Navy News for Dec 3rd 2008

December 3, 2008 by Da-Chief
Filed under Military Information, Navy News

Navy News Service for Wednesday, December 03, 2008

NNS081203-19. Navy Working Uniform Details and Instructional Video Announced

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41215

DNU — Headlines from around the fleet: The Secretary of Defense Robert Gates decides to stay in office; USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) finishes Continuing Promise 2008.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11862

NNS081203-01. Deputy Secretary England Announces Departure

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41227

NNS081203-12. Wasp Exceeds Aviation Readiness Expectations

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41213

NNS081203-08. Seabees Get Potable Water Flowing in Djibouti

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41179

NNS081203-06. Lincoln Honored for Retention Record

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41111

NNS081203-14. Sigonella FISC Streamlines Camp Lemonier’s Logistical Operations

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41186

NNS081203-11. Helicopter Squadron Returns from Deployment with Kearsarge

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41222

NNS081203-13. Blue Ridge Builds Relationships Then Departs Hong Kong

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41205

NNS081203-15. Rota Fire Department Lights Off New Training Center – Literally

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41190

DNU — USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) returns to San Diego.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11861

NNS081203-05. Sailors Unite for Suicide Prevention

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41223

NNS081203-09. Wasp Celebrates Chaplain Corps Birthday, Mission of Service

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41228

NNS081203-17. Chief of Chaplains Visits CFAY, Praises Chapel of Hope Team

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41234

NNS081203-10. Bataan Hosts ‘Boots-on-the-Deck’ Program

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41225

NNS081203-18. Yokosuka FFSC Emphasizes Responsible Holiday Spending

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41233

NNS081203-16. USS Arizona Survivors Honor Fallen Shipmates

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41231

DNU — The British Royal Navy celebrates the Trafalgar Battle with Sailors at Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11866

NNS081203-07. Navy Exchange Jacksonville Lights “Giving Tree”

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41129

DNU — USS Boxer (LHD 4) Sailors say “Go Navy, Beat Army”.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11863

DNU — Combat Systems Engineering Sailors say “Go Navy, Beat Army

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11865

DNU — Misawa Air Base, Japan Sailors celebrate Thanksgiving.

– http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11864

NNS081203-02. Current Daily News Update

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=41220

NNS011210-06. This Day in Naval History – Dec. 03

– http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=285

Eye on the Fleet – U.S. Navy Photo of The Day

– http://www.navy.mil/list_single.asp?id=67056

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NNS081203-19. Navy Working Uniform Details and Instructional Video Announced

From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) — The Chief of Naval Personnel released detailed information about the delivery schedule, manner of wear and occasion for wear for the Navy Working Uniform (NWU) Dec. 2 in NAVADMIN 343/08.

An instructional video was also posted on the NPC Web site www.npc.navy.mil/commandsupport/usnavyuniforms/ and on NKO at https://wwwa.nko.navy.mil/portal/alertscommunity/home/whatsnewonnko.

According to the message, the NWU is intended for year-round wear and shall be the standard working uniform ashore. The NWU will replace working utilities, tropical working uniforms, wash khakis, winter working blue, aviation working green, and non-tactical/environmental usage of camouflage utility uniforms.

The NWU is designed to be worn in sea and ashore environments that do not require special clothing (e.g., flight, flight deck, engine room, etc.). Unless otherwise prescribed by the regional commander, the NWU is authorized to be worn at all facilities on base, while commuting to/from work and home via POV, public transportation, and on government/military flights to/from OCONUS locations.

Routine stops while commuting are not authorized with an exception for genuine emergencies, such as medical emergencies and vehicle breakdowns.

For environmental extremes the following modifications are authorized when granted by appropriate authority.

(1) The NWU shirt may be removed on job sites or in work spaces.

(2) NWU trousers may be worn unbloused on job sites or in workspaces.

(3) During the winter or inclement periods, the parka hood is authorized for wear in addition to head gear. Black leather gloves are authorized.

The NWU will be available for purchase via designated Navy Exchange Uniform Centers as follows:

Dec 08 – Navy leadership (flag officers, commanding officers/OICs, (9580/9579/9578) command master/senior chiefs, and chiefs of the boat) via Navy Exchange Uniform Support Center at 800-368-4088 or 757-502-7450.

Jan 09 – Tidewater

Apr 09 – Southeast

Jul 09 – Northeast

Oct 09 – Capital region

Jan 10 – Western/northwest

Apr 10 – Gulf region

Jul 10 – Hawaii

Oct 10 – Europe/Japan/Guam

All existing working uniforms will continue to be authorized for wear until December 2010. Sailors who have not been issued NWU’s at recruit training command or purchased NWU’s while assigned to an active rollout location must maintain their current working uniforms until the NWU is available in the area assigned. This policy also applies to Sailors wearing the new service uniform announced earlier in 2008.

FY08 and FY09 clothing replacement allowances have been adjusted to facilitate purchasing four sets of NWU shirts and trousers by December 2010. Reserve component Sailors will receive their uniforms via their respective Navy Operational Support Centers.

For more information on uniforms and uniform policy, visit the uniform matters Web site at www.npc.navy.mil/commandsupport/usnavyuniforms/.

For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnp/.

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NNS081203-01. Deputy Secretary England Announces Departure

From the Department of Defense

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Deputy Secretary of Defense Gordon England announced Dec. 2 that he will not be staying with Secretary Robert Gates in the Obama Administration.

“I congratulate President-elect Obama for retaining Bob Gates as secretary, and I salute Bob Gates for his continued commitment,” England said.

“However, it’s time for me to leave. When I came into government in early 2001, I anticipated serving for two to four years. After almost eight years, it’s now time for me to turn over the reins to a successor. Also, it’s most appropriate for the new administration to name its own deputy.”

England said he will stay for some time past Jan. 20, if requested, to assure a smooth transition.

England added, “It’s been an astonishing time to serve the nation under President Bush and alongside Secretaries Don Rumsfeld and Bob Gates, each of whom I greatly admire. I thank the brave men and women of our military, and their families, for their service and sacrifice, and for the honor of serving them.”

For more news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.

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NNS081203-12. Wasp Exceeds Aviation Readiness Expectations

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrew McCord, USS Wasp Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) — USS Wasp (LHD 1) Air Department completed the first phase of the aviation readiness qualification (ARQ) Nov. 20 with a “superior” display of proficiency during the drills.

“When the Afloat Training Group (ATG)–Atlantic inspectors came on board they said that these were the best drills they had seen in a very, very long time,” said Wasp Air Training Team Leader Chief Warrant Officer Benjamin Marshall. “The drills were so good that they want to bring a film crew out here to record us so they can show it to other ships in the fleet on how it should be done.”

ARQ is a necessary assessment that each large deck ship must pass to be considered deployment-ready. More specifically, it is designed to ensure that all air department personnel are fully qualified and that the aircraft equipment is in proper working order.

The assessment is composed of three sections – a drill portion, a materials portion and an operational portion which allows the crew to demonstrate their abilities to launch and recover both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Wasp completed the first two assessments during ATG’s visit and will complete the third once the ship departs Norfolk Naval Shipyard, in Portsmouth, Va., where it is currently wrapping up a maintenance period.

“We need to show that our air department personnel are qualified in their positions in order to get underway and execute the mission,” said Wasp Flight Deck Leading Chief Petty Officer Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handler) Omar Lee. “We need to show that we are ready and capable of going into a combat zone and that we can do it effectively.”

In preparing for the ARQ, Wasp faced two challenges: Training “green,” inexperienced Sailors and teaching them in a shipyard environment not necessarily conducive for success.

“With 40 percent departmental turnover, we had more than 50 new bodies, many of them straight out of [apprenticeship] school,” said Wasp Assistant Air Officer Lt. Cmdr. William Delmar. “Taking that demographic into consideration, and considering that we were training in less-than-perfect conditions on the ship, they performed beyond expectations. It was the best set of drills I’ve seen, and I credit our air training team for their training and leadership.”

Marshall noted that those less-than-perfect conditions also created compressed training schedules in some instances.

“We’ve been preparing on the flight deck for the last seven to eight months. But, with the hangar bay, with all the work that has been going on, we were only able to prepare for the last three days,” he said. “We had to learn to integrate [a repair locker] that had a lot of new guys, and they did an awesome job. We were coming in at 5 a.m. every morning, and we worked hard all the way until about 5 p.m. every afternoon to get it done.”

Sailors who participated in the drill were understandably pleased with their performances, as high-fives, handshakes and even hugs abounded at the conclusion of the assessment.

“We stayed late, and we worked hard, and we showed them we’re ready,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Fuels) 2nd Class Courtney Godfrey. “Sometimes it’s hard being in the yards. But, when we knew ATG was coming, we knew that meant the yard period was almost over. We were pumped up, and now at the end of it, we know we’re ready to go catch birds (land aircraft).”

For more news from USS Wasp (LHD 1), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd1/.

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NNS081203-08. Seabees Get Potable Water Flowing in Djibouti

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SCW/SW/AW) Ronald Gutridge, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4 Det. Horn of Africa Public Affairs

CAMP LEMONIER, Djibouti (NNS) — A crew of four Seabees attached to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4, based out of Naval Base Ventura County, Calif., is currently constructing a second reverse osmosis water purification unit (ROWPU), aboard Camp Lemonier to provide additional potable water to meet the camp’s demand.

The treatment of water is necessary to prevent various waterborne diseases such as typhoid and dysentery. Treatment processes must control certain chemical and physical characteristics of water such as hardness or unpleasant taste. The function of the ROWPU is not only to make water safe for human consumption but also make water less scale forming and more suitable for use in laundries, shower facilities, dining facilities and other places.

With the help of the Pacific Architects and Engineering (PAE) contract employees, the Seabees are installing three, 63 inch by 113 inch water filters, called reverse osmosis, or RO elements, mounted on a concrete foundation that the Seabees previously constructed.

These elements are the backbone of the ROWPU system and are critical to the purification of untreated water. After the first RO element was installed, half the crew started connecting the plumbing and 18 pneumatic control valves, used to control water pressure and flow, as the other half continued placing the remaining two filters.

“This particular project is providing this crew a lot of valuable training on the ROWPU’s,” said Utilitiesman 2nd Class (SCW) Sammy German, project crew leader. “Being deployed to a part of the world where clean water is almost impossible to access, this system improves the quality of life for not only service members but to everybody that lives or works on this camp. My crew is proud knowing what they are doing will benefit future deployments here for years to come.”

The ROWPU can produce potable water from a variety of raw water sources such as wells, lakes, rivers and oceans. The water for Camp Lemonier’s ROWPUs is supplied by six wells located in the surrounding Djibouti area and one well on camp.

The camp currently uses an estimated 190,000 gallons of water per day produced by the main ROWPU. Once complete, the second ROWPU will produce an additional 350,000 gallons of potable water per day. Not only will it produce the additional water, it will also act as a backup system for when the main ROWPU is being cleaned or serviced.

Because of the strict quality control guidelines, the water is tested for purity on a daily basis and meets or exceeds all required standards according to the Camp Lemonier Medical Department. The Seabee crew will also install an air-operated auto backwash system used to clean the second set of RO elements. A timer system will be installed to control the backwash periods between the two systems, ensuring potable water is being produced at all times. With the proper cleaning and maintenance, these filters are designed to last for more than 20 years.

The camps drinking water supply was certified as potable Oct. 27, potentially saving the military more than $3 million a year in bottled water needed for the camp personnel’s daily needs according to Camp Lemonier’s Supply Department.

Before the certification, Camp Lemonier depended on several outside vendors to supply potable water. Rising costs and uncertifiable water was an ongoing battle. Also, the dependability of on-time delivery was always at stake. By early February 2009 the second ROWPU is scheduled to be fully operational, providing enough certified potable water to meet the camp’s water demand.

“It puts my mind at ease knowing that when I brush my teeth or have a drink out of the fountains at the dining facility, it is healthy and safe,” said Constructionman Thong Nguyen of NMCB 4, “It is a good feeling to know that I took part in making this possible.”

NMCB 4 is on a six-month deployment in support of Combined Joint Task Force–Horn of Africa, completing missions in various countries in Eastern Africa.

For more news from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 4, visit www.navy.mil/local/nmcb4/.

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NNS081203-06. Lincoln Honored for Retention Record

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Geoffery Lewis, USS Abraham Lincoln Public Affairs

EVERETT, Wash. (NNS) — USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) achieved a milestone by making the Navy’s Retention Honor Roll fourth quarter fiscal year and received the Retention Excellence Award Nov. 19 for the first time in five years.

Commands must have 48 percent or more of their first-term Sailors reenlist to get the award for retention excellence. Last quarter, 61.9 percent of Lincoln’s reenlistments were by first-term Sailors. In the quarter before that, 65.6 percent were first term, said Senior Chief Navy Counselor (AW/SW) Dena Scott, of Littleton, Colo.

“We have a very proactive career development team,” Scott said. “They ensure Sailors receive career development boards along with the proper tools and information to make an informed decision about staying Navy.”

Commands that receive the retention honor roll for the quarter are allowed to fly the honor roll pennant for the next quarter; those that receive retention excellence may fly the pennant for a year and can paint their anchors gold.

Incentives for Sailors, such as educational benefits and selective reenlistment bonuses (SRB), were major contributions to Lincoln receiving the award.

Depending on the award level for a given rating and Navy enlisted classification (NEC) code, Sailors can receive an SRB from $5,000 to as much as $100,000 for reenlisting.

Lincoln Sailors received nearly $2.5 million this past quarter in combined SRBs. Sailors who reenlisted the quarter before that raked in more than $1.7 million, bringing the grand total to roughly $4.2 million.

Although incentives often make the decision to stay Navy that much easier, some continue to serve simply because they like what they do and the people with whom they work. Command Master Chief (SW/AW) Eric Schmidt, Lincoln’s command master chief, said a command’s ability to retain its talented personnel is a direct reflection of morale.

“If morale is high, retention is high. If morale is low, retention is low,” Schmidt said. “The fact that this command hadn’t earned the recognition several years is an indicator of just how far we have come. Bravo Zulu to the command career counselors for their great work.”

For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn72/.

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NNS081203-14. Sigonella FISC Streamlines Camp Lemonier’s Logistical Operations

From Commander, Navy Region Europe Public Affairs

SIGONELLA, Italy (NNS) — Commander Navy Region Europe (CNRE) and Fleet and Industrial Supply Center (FISC) Sigonella personnel led a Lean Six Sigma (L6S) continuous process improvement (CPI) value stream analysis (VSA) event Oct. 22-24 at Camp Lemonier, Djibouti (CLDJ), to streamline logistical operations in the Horn of Africa (HOA).

Under the policy guidance of U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and Commander, Naval Forces Africa, a team of 24 personnel developed a strategy for improvement, leveraging lean concepts and tools designed to restructure the logistical lifeline for HOA-based forces.

“This approach of bringing together key logistics stakeholders facilitated a successful review of ‘as is’ distribution and logistics processes,” said Capt. Brian Sheppard, the logistics lead for AFRICOM.

One of the first goals for the L6S team was the development of an improvement strategy for short and long-term objectives at CLDJ that highlight six key areas: contracting acquisition and requisition process, internal and external theater DoD air and surface transportation routes, commercial air shipment processes, and forward stock positioning, delivery and receipt to warfighters in the theater.

“This review helped target key areas for improvement, which led to our consensus on short and long-term goals and objectives that will result in necessary change and excellent overall improvements,” said FISC Sigonella Commander Capt. John Camuso.

According to Camuso, these six strategies focus on the identification of requirements; acquisition services; transportation; reverse supply chain management and fuels processes; and fulfillment of requirements.

Since transitioning under the scope of AFRICOM and CNRE on Oct. 1 of this year, Camp Lemonier’s future as an enduring base has continued to evolve and solidify, driving the need for a comprehensive review of the logistical infrastructure that supports the camp’s evolving mission requirements.

Though a L6S stream analysis normally takes four to five days, Camuso said this team was able to achieve it in two because of hard work and prudent planning.

“The team did a great job with prior planning and preparation to ensure all necessary components of the VSA were meet in just two days,” said Camuso. “Because of this, the entire mission was a resounding success.”

Lean Six Sigma is an organizational performance improvement methodology. It is a fusion of Six Sigma, which focuses on identifying and eliminating variation in a process and Lean, with its focus on waste reduction. L6S represents the most highly evolved, process-focused approach for business improvement and was formally adopted by the Department of Defense in 2006.

For more news from Commander, Navy Region Europe, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnre/.

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NNS081203-11. Helicopter Squadron Returns from Deployment with Kearsarge

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Coleman Thompson, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Atlantic

NORFOLK (NNS) — Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 28 Detachment 5 returned Dec. 2 after a four-month deployment with USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) in support of the humanitarian/civic assistance mission Continuing Promise (CP) 2008.

CP 2008 provided medical and civil engineering support to several U.S. partner nations throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. HSC 28’s objective during the mission was to provide transportation for personnel and cargo.

“We built a couple schools, and we gave them medical treatment that they couldn’t really afford,” said Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 2nd Class (AW) Jonathon Dudley. “A lot of the reactions that we got from the people were positive; they liked it a lot.”

While underway, HSC 28 provided disaster relief to Haiti after the country was hit with hurricanes and tropical storms in September.

“We provided a lot of assistance in Haiti after the hurricane,” said Lt. j.g. Robert Kersey, the detachment’s maintenance officer. “We provided assistance, took in food and transported people. It felt great to help out people when they needed it.”

CP 2008 represented the United States’ high regard and respect for Latin America and the Caribbean and the Navy’s commitment to supporting partner nations.

“It felt good knowing that we could actually help out,” said Dudley. “It let the people know that we’re not just a war machine, but we can be a force for helping out people.”

For more news from Commander, Air Forces Atlantic, visit www.navy.mil/local/comnavairlant/.

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NNS081203-13. Blue Ridge Builds Relationships Then Departs Hong Kong

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Charles Oki, Fleet Public Affairs Center Japan

HONG KONG (NNS) — USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) and embarked U.S. 7th Fleet staff Sailors departed Hong Kong Nov. 30 after a successful five-day port visit.

The port visit was an opportunity for Sailors to explore the major metropolis, its rural areas and experience its diverse culture.

After anchoring in Victoria Harbour Nov. 25, the crew of Blue Ridge was given the opportunity to experience Hong Kong through a variety of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tours. Sailors visited cultural sites such as the Po Lin Monastery and the nearby Tian Tan Buddha statue – the world’s tallest seated Buddha statue – as well as popular tourist attractions such as the Happy Valley Racecourse and Hong Kong Disneyland.

For Gunner’s Mate 1st Class (SW) Christopher Powers, from Buffalo, N.Y., the thriving port of Hong Kong offers something new to do every time he visits.

“I love Hong Kong. It’s my third time being here,” said Powers. “When I came into the military, I wanted to see the world, and I think its easiest when you take tours like these because you don’t have to worry about scheduling it on your own or finding a liberty buddy who wants to go with you.”

Approximately 100 Sailors used some of their time off to participate in six community relations (COMREL) projects throughout Hong Kong. Sailors volunteered at large charitable organizations like Crossroads International, a Hong Kong-based nonprofit organization that takes donations in Hong Kong and distributes them around the world to those who have been struck by natural disasters or poverty. Sailors also spent time at the Fu Hong Society for the Disabled, a home for children with mental or physical disabilities.

“The COMREL project was a memorable and fun experience for both the kids and the Sailors who participated,” said Chief Fire Controlman (SW/AW) Eduardo Pareno from Antioch, Calif., who spent time with children at the Sze Wu Shu Min Nursery School. “I had so much fun and felt like a kid again. As a Sailor, I was honored to take part in the project.”

Despite being away from their forward deployed port of Yokosuka during Thanksgiving Day, the Blue Ridge and 7th Fleet crew still celebrated the holiday by taking part in a feast on the mess decks with all the classic turkey day dishes prepared by the ship’s award-winning food services division.

Some Sailors were also able meet locals through the “Meals in the Homes” program, which brought Sailors into local homes and businesses through sponsorship of an expatriate or local citizen.

Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Kevin Ruiz, from Redding, Calif., said being able to enjoy a home-cooked meal far from home was a great experience.

“It was a blast,” said Ruiz. “Our host made us an awesome home-cooked meal, and her kids were fun to play with. I would recommend ‘Meals in Homes’ to everyone. I really enjoyed it, and I’m going to do it every chance I get.”

Blue Ridge is commanded by Capt. Thom W. Burke and serves under Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 7/Task Force (CTF) 76, the Navy’s only forward-deployed amphibious force. Blue Ridge is the flagship for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. Task Force 76 is headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa, Japan, with an operating detachment in Sasebo, Japan.

For more news from USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19), visit www.navy.mil/local/lcc19/.

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NNS081203-15. Rota Fire Department Lights Off New Training Center – Literally

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class (SW) Paul Cage,Naval Station Rota Public Affairs

ROTA, Spain (NNS) — Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota’s Fire Department conducted its first burn exercise Nov. 26, officially opening a $450,000 state-of-the-art fire training center, the first of its kind in Navy Region Europe.

The new facility was funded by Commander, Navy Region Europe and will be used by NAVSTA Rota firefighters along with personnel from within the theater.

“This first burn, we wanted to make sure there were no bugs in it,” said Mark Brusoe, NAVSTA Rota Fire Department training officer. “Everybody that was working today got live fire experience in both of the burn rooms. These guys are all full qualified and certified firefighters, but we wanted to see how our burn center reacted to fire. It reacted very well and we are pleased with the results.”

The cement and metal-framed facility is two stories tall with roof access and also has a flat roof to perform all types of ladder and rescue operations. The inside has a small room that will double as a kitchen for firefighters to use in training fighting grease fires.

For many of the firefighters, unless they have responded to actual emergencies, this burn was the first live structural fire they have seen since graduating from the DoD Fire Academy.

“This allows us to practice responding to single story and multi-story emergencies that we respond to on and off base but in a controlled environment,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate Handling 1st Class (AW) Tony Rice. “This facility gives us the opportunity to train how we fight. And being that this is the only one of its kind in Navy Region Europe, we look forward to training with other firefighters from throughout the region.”

NAVSTA Rota is a new fire training hub for Navy Region Europe. On Dec. 1, firefighters from Sigonella and Sicily, both in Italy, and Souda Bay, Crete, came to the base to attend fire instructor one and fire inspector three courses that are only offered in Rota and nowhere else in Navy Region Europe.

“As an enduring base, this really fits into the plans of Region Europe consolidating resources. We can provide the training right here,” said Capt. Bill Mosk, NAVSTA Rota commanding officer. “To bring in folks from all around the region to [use] this training facility and use it as a central site for firefighters from all [is] not only great for Rota but for the whole region.”

For more news from Naval Station Rota, Spain, visit www.navy.mil/local/rota/.

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NNS081203-05. Sailors Unite for Suicide Prevention

From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLIGNTON, Tenn (NNS) — The Navy rolled out a new Suicide Prevention poster series Dec. 2 that encourages Sailors in distress to reach out for help and encourages shipmates to look out for each other.

“Sailors helped design the posters and determined what the messages would be,” said Lt. Cmdr. Bonnie Chavez, Behavioral Health Program manager for the Navy. “They were passionate on how to best help each other and represent the sense of community in the Navy.”

The series consists of four posters that will become available through normal supply channels starting in December. The themes of the posters range from, “How many Sailors does it take to save a life? Just one.” to “Got Big Problems” showing a group of Sailors working together, demonstrating that suicide prevention is an all hands evolution.

Recognizing the signs that a shipmate is in crisis is the first step and then taking the appropriate action is how anyone can save a life.

“If people remember to ACT, Ask, Care, Treat,” said Chavez, “They will be on the right path. Don’t be afraid to ask someone if they are thinking of taking their own life. Care enough to let the person know that suicidal feelings are temporary and that depression can be treated and then get help. Treat – take them to an emergency room or walk in clinic, don’t leave them alone, take action, remove means, such as guns, stockpiled pills, ropes, and sharp objects,” said Chavez.

Most people give some warning of their suicidal intentions to a friend or family member. Take all suicide threats seriously. To find out more information and to see a list of the warning signs go to www.suicide.navy.mil.

For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/npc/.

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NNS081203-09. Wasp Celebrates Chaplain Corps Birthday, Mission of Service

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class(SW/AW) Toni N. Burton, USS Wasp Public Affairs

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (NNS) — More than 600 Sailors aboard amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) gathered to celebrate the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps’ 233rd birthday Nov. 26.

“The service of the chaplain corps is to see to it that the objective faith and moral principles prevail, [are] well-protected and serve for the benefit of the common good of the military organization as a whole,” said Lt. Fulgencio Legaspi, Wasp deputy chaplain.

The observance recognized the chaplain corps’ rich tradition and history, in addition to their vision and mission.

“As we increase the [number] of men and women in the armed forces, the faith groups also [grow] proportionally,” Legaspi said. “As the faith groups increase in numbers, there is a need to have a ’shepherd’ to accommodate and meet their needs according to their beliefs and practices.”

The vision of the chaplain corps states: “Mission ready Sailors and Marines, and their families, demonstrating spiritual, moral and ethical maturity supported by the innovative delivery of religious ministry and compassionate pastoral care.”

Legaspi said part of his job as a chaplain is to provide spiritual guidance for those who seek it and to ensure individual beliefs remain.

“Chaplains have [always] been there to provide religious ministry and support to those of their own faith,” Legaspi said. “[Chaplains] facilitate for all religious beliefs, care for family and friends and advise commanders to ensure the free exercise of religion.”

The observance also recognized religious program specialists, an enlisted rate that provides support and contributes to what chaplains do for Sailors.

“The chaplain corps provides the support of all faiths and the moral well being of troops and Sailors alike. It is an honor for me to work with them,” said Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Nathan Byrd.

“To take a day to step back and respect the founding of the chaplain corps and its 233rd birthday shows that we still need a strong base of moral support. The observance of this fine group of Sailors (chaplains) provides remembrance of their naval heritage and what it means to be a chaplain and also reminds everyone that we have higher support.”

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Susan Neely said she appreciates what the chaplains do for the Navy.

“It was pretty good to acknowledge [chaplains] because they help so many people. They keep my morale up,” she said.

Legaspi said the he feels personal satisfaction in knowing that chaplains, in some way, contribute to the well-being of all people. This observance proves that in many ways, he said.

“This celebration means a lot to me as a chaplain on this ship,” said Legaspi. “With the many changes going on, indications that we, as individuals, are continuously moving forward as dynamic [people] providing change for the betterment of all and the world we live in.”

For more news from USS Wasp (LHD 1), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd1/.

-USN-

NNS081203-17. Chief of Chaplains Visits CFAY, Praises Chapel of Hope Team

By Ben Avey, Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka Public Affairs

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) — Chief of Navy Chaplains praised the work done by local chaplains and religious program specialists at the Chapel of Hope while on board Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) Nov. 17.

Rear Adm. Robert Burt met with the religious ministries team during a breakfast briefing at the chapel.

“The Chapel of Hope probably has the most robust command religious program in the Navy,” said Burt. “I am very, very pleased with the work our chaplains are doing here,” said Burt.

Visiting for the first time since becoming chief of chaplains, Burt spent several days on board CFAY attending religious services, conferring with chaplains and debriefing with local leadership on the needs of area personnel.

At the breakfast, Burt was provided with an extensive briefing by Cmdr. Derek Ross, Religious Programs command chaplain The briefing detailed the extent to which local chaplains work to provide spiritual and personal growth for area personnel on shore and while at sea.

CFAY command religious programs include 30 worship services, 10 bible studies, youth programs, religious education and community focused service for the estimated 27,000 active duty Sailors, family members, Department of Defense Educational Activities personnel, federal government employees and contract workers from more than 80 tenant commands at CFAY. The CFAY command religious program serves all 11 forward-deployed ships homeported in Yokosuka.

While it is no longer one of the forward-deployed ships, Burt shared his personal connection to many enlisted Sailors who once served aboard USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63).

In the early 1970s, Burt served on Kitty Hawk as a data processor. He regularly attended the ship’s religious services, sang duets with a shipmate for the congregation and befriended the ship’s chaplain. It was aboard Kitty Hawk that Burt realized his life’s calling and decided to combine his love for the Navy and his religious devotion by serving in the Chaplain Corps.

After completing his enlistment, Burt received his Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies from Eugene Bible College and his Master of Divinity degree from Western Evangelical Seminary. He rejoined the Navy as a commissioned officer and almost 30 years later, became the 24th chief of Navy chaplains.

“We were really honored that the chief of chaplains was able to take time away from his extraordinarily busy schedule to come out here and spend time with our chaplains and religious personnel,” Ross said. “It was an honor.”

For more news from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, visit www.navy.mil/local/cfay/.

-USN-

NNS081203-10. Bataan Hosts ‘Boots-on-the-Deck’ Program

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (SW/AW) Jeremy Grisham, USS Bataan Public Affairs

NORFOLK (NNS) — Naval leaders visited USS Bataan (LHD 5) Dec. 2 to tour aviation, supply and weapons department spaces as part of Naval Aviation Enterprise’s (NAE) “Boots-on-the-Deck” program.

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. George Trautman, deputy commandant for aviation, and more than 30 senior members of the Naval Aviation Enterprise and Surface Warfare Enterprises toured Bataan during the day-long conference.

Boots-on-the-Deck enables naval leadership to meet with Sailors and Marines to discuss issues and address concerns in order to improve ship’s processes.

Bataan was modified early last year, during a planned maintenance availability, to house MV-22 Osprey aircraft part and supplies and will be the first ship to embark Ospreys during a deployment.

“The first time you do anything, you’re going to learn on the journey,” said Trautman.

The group toured a variety of spaces that will be impacted by the Osprey embark and talked with personnel from the ship’s crew in order to better understand what they need to succeed.

“I think it really shows us that these leaders care,” said Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class (AW) James Power, who works in Bataan’s hydraulic shop. “I think it will help solve a lot of the problems before we actually have them.”

The leaders wrapped up the day with a discussion on how to assist Bataan and other Wasp-class ships in their Osprey modifications and how to make operational process improvements while looking toward the future.

“I think everyone found this [visit] beneficial,” said Trautman. “We got some positive feedback. This was a very historic opportunity for this ship, the MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) and NAE; and I appreciate Bataan for hosting us.”

For more information on management and strategic planning, read “Moneyball” by Michael Lewis, part of the Navy’s Professional Reading Program.

Bataan is the fifth ship of the Navy’s Wasp-class ships. She was commissioned Sept. 20, 1997, and is the second U.S. Navy warship to bear the name. CVL-29 was an Independence-class light aircraft carrier that was commissioned in November 1943. After serving in both World War II and the Korean conflict, CVL-29 was decommissioned in 1954.

For more news from USS Bataan (LHD 5), visit www.navy.mil/local/lhd5/.

-USN-

NNS081203-18. Yokosuka FFSC Emphasizes Responsible Holiday Spending

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Byron C. Linder, Fleet Public Affairs Center Japan

YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) — Sailors and family members stationed at Fleet Activities Yokosuka took advantage of a series of classes offered by the Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Dec. 1 designed to provide guidance on responsible holiday spending. The courses are available throughout the month of December.

The class series includes topics such as developing a spending plan, holiday spending, savings and investing and credit management.

“The importance of watching your money during the holiday season is to prevent what we call a ‘holiday hangover,’” said FFSC financial educator and command financial specialist coordinator, Michael Spiltener.

“That’s when the bills start showing up in the mail in January, February, and March, and you have to pay them off. So you were happy during the holidays because you were purchasing everything and all of a sudden, all the bills start showing up. You’re going to have to cut back on everyday expenses and things you were normally spending money on to pay off these debts and credit card bills.”

While the holiday season provides an excellent time to put the financial lessons into practice, Spiltener says the center aims to provide year-round education.

“For the Fleet and Family Support Center financial program, we offer seven classes every month. The most common comment we get is ‘I wish I would have come sooner,’” he said. “That’s why we offer the classes every month – so everyone has an opportunity to come to it.”

Spiltener explained the importance of including military spouses and family members in the classes.

“A lot of times the spouses are the ones who control the purse, so it’s great to have them as an audience,” he said. “They can start talking to their spouses on the ships that are away, so they can figure out how much they are going to spend so they don’t get these surprise bills in the mail.”

For more news from Commander Fleet Activities Yokosuka, visit www.navy.mil/local/cfay/.

-USN-

NNS081203-16. USS Arizona Survivors Honor Fallen Shipmates

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael A. Lantron, Commander, Navy Region Hawaii Public Affairs

PEARL HARBOR (NNS) — Six former crew members of the battleship USS Arizona (BB-39), including five survivors of the Dec. 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, visited the USS Arizona Memorial and the Punchbowl National Cemetery Dec. 2.

The Sailors visited the historic sites to honor fallen service members as part of the USS Arizona Reunion Association’s annual meeting, taking place this year on Oahu.

As they arrived at the Arizona Memorial Visitor Center (AMVC), survivors were greeted by an honor cordon of Sailors and Marines and a performance by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band.

“It was great to be honored by that line of Sailors and Marines,” said 88-year-old Lauren Bruner, a fireman third class at the time of the attack. “By doing that, they showed a great deal of respect for us.”

The former Arizona Sailors and members of the reunion association paid tribute to their fellow crew members as they toured the USS Arizona Memorial.

“Many gave their life for the country and what we believe in and to honor them is no greater respect than that,” said Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Matthew Tutt, assigned to Naval Station Pearl Harbor. “The survivors were here when the attack took place and they stepped up out of the devastation to help save Pearl Harbor.”

After departing the Arizona, the visiting Sailors honored their fallen shipmates during a wreath-laying ceremony, including Taps and a 21-gun salute.

“It’s a big honor for me,” said 90-year-old Glenn Lane, a radioman third class at the time of the attack. “I have many friends on the shrine wall who are still aboard the ship and the least I can do for them is to pay my respects.”

“I lost a lot of buddies on that ship,” said Bruner. “The last time I was here was in 1991. I’m 88 now and I have to honor them as much as I can while I can.”

On Dec. 7, the USS Arizona Reunion Association will hold a ceremony at the AMVC followed by a floral tribute and the internment of Arizona Sailor Seaman 1st Class Charles Gueria.

The USS Arizona Reunion Association was organized on Dec. 4, 1976 in Tucson, Arizona by 21 shipmates who served aboard the ship at the time of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

For more news from Commander, Navy Region Hawaii, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnrh/.

-USN-

NNS081203-07. Navy Exchange Jacksonville Lights “Giving Tree”

By Quatermaster 2nd Class Nicole Soto, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) — Naval Air Station Jacksonville (NAS Jax) Navy Exchange (NEX) held its second annual lighting of the “Giving Tree” in the NEX courtyard Nov. 20. The tree offers a way for NEX patrons to help a child, who is a little less fortunate, have something special for Christmas.

Children from the NAS Jax Child Development Center made ornaments to decorate the tree. The back of each handmade ornament has a child’s name, gender, age and clothing size.

During the event, children gathered around the tree to sing Christmas carols and help NAS Jax Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. count down to the lighting of the tree. “This is such a great program and a great opportunity to partner with the NEX and give back to those less fortunate than ourselves,” said Scorby.

“We feel that the base is a big family, and we want the families on the base to know that we support them. The giving tree is a community outreach program for NAS Jax that involves the NEX, USO (United Services Organization) bring Christmas cheer to families that need a little help this holiday season,” said NEX Service Operation Manager Pat Schaaf, organizer of the event.

NEX customers can select an ornament off the tree, register their name at Personalized Services inside the NEX and purchase or make gifts for the child. The gifts need to be turned in to Personalized Services by Dec. 15. The USO will then wrap and deliver the presents.

The USO worked with all tenant commands of NAS Jacksonville through their command master chiefs. They put compiled a list of children from NAS Jacksonville families who they felt could benefit from the giving tree.

Santa Claus even stopped by for the annual tree lighting.

“I think this is a great idea. All boys and girls deserve to have a very merry Christmas,” he said, cheerfully.

For more information on how to help a NAS Jax child this Christmas, visit the Navy Exchange or contact the USO.

For more news from Naval Air Station Jacksonville, visit www.navy.mil/local/nasjax/.

-USN-

NNS081203-02. Current Daily News Update

From the Navy News Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) — Two-minute newscast-

- Harry Smith visits USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71).

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11849

First one-minute newscast-

- Headlines from around the fleet: High Speed Vessel 2 Swift supports Southern Partnership Station; a new Navy Web site offers educational resources to Navy children.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11850

Second one-minute newscast-

- Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander, U.S. Central Command visits USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) on Thanksgiving.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11851

Third one-minute newscast-

- USS Freedom (LCS 1) celebrates Thanksgiving.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11852

Fourth one-minute newscast-

- Mother and daughter brought come together aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) for Thanksgiving.

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11853

Fifth one-minute newscast-

- USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) Sailors say “Go Navy, Beat Army.”

http://www.navy.mil/dnu.asp?id=11854

Defense Media Activity Anacostia produces six Daily News Update (DNU) newscasts: a two-minute newscast and five one-minute newscasts. DNU can be seen throughout the day and evening on the Direct-to-Sailor (DTS) satellite television service available aboard 160 ships of the fleet and via the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. Check your local DTS program schedule for air times. DNU can also be seen throughout the world on the American Forces Radio and Television Service.

-USN-

NNS011210-06. This Day in Naval History – Dec. 03

From the Navy News Service

1775 – Lt. John Paul Jones raises the Grand Union flag on the Continental Navy ship Alfred. It is the first American flag raised over an American Naval vessel.

1940 – President Franklin D. Roosevelt embarks on USS Tuscaloosa (CA 37) to inspect bases acquired from Great Britain under the Destroyer-for-Bases agreement.

1983 – Two F-14s flying over Lebanon were fired upon by Syrian antiaircraft artillery.

For more information about Naval history, visit the Naval Historical Center Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

-USN-

Navy News Service is the official news wire service of the U.S. Navy, containing stories recently posted to the Navy Web site at www.navy.mil. It is a product of the Defense Media Activity – Anacostia, 2713 Mitscher Rd. SW, Anacostia Annex, D.C., 20373-5819. Reprints should be credited to the Navy News Service (NNS).

For the latest in Navy news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.

For all Navy-related questions, review the FAQs posted at www.navy.mil or visit the Naval Historical Center’s Web site at www.history.navy.mil.

Media queries should be directed to the Navy News Desk at (703) 697-5342.

-USN-

Very Respectfully,

Marie Tillery

Navy.mil News Editor

Defense Media Activity – Anacostia

Tags: Corpsman.com, Navy News, USN

Navy News for Dec 3rd 2008

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