Nimitz News May 3, 2012
Vol. 37, No. 14
37 Thirty seven years of tradition..
May 3, 2012
The Chaplain's Corner
OUT OFTHE GRAY by Fr. Andrew Colvin, LT, CHC, USN
Commanding Officer CAPT Jeffrey S. Ruth Executive Officer CAPT Buzz Donnelly Command Master Chief CMDCM Teri M. McIntyre Public Affairs Officer LCDR Karin Burzynski Media Division Officer LTJG Jason Scarborough Media LCPO MCC Mike Jones Media Production Chief MCC Mike Jones Editor MC3 Ashley Berumen Lead Designer MCSA Ryan Mayes Media Dept MC2 Michael Cole MC2 James Mitchell MC2 Vladimir Potapenko MC2 Mark Sashegyi MC2 Adam Wolfe MC3 Ashley Berumen MC3 Jacquelyn Childs MC3 Ian Cotter MC3 Andrew Jandik MC3 Shayne Johnson MC3 Jacob Milner MC3 Glenn Slaughter MC3 Thomas Siniff MC3 Nichelle Whitfield MC3 Devin Wray MCSN Christopher Bartlett MCSN Renee Candelario MCSN Alexander Ventura II MCSN Jessica Lewis MCSA Vanessa David MCSA Ryan Mayes Nimitz News accepts submissions in writing. All submissions must be in by Friday, COB. Submissions are subject to review and screening. “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.
Imagine the most thrilling event of your life. Now, put it into Haiku: The speed, the great noise! I feel pure adrenaline! Over way too soon. While Haiku is a beautiful poetic form, it’s not a stunning way to express exhilaration, is it? How about a limerick? I once climbed the sky for a thrill And walked through the hatch with a chill I dropped from the sky “What a rush!” Said I And landed a better man still! Regrettably, our anticipation of excitement and satisfaction is not always fulfilled. These poems don’t even compare to the actual thrill of sky diving. Like a poem that falls flat, sometimes the crude realities of the workplace can be a downer. Perhaps your expectations of Navy life have also fallen flat. Many of you have seen the parodies on the “Accelerate Your Life” ads on U-Tube. Instead of the exciting images of SEALS in speed boats or F-18 jet fighters blasting off a carrier flight deck, the parodies show Sailors mopping the deck and wiping down the bulkhead in the head. Many people seek a life of excitement and fun. While it really can be found in Navy training and extracurricular activities, most of our responsibilities, however, do not include thrilling moments. This is true for almost anything you do in life, whether you are a NASA astronaut or a martial arts fighter. To achieve the exciting moments, you must develop a sense of discipline and patience. If you want to do something fun, plan for it. Then, execute your plan. In the meantime, what can we do to make everyday life more bearable? The answer really depends on you. Those who find happiness do not worry about boredom or excitement. Happiness resides in the heart. I have discovered a few key secrets to peace and joy. For starters, I am thankful every day. A good follow-up to an attitude of gratitude is helping others. And to really get things going, I seek the good in all my experiences, no matter how mundane or difficult. Really, I rely on God to help me find true peace and joy. I believe God resides in the heart of each person, waiting to be discovered. Navy gray can seem dreary at times. But I promise you, we can always gain the most from life, even out of the gray!
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In celebration of a 37 year history, Nimitz News is proud to deliver a commemorative edition highlighting the ship’s historical beginnings.
On the cover: Photo of Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Nimitz christening ceremony at Shipway 11, Newport News May 13, 1972.
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Nimitz father re-enlists forward deployed son Story and photo by MC3 Ian A. Cotter
Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 3rd Class Ivan S. Bituin stood on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) before his father, Chief Warrant Officer Alfonso G. Bituin, raised his right hand and swore the oath of enlistment. “I’m proud to serve with my dad,” said Ivan. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’d re-enlist for 16 years if I could.” Ivan, currently stationed at Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) Bahrain, took leave and flew halfway around the world to San Diego to re-enlist on the ship where his father is currently stationed. “My son was only eight months old when I joined the Navy,” said Alfonso. “That was February 11, 1991.” Since then his son moved with him and grew up with a father who serves in the Navy. “I was a military brat,” said Ivan. “I started thinking about joining when I was in high school. I wanted to serve, and my dad was a real inspiration.”
Ivan joined the Navy fresh out of high Strike Squadron 77 here in San Diego. “I school in January of 2009 at the age of 18. do want to make chief someday,” he said. “I was kind of scared because of “Perhaps I will even surpass my dad.” underage drinking and DUIs,” said Alfonso. “But my son is true to himself, and after three years, he can be by himself.” “It cost a lot of money to fly out here on leave, but having my dad re-enlist me was worth it,” said Ivan. “Growing up I remember thinking ‘I want to be like my dad,’ and now my younger brothers say ‘I want to be like my brother”. “It’s a great pleasure to (have) a son that serves with me,” said Alfonso. “I could not ask for more. I hope he will someday make chief and perhaps be commissioned as an officer. I’d also like grandchildren.” Ivan plans on finishing his year-long tour in Bahrain and Maintenance Administrationman 3rd Class Ivan S. Bituin continuing his fledgling Naval Aviation (Right) gets sworn in by his father Chief Warrant Officer Alfonso G. career with Helicopter Maritime Bituin (Left), May 2.
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May 3, 2012
Ches Chal ter's leng Acce e : pted Story and photos by MCSA Vanessa David Beads of sweat hit the ground, accompanied by the methodical thud of the kettle bell hitting the deck like clockwork. This consistent tempo denoted the fact that those who followed the pattern left their competition in the dust. Eight teams, consisting of four members have been competing in various competitions as part of the ongoing Chester’s Challenge. Team Unstoppable dominated last week despite missing a member for the first of the two competitions. Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Cedric Davis, Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Joshua Garnes and Airman Robert Fales
claimed victory in the kettle bell snatch competition with 192 points. They were followed closely by Buds Duds with a score of 172. With their fourth teammate, Lt. Jeffrey Tomaszewski, back in the race on April 25, Team Unstoppable killed the ammo can lift competition with a score of 766. That score increased Team Unstoppable’s lead in the overall challenge. Eight teams competed ardently, utilizing brute strength and sheer will power to push through as many snatches as possible under the intense sunlight wandering in from the open hangar bay. The heat of the afternoon grew
The BUDS Duds and the Gerbils go head-to-head in a Tug of War competition.
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as the audience that gathered quickly and remained for the duration of each competition to cheer on co-workers and down-talk their competitors. “It turned out exactly as we planned,” said Melyssa Patterson, Nimitz’ Fitboss. “We wanted a crowd to build up and cheer them on, and that’s exactly why we chose that location.” All of the feedback from the bystanders was significant in their victory, said Garnes. “You’ve got to let the hate motivate, and that’s exactly what we did,” he said. “Everyone who was pushing for us only reinforced the positive push in the direction for us to do better. I encourage
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Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) 3rd Class Eric King competes in the Kettle Bell Snatch competition
all comments.” For the ammo can lift, each teammate had two minutes to fully extend a 35-pound plate above their head and lower it below the chin as many times as possible. It’s a lot tougher than it looks, and if one doesn’t pace himself it only gets tougher, said Davis, captain of Team Unstoppable, after rushing through his first minute decreased his strength for the second half. “We’ve already proven that when circumstances seem unfavorable, we can come out on top,” he said. “It gave us more self-confidence. We went out there, did our best and came through.” Although their resolve was strong, Team Unstoppable fell short during the tug of war challenge, and Buds Duds trumped the competition for the first time since they won the half-marathon relay on April 18. Even with this small setback, Team Unstoppable still holds the lead. “We are probably one of the lightest teams,” said Garnes. “Our average weight is around 170 pounds, so we weren’t expecting to win. As for Buds Duds, they appear to be about 200 pounds apiece. They’re strong and heavy, and they did really well, but the challenge isn’t over yet. I’m the best on the boat, and we’re ready for the next round.” The squat competition will take place today at 11:00 a.m. on the pier.
Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Joshua Garnes competes in the Ammo Can Lift competition as part of Chester’s Challenge
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May 3, 2012
Shattering the silence S
Nimitz Sailors walk the pier in support of "Nimitz' Walk to Shatter the Silence of Violence". (U.S. Navy photos by MCSA Vanessa David)
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ailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN68) participated in a command wide pier walk April 28, in support of sexual assault awareness month (SAAM). The “Nimitz Walk to Shatter the Silence of Violence” took place on the pier at Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado, Calif., and reflects Nimitz’ stance against any form of sexual violence. “The idea started at a summit I attended at Naval Station Everett,” said Lt. Elicia Hughes, Nimitz’ victim advocate. “They were planning to do a walk and we were going to support that with a command walk. Given that we were getting underway we had a local walk here. It’s the first one that we’ve had. What a lot of people don’t realize is that sexual assault happens, and in that moment, everyone should turn to that Sailor to make sure that they’re safe. There are so many survivors that don’t report incidents and we just really want to show that this command is here to support you.” Many Sailors participated in the walk including some that have been involved in sexual assault situations before and intervened. “I came to sign up for the SAAM walk because I know sexual assault is wrong,” said Fire Controlman 3rd Class Perry Kendrick, a participant in the walk. “I’ve been in situations where I’ve had to step in and diffuse a
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of violence situation, never in a confrontational way, but in a way that put an end to the situation. This walk is a way for me and others to get out and show we are aware that sexual assault happens and the command is here for you.” Many cases of sexual assault go unreported due to the stigma associated with an incident. Nimitz advocates are providing alternate means of reporting incidents so that information remains confidential. “It’s important for people to understand that sexual assault happens all around us and it’s important for them to get help for that,” said Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Michelle Newby, sexual assault prevention and response (SAPR) head of training and point of contact. “It’s very traumatizing for the victim and for the command. It’s also important for people to understand the difference between restricted and unrestricted reporting. A lot of people don’t come forward to report an incident because they’re afraid it’s going to go up their chain of command. They already feel humiliated and they don’t want their name out there because they feel guilty, or they feel that people are looking at them strange. We have the restricted reporting option so that they can come forward and get the help they need without everyone knowing about it. They have to come to an advocate, chaplain or medical to use restricted reporting.” Victim advocates aboard Nimitz are trained and specialize in supporting victims of sexual assault. Their services are
Story by MC3 Jacob Milner
available at any time for those in need of their help. “Your command supports you,” said Hughes. “There are advocates here and we want to make sure that Sailors are aware of the SAPR team and that we are here for you. All you have to do is let us know you have a need.” The walk and other events aboard Nimitz have been very successful through this month in both raising awareness and training. “This month has been so successful,” said Hughes. “We’ve been offering forums and training which people have been showing up to and asking questions about. Typically commands have a sexual assault portion in their indoctrination classes and if someone doesn’t come to an advocate and you’re not part of the program, there are many gaps in the process. This month has enabled us to flood the command with information, and from the questions that are asked and the conversations that I’ve had, I believe that everyone’s level of knowledge is outstanding. Nimitz will be there. Our advocates are trained so that no matter what is going on, if you come up to us and are in need, we will get you what you need. “ For more information or to reach a victim advocate visit http://www.safehelpline.org. There is also a 24 hour victim advocate helpline which can be reached at (425) 604-3712 for Everett, Wash. or (360)990-6219 for the sexual assault prevention and response Nimitz hotline.
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May 3, 2012
An Original
Nimitz Sailor Story and photo by MCSN Chris Bartlett
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t had been more than 35 years since former Engineman 3rd Class Bruce Andrews last stepped aboard the mighty USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Flying from Michigan to San Diego to see his newly born grandson, the number 68 caught his eye while driving down Interstate-5. As if there was some magnetic pull that brought him, Mr. Andrews arrived at the front gate of the pier where I met him to give him a tour of a ship he already knew better than me. As we crossed the brow and stepped onto the quarterdeck, I could see Mr. Andrews’ facial expression change as his eyes widened. I’m not sure what was running through his mind, but I could only imagine. He was assigned to Nimitz, March of 1973; more than a year before it even sailed while the ship was in dry dock and completed his enlistment June of 1976. “The crew was delivered to the ship by boats where you had to stay in these really long lines and take the boat into the docks,” said Andrews. “Part of my job was to keep the boats running”. We made our way to the flight deck and he told me a story of when President Gerald Ford commissioned Nimitz on May 3, 1975 at Naval Station Norfolk. “I was standing on the flight deck when President Ford landed in a helicopter,” said Andrews. “The President was standing on the starboard side elevator where his podium was facing the people on the pier. They had a gun salute on the deck. Nobody was told they were going to fire the salute cannon so when they hit, all the security people jumped on the president and we all went down on the deck.” As the tour progressed, the old sea stories surfaced in vivid detail. Andrews had no shortage of them and each step into a different compartment brought the memories back full force. In the pilot house, I offered him a chance to sit in the captain’s
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chair. He reminisced about w River. “I would spend hour Andrews. Nimitz’ first operation Atlantic which included never had been anywhe was the first of its kind. Finally, he asked i I personally had no years that have pas three and four we I would ever com a conversation w some differenc As we cro the flag and resonates. H my pleasu me a tour Thirt engine the m cont mar his
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when he used to sit there at night watching the traffic on James rs wondering what it would be like when the jets took off,” says
nal underway and deployment brought Andrews to the North d parts of England, Scotland and Germany. “For someone who ere, it was great,” said Andrews. “We sailed our butts off because it . They wanted to show it off and they did.” if he may visit his old work space down in the aft diesel room. idea how to get there so I let him lead the way. Even with the st, he located the space like it was yesterday. Giant diesel engines elcomed him back to his old stomping grounds. “I never thought me back here,” said Andrews. It was interesting to see him spark up with the other enginemen, as if he was back on the job. He noticed ces, but for the most part said things are still the same. ossed the quarterdeck and headed towards the brow, I saluted could sense his reaction was to do the same—the tradition still He shook my hand, thanked me for the tour and I told him it was ure. I later realized I wasn’t the tour guide. He was the one giving r. ty-nine years have passed. Bruce Andrews has changed. From eman to civilian, from father to grandfather, Andrews grew into man he is today. As the country developed around him, so did the tent of his character, and as time passes he continues to leave his rk upon his own personal history, American naval history and the story of Nimitz.
Former Engineman 3rd Class Bruce Andrews revisits the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) after nearly 35 years.
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May 3, 2012
Nimitz celebrates 37 years of service From USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Public Affairs
T
he crew of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) paused to celebrate the 37th anniversary of the ship’s commissioning with an all hands picnic May 3. The ship’s MWR and Supply Department hosted the event, with volunteer assistance from Nimitz’ Chief Petty Officers and Petty Officer 1st Classes, and members of the Nimitz Junior Enlisted Association. Nimitz Commanding Officer Capt. Jeffrey Ruth called on the crew to reflect on the historical role Nimitz has played in the ship’s nearly four decades of service. “In 1975 a new class of aircraft carrier entered the fleet,” he said. “Thirty-seven years later this ship and her entire crew proudly continue to uphold the traditions of teamwork and professionalism that make this ship the first and finest in its class.” In that time, the ship completed 14 deployments. Nimitz most recently departed its homeport of Everett, Wash. and arrived to Naval Station North Island, San Diego to embark
elements of Carrier Air Wing ELEVEN as the ship prepares to complete various certifications and qualifications following its Docking Planned Incremental Availability. Nimitz’ (CVAN 68) keel was laid on June 22, 1968, at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company in Newport News, Va. The Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Nimitz was christened and launched from Shipway 11, Newport News May 13, 1972. On March 1, 1975 PCU Nimitz got underway for the first time to conduct Builder's sea trials. The ship was delivered to the U.S. Navy on April 11 and arrived at its homeport of Norfolk, Va. April 12. May 3, Nimitz was commissioned in a ceremony at Naval Station Norfolk's Pier 12 by President Gerald R. Ford. Secretary of Defense James R. Schlesinger, Secretary of the Navy J. William Middendorf and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. James L. Holloway, III, were among the more than 20,000 guests in attendance.
5 7 9 1 , 3 y Ma
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May 3, 2012
Then and Now on
A photo series of past and present Nimitz Sailors working on board the ship. Photo illustrations by MC3 (SW) Robert Winn and MCSN Jess Lewis
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View the complete series on our flickr page: www.flickr.com/cvn68
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