UNDERWAY R E A L
.
L I F E
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S E A
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S T O R I E S
The gear that could very well save your life
The latest diet craze and its Absent benefits
ORDER UP!
A young writer’s dreams become nonfiction
Is your body keeping secrets from you?
STAYING on your khakis’ good side
TOP
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ADP’s
DENNIS ADAMS FILLS A TALL ORDER
Letter from the Editor S Dear Readers,
ome of us are new to the adventures of deployment, but for those who have been here for a few years it feels like last deployment never really ended. When week five feels like month five it’s easy to fall into the comforts of complacency and melancholy. A lot of the pep talks I’ve been hearing haven’t helped either (I don’t know about anyone else, but ‘This is what we signed up for’ is quickly becoming my least favorite phrase). I believe the best way to keep your spirits up is to keep it real. Yes, it sucks that we are out again and it’s going to be a long eight months, but there’s also some less obvious light on the horizon to keep your eye on. We’ve got a nice stop over in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia before jetting over to Phuket, Thailand and UW has outlined some of the awesome tours MWR is offering while we’re there. We’re also featuring a CS1 who didn’t let his responsibilities to the Navy stop him from opening a successful restaurant overseas and an MC3 who still found time to write a book and record an album this year; a reminder that being in the Navy doesn’t have to stop you from achieving your dreams. We’re also highlighting a lot of other Sailors who are doing awesome things every day aboard Stennis. Hard times come and go just like the good, but how we handle this challenge will define our character. We at UW understand that times are tough, but want to make sure you remember that there is still light at the end of every tunnel; even the ones that take eight months to pass through. -Kathleen
UNDERWAY USS John C. Stennis
Commanding Officer Capt. Ronald Reis Executive Officer Capt. Jeff Graf Command Master Chief CMDCM Stan Jewett
Media Department
Public Affairs Officer Lt. Cmdr. Zachary Harrell Deputy Public Affairs Officer Lt. j.g. Jesus Uranga Media Dept. LCPO MCCS Alan Monyelle Media Dept. LPO MC2 Kathleen O’Keefe
UNDERWAY Magazine
Editor-in-Chief Lt. Cmdr. Zachary Harrell Editor MC2 Kathleen O’Keefe Creative Director MCSN Justin Lawrence Director of Photography MC3 Kenneth Abbate Contributers MC2 Josh Keim MC2 Lex Wenberg MC2 Jamie Hawkins MC2 John Hetherington MC3 Claire Farin MC3 Grant Wamack MC3 Chelsy Alamina MC3 Destiny Cheek MC3 Kenneth Abbate
A special thank you to all those who let us tell your stories to the crew and the fleet.
1
UNDERWAY is an authorized publication for the crew members of USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Contents herein are not necessarily the views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy or the Commanding Officer of Stennis. Underway is edited, prepared and provided by the JCS media department. All news releases, photos or information for publication in the Underway must be submitted to the Public Affairs Office (3-180-0-Q). All submissions are edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity and conformance to style. The staff reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.
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Volume 01 Issue 03 September 2012 Edition
26
contents S
TAPLES
7 24
F
3
Sea Bag
Sinking superstitions, boot showdown, and the top 5 things ADP wants you to know.
FIT FOR DUTY
18
oN THE RADAR
ASK THE LPO
29
IN TOUCH
9
ORDER UP
What secrets does your body hold? Plus we question the benefits of the latest diet craze.
You’ve got the questions; we find the answers.
EATURES
25
Staying on your Khakis’ good side.
6
GEARED UP
We take a look at the gear that may very well save your life.
19
OVERSEAS
15
RatShack
A look into the tours MWR has to offer for Kota Kinabalu and Phuket.
The ins and outs of an AMCROSS letter.
Dennis Adams fills a tall order.
Portable Communications; the guys who fix your bricks.
Q&A When a young writer’s dreams become non-fiction.
2
seabag
Sinking Superstition
Story by MC2 Kathleen O’keefe
Though the days of the drunken Sailor have withered and died along with people’s tolerance of them, the image of the tattooed Sailor truly hasn’t. Unfortunately some symbols, like the anchor, have transitioned from the telltale sign of a Sailor to a trendy stamp that some girl got tattooed on her wrist because she thought it was “pretty.” Fear not! Fortune has it there are still plenty of esoteric nautical references out there to dedicate a piece of your arm to. Take for instance, the rooster and the pig. Back in the days when shipwrecks were as common as days Stennis has spent out to sea, it was often reported that wooden crates containing chickens and pigs would continue to float long after the vessel had slipped beneath the waves. Sometimes these crates would even wash ashore with their inhabitants still alive. Sailors then adopted the practice of getting the buoyant critters inked onto their feet and ankles, believing it would prevent them from drowning. Though the more modern life vest has replaced the tattoo as the Navy’s lifesaver of choice, the tradition never really died out. This tattoo isn’t as trendy as an anchor or as cute as a sparrow, so if you see someone sporting it then you’ve probably got a real salt in your sights; or maybe a hip farmer.
Photo of ABEAN Chad Johnston.
HN JAIMIE JOSEPH
My RELAX playlist Carley Rae Jepson “Call Me Maybe”
Usher
HM3 Tobias and I used to sing it in the halls through medical. Eventually everyone would sing along.
Shania Twain
Reminds me of many nights dancing with RP3 Lickliter.
3
Jack Johnson
“Sitting, Waiting, Wishing” “Springsteen”
“Oasis”
Queen
Chris Brown
Eric Church
Wonderwall
“Bohemian Rhapsody”
“Lets Go”
Always gets me pumped to be able to clean for an ENTIRE hour during MCH.
“Don’t Wake Me Up”
“Climax”
“Man! I Feel Like a Woman”
Calvin Harris ft. Neyo
This song reminds me of North Carolina and the great times I had with family and friends.
Fun
“Some Nights”
I love, love, love Jack Johnson. His songs always put me in a good mood and help me make it through the day. Makes me think of all the FUN that I’ve had over the last several years, and the fun nights to come.
These boots were made for walking
Story by MC3 Chelsy Alamina
Ever wonder why the Navy issues separate boots to Sailors who work on the flight deck? Crew members on the flight deck work out in the elements more than those who work below decks. While the most obvious difference between the two is the comfort level (which the flight deck boot takes the trophy for), there are actually many other reasons why many have ditched the regular boot and embraced the flight deck boot. The soles of the flight deck boots are significantly thicker than those of your standard Navy-issued boot; this ensures the wear and tear on the boot is kept to a minimum. It also allows for more shock absorption while simultaneously giving the wearer more support. In addition to durability, the flight deck boot’s heat resistance is
top
things ADP wants you to know 1
When you come down for a profile reset, make sure you have the name of the last computer you logged in to.
3
Check your pockets when you come down for a password reset; CAC cards are required.
2
If you call for a profile reset, be sure that you log off before you call.
4
Trying to get a new account? Make sure you fill out the entire form, and complete the NKO course Information Assurance version 10.
5
ADP doesn’t send out e-mails as part of a sinister plan to overflow your inbox, so take the time to read them.
Photography by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
5
vital. With jet exhaust, heated non-skid and the possibility for a fire, the boot is designed to protect its user from high temperatures. This is accomplished through the thick lining inside the boot and the tough leather coating. While fire is a major concern, its opposite element can also be hazardous. The tongue of the flight deck boot, which is stitched from all sides, is designed to keep water from flooding into the boot while the tongue of the regular boot is too long and does not produce the same results. Even though both boots look similar to the untrained eye, a closer study of their properties will reveal just how different they really are.
4
I
CHLAMYDIA AMY 5
No glove? No love.
geared up (A) A sled? No this is not a piece of
recreational winter sports equipment. The Reeves Stretcher is designed to hold injured victims still during transport. $495.00
Emergency Medical Team
This month we get to know the gear that the Emergency Medical team grabs when responding to a medical emergency.
(A)
(G) 1..2..3..Clear! If your heart has
decided to take a time out medical always carries a Defribrilator “2011“ to jump start your body. $189.95
(B) With more gadgets than Batman’s utility belt, the Medical Response Team kit has every tool needed to save your life and the lives of others, including a pair of scissors that can cut your wedding ring in half! $475.95
(B)
(F) Need a pick me up in the morn-
ing? Probably not the most orthodox way. Epinephrine is adrenaline administered into your thigh. $73.55
(G)
(C) (D)
shouldn’t try to blow up your basketball with it, the Amby Bag is designed to provide direct oxygen and support your airway. $10.95
(E) (D) In case you’ve decided to stop breathing, the Portable Oxygen Cylinder is there to make sure you get enough. $59.95
(E) An intravenous solution used to replenish blood loss or dehydration most commonly known as Sodium Chloride $2.80
Photography by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
(C) While you probably
(F)
fit for duty
GLuten Truth
Story by MC2 Joshua Keim
Take a look down the aisles of any grocery store nowadays and you’re likely to find the shelves lined with products labeled gluten-free. Gluten-free products are more popular than ever and the gluten-free category has grown by 28 percent from 2004 to 2008, according to the market research group Packaged Facts. Over the past few years sales have multiplied, mostly due to the growing need of people with celiac disease – which, according to a new study published in the July 2012 issue of the American Journal of Gastroenterology, is four times more common today than it was 50 years ago. However, many people without a medical diagnosis are choosing gluten-free diets because they think it’s healthier. But is saying no to gluten really necessary? According to the results of a Mayo Clinic literature review published in July’s issue of Gastroenterology, latest estimates conclude roughly 1.8 million Americans have celiac disease – a digestive disorder in which the small intestine reacts to gluten, damaging the small intestine and preventing it from absorbing nutrients – though 1.4 million of them have not been diagnosed. Additionally, 1.6 million people who do not have celiac disease still follow gluten-free diets. So where along the line did sensibility trump sense on the matter of gluten consumption? Gluten is not toxic to the general population, and it must be made clear before a possible health problem becomes a social health problem. “Based on the current science, I do not recommend gluten-free diets for those without
6 medium Strawberries
20 cal. 7
+
1 large apple
110 cal.
+
a medical need,” said Cmdr. Blaine Powell, senior medical officer aboard Stennis. “And I’m not sure people are more likely to get celiac disease, but rather the public is more educated about the condition and we have developed better testing procedures.” A gluten-free diet is a diet that excludes foods containing gluten, a protein found in
Senior Medical Officer Cmdr. Powell
“Of the studies I have reviewed, there appears to be no scientific basis for benefits of a gluten-free diet if you are not gluten sensitive or have celiac disease.” wheat, barley, rye, malts and triticale. It is used as a food additive in the form of flavoring, stabilizing or thickening agent. A gluten-free diet is the only medically accepted treatment for celiac disease, which causes symptoms ranging from chronic fatigue, diarrhea and bloating to headaches, abdominal pain and unexplained anemia.
8 oz Garlic Mashed potatoes
256 cal.
+
4 oz. of carrots
47 cal.
+
According to Powell, gluten-free dieting is necessary only for those suffering from celiac disease or gluten intolerance or sensitivity. And members of the general population who want to delve into the craze may also find its benefits rewarding; returning to foods that are good for you – fruits, vegetables, rice, corn, etc. But giving up gluten when you don’t have to for medical reasons is unnecessary. And if you don’t spend time preparing your own gluten-free meals, you may be giving up vital nutrients in the process since many prepackaged gluten-free products do not provide you with all the nutrients you need. For those without a medical need for a specialty diet, the best diet for becoming and remaining healthy is one that includes foods from all the primary food groups: fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, oils, and low-fat diary. “A well balanced diet that includes 20-30% healthy fat, 30% protein and moderate in carbohydrates should help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight,” said Powell. “I also recommend fiber and calcium intake.” Regardless of your weight-loss, fitness or health-related goals, gluten-free dieting is not the best option if not medically necessary. And if following faddish diets is your thing, there are plenty available to you which may be more convenient and less costly. For more information on healthy eating habits, contact the medical department or visit www.med. navy.mil.
8 1/2 oz. Baked Chicken Breast
260 cal.
+
3 oz of cooked corn
77 cal.
=
A Gluten Free Dinner
770
THE
HUMAN BODY’S The three things pregnant women dream of most during their first trimester are frogs, worms, and potted plants. Pregnant women release more hormones than the average person. These hormones can cause mood swings, cravings, and can even affect the types and vividness of dreams they have. The most common are these types, but they also dream of water and giving birth. Often times they also have violent or sexually charged dreams.
It is not possible to tickle yourself.
Don’t believe us? Give it a shot and we’ll try not to say we told you so. Your brain already knows it’s going to happen, so the key element is missing: surprise!
If saliva can’t dissolve something, you can’t taste it.
If you don’t have saliva in your mouth to dissolve your food, or anything else for that matter, you won’t be able to taste it.
The surface area of the human lung is equal to that of a tennis court.
We don’t recommend you try proving this one.
SECRETS
The focusing muscles of the eyes move around 100,000 times a day. To give your legs the same workout, you would need to walk 80km (50 miles) every day.
In 30 minutes, the average body gives off enough heat (combined) to bring a half gallon of water to boil.
While it may not be the most convenient way to cook your ramen, at least you know you’re packing enough heat to get the job done.
Humans can survive longer without food than sleep.
As long as there is a water source nearby, humans can last around one to two months without food (depending on body fat storage and other variables). People who are sleep deprived, however, will begin to experience drastic changes to their personality and mental state. The longest recorded time someone has remained awake before death is 11 days.
A single blood cell takes 60 seconds to make a complete circuit of the human body.
Blood travels out of your heart at 3ft per second, meaning that blood travels 2 mph on average. The real amazing thing is that your circulatory system, if laid out end to end, would stretch 60,000 miles. That’s more than twice the circumference of the earth! Information gathered from www.bnsprogram.com and www.science-facts.com
8
sTORY BY MC3 Grant Wamack Photos provided by CS1 Dennis Adams 9
CS1 Dennis Adams had a dream of bringing a bigger burger to Sailors in the land of the rising sun. What he didn’t expect was to change even the way the Japanese viewed burgers altogether.
10
People Love it! They bite into a burger and literally say oh-my-god.
11
CS1 Dennis Adams
In Japan, a Sailor walks around searching for American cuisine; a little piece of home. Five minutes from base, he stumbles across a small restaurant called O.M.G Burgers. An American flag hangs outside, and a number of exotic motorcycles line the storefront. The smell of sautéed onions and freshly cooked cheeseburgers drift out the door, compelling the Sailor to come inside. He sits down and orders a Signature Hamburger. In no time the oversized burger comes out and he takes a hearty bite. Juice drips down his mouth; he sets the burger aside and says, “Ohmy-God, this is amazing.” This is a typical reaction Culinary Specialist 1st Class Dennis Adams saw daily at his restaurant, O.M.G Burgers, which is tucked away in the heart of Aikawa, Kanagawa, Japan. “People love it,” said Adams. “They bite
into a burger and literally say oh-my-God.” With retirement looming on the horizon, a relatively young Adams had no idea what he wanted to do with his life. The only thing he knew for certain was he had to do anything but grow complacent. “Some people say that after you retire, if you have nothing to do you fade away,” said Adams. “I sincerely believe in that. If you have nothing lined up after retirement, you become lost. You’re longing to go back into the military. This is what drives me to want this more and more.” That drive led to a couple months of hardcore research where Adams looked into
a few starter companies and possibly buying into a franchise, but it seemed too expensive. “I wanted to start something that was low cost but brought in high income,” said Adams. At some point Adams latched onto the idea of oversized food, specifically burgers, as a selling point. Adams developed the whopping eight pound Akebono Sumo Burger which feeds about 5 large males and has the circumference of a large pizza. Fifty people have tried the challenge of consuming this gargantuan burger, but all have failed. “Every restaurant has a twist theme to it,” said Adams. “Hard Rock Café has movie stars and glamour; Outback Steakhouse has the
12
Top: “Spongebob”, Kenji, Addy, and Adam, sit outside O.M.G burgers before enjoying the “Big Boy” burger.
Adams and “Spongebob” greet customers at O.M.G Burgers.
Australian theme; we have huge burgers. A lot of bikers come through who are obsessed with Harleys and the American way. We’re selling the burgers as the American dream.” After deciding on his business venture, Adams networked with various people; had a series of blueprints drawn up and what many figured was a dream became reality. “At first people thought I was crazy,” said Adams. “Being in the military and starting a restaurant at the same time, ‘isn’t that impossible’, they would say. Well, if you juggle your life properly, you can make anything intertwine with the military.” Adams’ wife, a native of Japan, also played a major role in helping O.M.G burgers gain a solid footing in Japan. She came up with the name for the business; hoping the burgers would be so amazing that customers couldn’t help but say “oh-my-God” in surprise. “Without her I couldn’t establish myself overseas,” said Adams. “My wife is in charge of accounting and she’s the guardian of it. Legally, you have to be in the family name to have anything in Japan. There’s no way I could have done this on my own.”
13
According to Adams, his success is also a result of his 17 years of culinary training on barbecues, cleaning, and food management in the Navy. “I’m a cook,” said Adams. “I’ve been cooking my whole life. I know the business, and I know the industry. I know how to perform customer service, talk to people, and get the clientele. I know how to create a warm feeling and atmosphere where you feel comfortable enough to come back again and again.” In addition to his extensive background in cooking, Adams took advantage of social media web sites to further his company’s success. “Eighty to ninety-five percent of my business’ success can be attributed to Facebook,” said Adams. “If I could shake Mark Zuckerberg’s hand, I would. Facebook is a good business tool that lets me get the information I need to get out at a minimal cost and it allows us to post photos of our customers who want to be featured online.” The restaurant had a bit of a rocky start with the earthquake and tsunami in 2010, but Adams managed to hurdle over this obstacle and people streamed in to try the “extremely
cheap” Signature Burgers. Everyone from Americans to local celebrities would visit daily, hearing about these burgers by word-ofmouth. Overtime, it became a hangout spot for bikers. Even Japanese customers accustomed to small portions would swing through. “It adds a little happiness to their lives,” said Adams. “They turn it into an event. I have a huge passion for bikes and a lot of bikers love to come out, but the biggest accomplishment is raising morale. It’s an establishment that Americans and the local community can enjoy.” Besides making people happy, the restaurant gives customers the unique option of bringing their own toppings. “Sometimes people bring cherries, sauces, or whatever they like,” said Adams. “It’s a cool idea that makes the eating experience more interactive.” Surprisingly, even Sailors aboard the Stennis have had the rare opportunity to try one of Adams’ deluxe burgers. “When I ate there, I felt like I was eating an American burger,” said Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charlotte Oliver who was stationed in Japan. “It’s nice to have a piece of Americana 7,000 miles away from home.” Besides giving military members a place to feel at home, O.M.G Burgers sponsors a women’s roller derby team called The Killer Katanas, which is made up of military spouses. “The most rewarding thing is sponsoring the women’s roller derby team,” said Adams. “We’re making the Japanese yen, but we’re flipping that money back into sponsorships for other people in the military. We’re giving back.” In the future, Adams plans to transition into the civilian world and move back to Japan. In the meantime, he’s seeking to expand his company in Bremerton, Wa. “Bremerton doesn’t really have many restaurants that stand out,” said Adams. “I want to change that. I want to create a place that’s so good people from Seattle would be willing to take the ferry all the way over here just to try these burgers.” Even though Adams has already achieved his own dreams, he encourages everyone to go out and make it happen for themselves. “It’s a gamble in life, but you need that drive, that discipline to push through, and if you fail you get up again and try harder and harder. It takes a certain type of person to want to own your business and be an entrepreneur; to be on your own. The military has given me that mental state.” At the end of the day, Adam says “everyone enjoys a burger.” To get a closer look at O.M.G Burgers, fly to Aikawa or visit http://www.omgburgers.com
Friend of Adams and frequent O.M.G Burgers customer, You Kawasaki enjoys a burger.
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ET2 David Dean
ET3 Alexander Ow
ET3 Tyler Bruels
RAT SHACK 15
There is a lurking “house mouse” aboard Stennis. A compact shop full of charging radio batteries, a clean and well-organized workspace and technicians ready to provide service, this is Stennis’ Portable Communcations Shop, dubbed the ‘Rat Shack.’ Story by MC3 Claire Farin Photos by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
Electronics Technicians work in the ‘Rat Shack’, maintaining the radio communication network used on Stennis. The shop’s name came from the look of radios used in the past called the Shipboard Radio Communications 47 (SRC-47) Flight Deck Communications Systems. The radios’ thick, black bodies and long antennas resembled those of rats, so the name stuck. To some, the job of ‘Rat Shack’ technicians may not seem integral to carrier operations, but with good connectivity comes increased productivity and efficiency in every workspace. Imagine a ship without a radio communications network. Any message, whether news of a completed job or information about an injured Sailor would take much longer to pass. “We maintain more than 600 portable hand-held radios, 130 cranials, and 80 base stations,” said Electronics Technician 2nd Class David Dean, the shop’s work center supervisor. “Most of the maintenance we do is corrective, meaning when something’s broken, we can fix it. There are also annual checks that we conduct for the base stations. These are the fixed wall mounted radios located in most squadron spaces.” HYDRA, which stands for Hierarchical Yet Dynamically Reprogrammable Architecture, is a wire-free communication network used by Stennis’ crew while onboard. Other external communication systems include the Portable Radio Communications (PRC) 113, 104, and 96. Combat Systems (CS) 9 division is responsible for the maintenance and repair of these systems. “We ensure 100% reliable communications for our primary customers: the flight deck control, damage control and force protection,” said Senior Chief Electronics Technician Stephen Moryl, the division’s Leading Chief Petty Officer (LCPO). “Below deck communications is an added bonus.” Aside from providing service to all their customers, technicians work hard to ensure repairs are done quickly and accurately. “We try our best to fix every radio immediately,” said Dean.
“That’s part of our job, and people depend on us for quality service. When they bring equipment here first thing in the morning, it’s usually ready for pickup by lunch time.” The ‘Rat Shack,’ which is manned by only three qualified craftsmen, may be a small and sometimes negligible piece of the mighty aircraft carrier, but technicians who work there understand their importance in the ship’s mission. “Being a maintenance person in the rat shack is not very hard, but it’s rewarding,” said Electronics Technician 3rd Class Alexander Ow. “There may not be too much action in this job but we play a vital role back stage.” As the shop’s LCPO, Moryl believes that everything they do has one purpose, and this is to be prepared to support the command and the Navy to achieve victory in any conflict.
16
I AM FOD.
FOREIGN OBJECT DEBRIS
jack that will totally
UP Ad
your aircraft.
17
on the radar Hey, Shipmate!
It’s the one thing that’s like nails on a chalkboard to all Sailors; the sound of a Chief calling you out in the middle of a P-way. You hold your breath as you turn around, playing out in your head the scolding that is sure to ensue. Much to your surprise, he has set his sights on some other poor soul and completely looked over your beltless trousers and untied boot laces. While not all khakis enforce uniform standards to the T, here are some pointers to keep you out of trouble, and the khakis quiet.
Unsat Ponytails, pigtails, and widely spaced individual hanging locks aren’t authorized.
Sorry, poindexter, but no pens, pencils or markers may be exposed while in uniform.
Squared away
If sleeves are rolled up, they have to be halfway between your elbow and shoulder with the dark blue facing out.
There are 27 buttons; forget one, and you might as well forget them all. Though no one may call you out on it, it’s a basic uniform rule that we learned in boot camp.
Don’t pop your collar. It’s not only unauthorized, it’s totally lame.
We may not be marionettes, but we might as well have string down the middle. Your belt buckle should line up with buttons down the middle of your blouse.
Psst! Blousing straps are supposed to sit between the third and fourth rows of laces from the top. Photography by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
18
Overseas
Malaysia:Kota Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu (KK) isn’t quite as large as Kuala Lumpur, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in natural beauty. Nestled between sandy beaches, mountains, conservation preserves, and rainforests, KK offers the buzz of a small city without compromising its lush landscape. Local businesses and commercial centers are growing, so you can snorkel in the morning, climb a mountain in the afternoon and enjoy a drink at the resort in the evening. There’s truly something for everyone in KK.
MT. KINABALU CLIMB
ETD: 0530hrs LENGTH: 17 hours ITINERARY: Mt. Kinabalu, is the highest mountain in South East Asia. This climb takes about 10-12 hours. Descend to the starting point by 1800 hours regardless of location. THINGS TO BRING: Suitable hiking shoes/ warm clothing/drinking water/ high energy snacks/ Tylenol or Motrin/ sun block/ lip gloss/ insect repellent/ camera/ extra socks. Suggestion: Wrap everything in plastic bags. PRICE: USD 200 per pax (Min. 4 pax) *Incl. land transfers, packed lunch, entrance fees, climbing permit, insurance, certificate, coordinator for registration and mountain guide.
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MANTANANI ISLANDS
ETD: 0715 hrs LENGTH: 10 hrs ITINERARY: Mantanani Islands are a group of three isolated islands located northwest of Kota Belud, about an hour’s drive from the state capital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. From the mainland, these islands are approximately 45-minutes away by boat. PACKAGE 1: Discover Scuba Dive – (no diver certification required) USD 155/ pax PACKAGE 2: Leisure Dive – (for certified divers) USD 155/pax PACKAGE 3: Snorkeling (non-divers) – USD 110/pax THINGS TO BRING: A towel and a change of clothes. *Incl. BBQ lunch and mineral water, Diving equipment weights, weight belt, BCD, regulator, mask, fins, snorkel & wetsuit.
BEAUFORT PROBOSCIS MONKEY
ETD: 1230hrs LENGTH: 8 hrs ITINERARY: Board a boat and cruise along the river in search of Borneo’s long-nosed monkey, found nowhere else in the world. One might also see a variety of unique birds like the hornbill and other wildlife. The fireflies light up the surrounding mangrove trees. End the night with a village dinner. PRICE: USD 85 per pax (Min. 2 pax) Incl. Set Lunch, Land/ river transfer, tour guide, Village walk and traditional Malay dinner.
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING
ETD: 0730 hrs LENGTH: 8 hrs ITINERARY: Learn the basics of scuba diving in a day. Depart for the nearby islands of Tunku
Abdul Rahman Park. Learn basic underwater knowledge, then take a dive for 20-40 minutes. Take a light lunch break, then take a 2nd and 3rd dive in the afternoon. In the evening, return to Kota Kinabalu. THINGS TO BRING: A change of clothing and a towel. PRICE: USD 140 per pax (Min. 2 pax) Incl. light lunch, refreshments, national
park entrance fee, diving permit, land/sea transfer, and diving equipment.
BUS CITY TOUR
ETD: 1400 hrs LENGTH: 8 hrs ITINERARY: Visit the unique hanging Wisma Tun Mustapha. Enjoy different religions of Malaysia by visiting the Puu Toh Sze Chinese Temple. Catch a glimpse of unique and rare birds as you ride along the City Bird Sanctuary. The Signal Hill
Observatory gives you a birds eye view of the city and visit to the State Museum where you will see replicas of local long houses and other unique artifacts. PRICE: USD 65 per pax (Min. 4 pax )
LEISURE DIVE
ETD: 0730 hrs LENGTH: 8hrs ITINERARY: Boat ride to the nearby islands. The 1st dive is normally about 40 minutes. All diving is done in the vicinity of the island park. Take a 2nd dive after a short break, then followed by a light lunch. The 3rd dive after lunch is usually a beach dive. THINGS TO BRING: A change of clothing and a towel. PRICE: USD 140 per pax (Min. 2 pax) Incl. light lunch, refreshments, National Park entrance fee, diving permit, land/ sea transfers, diving equipment. NOTE : Diver must show internationally approved diving license (PADI/ DAN or equivalent).
PADAS WHITE WATER RAFTING
ETD: 0430hrs LENGTH: 10 hrs ITINERARY: The adventure begins with a bus ride to the town of Beaufort, then an interesting local train ride that will take you to the starting point. The train ride takes you along the gorge giving you glimpses of the river and the upcoming thrills. Upon arrival, take a light snack break. A safety briefing will be given before starting on the rafting. After rafting, enjoy a scrumptious BBQ dinner before departing back to Kota Kinabalu. THINGS TO BRING: A change of clothing and a towel is suggested as one will be drenched after the rafting. PRICE: USD 90 per pax (Min. 2 pax) Incl. land transfers, local rafting experts licensed by American Lifeguard Association, safety equipment, light refreshments and BBQ.
THE HEADHUNTER’S VILLAGE
ETD: 1230 hrs LENGTH: 6 to 7 hrs ITINERARY: The legendary Kadazandusun warrior, Monsopiad, reportedly beheaded more than 15 warriors from other tribes a few hundred years ago. Experience the daily lifestyle of the tribal people by participating in their rice-harvesting process, wine-making process, etc. Visit the local mosque, Tun Mustapha Building, Chinese Temple and the State Museum. Lunch will be at a Northern Indian restaurant and a delicious dinner at a famous Chinese restaurant. THINGS TO BRING: Comfortable walking shoes/ insect repellent/ camera. PRICE: USD 95 per pax (Min. 2 pax) Incl. transfers, all entrance fees, free flow of soft drinks and water during tour, lunch, and dinner. Licensed tourist guide also included.
MANUKAN ISLAND DAY TRIP
EETD: 0900 hrs LENGTH: 4 to 6 hrs ITINERARY: Take a boat ride to one of the beautiful islands off the coast. Enjoy your time relaxing on the beach or take a colorful and interesting snorkel into the South
China Sea. In the afternoon, enjoy a scrumptious seafood BBQ lunch before visiting another island. THINGS TO BRING: Swimwear/ towel/ sunscreen/ change of clothing/ extra cash for optional water sports. PRICE: USD 70 per pax (No minimum pax required)
Incl. land/ sea transfers, snorkeling sets, international buffet BBQ lunch with free flow of soft drink, National Park entrance fees.
PORING HOT SPRINGS & WAR MEMORIAL
ETD: 0700 hrs LENGTH: 9 hrs ITINERARY: Along the way, stop at the quaint town of Nabalu where you will find many unique Sabahan souvenirs. Also pass by scenic rice paddy fields and beautiful valley villages to meet the warm and friendly natives of Sabah. Proceed to Poring Hot Springs where you will find the 1st Canopy Walkway in Malaysia. You can soak yourself in the soothing waters of the natural sulfuric hot springs piped to Japanese-style baths. THINGS TO BRING: Comfortable walking shoes/ light windproof jacket, sweater/ extra change of clothing/ swimwear/ raincoat/ umbrella. PRICE: USD 70 per pax (Min. 2 pax) Incls. transfers, entrance fees to Park, lunch, licensed tourist guide.
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Overseas
Thailand:Phuket
Phuket has definitely bounced back from a tsunami that rocked its shores in 2004 while maintaining its natural charms. Thailand may have a naughty reputation, but there’s a reason James Bond thought it was a fine place to visit. The beaches resemble something from a dream, and the local shrines and temples definitely remind you that despite the urban sprawl, Thailand is a place rich with culture and mystery. PHUKET ELEPHANT RIDING
ETD: 0830 hrs or 1400 hrs LENGTH: 1.5 hours ITINERARY: Start the tour with elephant riding into a tropical rain forest along the route of an old mining trail for approximately
30-40 minutes. Afterwards, enjoy a show featuring their intelligence and their close association with humans. Enjoy the seasonal fruits and refreshments. PRICE: USD 35.00 per person
BODY MASSAGE PACKAGE
ETD: 1000 hrs or 1300 hrs LENGTH: 2.5 hrs ITINERARY: All the below packages include complimentary steam, sauna, and jacuzzi passes and a round-trip transfer from/ to MWR tour desk. 2 hours for treatment and ½ hour for free use of complimentary items. PACKAGE 1 TOTAL 120 Minutes
(RECOMMENDED FOR FEMALE)
(RECOMMENDED FOR MALE)
ETD: 1730 hrs LENGTH: 5.5 hrs ITINERARY: Phuket Fantasea the ultimate night time entertainment and leisure park in a stunning 140acre theme complex. It’s featuring a breathe-taking Las Vegas style show. Enjoy a diner buffet before the performance. PRICE: USD 72 per person
Thai Massage (60 Mins) Aromatic Massage (60 Mins) PRICE: USD 78.00 per person PACKAGE 2 TOTAL 120 Minutes (RECOMMENDED FOR MALE)
Head & Shoulder Massage (60 Mins) Reflexology (60 Mins) PRICE: USD 88.00 per person PACKAGE 3 TOTAL 120 Minutes (RECOMMENDED FOR FEMALE)
Herbal Body Scrub (60 Mins Aromatic Massage (60 Mins)
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PRICE: USD 103.00 per person PACKAGE 3 TOTAL 120 Minutes Aroma Salt Glow & Wine and Honey Wrap (60 Mins) Aromatic Massage (60 Mins) PRICE: USD 122.00 per person
CULTURAL THEME SHOWS WITH DINNER
6 TEMPLES TOUR
ETD: 0900 hrs LENGTH: 4hrs ITINERARY: Arrive at Nakkerd Hill where you will visit the stunning Praputtamongkol Eaknakakeeree 45 meters height with 25.45 meters base diameter on this hilltop offers the most marvelous view over Chalong Bay and Southern Phuket. Then proceed to Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most revered monastery at Rawai Beach. PRICE: USD 35 per person
MUAY THAI (THAI BOXING)
ETD: 2100 hrs LENGTH: 8 hrs ITINERARY: Muay Thai is referred to as “The Art of the Eight Limbs,” as the hands, shins, elbows, and knees are all used extensively in this art. A practitioner of Muay Thai (“nak muay”) thus has the ability to execute strikes using eight “points of contact,” as opposed to “two points” (fists) in Western boxing. PRICE: Bangla Boxing Stadium: Wed, Fri & Sun Stadium side: US$ 50.00 Sai Nam Yen Boxing Stadium: Mon &Thu Ringside: US$ 50.00
PHANG NGA TOUR ETD: 0800 hrs LENGTH: 10.5 hrs ITINERARY: Depart for Phang-Nga to visit Suwannakuha Temple, you can see Buddha cave, and continue trip to Phang Nga Jetty for cruising around Phang Nga Bay for the beautiful
limestone island, honeycombed with caves and the aquatic grottoes known as Khao Ping-Gan and Tamlod. You will also visit unique Panyi Island where a whole community of Sea Gypsies lives in stilt houses. Lunch will be provided at the local restaurant. PRICE: USD 55 per person
PHANG NGA & NAKA ISLAND
ETD: 0800 hrs LENGTH: 10.5 hrs ITINERARY: Visit Tapu Island and Khao Ping Kan (the “Leaning Island”). Explore the labyrinth of mangrove swamp and pass through two caves: Tham Lod Noi and Tham Lod Yai, with their amazing stalactites. Enjoy a great lunch at Ko Panyi Village, after lunch visit the village and free time for local products
shopping. Continue trip by snorkeling, swimming or simply relaxing on a beach at Naka Island. THINGS TO BRING: Swimming suit, short & light T-shirt, sun block lotion, sun cap, sun glasses, towel and a camera. PRICE: USD 70 per pax (Min. 2 pax)
PHANG NGA RAFTING & ELEPHANT TREKKING
EETD: 0800 hrs LENGTH: 11 hrs ITINERARY: Drive on to Tone Parivat Wildlife Sanctuary Station where a briefing will be made before you proceed to enjoy the exciting white water rafting. After a delightful lunch with coffee/tea, experience a short elephant ride into a natural rain forest. Afterwards drive to a waterfall and enjoy a cooling swim at the waterfall’s pool before returning. THINGS TO BRING: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, swim wear, towel, change of clothes, sun lotion. PRICE: USD 92 per person
PHUKET ADVENTURE BY MOUNTAIN BIKE
ETD: 0815 hrs LENGTH: 8hrs ITINERARY: Drive north to the scenic viewpoint at Ao Por, overlooking Phang-Nga Bay and James Bond Island. Start mountain biking along a single track back road and low hills with beautiful scenery of the
Andaman Sea, riding pass prawn farms, rubber and pineapple plantations and friendly local villages. Visit a Thai cock fighting farm, where the cocks are specially bread and trained for fighting, stopping at Bang Pae Waterfall with the tour ending at Tha Sala Beach. Enjoy soft drinks and fresh fruits, before transferring back. THINGS TO BRING: Sport shoes for bike riding, light T-shirt, shorts, sun lotion, sun glasses, beach towel, bug spray. PRICE: USD55 per person Incl. roundtrip transfer, mountain bike 21 gears, crash helmet, support vehicle, soft drinks, snacks, fresh fruits, English speaking local escort and personal insurance.
ANDAMAN SEA KAYAK
ETD: 0930 hrs LENGTH: 8 hrs ITINERARY: Take the comfortable escort boat then depart for Phang Nga Bay National Park. Paddle the kayak in the dark and long caves around the islands and visit the lagoon. Lunch will be provided onboard. After that depart for your own leisure time on the beach , self paddling, swimming etc. THINGS TO BRING: Swimming suit, shorts and light T-shirt, beach towel, sun block, sun cap, sun glasses and a camera. PRICE: USD 92 per person
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rating: AWS
Every rate in the Navy has their own specialities that set them apart from the next. As an AWS, we are always training to better ourselves. Whether it is Search and Rescue (SAR), vertical replenishment, medivac, combat SAR or aerial gunnery, we are always ready to complete the mission at hand. Without our crews, our birds, or our rate, the mission could not be completed, - AWS3 Calvin Knowlton
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Photography by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
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Photo of: AWS2 Nate Edwards
? ask the LPO We at Underway believe our readers deserve to be heard. You asked the questions and we found the answers. This months knowledge comes from Combat Systems very own IT1 William Acosta.
What is a “Fun Boss“?
The “Fun Boss” is the ship’s liaison for coordinating all events onboard that are Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) related. Whether we are in port in Bremerton or San Diego, or on a port visit to Australia, you can always go to his office to find discounted tickets and information on movie nights, local games, concerts, tours, etc.
What is a liberty buddy?
The command has made it a requirement for all personnel going on liberty overseas to have a “liberty buddy.” A liberty buddy is there to make sure, should you come across any trouble, that a Sailor can help you out of a sticky situation, whether you’ve had a little too much to drink and decided it was a good idea to ask your senior chief to dance, you’ve gotten into an altercation with the authorities over whether or not the wet smudge on the ground was from you spitting, or perhaps you’ve been stopped from spending way too much money on overpriced fake designer head phones. Whatever the issue, your liberty buddy is there to keep you safe, and you are there to do the same for them in return. While it may seem like just another hoop to jump through, it has been proven time and time again that two heads are better than one.
As a new Sailor on the ship, what type of organizations or clubs are there to join?
Depending on the rank of the Sailor, a highly recommended organizations are the Junior Enlisted Association, Second Class Petty Officer Association or First Class Petty Officer Association. You may also want to consider joining CSADD, which stands for Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions. It’s not a requirement to join an organization, but it’s highly recommended and is a good start for your naval career. Each of these groups will be filled with Sailors who can help guide you down a positive path.
What are some ways to keep in contact with loved ones besides e-mail?
E-mail is the most common way to keep in contact with family and loved ones but besides e-mail, the Stennis offers a program called United Through Reading. If you have kids back home, someone can record you reading to them and send the video home so they’re able to see you. For more information on the program, you can get in contact with a Religious Programs Specialist or a member of the First Class Petty Officer Association. Then of course you can always write a letter or use the Sailor phones.
What do the different color jerseys represent? The different jerseys that air department wears represent different jobs on the flight deck and in the hanger bays. The red jerseys are worn by crash and salvage personnel along with Aviation Ordnancemen. The green jerseys are worn by arresting gear and catapult technicians. The crew who drive the tractors to maneuver and position the aircraft when not in use wear the blue jerseys. White is worn by safety, media, medical, and liquid oxygen Sailors. The guys who work on fuels wear the purple jerseys. Shooters and plane directors wear the yellow jerseys. The brown jerseys are worn by the plane captains. As you can see there are many different jobs on the flight deck and hanger bays.
I’m interested in school. What are some steps I need to take in order to enroll in classes onboard?
As a leading petty officer, I would first review the ship’s instructions to make sure he or she meets all the requirements put in place, such as time onboard. I would also make sure that particular Sailor is qualified in-rate so he or she can take on the extra responsibility of attending classes. Lastly, the ESO would be the point of contact.
What is PTS and what does it mean to me? - MC2 Lex Wenberg
Perform to Serve (PTS) is a quality control system to ensure that each rating has the amount of enlisted Sailors required by the fleet. Basically, it’s a request for permission to reenlist. This is important to both seasoned Sailors and those coming straight from bootcamp because the PTS process examines each Sailor based on some pretty tough criteria that can span the length of each career. Some of the criteria include Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) scores, PNA vs. advancement, the last five evaluation scores, and rating-specific items (usually rating-specific qualifications). PTS is performed monthly, starting 12 months out from each Sailor’s soft End of Active Obligated Service (EAOS). The “soft EAOS” is the end of a fouryear enlistment, though many Sailors opt to enlist for more. In that case, the extended EAOS is then known as the “hard EAOS.” Each month leading up to the soft EAOS, the Navy reviews the top Sailors ranked by the PTS criteria listed above. As soon as a Sailor hits their soft EAOS, the monthly cycle begins again leading up to the Sailor’s hard EAOS. This gives each Sailor only so much time to focus on the things that count: fitness, getting good evals and making rank. Not every Sailor is planning on reenlisting, but preparing for PTS can ensure that we are ready for whatever life throws at us, with the greatest number of options possible.
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Q&A Interview by MCSN Justin Lawrence
MC3
Grant wamack Novelist, Musician
Grant Wamack stepped out of the blistering sun that always comes with a Chicago summer and into the cool recording studio. Though he was technically on vacation, he came to work. After hours of recording, writing and rewriting verses, he took a few minutes to sit down with his producer. He not only talks about the album they’re working on but his recently published novel and his upcoming deployment to the Middle East as well. The producer takes another long look at the 23-year-old and sighs, a smile creeping across his face. “Grant Wamack, you may be the most interesting person that has walked into my studio in a long time.”
You’ve recently published a novel and recorded your fourth album. Tell me about them. “The novel is called ‘A Lightbulb’s Lament’ It’s basically about a gentleman with a light bulb for a head searching for his creator in this dark post-apocalyptic world. The fourth album is called ‘The Dope Manifesto Vol. 1’, and it’s my first studio recorded album. It’s a lot different than my other albums; it’s more personal. Basically a time capsule from when we got back from deployment until now.” Do you relate at all to the main character in your book? “Yes and no. Mr. Watts, the main character, is a gentleman but taken to the extreme. I’m polite and all but not to that extent. A lot of my characters are based off people I know or just a mix of different character traits.” How does it feel to be 23 and already have accomplished so much?
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“It feels pretty good, but I’m not satisfied yet. It’s only one novel; I want to have multiple out. I’d like to have a positive reception to my work. I want to keep rhyming and keep writing.”
Lightbulb’s Lament’ is the second book I wrote. The first book I wrote, ‘Notes from the Guts of a Hippo’, is still unpublished and may remain that way for some time.”
Your book, ‘A Lightbulb’s Lament’, fits into the new genre called Bizarro. What does that mean? “Bizarro is an umbrella term for weird fiction in general such as absurdism, surrealism, high absurdism, new surrealism, what have you. It’s a genre that includes all different kinds of weird fictions.”
What inspires your writing? “Comic books, movies, plays, short stories, dreams. I try to draw inspiration from anything that I read or come across. Certain writers, such as Thomas Ligotti, H.P. Lovecraft, Richard Laymon, Grant Morrison, Franz Kafka, and D.F. Lewis, really inspire me. Musically? Life. Wu-Tang Clan and a lot of old school rappers. LL Cool J, A Tribe Called Quest, Lupe Fiasco, Joe Budden, Kanye West, and Biggie.”
How did you get published? “A friend of mine recommended Spectacular Productions. I researched the web site; talked to some of the writers I knew who had been published there. Decided to give them a shot and they accepted the book.” Is this the first book you’ve written and published? “This is my first book published but not the first book I’ve written. ‘A
What would you say separates you from other writers? “I combine a lot of genres into both my short stories and my longer pieces. I would say there’s a lot more originality as opposed to something being re-hashed over and over again. It’s something different, something funny;
weird but relatable at the same time.” Have you always wanted to be a writer? “No, not at all. I was always good at English. It was easy for me. I used to breeze through writing papers. Teachers always liked my writing but I never seriously focused on it. It wasn’t until I started writing comic book scripts to supplement my artwork, that writing became a major part of my life.” What are some of the challenges you’ve faced as a young writer? “When you’re first starting out, you’re young and you’re new but you’re also virtually unknown. When you send your stories out to a publisher they won’t know who you are or what to expect. They may just assume you’re a garbage writer. Ultimately you’re unestablished and you don’t have a reputation. Now that I have a book out, my name carries more weight.” Tell me about the writing process from first draft to
Photography by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
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Q&A first sale? “I like to come up with titles first and then try to build the story around the title. Sometimes certain scenes and images will come up. Usually the ending will come up in my mind first. Often times I will write the ending before a majority of the story is finished. Certain key scenes will be written down. I don’t really like to work with outlines. At most I will do a very, very loose outline with key plot points and use it as a map or a guide for the story. I like to keep my stories spontaneous so that they mimic life because life isn’t always a straight line. After that I sit down and write the story, at least the first draft, then I go
up over time. To sum it all up, read and write, then read and write some more.” Your album ‘The Dope Manifesto Vol. 1’ is your fourth album now. How did you get into the music industry? “I used to freestyle in junior high with friends, just for fun. It was something cool to do to pass the time. Sometimes I would battle people. It was just something that I did. Eventually one of my friends who rapped asked me if I wanted to record, so he threw me on some tracks and I fell in love with the music side of things. Once I went to college, I recorded my first album called ‘Heavenly
How is this album different from the other three you’ve recorded? “This one is the most diverse, well crafted album of mine and it’s a much better quality sound than the other three. I used to only be able to do slow flows, but there are a lot of faster flows and crazy concepts. Also, there are a lot of personal tracks thrown into the mix. It’s just a mix of things I’ve been working on. The next step in the progression of GS.” Where does the name ‘GS’ come from? “GS stands for G-Smooth. At the beginning of junior high they called me G-Smooth because I was smooth in person and I ran
money off music, getting a cult fan base and really just seeing people getting any sort of enjoyment from my music. If I could get signed to an independent record label like Stone’s Throw, that would be great.” What do you prefer, writing stories or working on your music? “Writing or making music? It sounds like a cop out, but I like them both equally. There are times when I need to make music, and there are times when I need to write. They both go hand in hand and help me in different ways.” Being in the Navy and doing everything you do must be difficult, how do
“Keep on pushing, keep on writing, keep on rapping and keep the momentum going” back, revise, and cut out all the fat. Once I feel like it’s good enough I start sending it out to different publishers, and then just wait. Rinse and repeat.” What is some advice you would give to other writers? “Read a lot, and write a lot. Don’t make excuses and be persistent. Everyone has the time to write. Even if you only write 100 words per day, it will add
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Fridges’ all by myself which included mixing and mastering. It had a pretty positive reception. It actually got reviewed by this indie-rock web site that gave it a really good review and I’ve just kept going with it ever since.”
‘smoothly’ in track and field. So a lot of people just called me Smooth or G-Smooth. That stuck all through high school and college, but I thought it was a little cheesy so I changed it to GS.” What is it that you enjoy most about rapping? “Rapping is very similar to writing; it’s just a different medium. It’s like two different muscles in your body. It forces you to work differently because there’s different rules. You have to be spontaneous; you have to be able to think quickly. You could freestyle, you could tell a story, and you could rap about anything, it’s fun. It’s a craft; something you need to work at. It’s actually very therapeutic to me. Relationship issues and life issues, I can rap about them and it helps me get over it and move on.” Where would you like to take your music career? “Performing, making
you handle it? “It is very difficult. It’s rough. Honestly I just put in the work whenever there’s time. Like every day I need to rap, or write or do something that applies to one of these two mediums. When we’re in port I could go out and party and hit up the town, but there’s times when I’ve chosen to sit down and write so that I could further my craft. You have to make time. If there’s something that you truly want to do you’ll make time.” So what’s in the future for Grant Wamack? “My book comes out in October, and readers will be able to buy it at Amazon.com. I also plan on promoting the book as much as possible, maybe coming out with a book trailer and working on my next book, which is called ‘The Partymiester,’ which should be finished during deployment. I’ll also be working on Dope Manifesto Volume 2. I’ll just keep on pushing, keep on writing, keep on rapping, and keep the momentum going.”
OTE 2012
Contact your departmental voting representative or Chief Dizon to cast your ballot. The general election is being held on November 6th.
BE HEARD!
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In Touch
THE INS AND OUTS OF AN AMCROSS letter - MCSN Justin Lawrence
A family member’s ability to effectively send a message of distress to a deployed Sailor can be the difference between getting home in time or not. Every family member should know how to send an American Red Cross (AMCROSS) letter when there is an emergency situation back home. If an immediate family member has died, been seriously injured, diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, or a child was born, you should get a letter. An AMCROSS letter is better than an e-mail because the letter’s severity gets verified and is therefore recognized by the command. That means plans to get you home can start being made faster. Here are the basic steps to follow to submit an AMCROSS letter.
1. Have your loved ones call your local American Red Cross chapter. 2. Notify them that you have a loved one in the (what service) stationed (where you currently are) and that (whatever the situation).
3. If death is the situation, American Red Cross will ask for the cause and time of death, the funeral arrangements, contact number and name of funeral home presiding over the burial. They also need to know if the servicemember is aware or unaware of the situation.
4. American Red Cross will then send an
AMCROSS letter to your command where it will be received by main communication and then delivered to your command chaplain.
5. Your immediate chain of command will be notified so they can pick up the letter and give it to you.
6. Once again, if death is the situation the servicemember will have the
opportunity to submit a leave chit. If deployed, the leave chit will make it up to the CO.
7. If leave is approved, the amount of days will be deducted from the servicemember’s current leave balance. The servicemember will be responsible for all travel costs as well.
8. If servicemembers cannot afford to purchase everything themselves, the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society has programs available to assist Sailors with expenses for emergency leave.
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parting shot
USS George Washington CVN-73 passes USS John C. Stennis CVN-74 in the Pacific Ocean. Photo by MC3 Kenneth Abbate
Representing more than yourself
IT GR TE
YOU ARE
N TIO CA DI
IN
DE
Y
Liberty With a Purpose
NEVER ALONE