Sopotpilot 121313

December 13, 2013

SOUTH POTOMAC PILOT NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR THE NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUTH POTOMAC DEFENSE COMMUNITY

Dahlgren community honors Gary Wagner

By Andrew Revelos Staff Writer

Link directly to the NSASP Facebook page

Dahlgren Commissary Holiday Hours Monday, Dec. 23 OPEN 0900-1800 Christmas Eve Tuesday, Dec. 24 OPEN 0900 - 1600 Christmas Wednesday, Dec. 25 CLOSED THURSDAY After Christmas Dec. 26 CLOSED

PRESORT STD US POSTAGE PAID SO. MD. NEWSPAPERS PERMIT #1

New Years Day Wednesday Jan. 1, 2014 Closed

The Dahlgren community honored Gary Wagner, public affairs officer for Naval Support Activity South Potomac, for 38 years of service at his retirement ceremony Dec. 6 at the University of Mary Washington Dahlgren Campus.

The ceremony charted a career that began in 1975, when Wagner began an internship program at the then-Naval Surface Weapons Center in Dahlgren as a college student.

Since then, Wagner has lent his considerable talents to the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Naval Space Command, Naval Network and Space Operations Command, and finally, NSASP. “I think all of you are here because [Gary] is one of the best people you know, one of the best in his profession,” said Jeron Hayes, public af-

U.S. Navy photos by Andrew Revelos

Capt. Pete Nette, right, commanding officer of Naval Support Activity South Potomac, presents Gary Wagner, left, with a certificate honoring Wagner’s 38 years of service. fairs specialist for NSASP and ceremony emcee. “He knows

everything about everything.”

Hayes praised Wagner for

his “calm center” and unwavering professionalism. “I have

learned much from him,” she said. “I’ve been honored to work for him and with him.

He’s been a fantastic asset to our command.”

Capt. Pete Nette, commanding officer of NSASP, complimented Wagner on his support to NSASP during Nette’s tour. “The time has come to bid farewell to one of our best,” said Nette. “These past 28 months have been rewarding, enjoyable, hectic, fast-paced and filled with countless seemingly more and more important engagements. I don’t know if it’s on purpose, or if [Gary] just wants to go out in style.”

Nette said Wagner’s mastery of public affairs was evident in “his newspaper and magazine articles, engagement at the local, state and federal levels, phone interviews, radio interviews

See Wagner, Page 4

NAMDC finishes pilot weapons tactics instructor course

Navy Air and Missile Defense Command finished its first Integrated Air Missile Defense Weapons Tactics Instructors Course here 27 Nov. Seven sailors received diplomas and a broadened perspective that will improve the Navy’s Surface Warfare capability.

“They are leaving this course and heading to ships having more tactical knowledge than many of the officers they will be serving with,” said Lt. Cmdr. Marc Davis, WTI coordinator.

“While many courses add a new tool to a toolbox, this course provides an entire mission area tool box.”

WTI curriculum starts with a core competency course on the Aegis weapon system and branches into networks, electronic warfare, mission planning, space warfare, joint capabilities, command and control and multi-ship tactics.

The course provides a mix of guided discussion, tabletop exercises, labs and studentled instruction. Course graduates become trainers and instructors at key training commands throughout the Navy and then return to operational fleet commands.

U.S. Navy photo by Daryl Roy, ATRC

Weapons Tactics Instructor student Lt. Nikolas Creveling (middle) provides guidance to Combat Systems Officer Track students on consoles at the Aegis Training and Readiness Center.

“I know this training is the key to the Navy’s future and you - as graduates - will make a positive impact on the Fleet,” said Rear Adm. Randall Hendrickson, NAMDC commander, during the

graduation ceremony.

The chief of the surface warfare community, Vice Adm. Tom Copeman, has strongly endorsed this program. “Quite frankly, it is long overdue,” he said. “We

are serious about building on maritime war fighting fundamentals and this course will make a tremendous difference.”

Graduates were happy to have the 17-week program

behind them, they were also energized to get back to work and show their wares.

“You will learn very quickly how much you don’t know,” said Lt. Jonathan Nate, a 2009 graduate of the Merchant Marine Academy and a SWO. “Parts of this course are at the 30-foot level while other sections are at 30,000-feet.”

“Be ready to be challenged,” said Lt. Adam Galazka, a former enlisted sailor who graduated from Officer Candidate School in 2009.

“If you are looking for easy shore duty this course is probably not for you.”

The WTI concept dates back to Vietnam when Navy pilots were absorbing high aircrew loss rates in combat.

Some 40 percent of aviators did not survive their first three hostile engagements.

If they survived to flight four, however, they had a 90 percent chance of finishing their tour.

To increase the odds, the Navy Fighter Weapon’s School was born. Known as Top Gun, the training dropped the Navy’s combat losses dramatically. The maturation of this program

See Weapons, Page 3

FREE CLASSIFIED ADS FOR MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES E-mail nsasp_pao_dlgr@navy.mil or Call (540) 653-8153

The South Potomac Pilot

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Friday, December 13, 2013

For pride and turkey; Dahlgren School Jingle Jog

By Andrew Revelos Staff Writer Teachers, administrators, parents and students gathered at Dahlgren School on Dec. 5 for the Jingle Jog race. The event took the place of the previouslyscheduled Drumstick Dash, which was canceled due to inclement weather. The race was part of Dahlgren School’s celebration of the Month of the Military Family in November. Students ran one-sixth of a mile, to one full mile, depending on their age group. The atmosphere was festive, supportive and at the same time, highly-competitive.

“Welcome to the Jingle Jog,” Joseph Plato, physical education teacher at Dahlgren School, told students and parents. “We are still celebrating the Month of the Military Family. We wanted to let you guys know that we do understand how tough it is to be part of the military family. You guys do special things that a normal family doesn’t; I grew up as a military child as well so I understand, and our teachers understand. We just wanted to thank you and show our commitment to your children’s education.”

Plato thanked Margie Stevens, a contractor assigned to the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division Corporate Communications Office and a Dahlgren School alum, and Friends of Dahlgren School, for providing prizes. “I want-

Messiah, 6th grade student at Dahlgren School, is a blur as he speeds to the finish line.

U.S. Navy photos by Andrew Revelos

They’re off! Second and third graders start their half mile race.

Barret, a 5th grade student at Dahlgren School, shows off his turkey hat Dec. 5 at the Jingle Jog. ed to give special thanks to Margie Stevens and Friends of Dahlgren School for ten turkeys, plus gift cards for second place,” he said.

After some adorable warm-up exercises, the race kicked off with a speedy heat of pre-kindergarten students. The contestants quickly completed the onesixth mile, encouraged by parents, teachers and fellow students.

Young Angel won the

boy’s portion of the prekindergarten category. His secret? “I ate vegetables,” he explained.

Pre-kindergarten student Sunnie finished first among the girls and cited similar race preparations. “I ate a bunch of fruit,” she said. “I did it all by myself.”

Sunnie’s mom, Patricia Brown, said she appreciated the inclusiveness cultivated by the event and others like it at Dahlgren School. “It encourages [the students] because all of them get to participate,” she said. “This is like a family here on base and everyone wants to be included.”

The Brown family had big plans for Sunnie’s prize turkey. “I don’t know if we can hold out until Christmas,” said Patricia. “I think we might have to do something a little bit before; we’re probably going to get started on it right away. Sunnie is proud to bring home that

turkey. She had her turkey face on last night. She told me ‘Momma I’m going to win.’ She’s been preparing.”

Sunnie proudly clinched her fist and demonstrated her turkey face for the photographer. Her expression was one part fierce competitor and one part unadulterated cuteness.

The first place finisher in the middle school boys’ category was Kaleb, whose time was an impressive six minutes, 42 seconds. Running at other school activities helped him improve his performance. “From running the mile [at Dahlgren School], I’ve become a little bit quicker and I kept my pace up,” he said. “I just keep my eyes ahead.”

Kaleb offered some simple advice for others who want to improve their running. “Just keep at it,” he said.

Swanson added that it felt “good” to bring home a

turkey for his family and he planned to enjoy his bird on Christmas Day.

Jingle Jog results:

Middle School: 1 mile race First place boy- 6th grader Kaleb Swanson, 6 minutes, 42 seconds First Place girl - 7th grader Rachel Archulet, 7 minutes, 40 seconds 2nd place boy - 6th grader Jacob Miller 7 minutes, 11 seconds 2nd place girl - tied between 7th grader Alyssa Burandt and 8th grader Jade Rattanaxay, 8 minutes, 20 seconds 4th/5th grade: 3/4 mile race First place boy- 5th grader Justin Crouch First Place girl - 4th grader Gabrielle Walters 2nd place boy - 4th grader Andrew Swensen 2nd place girl - 4th grader Maylen Rattanaxay

2nd/3rd grade: 1/2 mile race First place boy- 2nd grader Gabriel Phillips First Place girl - 2rd grader Salma Amrani Joutei 2nd place boy - 3rd grader James Copeland 2nd place girl - 3rd grader Grace Rowlands Kindergarten/1st grade: 1/4 mile race First place boy- Kindergartener Kyler Swensen First Place girl - 1st grader Rachel Harnage 2nd place boy - 1st grader Julian Cosby 2nd place girl - 1st grader Serenity Flores Pre-Kindergarten: 1/6 mile race First place boy - Angel Fausto First Place girl - Sunnie Brown 2nd place boy - Chase Burandt 2nd place girl - Annabelle Teem

Combined Federal Campaign Pumpkin contest

Employees at Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense Command held a pumpkin carving contest to help bring awareness to this year’s Combined Federal Campaign at NSF Dahlgren. Stephanie Possehl and her creation - “Chomp” was crowned champion of this year’s event. Other contestants included Briana Bridgewater - “Sugar Skull”, Janine Wilson - “Take Off”, Shannon Jernigan - “Trick or Eeek”, Kara Cooksey - “Midnight Howler”, Rebecca Rich - “Winnie Witch” andConrad Zellers - “Star Wars”. The event raised $723 for the Combined Federal Campaign.

Government employees and military members can donate to their favorite charities through the end of December by payroll deduction online through myPay or by check, cash or credit card online with the Nexus system. For more information, contact your department or command CFC keyworker.

Friday, December 13, 2013

The South Potomac Pilot

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Macri named NAVSEA 2013 Chief Engineer award recipient From NSWC IHEODTD Public Affairs

CARPOOL/VANPOOL WANTED Riders Needed for Vanpool from commuter lot at the corner of Houser Dr. and Rt. 208 in Spotsylvania. Depart 6 a.m., arrive on base 7 a.m. Depart base at 4 p.m. Mon. - Thurs., 3 p.m. on Fri. Drops at both sides of the base. Contact Nick Sunshine, 540-6533816.

Rider wanted for 7-passenger vanpool.

Departs F’burg/Gordon Rd Commuter lot at 7AM. Departs NSWCDD/Dahlgren at 4:30PM. Transportation Incentive Program System (TIPS) qualified van. Contact Antonio at (540) 653-1512 Rider seeks rideshare from La Plata to Indian Head. Call Louie, 276-971-9837 Employee moving to either Fredericksburg, Va. or Maryland is in need of commute to NSF Dahlgren. Ideal commuting arrangement would be transportation that could pick-up and drop-off at or close to place of residence. Please call for more information, Sheila 214-529-3690.

Starting a Van Pool, 7-passenger van, departs NLT at 6:35 a.m. from Fieldhouse/ Courthouse Rd. commuter lot to Dahlgren, Mon-Thurs 7:15 a.m. to 3:45p.m.; Friday 7:15 a.m. to 3:15p.m. Call Cheng at 540653-5909. A-Gate commuter wanted only.

Van/carpool desired from any rideshare parking area or Reston Town Center.

Depart between 6 to 7a.m., return from Indian Head between 4 to 5 p.m. Call Moses, 301-743-4180.

Van or Car pool desired from Fredericksburg or King George to Indian Head, Monday thru Friday with one RDO, prefer 7a.m. to 4:30p.m., but hours can be negotiated. 703-909-3380.

Want to start a carpool? Need riders?

“Commuter Clearinghouse” is a source for information on carpools or vanpools that already exist and need passengers, as well as a place for employees to advertise to start a carpool or vanpool. Whether you already operate a carpool or vanpool and are open to accepting new riders or need drivers, or if you are looking for a carpool or vanpool, provide us with information that might help you find or start a commuter opportunity, such as, where you will need to commute from and to, preferred schedule and contact information. You can send your information via e-mail to nsasp_pao_dlgr@ navy.mil or contact our office toll free at 866-359-5540, or DSN 249-8153, or 540653-8153.

FREDERICKSBURG RIDESHARING GWRideConnect is a free ridesharing service that assists persons who are seeking daily transportation from Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline and King George counties to employment locations in Dahlgren among other employment sites. www.gwregion.org/gwride connect.html.

Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) named John Macri, chemical engineer at Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division (NSWC IHEODTD), a 2013 Chief Engineer (CHENG) award recipient today.

The annual award recognizes engineering, scientific, and technical authority achievements and contributions to NAVSEA and the U.S. Navy.

“The CHENG awards highlight NAVSEA’s commitment to technical excellence and innovation to support the warfighter,” said Rear Adm. Bryant

Fuller, NAVSEA’s chief engineer. “The recipients of these awards show great leadership in their pursuit of outstanding achievement and unmatched dedication to their craft.”

Macri has spent his 34-year career of working in the field of propellant and explosive development and processing, and was recognized for development of a munitions vacuum-casting process to increase the number of units cast simultaneously. Macri’s process reduced the cost of munitions for the warfighter including the cost of an MK 152 warhead by $100-per warhead, and the MK 14 grenade by $50-per grenade.

NSWC IHEODTD is a field activity of the Naval Sea Systems Command and part of the Department of the Navy’s sci-

ence and engineering enterprise. We are the leader in energetics, energetic materials, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) knowledge, tools, equipment. Our Division focuses on the research, development, test, evaluation, in-service support, and disposal of energetics and energetic systems as well as works to provide Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen worldwide with the information and technological solutions they need to detect/locate, access, identify, render safe, recover/ exploit, and dispose of both conventional and unconventional explosive threats.

Read more on other NAVSEA 2013 CHENG, Scientist and Technical Authority of the Year award recipients at www.navsea.navy.mil/NewsView. aspx?nw=NewsWires&id=340.

Scholarships for Military children

An applicant must be a dependent, members and their families, adminisBy Cherie Huntington DeCA public affairs specialist unmarried child, younger than 21 - or ters the program. Scholarship ManagFORT LEE, Va. - Applications for the 2014 Scholarships for Military Children Program became available Dec. 3 at commissaries worldwide or on the Internet at www.militaryscholar.org.

Applications must be turned in to a commissary by close of business Feb. 28, 2014. Packages must be hand-delivered or shipped via U.S. Postal Service or other delivery methods, not emailed or faxed.

This year’s award amount has risen to $2,000, and the program awards at least one scholarship at each commissary with qualified applicants.

23, if enrolled as a full-time student at a college or university - of a service member on active duty, Reserve or Guard member, retiree or survivor of a military member who died while on active duty, or survivor of a retiree.

Applicants should ensure that they and their sponsor are enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System database and have a military ID card. The applicant must attend or plan to attend an accredited college or university, full time, in the fall of 2014 or be enrolled in studies designed to transfer to a four-year program.

Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps service

ers, a national, nonprofit, scholarship management services organization, manages and awards the scholarships.

Commissary partners and the general public donate money to the program; every dollar donated goes directly to funding the scholarships.

Since inception of the program in 2001, more than $11.3 million in scholarships have been awarded to 7,412 military dependents from more than 71,000 applicants.

For more information, students or sponsors should call Scholarship Managers at 856-616-9311 or email them at militaryscholar@scholarshipmanagers. com.

Weapons: Continuing the established path to success Continued from page 1

through the 80s and 90s formed the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center.

Continuing with this well established path to success, the surface force community decided to offer a WTI program focused on Integrated Air and Missile Defense. Juxtaposing the growing enemy threat against declining tactical proficiency, the data clearly show that the surface force needed a WTI program to enhance tactical skill sets.

At the helm of this Integrated Air and Missile Defense WTI is the Dahlgrenbased Navy Air and Missile Defense Command. This command has a proven team of experienced IAMD trainers and subject matter experts. They are well versed on the threats of our adversaries and the capabilities of Navy fleets.

“Although not a panacea for the gaps we have in IAMD, it is a tremendous step forward for the SWO community,” said Davis. “Course graduates will become trainers and instructors at key commands throughout the Navy and they will play a critical role ensuring the Navy is prepared to defend against existing and emerging air and missile defense threats.”

The next WTI course starts January 13 and graduates May 23; the class following begins May 27. If you want to apply please email NAMDC@Navy.mil for class enrollment information.

Who is eligible?

Second tour Surface Warfare Division officers, first tour surface warfare limited duty officers and chief warrant officers can apply. Prerequisites for this application include a SWO pin, an Anti Air Warfare Coordinator Letter and an endorsement letter from the ship’s commanding officer. Applicants must accept a SWO department head commitment to be eligible. Interested officers are required to submit an application to NAMDC.

How long is the course and what is the syllabus?

The course will run 19 weeks. The syllabus will include a Combat Systems Officer’s Course, IAMD Advanced Tactics, Advanced Mission Commander’s Course and SME Immersion Modules. Students will develop and instruct board members on a tactical bulletin as the capstone event before graduating.

What is my role when I return to the Fleet?

Upon completion of the course WTIs will be assigned to fleet training commands to act as instructors. From there they will be assigned as weapons officers, combat systems officers and operations officers aboard IAMD ships and other key tactical billets for LDOs and CWOs.

What are the incentives for me to take this course?

Benefits are substantial for those who pass. Graduates will be assigned an additional qualification AQD. They’re guaranteed a highly coveted billet as a weapons, combat systems or operations officer on an Aegis ship and will be coded as a WTI, a status officials say will one day be a silver bullet for an officer’s career. Some Sailors will have the option to attend the Naval Post Graduate School Master’s Degree program.

The South Potomac Pilot

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Friday, December 13, 2013

Wagner: Dedication, leadership, wisdom and loyalty to the mission Continued from page 1

and ceremonies.”

“Whenever you get to a command or any type of leadership position, you assess who is with you and who is going to go the distance,” Nette continued. “I have had the honor and privilege of having worked with Gary, someone who has exposed me to the finer points of things such as public speaking, my attempt at a radio interview and showing up [to events] in the right uniform. Before I went anywhere, [my wife] Pauline would always ask ‘Is Gary going with you?’ If the answer was yes, than I knew that she felt good, because the opportunity to misstep just decreased by ten-fold.”

Nette thanked Wagner for helping him lead NSASP and for his friendship. “[Gary’s] dedication to his trade and his loyalty to the mission at the command has been remarkable,” said Nette. “He is typically the last one to leave the building, as well. I truly enjoyed working with him. I find his leadership and wisdom welcoming and look up to Gary as a true friend.”

Nette presented Wagner with a certificate honoring his 38 years of loyal service. Wagner also received a beautiful, hand-made wooden steamer chest as a retirement gift.

Pete Kolakowski, operations department head for NSWCDD, thanked Wagner for all his assistance to Dahlgren’s largest tenant command over the years. “We still need that key that you didn’t return,” Kolakowski joked.

“You’re out of luck,” replied a smiling Wagner, to the audience’s amusement.

Kolakowski praised Wagner’s patience and his knowledge of all things Dahlgren, expertise that helped NSWCDD celebrated the 200th birthday of Rear Adm. John Dahlgren in 2009.

“Gary jumped into it with both feet,” said Kolakowski. “If anybody ever wants a 30-minute, hour, or four-hour tour of the base, he is somebody who is one of the best tour guides I’ve ever seen.”

Wagner’s professionalism helped smooth over differences in mission and perspective between commands at Dahlgren, making events like Rear Adm. Dahlgren’s birthday celebration successful. “Gary assisted us in rolling out the Dahlgren welcome mat,” said Kolakowski. “It was seamless. It was the U.S. Navy to the Dahlgren family and the community. Ever since then, I think Gary and I have felt that way. We are the Navy, even though there are various commands.”

A long list of co-workers, former bosses and acquaintances came to the podium to offer kind words to Wagner for all he accomplished in his long career.

Ed Jones, president of the Dahlgren Heritage Foundation and a former editor of the Free Lance-Star newspaper, enjoyed an oddcouple relationship with Wagner over the years. “By job definition, I should have been

Gary Wagner’s worst nightmare,” said Jones.

“For many years, I was the editor of the daily newspaper in the area. With all of those reporters snooping around to try and get stories that may or may not be in line with what Gary and the commanding officer might like, I think it’s a tribute to Gary’s professionalism that I have become one of his heartiest admirers.”

Gloria Savage-Early, site director for Old Dominion University at the University of Mary Washington Dahlgren Campus, met Wagner at a King George Chamber of Commerce meeting soon after accepting her position. “Immediately, I was impressed with him,” she recalled. “He has such a calmness about him. Everybody talked about that because you don’t have to be around him a long time to experience it. Because I was new and didn’t know a lot of people, he made me feel so welcome, just meeting him. He expressed to me what this area is all about: gentleness and kindness toward people.”

Homer Hite, president of the Potomac Gateway Alliance, thanked Wagner for assisting his organization in many ways, such as helping base visitors navigate Dahlgren’s security. “I appreciate all the help you’ve given me and the Gateway Alliance,” he said. “I thank you for that.”

Joe Grzeika, member of the King George County Board of Supervisors, thanked Wagner for the professionalism that helped the base and the county work through challenges.

Though he and Wagner did not always agree, said Grzeika, their friendship endured. “Gary, we appreciate the relationship, the partnership, the friendship that you have had with the county over these many years. You’ve been a champion, an advocate and a collaborator and we appreciate that. You’re the face of the base; you’re the entry point and you do good job putting positive energy into all you do.”

Dan Crowl, former deputy commander at Naval Network and Space Operations Command said he “depended” on Wagner’s expertise and respected the “outstanding results” of Wagner’s efforts.

Crowl once discussed his own retirement with Wagner from the Marine Corps after 38 years of service; Wagner patiently wrote several draft retirement letters for Crowl before he finally accepted one. “God bless you and your family,” Crowl told Wagner. “You’ve done a hell of a great job for this country. You’re a true American and I’m proud of you and everybody in the room is proud of you.”

Julie Gifford, regional military liaison for Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell, said Wagner’s skill improved the relationship between the state and Dahlgren. “It’s been an honor to work with Gary,” she said. “I’ve learned from him and he’s just one of the best [public affairs officers] I’ve ever worked with. He’s made the relationship between the Commonwealth and Dahlgren even better. On behalf of the gover-

U.S. Navy photos by Andrew Revelos

Gary Wagner, right, public affairs officer for Naval Support Activity South Potomac, and his wife Sally, left, share a laugh at Wagner’s retirement ceremony Dec. 6. nor, I want to thank you for your service to this country and the Commonwealth.”

Joe Montano, northern Virginia regional director for Sen. Tim Kaine, noted that he was just beginning his own career as Wagner neared retirement. Kaine’s recent visit to Dahlgren was the first organized by Montano and he received much assistance from the public affairs veteran. “The relationship between my boss and this base is owed to that first visit and Gary was a big part of that,” said Montano. “Thank you Gary, for being so helpful for me in my new role.”

When the man of the hour took the stage, he thanked all who helped him during his successful career. “You have honored me by all of you being here today,” said Wagner. “Thank you so much. You definitely have touched my heart.”

Wagner looked to some famous writers to help put retirement into perspective. “Ernest Hemingway said that retirement is the ugliest word in the English language,” he said, grinning. “I’m not quite sure what his issue was with retirement.”

Wagner thought Gene Perret, writer for The Carol Burnett Show, offered a better perspective. Perret famously wrote “I enjoy waking up and not having to go to work, so I do it three or four times a day.”

On a more serious note, Wagner said the season was fitting for his retirement. “The Thanksgiving season, the Christmas season, is very special to me because it causes me to reflect on the many blessings that we have,” he said. “It’s a season of thanksgiving, of hope, of peace and goodwill.”

Keeping that meaning of the season in mind, Wagner offered a long list of the many

things for which he is thankful. “I’m thankful as well to the U.S. Navy,” he said. “It’s been a great 38 years.”

Wagner thanked all who helped him during his career, from his time leading the NSASP public affairs, to the mentors in the early part of his career when he was “wet behind the ears.”

Wagner said the thing that kept him going was the fun he had doing his job; the thing he will miss the most, however, is the people. “In spite of all the experiences, good and bad, all along the way, it’s been the people that I’ve had the pleasure to meet and work with all these many years,” he said.

Working for a command like NSASP has also been highly-rewarding, said Wagner. “[We] are mutually supporting, mutually respectful of one another and what each person brings to the fight. We’ve truly been a team.”

Wagner thanked Nette for helping make the last few years of his career so enjoyable and productive. “I couldn’t have asked for a better commanding officer in my last boss,” Wagner said. “He is one of the most sincere, genuine and affirming leaders I have ever worked for.”

Most of all, however, Wagner thanked his family. “I want to say thank you to my mom and my dad. Dad passed on some years ago but Mom is here today. When I think about my folks, the thing that I really remember the most is that they were never cynical about things I wanted to do in my life. They were always supportive.

“And thanks to my wife, Sally,” Wagner continued. “She’s my best friend, my soul mate and the richest of all God’s gifts to me.”

NSA South Potomac • Office: 540-653-8153 • 540-284-0129 www.dcmilitary.com/dahlgren

The South Potomac Pilot Newspaper is published weekly by Southern Maryland Newspapers and Printing, 7 Industrial Park Drive, Waldorf, Md. 20602, a private company in no way connected with the U.S. Navy, under exclusive written contract with Naval District Washington.

This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of The South Potomac Pilot are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supple-

Capt. Peter Nette

Commanding Officer, NSA South Potomac

Gary R. Wagner

Public Affairs Officer, NSA South Potomac

ments, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or Southern Maryland Newspapers and Printing of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation

is corrected.

Editorial content is edited, prepared, and provided by the Public Affairs Office, NSA South Potomac. News copy should be submitted by noon on Friday to be considered for the following week’s edition. All material is edited for accuracy, brevity, clarity, and conformity to regulations. To inquire about news copy, call 540-653-8153 or fax The South Potomac Pilot at 540-653-4269. Commercial advertising may be placed with the publisher by calling 301-645-9480.

Jeron Hayes

Breton Helsel and Deirdre Parry

NSA South Potomac Managing Editor

Andrew Revelos Staff Reporter

Copy/layout editors, The Gazette/ Comprint Military Publications

The South Potomac Pilot

Friday, December 13, 2013

5

MWR Highlights

Movie Theater

a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) or TRX, Upper Body and Core (12:30 to 1:30 p.m.). Both classes are offered on a first come, first serve basis. For more information, please contact the Fitness Coordinator at 540-653-2016.

540-653-7336 Friday and Saturday: 7 p.m. Showings Price of Shows Civilians - $5 AD, Retired, Reserve, Family Members (E7 - above) $4 AD, Reserve, Family Members (E6 - below) - $2.50 Child (6-11) - $2; Child (5 and under) - Free Tickets for a movie shown in 3-D are an additional $1

Bowling Center Ham Bowl

December 1 - 19 Eligible patrons include all with base access.

Bowl three spares in a row and enter your name into a drawing for a Christmas Ham! The drawing for the Christmas ham will be on Thursday, December 19 at 2 p.m. For more information, please contact Cannonball Lanes at 540-653-7327.

Santa Hat Bowling

December 18 Eligible patrons include all with base access.

Come in wearing a Santa Hat on Wednesdays, during December, and get half-off game prices. For more information, please contact Cannonball Lanes at 540-653-7327.

Bowling with Santa

December 21, 2 - 4 p.m.

Eligible patrons include all with base access.

Cost: $8.50/child, which includes two games with Santa and shoe rental. For more information, please contact Cannonball Lanes at 540-653-7327.

9-Pin No Tap Tournament

December 28, 6 p.m.

Eligible patrons include all with base access.

Cost: $10/person. This is a singles tournament. Bowl a series, 9 pins count as strikes. Trophies will be awarded to the top three bowlers. For more information, please contact Cannonball Lanes at 540-653-7327.

Liberty Center Christmas Eve Dinner and Jingle Bell Bingo - Free

December 24, 1:30 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Open to Liberty patrons only: E1- E6 single/unaccompanied active duty Military.

Join Liberty for Christmas Eve dinner. Be sure to stick around after dinner for Jingle Bell Bingo and win some prizes! For more information, please contact the Liberty Center at 540-653-7277.

Christmas Dinner - FREE

December 25, 1:30 p.m.

Open to Liberty Center patrons only Not going home for the holidays? Join your Liberty crew for a holiday meal! For more information, please contact the Liberty Center at 540-653-7277.

New Year’s Eve Movie Marathon - Free

December 31 Open to Liberty Center patrons only Watch great movies and enjoy New Year’s goodies at Liberty. Special hours: Noon - 1 a.m. New Year’s Day Hours: Noon - 8 p.m. For more information, please contact the Liberty Center at 540-653-7277.

General Library Crafternoons (Gingerbread House) - Free

December 20, 2 - 3 p.m.

Eligible patrons include all with base access.

Stop by the library to create a special gingerbread house for the holidays. For more information, please contact the General Library at 540-653-7474.

Fitness Center

Plum Pudding Burn - Free

December 27, 11:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Eligible patrons include all with base access.

Come burn off some of those extra holiday calories. Attend one or both of the following classes: Spinning (11:30

Special Events Winter Wonderland

Winter Wonderland returns to NSF Indian Head on December 21 from 1100-1400. Join us in the gym for music, games, crafts, pictures with Santa and tons of fun for everyone.

If you have a little one who’d like to receive a call from Santa, be sure to register for Santa Calling! Santa will be at NSF Indian Head on December 17 from 1800-2000 to give all who register a phone call. Registration forms can be turned in to any MWR facility or emailed to Corey McCabe at corey. mccabe@navy.mil.

ITT Purchase Holiday Gifts Now

ITT is a great place to get holiday gifts for family and friends! White House ornaments, movie tickets, ski tickets, Tee Time Golf passes and much more are available. Stop by or call 301-744-4850 for information.

Friday, December 13th 7 p.m. - Thor: The Dark World (3D)*, PG-13 Saturday, December 14th 7 p.m. - Delivery Man, PG-13 Friday, December 20th 3 p.m. - The Grinch (FREE!), PG Friday, December 20th 5 p.m. - Rise of the Guardians (FREE!), PG Friday, December 20th 7 p.m. - Thor: The Dark World PG-13 Saturday, December 21st 7 p.m. - The Best Man Holiday, R

Christmas to Remember

Stars and Strikes Bowling Center Bowling with Santa

Santa is coming to the Stars and Strikes Bowling Center from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. on December 14! Bowling with Santa is only $5 per person and includes 2 hours of bowling, shoes, snacks and unlimited fun!!!

Fitness Center Jingle Bell Fun Run

The Jingle Bell Fun Run is December 19 and starts at 11 a.m. from the Weight House Fitness Center. Jingle your way around the base with a caroling Santa! Prizes will be awarded to 1st and 2nd place male and female finishers. A prize will also go to the participant with the best jingle bell costume.

5-on-5 Winter Basketball

Registration for the 5-on-5 winter basketball tournament is now open and runs through Jan 3. For more information or to register your team, please contact Tracey Barrett at 301-744-4661 or tracey.barrett@navy.mil.

10 Lb. Challenge

If you’re looking to lose a few pounds at the start of the new year, the 10 Lb. Challenge returns to the Weight House Fitness Center. The challenge starts January 3 and ends the week of March 7. Stop by the fitness center for more information or to register.

Weight House Fitness Center Open House

The annual Weight House Fitness Center Open House is January 3. Enjoy a free group exercise class and meet all the great people that work in the fitness center.

Storytime

General Library

Storytime takes place the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month at the General Library beginning at 2:30 p.m. Enjoy a story and a craft at no charge for all with base access. It’s a great way to spend a wintery afternoon!

Courtesy photos

On Saturday, December 7, the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Special Events department held its Annual Winter Festival titled a “ A Christmas to Remember” at the NSF Dahlgren Community House. The more than two hundred children who attended had the chance to take a picture with Santa, participate in a variety of holiday games and crafts, decorate muffins and have their face painted. Thanks to all the MWR team members who participated selflessly and gave their time, energy, creativity, and compassion to make the event a very special Christmas to Remember.

FFSC Classes

December 2013 Dahlgren 16 17 19-20 19 23

Stress Mgmt Part 1 $ and Divorce Small Business Brief Deployment Discussion Stress Mgmt Part 2

1130-1300 1400-1500 0730-1600 1200-1300 1130-1300

Indian Head 18 18

Smooth Move Deployment Discussion

1030-1200 1200-1300

The South Potomac Pilot

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Community Notes Dahlgren Santa is coming to the KG Firehouse

Santa is coming to the King George Firehouse! Join us on Friday, December 13 from 5-8 p.m. at King George Fire Department, 8122 Kings Hwy., King George - across from Food Lion. Get your picture taken with Santa! Enjoy refreshments and see the fire trucks.

Trinity United Methodist Christmas Play

The youth, ages 5 - 17, of Trinity United Methodist Church in King George will perform an original play, “A Prodigal Christmas” on Sunday, Dec. 15 at the 10:30 a.m. service and again at 2 p m. Trinity United Methodist Church is located on Rt. 3 across from the Opp Shop in King George.

The show is free and open to all.

Holiday Concert

The Stafford Regional Choral Society will present its annual Christmas concert, “Christmas Traditions Old and New”, at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 15 at Colonial Forge High School, Stafford, VA. The concert features the society orchestra and chorus in a program that weaves familiar cho-

ruses from Handel’s “Messiah” with traditional and contemporary Christmas selections. Admission is free but donations will be accepted and refreshments will be available.

Call 540-373-0215, e-mail info@ staffordchoral.org , or visit us at www.staffordchoral.org for additional information.

Please come join us at this family friendly performance.

Indian Head Registration for Middle School Basketball

Middle school students can register to play in the Charles County Parks & Rec high school basketball preparatory league.” This league is designed to allow middle school students who have dreams of playing high school basketball an opportunity to play against their peers. There will be an eight game regular season with playoffs. Players can only play at the middle school community center that they currently attend. Students attending private school must play for the center in their appropriate school zone. Practice is estimated to start the week of March 11.

This program is open to all students in grades six through eight for the 2013-2014 school year. Divisions include the following: Sixth grade boys, Seventh grade boys, Eighth grade boys, Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade girls Registration fee is $90 (or $75 if registered by Feb. 16).

The registration deadline is March 2. Save $15 if you register by February 16. Register online at www.CharlesCountyParks.com. For more information, call 301-934-9305 or

Friday, December 13, 2013

301-870-3388, ext 5152.

For information on other programs offered by Community Services, visit our website at www.CharlesCountyParks. com, or call 301-934-9305 or 301-870-3388. Those citizens with special needs please contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.

Charles County Health Care Information Event

On Oct. 1, the Affordable Care Act went into effect. Uninsured Maryland residents now have the opportunity to register for expanded health insurance options through the Affordable Care Act and the Maryland Health Connection. To help individuals learn about, compare, and sign up for health insurance policies, Charles County is hosting a Health Benefits Fair on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the College of Southern Maryland (8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata) in the Center for Business and Industry.

Residents will receive information and speak to experts about coverage options, and register to receive health insurance benefits, which will take effect on Wednesday, Jan. 1. A small business expert will be on hand to discuss health insurance coverage options for small businesses.

All Charles County residents who do not have health insurance coverage are urged to take advantage of this free event. Appointments are not required but an appointment slot can be reserved in advance by calling 800-975-2965. For more information, visit http://www.CharlesCountyHealth. org or call 800-975-2965.

Base Happenings Dahlgren

Transition-GPS Education Track Workshop

The Dahlgren Fleet and Family Support Center will hold a Transition-GPS Education Track Workshop Dec. 16 - 17 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Class is designed for service members pursuing higher education after the military. The class will help identify educational goals, higher education institutions and education funding as well as assist with the admission process. To register, call the NSF Dahlgren FFSC at 540-653-1839.

FFSC Small Business Seminar

An Entrepreneurs Class is scheduled at the Fleet and Family Support Center on Dec 19th and 20th. Classes start at 0800. Please call to register

by Friday, Dec 13th if you plan to attend. Space is limited. Call 540-653-1839 to register or for additional information.

DMV2Go at Dahlgren Jan. 15

DMV2Go will be at NSF Dahlgren on the Parade Field Pavilion Parking lot on Jan. 15 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Be sure to bring all necessary documents and save yourself lots of time - process your transaction with little or no wait!

Indian Head

Navy Federal Credit Union holiday drives

Navy Federal Credit Union at NSF Indian Head will be holding a food drive and a coat drive to benefit the Children’s Aid Society of Charles County.

The food drive will run through November 21st and the coat drive will run through December 13th. Thank you for your support!

To publish information on your event or program under “Base Happenings,” contact NSASP Public Affairs at 540-653-8153 or email jeron. hayes@navy.mil.

VITA needs volunteers

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Season is fast approaching and the Fleet and Family Support Center is in need of volunteers. You will be get the chance to learn more about taxes while at the same time assist military members and their families in tax preparation and help them save money! Please call the FFSC at 540-653-1839 for more information or in interested in participating. Training will be provided.

The South Potomac Pilot

Friday, December 13, 2013

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Small collector pays CASH for Coins / Collections / Gold. Will come to you. Al 301-807-3266

Apartments GREAT MILLS: 1 br fully furnished apt, utilites included, short/l term lease.

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Check out what’s happening at all Military Installations around MD/DC/VA!

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Friday, December 13, 2013