Nimitz News
Pearl Harbor Special Edition
December 7, 2012 Vol. 37, No. 38
Commanding Officer Capt. Jeff S. Ruth Executive Officer Capt. Buzz Donnelly Command Master Chief Master Chief Teri M. McIntyre Public Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Karin Burzynski Media Division Officer Lt. Jason Scarborough Media LCPO MCC Mike Jones Media Production Chief MCC Gregory Roberts Editor MC2 Nichelle Whitfield Lead Designer MCSA Phillip Ladouceur
Media Department MC2 Michael Cole MC2 Jacquelyn Childs MC2 Ashley Berumen MC2 Nathan Gomez MC2 Vladimir Potapenko MC2 Thomas Siniff MC2 Robert Winn MC2 Glenn Slaughter MC2 Andrew Jandik MC3 Ryan Mayes MC3 Ian Cotter MC3 Shayne Johnson MC3 Jacob Milner MC3 Devin Wray MC3 Christopher Bartlett MC3 Alexander Ventura II MC3 Derek Volland MC3 Linda Swearingen MC3 Renee L. Candelario MCSN Jess Lewis MCSN W. J. Cousins MCSN Vanessa David MCSN George Penney
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.
2
USMAP provides certification Story by MCSN Vanessa Y. David n today’s intimidating economy, the job market could be a challenge for anyone out there, but there are tools at the disposal of those who are serving on active duty, which will allow the opportunity for new doors to open after a career in the military comes to a close. Among the avenues available for gaining certification that translates outside of the military and potentially boost evaluations while still in the service, lies the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP). “It is a good program that is looked at when going up for the Sailor of the Quarter board, going for Chief, and it’s counted toward college,” said Chief Navy Counselor Denise Haynie, USS Nimitz’ (CVN 68) Command Career Counselor. USMAP is a formal military training program executed by the Center for Personal and Professional Development that provides a Journeyman Certificate from the Department of Labor (DOL), which is difficult to receive on the civilian side. Employment in the building trades, such as carpenter, electrician or plumber usually require applicants hold a state or local license as a journeyman or master, which certifies that the craftsman has met the requirements of time in the field and in an approved classroom setting. The qualifications required for USMAP are that users must be on active duty or fulltime support in the Coast Guard, Marine Corps or Navy. In addition, users must be designated in a rating, have sufficient time to complete the program while on active duty, possess a high school diploma or GED, and the selected trade must be your primary job at your command.
I
“For any trade you’re working on, you can only log up to eight hours a day/40 hours a week unless you’re underway,” said Haynie. “At that point, you can log up to 12 hours, but you have to provide justification. They know that Sailors usually work up to 16 hours a day.” The program only requires logged hours to be turned in once every six months. If users are negligent, they will be dropped from the system. Once dropped from the program, it’s difficult to be reinstated. “The most common way that I see people get dropped from USMAP is that they will be entered into the program while they are in ‘A’ School, and they aren’t aware of the program or the fact that they were dropped until they report to their command and hear about it there,” said Haynie. “In those cases, you can send an e-mail to explain the situation. They’ll let you restart, but that will be your last chance.” USMAP offers pre-registration credit for past work experience at the time of enrollment. In order to be eligible, there must be at least one year from the date of completion of the rating/MOS training the date of enrollment. To contact the USMAP office for more information, e-mail USMAP@navy.mil or speak to your departmental career counselor.
71
would swing the advantage in a “decisive battle,” Japan ignored the oil tank farms, Navy yard and submarines that would help sustain the Navy’s early war effort. These assets, coupled with the fact that all aircraft carriers located at Pearl were not present for the attack, gave the U.S. a platform to destabilize Japan’s war plans and effectively break the island nation from its connection to war-producing resources such as oil and rubber. Though bloodied, America had yet to be broken, and Japan’s prediction of a quick U.S. exit from the western Pacific proved myopic. Instead of dampening morale, the attack on Pearl Harbor united the U.S. behind a common bond. This list of names etched in marble stands in tribute to those who lost their lives Years burdened by depression, natural because of the attack on Pearl Harbor. (Photo by MC2 Nichelle N. Whitfield) disasters and diverging interests faded into the past, and the production of a new American dynamism sprung up these political realities that the Empire Story by MC2 Vladimir Potapenko with its war effort. Names became of Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on he sound is a hum, a slogans, unifying chants: “Remember December 7, 1941. steady vibration as soft and Pearl Harbor,” “Remember the News of the impending attack encompassing as the Hawaiian breeze. Arizona.” More than 2,000 men had reached Washington D.C. without Only 7 a.m. on a Sunday, it mixes time to prepare Sailors for what was to died and another 1,100 were wounded, well with the work of a base shaking come. As Pearl Harbor Sailors were first but their sacrifice was not taken in vain. itself from a weekend drowsiness. As reading telegraphs of a possible attack, America would take the example set a Navy preparing for its place in the by those men, an example of courage they had already made the invisible wars that surround it, men ignore the and commitment to duty, and go on and transition to war-fighters. sound as it works its way to a buzz. win the war against the Japanese and its Aiming to cripple the U.S.’s ability It is background noise, a rhythm as allies Germany and Italy. to mount a retaliatory campaign, the acceptable as the conversations in a Now, 71 years from that day and its Japanese saw a full-scale attack on Pearl soon forgotten dream. “Air raid, Pearl Harbor. This is not a Harbor, and particularly its battleships, events, the facts of what took place do not change. The number of ships sunk drill.” The 1MCs and PA systems across as the clearest way of guaranteeing and the number of men dead will be conquest of the Far East without U.S. the base relay the message as staccato the same tomorrow as it will be 100 interference. To accomplish the task, bursts of gunfire kick up earth. The years from now. What does change, buzz is now a roar. Men, some of whom Japan employed six aircraft carriers, however, is how we honor those nearly 400 aircraft and a unit of half-dressed and half-asleep, run to who have come before us. With the submarines, only suffering a loss of 29 their general quarters stations as walls wounds already scarred over and the aircraft. of fire stretch out around them. This pain supplanted by fresher hurts, it is In total, the “sneak attack” was a is not a drill; this is not a dream. This important to not let December 7, 1941 tactical success. More than 20 U.S. is a declaration of war. As hordes of and Pearl Harbor assume a position in silhouettes advance from beyond where ships and 300 aircraft were damaged, the mechanical order of our national the sky meets the water, it is obvious the and the fleet of battleships Japan so greatly deemed important were maimed. memory. Over time, it seems, the declaration is a shout not a whisper. importance of an event gives way to the Hungry for resources, the Empire of Gone from the coastal landscape were importance of making sure we commit the Arizona, Oklahoma, West Virginia Japan had its sights set on Malaya and and California, their hulls resting on the it to memorization. No, let us instead the oil rich Dutch East Indies. Having already invaded Manchuria and French harbor’s floor, entombed with the crew think of how it runs parallel to us, separated by a film of time, mirroring members who were unable to escape. Indochina, Japan was on a decades the common bonds of honor, courage Yet with all of its success, it was what long streak of aggression and only had one obstacle blocking the realization of Japan failed to accomplish that day that and commitment. It is then that we are able to walk in their shoes. It is then we mapped the course for the next four its own Manifest Destiny: the United can say we pay respect to those men years. States and its Pacific Fleet stationed and understand their significance. Focusing on what officials thought at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. It was with
years later
Remembering Pearl Harbor
T
3
Remembering December 7th 1941"A date which will live in infamy..." Chief Electrician's Mate Andrew Golembewski, Chief Intelligence Specialist Aaron Poore and Chief Information Systems Technician Joshua Murphy perform morning colors on board USS Nimitz (CVN 68) in honor and remembrance of the events that took place in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Dec. 7, 1941
"Seventy-one years ago they prepared for morning colors. Some were busy putting a nice shine on their shoes, checking their uniforms one last time. Others were eagerly making plans on how they would spend their quiet, tranquil Hawaiian Sunday liberty. Still others kept the watch. They would enjoy their liberty tomorrow. Seventy-one years ago, just before morning colors, they all gave up their tomorrows so that we may have ours." "First call, first call to colors." "Hickham Field, Pearl Harbor. USS Tennessee, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Nevada, California, West Virginia, Oklahoma, and Arizona... Remember."
Photos by MC2 Robert Winn, MC3 Devin Wray and MC3 Robert J. Mayes
Happy HanuRamaKwanzaMas? and radio stations refuse to use the word and many department stores are bedecked with “Happy Holidays” signs but devoid of Christmas placards. It’s as though we have created a new religious holiday HanuRamaKwanzaMas. I think this “holidays” concept he Christmas season is upon misrepresents all of us regardless of us and as you know December th faith. Hanukkah is the Festival of 25 is the big day. It’s the date that Christians, worldwide, celebrate the Lights. It’s an eight-day Jewish holiday birth of their Messiah, Jesus Christ. commemorating the rededication of the Christians believe that Jesus was born to Holy Temple (the Second Temple) in a virgin named Mary who was betrothed Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean to Joseph, a simple wood-working man. Revolt of the 2nd century BC. Ramadan Their linage belonged to King David, is the ninth month of the Islamic so, when Caesar Augustus wanted the calendar. Participating Muslims refrain world to be registered, they traveled to from eating, drinking, smoking and sex Bethlehem and were enrolled there since during daylight hours in order to teach it was the “city of David.” Upon arrival, about patience, spirituality, humility and no rooms were to be found for the couple submissiveness to God. Kwanzaa is a to stay in so they were relegated to the week-long celebration held in the United barn, probably a lower stone room of the States honoring universal Africanhouse where the cattle were held. When American heritage and culture and is Mary gave birth to Jesus, he was laid observed from December 26 to January in the manger, a feeding trough and the 1 each year. It features activities such most appropriate location to place the as lighting a candle holder with seven “bread of Life” (John 6:35). God came candles and culminates in a feast and to earth and dwelled among his people, gift giving. It was created by Maulana he took human flesh and bone upon himself (hence the word mass in Christmas) in order to be the perfect sacrifice for their sins as he was also to be crucified upon the cross of Mt. Calvary. There it is in a nutshell, the basic elements of Christmas and, consequently, of the Christian faith. This time of year there is great confusion about what Christmas really is and much debate about even saying the term “Christmas.” Is it about Jesus? Is it about family and presents? Or, is it merely a day off work? Almost all television
Story by LCDR Richard A. Townes, Jr. CHC, USN
T
6
Karenga and was first celebrated in 1966–1967. The name Kwanzaa derives from the Swahili phrase matunda ya kwanza, meaning first fruits of the harvest. These are very important days to those who practice each. As a chaplain it’s my job and pleasure to ensure that each sailor’s faith is practiced. My personal belief is that every sailor should be as devoted to his or her religion as possible and I will do everything within my power to ensure that freedom to worship is a part of this ship’s religious ministry program. That does not mean, however, that any single religion is repressed. December 25th is Christmas. If you are not a Christian, enjoy this festive day to the extent that your faith and personal convictions allow, but also please respect it as a Christian holy day. Likewise, Christians are to respect the holy days of other religions. Let’s not, as a society, be boiled down to the lowest common denominator where our festival days are reduced to HanuRamaKwanzaMas. Merry Christmas!
A single sailor's Christmas Story by MC3 Chris Bartlett If you are one of the Sailors who will be spending the holidays on base you may be wondering what there is for you to do. Fortunately, here at Naval Station Everett, there are a wide variety of activities available to keep you in the holiday spirit. If you’re looking to tell Santa your Christmas wishes, feast on delicious meals, win fantastic prizes, or party down to some live music, the base has you covered. So, don’t spend your time on the ship or in your barracks room. Find a shipmate or two and celebrate together at any of these venues. Happy Holidays! Holiday Meals at The All American Christmas Eve, December 24th $10.95 per person Brunch 9-11AM Dinner 1:30-5PM Open salad bar, dinner rolls, roasted beef tenderloin with basil-curry mayonnaise, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans almandine, apple pie a la mode. (Meal pass patrons free.) Christmas Day, December 25th $10.95 per person (free to barracks housing) Brunch 9-11AM Dinner 1:30-5PM Open salad bar, black pepper biscuits, aromatic spiced ham, creamed spinach, potatoes au gratin, Christmas citrus squares.
Breakfast with Santa December 15th, 9-11AM at the Grand Vista Ball room (Commons) $4.95 per person, (kids under 2 years old are free.) Includes a hearty breakfast, holiday activities and crafts, and visit with Santa. Reservations required. 425-304-3906/425-304-3175 The Night Before Christmas Party December 24th,7-11PM, free at Vibes Liberty Center Rockaoke: Karaoke with a live band! Food! Bingo! Music! Prizes! White Elephant!
Tremors Open Christmas Eve, December 24th and Christmas Day, December 25th from 3-11PM. Drink specials from 4-6PM. 12 Day of Christmas Stop by Vibes Liberty Center and pick up your 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS calendar. Earn stamps each time you attend a Liberty Event. Turn in your stamped calendar at the Night Before Christmas Party for the chance to win a Tablet!
7
Christmas tree lighting Story by MCSN George Penney III, Photos by MCSN William Children attend Cousins the Christmas Rain could not keep away the holiday spirit, during the tree lighting. 15th annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Jackson Plaza aboard Naval Station Everett Dec. 6. Families braved the chilly afternoon air to catch a glimpse of Old St. Nick and snack on holiday goodies, including hot chocolate, apple cider, coffee and a large assortment of cookies. “The best part of this whole experience is seeing everything come together,” said Michael Petrowski, employee with Morale, Welfare and Recreation at Naval Station Everett. Petrowski has helped organize the annual event for the past four years and was anticipating a healthy turnout for the day’s activities, despite the unpredictable Washington weather. “This year we tried something a little different,” said Petrowski. “Usually, the event takes place indoors, but this year we decided to move the event outside.” Craft tables, provided by Fleet and Family Services, lined the entrance of The Commons and provided creative activities for all ages. “I love the looks on the children’s faces as they use their imagination to create gingerbread houses and Christmas cards,” said Lyn Smith, educator with Fleet and Family Services, Naval Station Everett. Outdoor events included Holiday carolers, live band music, and a highly anticipated visit from the one and only Santa Claus. “Ho Ho Ho,” exclaimed Santa Claus, announcing his arrival, which brought a smile to all in attendance, including the adults. Some of the smaller children gasped with excitement as the jolly man in the red outfit made his way through the crowd. His journey ended upon a red sofa chair where he received Christmas wishes from children in the audience. After receiving many Holiday requests, including those from a few good spirited adults, Santa signaled the start of the evening’s main event. Dozens of Sailors and their family members gathered around the tree to witness the lighting ceremony led by Santa himself. The sound of applause filled the air as Jackson Plaza lit up with Carollers sing to Sailors and their families attending the Holiday cheer.
Christmas tree lighting at The Commons at Naval Station Everett.
8
Chihuly Story & photos by MC3 Ryan J. Mayes
T
he holidays are upon us and with that, many Sailors will look for ways to spend time with their loved ones. On the list of sights you won’t want to miss is the new Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit located at the Seattle Center. Situated directly below the Seattle Space Needle, the glass exhibit features the many works of Washington native, Dale Chihuly, in an astounding twopart experience. The first portion of the exhibit is an indoor gallery featuring many of Chihuly’s smaller works that lead into the glass house exhibit. From there, visitors can choose to either eat at the Collections Café or enter the garden portion of the exhibit. The garden features the larger pieces of art incorporated into the complimentary landscape, creating a single work of art that can only be described as a wonderland.
Known worldwide by the art community, Chihuly takes the art of glass blowing to a new level, creating glass features that reach more than 30 feet into the sky and excite the imagination in the young and old alike. The tour features a self-guided, audio walkthrough accessible through the visitor’s personal mobile device’s web browser. Complimentary headphones are provided. Night and day passes are available at various prices with package options that include a pass to the Space Needle. Although the exhibit is not free of charge, it deserves consideration when planning future outings. For more information and ticketing options visit: chihulygardenandglass.com
10
11