Flagship 03.14.2024

Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm.

Jim Kilby visited the Huntington Hall Navy Exchange Mini Mart in Newport News, March 5

ByTellyMyles

include: 1) Patrons must be 18 years or older; 2) Patrons younger than 18 must be supervisedbyaparentorlegalguardian;3) Guestsarenotpermittedaccess;4)Access to saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools, and aquatic spaces is not permitted. Prior to instituting unstaffed fitness facilities installation commanding officers must conduct initial operational risk assessment to be certified by the base’s safety office and develop a standard operation procedure in order to ensure the safety of Sailors and other authorized patrons Formoreinformation,Sailorsandfami-

lies can contact their installation MWR fitness center Commander, Navy Installations Command is responsible for worldwide U.S.Navyshoreinstallationmanagement, designinganddevelopingintegratedsolutions for sustainment and development of Navy shore infrastructure as well as quality of life programs CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions, 70 bases, and more than 43,000 employees who sustain the fleet, enable the fighter, and support the family FollowCNIConsocialmedia:Facebook, Facebook.com/NavyInstallations; X, @ cnichq; and Instagram, @cnichq

make sense it is the right thing to do for the quality of life of our Sailors and other service members.”

Military personnel stand duty at varying hours of the day, including night shifts, depending on their roles and responsibilities. As a result, service members often had difficulty getting to the MWR gym during normal business hours and were forced to find alternatives

“Maximizing access to fitness facilities makes it more convenient for our Sailors,” Gray said. “We all know that exercise benefits one’s physical health, but it also reinforces mental, emotional, and social health, which are important for our Sailors’ overall wellbeing.”

Fitness centers may be staffed or unstaffed outside normal business hours

For the safety of patrons several restrictions will be implemented while fitness centersareunstaffed These

ByTellyMyles

Cheatham Annex receives prestigious award from the Virginia Water Environmental Association

ByMaxLonzanida Naval Weapons Station Yorktown

YORKTOWN Va The award winning EnvironmentalDepartmentatNavalWeapons Station Yorktown-Cheatham Annex garnered another prestigious accolade on Monday, March 4th. Installation EnvironmentalProgramDirector,JeffKissleralong with Wastewater Program Manager Jason Oliver were on-hand in Harrisonburg, Virginia to accept a Platinum Level Award for Environmental Excellence awarded by the Virginia Water Environment Association(VWEA).

Specifically, Cheatham Annex was selected as a recipient for the Platinum LevelAwardforEnvironmentalExcellence bythe(VWEA)forCalendarYear2023inthe category of Industrial Waste and PretreatmentEnvironmentalExcellence.Thisisthe first such award for any Navy installation in the Hampton Roads District awarded by the VWEA Both Kissler and Oliver made the drive to Harrisonburg on the morning of Monday, March 4th from Yorktown to accept the prestigious award during the VWEA’sannualconference

Nominations for the awards are made throughout the Commonwealth by the public owned treatment works, and locally by the Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD).Theconditionsforthenomination and award include consistent achievement of a 100% compliance rate with the issued pretreatment permit requirements and regulations for a minimum of five years in thePlatinumLevelCategory,andademonstration of dedication and commitment to pollution prevention (P2), waste reduction/elimination, or conservation through the implementation of an Environmental ManagementSystem(EMS).

NavalWeaponsStationCheathamAnnex currently holds one of the longest continuous compliance records within the Tidewater Region of Virginia and the HRSD operatingarea,withover20yearsofcontinuouscompliancewiththeindustrialwastewaterpermitandregulations.

In2023,HRSDhonoredCheathamAnnex (CAX)forexemplarypermitcomplianceand outstandingpollutionpreventionmeasures in calendar year 2022. HRSD recognized CAX and other area installations and businesses who treat their wastewater before discharging it into HRSD’s system. This effort helps protect waterways and other natural resources within the region. HRSD recognizedCAXwithaDiamondExcellence Award for Pollution and Prevention (P2) in 2023 for perfect compliance from 20032022; one of the longest standing perfect compliance records thus far NWS York-

towngarneredaPlatinumAwardforperfect compliance from 2018-2022. In 2023, JEB Little Creek-Fort Story also received a P2 DiamondExcellenceAwardfortheirpollutionandpreventioneffortsfrom2010-2022. HRSD awarded Gold awards for pollution and prevention to Naval Support Activity-Hampton Roads’ Portsmouth Annex, NavalAirStationOceana’sDamNeckAnnex and to Coast Guard Training Center Yorktownaswell. AbouttheVirginiaWaterEnvironmental Association (VWEA). VWEA is a member association of the Water Environment

Federation (WEF) and collaborates with many other industry organizations, such as WEF and the Virginia Section of the American Water Works Association. VWEA currently has more than 1,750 WEF and VWEAmembers Theirincludecivil&environmental engineers biologists chemists local&stategovernmentofficials,treatment plant managers and operators, laboratory technicians, students, professors, environmentalscientists,equipmentmanufacturers &distributors

CourtesyStory U.S.CoastGuardDistrict5

PORTSMOUTH,Va

received an

indicating radio beacon(EPIRB)alertfromthe19-footsailingvesselLhorOneatapproximately6p.m. Sunday. Fifth District watchstanders alerted marinersintheareatobeonthelookoutfor thesailorsandconductedaqueryofvessels fromAutomatedMutual-AssistanceVessel Rescue(AMVER).Thewatchstandersalso directed the launch of a Coast Guard Air Station Elizabeth City North Carolina HC-130 Hercules airplane crew to assist.

The airplane crew arrived on scene at 4:45 a.m. Monday and established communications with the mariners, who reported they were taking on water after a lightning strike reportedly cause a hole in their vessel. The aircrew also directed the 505-foot motor vessel Frio Ionian, an AMVERparticipatingship towardthesailing vessel’s position.

TheFrioIoniancrewarrivedonsceneat 10a.m andsafelytransferreda20-year-old and24-year-oldmalefromtheLhorOneto themotorvesselwithnoreportedinjuries

“This rescue was quite a distance from landandthesuccessfulrescueoftwomarinerswasonlypossible becauseofthecrew of the Frio Ionian’s participation in the AMVER program,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Starr Franklin a watchstander with theFifthDistrictcommandcenter “Toput thedistancefromshoreinperspective,the mariners were roughly the same as if you drovefromPortsmouth,VirginiatoOdessa, Texas,neartheTexas-NewMexicoborder.” AMVER

ByCapt.AngelicaWhite

26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable)

U.S. Marines and Sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (26th MEU(SOC)), will be returning home, marking the end of an eight-month deployment serving as the Tri-Geographic Combatant Command crisis response force Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Mar. 16-19, 2024 Media are invited to the 26th MEU(SOC)’s homecoming events as the Marines and sailors arrive back at their homebasesinCherryPoint,NewRiver,and Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Saturday, Mar. 16 2024 Marines and Sailors assigned to the 26th MEU(SOC)’s AviationCombatElementwillfly-offAV-8B Harriers from the USS BATAAN (LHD 5) to Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. This marks the last time VMA-231 will deploy AV-8Bs Harriers with a Marine Expeditionary Unit as they transition to F-35s

Monday, Mar. 18 2024 Marines and Sailors with Battalion Landing Team 1⁄6 Combat Logistics Battalion 22, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced),andCommandElementarescheduledtoreturntoCampLejeune,Mar.17-19, following an eight-month deployment at sea across the U.S. European Command, U.S. African Command, and U.S. Central Commandareasofresponsibility The26th MEU(SOC)MarineAir-GroundTaskForce (MAGTF)willoffloadfromtheshipsofthe Bataan Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) onto Onslow Beach, North Carolina via Landing Craft Air Cushions (LCACs) and via helicopters to Goettge Field House, Camp Lejeune for the 26th MEU(SOC)’s Homecoming Event, where they will be met and welcomed by their friends, family and loved ones waiting for their arrival.

Moreover, the Aviation Combat Element Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced) will fly-off the ships of the BataanAmphibiousReadyGrouptoMarine Corps Air Station New River This deployment marked the first time a MEUwiththeSpecialOperationsCapable (SOC) designation has been employed in over two decades While deployed, more than 4,000 Marines and sailors supported a wide range of interoperability training

exercisesandoperationswithintheU.S.5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations; covering the High North, Baltic Sea, Eastern Mediterranean ArabianGulf RedSea,and Middle East.

The 26th MEU(SOC) supported operationsandengagements,conductedtheater security cooperation activities, bilateral training with our NATO Allies and partners,andexecutedsustainmenttrainingto ensure the force was ready and posture to respond to crisis in the region.

Tiltrotor Squadron 162 (Reinforced). The Marinesandsailorsofthe26thMEU(SOC) deployed aboard the flagship Wasp-class amphibiousassaultshipUSSBataan(LHD 50), the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) and the Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50).

of theater requirements of the Geographic Combatant Commander Coupled with the BAT ARG, the 26th MEU(SOC) serves as a premier stand-in forcewithafullcomplementofall-domain capabilities to operate persistently within thelittoralsorweaponsengagementzones of an adversary Media interested in attending these events, must RSVP no later than 5 P.M., Mar. 14 to 26th MEU(SOC) Communication Strategy and Operations Officer, Capt. Angelica White at angelica.white@usmc. mil or 910-378-5199 26th MEU(SOC) returns home from eight-month deployment MEDITERRANEAN SEA(Feb 25 2024)TheWasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5),Harpers Ferry-class docklanding ship USS CarterHall (LSD 50),SanAntonio-class amphibious transport dockship USS MesaVerde (LPD 19),andArleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyerUSSArleigh Burke (DDG 51) transit in formationwith the United Kingdom primarycasualtyreceiving ship RFAArgus (A135) in the Mediterranean Sea,Feb.25.The BataanAmphibious ReadyGroupwill be transferred to NATO command in the Eastern Mediterranean in order to conduct a series ofshort noticevigilance activitieswith elements ofAllied Maritime Command’s Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 and the Turkish Navy (U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYMASSCOMMUNICATIONSPECIALIST2NDCLASSMATTHEWF.BROWN)

The 26th MEU(SOC) is comprised of BattalionLandingTeam1⁄6 CombatLogistics Battalion 22, and Marine Medium

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JCTE

ByRussStewart Naval Supply Systems Command

The battle cry of “Navy chefs Navy pride!” echoed through the MacLaughlin Fitness Center on Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia, as the team of 12 Navy Culinary Specialists neared the finish of their final challengeofthe48thannualJointCulinary TrainingExercise(JCTE).

“Besides my life-long love of cooking I chose to be a CS because of events just like this,”saidCulinarySpecialist3rdClass(CS3) MaxDelices,fromUSSGeraldR.Ford(CVN 78). “Competitions push our limits, help us grow, one day, I could be cooking for the president.”

This year’s training event has 200 military personnel from installations and activitiesaroundtheworldaswellasalliedforces teamsfromFrance GermanyandtheUnited Kingdom.

The JCTE, administered by the Joint Culinary Center of Excellence, is the largest American Culinary Federation (ACF) sanctioned competition in North America, showcasingthetalentofmilitarychefsfrom around the globe in all branches of the U.S. ArmedForcesandforeignmilitaryteams

This exercise promotes growth in the culinary profession with a focus on tenets in modern culinary development-ability, practicality, nutrition, workmanship, economy,presentation,creativity,andconcept.

“ForNavyFoodService,thegoalforsending Sailors to competitions such as JCTE is for their professional growth and honing their talents which they will take back to their units where they can have a direct impact to the morale of their shipmates,” said Cmdr Brian Bieber Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) director of NavyFoodService.

The Navy Food Service Program is part of NAVSUP and provides operational and financial policy guidance designed to improve the quality of life for Sailors by

Navy chefs Navy pride

ensuringourNavygeneralmessesefficiently andeconomicallydeliverhigh-qualitynutritious foods that exceed customer expectations NAVSUP’s responsibilities include managing the Navy’s supply chain, including the procurement, storage, and distribution of materials and equipment; providing financial and accounting services for the Navy; managing Navy-owned and leased real estate; and overseeing the Navy’s food serviceprograms NavyCulinarySpecialists(CS)areresponsible for preparing and serving meals for Navy personnel both onshore and at sea. They play a critical role in maintaining morale and ensuring that sailors are wellfedandreadytoperformtheirduties

“IalreadyknewIwantedtobeaCSbefore I joined,” explained Culinary Specialist Seaman (CSSN) Katorya Karl, from USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). “I wanted to meet people and show everyone they can enjoy the job without being intimidated by the hours, we can make a difference whateveryourrate.”

Culinary Specialists in the Navy are trainedinallaspectsoffoodservice,including menu planning, food preparation, sanitation, and nutrition. They work in galleys (kitchens)onships submarines andatNavy basesaroundtheworld.

Becoming a Navy Culinary Specialist requirescompletingbasictraining,followed byculinaryschooltrainingattheJointCulinary Center ofExcellenceinVirginia.After completing training, Culinary Specialists canbeassignedtoavarietyofdutystations, including ships submarines and shorebasedfacilities

In addition to preparing meals for Navy personnel, Culinary Specialists may also have the opportunity to work in other food service roles outside of the Navy, including aschefs,restaurantmanagers,andcaterers.

The U.S. Navy Culinary Arts Team (NCAT) is made up of CSs from Navy food

serviceteamsfromacrosstheglobe Selected through a series of try-outs last year this year’s competitors are: Culinary Specialist 1stClass(CS1)ZackaryBishop,FleetLogistics Supply Squadron One (VR-1); Culinary Specialist 2nd Class (CS2) Samuel Babativa, USS Essex (LHD 2); CS2 Haiwen Wu, PCUJohnF.Kennedy(CVN79);CS2Lucas Howell, Naval Support Facility Thurmont; CS2 Rey Vincent Martinez, USS O’Kane (DDG 77); CS2 Jonathan Ortiz Naval Air Station Jacksonville; CS2 Ricardo Thomas USS Cole (DDG 67); CS3 Larry Burns, USS Essex (LHD 2); CS3 Max Delices, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78); CS3 Kyiramarie Vizcarrondo,JointBasePearlHarbor;CSSN MalachiCottingham,USSMustin(DDG89); CSSN Katorya Karl, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75); along with their team managers, MasterChiefCulinarySpecialistEricJohnson fromtheJointChiefsofStaffserviceand ChiefSubsurfaceCulinarySpecialistDouglas Chatlose, from NAVSUP Fleet Logistics CenterNorfolk.

“Funding the culinary training at JCTE is one of the best investments the Navy can make. The competition provides an opportunity to raise culinary excellence, professionalismandcompetence Theknowledge gainedbyCSsparticipatinginJCTEistransferred back to the fleet when Sailors return to their commands The return on investment is significant as the Sailors cross train counterparts and raise food service standards fleet-wide,” explained Chief Warrant Officer 5 Harrison Wright III, NAVSUP Food Service Operations Officer “Lastly, thecompetitionunitesculinaryteamsfrom all branches of the U.S. military along with international military teams This is an invaluable opportunity for our Sailors to learn, network and enhance culinary skills inajointenvironment.”

Competing at JCTE can also bring severalbenefitstothewinningteamandits members

The competition yields recognition and

prestigeandcanleadtoincreasedopportunitiesfortheteammembers suchascareer advancement and job opportunities in the culinaryindustry

Another benefit of the competition is the opportunity to represent the military in international culinary competitions WinningtheJCTEcompetitioncanqualifya teamtocompeteintheCulinaryWorldCup, aprestigiousinternationalculinarycompetition held in Luxembourg. This can be a significant opportunity for military chefs to showcase their skills and represent their countryonaglobalstage

“I wish someone would have told me aboutalltheopportunitiesthatwouldopen up to me,” said Bishop “I could never have imagined all the different directions that beingaCShasbrought.”

The JCTE competition is also known for its rigorous judging criteria, which emphasizes not only the taste and presentation of the dishes, but also the military-specific aspects of food service, such as the ability to cook in the field and maintain strict food safetyandsanitationstandards

The JCTE teams are not competing against each other but against the culinary industry standards The events showcase thechefsintimedcookingchallengessimilar to the television shows “Chopped” or “Iron ChefAmerica.

The challenges include mobile kitchen trailers, student-only teams, themed table displays, individual contemporary cooking and pastries, a nutrition-based meal and an internationalchallengewhereteamsoftwo createamealfromamysterybasket.

Theexerciseencouragesknowledgesharingbetweenmilitaryservicesandalliedand partner-nation armed forces By sharing techniques and information, participants bring back an expanded variety of meal optionsandstylestotheirhomecommands

“Feeding people makes a big difference, one good meal and people will know your name,”sharedMartinez.

NAVSUP FLC Norfolk awarded Blue “E”

ByJimKohler NAVSUP FLC Norfolk

The NAVSUP FLC Norfolk Regional Supply Office (RSO) Oceana Team earned the 2023 Commander Naval Air Forces AshoreSupplyExcellenceAward(Blue“E”)

The Blue “E” is awarded to naval air stations and naval stations with aviation support detachments (ASD) that demonstrate excellent quality and efficiency as judgedbyacomprehensivesupplymanagement inspection. “I couldn’t be prouder of our Oceana team,” said Commanding OfficerCapt.MartinEdmonds.“Thisawardisa testamenttotheirhardworkandtheirdedicationinsupportingfleetoperations.”

According to Oceana Regional Supply Officer Cmdr Paul Kloepping, the RSO/ ASD Oceana team is comprised of 162 Sailors civilians and contractors. “The proper placementofcivilianandmilitarypersonnel provides continuity and a source of knowledge in key work centers for the revolving military, which creates a cohesive and knowledgeable work force that breeds success,”saidKloepping.

The Blue “E” award is reflective of the dedication of the military, civilian, and contractedsupportworkforcewhotogether support Commander Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic(CSFWL)and16fightersquadrons accounting for over 200 individual aircraft with an inventory of 11,363 line items, a

depthof110,000lineitemsvaluedat$446.2 million. “They annually process more than 40,000 issues valued at nearly half a billion dollars and more than 66,000 direct turnover(DTO)andstockrequisitionsvaluedat morethan$1billion,”saidKloepping Throughoutthecalendaryear,airstations are evaluated on a wide variety of criteria, and must score at least 89 percent on their SupplyManagementInspection(SMI)tobe consideredfortheBlue“E.”

“We received a grade of excellent on the FY24SupplyManagementInspectionwith ascoreof94.66,”saidKloepping.

Kloepping explained the Commander Naval Air Forces (CNAF) Ashore Supply Excellence Award is not just a onetime

inspection. “It’s a yearlong endeavor that takestheentireteamtocontinuallyprovide exceptional flight line support, meet CNAF goals month after month and ensure the operation is always inspection ready,” he added. “With 13 consecutive Blue “E” awards, the greatest challenge is ensuring RSO/ASD Oceana doesn’t become complacentandcontinuestotrainandself-assessto improvetheoveralloperationandsupportto thewarfighters

“I’m incredibly proud of the hard work each member gives day in and day out to support the mission and the warfighters,” saidKloepping “Thisawardisarecognition ofthathardwork.”

ByPublicAffairsOffice

Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport

NEWPORT, R.I. Two Naval Undersea WarfareCenter(NUWC)DivisionNewport employeesrecentlyearnedtheDepartment of the Navy (DON) Meritorious Civilian Service Award, the third highest honorary civilian award bestowed by the U.S. Navy John “Jack” W. Hughes, command diving officerintheRanges,EngineeringandAnalysis Department, and Michael Gozzo, a submarinecommunicationsengineerinthe UnderseaWarfareElectromagneticSystems Department, received their awards from CommandingOfficerCapt ChadHennings duringaceremonyheldonFeb.7.

Hugheswasrecognizedforhisoutstanding achievements from September 2018 to September 2023 as the technical program manager for the Engineering and Diving SupportUnit(EDSU)andcommanddiving officer.

“Throughout his 32-year Navy career Hughes has demonstrated exemplary leadership and technical aptitude in all his endeavors,”theawardstates.

Over the past five years, under Hughes’ leadership, the EDSU conducted 179 dives

on 28 different boats and 659 dives in supportofotherNavyprojects Hugheshas created a successful program that deploys this highly technical team across the globe to deliver complex engineering solutions and support, the award states “Whether conducting essential repairs on submarine towed array handling systems, validating new technologies, or supporting the Naval Special Warfare community, EDSU excels underHughes’guidance.”

Atrustedadvisortoseniorleadershipfor nearly two decades, Hughes manages the EDSUanditsdiversemissionsetswithskill and balance “With an eye to the future, he is dedicated to developing the Navy’s next generationofdiversandleaders,”theaward states

Gozzo was recognized for his achievementsastheleadengineerfortheLowBand UniversalCommunicationsSystem(LBUS) atDivisionNewportfromSeptember2021to September2023.

“Over the past two years at Division Newport, Gozzo has built a reputation as an exceptional technical leader and subject matterexpertintheLBUCSShoreTransmit System configuration management, system modernization and the LBUCS Receive

prototypedevelopment,”theawardstates

With more than 35 years of Navy experience,Gozzotookonthechallengeofrallying a geographically dispersed team and tackledthetechnicalchallengesthattheLBUCS system presented with outstanding results. In a short period of time, he successfully turnedaroundaprogramthatwasindanger of failing and made it into a model program forUnderseaCommunicationsandIntegrationProgramOffice(PMW770).

As the lead engineer, Gozzo led a team of more than 75 people located at more than 20 sites throughout the globe and brought extraordinary engineering expertise and discipline to the team, the award states In less than three months into his tenure, he rallied all of the cross-functional team members around one common goal and drove them to execute the first-ever softwareupdateforLBUCSTransmit,whilealso addressingrequestsfromvariousstakeholdersuptothefour-starlevelofU.S.Navyleadership “He restored confidence from the fleet thanks to his consistent, honest and effectivecommunication, theawardstates NUWC Newport is the oldest warfare center in the country, tracing its heritage

to the Naval Torpedo Station established on Goat Island in Newport Harbor in 1869

Commanded by Capt Chad Hennings, NUWC Newport maintains major detachments in West Palm Beach, Florida, and AndrosIslandintheBahamas aswellastest facilitiesatSenecaLakeandFisher’sIsland, New York, Leesburg, Florida, and Dodge Pond,Connecticut.

Joinourteam!NUWCDivisionNewport, one of the 20 largest employers in Rhode Island, employs a diverse, highly trained, educated, and skilled workforce We are continuously looking for engineers scientists andotherSTEMprofessionals aswell as talented business finance logistics and othersupportexpertswhowishtobeatthe forefront of undersea research and development Please connect with NUWC DivisionNewportRecruitingatthissite-https:// www.navsea.navy.mil/Home/Warfare-Centers/NUWC-Newport/Career-Opportunities/ and follow us on LinkedIn @ NUWC-Newport and on Facebook @ NUWCNewport.

Surface Combat Systems Training Command

announces Domain Civilian of the Year

ByKimberlyLansdale

Surface Combat Systems Training Command

DAHLGREN Va Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCSTC) recently announced its Domain Civilian of theYear(COY)for2023

Mr Mat Swanson, a program analyst for SCSTC’s technical support department, N9, was selected for this high achievement. Swanson was selected as Civilian of theQuarterforthefirstquarterof2023and HeadquartersCOYfor2023

“Matserved23yearsasasonartechnician before retiring from active duty,” said Capt. GeorgeA.Kessler,Jr.,SCSTC’scommodore “Even though he no longer serves aboard a ship, he continues to shape America’s Warfighting Navy His efforts ensure our warfighters possessthetacticalandtechnical competence and proficiency needed to execute across the spectrum of operations in today’s challenging environment. Mat is an invaluable asset to the SCSTC team and SurfaceForce. Swanson,whohasbeenpartofSCSTCfor three years, says he is appreciative to work withateamthatiscommittedtoitsSailors

“This award is a direct reflection of the hard work that our amazing team executes daily,”hesaid.“I’mhonoredtobepartofan organization that trains warfighters at the tipofthespear.”

As the anti-submarine warfare (ASW) trainingsystemsleadforN9,Swansoncoordinates ASW inputs for system upgrades and development for Surface Training Advanced Virtual Environment Combat Systems (STAVE-CS) training systems including Combined Integrated Air and Missile Defense ASW Trainer ASW Tactical Employment Trainer and ASW Virtual Operator Trainer He also has begun the process of coordinating requirements working groups for Constellation (FFG 62) class frigates’ ASW systems with Naval Sea SystemsCommandandothersubjectmatter experts Swanson is the domain’s lead Program ObjectiveMemorandum(POM)actionofficer(AO)aswell.Hisdailyinteractionswith SCSTC’s resource sponsor staff Surface Warfare Division, N96, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, and surface training stakeholders are critical in acquiring the funding needed to train our Sailors so they

canremainthebestwarfightersintheworld. HeisrecognizedasoneofthemostdependableandeffectiveSurfaceWarfareTraining Committee (SWTC) AOs and is sought out by senior leadership and his peers for guidanceonSWTCprocesses

Mr LarrySharp,SCSTC’sN9directorand Swanson’s supervisor, praises Swanson’s effortsanddedication

“Mat has demonstrated exceptional

leadership skills and technical expertise throughouttheyear,notablyinhiskeyroles draftingSCSTC’sPOMsubmissions,executing STAVE-CS / Ready Relevant Learning initiatives and providing training device requirementsanalysisandproductionmonitoring,”hesaid.“Mat’seffortshaveensured warfighting readiness and his selection is a reflectionofhiscommitmenttothetraining mission.”

Inadditiontohisduties,Swansonserved as the command’s onsite lead AO at the Surface Navy Association’s (SNA) National Symposium. “SCSTC has been an exhibitor at SNA’s NationalSymposiumforeightyearseducating the Surface Force, Cuttermen, and industry partners on how we are adapting and implementing innovative ways to train America’sWarfightingNavy,”explainedMr Brian Parker, SCSTC’s executive director “Matplayedanintegralroleinensuringour message for future resourcing was heard by key stakeholders Clearly his numerous contributions toward SCSTC’s growing training mission and drive to go above and beyond have been instrumental across the domain and to the Surface Force. Mat’s selection as SCSTC’s Domain COY illustrates his perseverance, selflessness, and commitment to delivering warfighting excellence.”

ThecriteriaforSCSTC’sDomainCivilian oftheYearAwardincludessuperiorservice in support of the command and its mission, notable contributions to the training and development of Sailors, and demonstrated professionalisminhisorherassignedduties Surface Combat Systems Training Command(SCSTC),headquarteredinDahlgren Virginia, falls under the Naval EducationandTrainingCommand(NETC),ledby Rear Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko As the owner of the Force Development pillar within MyNavy HR, NETC recruits, trains and delivers those who serve our nation, taking them from “street to fleet” by transforming civiliansintohighlyskilled,operational,and combatreadywarfighters.SCSTCisatraining organization that consists of 15 global learning sites and detachments Its mission istoprovidetheU.S.Navyandourallieswith highlytrainedwarfighterstomaintain,operate, and tactically employ surface combat systems across the spectrum of operations Annually, SCSTC delivers training to over 37,000U.S.NavySailorsaswellas700internationalSailorsfrom27partnernations.

For information about Surface Combat Systems Training Command, visit https:// www.netc.navy.mil/SCSTC VisitSCSTConFacebook https://www.facebook.com/SurfaceCombatSystemsTrainingCommand

ByMassCommunicationSpecialist2nd ClassJosephT.Miller

NORFOLK,Va NavalStation(NAVSTA) Norfolk’s Morale, Wellness and Recreation (MWR)departmenthelpedspreadthe“luck of the Irish” this year at their annual Saint Patrick’s Day 5K at Vista Point Conference Center aboard NAVSTA Norfolk, March 8, 2024.

“We’ve had this event running for a few years now, said Anthony Benning, MWR fitness director “What really sets this race apartisitkicksoffourbusyseason Wehave a lull in events from September to January, so this lets us start the season out right and givesusanopportunitytoreallygetrolling.”

Over 300 participants, made up of

NAVSTA Norfolk personnel, their families, andotherNAVSTANorfolkvisitorsarrived at the starting point at Vista Point. Upon arriving, runners were able to visit booths fromMWRandBuschGardens,andenjoya photoareaandaliveDJ,providedbyMWR. Racers were encouraged to wear green at the event, many of which wore various themed outfits and costumes One of these festive runners Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Alfred Cody, assigned to Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), wore a costume, which had some deepermeaningotherthanjustbeinggreen.

“So the idea to wear this was from my command,” said Cody “The Kearsarge’s mascot is an alligator. So I wore this [costume] to match the race theme but to

alsohonormycommand. The 5K officially kicked off at 10:50a.m. and participants took off down Massey Hughes Drive, toward the rest of the 5K track. The racing crowd of green passed by variouslocationsaroundNAVSTANorfolk, including the ship piers, Dillingham Blvd. also known as “Admiral’s Row” and theMWRNorfolkNavalSailingCenterand Marina.

At11:08a.m.,Lt BrandonHicks,assigned to the Pre-Commissioning Unit for Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128), completed the course and crossed the finish line at Vista Point,within18minutesand28seconds “This was a tough race,” said Hicks “The cold air and the wind were the worst

parts but I’m a Sailor and we are ready for anything.”

Other quick racers, such as Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Chief of Staff, Capt.DavidDees,andCody,followedHicks and the majority of the racers followed withinthenext10to20minutes.

After the completion of the 5K, MWR passedoutwaterfortheracerstoenjoy and inside Vista Point served an Irish-themed lunch, which included cabbage and corned beef. With another successful 5K in the books, NAVSTANorfolk’sMWRlooksaheadtoits other Saint Patrick’s Day themed run, the Shamrock Shuffle 5K Fun Run, scheduled forlaterthismonth.

Navy scientist Gladys West helped develop GPS

82 years of Seabee excellence: Honoring a legacy of construction and service

ByLt J.G.CamilaHealey Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va The U.S. Navy Seabees renowned for their expertise in naval construction and engineering and unwavering commitment to service, celebratedtheir82ndanniversarythisweekend in Norfolk at the Hampton Roads Seabee Ball where service members across area commands honored their community’s rich history and enduring legacy. Organizersvotedtoalsohonorthe50thanniversary of the Underwater Construction Teams at this year’s ball, acknowledging the service and sacrifice of the Seabee diving communitysincetheirinceptionin1974

“AsSeabees,werecognizetheimportance of camaraderie, tradition, and celebrating our achievements,” said Cmdr Matthew Lenzer, a Civil Engineer Corps officer assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command staff and lead planner for this year’s Hampton Roads Seabee Ball. “This year’s Seabee Ball is an opportunity for us to come together, reflect on our accomplishments, and renew our commitment to service As we honor our past and embrace thepresent,wealsoaimtoinspirethefuture as we gather to commemorate the values thatmakeusproudtobeSeabees.”

Although the Navy designated the first construction battalion in January 1942 to fulfill the immediate need for the construc-

tionofafuelingstationonBoraBorasothat ships and planes could continue defending open sea lanes towards Australia, the term “Seabee” was not coined until March 5, 1942

TheSeabeesquicklybecameanindispensable asset to the U.S. military during World War II due to their ability to rapidly construct vital infrastructure in war-torn regions Their efforts earned them a reputation as the Navy’s premier builders and solidifiedtheirplaceinmilitaryhistory

“For 82 years, the Seabees have been an integral part of the Navy’s mission,” said Seabee Master Chief Robert Balmaceda, NECC Staff Senior Enlisted Leader “From 1942 with men at a range of ages from all construction trades, to today’s men and women who specialize in our seven Seabee ratings. We have upheld our motto, ‘With compassion for others, we build, and we fightforpeacewithfreedom.’”

Mr Ken Stethem, the brother of Steelworker Second Class Robert Stethem who died in a terrorist attack while serving with UnderwaterConstructionTeamOne served asthekeynotespeakerforthisyear’sevent.

“The depth of Rob’s courage and resolve in the face of overwhelming adversity by cowards who had nothing more against Rob than the fact that he represented the best that America has to offer,” said Stethem. “He was young, he was strong, he was proud,yethewasalsokindandhumble-the reachandthepowerofRob’sspiritisableto touchothersheart,andtheirspirit,andthis

is how he continues to inspire all who hear hisstory.”

In June 1985, Stethem and four other membersofUnderwaterConstructionTeam One were returning to the U.S. from overseasdutyaboardTransWorldAirlinesFlight 847 when terrorists hijacked the flight and divertedittoBeirut,Lebanon.Theterrorists singledoutStethemasaNavySailorandbeat and tortured him to persuade him to meet their demands Stethem’s heroic refusal to aidtheterroristsultimatelyledtohisdeath. Stethem was posthumously promoted to Second Class Petty Officer and later to MasterChiefConstructionman(CUCM)for makingtheultimatesacrificeinthedefense of freedom and his fellow Americans Stethem was also awarded the Bronze Star and thePurpleHeartforhisheroism.

In his honor, the Navy commissioned the USS Stethem (DDG 63) on October 21, 1995, in Port Hueneme, Calif., as the thirteenth Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer ThecrewofUSSStethemcarries onthelegacyofStethem,alongsidetheNaval ConstructionForce,withtheirmotto“SteadfastandCourageous”tohonorhissteadfast devotiontodutyandcourageousservice

“Thecostoffreedomissacrifice,”saidKen Stethem. All Americans should know Rob’s storyandrememberhissacrifice Whenwe failtorememberRob’sstory,andotherswho have sacrificed their lives for our freedom we don’t dishonor them we dishonor ourselves.”

its 2023 Military Instructors of the Year

ByJamesStockman Naval

Education and Training Command

PENSACOLA, Fla. Naval Education and Training Command’s (NETC) recognized its 2023 Military Instructors of the Year(MIOY)duringaceremonyatNavalAir StationPensacola,Florida,March6,2024.

The 2023 MIOY awardees include:

„ Junior Enlisted Operations Specialist 2nd Class Japonica Stallings, Surface CombatSystemsTrainingCommandGreat Lakes,Illinois „ Mid-Grade Enlisted Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Brandonjoe Juan, Information Warfare Training Command (IWTC)VirginiaBeach,Virginia.

„ Senior Enlisted Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Equipment) Dayne Walton, Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes,Illinois „ Officer Lt Amanda Brown, IWTC VirginiaBeach,Virginia.

„ Navy ROTC Capt. Amish Smith, Navy ROTCUnitUniversityofIdaho/Washington StateUniversity

“These instructors are an exclusive and elite group the very best our Navy has to offer, each playing a critical role in ensuring that when the Navy fights, we will fight andwindecisively,”saidNETCCommander

Rear Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko. “Every instructor,andtheseinparticular,haveakey responsibility to increase the lethality and survivability of our naval forces Our goal is todeterouradversariesandawell-educated andtrainedSailoristhecompetitiveadvantageourNavyandtheUnitedStateshasover anyenemy.”

Instructors serving throughout the MyNavy HR Force Development domain competed against nearly 11,000 top achieversforthisprestigiousdistinction.

“The five awardees demonstrated superiorsustainedperformanceintheirinstructorroles,excellingasleadersandmentorsat their respective commands while actively engaging with their commands and local communities,” said NETC Force Master ChiefRickMengel.

NETC recruits, trains and delivers those who serve our nation, taking them from “street to fleet,” by transforming civilians intohighlyskilled,operational,andcombatreadywarfighters For more information about NETC, visit thecommand’swebsiteathttps://www.netc. navy.mil/ and follow the command’s social media: Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/NETCHQ Instagramathttps://www instagram.com/netc_hq,Xathttps://twitter com/NETC_HQ and LinkedIn at https:// www.linkedin.com/company/netchq/

Sincetheirinceptionin1942,theSeabees continuetoprovideawiderangeofmilitary construction and advanced general engineering support to operational commanders around the world in competition and conflict. The Naval Construction Force enables infrastructure improvement projectsincludingroadwayestablishment,boat rampconstruction,pierandmooringinspections, and water well installations. In crisis, they can provide expeditionary and rapid airfield damage repair and port damage repair capabilities in support of distributed maritimeoperations.

“Forthepast82years theNavalConstruction Force provided naval engineering and construction capabilities to the United States and our allies and partners where andwhenitmatteredmost,”saidRearAdm. Brad Andros, commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command. “As we look to the future, I have no doubt the Seabees will continuetheirlegacyofservicetotheFleet, bridgingthegapfromseatoshorewiththeir ‘Can Do’ attitude and operating in the most challengingofenvironments.”

The Naval Construction Groups, RegimentsandBattalions,servewithintheNavy Expeditionary Combat Force, who provide capabilitiesincomplexandaustereenvironments for the Navy For more information aboutNECCandourunits,visitourwebsite: https://www.necc.usff.navy.mil/

NORFOLK,Va (March 2,2024) Mr Ken Stethem (left),Hampton

Military to Mariner: Transitioning to a rewarding maritime career after service

By Bill Mesta USN Military Sealift Command

NORFOLK, Va. — All service members have one thing in common; whether you are an officer or enlisted member, single-term or careerist, regardless of branch of service; you will eventually transition out of the military.

For many, transitioning out of military service can be challenging and scary, particularly when taking how you are going to ensure future income and professional satisfaction into consideration. One option for service members is to take advantage of the Military to Mariner Program, which provides service members an avenue to obtain credentials to become a U.S. Merchant Mariner, while still on active duty, separated or retired.

“The Military to Mariner program helps active duty and reserve service members, Coast Guard civilian employees and veterans smoothly transition to civilian employment in the maritime industry,” according to Lt. Cmdr. Jim Fasoli, Military to Mariner Program Manager, U.S. Coast Guard Force Readiness Command. “It’s a valuable initiative aimed at leveraging military skills into civilian mariner roles.”

A U.S. Merchant Mariner, credentialed by the U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center, is someone deemed safe, suitable, and compliant to sail aboard U.S. flagged ships with national security requirements. This certification enables individuals to serve on federally regulated vessels, contributing to the nation’s maritime activities.

The U.S. Merchant Marine community needs you. As a credentialed U.S. Merchant Mariner, you could sail aboard Military Sealift Command’s fleet of 140 civilian crewed ships or you could seek employment with one of the numerous U.S. flagged commercial shipping companies.

“SWSC’s Military to Mariner Program is designed to maximize the extent to which naval service, training, and qualifications are creditable toward merchant mariner licensing and certification,” stated Kara Krenisky, Military to Mariner Program Manager at Surface Warfare Schools Command. “For those transitioning out of active-duty service, but still want to pursue a career either at sea or in operations related to sea-going vessels, a civilian mariner license will afford them the opportunity to do so. Pursuing a license while active duty provides Sailors the opportunity to submit applications free of charge and use naval experience towards licensing requirements.”

U.S. Merchant Mariners are required to obtain and maintain U.S. Coast Guard certifications and licenses, which can be earned while on active duty via the Military to Mariner Program.

“Through the Military to Mariner Program, we work to assist service members in navigating the application process, collecting the right service record documents, and ensuring the Fleet is aware of the capability to translate Naval service to civilian credentials,” Krenisky said. “A large part of this program is getting current Navy training and qualifications certified as meeting the USCG National and International Standards of Training for mariners. In doing so, we are ensuring Sailors receive top-notch instruction, making them better prepared and professionally knowledgeable through high standards.”

The U.S. Merchant Mariner community wants military Veterans to join its ranks.

“Veterans bring a wealth of valuable skills and discipline acquired during their military service, making them assets in maritime roles,” said Fasoli. “The adaptability, leadership, and problem-solving abilities cultivated in the military contribute significantly to their success in civilian maritime endeavors.”

“Military Veterans are assets to the U.S. Merchant Mariner community as they have already proven their physical and mental ability to serve, as well as the experience gained from military service provides a background in commitment, trustworthiness, and work ethic,” Krenisky added.

As with many professional development opportunities, it can be difficult to figure out just where to begin.

“While on active duty, service members interested in transitioning into the Merchant Marine should proactively engage in the credentialing process,” Fasoli stated. “Early completion of the Mariner Credential application is encouraged, providing insight into the sea-time evaluation process. The U.S. Coast Guard’s Credentialing Assistance benefit, offering $4,500 per year for eligible service members, is a helpful resource throughout one’s military career.”

“Documentation of sea time, advanced qualifications, and pursuing merchant mariner credentials while active duty are the best method of preparing to transition in the future,” added Krenisky. “The earlier service members pursue U.S. Merchant Mariner credentials during their service the better, as they progress, they will be able to continue using sea time and experience to either upgrade their license or pursue additional

qualifications.”

The National Maritime Center credits military members for their time attached to a vessel at 60%.

“Which means from the day they checked in to the day they checked out of a vessel, 60% of that time can count towards sea time,” Krenisky stated. “You should keep copies of advanced qualification designation letters, like Officer of the Deck and Engineering Officer of the Watch, as well as a copy of their History of Assignments and all fitness reports and evaluations.” Interested service members seeking information about the Military to Mariner Program should contact their Career Counselor and their chain of command. Also, please go to https://www.milsuite. mil/book/groups/swsc-military-to-mariner-program for more information about the program or visit the Navy COOL/USCG COOL website Military to Mariner pages. You can contact Kara Krenisky, Military to Mariner Program Manager at Surface Warfare Schools Command at karalin.l.krenisky.mil@ us.navy.mil or Lt. Cmdr. Jim Fasoli, Military to Mariner Program Manager, U.S. Coast Guard Force Readiness Command at CGM2M@ uscg.mil for additional information.

“There are a number of resources out there for those interested in becoming U.S. Merchant Mariners,” according to Krenisky. “Navy COOL offers a Blueprint to Mariner for Sailors transitioning, as well as their MilGears tool allows for Sailors to generate a template sea service letter based on their service record documents. The U.S. Department of Transportation (https://www.maritime.dot.gov/ outreach/military-mariner) offers information for veterans looking to pursue a career in the Merchant Mariner community.”

The National Maritime Center website is the source for application, licensing, and testing information is an additional information resource:

https://www.dco.uscg.mil/national_maritime_center/ is also a valuable reference.

“For service members considering a transition to the U.S. Merchant Mariner community, early engagement is key,” Fasoli concluded. “Leveraging the U.S. Coast Guard Credentialing Assistance benefit and seeking assistance from the Military to Mariner program can significantly ease the transition process. Understanding the credentialing process, sea-time evaluation, and potential training requirements can lead to a successful and rewarding career in the civilian maritime sector.”

Q:

A:



(PPV)

Housing is also referred to as privatized housing in the Navy. The Navy partnered with different private management companies to provide housing to Service Members. These companies are responsible for the construction, renovation, maintenance and day-to-day management of the housing. PPV housing may be located on or off government property and in most cases will be former military housing.

 Government Owned (also known as Military Housing or Navy Managed Housing is what was formerly called on-base housing.

While only available in limited quantities CONUS, Government Owned Housing is still widely available OCONUS.

 Community Housing is any housing that a Service Member may choose that is not PPV or government operated. This is housing outside of the base that is privately owned and operated.

NAVY HOUSING

Norfolk: 757.445.2832

JEBLCFS: 757.462.2792

Oceana/Dam Neck: 757.433.3268

Yorktown: 757.847.7806

Mid-Atlantic Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) programs and services are designed to help you make the most of your military experience, and they’re all available to you at no cost.

FUNCTIONS

U.S. Naval War College celebrates spring 2024 graduation

CourtesyStory U.S. Naval War College

Newport, R.I. The U.S. Naval War College (NWC) celebrated its in-residence spring graduation onboard Naval Station Newport,March6th

Theceremonyhonoredatotalof41graduating officers from the U.S. Navy, Army and Marine Corps Graduates included 16 studentsfromtheCollegeofNavalWarfare’s (CNW)senior-levelleadershipprogramand 25fromtheCollegeofNavalCommandand Staff’s (CNCS) intermediate-level leadershipprogram

“Take the knowledge and experience youhave gainedhereasanewlensthrough which to view the challenges you will inevitably face,” said Rear Adm. Peter Garvin, president of NWC, as part of his charge to the graduates “Further, seek opportunities to interact with others whose specialties andviewpointsdifferfromyourssoyoucan innovate,whichisthekeytofuturesuccess.”

The U.S. Naval War College (NWC) holds its spring graduation ceremony for the College of Naval Warfare (CNW) and

CollegeofNavalCommandandStaffMarch 6,2024,onboardNavalStationNewport,R.I.

Selected by students to provide the keynote remarks, William S. Murray, directoroftheHalseyBravoAdvancedResearch Program and professor in NWC’s Strategic and Operational Research Department reminded graduates of the need for perpetualpreparednessthroughcontinuouslearning “Inthisageofartificialintelligence,hypersonicmissiles,andtheoccasionalpandemic, youmakebetterwartimedecisionsbyreading deeply and broadly,” he advised. “By reading you’llbecomebetterthinkers better analysts, better writers, better officers and more capable wartime leaders. It is a surefirepathtoself-improvement.

The ceremony highlighted Cmdr TimothyK.Battles,U.S.Navy,fromCNWandMaj. Christopher M. Salerno, U.S. Army, from CNCS, both having earned the President’s HonorGraduateaward.

The ceremony also spotlighted several other students for their outstanding academic performance including three students receiving highest distinctions for

rankingamongthetop5%oftheirclassand sixstudentsreceivingdistinctionsforrankingamongthetop15%.

Equippedwiththeabilitytopreparestrategicallyforthefuture,manygraduateswill assume leadership roles at staffs around the world, including Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) in Virginia Beach, VA; U.S. Second Fleet in Norfolk, VA;JointRegionMarianasinAgana,Guam; Third Marine Division in Okinawa, Japan; NavalReactorsinWashingtonD.C.;andU.S. PacificFleetinPearlHarbor,Hawaii Others will take command of ships, squadrons and otherunitswheretheirmentalstrengthand flexibility can be used to create a decisive warfightingadvantage.

NWC students participate in a one-year graduate-level program that accommodates either in-resident or distance learning status They earn Joint Professional Military Education (JPME) credits and either a diploma or a master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies or DefenseandStrategicStudies Graduatesare comprisedofU.S.andinternationalofficers intheNavy,MarineCorps,Army,AirForce,

Space Force, Coast Guard, and various U.S. civiliangovernmentagencies

BothCNWandCNCSprogramsadvance the core teachings of NWC and prepare studentstothinkcritically,strategically,and operationally in military and civilian environments Each program attracts officers and civilians at varying levels in pursuit of greaterresponsibility:seniorlevelforCNW andintermediateforCNCS Established in 1884, NWC is the oldest institutionofitskindintheworld.Morethan 50,000studentshavegraduatedsinceitsfirst classofninestudentsin1885andabout300 oftoday’sactive-dutyadmirals generalsand seniorexecutiveserviceleadersarealumni. Since creating a program for international officers in 1956, the college has more than 4,500 international alumni from 137 countriesworldwide.Approximatelytenpercent of these alumni have become chief of their country’srespectivenavy

To access a recorded video of the graduation ceremony, visit the NWC YouTube Channel.

DLA Aviation’s top civilian

controls small aircraft squadron

ByNatalieSkelton Defense Logistics Agency Aviation

A love of aviation that took root early in Charlie Lilli’s life stemmed from his father, a doctor who enjoyed flying planes in his privatetime

“Almost every Thursday, his day off, we flew to Scranton [Pennsylvania] to see my grandmother,” said Lilli, now the deputy commander of Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, the military’s primary source for aircraftparts

Whilechildhoodflightswithdadprovided the initial spark; marrying into a family of careerpilotsasayoungmanwasthejetfuel that flared Lilli’s transformation into a true aerophile

“My father-in-law was in the Army Air CorpsduringWorldWarII,whereheserved as a mechanic,” Lilli said. “After his service, he joined Pan Am and worked his way up from mechanic to international pilot flying 747s Mybrother-in-lawwasanF-14pilotfor theNavy,aswell.

As fate would have it, less-than-perfect vision kept Lilli himself out of the cockpit. Butthatdidn’tholdhimbackfromcompleting a successful 28-year career as a Navy Supply Corps officer with the rank of rear admiral. Nor did it stop him from pursuing hisdreamsofflightinotherways

“Back in 1982 I was living in Virginia Beach[Virginia]withmywife,andmybrother-in-law was there, he said. “Between the

two of us, we decided we were going to fly radiocontrol,sowebothboughtairplanes.” Lilli and his brother-in-law flew their RC planes regularly until the birth of Lilli’s oldest daughter he has two turned his modeling room into a nursery He was only abletoresumethehobbyyearslater.

Priortohiscurrentjob,Lilliwasthedirector of Sustainment and Supply Chain IntegrationforLockheedMartin.Beforethat,his last active-duty assignment was as director of Supply Ordnance and Logistics OperationsintheOfficeoftheChiefofNavalOperations Aswithpotatochipsandchallengecoins, Lillicontendsthatyoucan’thavejustoneRC aircraft.Forty-plusyearsafterhisinaugural RC flights, his private squadron now boasts 25planesandhelicoptersofvaryingsize.

“It’sacollectionofallkindsofairplanes,” he said. “There are some scale models of WWII aircraft I have a Navy [F-4U] Corsair; a P-49; a T-28 which is a Navy trainer;andaP-51 Allofthoseareequipped with flaps, lights and all kinds of good stuff, such as retractable landing gear and full automation.”

OfLilli’sRCplanes,hesaidhisT-28Trojan istheeasiesttofly

“It’s[usedfor]aerobatics,soIreallyenjoy flying that one,” he said. “I have a bunch of what they call aerobatic aircraft. Some of them are made to look like regular planes that fly, but others are just made to fly and do wild things in the air They can do what

iscalled3Dflight,soit’salotoffun.”

Lilli explained that 3D flight capabilities allowtheplanetohoverlikeahelicopteron its propeller enabling the pilot to turn and spin the plane in several directions at high speed maneuversthatareoutofreachfor moretraditionalRCplanes

As an RC pilot, Lilli said the biggest challenge he faced was getting back into the hobbyafteralengthyhiatus.

“When I came back to flying after being awayforsolong IwasinTexaslivingneara golfcourse,”hesaid.“Whenyoustartflying again after not doing it for a while they can getawayfromyou.

“Thatisthehardestpart:tryingtorememberhowtoflyandwatchingairplanescrash Inthepast15years,Imusthavecrashed10to 15airplanestothepointtowheretheycan’t berepaired.”

Lillisaidgradualadvancementsinmanufactured RC planes have reduced the likelihoodofcrashlandings andapilot’swallet alsotakeslessofahitthesedays

“When I first started flying, putting an airplaneintotheairtookaboutfourmonths of building, and it was more than $500 between the radio and the actual airplane,” he said. “Now, you can buy one out of the box for less than $200, fully assembled and with a radio The airplanes are equipped withallkindsofsafetyfeatures.Ifyoumake a mistake or get one out of kilter you can pushabuttonanditwillstraightenitout.It’s a lot easier than watching it hit the ground

anddestroyitself,forcingyoutostartallover again.”

Lilli now shares his love of flying with the next generation of aviation enthusiasts,creatingRCairshowsnearhishometo showcasestuntflyingforinterestedfamilies andneighbors Hesaidheenjoyspassinghis knowledgeofflyingRCplanestootherswho wanttodiveintothehobby.

“I’d say find someone who already flies; it’salotcheaperthatway,”hesaid,drawing a comparison to two-seater trainer aircraft commonlyusedinthemilitary whichallow new aviators to fly with a seasoned instructor “RCplanesnowcomewithwhatiscalled abuddysystem,whereyoucanconnectyour radio to a new pilot’s radio, fly the airplane with a push of a button, then turn it back over to the student pilot,” Lilli said “If they get into trouble, take it back and straighten itout.”

Even with all the attention paid to his flying, Lilli also invests plenty of time in his other hobbies: golfing, bowling and classicalguitar.

“It’s all about work-life balance,” he said, alsoadmittingthat“onceyourkidsgrowup and leave, you have more time to spend on hobbies.” Nonetheless Lilli still sees his daughters often Both women are Navy officers like their father and medical professionals like theirgrandfather

Dark shores to new horizons Iwo Jima survivor’s story

ByLanceCpl DavidBrandes&

his comrades was missing something: his head.

“That kind of woke me up to what we were getting into,” said the nearly 100-year-old Cpl. Donald Raasch, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran.

Raasch, one of the few men still with us today who fought on the island, shared his 14-day experience battling on the black sands of Iwo Jima.

His journey began after he graduated Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego in 1943 Hewas then assignedto 26th Marine Regiment, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Division on Hawaii, where preparations were made to take Iwo Jima from the Imperial Japanese Army. It was on Feb. 19, 1945, Marines began landing on the eightsquare-mile island, coming to full strength at 70,000 but the Japanese outnumbered U.S. forces more than three to one

Although, when Raasch landed, he said he didn’t see many Japanese They “scurried” to conceal themselves in caves and underground tunnels to observe U.S. forces approach on the volcanic island. Even so, contact was imminent.

“And then I had a little play-catch with a Japanese in a bunker,” he said.

Raasch explained how he slipped a grenade off his belt and threw it into a bunker He waited for some sort of explosion but heard nothing He took a chance to peer over the peak, only to see that same grenade hurling back at him. Thankfully in this case he had a habit of taping the ignition latch to prevent unintended explosions Raasch had forgotten to remove the tape before tossing the grenade As that grenade rolled toward him, he picked it up, peeled the tape off, and threw it back.

“All I saw was his hat flying off in the distance,” he said. “So, I figured his head must be up with it.”

Sometime later, while biding their time on one of the island’s steep ridges Raasch and the other Marines heard a whistling from the sky He and his team instinctively jumped to the ground as mortar fire rained down and the Marines found themselves caught in a pitched battle with the cacophony of screams, explosions, shouts,

and gunfire. “It exploded behind me and it knocked me out,” he said. “I guess what woke me up was somebody hollering ‘corpsman, corpsman!’

The yelling came from Cpl. Brown, a Marine who Raasch credits for saving his life, but one he never saw again after leaving the island.

“He’s the one that got the corpsman to come over,” Raasch stated simply

The almost century-old Marine explained that as the corpsman was taking care of him, he saw Brown leaning against one of the nearby ridges, noticing that the corporal also needed some medical attention as his leg had been blown off Raasch was shocked Brown still called for his aid.

Raasch was eventually transported back to California to recover from his injuries He received treatment for his left arm, the only part of which he could move was his thumb, he said. Surgery and recovery took over a year, and he was awarded a purple heart. Soon after, he found himself leaving the military and trying to acclimate to civilian life in Nebraska. For the next 15 years, he worked for a local power company as a lineman and engineer “climbing polls,” as he said it. “I just put [Iwo Jima] in the back of my mind, he said somberly “You know, when you get back to civilization again, you have to find yourself a job like anybody else to make a living.”

To this day, he continues to share his 14-day story of Iwo Jima with his family members and others

“I do still go through my old books with some of my brothers’ children and talk about that with them,” he explained. “They like to know that kind of stuff.”

Raasch’s story gives us insight of the battle from his point of view but taking a step back shows us how significant his experience is Nearly 40 percent of the U.S. Marine force were killed or wounded during the 36-day battle;about6,000 were killed and another 20,000 were wounded. Raasch counts himself among one of the few who had the luck to make it home alive. As the toll U.S. forces were severe the Marines officially seized the island on March 26, 1945, boomed by acts of uncommon valor Symbolic as it was to raise the flags on the volcanic island, taking Iwo Jima also laid a path for the U.S. to destroy Japanese airfields, aiding in the outcome of World War II.

Now, it’s been almost 80 years after the Battle of Iwo Jima, and Raasch is one of the very few men alive today to tell firsthand experiences of the bloodiest battle in Marine Corps history

For more information on the Battle of Iwo Jima and others during the Pacific War, visit the National Museum of the Marine Corps’ website at https://www usmcmuseum.com/battle-of-iwo-jima. html.

Editor’s note: Accounts like Cpl. Raasch’s are rare and grow increasingly harder to come by At nearly 100 years old, there are not many left from his generation to share their stories and memories Ourteamwasfortunate to learnaboutCpl. Raasch and even more fortunate to speak with him over the phone on two occasions. Unfortunately there are still many details we missed or could not confirm. We’ve been unable to reach Raasch or even the people who put us in touch with him. Given the chance, we want to detail his story further and learn more about his time after the Corps. Cpl. Donald Raasch’s sacrifice and those of his fellow Marines deserves to be recounted. If you have any information on Cpl. Raasch or other Marines with untold stories please contactourofficeatqpublicaffairs@gmail. com or call our office at (703)784-2704

CourtesyStory Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Chemical and Biological Technologies Department Drug formulation and route of administrationarekeyfactorsfortherapeuticeffectiveness and require as much, if not more, consideration as the active pharmaceutical ingredient. For a therapeutic to be highly effective, it must be able to quickly reach the site of infection to deliver agents that eitheractdirectlyonthepathogenoracton processes that help to rapidly mount host defenses, and this is greatly influenced by drugformulationandadministration

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s (DTRA) Chemical and Biological Technologies Department in its role as the Joint Science and Technology Office (JSTO) for ChemicalandBiologicalDefense,anintegral component of the Chemical and Biological DefenseProgram investedwithscientistsat theDefenceScienceandTechnologyLaboratory (DSTL), an executive agency of the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom, to harness the potential of non-ionic surfactantvesicles(NISVs)totransformthe

field of drug delivery NISVs, also known as niosomes,aredistinctfromotherlipid-based particles; instead, they are formed from synthetic non-ionic surfactants comprisingahydrophilicouterlayerandhydrophobic core. These amphiphilic molecules can entrapbothhydrophilicandlipophilicmolecules, making them ideal for encapsulating a wide range of therapeutic compounds, including anticancer agents, antibiotics, antivirals,andmore

Priority biological threat agents and the diseasestheycausebringuniquechallenges to the development of effective therapeuticsandtreatmentplans Forinstance,alphaviruses (a genus of RNA viruses that cause encephalitis) localize to the brain, which makes them inaccessible to most therapeuticsthatcannotcrosstheblood-brainbarrier, renderingpotentiallypowerfultherapeutics ineffective.

Similar challenges occur in attempts to treatotherbiothreatswhentryingtodeliver drugs across the gut to reach other specific bodysites Itcanbedifficulttofacilitatethe movement of some therapeutics across gut tissue resulting in inabilities to reach the

site of infection and ineffective treatments. In austere environments where biothreat scenariosoftenoccur therouteofadministrationiscriticaltoaddressthethreatinsult adequately and quickly Without access to proper medical equipment, intravenous administration of drugs is unfeasible and, asaresult,oraladministrationispreferred. NISVs improve upon the concept of conventionalliposomesbyenhancingstability,biocompatibility,anddrug-releaseduration whilereducingtoxicity Thesurfaceof thesetinysphericalstructurescanbeeasily modified to enhance their targeting ability, enabling drugs to be delivered directly to specificcellsortissues Thesefeaturesallow NISVstobypassphysiologicalbarriers,such astheblood-brainbarrier,whichhavepreviouslystifledtherapeuticdevelopmentprogress Additionally, this technology ensures encapsulated drugs reach their target sites intactandprotectedfromprematurerelease which minimizes systemic side effects and optimizestherapeuticoutcomes.

NISVs hold immense promise to transform the definition of an effective therapeutic With broadened possibilities for

more targeted and efficient drug administration, promising drug candidates that have hit experimental roadblocks due to low bioavailability or tolerability may have a second chance The versatility of NISVs demonstratesabroadrangeofapplicability beyond traditional pharmaceuticals, with immense potential for usefulness in other areas like gene therapy for the treatment of geneticdiseases. ThepathforwardforNISVdevelopment marks a significant milestone in drug delivery.Workisunderwaytocontinueoptimizing this promising technology to exploit its full potential via enhancing stability, refining drug release profiles, and improving targeting efficiency As scientists continue to unravel the entire suite of their capabilities,theapplicationofniosomes inthefield of medicine is expected to expand rapidly With the promise of enhanced therapeutic outcomes reduced side effects and improved patient care, NISVs represent a groundbreakingadvancementinthepursuit ofmoreeffectiveandtargeteddrugdelivery systemstobetterprotecttheJointForce,our nation,andourallies.

ByJosephClark

Navy scientist helped develop GPS

ByDavidVergun DOD News

Gladys West was among a small group of womenwhodidcomputingfortheU.S.military during the early days of the Cold War, including Defense Department work that eventually became the basis for the Global PositioningSystem.

The Navy hired West then Gladys Mae Brown in 1956 as a mathematician to do computerprogrammingandcodingatNaval ProvingGroundinDahlgren,Virginia.While there, she met fellow Dahlgren mathematicianIraWest,andtheymarriedin1957.

In the early 1960s, she participated in an award-winning, astronomical study that provedtheregularityofPluto’smotionrelativetoNeptune

From the mid-1970s through the 1980s West used complex algorithms to account for variations in gravitational, tidal and other forces that distort Earth’s shape She programmed the IBM 7030 computer, also known as Stretch, to deliver increasingly refined calculations for an extremely accurate model of the Earth’s shape, optimized for what ultimately became the GPS orbit usedbysatellites West was born in Sutherland, Virginia, on Oct. 27 1930 Her mother worked in a tobacco factory, and her father worked for therailroad.

Muchofherchildhoodwasspentworking onthefamilyfarm,butWesthadaspirations other than farming She wanted to become ascientist,soshestudiedhard,madeexcellentgrades,andearnedafullscholarshipto Virginia State College a historically Black publicuniversity

In1952 Westgraduatedfromtheuniversity with a Bachelor of Science degree in math.Shewentontoearnagraduatedegree in math in 1955 just prior to beginning her jobwiththeNavy WestworkedatDahlgrenfor42yearsand retiredin1998 ShelatercompletedadoctorateinpublicadministrationatVirginiaTech. WestandherhusbandliveinKingGeorge County, Virginia. They have three children andsevengrandchildren.

“I think that Dr West is another one of thosehiddenfiguresinourmilitarythatplay a critical role in the advancements that not onlyaffectedourabilitytofiremissilesaccuratelybutalsoenableeverydaylifewhenyou pickupyourphoneandyou’retryingtofind something,” said retired Navy Rear Adm. Sinclair Harris during a Dahlgren awards ceremonyforWestlastyear

Despite having helped to develop GPS West told the Atlanta Black Star news website that she still prefers using a paper

ByC.ToddLopez

DOD News

The Defense Department has in recent months advanced its goal of developing domesticsupplychainstoensurecontinued access totherareearthmaterialsneededto manufacture the permanent magnets used inimportantU.S.militaryweaponssystems “DOD’s recently published National Defense Industrial Strategy will guide the creation of a modernized defense industrial ecosystem,” said Laura Taylor-Kale, assistant secretary of defense for industrial base policy Taylor-Kale has a doctorate in management science and engineering with a specialization in organizations, technology and entrepreneurship from Stanford University’sSchoolofEngineering “Resilient supply chains are essential to thisgoal TheU.S.cannolongeraffordtorely onoverseas,single-points-of-failureforcriticalcomponents,”Taylor-Kaleadded.

Rare earth permanent magnets are not only essential components in a range of defense capabilities including the F-35 Lightning II aircraft, Virginia and Columbia class submarines and unmanned aerial vehicles, but also a critical part of commercial applications in the United States They

arealsousedtogenerateelectricityforelectronic systems in aircraft and focus microwaveenergyinradarsystems.

Since2020,DODhasawardedmorethan $439 million to establish domestic rare earth element supply chains. This includes separatingandrefiningrareearthelements mined in the U.S., as well as developing downstream stateside processes needed to convert those refined materials into metals andthenmagnets.

“DOD’s strategic investments are building capability at multiple stages of the rare earth supply chain and will provide a clear signaltoprivatecapitalthatthetimeisright tobuildadditionalresiliency, saidDanielle Miller, acting deputy assistant secretary of defense for industrial base resilience “We are on track to meet our goal of a sustainable, mine-to-magnet supply chain capable of supporting all U.S. defense requirements by2027.”

In addition to the F-35, Virginia and Columbia class submarines

mapwhenshedrives.

Her many awards and recognitions include:

„ Induction into the Air Force Space and MissilePioneersHallofFamein2018

„ TheWebbyLifetimeAchievementAward in2021.

„ The Prince Philip Medal by the United Kingdom’s Royal Academy of Engineering in2021.

„ The National Museum of the Surface Navy’sFreedomoftheSeasExplorationand

InnovationAwardin2021.

“TheNavystandsontheshouldersofthe geniusesthathavebeenadvancingourtechnology in the Navy We’re standing on Dr West’s shoulders to execute the mission of the United States,” said retired Navy Adm. Philip S. Davidson, former commander of U.S.Indo-PacificCommand,attheDahlgren awardsceremony.

Munition seriesofsmart bombs.The F-35, forinstance,requiresmorethan900pounds of rare earth elements. Each Arleigh Burke DDG-51destroyer requires 5,200 pounds, and aVirginia classsubmarine needs 9,200 pounds

Rareearthelementsarealsousedinother ways that don’tinvolvemagnets.Vehicle-mounted laserrange finders,such as those foundonAbrams M1A½ tanks,make useofrareearthelements,asdotheirportablecounterpartsandtargetdesignators.Also makinguseofrareearthelementsare;fiber opticscommunicationsystems;cerium-polished optical lenses;and sonic transducers usedinsubmarinesonarsystems.

Thereare 17 elements on the periodic table referredtoas“rare earth”elements WhileDODneedsnearlyalloftheminsome capacity,threeareusedtomakethepermanent magnetscritical to so manydefense systems.

Continued U.S. reliance on foreign sources forrareearth productsposes arisk tonationalsecurity.TheU.S.andmostofthe worlddependsonChinaformanyrareearth elements

ThroughtheOfficeoftheAssistantSecretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy,

the Manufacturing Capability Expansion and InvestmentProgram directorate has embarked on afive-year rare earth investment strategy to build “mine-to-magnet domesticcapacityatallcriticalnodesofthe rareearthsupplychain.Thosecriticalnodes include sourcing,separation, processing, metallization, alloyingand magnet manufacturing

Thefirstofthosecriticalnodes,thesourcing of rare earth elements,meansmining rareearthelementsoutoftheground.Today intheU.S.,thereisonlyonerareearthmine currently activeand sellingtothe commercialmarket.

Separation includes aseriesofprocesses thattakeoutextractablerareearthelements fromotherelementsandcompoundsinthe mineral rock. Processinginvolves concentrating separated rare earth elements and then chemically treatingthem to produce high-purity rare earthoxidesorrareearth salts.Themetallizationsteptransformsrare earth salts into rare earth metals.Depending on the application, those metals can be combinedwithvariousalloyingelementsto produceavarietyofrareearthalloys

Finally, rare earth magnets aretypically produced from alloysthat aresintered, or bonded,intomagnetblockandthencutand coatedaccordingtospecification.

It’simportantthatallthosecriticalnodes happen inside the U.S. so theDefense

Departmentcanhaveasecuresupplyofthe rareearthmaterialsandrareearthmagnets itneeds

Projects underway have already helped the U.S. establish growing capacity in rare earthelementseparationandprocessing,as wellasmagnetmanufacturing Among the U.S.-based companies involved in DOD’s“mine-to-magnets” initiativeisMPMaterials,whichisheadquartered in Nevada. With $45million in supportfromMCEIPawards,MPMaterials established the onlyintegrated rare earth mine and oxide productionfacility in the U.S. The companyisexpectedtocontinue to add capacity for additional oxide productsthrough2025,whentheyareprojected toreachfull-scaleproduction. Rightnow,domesticandpartnerdemand forrareearthmaterialsoutpacestheproduction of anysingle partner nation. To build resiliencyinthesecritical,earlystagesofthe supplychain,LynasUSA,LLCwasawarded acombined$288millioninMCEIP fundingtoestablishaseconddomestic,commercial-scale oxide production capability by 2026

MCEIP has alsoinvested $10million to explorethedevelopmentofextractiontechnologyandalternativesourcesofrareearth mineralsfromcoal ash, acid minedrainage andotherwastestreams

Noveon Magneticshas establishedarare

earth magnet manufacturing facilityinSan Marcos,Texas,with a$28.8 million award fromMCEIP.Thecompanyproducesqualified magnetsfromextracted or recycled material for both defense and commercial applications. An additionalaward of $2.3 million from MCEIPhas also helped TDAMagnetics to demonstrateacapabilitytosource,produce andsellqualifiedmagnetsintoDODsupply chains.

Finally,witha$94.1millionaward,E-VAC Magneticswillestablishacommercial-scale rareearthmagnetmanufacturingcapability by 2025.Aspart of this project, E-VACwill alsodevelop domestic capacitytoproduce rare earth metals and alloys, acritical node of thesupplychainlinkingearly-stage rare earthprocessingtomagnetproduction. These awards from the Defense Department areexpected to help develop the domesticmarketfor magnet production to servebothdefenseandcommercialmarkets. FutureMCEIPinvestmentsareexpected to focusonclosingremaining supplychain gaps and promoting integration among the tiers.DOD expects its support of these emergingcapabilitieswillattractadditional investmentinrareearthsfrombothdefense andcommercialmanufacturers.Withthese additional investments,the Department willbeabletomeet its futuredemandfor magnetswithoutoverseasdependencies

Come see what’s springing up at Norfolk Botanical Garden

PressRelease

Spring has sprung at Norfolk Botanical Garden! Daffodil Daze is in full swing with 500,000+ daffodils blooming throughout campus, to be followed by peak Azalea season in April. This May take a stroll through one of the largest rose gardens on the east coast featuring more than 250,000 blooms Connectwithnatureandexploreall NBGhastooffer

Coming this Summer, the Butterfly and VA Honeybee festivals are back, along with a new mushroom festival complementing oursummerexhibit-“FunkyFungi:Nature’s Curious Creations.” This sensational summerexhibitisyourVIPpasstothemagicalrealmofmushroomsandtheireco-awesomeimportance FromJunetoSeptember 2024, join the party and let the funky vibes guide you through a wild journey of mushroom madness Become enchanted at the

kaleidoscope of shapes, colors and superheroskillsthesefungirock!Giantsculptures and mind-blowing info panels will spill the beans on the wild relationships between mushroomsandplants,thevitalroleoffungi in nutrient cycling and how they throw the raddest parties in ecosystems Get ready to discowiththesmallbutmightysuperheroes ofnature!

Toaddtothegiantmushroomsculptures, artists are encouraged to create their own

uniquemushroomarttobedisplayedinside! Have a fun FUNKY outdoor sculpture idea or want to help NBG funk-ify the Baker Hall Visitor Center with an indoor work of art? Submit your application online (www norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/funky-fungi/) byMarch15andgetfunkywiththesemysticalmushrooms!

AboutNorfolkBotanicalGarden:Norfolk Botanical Garden represents an oasis of more than 65 themed gardens encompass-

ing175beautifulacres Fromstunningplant collectionstoWOW-WorldofWonders:A Children’s Adventure Garden, this diverse naturalbeautycanbeexploredbytram,boat, or walking tours. The Garden is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, recognizedasaVirginiaHistoricLandmark, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Virginia Green attraction.ItismanagedbyNorfolkBotanicalGarden,Inc.andsupportedbytheCityof Norfolk.NBGwasrecentlyvotedNewsweek Readers’ChoiceAwardWINNER–#3Best BotanicalGardenintheU.S.! ThemissionofNorfolkBotanicalGarden is to immerse visitors in a world of beauty, lead through environmental action, and inspire through education and connection tonature.Admissionis$16foradults,$14for seniors and military, $14 for ages 3-17, 2 and under are free For more information, visit www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org

Delightful Easter brunch recipes

Simple Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

RecipesubmittedbyLizShim

Supermoistcarrotcakestartswithfreshlygratedcarrots! These carrot cake cupcakes are tender, lightly spiced, and full of flavor Paired with a sweet and slightly tangy creamcheesefrosting,they’reaguaranteedcrowd-pleaser that will take any spring celebration from good to great! Customizeyourmix-insanddecorateasdesired.

Servings:

18 cupcakes

Calories: 337 | Fat: 16g

Carbs: 46g | Protein: 3g

Ingredients Cupcakes:

„ 1cupwhitesugar

„ 4ouncesunsweetenedapplesauce

„ ½cupvegetableoil

„ 2largeeggs,atroomtemperature

„ 1teaspoonvanillaextract

„ 1cupall-purposeflour

„ 1teaspoongroundcinnamon

„ 1teaspoonbakingsoda

„ ½teaspoonbakingpowder

„ ¼teaspoonsalt

„ 1½cupsfreshlygratedcarrots

„ ¼cupraisins(optional)

„ ¼cupshreddedsweetenedcoconut(optional)

„ ¼cupcrushedpineapple,drained(optional)

„ ¼cupchoppedpecans(optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

„ 1(8ounce)packagecreamcheese,atroom temperature

„ ½cupunsaltedbutter,atroomtemperature

„ 4cupspowderedsugar

„ 2teaspoonsvanillaextract

Decorations:

„ minimarshmallows,coloredsandingsugar,pearl sprinkles,and/orminichocolatecandiesasneeded

Directions Preheattheovento350degreesF(175degreesC).Line 18muffincupswithpaperliners Whisktogethersugar applesauce,oil,eggs andvanilla forcupcakesinalargebowl.Siftinflour cinnamon,baking soda, baking powder, and salt; mix until well combined. Add grated carrots, raisins, shredded coconut, crushed pineapple,andpecans;mixuntilfullyincorporated Scoop batterintothepreparedmuffincups,fillinghalfway

Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted inthecenterscomesoutclean,about15minutes Remove fromtheovenandcoolcompletely,about30minutes Meanwhile beat cream cheese and butter for frosting with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually mix inpowderedsugarandbeatuntilcreamy.Mixinvanilla.

Frost cupcakes when they are completely cool; if they are even slightly warm, the frosting will melt. Decorate asdesired.

Howtocreatemarshmallowflowers: Inafewsimplesteps,youcantransformthesecarrotcake cupcakesintoagardenofcolorfulflowers

„ Step 1: Grab some marshmallows Start with miniature marshmallows, either plain or fruit-flavored, as they tendtobeprettypastelcolors Usingacleanpairofkitchen shearsorscissors,cutthemarshmallowinhalfonthediagonaltocreatetwotriangularpetals

„ Step 2: Dip in sanding sugar. Dip the exposed interior of the marshmallow petals which will be sticky into colored sanding sugar or sprinkles to create the inside of thepetal Repeattheprocesswithvariouscolorsofsanding sugar and marshmallows until you have enough petals to coverthetopsofyourcupcakes Lizpointsoutthatthisis agreattimetogetfriendsorkidsinvolved.

„ Step 3: Craft your flowers Once you have enough petals,it’stimetobuild Grababutterknifeorsmalloffset spatula. Frost the tops of the cupcakes with your cream cheesefrosting takingthefrostingallthewaytotheedge of the cupcakes. It’s best to do this right before adding decorations,sincethisfrostingmayhardenorformaskin ifleftoutfortoolongandyourtoppingsmaynotstick.

Tocreatelargerflowers,startbyplacingaringofpetals, coloredsideupandflatsidedown,aroundtheedgeofthe cupcake.Workinfromthere,addingnewpetalsbetween twopetalsofthepreviousring,repeatingtheprocessuntil yourpetalsmeetinthemiddle

To create the center of the flower, place one or a few miniaturecoatedchocolatecandiesorpearlsprinklesright inthemiddle Tocreatesmallerflowers,simplyplaceone totworingsofpetalstowardsthecenterofthecupcake

Cook’s Notes: „ Threetofourlargecarrotsshouldyield1½cups grated.

„ Themix-insareoptional.Ifyou’reacarrotcakepurist, leavethemout Or usewhatwesuggest,orsubstitute whateveryouwant!

„ Tomakeahead refrigeratethefrostingovernight. Allowtocometoroomtemperaturebeforefrosting cupcakes

Easter Deviled Eggs

RecipesubmittedbyNancyClancy

Thesecolorfuleasterdeviledeggswilladdaspecialtouch to your easter brunch! They’re fun to do at baby showers aswell.Dosomeplainwhiteonestokeepeveryonehappy.

Servings: 12 (24 deviled eggs halves)

Calories: 87 | Fat: 6g

Carbs: 1g | Protein: 6g

Ingredients

„ 12largeeggs

„ ¼cupcreamysaladdressing(suchasmiraclewhip) „ ¼teaspoondrymustard „ saltandgroundblackpeppertotaste

„ hotsauce

„ 4dropsredfoodcoloring,ordesiredamount

„ 4dropsbluefoodcoloring ordesiredamount „ 4dropsgreenfoodcoloring,ordesiredamount „ 3cupswater,divided,orasneeded

Directions Placeeggsintoalargesaucepan;coverwithcoldwaterand bringtoaboil.Leteggsboilfor3minutes;turnoffheat,cover pot, and let eggs cook in hot water for at least 20 minutes. Drain and cover eggs with cold water Peel cooled eggs Cut hard-cooked eggs in half lengthwise and remove yolks; mash yolks in a bowl with creamy salad dressing, drymustard,salt,pepper,andhotsauceuntilsmooth Placered,blue,andgreenfoodcoloringinto3different bowlsandaddabout1cupwatertoeachbowl.Steep8egg whitehalvesineachbowl,tintingtheeggwhitespink,light blue, and green. If color is too pale, add more food coloring to bowls Drain colored egg whites on paper towels Pipeorspooneggyolkfillingintocoloredeggwhitehalves; coverandchillbeforeserving atleast30minutes.

Chicken Salad Easter Rolls

RecipebyNicoleMcLaughlin ThesechickensaladEasterrollsarethecutest,andthey’re a whole lot easier to make than they look. Crescent roll dough,chickensalad,andcelerytops,andthereyouhave it:Easteronaplatter

Servings: 8

Calories: 197 | Fat: 12g

Carbs: 13g | Protein: 9g

Ingredients „ 1(8-ounce)canrefrigeratedcrescentrolldoughsheet „ 12ouncespreparedchickensalad

„ 8smallleafycelerysprigs fromthetopsof1bunchof celery

Directions Preheattheovento375degreesF(190degreesC).Line abakingsheetwithparchment.

Tear 8 12x12-inch sheets of aluminum foil Fold each sheet into quarters Place left finger at the bottom left corner of each square and, using the right hand, roll each foilsheetintoaconeshape.Lightlycoateachconeincookingspray. Unrollcrescentdoughandcutinto81-inchstripslengthwise Starting at the pointed end, wrap each strip around thecones,overlappingthedoughveryslightlyasitwraps around. The dough will only go part way up the sides of the cone; this is okay Place each cone on the prepared bakingsheet Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 8-10 minutes Allow to cool slightly before carefully removing thefoilfromeachdoughcone.

Using a dull knife or spreader fill each cone evenly with chicken salad, pressing lightly to fill all the way to the bottom. Press a leafycelerystalk intothetopsof each rollandserve

Sugar 101: Whether you are looking to cut your sugar intake or confused by nutrition labels, a read on to become a more savvy consumer

ByAmericanHeartAssociation

Naturally occurring sugars and added sugars

There are two types of sugars in foods: naturallyoccurringsugarsandaddedsugars

„ Naturally occurring sugars are found naturally in foods such as fruit (fructose) andmilk(lactose).

„ Added sugars include any sugars or caloric sweeteners that are added to foods or beverages during processing or preparation(suchasputtingsugarinyourcoffee or adding sugar to your cereal) Added sugars (or added sweeteners) can include natural sugarssuchaswhitesugar,brownsugarand honey, as well as other caloric sweeteners that are chemically manufactured (such as highfructosecornsyrup).

Sources of added sugars

The major sources of added sugars in American diets are sugary beverages, desserts, sweet snacks, sweetened coffee, sweetenedteaandcandy.

Finding added sugars in food

ReadtheNutritionFactsonthefoodlabel to understand how much added sugar is in

afood.

„ Total sugars include both added sugars andnaturalsugars

„ Added sugars are the ones you want to limit.

„

Naturally occurring sugars are found in milk (lactose) and fruit (fructose). Any product that contains milk (such as yogurt, milkorcream)orfruit(fresh,dried)contains somenaturalsugars

Foritemssuchasgranulatedorpowdered sugar, maple syrup or honey that are sold as separate food products only total sugars maybelisted.However,youneedtobeaware thoseare100%addedsugars

If there is no Nutrition Facts label on a preparedfoodinthegrocerystoreorrestaurant, some ingredients on the package or menuwilltellyouthattheproductcontains addedsugarsusingadifferentname

Names for added sugars on labels include:

„ Brownsugar „ Cornsweetener „ Cornsyrup „ Fruitjuiceconcentrates „ High-fructosecornsyrup „ Honey „ Invertsugar „ Maltsugar „ Molasses „ Rawsugar „ Sugar

„ Sugarmoleculesendingin“ose”(dextrose, fructose,glucose,lactose,maltose,sucrose) „ Syrup

On some food products, you may see claims related to sugars Here are some common terms and their meanings:

„ Sugar-Free lessthan0.5gofsugarper serving;containsnoingredientthatisasugar „ ReducedSugarorLessSugar atleast 25percentlesssugarsperservingcompared to a standard serving size of the traditional variety „ No Added Sugars or Without Added Sugars no sugars or sugar-containing ingredientisaddedduringprocessing „ LowSugar notdefinedorallowedasa claimonfoodlabels

Need to Reduce Added Sugars

Althoughsugarsarenotharmfulinsmall amounts to the body, our bodies don’t need added sugars to function properly. Added sugars contribute additional calories and zeronutrientstofood.

Over the past 30 years Americans have steadily consumed more and more added sugarsintheirdiets Reducingaddedsugars

can help you to cut calories, improve your hearthealthandcontrolyourweight

The American Heart Association recommendslimitingtheamountofaddedsugars youconsume

Calories and added sugars

You have a daily energy need the amount of calories (or energy units) your body needs to function and provide energy foryouractivities Thinkofyourdailyenergy need as a budget You’d organize a real budgetwith“essentials”(thingslikerentand utilities) and “extras (such as vacation and entertainment).Inadailycaloriebudget,the essentialsaretheminimumnumberofcaloriesyouneedtomeetyournutrientneeds Depending on the foods you choose and the amount of physical activity you do each day, you may have calories leftover for “extras”suchas:

„ Eatingadditionalfoodsfromafoodgroup aboveyourdailyrecommendation.

„ Selecting a food that’s higher in fat or containsaddedsugars(wholemilkvs skim orsweetenedvs unsweetenedcereal).

„ Addingdressingorsaucetoafood.

„ Eatingdessert. The American Heart Association recommendations for a heart-healthy eating pattern will help you to focus on the essentialsfirst.