July 6, 2012
SOUTH POTOMAC PILOT NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR THE NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY SOUTH POTOMAC DEFENSE COMMUNITY
INSIDE:
Living shoreline nears completion By Andrew Revelos NSASP Staff Writer
To Peddle, protect, and serve, Page 4
PRESORT STD US POSTAGE PAID SO. MD. NEWSPAPERS PERMIT #1
Dahlgren and the Potomac, Page 7
Ten years after the Navy produced a shoreline management plan intended to protect its assets along the Potomac River at Naval Support Facility (NSF) Indian Head and the base's Stump Neck Annex, the project to construct 17,100 feet of living shoreline is nearly complete. Construction of the sills and breakwaters along shores of the Potomac River and Mattawoman Creek was completed in late May. Last week, volunteers worked for four days, some of them in sweltering heat, to plant more of the natural vegetation that will hold onto the shoreline. The full shoreline restoration project - conducted in four phases has created 12 acres of wetland, planted nearly 50,000 trees and shrubs, and carpeted the riverbank with 100,000 square feet of native, warm weather grasses. "This has been the culmination of a 12-year effort," said Jeff Bossart, environmental program director for Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP). "We expect the final planting to be in the fall." Erosion and storm damage caused a road onboard NSF Indian Head to collapse in 1998. The Navy was forced to demolish several critical facilities and several more were threatened. A shoreline manage-
U.S. Navy photos by Andrew Revelos
Volunteers plant grass and pickerel weed along the shoreline of Stump Neck Annex as a nearby test at NSF Indian Head is visible in the distance. ment plan in 2002 called for the construction of a living shoreline to not only protect those assets, but do so in a way that would help protect the delicate ecology of the Chesapeake Bay region. The $20 million project now protects $54 million of Navy property. "The significance of the shoreline project is that the Navy was able to protect mission-critical infrastructure, enhance aquatic-terrestrial plant and animal habitat, and improve water quality within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed," said Seth Barry, natural resources program manager for NSASP's Environmental Division at NSF Indian Head.
In a time of budget cuts, the project came "at a minimal cost, as opposed to relocating infrastructure and personnel," said Berry, who thanked the project's many organizations and volunteers for it a success.
Improved habitat, water quality
The National Aquarium conservation team spearheaded the planting effort with the help of several other organizations, including the Maryland Conservation Corps and Americorps. A diverse group of volunteers came together for the most recent effort to plant grass and pick-
Maria Harwood, a conservation technician with the National Aquarium Conservation Team, teaches volunteers how to use a long-handled dibbler. erel weed along stretches of the base's shoreline, a process that began in 2008. "This is a win-win situation for the Navy and for the environment," said Laura Bankey, director of conservation for the National Aquarium. "It protects the shoreline and it
See Shoreline, Page 2
Command change for Air Force detachment Air Force Capt. Roland Rainey Jr. is slated to take command of the 614th Air and Space Operations Center, Detachment One, at Naval Support Facility Dahlgren on July 11. Rainey will become the unit's second commanding officer when he relieves Maj. Jason D'Alessio, who has led the detachment since it was activated in April 2010. Rainey entered the Air Force in 1993 as an enlisted personnel specialist. He was named a distinguished graduate and recipient of the John L. Levitow Award at the Airman Leadership School at Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB), S.D., and subsequently received his commission through the ROTC program at Colorado State University in 2003. During his career, Rainey has served in a variety of space and missile assignments,
missile crew operations, space and missiles evaluations and satellite operations. His commands have included both missile and space operations flights. Rainey deployed to Thumrait AB, Oman, in support of Operation Desert Fox in Southwest Asia, and subsequently was assigned as senior crew evaluator for the Global Positioning System, 50th Operations Group, 50th Space Wing, at Schriever AFB, Colo. Rainey reports to Dahlgren from Schriever AFB where he continued with the 50th Operations Group as chief of the Evaluations Branch. He was responsible for Air Force Space Command's largest evaluations corps consisting of 40 evaluators, and advising the group commander and eight squadron commanders on space training and evaluation requirements. He ensured the pro-
Capt. Roland Rainey Jr. ficiency of more than 550 space operators in support of more than 150 communications, navigation and
surveillance satellites with their associated systems valued at more than $46 billion. Rainey holds a bachelor's degree in human development from Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo., and a master's degree in international relations and global studies from Troy University in Great Falls, Mont. His military decorations include the Air Force Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Force Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Combat Readiness Medal, National Defense Service Medal with bronze star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Air and Space Campaign Medal and Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with seven oak leaf clusters.
FREE CLASSIFIED ADS FOR MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES E-mail nsasp_pao_dlgr@navy.mil or Call (540) 653-8153
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Friday, July 6, 2012
The South Potomac Pilot
Shoreline: Giving back to the community and preserving natural resources Continued from page 1
protects the Navy's assets. Creating not just a rock shoreline, but a living shoreline, helps the natural resources of this area." Compliance with regulatory agencies and the unique geographical challenges posed by the eroding riverbank along NSF Indian Head and Stump Neck Annex make the living shoreline a viable, permanent solution, said Berry. "Many areas have eroding cliffs between 35-80 feet in height, and piling rocks along these areas would not prevent future erosion or protect infrastructure." Charmaine Dahlenburg, a project manager with the National Aquarium Conservation Team, spoke about some of the natural resources the shoreline will enhance. "The habitat is going to help clean the water and provide niches for our blue crabs, our striped bass, for migratory birds that pass through," she said. "So the community really benefits, whether you're a fisherman, whether you just like to eat crab or if you're a bird watcher." Bankey said the area of the Potomac River near Indian Head and Mattawoman Creek is relatively pristine and the shoreline restoration will help keep it that way. "It's clear water," she said. "There's tons of diversity.We see bald eagles every 10 minutes. "When the tide comes in, you'll see the fish that come to the marsh grasses. It's so rich and so diverse and so wonderful," she adds. "Being able to help that habitat and improve it, as well as help protect the resources of the Navy has been a great thing for everybody." Not long after this conversation, volunteers spotted an Atlantic needlefish near the breakwaters along with numerous schools of tiny minnows. A nearby bass fisherman cast along the structures, suggesting the effort was indeed proving beneficial to local wildlife. The sonar on a Maryland Department of Natural Resources boat used to ferry volunteers between work sites showed schools of larger fish in the vicinity. "The Navy has realized the potential [of the living shoreline] and has really used it in a significant way," said Bankey. "They're doing the right thing in many, many ways."
Good for the soul
Stewardship seems to be the primary motivation of the volunteers, though taking in the natural beauty of the area comes in a close second. Putting those feelings into action when the temperature is hovering around 100 degrees is no small task. "Most of them just want to give back to the community and give back to the environment," said Bankey. "You come out here and it's a lot of hard work, but at the end of the day you see the marsh that was created. You see
A flat of pickerel weed awaits these volunteers at NSF Indian Head's Stump Neck Annex. The plant provides habitat and forage for a variety of aquatic life. Volunteers saw firsthand some of the eroded shoreline the restoration project is intended to mitigate. Before the project, this sediment would have washed into the river. Now, the marshland created slows erosion and provides wildlife habitat.
A bass fisherman casts along the living shoreline off Stump Neck Annex. the fish. The bald eagles are flying and you know you're doing something good." One of last year's volunteers decided she liked the work so much, she decided to make it into a career. "I used to be with the Maryland Conservation Corps volunteer program, but I was hired on at the [National] Aquarium last year," said Laura Cattell Noll, a conservation technician. "I love these projects so much that I thought maybe I could come back." As she dug holes and planted, Cattell Noll was clearly working, but did not seem to think so. "I just like being outside, on the water and under the trees," she said. "I know these wetland grasses really
help to clean the water and that's important. It's a mission I'm committed to personally." An intern hoped to follow Cattell Noll's footsteps into a career. "Being an environmental science major, I'm really focused on conservation," said Lakiah Clark, a senior at Tuskegee University and a work study intern with the National Aquarium Conservation Team. "It's good to come out here and restore eroded land." Some of the volunteers are fulfilling a 10-month commitment to give back to their community. "It's what I enjoy doing," said Sara Decker, a volunteer with the Maryland Conservation Corps. "It's really nice to get out of the office to the outdoors. Helping the
Lakiah Clark, a senior at Tuskegee University and a work study intern with the National Aquarium Conservation Team, smiles as she digs a hole for native plants. environment is right up my alley. I get to bird watch while I work." Chuck Kohls, a retired Navy officer and volunteer, pulled no punches when he talked about what motivated him to volunteer. "If we don't do something about cleaning the [Chesapeake] Bay, it will become the world's largest cesspool," he said. "So we have to work and we all have to think about this environ-
ment. That's why I'm here. And you meet such wonderful people; the group is so good." Mary Sidlowski, a longtime volunteer who has spent many hours on the river bank, gave perhaps the most simple and comprehensive reason why she and others give their time and effort to make the living shoreline at Indian Head and Stump Neck a reality. "It's good for the soul."
Friday, July 6, 2012
CARPOOL/VANPOOL WANTED Van or Car pool desired from Fredericksburg or King George to Indian Head, Monday thru Friday with one RDO, prefer 7430, but hours can be negotiated. 703909-3380. Riders wanted to start a carpool from the Northern Neck (Lively/Lancaster), passing through Warsaw at 0605 and Montross at 0615, arriving at Dahlgren by 0700; leaving Dahlgren at 1600. Call Lea at 540653-6776 or 571-232-5412 (cell). From the Ferry Farm area to Dahlgren Bldg. 1500 area. Prefer early work hours. Call Mark, 540-653-2148. Riders wanted for van pool. Leaves from Richmond at Home Depot on Atlee-Elmont Rd. (exit # 86B off I-95) to Dahlgren. Call David at (540) 653-9203. Clinton, Md., to Dahlgren. Hours are flexible (0600 - 1700). Call Miranda at 703692-9590. Carpool/vanpool wanted from Montross area to Dahlgren. Can also take up to 3 or 4 riders from here if they would prefer me to drive. Call Doc at 252-670-6686. Early risers only.
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 540-653-8153.
FREDERICKSBURG RIDESHARING SERVICE 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. Go to www.gwregion.org/gwride connect.html.
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The South Potomac Pilot
Middle school students work with Navy engineers to solve problems with STEM skills By John Joyce NSWCDD Corporate Communications Middle school students used their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills to solve problems of Navy interest at the National Defense Education Program (NDEP) Virginia Demonstration Project (VDP) Summer Academy held on Naval Support Facility Dahlgren on June 25-29. More than 100 students joined their mentors - 19 Navy scientists and engineers from the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) - to work on STEM summer camp activities and projects impacting simulated naval robotic missions. "This is a wonderful opportunity for a middle school student to learn about and receive hands-on experience to as many STEM careers as possible in one week," said Jane Bachman, VDP STEM Dahlgren Academy Director. "If students learn of a new STEM career interest or confirm their current STEM career interest - it affords them the
Capt. Michael Smith, anticipate the students may one day use their STEM skills at Naval Warfare Center laboratories to design future technologies supporting U.S. warfighters and America's homeland defense and security. "In order to do the actual engineering work - the calculations and the interesting stuff working as part of a team - you really need to be grounded in the sciences," Smith told the students. "During the week, you'll be exposed to a bunch of different projects and we hope it will whet your appetite so that you will really want to be an engineer and get to do some of the cool things that we get to do here."
Destroying watermelons at Mach 6
U.S. Navy photo by John Joyce
STEM Summer Academy students program a robot to engage in a fictitious Navy operation. opportunity to begin making plans for the courses they need to take in their
high school journey." Navy officials, including NSWCDD commander
The NDEP VDP goal is to increase the attraction of the Navy's Warfare Centers and shipyards as an eventual place of employment for students participating in the program. Smith played videos featuring research, develop-
See School, Page 8
Fair winds and following seas to CMDCM Conner
James Yee is new Command Master Chief Center for Surface Combat Systems' (CSCS) Command Master Chief Kenneth Conner retired from the Navy on June 29, completing 26 years of active-duty military service. Originally from East St. Louis, Ill., Conner had served as the senior enlisted leader for CSCS at Naval Support Facility Dahlgren since 2009. His duties are assumed by Command Master Chief James Yee, who had served previously as Aegis Training and Readiness Center's (ATRC) senior enlisted leader since 2008. Conner's naval career began in March 1986 in San Diego, Calif. During his career, he served on USS Philippine Sea (CG 59), USS Princeton (CG 59), USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), and USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) prior to reporting to Dahlgren.
Conner
Yee
Conner, who recently received a master's degree in project management from American Intercontinental University, will remain in King George, Va. with his wife, the former Marie Hannick. They have three children, Brian, Melissa and Lisa and two granddaughters, Madison and Mia. Yee, a native of Unionville, Conn. enlisted in
the Navy in 1984 and attended basic training at Recruit Training Center, San Diego, Calif. Afterward, he attended Basic Electricity and Electronics and Aviation Electronics Class "A" School in Millington, Tenn. Following AT Class "A" School, he converted to Fire Control Technician Missiles and was assigned to USS Donald B. Beary (FF 1085) in
October 1984. Following a three-year tour, he then completed MK 86 Gun Fire Control Technician Class "C" School in Great Lakes, Ill. and was subsequently assigned to USS Peterson (DD 969) in September 1987 and then USS Briscoe (DD 977) in March 1991 as the Fire Control Division Leading Petty Officer. Yee was next assigned to Shore Intermediate Maintenance Activity, Norfolk, as the lead weapons' planner/estimator prior to transferring to USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) in August 1996. He was selected for advancement to Chief Petty Officer in 1998. He completed his tour on Vella Gulf as the Division Leading Chief for both Combat Systems Anti-Submarine and Strike Divisions and also
See Chief, Page 8
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Friday, July 6, 2012
The South Potomac Pilot
Base Happenings Dahlgren NSASP All-Star Softball Game & Home Run Derby
Come out and root your home base during the NSASP All-Star softball game on Wednesday, July 11, at 6 p.m. at Dahlgren's Duke Field. The event will also feature a Home Run Derby, give-a-ways, music and fun for the entire family. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Admission is free. Eligible patrons include all with base access. For more information please contact 540-653-8580 (NSF Dahlgren) and 301744-6649 (NSF Indian Head).
ASBP Blood Drive Schedule Next Drive July 10!
Armed Services Blood Program will hold a blood drive onTuesday, July 10, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Bldg. 1470 Conference Room. All blood collected benefits military members and their families at home, overseas, in harm's way and recovering from injuries. Give our troops the most precious gift of all, the gift of life. Give blood!
Dahlgren Commissary News
Dahlgren Commissary will hold a Seafood Road Show and Farmers Market on July 19 - 21 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Indian Head IH Spouses' Club "Treasures" Thrift Store Needs Your Donations!
Plan today to visit the Treasures Thrift Store, located at 12 Strauss Ave. next door to the USO.The store is open everyTuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donations of gently used items are currently being accepted. Want to earn up to $5 in free items from the thrift store every month?Volunteer! Stop by the thrift store during operating hours or email ihspouseclub@live.com for information.
To publish information on your event or program under "Base Happenings," contact NSASP Public Affairs at 540-6538153 or email jeron.hayes@navy.mil.
Master at Arms 1st Class Sarah Wood, Cpl. Kristofer Savoy, Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Vladimir Mejia and Cpl. Joseph Williams completed the Law Enforcement Bicycle Association basic mountain bike officer course taught by the Charles County Sheriff's Office.
To peddle, protect and serve By Andrew Revelos NSASP Staff Writer Four police officers assigned to Naval Support Activity South Potomac (NSASP) completed training June 12-15 designed to teach them how to use bicycles to protect and serve the community. Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Vladimir Mejia, Cpl. Kristopher Savoy, Cpl. Joseph Williams and Master at Arms 1st Class Sarah Wood completed the 32-hour, four-day Law Enforcement Bicycle Association Basic mountain bike officer course taught by police officers from the Charles County Sheriff's Office. The course included training about avoiding and treating bicycling injuries, nutrition, safety gear, firearms training and traffic enforcement. The group participated in 12-20 mile training rides every day and learned technical cycling skills such as emergency braking, accident prevention, power slide and cross over techniques. ForWood, a 19-year Navy veteran, the training was challenging but enjoyable, especially the rides that took the group through scenic St. Mary'sRiverStatePark."Thestuffthatwaschallengingwasmostlyfun.Theskillsetswerepretty tough, like trying to maneuver tight corners." Participating in the training alongside the "civilian" police officers was a joy for NSASP's newest bike officers. "As a Master at Arms, it's great to train with the civilians because you get to learn different techniques for dealing with incidents and you get to network," saidWood.
"I was kind of worried they would treat us differently since we were from the base but all the police officers treated us great and were interested in what we do here." Wood spoke highly of the officers from the Charles County Sheriff's Office who instructed the course. "The guys teaching the course, Cpl. Lee Potter and Sgt. Robert Vaughn, were really knowledgeable," she said. The use of bicycles for police work is common these days and Wood cited some of the ways bike officers increase the capabilities of their departments. "The bike is a valuable tool for law enforcement because it allows you more speed than on foot and the ability to chase on most any terrain," she said. "You can negotiate better on a bike in alleyways, narrow streets and trails, quietly and quickly." Wood also spoke about how bikes give police officers an advantage when it comes to interacting with the community they serve. "People feel more at ease with officers on bicycles." Wood's observations mirror those of Robert Brooks, chief of the NSASP Police Department. "Having officers on bikes provides the base with officer presence in a lot of areas which may not be accessible to vehicles," he said. "The officers also have a better opportunity to interface with the community on a more personal level." Brooks added that personnel onboard NSASP installations in Dahlgren and Indian Head can expect to see more NSASP bike officers on patrol this summer.
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
Capt. Peter Nette
Commanding Officer, NSA South Potomac
Gary R. Wagner
Public Affairs Officer, NSA South Potomac
of the Navy. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, 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
Deirdre Parry and Breton Helsel
NSA South Potomac Managing Editor
Andrew Revelos Staff Reporter
Copy/layout editors, The Gazette/ Comprint Military Publications
Friday, July 6, 2012
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The South Potomac Pilot
MWR Highlights Dahlgren Fitness Center NSASP All-Star Softball Game
Wednesday, July 11, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. Location: NSF Dahlgren, Duke Field Comeoutandrootyourhomebaseon!NSF Dahlgren vs NSF Indian Head and a home run derby.Give-a-ways,musicandfunfortheentire family. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Admission is free. Eligible patrons include all with base access. For more information please contact 540-653-8580 (NSF Dahlgren) and 301-744-6649 (NSF Indian Head).
Liberty Center Ocean City Beach Trip
July 14, 2012 at 8:00a.m. Spend time walking on the historic boardwalk, jet skiing, playing mini-golf or volleyball, or just laying out on the sand. Don't miss this opportunity! Cost: $5.00. Eligible patrons: E1 - E6 Single/Unaccompanied Active Duty Military only. For more information contact the Liberty Center at 540-653-7277.
Craftech Framing and Matting Class
July 11 & 18, 2112 at 4:30 p.m. In this 2 day workshop, learn how to mat and frame a piece of artwork.
No larger than 16x20, no oils or cross stitch. Cost $35.00 includes all materials. Class size 8. For more information contact Craftech 540653-1730oremailMelissa.B.Sullivan@navy.mil.
Picnic Fun Summer Basket Class
July 11- August 1, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. In this 4 week Wednesday evening class you will create several items to fill summer picnic basket. Cost &75.00 includes all material. Class size 10. For more information contact Craftech 540-653-1730 or email Melissa.B.Sullivan@navy.mil
Cannonball Lanes Bowling Center Scotch Doubles Tournament
July 7, 2012 at 6 p.m. Bring out your friend for this event. Must be 18 to bowl. Prizes for the top 3 places. For more information contact Cannonball Lanes Bowling Center at 540-653-7327.
Indian Head Aquatic Center
Dive In to Summer Fun!
The Aquatic Center offers open swim hours, lap swim, water aerobics, private party rentals and more! Stop by the Fitness Center between now and Memorial Day for more information or to purchase your pool passes.
Defenders of Freedom Appreciation Day at Six Flags 1st 5,000 Tickets Include Free Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert The Naval District Washington Fleet & Family Readiness Program would like to show its appreciation for the men and women who daily support and defend this great country. We are inviting all military and DoD personnel to a day at Six Flags on Saturday, Sept. 22, 2012 at a drastically reduced rate. Ticket prices are $18 per person if purchased through Aug. 16, and $20 per person if purchased after Aug. 16. Ticket price includes entrance into Six Flags from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., parking and -- for the first 5,000 paying customers -- a free concert featuring LYNYRD SKYNYRD which starts at 7 p.m. Join your colleagues within Naval District Washington for a unique opportunity to participate in a day of fun at Six Flags America. This private event, which is available to military & DoD personnel and their guests only, is our way of saying thank you for your service and efforts. Once again, the first 5,000 tickets sold will receive tickets to the amusement park and concert; after the first 5,000 tickets are sold the price includes the amusement park only! All Tickets are nonrefundable. The rain date for this event will be Saturday, Sept. 29, 2012 (without the concert). Tickets can be purchased at any Naval District Washington ITT office. For more information or to purchase your tickets contact the NSASP ITT offices at: NSF Dahlgren - 540-653-8785 NSF Indian Head - 301-744-4850
After Memorial Day call 301-744-4616 and the pool staff will be able to assist you.
Dahlgren Movie Theater
Dive In Movie at the Pool
July 12, 2012 at the Aquatics Center Come in and swim at 7:30 pm, movie starts at dusk. Bring a float and watch a movie in the pool. All movies are G rated. Open to all eligible patrons. FREE.
Library
Summer Reading Program at the General Library "Reading is so Delicious"
Join us for a summer full of reading fun! All participants will receive a t-shirt and a bag of goodies. Program will be held on Mondays from 4 pm to 5 pm continuing through August 13. Stop by the Library for more information.
Fitness Center
Longest Drive at the Driving Range
Wednesday, July 25 from 11 am to 1 pm Top two longest drives of the final round wins a prize! Open to all eligible patrons, Register at the Fitness Center.
Beat the Heat 5K
July 18, 2012 Beat the heat and come run in the morning. Race begins outside the Fitness Center at 0700, registeranytimepriortotherace. $5forcivilians, FREE for military. Open to all eligible patrons.
540-653-7336 Hours of Operation Friday: 7 p.m. Showing Saturday: 7 p.m. Showing Price of Shows $5 Civilian, $4 Active Duty, Retired & Reserve Mil E7 & above & their family members with ID, $2.50 E1-E6 and below and their family members with ID, $2 Child (6-11), Free - Child (5 and under). Movie shown in 3D will cost an additional $1 to ticket price. Friday, July 6th - Men in Black 3 (2D) Rated PG-13 - 103 min Saturday, July 7th - Chernobyl Diaries Rated R - 86 min Friday, July 13th - Men in Black 3 (3D) Rated PG-13 - 1033 min Saturday, July 14th Snow White and the Huntsman Rated PG-13 - 127 min
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Friday, July 6, 2012
The South Potomac Pilot
Rear Admiral Tom Copeman meets Sailors, command leaders Navy Legislative Chief visits Dahlgren By Chris Cleaver and Kimberly Lansdale Rear Adm. Tom Copeman, the Navy's chief of Legislative Affairs, spent a day meeting Navy leaders and Sailors at Naval Support Facility Dahlgren on June 13. The admiral began his day at the Center for Surface Combat Systems (CSCS) and Aegis Training and Readiness Center (ATRC), touring the school and gaining a better understanding of how it teaches Sailors to operate and maintain combat systems. CSCS oversees 14 learning sites, which includes ATRC, and provides 1,000 courses a year to more than 50,000 Sailors. "The leaders and trainers at CSCS and ATRC do a tremendous job," said Copeman. "The deployed environment is complex: more systems, more demands, more requirements. The training provided here ensures our Sailors are ready to meet these challenges."
During the briefs, Copeman stated that, "Many of our resources will become more austere in the future. However, training is where we can influence the system and make a tremendous difference." Copeman will be promoted to the rank of vice admiral and replace Vice Adm. Richard W. Hunt as commander of Naval Surface Forces and Pacific Fleet Naval Surface Forces next month. He has served as the Navy's chief of Legislative Affairs since July 2010. Chris Cleaver serves as public affairs officer for NAMDC, and Kimberly Lansdale is public affairs officer for CSCS/ATRC.
Capt. Ian Hall, ATRC's commanding officer, provided the admiral with an in-depth tour of the facility, including observing students in labs and classrooms, while explaining how Sailors are effectively taught through a blended learning solution that includes standard classrooms, hands-on labs, simulations, as well as computer-based and interactive courseware training. Following his visit to ATRC, Copeman met with members of Navy Air and Missile Defense Command (NAMDC), the Navy's primary authority and lead organization for naval joint and coalition integrated air and missile defense matters. The command overviewed the myriad products they provide to the warfighter including the innovative training provided to Sailors on the waterfront and in the classroom. Also overviewed was the support provided to the Fleet during the recent failed foreign missile test.
U.S. Navy photo by Daryl Roy
During his tour of classrooms and labs at Aegis Training and Readiness Center, Rear Adm. Tom Copeman, Navy's chief of Legislative Affairs, talks with Fire Controlman 3rd Class Ashley Weber about the training at ATRC. During his time at Dahlgren, Copeman also met with the leadership at Navy Air and Missile Defense Command.
Community Notes Indian Head Registration Available for 5-Star Athletics Softball Camp
The Nanjemoy Community Center is offering a Softball Camp for ages 8-18 hosted by 5 Star Athletics, LLC. It is never the wrong time to sharpen your skills and get a step up on the competition. Camp will be held July 9-12 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cost is $160. Camp will focus on all aspects of the game: throwing, catching, hitting, fielding, base running, and pitching. 5 Star Athletics strives to use the latest and most effective skills and drills used by Olympic coaches and athletes.These are presented in a positive and creative teaching style. For more information, contact the Nanjemoy Community Center Coordinator at 301-246-9612. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.
Sunset Concert Festival at O'Donnell Lake Restaurant Park in St. Charles
St. Charles Companies presents Free Friday Night Concerts through Aug. 31 at O'Donnell Lake Restaurant Park in St. Charles, Md. Each Friday offers great family fun and entertainment! Concerts feature a variety of local artists and musical genres, beginning at 7 p.m. and ending at dusk. Free parking for all attendees. Bring blankets or chairs and enjoy the lakefront setting. Coolers permitted; no alcohol or glass containers. The O'Donnell Lake Restaurant Park is located at the intersection of St. Patrick's Drive and Smallwood Drive West in St. Charles, across from the movie theater and St. Charles Towne Center. Sponsored by the St. Charles Companies. Learn more about the St. Charles Companies at stcharlesmd.com or facebook.com/stcharlesmd. For more information, contact Craig Renner at 301-843-8600 or crenner@stcharlesmd.com. Summer Concert Schedule: June 29 - U.S. Navy Cruisers - Rock July 6 - John O'Loughlin and the Blarney Stones Band Irish Traditional July 13 - Jennifer Cutting and OCEAN Celtic Band Contemporary Celtic July 20 - Higher Hands - Contemporary Hip-Hop & Funk July 27 - The Kajun Kelley Band - Rock & Alternative
Sotterley Colonial Farm Summer Mini Camps at Sotterley Plantation
Spaces are available for this year's Summer Mini Camps - "Sotterley Colonial Farm." Camps will be held July 9 - 11, grades 3 - 5; July 16 - 18, grades 6 - 8; and July 23 - 25, Grades 3 - 5. Students will have the opportunity to learn about Sotterley's history as a farming community in creative and fantastically fun ways! They will work on team projects, hike in the morning, visit animals, experience nature, learn and experience foodways of the colonial period, learn about tools, planting, eco-system, and animal husbandry and learn how the river and the tidewater was and is still unique. Groups are limited to 25 students. Tuition: $95. Tuition for children of Sotterley Members: $85. Registration is now open. Print registration form directly from our website: www.sotterley.org.
County Seeks Images for "Photo of the Week" Program
Charles County Government now features a "Photo of the Week" section on its new and improved website (www.CharlesCountyMD.gov). Citizens are encouraged to help us celebrate Charles County by showing off all the beauty our hometown has to offer. Each week, a random image will be selected from among all submitted entries. The selected photo will be posted on the homepage of the website, and also placed on the Charles County Government Facebook page and online photo gallery. For a chance to have your photo featured as the "Photo of theWeek," e-mail MediaPromotions@CharlesCounty.org. Entries must include the full name of the individual submitting the photo, location, and brief photo description. The "Photo of the Week" program is not a contest. Photos are randomly selected, and must be high resolution. All entries must adhere to program rules. Complete "Photo of theWeek" program rules are available at www.CharlesCountyMD.gov.
National Night Out Event to be Held in Nanjemoy
The Nanjemoy Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary and the Nanjemoy Community Center are partnering to bring you the "National Night Out" crime and drug prevention event on Tuesday, Aug. 7, from 6-8 p.m. You and your family will enjoy an evening filled with entertainment, free food, games, activities, door prizes, and much more!
There will also be a "School Supply Give Away" for schoolaged children. The "29th Annual National Night Out" is a unique crime/drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of TownWatch. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. Join your community at the Nanjemoy Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary for this wonderful event. For more information, contact the Nanjemoy Community Center Coordinator at 301-246-9612 Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711, or Relay Service TDD: 800-735-2258.
Dahlgren Inaugural Exhibit Opening for Dahlgren Heritage Museum
You are invited to a special unveiling ceremony for an inaugural Dahlgren Heritage Museum exhibit at the University of MaryWashington's Dahlgren Center for Education and Research campus on July 25 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Thanks to the hard work of the folks at the Dahlgren History Project, University of Mary Washington and EPI Colorspace, we are proud to invite you to what will be the first of a series of museum exhibit openings. The event starts at 4 p.m. with a light reception followed by a special panel discussion on theWomen in Science and Technology at Dahlgren at 5 p.m. There will also be plenty of time to stroll through the halls of the beautiful campus building to see the newly installed historic displays. Advance registration is requested. Visit http://dahlgren.umw.edu to register.You can't miss the link on the left hand side of the page.
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Dahlgren and the Potomac River By Dr. Rob Gates
The Potomac River was the main reason the Navy came to Dahlgren in 1918, but the river has been part of King George history for much longer. The Algonquian-speaking natives used the Potomac primarily as a food source. In various seasons, they harvested fish, crabs, oysters and migratory birds like geese and ducks. The edges of the rivers were rimmed with villages when John Smith sailed to Little Falls (near the modern-day Chain Bridge) in 1608. The Potomac was not a transportation corridor of major significance during the early English settlements. It took almost a century after John Smith's voyage up the river for English plantations to be established on the Potomac River. In the colonial era, cities developed where Virginia's large navigable rivers crossed the fall line. Alexandria developed near the fall line of the Potomac and the risk-taking approach of the Alexandria merchants led to the city becoming such a major port. Col. Rice Hooe of Barnesfield began operating a ferry on the Potomac in 1720. It ran from the Mathias Point area (near the present Barnesfield Park, Gov. HarryW. Nice Memorial Bridge, and the future site of the Dahlgren Heritage Museum) to Mrs. Laidlaw's Landing on the Maryland shore. Other landings included Lower Cedar Point, Pope's Creek, Port Tobacco and Nanjemoy Landing (now Riverside). A ferry ran at this location until 1885. Hooe's Ferry was part of the shortest route between the capitals of Maryland andVirginia and served as a principal link in the journeys of many early Americans, including George Washington, George Mason, and other
Wilson Line's S.S. Mt. Vernon, depicted in an illustration most likely from the 1940s. Founding Fathers. Washington regularly used Hooe's Ferry when he visited family in Westmoreland County. Between 1861 and 1864, almost all ferry travel was disrupted by the Civil War. Steamboat competition began in 1865, and soon there was not enough local business to maintain regular ferries. By 1928, a commercial ferry began operating and connected Dahlgren and Morgantown, Md. Steamboats also have a long history on the Potomac. A biweekly steamboat run began on the Potomac in 1829. Steamboats often served as a water link between railroad (or stage) lines. The Potomac Steamboat Company served as the direct water link between the Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac Railroad (at Aquia Creek) and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (at Washington, D.C.) from 1845 until 1872. A number of steamboat lines operated between Alexandria and Norfolk and Baltimore. The Baltimore Steamboat line, for example, ran the steamer Harry Randall on three trips
S.S. Southland (1908) was operated by Norfolk and Washington Steamboat Company between Washington, D.C., Norfolk, and Old Point Comfort, Va. per week from Alexandria down the Potomac in the 1870s. A Potomac River steamboat, the Wawaset, was involved in what has been called one of the worst maritime disasters on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. On Aug. 8, 1873, the vessel caught fire and sank in the Potomac near King George County with
the loss of more than 80 lives. (Note: The wreckage of theWawaset was located in early June 2010 by Navy divers.) Other steamboat lines ran daylong excursions and carried passengers to Potomac River resort destinations, such as Colonial Beach, the "Las Vegas of the Potomac;" Fairview Beach; the amusement park at Marshall Hall, Md.; and the hotel and amusement park at Chapel Point, Md. The opening of the Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge in 1940 brought an abrupt end to more than 220 years of ferries and steamboats on the Potomac River. There is also a history of naval activity on the Potomac River, but that will have to be told in a future column. Author Dr. Rob Gates served as technical director for Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, and at Dahlgren as Head of the Strategic andWeapons Control Systems Department for NSWC Dahlgren Division prior to his retirement from federal service in 2010. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Dahlgren Heritage Foundation.
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School: Inspiring our next generation of scientific leaders Continued from page 3
ment, testing and evaluation conducted by NSWCDD that included unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned surface vehicles, Tomahawk and ballistic missiles launched from submarines, littoral combat ship gun systems, and the electromagnetic rail gun. As students watched a video clip, Smith explained how rail gun works. "It's a gun that uses electricity to push a bullet out of the barrel without using gun powder," said Smith. "It has two copper rails and if you put several million amps through those rails with a bullet inside, it will push it out very fast - much faster than you can get with a gun charge. Here's one of the projectiles we shot. You can see how hot it is because of the speed. The friction of the air is making it hot and it's going about mach five or six at this point." As an explosion filled the video screen when the projectile hit a watermelon target, a surprised student ex-
claimed, "You hit a watermelon at mach six!" Immediately after the brief, students began designing, building and testing their own technological projects. The Navy mentors are working with 18 teachers from five Virginia middle school systems throughout the week to challenge students with scenarios mimicking real engineering problems. "It is amazing to watch the excitement of the kids when they complete a mission, or when they learn a new concept," said Aimee Ketner, an NSWCDD Asymmetric Defense Systems Department engineer. "I am excited to provide the kids with my perspective and present them with information on how to pursue their interests." "Getting our kids at the middle-school age to see the fun of discovery and critical thinking is the right step to getting them to want to learn and do more," said Thomas Holland, an NSWCDD Engagement Systems Department senior engineer. "One of the students I mentored once told me that the
program, 'made me want to know about things I never wanted to know about before.' You can't beat that. Inspiring our next generation of scientific leaders is a way for me to give back and I am very proud to be part of this effort."
Technology and team building emphasized
The program teams up teachers with practicing scientists and engineers such as Ketner and Holland from the mentor-rich environment at the Naval Warfare Centers. During the school year, science and math themes featuring robotics problems are integrated throughout the curriculum. Moreover, the College of William and Mary impacted VDP and the summer camp by developing a curriculum for students who learn about STEM at military bases and providing training to Navy Warfare Center mentors. NDEP's VDP process is more than students learning how to program robots or build, assemble and demonstrate the projects. It's also about team building and is all inclusive. "It is important to provide encouragement and stimulation to our young people regarding the field of science," said Bachman, an NSWCDD Human Performance in Simulation Lead Engineer. "The working environment experience where students can sense the why, what and how things are done through interaction with scientists and engineers can benefit them when making their future career decisions." NDEP VDP originated under the Office of Naval Research (ONR) N-STAR (Naval Research - Science and Technology for America's Readiness), a science and technology workforce development program launched in 2004 by the Office of Naval Research. It was initiated to show a diversity of pre-teens and teens that math, science and engineering are fascinating, fun and socially relevant. Since its inception, VDP's ultimate goal has been to establish educational outreach programs at other Navy research and development centers throughout the country. The initiative could eventually expand beyond the Navy and evolve into a national demonstration project encompassing all Department of Defense laboratories in a sustained effort to secure the long-term competitiveness of America's science and technology workforce by hooking more kids on math and science at an earlier age. As a result, the number of students earning university degrees in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology is expected to exponentially increase.
Chief
Continued from page 3
became the Combat Systems Department LCPO. From April 2001 through April 2004, Yee was assigned to Center for Naval Leadership, Little Creek, Va. as the officer in charge of the Dam Neck Detachment facilitating the Petty Officer Second Class Leadership training course. He was selected for advancement to Senior Chief Petty Officer in April 2004. From September 2004 to March 2008, CMC Yee was assigned as the Combat Systems Fire Control Division and the Combat Systems Maintenance Manager aboard USS John Paul Jones (DDG 53) and was advanced to Master Chief Petty Officer. Yee then attended the Senior Enlisted Academy before reporting to ATRC in May 2008 where he filled the Senior Enlisted Leader position. He was selected into the Command Master Chief Program in 2010 and was assigned as the Command Master Chief aboard USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) from August 2010 to April 2012.
For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area, visit
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Second-Generation Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System completes second successful intercept flight test By Missile Defense Agency Office of Public Affairs The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and U.S. Navy Sailors on board the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) successfully conducted a flight test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system, resulting in the intercept of a separating ballistic missile target over the Pacific Ocean by the Navy's newest missile defense interceptor missile, the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block 1B. At 11:15 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time, June 26 (5:15 am EDT June 27), the target missile was launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility, located on Kauai, Hawaii. The target flew on a northwesterly trajectory towards a broad ocean area of the Pacific Ocean. Following target launch, Lake Erie detected and tracked the missile with its onboard AN/SPY-1 radar. The ship, equipped with the second-generation Aegis BMD 4.0.1 weapon system, developed a fire control solution and launched the SM-3 Block IB missile. Lake Erie continued to track the target and sent trajectory information to the SM-3 Block IB missile in-flight. The SM-3 maneuvered to a point in space, as designated by the fire control solution, and released its kinetic warhead. The kinetic warhead acquired the target, diverted into its path, and, using only the force of a direct impact, engaged and destroyed the threat in a hit-to-kill intercept. This test event was the second consecutive successful intercept test of the SM-3 Block IB missile and the second-generation Aegis BMD 4.0.1 weapon system. The first successful SM-3 Block IB intercept occurred on May 9, 2012. The latest intercept is a critical accomplishment for the second phase of the President's European Phased Adaptive Approach consisting of the SM-3 Block 1B interceptor employed in an Aegis Ashore system in Romania in 2015. Initial indications are that all components performed as designed resulting in a very accurate intercept. This was the 23rd successful intercept in 28 flight test firings for the Aegis BMD program. Across all Ballistic Missile Defense System programs, it is the 54th successful hit-to-kill intercept in 68 flight tests since 2001. Aegis BMD is the sea-based midcourse component of the MDA's Ballistic Missile Defense System and is designed to intercept and destroy short to intermediaterange ballistic missile threats. The MDA and the U.S. Navy cooperatively manage the Aegis BMD Program. U.S. Navy photo
A Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block 1B interceptor is launched from the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Erie (CG 70) for the second time during a Missile Defense Agency test in the Pacific Ocean. The SM-3 Block 1B successfully intercepted a short-range ballistic missile target that had been launched from the Pacific Missile Range Facility, located on Kauai, Hawaii.
JWAC military join Girl Scouts, others in beach cleanup By Steve Moore JWAC Public Affairs Three military members of the Joint Warfare Analysis Center (JWAC) helped pick up trash along the Potomac River shoreline in Colonial Beach,Va. as part of an organized beach cleanup effort last month. Yeoman 2nd Class Jeffrey S. Johnson, Air Force Staff Sgt. Chadd A. Russell, and Air Force Tech. Sgt. Adam A. Yankush joined more than 100 local volunteers, including Girl Scouts, to clean up a three-
mile section of shoreline. In all, they collected about 50 pounds of trash during six hours of work. "Aside from the dirty diapers, this was fun," said Tech. Sgt. Adam A. Yankush. "This was a rewarding experience helping to preserve our environment." The clean up was part of the second annual beach clean-up day held this year on June 2 at the same time with the Chesapeake Bay clean up day. The Colonial Beach Yacht Center and the Colonial Beach Historical Society co-sponsored the event to preserve the town's coastline and waterways.
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Friday, July 6, 2012
Friday, July 6, 2012
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