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Tucson changes hands after successful deployment

Top Right: The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770), returns to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam following an extended seven-month, western Pacific deployment.

Above: Cmdr. Chad Hardt, from Aiken, South Carolina, salutes the ensign during a change of command ceremony for the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770).

Story and photos by MC2 Michael Zingaro COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

T

he Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Tucson (SSN 770) held a change of command ceremony, pier side at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 20.

Cmdr. Douglas Pratt, from Nashua, New Hampshire, relieved Cmdr.

Chad Hardt, from Aiken, South Carolina, and assumed the duties and responsibilities of the commanding officer following the successful completion of a western Pacific deployment.

“The crew of Tucson performed admirably through a wide-range of submarine operations during this extended seven-month deployment,” said Hardt. “These Sailors formed a cohesive team that rose to the challenge on every occasion, enabling

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the ship to execute exceptionally well.

I am extremely proud to be associated with this group of submariners — they were fantastic representatives of the city of Tucson, the Navy, and the United States.”

Rear Adm. Jimmy Pitts, commander, Submarine Group 7, was the guest speaker of the ceremony, which was attended by distinguished visitors, family, friends, and crew.

“The importance of our submarine force for the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific cannot be overstated, starting with World War II, continuing in the Cold War, and throughout the subsequent decades of peace and prosperity across this vital region of the world,” said Pitts. “This was most recently evident by Tucson’s significant contributions to 7th Fleet high priority warfighting objectives during a western Pacific deployment.”

Since Tucson’s departure in February, they completed six port visits in the 7th Fleet area of operations, which enhanced and strengthened relationships with allies and partners.

Also, 17 crew members advanced to the next pay grade, 13 reenlisted, and 22 crew members earned their submarine warfare qualifications.

“Our crew ethos is, ‘we are professionals, we are family, and we are warriors.’ Combat readiness and battle-mindedness were themes that were pervasive both during the training and workup to deployment, as well as throughout execution. We consistently viewed our operations through the lens of readiness for future combat and ensured that our Sailors did as well,” said Hardt.

Hardt’s next assignment will be on the staff of Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Pratt previously served on the staff of Commander, Submarine Squadron 21, based out of Naval Support Activity, Bahrain.

“The crew you see assembled here are some of the finest Sailors I’ve ever seen,” said Pratt. “It amazes me how much talent is onboard. Every day you remind me why the U.S. Navy’s submarine force is so great. I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to be your captain.”

Tucson’s return to Pearl Harbor marks the completion of five deployments since the last major overhaul period, and 11 total deployments completed since its commissioning on Sept. 9, 1995.

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

GOLD FOULED ANCHORS Chief Religious Programs Specialist Gregory Bailey receives his chief petty officer combination cover during a pinning ceremony at the Hickam Chapel on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 13. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Cole C. Pielop)

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 /

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Chief Culinary Specialist Edith Murillo is pinned during a pinning ceremony at Hickam Chapel on Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam Sept.

13. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Jessica O. Blackwell)

“You are now the Chief!”

By Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations

A

round the Navy and around the world, men and women—Sailors—made an incredible transition and advanced to chief petty officer Sept. 16.

Over the past six weeks, many Sailors have been challenged, and those challenges were hard but nothing compared to what they will face in the years to come. And that’s OK, because challenge is good. Challenges strengthen us. As I reflect on the critical impact chiefs have had on my life and career, I am convinced of the importance of the Chiefs Mess as an institution.

My first chief told me that our most important weapons system is our Navy team and their families. People are and will continue to be our key competitive advantage over any adversary. The fact that I am highlighting this enduring principle, 34 years after I first heard it from my chief, reflects how pivotal chief petty officers have been in my own life and career.

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“As I reflect on the critical impact chiefs have had on my life and career, I am convinced of the importance of the Chiefs Mess as an institution.”

Chief Mass Communication Specialist Amanda Gray stands at attention during a pinning ceremony at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 13. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Michael B. Zingaro)

Every time I get the opportunity to reconnect with a group of chiefs, I leave feeling uplifted and inspired. Those brief times reinforce how important the institution of the Chiefs Mess is to our Navy and our nation.

Chief Intelligence Specialist Kelson Warford is pinned by his family during a pinning ceremony on Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 13.

(U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Michael B. Zingaro)

I use that word institution carefully. When we use it, we often do so to indicate something that has merely been around for a long time.

That usage of the word indicates staleness and complacency, the exact opposite of what the Chiefs Mess represents. The original meaning is far better. The word “institution” is the “action of establishing or founding” and under this definition, the institution of the Chiefs Mess is not who you are, or the insignia you wear, or the fact that we’ve marked this occasion for many years, but what you do, the actions you take, day in and day out, large and small—that chiefs routinely undertake to enable our Sailors to perform at their very best.

Even the briefest review of history demonstrates that chief petty officers are Sailors of action. Some of their names, like John Finn, or Oscar Peterson or Peter Tomich—all chiefs who were awarded the Medal of Honor—are legends in their own right. These examples of valor and of sacrifice are worthy of telling and retelling, but there is something even greater than these individual examples. Our Navy’s achievements throughout our history are due in large measure to the training and mentorship provided by chief petty officers.

Chief Yeoman Joseph Phinizy salutes as he walks through sideboys during a pinning ceremony at the Hickam Chapel on Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam Sept. 13.

(U.S. Navy photo

by MCSN Aja B. Jackson)

“Our Navy’s achievements throughout our history are due in large measure to the training and mentorship provided by chief petty officers.”

I sent a letter to all of the chiefs who just donned their anchors, and I’ve charged them and those who already wear anchors to think about the Chiefs Mess as an institution: the sum of the daily acts, both small and large, that continue to challenge us and force us to rise to the standards of those who came before. The actions that will leave our Navy in a better position tomorrow. I also told them that this can’t happen from the physical space of the Mess. They have to be constantly involved in their Sailors’ lives on and off duty.

Chiefs, carrying forward the legacy of those who came before you will test you, and will draw on all the skills, knowledge, and experiences that formed the basis for your selection. The demands you face are tall indeed, and I have high expectations of our chief petty officers, as do the Sailors you serve and lead.

However, I am confident that you’ll rise to meet these obligations, making the most of each and every day, leading Sailors and officers to fulfill the promise of their potential. The challenges we face as a Navy and a nation demand that you do so, as do those who wore anchors before you. We need your best efforts more than ever. I want every chief in the fleet, new and old, to remember that the Navy not only expects more of you, but demands it— now more than ever.

To those of you who donned your anchors, congratulations. You are now the chief! Thank you for all that you do, and I’ll see you out in the fleet.

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 /

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USS OLYMPIA Completes Around the World deployment

By COMSUBPAC Public Affairs

Friends and families of the crew gathered on the submarine pier at Joint Base Pearl HarborHickam Sept. 8 to welcome Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717) home from a seven-month, around-theworld deployment, and conducting operations to support national security.

“Olympia and her crew performed with excellence,” said Master Chief Electronics Technician (Radio) Arturo Placencia, Olympia’s chief of the boat, a native of Duncan, Oklahoma.

“For everyone aboard, this was the first time we completed a circumnavigation of the globe,” Placencia said. “As a Pacific Fleet boat, this was also our first deployment in the 5th and 6th Fleet [areas]. We have been training towards this deployment for months, and it was great to see the Sailors put their skills and knowledge to the test.”

“Our motto is ‘We do difficult things with excellence, strength and honor,’ and that’s exactly what our Sailors did,” he added.

During its deployment, Olympia made port visits to Souda Bay, Greece and to Gibraltar, “to foster and sustain relationships with the Gibraltarian and Royal Navy,” said Cmdr.

Benjamin Selph, Olympia’s commanding officer. “The crew of Olympia welcomed British Parliament members on a tour of the mighty Olympia during our visit. We joined the crew of HMS Talent (S92) in a day of barbeque and friendly sports competitions of soccer, football and volleyball. There was also a promotion ceremony for two Olympia Sailors and a dolphin presentation aboard Talent,” Selph said.

During their scheduled port call to Souda Bay, Olympia’s crew completed an expeditionary weapons load to demonstrate their warfighting capabilities.

“Our submarine force operates globally with allies and partners to ensure high-end warfighting capability in this era of great power competition,” said Rear Adm. Blake Converse, commander of the Submarine Force for U.S. Pacific Fleet. “Submarine crews, like Olympia, train and operate every day to guarantee we are ready to fight tonight.”

During the deployment, 35 Sailors earned their submarine warfare qualification, and 29 achieved advanced supervisory qualifications.

“The Navy ensures the safety of the seas and 10 / September 23, 2019 / Ho’okele

“

Submarine crews, like Olympia, train and operate every day to guarantee we are ready to fight tonight.” the security of the world’s oceans to provide safe global commerce, and I got to be part of that,” said Machinist’s Mate (Nuclear) 3rd Class William Christmas, from Warner Robins, Georgia. “It was an amazing experience passing the equator and being able to participate in a Shellback ceremony with the crew.”

This western Pacific deployment is scheduled to be Olympia’s last before it heads to Bremerton, Washington, for inactivation.

“Olympia has completed its final deployment after 35 years of service, circumnavigating the globe in seven months starting from Oahu, Hawaii, transiting through the Panama Canal, Strait of Gibraltar and Suez Canal,” Selph said. “Sailing around the world in our country’s oldest serving nuclear-powered Los Angelesclass fast-attack submarine is a testament to the durability and design of the submarine, but also the tenacity and ‘fight on’ spirit of the crew.”

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

Cmdr. Benjamin Selph, commanding officer of the Los Angeles class fast-attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717), is greeted by his family during Olympia’s homecoming at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 8. (U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Amanda Gray)

The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717) returns home to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 8 following a seven-month deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Amanda Gray)

Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class (nuclear) Henry Wagner, from Baltimore, Maryland, assigned to the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717), holds his newborn son for the first time during Olympia’s homecoming Sept. 8. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Michael B. Zingaro)

Electronics Technician (Nuclear) 1st Class Todd Bolen, from Phoenix, Arizona, assigned to the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717), hugs his girlfriend during Olympia’s homecoming at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept.

8. (U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Michael B. Zingaro)

The crew of the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Olympia (SSN 717) returns home to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Sept. 8 from a seven month deployment.

(U.S. Navy photo by MC2 Michael B. Zingaro)

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 / 11

Joint Services Spread

Suicide Prevention Awareness T

By Anna General Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

he Military and Family Support Center (MFSC) at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam hosted a Joint Services Suicide Prevention Proclamation ceremony and Human Awareness Ribbon Sept. 10 in support of National Suicide Awareness Month.

Service members from every branch of service, Department of Defense personnel as well as military and their families attended the event, which took place at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange parking lot.

Capt. Jeff Bernard, commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, led the proclamation ceremony and provided his opening remarks.

“Suicide affects the lives of our military members, civilian personnel, contractors, families, and the mission of our nation,” Bernard said. “It is the belief for Fight For Each Other (F4EO) that through hosting a series of talks from people directly impacted by suicide, we can save lives, remove stigmas, and encourage help-seeking behaviors.”

Bernard also pointed out that the joint base MFSC suicide prevention awareness team was recently cited by the Secretary of Defense as the leader in U.S. Navy installations for suicide prevention and awareness.

“That means that people that you have the opportunity to talk to about this very important topic know what they are talking about and can help you,”

Capt. Jeff Bernard, commander, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam and leaders from across all branches of service came together to sign the 2019 Suicide Prevention Proclamation in support of suicide prevention and suicide awareness at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange Sept. 10. (Photo by Army Maj. Melodie Tafao)

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Bernard said. “Use your resources, they are there for you.”

Following Bernard’s opening remarks, retired Air Force Col. Rob Swanson who has been a keynote speaker for the “Fight For Each Other” project shared his personal stories as the guest speaker.

The event also included approximately 400 people filling a human chain in the shape of a yellow suicide awareness ribbon.

“This is our second year forming a human awareness ribbon to take a stand for suicide prevention and show there is a whole community to turn to for help,” said Melanie Beachy, organizer of the event and training instructor for MFSC. “We have been

seeking support across the installation, as well as across the island from base to base.”

Volunteers and participants helped to make the event successful and special.

“We thank the outpouring of support of this event. Suicide prevention starts with people connecting and this event showed the true spirit of aloha as the community came together to make this event happen,” said Beachy.

Concluding the events, organizers from MFSC also held a minisuicide prevention fair that included information and resource booths.

For more information about suicide prevention month, visit https://www. veteranscrisisline.net/support/be-there.

Col. Mark F. Schoenfeld, 9th Mission Support Command Chief of Staff, signs the 2019 Joint Services Suicide Prevention Proclamation on World Suicide Prevention Day in support of suicide awareness at the Pearl Harbor Navy Exchange Sept. 10.

(Photo by Army Maj. Melodie Tafao)

Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen candidate and instructor award winners salute in formation at Midway Ceremonial Drill Hall at Recruit Training Command (RTC) during their graduation ceremony marking the completion NROTC New Student Indoctrination Cycle 2. (U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Amanda S. Kitchner)

NROTC at UH Manoa

By Scott A. Thornbloom Naval Service Training Command

The Navy will establish a new Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) unit at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, beginning in academic year 2021-2022.

This partnership between the Navy and the University of Hawaii at Manoa marks the first time the NROTC program is available to college students in the state of Hawaii.

“The people of Hawaii have always played a central role in the strength and capability of the Navy-Marine Corps team,” said Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer. “This partnership will increase opportunities for University of Hawaii students to achieve an education while pursuing a rewarding naval career, so that they can write the

next chapter in the legacy of great naval leadership from the aloha state.”

Naval Service Training Command, which oversees the NROTC program, will establish the unit, including staff and agreements with the university for facilities and other requirements. Students are anticipated to be able to apply through the NROTC website in summer or fall of 2020. Additional details will be released when they are available.

The NROTC program develops young men and women morally, mentally and physically and instills in them the highest ideals of honor, courage and commitment. The program educates and trains young men and women for leadership positions in an increasingly technical Navy and Marine Corps.

(U.S. Navy photo by MC1 Amanda S. Kitchner)

Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen candidates participate in a uniform inspection at Recruit Training Command (RTC).

The candidates are part of the New Student Indoctrination (NSI) Cycle 2.

(U.S. Navy photo

by MC1 Amanda S. Kitchner)

Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) midshipmen candidates participate in the U.S. Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test at Recruit Training Command (RTC) as part of NROTC New Student Indoctrination.

(U.S. Navy photo

by MC1 Amanda S. Kitchner)

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 / 13

A Race for Remembrance Story and photos by Erin Huggins JBPHH Public Affairs

Military boots lined the streets of Ford Island for the 8th annual 8K Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk or Roll Sept. 7.

Despite the early morning heat, thousands of military members, civilians and family members gathered to participate in this popular annual event at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Commonly referred to as “The Boots Run,” each boot that lined the race route was adorned with an identification tag and an American flag. The boots represent service members who have been killed since Sept. 11, 2001 and served as a visual representation of their sacrifice.

This year, over 8,000 boots were placed across Ford Island for the event.

Participants began the race near the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum air traffic control tower. The route spanned across the Ford Island Bridge and around the island’s loop road of O’Kane and Chafee Boulevards.

Prior to the start of the race, Joint Base Commander, Capt. Jeffery Bernard, talked to race participants about the importance of the event as well as thanking those in attendance for getting up early to partake in this humbling occasion.

Many racers said they were there to pay their respects and honor the memories of fallen Sailors, Airmen, Soldiers and Marines. Others said they were there to run for a lost friend or loved one who is no longer alive or who no longer had the mobility to be able to compete in such events.

As racers made their way down the route, some would occasionally pause to read an identification tag on a boot. Others took pictures or knelt and prayed near a boot because they knew that service member personally.

Event founder and organizer, Theresa Johnson said that she was inspired to create this race after a close family friend, Timothy Vimoto, was killed in action in 2007.

“This event is the direct result of Tim’s death but it was created to celebrate his life and the stories of his fallen service members,” said Johnson. “Each year thousands of people gather in Hawaii to run this event in honor of them all.”

14 14/ September / September23, 23,2019 2019/ Ho’okele / Ho’okele

Joint Base Commander Capt. Jeffery Bernard, thanks the participants and event organizer’s for attending the 8th annual 8K Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk, or Roll event at JBPHH Sept. 7.

Boots line the route of the 8th annual 8K Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk, or Roll held on Sept. 7 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Participants in the 8th annual 8K Hero & Remembrance Run, Walk, or Roll pass by the boots of fallen service members.

Ho’okele 15 Ho’okele // September September 23.

23, 2019 2019 // 15

PACAF HOST US, Sri Lanka Airman-to-Airman talks

By PACAF Public Affairs

Pacific Air Forces hosted service members from the Sri Lanka air force for Airman-toAirman (A2A) talks at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Aug. 19-22.

like we have today or, if we go into a more aggressive time in the future,” said Burgy.

The A2A talks enabled four days of constructive discussions as well as personal The multi-day event marked time for people to get to know the third A2A talks between the one another.

U.S. and Sri Lanka.

“The Airman-to-Airman talks A2A talks are jointly held discussions between the U.S. and partner nation air forces designed to bolster relations and provide an opportunity to share best practices from a variety of subject matter areas.

conducted by Pacific Air Forces with nations throughout the Pacific are important for a couple reasons, number one being the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s objectives can’t happen without the allies and “The commander of U.S. Indo- friends we have throughout the Pacific Command’s objectives region,” said Burgy. “In order to make allies and for this entire region is a free and open Indo-Pacific region,” friends we have to said Maj. Gen. David Burgy, Air bridge the gaps we National Guard assistant to the have between us.”

PACAF commander. “In order During the fourto do that it takes partnerships day visit, SLAF and allies across the field, and and U.S. Air that’s a lot about why we’re Force senior here today.” leaders engaged in three different Partnerships and building lasting relationships are a key working groups: humanitarian focus for A2A talks. assistance and “We want to understand disaster relief, each other and to build our air and maritime strengths, opportunities and domain awareness, to see our weaknesses so we and force can find a solution for them,” development. said Sri Lanka air force Chief “I came with proper of Staff Air Vice Marshal planning and Sudarshana Pathirana. “My expectations to gain key point for this discussion benefits for both today is to understand the diplomacy of the two air forces. our countries during How can we put our resources these Airmanto-Airman talks,” to engage in diplomacy and said Pathirana. “I further details of training and came here with engagements?” expectations and Burgy stressed the importance I am leaving here of making sure friendships and a happy person allies are steady now in times because I feel that I have of peace. met the expectations and I’m looking forward to working “Steady, frequent, repetitive toward achieving the goals engagement is the key to we have set for the next building the relationships that five years.” will endure across peacetime 16 / September 23, 2019 / Ho’okele

Air Vice Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, Sri Lanka air force chief of staff, and Maj. Gen. David Burgy, Air National Guard assistant to the Pacific Air Forces commander, sign documents during the Airman-toAirman talks at JBPHH Aug. 22.

(U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Mikaley Kline)

Air Vice Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, Sri Lanka air force chief of staff, is greeted by members of the 15th Maintenance Group at JBPHH Aug. 20. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Mikaley Kline)

Navy Electrical

Costs Increase In Hawaii

By Capt. Marc Delao Commanding Officer, NAVFAC Hawaii

Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Hawaii electricity customers must become more energy conscious and efficient as they experience a rise in costs this new fiscal year.

As your provider of Navy electricity in Hawaii, it is my responsibility to inform you of a rise in the costs for electricity that will be billed to you in Fiscal Year 2020 (starting Oct. 1, 2019). The upcoming increase is the result of Navy financial decisions made at the highest level that will affect the various products and services provided by NAVFAC organizations worldwide and comes at a time when electrical rates in Hawaii have been purposely structured to be significantly lower than market rates during Fiscal Years 2018 and 2019.

Directed by Department of Navy (DON) budgetary reform actions, in FY20, the NAVFAC organization will become a General Fund (GF) organization, similar to many other Navy commands. Unlike its current Navy Working Capital Fund (NWCF) financial system, GF does not provide unchanging stabilized rates throughout the year. Instead, customers will now see and be subject

to, market-driven cost fluctuations from month to month.

power bills that are paid on a reimbursable basis throughout the year.

In addition to the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) that NAVFAC purchases electricity from municipal power suppliers like the Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), customers will pay a fully burdened cost.

This includes all Navy costs associated with purveying the electrical commodity to the point of consumption, such as labor, materials, overhead and billing operations, repairs, and sustainment, restoration and modernization of the infrastructure, along with a corporate recovery cost tied to the financial transition.

In FY20, the calculated, estimated cost for electricity, based on April 2019 electricity market prices, for Navy customers on Oahu will be $.39 kWh / Kauai Navy customers electrical cost will be $.59 kWh. However, for Public Private Venture (PPV) partners and private residents who receive electricity from a Navy-owned power grid in Hawaii, a CNIC and NAVFAC decision made on Sept.

10 provides a cost variance this coming fiscal year. Instead, they will be charged a rate no higher than the local utility residential rate, approximately $.32 kWh.

In Hawaii, we have among the highest electricity costs per kilowatt-hour in the nation. This fact has added to the FY20 cost increase of electricity NAVFAC Hawaii will be delivering to its Navy and non-Navy customers on Oahu and Kauai.

This variance is limited to the PPV agreements and private residential customers only. All other reimbursable parties (such as food franchises, other DoD Services, NAF, etc.) will be charged the FY20 GF fully burdened cost.

On Oahu and Kauai, the DON purchases electricity from the Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) and Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC). The commodity is then fed into Navy-owned power grids at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH), and Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF).

With these changes starting on Oct. 1, energy conservation has never been more important. You can’t control the billing rate but you can control your consumption.

Your actions – military, civilians, non-DoD customers will determine how much more or less your organization’s electricity bills will be in FY20. Every kilowatt hour saved will reduce your electricity bill.

For many Navy command customers in Hawaii, the increase in electricity costs will be covered by the transfer of funds from Higher Headquarters and Budget Submitting Offices to CNIC. All non-Navy electricity customers will see the cost increase in their

PPV residential customers are invited to attend townhall meetings on Sept. 23 and 24 at 6 p.m. at the Hickam Memorial Theater.

Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 / 17

Air Force Celebrates

72

nd

Birthday Sept. 18

THIS IS

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE Since 1947

kaiaulu (community)

September/October Upcoming Events

26 SEPT

National Hispanic Heritage Celebration Special Meal Hale Aina Dining Facility will be serving up a special meal from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Open to active duty, dependents, retirees and DoD civilians. For more information, call 808448-1068.

3 OCT High-Tech Parenting

28 SEPT Abandoned Vehicle Sale Looking for a used vehicle? Visit the lot on South Avenue from 8 a.m to 2 p.m. Vehicles are sold as-is. Event is free and open to military and DoD ID cardholders only. See a list of available vehicles at jbphh.greatlifehawaii.com, or call 808-471-9072 for more information.

27 SEPT Float Night

Help your children understand the safety of social media and the internet from 10 a.m. to noon at the Military & Family Support Center. To register, visit jbphh. greatlifehawaii.com/support/ or call 808-474-1999.

8 OCT Hispanic Heritage Month Observance

The Joint Base Diversity Committee is hosting a recognition ceremony to commemorate National Hispanic Heritage Month at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Chapel from 10 to 11 a.m. For more information, call 808-473-6754.

Bring your pool floats and enjoy free ice cream from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Scott Pool. Event is free and open to all ages.

For more information, call 808-473-0394.

NOW

Fall Craft Camp Register your children for this four-day session from Oct. 8 to 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Arts & Craft Center. Cost is $70 per person and open to ages 7 and up. For more information, call 808-448-9907.

29 SEPT Oktoberfest

Come and enjoy a good time filled with food, singing, dancing, and music from the Gruber Family Band from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Paradise Lounge in Club Pearl. This event is free and open to ages 18 years and older. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. For more information, visit www.greatlifehawaii.com.

28 SEPT

Hispanic Heritage Celebration at the Library Enjoy themed music, stories and crafts while learning about the culture from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the JBPHH Library.

Event is free and open to all ages. For more information, call 808-449-8299.

s e m i t w o h S e i v Mo

2 OCT Paint & Sip

Paint your masterpiece while sipping on a beverage from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Tradewinds. Cost is $40 and includes all art supplies. Advance sign-up is recommended. For more information, call 808-448-9907.

Hickam Memorial Theater Sharkey Theater Open to ac�ve-duty military and their family members, re�rees, DoD civilians and their sponsored guests. *Movie lis�ngs are subject to change.

Visit www.greatlifehawaii.com for the complete movie lis�ng.

Located at Moore Street Bldg. 628 on the Pearl Harbor side of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Editor's Note: Sharkey Theater is closed for renovations until Sept. 27.

Please contact the movie hotline at 808-473-0726 for more information or check their website for the latest updates at www.greatlifehawaii.com.

Located at 7393 Ohana Nui Circle on the Hickam side of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

Thursday, Sept. 26 • 6:30 p.m. Overcomer (PG) Friday, Sept. 27 • 7 p.m. Good Boys (R) Saturday, Sept. 28 • 3 p.m. The Angry Birds Movie 2 (PG), 6 p.m.

Don't Let it Go (R) Sunday, Sept. 29 • 2 p.m. Dora and the Lost City of Gold (PG), 4:30 p.m. Overcomer (PG) Tuesday, Oct. 1 • 6 p.m. Free Advance Screening featuring "Last Full Measure" (R) Thursday, Oct. 3 • 6:30 p.m. Blinded by the Light (PG-13) Ho’okele / September 23, 2019 / 19

FACTS Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Hispanic Heritage Month stands out from other cultural observances in that it spans two different months: September and October.

The date of this observance was chosen to coincide with important events in many communities, including several independence days throughout Latin America.

Sharing the dream of equality and boundless opportunity, many Hispanics have marched for social justice, defended our country, and helped advance America’s journey toward a mor e perfect Nation.

Hispanics Americans have had a profound and positive influence on our country through their strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service.

This month, the Department of Defense acknowledges these vital contributions and celebrates Hispanic heritage.