Dahlgren Vol. 26, No. 2, February 2015
What’s Inside
thesource@journalpress.com • www.journalpress.com
ECRWSS Postal Patron
Pre-Sort STD U. S. POSTAGE PAID Permit #82 Woodstock, Va. 22664
The Journal Press, Inc. • (540) 775-2024
Dahlgren tests preparedness Facility takes part in Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield anti-terrorism event Andrew Revelos Naval Support Activity South Potomac
CSCS captures five education and training excellence awards
6
NSWC scientist wins NATO Science and Technology Award
2
Local Fleet Reserve Association ralliying to help homeless veterans
Michelle Obama praises controversial movie ‘American Sniper’
Pubic affairs officer is CSCS’s 2014 civilian of the year
4 4
5
Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield 2015 was conducted Feb. 2-12 across the U.S. Navy, including at Naval Support Facilities Dahlgren. “Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield is U.S. Fleet Forces’ directed exercise and annual capstone anti-terrorism event designed to evaluate Navy antiterrorism plans,” said Ed Patuga, Naval Support Activity South Potomac training officer. The annual exercise was highlighted by an active shooter scenario Feb. 11. Culinary Specialist 3rd Class Jessica Maffett portrayed the active shooter, roaming about a building looking for potential victims while first responders, See EXERCISE, page 3
U.S. Navy photo by Zack Shelby
Navy firefighters and paramedics work with members of King George Fire and Rescue to treat someone with simulated gunshot wounds
Sailor remembered for Pearl Harbor role Marty van Duyne News Net News Petty Officer Doris “Dorie” Miller became an unlikely hero when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. The mess attendant had arisen at about 6 a.m. and was below deck on the USS West Virginia collecting laundry when the alarm sounded general quarters Dec. 7, 1941. When he arrived at his battle station, he discovered his antiaircraft battery magazine had sustained severe torpedo damage. See SAILOR, page 8
Dahlgren’s Official, Unofficial base newspaper • We’re all about Dahlgren
Petty Officer Doris “Dorie” Miller receives the Navy Cross from Admiral Chester Nimitz, at an awards ceremony May 27, 1942 aboard the USS Enterprise. The medal was awarded for heroism during the attach on Pearl Harbor. U.S. Navy photograph/ National Archives
2
February 2015 • THE SOURCE
NSWC’s Anderson wins science award John J. Joyce NSWC Dahlgren Division Corporate Communications A U.S. Navy scientist recently received the 2014 NATO Science and Technology Organization’s Scientific Achievement Award, the Navy announced. NATO Chief Scientist Major Gen. Albert Husniaux, conferred the award to Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division principal scientist Steve Anderson for his impact on the MSG-088 Task Group’s work on data farming in support of NATO. “It was a great honor to collaborate with some of the most talented people I have ever met,” said Anderson regarding the prestigious U.S. and international scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and
military personnel in the task group. The collaboration enabled Anderson and his colleagues to achieve their objective - assess data farming capabilities worldwide to impact the development of improved decision support to NATO forces. The Scientific Achievement Award recognizes outstanding contributions in the context of activities in aerospace science and technology or aerospace systems applications. Calling Anderson’s contribution to the mission of the NATO Science and Technology Organization, “outstanding,” Husniaux recognized the NSWCDD scientist for his “extensive co-operative research in the field of decision support using modeling and simulation and, in particular, data farming.” “The task group combined results of assessments and explorations to not only recommend, but to demonstrate a way forward for implementing data farming methodologies and processes in the NATO modeling and simulation context,” according to the citation. “In this way, the task group achieved what no individual nation could achieve alone, a codified process for data farming that is ready and appropriate to support NATO decision making.” Anderson’s research specifically applied to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief planning. For example, he used modeling and simulation to explore the
Steve Anderson effectiveness of the Future Naval Capability project called the Transformable Craft, or T-Craft, in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts. This potential future U.S. and allied Navy air cushion vehicle could serve many purposes, including the transport of equipment and personnel between locations at sea and ashore during humanitarian assistance, disaster recovery, and major combat operations. Moreover, T-Craft complements U.S. Naval Sea-Basing strategy as a leap-ahead technology. Initial designs propose a fuel-efficient craft capable of self deployment during open ocean transits. T-Craft will enable high speed shallow-water transits while fully loaded with at least four M-1 tanks, good sea-keeping during cargo transfers at sea, and amphibious operations capability. Anderson briefed findings
of his NATO work to myriad groups, from the NATO Technical Review, hosted by the Swedish Defense Research Agency, to the Modeling and Simulation World Conference where his paper won “Best Paper in Defense, Homeland Security and First Responders.” “I would encourage anyone with an opportunity to participate on a NATO panel or working group to do so,” he said. “If you go with an open mind and a willingness to listen, it will change you perspectives in so many ways.” MSG-088 participation included members from the eight countries cited in the award -Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, Singapore, Sweden, Turkey, and the United States but also included visitors from France, Holland, Portugal, and the United Kingdom. “I am continuing to do what I can, personally and professionally, to address the grand challenges identified by this NATO technical working group,” said Anderson, who co-founded three non-profit research and education organization to help address these challenges: The International Association for Foresight and Solutions; The Institute for Confronting Global Challenges; and The Foundation for Prediction, Mitigation and Planning (www.ffpmp.org). “MSG-088 focused upon prevention planning and intelligent responses to probable and likely events,” said Anderson. “There exists a great deal of data around the world that can be
studied to identify trends. Many trends are disturbing, and have the potential to destroy huge investments and potentially cost millions of lives. I am a firm believer that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We need to establish a robust ‘data observatory’ to support novel interdisciplinary research, and do what we can to make the world a better place for our children and grandchildren.” Under the NATO Science and Technology Organization, Scientific Achievement Award candidates must have made significant contributions to activities sponsored by the organization during the preceding four years. Formed in 1998 by the merger of the Advisory Group for Aerospace Research and Development and the Defense Research Group, and stemming from a reorganization of the Research and Technology Organization, the Science and Technology Organization is the largest NATO group for defense science and technology. Encompassing a network of over 3,000 scientists and engineers from across the alliance and its partners, the Science and Technology Organization promotes and conducts co-operative research and information exchange across the full spectrum of defense research, develops and maintains a long-term NATO research and technology strategy, and provides advice to all elements of NATO on research and technology issues.
AMERICAN STANDARD INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.
Historyland Memorial Park Where Memories Are Cherished
The Dahlgren Source, an independent monthly newspaper oriented toward the Dahlgren community, is published by The Journal Press, Inc., a woman-owned business located in King George County, at 10250 Kings Hwy. The Dahlgren Source is not published under government contract. Mailing Address: P. O. Box 409 King George, Va. 22485 Email Address: thesource@journalpress.com Phone: 540-775-2024 Fax: 540-775-4099
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of Virginia’s policy for achieving equal housing opportunity throughout the Commonwealth. We encourage and support advertising and marketing programs in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status or handicap.
Carrie Scott
(540) 663-0190 (Corner of Dahlgren Rd. & Rosedale Dr.)
• Dahlgren, VA
The Journal - Your weekly paper. The Journal’s news is about our community — that’s it. We don’t try to be anything but local. It’s all about our community and what makes it GREAT!
The
Journal $24.00 a year Call 540-775-2024 to subscribe Or Subscribe on-line at www.journalpress.com
THE SOURCE • February 2015
3
U.S. Navy photo by Zack Shelby
Cpl. Andre Roy, a police officer at Naval Support Facility Dahlgren, advances toward a role-playing active shooter during Exercise Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield. In the background, Navy training evaluators observe the police officers’ response. Solid Curtain/Citadel Shield is an annual Navy exercise intended to enhance force protection and practice working with mutual aid agencies and first responders from King George and Westmoreland counties. EXERCISE from page 1 such as police, firefighters and emergency services personnel worked to apprehend her, tend to victims and subdue the situation. “The purpose of the active shooter/IED (Improvised Explosive Devices)/mass casualty exercise is to evaluate NSASP’s ability to respond to and recover from such an event,” Patuga said. “It is also designed to evaluate Navy Air and Missile Defense Command’s emergency action and response plan.”
By investing valuable time and resources, NAMDC was able to test its emergency plan and at the same time provide its work force and building occupants with guidance on how to prepare for and respond to active shooter crisis situations,” Patuga said. “King George, Colonial Beach, and Charles counties’ fire/ emergency medical personnel participation provided the opportunity to exercise mutual aid agreements with our neighboring communities,” Patuga said. “The EOD (Explosive
Serving Patients ages 2 to 102 One-visit crowns, clear braces, dentures, implants Delta Dental & Cigna PPO Preferred Provider
We accept Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express, and Care Credit.
Ordinance Disposal) detachment provided the technical expertise in responding to the simulated IED threat. Naval Criminal Investigative Service provided information and awareness of what could be expected should such an event occur within the NSA South Potomac fence lines. Branch Medical Clinic Dahlgren and the casualties’ role players enhanced the realism and training experience of exercise participants through application of moulage simulations for injuries.” Although the exercise was
Each office independently owned and operated
Richard Snow, Owner/Broker
(540) 775-6555 7947 Kings Highway King George, VA
designed to provide invaluable scenario-based training, the exercises are also crafted carefully to deter the possibility of serious injury. “Safety is paramount and has always been an integral part of planning and conducting an integrated exercise at NSA South Potomac,” said Patuga. “The drill package and scenario events list were safely vetted using the operational risk management matrix.” Patuga also said the exercise was Naval District Washington’s
capstone event and one of the capstone events across five Navy regions. Being the capstone installation, NSASP had more requirements to meet than the other installations within NDW,” Patuga said. He added that the NCIS Security Training and Assessment Team were onboard to evaluate the security force response procedures. “Conducting the exercise was a great opportunity as always to train for and continuously improve to provide the best response possible,” Patuga said.
EXIT REALTY EXPERTISE CONGRATULATES OUR 2014 TOP PRODUCERS! 1ST PLACE
2ND PLACE
3RD PLACE
Gary Butler
Jeff Robinson
Teresa Mims
540.847.7733
540.846.2338
540.295.1258
Licensed in VA and MD
FAMILY & COSMETIC DENTISTRY Wendy M. Moore, DDS (540) 775-5774
www.wendymooredds.com
www.ExitRealtyExpertise.com
Thinking of a New Career? Call us about Real Estate Classes!
4
February 2015 • THE SOURCE
Group looking to help homless veterans Richard Leggitt The Fleet Reserve Association, which represents active duty, reserves and retired members of the U.S. Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, will have a midyear meeting Feb. 19-21 in Fredericksburg, including a Friday program on providing help for homeless veterans. William Whitt, of King George, president of Fleet Reserve Association Branch 207, which represents members in the King George and Westmoreland area, said the meeting will include association branches from Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia and the District of Columbia. The meeting, which will be at the Hospitality House, 2801
Plank Road, will host a number of speakers at the Feb. 20 session who will discuss the efforts by the Veterans Administration and the Virginia Department of Veterans Services to provide assistance to wounded warriors, especially those who are homeless, Whitt said. Brandi Jancaitis, the executive director of the Virginia Wounded Warriors Program for the Virginia Department of Veterans Services, will speak at the 2 p.m. session and will discuss current Virginia efforts to help hundreds of homeless veterans throughout the state. Matt Leslie, director of Housing Development for the Virginia Wounded Warrior Program, said the state has redoubled its efforts in recent years to provide help for veterans seeking assistance, especially those who are homeless.
“There’s a bunch of resources available,� Leslie said. “We try to coordinate resources and housing first. We do an assessment that focuses on the vulnerability of the individual veterans. Then, we try to house them and wrap services around the housing.� Among the challenges facing wounded warriors and other veterans in Virginia are mental illness, unemployment, posttraumatic stress disorders, health problems and homelessness. Leslie said help is available from the Veterans Administration, several state agencies, such as the Department of Veterans Services, and other organizations, including the Fleet Reserve Association. Jancaitis leads a statewide team of professionals who monitor and coordinate behavioral health,
h
rehabilitative assistance and support services for veterans and their families. Jancaitis, the wife of an active duty soldier, has been with the Virginia Wounded Warrior Program since 2010. Whitt said veterans and active duty military personnel from King George, Westmoreland and the Fredericksburg area are welcome to attend the Friday session and participate in discussions with Jancaitis and other speakers. There is no cost to attend the Friday program, Whitt said. In addition to Jancaitis, there will be speakers available to discuss with veterans and active duty military many current issues facing them including Medicare, Social Security, the Affordable Care Act, TRICARE, and problems with the Veterans Administration.
Learn more William Whitt president of Fleet Reserve Association Branch 207 said it has more than 100 members who meet every second Saturday of the month at Ryan’s Steak House in Fredericksburg. For information about the Fleet Reserve Association, veterans and active duty personnel can call Whitt at 540-907-2377. Information about the Virginia Wounded Warriors Program to help homeless veterans can be obtained by calling 877-2851299.
%VSJOH NZ JOUFSOTIJQ BU
h
#BTDPN 1BMNFS &ZF )PTQJUBM * SFBMJ[FE UIF JNQPSUBODF PG B UIPSPVHI FZF FYBNJOBUJPO %S "OHFMB 4BOUJOHB 0QUPNFUSJTU
8F SF QBTTJPOBUF BCPVU ZPVS FZF IFBMUI N XXX BDDFTTFZF DPN
First Lady: ‘American Sniper’ shows complex journey
$!(,'2%. 3/52#% v X v !CCESS %YE #TRS HORIZ OVERSIZE ADS INDD
to their next mission in life.� made her want to do everything she She said this type of movie is can to support our troops, veterans, News Net News because the vast majority and their families.� DR. ANGELA SANTINGA (Runs important 2/16/15) However, she believes films and WASHINGTON — Michelle of Americans never see these stories. “They will never grasp these television are often the best way to Obama praised the movie “American Sniper� based on the life of Navy Seal issues on an emotional level without share those stories with Americans portrayals like this,� said Obama. that don’t have these first hand Chris Kyle. She commented on the film while “I have had the chance to visit our opportunities. “You don’t have to center an entire addressing a Got Your 6 screenwriters’ wounded warriors at Walter Reed, go event as part of her Joining Forces to base after base. I’ve been able to sit movie or create a special episode on down with groups of caregivers and these issues,� she said. “These folks initiative. She told the crowd she had just military spouses and hear about their can just be ordinary characters in the communities you create — a seen “American Sniper� saying, “and struggles and their triumphs.� The First Lady said those neighbor who once saw combat, a while I know there have been critics, I felt that, more often than not, this film experiences have changed her and teacher whose son is deployed.� touches on many of the emotions and experiences that I’ve heard firsthand Full Service Hair Salon & Spa from military families over these past few years.� (540) 370-0333 According to Obama, the movie www.royalhairstudio.com reflects wrenching stories of complex journeys that members of the uniformed services endure such as, “The complicated moral decisions they are tasked with everyday. The stresses of balancing love of family with a love of country. And the 2545 Cowan Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA 22401 challenges of transitioning back home www.royalhairstudio.com Marty van Duyne
She said if characters are depicted in that way, it will emphasize “the way we hope our country will welcome back our veterans — not by setting them apart, but by fully integrating them into the fabric of our communities.� She lauded the industry for efforts in accurately portraying diversity issues, such as gay rights, interracial marriage and military families. “And our Joining Forces initiative has worked with Dreamworks and iHeartRadio to create a series of powerful public service announcements), including one I
did with some animated penguins,� Obama said. The First Lady urged industry leaders to reach out to organizations that can provide guidance in accurately portraying both men and women in the military, veterans, and their families in a realistic manner, as opposed to just focusing on positive or negative extremes. She says an accurate depiction of military life may help prospective employers be more inclined to consider hiring veterans and military spouses.
ABSOLUTE REAL ESTATE AUCTION 83+/- Acres Sold to the Highest Bidder • 83.1+/- acres zoned A-2 • 3BR/2BA mobile home • Close to Rt. 206, Rt. 3 and KG schools Call Kelly Strauss - (540) 226-1279
THE SOURCE • February 2015
5
Lansdale earns Civilian of the Year award Brian Deters Center for Surface Combat Systems
Center for Surface Combat Systems announced its domain wide 2014 Civilian of the Year, Jan. 29. Capt. Bill McKinley, CSCS commanding officer, commended Kimberly Lansdale, CSCS’ public affairs officer, for her selection, saying it was an honor to give this award to her not only for a job welldone, but also for having an essential role in the success of CSCS. “Being a Public Affairs Officer is a very challenging and critical job,” McKinley said. “Kimberly takes on every task with tremendous positive energy, providing results always greater than expected, on time or even before deadlines. Her ability as PAO to gather and present the facts on a very short timeline is truly impressive.” Mr. Edward Gohring, CSCS executive director, says Lansdale has a tremendous array of responsibilities in her job as PAO. Submitted photo “The PAO position at CSCS is Kimberly Lansdale, left, the Center for Surface Combat Systems’ public affairs officer, was named its 2014 critical in supporting theand Navy Swap out of your old vehicle into a new Education and Training Center Civilian of the Year. Ford during Summer Swap Out Sales (NETC)our Strategic Communications initiatives that support the training mission success and most deserves Lansdale was thrilled to learn of Event, with DISCOUNTS Plan for Learning Centers’ staff mission,” Gohring said. “Kimberly to represent CSCS as its domain her selection for the award. and implementing programs and plays a significant role in our civilian of the year.” “I am very honored to be selected up to $10,000!
F
0
O
R
STATE-OF-THE-ART
SERVICE DEPARTMENT
D
OPEN ON SATURDAYS 8:00am – 4:00pm %
New 2015 Ford
FINANCING AVAILABLE!
FIESTA
STK#1790F
199
249
$
$
F-150
ESCAPE
299
7,500
$
0
$
F
O
R
D
16057 James Madison Pkwy., King George, VA 22485
Sta ord Regional Airport
Hickory Ridge
YOUR NEW HOMETOWN FORD DEALER
Active Duty Military Rebate of $500, Many More Options to Choose From! BE SURE TO FOLLOW & US ON FOR DISCOUNTS, NEWS SCAN HERE TO VISIT AND UPDATES! SEE OUR WEBSITE Limited, non-factory warranty good at participating dealerships. When you purchase a Rosner vehicle, you’re entitled to the complete package of Rosner Rewards & Customer Care Benefits, which provide you with enhanced services, such as oil changes and installed parts guaranteed for life valued at up to $2,400.
ay nw Co
Shannon Airport
. Rd
Sales Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm
VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND BE APPROVED IN 30 SECONDS!
You Invest This: ............................................You Save This: $ 50.00-$99.00 .............................................................$5.00 $ 100.00-$199.00 ........................................................ $10.00 $ 200.00-$299.00 ...................................................... $15.00 $ 300.00-$399.00 ..................................................... $25.00 $ 400.00-$499.00 ..................................................... $45.00 $ 50.00-$699.00 ....................................................... $65.00 $ 700.00-$999.00 ..................................................... $85.00 $ 1,000.00 or More .................................................. $100.00
rt Po
RosnerFord.com 855-445-9167
Please Call for Your Appointment! ALL SERVICES INCLUDE A COMPLIMENTARY MULTI-POINT INSPECTION AND CAR WASH!
FUSION ROSNER BONUS BUCKS
+ New 2015 Ford + STK#1769F + + + + A MONTH A MONTH + *84 month term *84 month term + at 3.24% APR at 3.24% APR + with $2,500 due with $2,500 due + at signing. at signing. + +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ + New 2014 New 2015 + STK#1652F Ford Ford STK#1824F + + Was $35,315 + NOW $27,815, + A MONTH + *84 month term + at 3.24% APR. + OFF MSRP + DOWN +
$
as the 2014 Domain Civilian of the Year,” she said. “The CSCS domain illustrates what an organization should consist of; a hardworking, inspirational team dedicated to its mission and I am very grateful to be part of such a team. As a public affairs specialist, each event, visit, article, media interview, and other public relations activity are essential to the command because it is an opportunity for CSCS to inform others about who we are, our goals, and the future of surface combat systems. CSCS is a training command that shapes the Sailors of today and tomorrow and it is a privilege to tell its story. I hope I have been a successful narrator for not only CSCS itself, but for also the men and women in uniform.” The Center for Surface Combat Systems’ mission is to develop and deliver surface ship combat systems training to achieve surface warfare superiority. Its staff oversees 14 learning sites and provides almost 70,000 hours of curriculum for close to 700 courses a year to more than 40,000 Sailors. The training center uses a mix of blended learning comprised of instructor led classes, hands-on labs, simulation and computer-based training.
F
O
R
D
MUST QUALIFY FOR ALL ELIGIBLE FACTORY REBATES AND DEALER INCENTIVES; DEALER TO RETAIN ALL. 0% APR AND $0 DOWN AVAILABLE ON APPROVED CREDIT. PRICES INCLUDE ALL FACTORY REBATES AND DEALER INCENTIVES AND MUST FINANCE THROUGH FORD MOTOR CREDIT CORPORATION, NOT ALL WILL QUALIFY. PRICES EXCLUDE TAXES, TAGS, FREIGHT �$795�$1,195�, AND $699 PROCESSING FEE. OFFERS CANNOT BE COMBINED. ALL VEHICLES SUBJECT TO PRIOR SALE. PICTURES FOR ILLUSTRATION PURPOSES ONLY. SERVICE COUPONS NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. MUST PRESENT COUPON AT TIME OF PURCHASE. COUPON DOES NOT APPLY TO PRIOR PURCHASES. OTHER RESTRICTIONS MAY APPLY. SOME MODELS SLIGHTLY HIGHER. SEE DEALER FOR COMPLETE DETAILS. OFFERS EXPIRE 3/15/2015.
6
February 2015 • THE SOURCE
Navy gives CSCS five training awards Kimberly M. Lansdale Center for Surface Combat Systems Center for Surface Combat Systems was named a recipient of five 2014 Naval Education and Training Command Training Excellence Awards for superior accomplishment supporting NETC’s training vision Feb. 2. The annual award recognizes commands that demonstrate the highest standards of training excellence and produce highly trained, top-quality sailors who are mission ready and meet the needs of the Fleet. The award is composed of three categories: The Learning Center Training Excellence “T” Award, the Training Support Center Training Support Excellence “TS” Award, and the Functional Excellence Awards. CSCS received the Business Administration and Support (Yellow “T”), Total Force Management (Red “T”), Curriculum Management (Black “T”), Training
Production Management (Green “T”), and Training Support Management (Bronze “T”) awards. “CSCS continues to excel in making combat systems training better for Sailors and the Fleet,” said CSCS Commanding Officer Capt. Bill McKinley. “These training awards illustrate the perseverance, strong work ethic, and enthusiasm of the CSCS staff throughout our headquarters and 14 learning sites.” The Center for Surface Combat Systems mission is to develop and deliver surface ship combat systems training to achieve surface warfare superiority. CSCS headquarters’ staff oversees 14 learning sites and provides almost 70,000 hours of curriculum for close to 700 courses a year to more than 40,000 Sailors. The training center uses a mix of blended learning comprised of instructor led classes, hands-on labs, simulation and computer-based training.
REAL ESTATE AUCTION 3-Bedroom Home on 3+ Acres in Eden Estates
Home Tour: Friday, March 20, at 10 a.m.
• Brick Ranch on double lot • Sunroom, basement, garage • New Roof (2012) • Near 301, NSWC
Call Kelly Strauss - (540) 226-1279
Also check out The Journal’s Spring Auto Section coming in March featuring stories such as trading in your car in the New Year, and more.
Center for Surface Combat Systems sailors take part in AEGIS training.
Submitted photo
THE SOURCE • February 2015
COME TO THE 26th
C
RAFT
March 7th & 8th Sponsored by the
FREE PARKING & ADMISSION King George High School 10100 Foxes Way • King George, VA 22485
We Hope To See You There! Interested in reserving and exhibition booth? Interested in advertising opportunities?
Journal
The
7
8
February 2015 • THE SOURCE
SAILOR from page 1 He went on deck and was assigned to carry wounded sailors to safety before being ordered to the bridge to aid the mortally wounded ship’s skipper, Capt. Mervyn Bennion. Despite enemy strafing and bombing and in the face of a serious fire, Miller assisted in moving his mortally wounded captain to a place of greater safety, He later manned and operated a 50-caliber Browning anti-aircraft machine gun until he ran out of ammunition and was ordered to abandon ship. During the attack, Japanese
1
#
aircraft dropped two armoredpiercing bombs through the deck of the battleship and launched five 18inch aircraft torpedoes into her port side. Though Miller had been temporarily assigned to Secondary Battery Gunnery School on the USS Nevada 18 months prior to the attack, he was not trained on the 50-caliber Browning. Miller’s description of firing the gun is described in records of PearlHarbor.org. “It wasn’t hard,” he said. “I just pulled the trigger and she worked fine. I had watched the others with these guns. I guess I fired her for
Firm In Virginia For The Past 10 Years
“I just pulled the trigger and she worked fine. I had watched the others with these guns. I guess I fired her for about fifteen minutes.”
Petty Officer Doris “Dorie” Miller
about fifteen minutes. . . . They were diving pretty close to us.” He was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary courage in battle by Admiral Chester Nimitz on board USS Enterprise at Pearl Harbor on May 27. In presenting the medal, Nimitz said, “This marks the first time in this conflict that such high tribute has been made in the Pacific Fleet to a
member of his race and I’m sure that the future will see others similarly honored for brave acts.” His next assignment was to the newly constructed USS Liscome Bay. Miller was killed when the carrier was torpedoed and sunk Nov. 24, 1943 during Operation Galvanic in the Gilbert Islands. In addition to the Navy Cross, Miller’s awards also include the Purple Heart, the American Defense Service Medal with Fleet Clasp, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. Miller was born in Waco, Texas in 1919. He had three brothers and worked on his father’s farm. He was a fullback on his high school football team and became the heavyweight-boxing champion on the USS West Virginia. A Knox Class frigate was commissioned the USS Miller in
his honor Jun, 30, 1973. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority dedicated a commemorative bronze plaque of Miller at Miller Family Park, U.S. Naval Base, Pearl Harbor Oct. 11, 1991. On Feb. 4, 2010 Miller was one of four sailors honored in a grouping of four distinguished sailor stamps issued by the U.S. Postal Service. Miller’s legacy still impacts African-American sailors. Rear Adm. Rick Williams, commander of the Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific, reflected on Miller’s actions in his African-American History Month message this year. Chief Mass Communications Specialist Sam Spain lauded Miller as one of the African-American’s who paved the way in a Naval District Washington African America History Month article.
Our Newest Location In Colonial Beach
Expanding our services to the community Schedule your OB/GYN appointment with Dr. Brian Josephs, Community Care Clinic Medical Director, starting Sept. 24, every Wednesday, from 1 to 4 p.m.
African-Americans have long history of serving in the military Advanced Care for Women Women’s issues, OB/GYN, Hormones
Call (540) 625-2527 11131 Journal Pkwy. King George, VA 22485
U.S. Navy photograph/National Archives
Miller, seated left, talking with three other sailors and a civilian, during his visit to a Naval training station in January 1943. He is wearing the Navy Cross medal, awarded for heroism during the Pearl Harbor attack.
Community Care Clinic is a 24/7 TLC not for profit 501 (c) 3 organization
U.S. Archive records indicate African-Americans served alongside Colonists from days of the Continental Navy during the American Revolution. During the Civil War, about 18,000 African Americans served as sailors in the Union Navy. These sailors are included in the National Park Service’s Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System. The Navy had never been segregated until soon after President Woodrow Wilson took office. In 1913, Wilson segregated the U.S. Armed Forces. Segregation in the Navy continued throughout World War II when most African Americans were relegated to jobs as stewards
or mess men. During Worl War II, the Navy integrated the USCGC Sea Cloud and USS Mason, ships commanded by white officers with AfricanAmerican crews. Eleanor Roosevelt, President Franklin Roosevelt’s wife, was a catalyst for integration and insisted African-American sailors be given jobs for which they were trained. In 1946, the Navy adopted a policy of integration and equal rights for African-Americans. However, the policy was not initially widely implemented. African-American enlistments dropped severely during 1947 and President Harry S. Truman formed a committee that recommended
sweeping reforms and called for ending segregation in the military. In 1948, Truman signed Executive Order 9981 ordering the integration of the armed forces. The Defense Department Personnel Policy Board drafted a policy to abolish all racial quotas and fully integrated the services by July 1, 1950. The Navy proposed a recruiting program to enlist African-Americans. By February 1952, AfricanAmericans became a minority in the Navy’s Stewards’ Branch. Integration was fully implemented throughout all U.S. service branches by time the country entered the Korean War. — Marty Van Duyne