Nov. 21, 2013
Vol. 2 Issue 145
DAILY DIGEST
WHERE THE
HEART IS
A Sailor keeps in touch with family and tradition Story by MCSN Eric M. Butler
A
viation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Kristina M. Spalding, from Seattle, stands on the flight deck, weight board in hand. The grime of the workday covers her green uniform. Her face is hidden behind tinted goggles and a green bandana. She is the assistant catapult captain of catapult 4. However, this outstanding mother of two is also an artist who has drawn some of her
own tattoos and a proud nativeAmerican member of the Raven/ Beaver Clan of the Tlingit tribe. Spalding said her tribe primarily exists in Alaska and Canada and is made up of the Raven/Beaver and Eagle clans. While she said she did not grow up immersed in tribal culture, she began pursuing it in high school when she developed a relationship with her grandmother. Her native identity has since
helped play a role in her professional attitude. She said her mother and grandmother, representing the Native-American side of her family, have played the biggest role in shaping her outlook on life. “My ma and my grandma both taught me that instead of running to people for help, we need to try and see if we can take care of stuff on our own,” said Spalding. “So, pretty much be independent. Be proud of where Continued on page 3