June 9, 2011
Nimitz News
June 9, 2011
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Vol. 36, No. 23
SRB program changes By MC3 Robert Winn
Midway survivor speaks to Sailors Retired Cmdr. Harry Ferrier, a Battle of Midway survivor, speaks to nearly 200 officers and chief petty officers assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during their Battle of Midway Remembrance Dinner. The dinner commemorated the sacrifice of all who served at the Battle of Midway, which was the turning point in the Pacific campaign during World War II. Photo by MCSA Alexander A. Ventura II. See related story Page 6
June 17, marks the date new changes to the Selective Reenlistment Bonuses (SRB) program go into effect. According to NAVADMIN 166/11 , SRBs have been adjusted for the new fiscal year. Under the new changes some rates will no longer receive SRBs, or the amount each receives has been reduced, while a few have been increased. The new changes for those receiving an increased SRB went into effect on May 17, while the changes for those whose rates have a decreased number of SRBs
will go into effect on June 17. SRB eligibility is based on certain rates and which NECs Sailors have, and the amount given is based on how long Sailors have been enlisted. The years of service are grouped into zones. Zone A covers all Sailors from zero through six years of service, Zone B covers Sailors from six years and one day through 10 years and Zone C covers Sailors from 10 years through 14 years of service. Cryptologic Technician Interpreters (CTI) are losing all SRBs for Zone B and will take significant decreases for Zone A. Explosive Ordnance Disposal See SRB, page 7
Physical readiness requires year-round upkeep By MCSA Alexander Ventura II Sailors who exceed Physical Readiness Test (PRT) standards don’t always pass the Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA). The PFA is comprised of the PRT and body circumference analysis (BCA). BCA is determined for males by subtracting the circumference of their neck from their waist in inches to gain a numerical value. For females, neck circumference is subtracted from waist and hip circumference. USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Sailors who exceed their allowable body-fat are deemed “overweight.” They are screened by medical personnel, and then entered into a mandatory
weight-loss program. While in overweight status, Sailors are ineligible for promotion, volunteer assignments and schools, and are not eligible to reenlist. “More than 130 Sailors failed the PFA,” said Chief Aviation Electronics Technician (AW) Brett E. Baldwin, command fitness leader. “More than 80 of the PFA failures were from failing the BCA.” With the spring PRT completed, Sailors should not slack off or stop exercising and continue to be active, added Baldwin. Being physically in shape is a year-round job. For the fall PRT, Sailors should focus more on making healthy lifestyle choices in order to reduce body fat.
Naval Base Bremerton Concourse west Gym offers a class Mission Nutrition taught by Fitness Specialist Therese Deal. Individuals interested in taking the class must sign up at the gym. The course teach Sailors to incorporate weight training large muscle groups such as legs with cardiovascular exercises to increase fat loss and help stay leaner. Weight-lifting increases muscle mass, metabolism, balance and strength, said Deal. The more muscle an individual has, the more calories his or her body needs to function, increasing their metabolism and their body’s calorie-burning capabilities, said Deal. See Trimming Fat, page 7
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Nimitz News
June 9, 2011
Nimitz Sailors ‘Race for a Cure’ By MC2 (SW/AW) Amara R. Timberlake
Commanding Officer CAPT Paul Monger Executive Officer CAPT John Ring Command Master Chief CMDCM William Lloyd-Owen Public Affairs Officer LTJG Jason Scarborough Media LCPO MCCM Jon McMillan Media Production Chief MCC Mike Jones Layout/ Designer MC3 Robert Winn
Nimitz Sailors raised over $1,000 to support Susan G. Komen For a Cure, an organization that funds research in support of the fight against breast cancer June 5. Twenty five Sailors from USS Nimitz (CVN 68) made up a team that collected money for a 5K walk/ run in downtown Seattle, Sunday. “Race for the Cure is an event that happens all over the country,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class (SW/AW) Jasmin Shackleford, team leader. “And all of the money goes toward breast cancer research.” “I raised money for the race through my Facebook page,” said Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd class (AW/SW) Martha Moreno. “There’s an [application] that posts information directly to your page for people to see and they can donate that way. It also shows a tracker of the money you’ve raised.” Although the event is designed to raise money for breast cancer research, Moreno said it means much more than that.
“It’s about awareness,” said Moreno, whose mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. “Everyone who was there has been affected by breast cancer in some way,” said Shackleford. “Whether they know someone or have a family member, it’s something that touches everyone.” The team got up bright and early Sunday to make it to Seattle for the event that began at 8 a.m. “The hardest part was waking up at 4 a.m. to catch the ferry,” said Moreno. “The walk was pretty easy and we had a lot of fun doing it.” In addition to race, there was a memorial for participants to place photos of loved ones who died from cancer as well as an assembly to celebrate survivors. “Some people there were [chemotherapy] patients,” said Moreno. “You could tell because they didn’t have any hair. It was pretty moving.” Moreno and Shackleford are also planning to participate in the Susan G. Komen Three-Day, a 60 mile walk in September that gives participants the chance to raise millions to support the fight against breast cancer. They are looking for team members to walk as well as donations.
Editor MC2 Nathan Gomez Media Dept MC2 C.J. Amdahl MC2 James Mitchell MC2 Amara Timberlake MC2 Adam Wolfe MC3 Ian Cotter MC3 Matthew Patton MC3 Mark Sashegyi MC3 Thomas Siniff MC3 Glenn Slaughter MC3 Nichelle Whitfield MC3 Devin Wray MCSN Ashley Berumen MCSN Andrew Jandik MCSA Renee Candelario MCSA Alexander Ventura II
“Nimitz News” is an authorized publication for the members of the military services and their families. Its content does not necessarily reflect the official views of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy, or the Marine Corps and does not imply endorsement thereby.
USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Sailor participates in Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in honor of her aunt lost the fight against breast cancer. U.S. Navy photo.
June 9, 2011
Nimitz News
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Chaplain’s Corner
USS Nimitz (CVN 68) undergoes a heavy overhaul during it’s Docking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA). The ship has been dry docked for nearly seven months and has seen changes to the majority of its spaces. Photo by MC3 Glenn Slaughter.
Nimitz pushes through DPIA By MCSA Renee L. Candelario Since USS Nimitz (CVN 68) arrived in Bremerton for its Docking Planned Incremental Availability (DPIA) period the ship’s maintenance is moving closer to completion. One of the big upgrades is the installation of two sponsons that hold a close in weapons system. The sponson houses everything; the local control, equipment room and magazine room. Aside from the sponsons, a number of other maintenance and upgrades have been finished on the ship but there is still more work to be done. “There is currently a lot of work in progress and a lot left to do especially in combat systems and engineering,” said Cmdr. Greg Gaskey, deputy project superintendent of Puget Sound Naval Shipyard Intermediate Maintenance Facility. “Once this work is done the crew will receive training after the systems are restored. This training is the reason DPIA lasts until the end of the year.” In the upcoming months Nimitz will continue to prepare for its next process which is undocking. “The next major event the ship will undergo will be the undocking process, scheduled to take place later,” said Gaskey. “We will move Nimitz out of the shipyard to Pier Delta outside of the [Controlled Industrial Area]. There is a number of tests that need to be completed by both the ship and shipyard to make sure we have restored the integrity of the ship below the waterline, basically to make sure nothing leaks.” Gaskey praised the efforts of the crew for their hard work during DPIA. “The crew has been tremendously supportive of the shipyard maintenance’s system, planning, and scheduling,” said Gaskey. “The crew has continued to do a great job at making sure the job gets completed on time.” Until undocking, the PSNS workers will reinstall the shafts, propellers and rudders that belong on the ship and continue to do other scheduled maintenance.
“Once this work is done the crew will receive training after the systems are restored. This training is the reason DPIA lasts until the end of the year.” -Cmdr. Greg Gaskey Deputy Project Superintendent
May 21, 2011, the day that passed by us with a fizzle. The end of the world did not come and the rapture did not occur. According to the Holy Bible, the second coming of Jesus Christ includes two aspects. Initially, He will appear in the clouds and rapture the saints. The dead rising first followed by those who are living. At His revelation, He will physically return to the earth to establish His kingdom. The rapture does not mark the end of the world. It is followed by the judgment seat of Christ and marks the beginning of a seven year tribulation period. Armageddon occurs at the end of the tribulation when all the armies of the world gather together against Israel. Jesus Christ will intervene and descend onto the Mt. of Olives to win the battle and begin His millennial reign. His return to earth is known as the revelation. Thereafter, Satan and his cohorts will be cast into the Lake of Fire, and all of mankind will gather before the Great White Throne of Judgment. Scripture teaches that the return of Christ is imminent. “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which art in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father,” Mark 13:32. To learn more about the teachings of the book of Revelation and Bible prophecy, join me starting 07/07/11 at 1100 in the barge chapel (the only date that I can predict). If you would like to attend, please sign up in the barge library so we can have enough materials ready.
Chaplain Eric J Melvin
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Nimitz News
June 9, 2011
Beach-front liberty
9 minutes away
Photos and Story by MCSA Renee L. Candelario My growling stomach woke me up early the other morning. As I walked home from duty I was debating in my head whether I should satisfy my hunger or go to sleep. My hunger eventually won so, I convinced my roommate that she was hungry so I could have an excuse to eat at the “Hi Lo’s 15th Street Café” without going by myself. This has become “the spot” since we came to Bremerton. I could smell fresh citrus, sizzling bacon and roasted coffee before I opened the door. We walked in and greeted by the waitress with a friendly hello and immediately seated close to a couple of strangers. It’s a very 1960’s hippie-friendly place with a Scooby-Doo Volkswagen Bus parked outside. The walls are covered in vinyls from Jimi Hendrix to Janis Joplin, old-school Thermos mugs, and tin lunch boxes. I was in the middle of eating my waffle topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream when one of the strangers sparked up
a conversation about a scenic beach around the area. I thought to myself “Washington has a beach? Yea right, lady.” She proceeded to encourage me to go check it out and said it was off of Washington State Route 3 South at the Newberry Hill Road exit. “Just follow the brown signs,” she said. So I did, and nine miles later I’m driving through a small town called Seabeck. It was filled with weathered cottages and trees near the waterfront, where every so often I could see glimpses of the ocean through the branches. I arrived at Scenic Beach State Park, and this place literally took my breath away. Dirt trails winded me through small creeks and fruit trees eventually leading me to the beach where barnacle-covered pebbles and empty oyster shells covered the floor leading to a turquoise blue ocean. Unfortunately for me, I wore sandals so it hurt to walk on the stone-covered beach so I decided to see what else the park had to offer. Sun spotlighted through the tree leaves illuminating the park as I walked around
June 9, 2011
Nimitz News
Page 5 A view through the trees at the beach at Scenic Beach State Park in Seabeak. The park provides campgrounds, barbaques and a playground perfect for a great day outside not to mention a great scenery.
and took photographs. From picnic tables, fire pits, and camp grounds to a volleyball court, outdoor event hut, and playground this park provided the ultimate recipe for outdoor fun. Resources to have a good time are unlimited at this park. From water sports like kayaking and swimming to throwing a BBQ and camping with friends and family, I’m definitely planning a trip soon when the weather stays consistently sunny. It’s close, free, and a must-see spot to enjoy before leaving Kitsap County.
Welcome signs greet you at the park’s entrance and detail the area’s local history as well as explain its current marine inhabitants.
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Nimitz News
June 9, 2011
Nimitz hosts Midway Remembrance Dinner By MCSN Ashley Berumen
Officers and chiefs from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) gathered June 2 to remember the sacrifice of all who served at the Battle of Midway, the turning point in the Pacific campaign during World War II. Battle of Midway survivor retired Cmdr. Harry Ferrier was the evening’s guest of honor. “I don’t feel like a hero,” Ferrier said to the nearly 200 guests in attendance. “I’m just a survivor. The heroes are the men who died.” Of the 48 service members who were sent into battle surrounding the tiny atoll during the first wave of attacks, Ferrier was one of just three to return. “It’s important to remember one of the most epic battles; especially following Memorial Day,” Capt. Paul O. Monger, Nimitz’ Commanding Officer. “It helped us realize the importance of carrier aviation as a part of Naval warfare.” USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Commanding Officer Capt. Paul O. Monger (far left), Command Master Chief Ferrier was just 16 years old when he joined the William Lloyd-Owen (far right), retired Cmdr. Harry Ferrier (center) and six frocked senior chiefs Navy and just one year later, he was attached to pose for a photo during a Battle of Midway remembrance dinner at Olympic Lodge June 2. Photo Torpedo Squadron 8 as a Radioman Third Class by MCSA Alexander Ventura II. on his way to Midway Island to combat Japanese lives so that we can be doing what we’re doing now.” forces. Ferrier, a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam, said it “There are terrible losses that we suffer in battles like these,” was not until years later that he learned about naval intelligence explained Ferrier. “I always think of my shipmates who gave their breaking the code of the attack.
“I felt very honored to have a survivor-participant in the Battle of Midway in attendance tonight,” said Chief Religious Program Specialist James Gibson, who attended the rememberance dinner. “It’s very important to remember our fallen comrades. A lot of Americans have died so that we can be free. We need to keep their spirit alive from generation to generation.” Monger presented Ferrier with a Nimitz ball cap and a plaque at the ceremony’s conclusion. Ferrier then made himself available for photos and questions.
“I don’t feel like a hero... I’m just a survivor. The heroes are the men who died.” -Harry Ferrier Battle of Midway survivor
Midway survivor retired Cmdr. Harry Ferrier speaks during a memorial dinner hosted by USS Nimitz (CVN 68) officers and cheifs. the dinner marked the 69th anniversary of the Battle of Midway. Photo by MCSA Alexander Ventura II.
June 9, 2011
Nimitz News
Nimitz Sailor Named COMPACFLT Air Traffic Controller of the Year Story by MC2 (SW/ AW) Amara R. Timberlake Air Traffic Controller 1st Class (AW/SW) Brian J. Gardiner, assigned to the Operations Department on board USS Nimitz (CVN 68) was named Commander Pacific Fleet’s Air Traffic Controller of the Year. “This means Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Brian Gardiner reacts to hearing news that he’s been named air traffic controller for Pacific Fleet. Photo by more to me than any MC2 Amara Timberlake. other award,” said Gardiner. “It’s an every watch station in the space that honor to get any award at all but to be communicates with aircraft in the air and recognized for the work I do in my rate monitors fuel levels. means so much to me because I put a lot “I’ve had the opportunity to train into trying to be the best at what I do.” under him,” said Air Traffic Controller Gardiner serves as the carrier air traffic 2nd Class (AW) Anthony Schlund. control center (CATCC) supervisor. In “He sort of this position he is qualified to operate holds the team See Air Traffic, Page 8
SRB:
New year leads to new bonuses for Sailors fleetwide
(EOD) are taking strong decreases for each zone: A, B and C. Tier Three Hospital Corpsman (HM), with NECs 8401, 8410, 8752; Tier Three Sonar Technician Surface (STG); Information Systems Technician (IT); Interior Communications Electrician (IC) and Fire Controlman (FC) will no longer receive SRBs. “SRBs are based on manning,” said Navy Counselor 1st Class Andrew Burk. “They adjust the amount and who receives it in order to reduce or maintain the number of people in each rate or members with certain Navy Enlisted Classifications (NEC).” “The big thing to know is that if you are approved before June 17, you’ll still receive your original SRB,” said Burk. “If your approval date or reenlistment date is after, then you will receive the adjusted amount instead.” “This really won’t impact those who really want to stay in the Navy,” said Burk. “Those who are on the fence may be swayed slightly, but most people will have other deciding factors. If you intend to stay then the SRB is more of a perk. ” Intelligence Specialist 2nd Class Kevin Key agrees. “The SRB isn’t really what’s helping me decide right now. I’m more concerned about what C-Schools I could get.” “It’s definitely been a topic of conversation around the shop,” Key continued. “People have voiced their discontent with the new policy because some of them are up for reenlistment, as soon as July, won’t be able to receive the higher bonus before the new changes go into effect.” For more information on the changes, reference NAVADMIN 166/11 or speak with your departmental Career Counselor.
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Trimming fat Continued from Page 1
Deal recommends doing weight lifting exercises such as squats and dead lifts because it targets the quadriceps which is the largest muscles in the legs. Squats and dead lifts can also increase leg and core strength and make everyday chores which require lifting easier and safer, said Deal. “A stronger core will help Sailors be more efficient at their job and less vulnerable to injury,” said Deal. Deal suggests eating whole grain foods, lean meats, low fat dairy, fruits and vegetables to stay healthy. “Substituting foods like whole grain breads for white bread will give you more nutritional value such as fiber and help you lose weight,” said Deal. Deal suggests staying away from fad diets because they give only temporary results and are usually expensive. “Fad diets don’t work,” said Deal. “Fad diets can’t be maintained over a life time; where if you eat healthy and exercise, it will help you keep your weight down.” Sailors deciding to stay in the Navy need to ensure they pass their PFA to be able to serve said Baldwin. With the Navy downsizing, PFA failures could reflect poorly during a Sailor’s Enlisted Retention Board, which can hinder them from reenlisting. “PRT scores are critical to the Navy,” said Baldwin. “If you’re not in shape the Navy doesn’t need you. The Navy can function with more people readily available out there to fill your shoes if you’re not willing to comply with Navy instruction. The goal of the instruction is not to get rid of people but to have a fit workforce and fit fighting team to support the Navy’s needs.” For more information about PRT standards and how to get ready for the PRT visit www.navy-prt.com.
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Nimitz News
June 9, 2011
Air Traffic: Stepping up pays off Continued from Page 7
together by leading by example.” Gardiner has a reputation for being an expert in his rate but his efforts during one underway were noticed outside of his department. “There was a situation where we lost all [use of] radars and we only had three frequencies for communication with about 18 aircraft airborne,” said Gardiner. “I worked the room with no radar and arranged for all of the aircraft to be refueled by tankers until we could get them safely back on deck, which we did.”
While Gardiner is humble about his award he gives one explanation for his success. “I truly love being an air traffic controller,” said Gardiner. Gardiner has been on board since 2008 and plans to stay until 2012. He hopes to achieve one more goal before he leaves for good. “I want to be here to qualify our team,” said Gardiner. “I want to see CATCC up and operational so I know how it will operate when I’m gone.”
This WEek’s MWR EVENTS Wednesday: * Step, West Concourse Gym, 1645, FREE * Premier Movie Night, Liberty Center, 1900, FREE Thursday: * Steak and Brew on the Patio at Sam Adams, 1700-2000 * Sizzlin’ Summer Barr acks Bash, Liberty Center, 1630-1900 * Yoga, West Concourse Gym, 1645, FREE * Spin, West Concourse Gym, 1800, FREE * Seattle Storm (WNBA) vs. Minnesota, Key Arena * Movie Trivia Night, Liberty Center, 1800 Friday: * Portland Rose Festival/Fleet Week Golf Tournament, 0700-1530, $50 entry fee, call 503.314.8700 to sign up * Family Movie Night, 1800, Bremerton Recreation Center * Rock-n-Bowl, 1800-Midnight, Bremerton Recreation Center Saturday: * Whitewater R afting Trip, 0700-2000, sign up at Bremerton ITT (located at the Recreation Center) * Pioneer Farm Tour & NW Trek, $52, includes a guide, farm admission, and tr ansportation * Movie Night at the Barr acks, 2030 * Spin, West Concourse Gym, 0930, FREE * Zumba, West Concourse Gym, 1000, FREE * Penn Cove K ayak Trip, 0900-1500, sign up at Bremerton ITT (located at the Recreation Center) * Seattle Sounders vs. Vancouver Whitecaps, 1900, Qwest Field
* Portland Rose Festival/Fleet Week BBQ, 1300-2000, at the American Legion Post (1830 SE 122nd Avenue), FREE for Active Duty Sunday: * A Day at the Beach Ocean Shores Trip, $5, sign up at the Liberty Center, Par ades, Food, and Fun * Portland Rose Festival/Fleet Week Softball Tournament, 0800-1900, call 503.306.2874 for register your team * NASCAR Weekend at Liberty Center, 1900 Monday: * Weekly Game Night, 1800, Bremerton Recreation Center * Sid Sterling 24-Hour Softball Tournament (Registr ation Deadline!!) Tuesday: * Billiards Tournament, 1800, Bremerton Recreation Center * Yoga, West Concourse Gym, 1645, FREE * Spin, West Concourse Gym, 1800, FREE * Zumba, West Concourse Gym, FREE Wednesday: * Premier Movie Night, Liberty Center, 1900, FREE * Step, West Concourse Gym, 1645, FREE * FREE Bowling, Bremerton Recreation Center, 1800 Tickets on Sale NOW! * AMC: $7 * K aty Perry Suite Seats $90 (July 20th) 1930 * Seattle Sounders vs. Manchester United $74 (July 20th) 1900