Flagship 04.28.2022

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 1

IN THIS ISSUE

Supporting military families Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads continued in the important mission of supporting military families during the Operation Military Families Conference at Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake Apr. 23. PAGE A2 VOL. 29, NO. 16, Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com

April 28-May 4, 2022

Naval Weapons Station Yorktown Celebrates Earth Day

By Susanne Greene NWS Yorktown

he will be pinned to the rank of chief petty officer after completing this year’s Naval Chief Petty Officer Initiation.

“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to be selected as the Sea Sailor of the Year,” said Baker. “I was proud to represent my command and squadron. It was a great competition as all the Sailors displayed the

YORKTOWN, Va. — Naval Weapons Station Yorktown is committed to being a good environmental steward and to protecting the installation’s natural resources year round.

“The US Navy cares and understands that performing its critical mission and protecting natural resources are not mutually exclusive,” stated Jeff Kissler, REM, Installation Environmental Program Director. “The Navy’s commitment to both is beneficial to our workforce and the installation’s surrounding communities.”

NWS Yorktown’s sailors, civilians and Marines are hard at work to make sure they protect the installation’s natural resources and York River.

“On 1 April, sixty sailors and civilians attached to NWS Yorktown, Naval Construction Handling Battalion One, Naval Ophthalmic Support and Training Activity, the Navy Facilities Engineering Command Public Works Department and Fleet and Family Readiness Center came together to clean 7 miles of shore line along the York River,” stated Chief Boatswain’s Mate Earnest W. Hightower, IV. “The team collected 46 bags of trash, tires, and metal debris totaling 1,270 lbs. in support of Commander, Navy Region MID-ATLANTIC and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation Clean the Bay Day.” On 22 April, Marines from Marine Corps Security Force Regiment (MCSFR) aboard Naval Weapons Station Yorktown (NWSY), worked with the installation’s Environmental Division on another important project. They carefully removed stabilizing cables from recently planted trees that were emplaced during MCSFR’s relocation to NWSY. This included planting a new tree to support the installation’s environmental initiatives. Additionally, the Marines participated in the installations Sexual Assault Prevention and Response/Earth Day 5K awareness run to further environmental awareness and prevention efforts.

“Stabilizing wires and ropes are important when first planting trees and if they are not removed, will start to cut into the tree’s bark severing the water vessels,” stated Tom Olexa, Natural Resources Manager. “Trees are considered an asset on all Navy installations and

Turn to 2022 SOY, Page 7

Turn to Earth Day, Page 7

Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic leadership and the command’s 2022 Sea and Shore Sailor of the Year finalists pose for a photo aboard Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, April 21, 2022. The Sailor of the Year is an annual competition held to recognize superior performance of individual Sailors who best exemplify the ideals of a professional Sailor throughout the fleet. ( MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 1ST CLASS CAMERON STONER)

SUBLANT Announces 2022 Sailors of the Year

By Petty Officer 1St Class Cameron Stoner Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic

NORFOLK, Va. — Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic (COMSUBLANT) announced the Shore and Sea Sailors of the Year (SOY) during a ceremony aboard Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, April 21.

Machinist’s Mate (Nuclear) 1st Class Paul

Baker, commander, Submarine Squadron Eight’s finalist, was named Submarine Force Atlantic’s (SUBLANT) Sea SOY. Yeoman 1st Class Kirk Lewis, Submarine Force Atlantic’s finalist, was named SUBLANT’s Shore SOY. Baker, assigned to the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine Pre-commissioning Unit New Jersey (SSN 796), won his boat and squadron’s SOY competition before going on to win SUBLANT’s Sea SOY. As a result of winning,

USS Iowa Tragedy Remembered After 33 Years

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Emily Casavant NORFOLK, Va. — Over 150 members of the USS Iowa Veterans Association, family members and friends attended an annual remembrance ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk, April 19, 2022 to honor and remember the victims of a deadly explosion aboard the USS Iowa.

On April 19th, 1989, an explosion occurred within the USS Iowa (BB-61)’s Number Two 16-inch gun turret during a fleet exercise in the Caribbean Sea. The explosion killed 47 crewmembers.

Attendees of Tuesday’s ceremony gathered at NAVSTA Norfolk’s Iowa Point where the USS Iowa memorial stands. The event began at 9:53 a.m. (the time of the explosion 33 years ago) with an invocation followed by several members reading the 47 names of the fallen Sailors, each followed by one bell tone.

“Every year after the names are read, I say the same thing,” said John Schultz, an organizer of the ceremony. “That’s an awful long list.”

After the names were read, a moment of silence was held before guest speakers began addressing the audience. Some recollected their fallen family members or

A member of the USS Iowa Veterans Association speaks to the guests at a USS Iowa memorial ceremony onboard Naval Station Norfolk Apr. 19, 2022. The event was held at Iowa Point and hosted over 100 guests. (MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS EMILY CASAVANT/ RELEASED)

what it was like for them the day the incident occurred while others spoke about the

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Operation Atlantic Resolve called on Military Sealift Command, in March, to charter American Roll-on Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) ship MV Endurance to load Army cargo at the Port of Beaumont, Texas in support of 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division’s deployment to Europe.

PAGE A6

importance of taking care of mental health and asking for help through hardships.

“One of the worst experiences I ever had was watching that unfold before me,” said Joel Krauss who was assigned to the USS Iowa but was temporarily attending C school when the incident occurred. Krauss had gone to the building where friends and family of the crew members were told to wait for information on their loved ones.

He was waiting to hear if his best friend had survived.

The guests at the memorial ceremony ranged in age from infants to over 70 years old; all of them somehow connected to the 1989 tragedy. Some of the members have been in attendance of the memorial for every year that it has been held, creating a second family for some.

“I lost my brother 33 years ago, but I have gained all of these new brothers,” said Paula Bopp after reading a poem written for her fallen brother.

For many, this group of people has provided a sense of comfort and a source of strength through hardships. They spoke about the bonds that have been created amongst them and the importance that this annual ceremony holds for each of them.

“As long as I have a breath in me, I will be here every year,” said Rick Stanford, a survivor of the explosion. “You guys are my family and I love you all.”

Future Base Design Industry Day

Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana and the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development hosted an Industry Day at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, April 20, as part of NAS Oceana’s Future Base Design initiative.

PAGE A3

Tuttle Award The Institute for Defense and Business (IDB) presented Andrew Rock, FRCE’s V-22 Branch Head, with the 2022 GEN William G.T. Tuttle, Jr. Award for Business Acumen in Defense and Government. PAGE A7

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The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

Capt. Matt Frauenzimmer, Commanding Officer of Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads, speaks to the audience during the Operation Military Families Conference Apr. 23. (KATISHA DRAUGHNFRAGUADA)

Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads partners with Chesapeake Public Schools to support military families

By Katisha Draughn-Fraguada Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads

HAMPTON, Va.— Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads continued in the important mission of supporting military families during the Operation Military Families Conference at Great Bridge High School in Chesapeake Apr. 23.

Capt. Matt Frauenzimmer, Commanding Officer of NSA Hampton Roads, served as the guest speaker at the event where Chesapeake Public Schools hosted an informational conference with sessions geared towards all active duty military members, veterans, parents and students. Frauenzimmer was introduced by the Honorable Harry Murphy, School Board Chair for the city of Chesapeake.

“I am very humbled and honored to be here today as we recognize our phenomenal mili-

tary children and the families who support them,” said Frauenzimmer. “On a special note, I would like to give a big thank you to Chesapeake Public Schools for hosting this event and for your continued support to our entire military community. From the administrators, principals, assistant principals, teachers, custodians, bus drivers and everyone else in between. Thank you for everything you do each and every day for all of the students at all of the schools here in Chesapeake, and specifically our military children.”

Chesapeake Public Schools currently serves 9,000 military connected students.

“We’re very happy to partner with [students and families] because you bring so much to our schools and communities,” said Dr. Jared Cotton, Superintendent of Chesapeake Public Schools. “I was a military child so I’m so happy to be here celebrating with all of you today.”

From a military perspective, Frauenzimmer highlighted the stressors that military children have to deal with as Navy families have to move an average of every two to three years and the children attend up to nine different schools by graduation.

“My own child, my oldest, attended four schools within one year. Let’s think about how hard that would be on a child,” he said.

“You get used to a set of teachers, friends, and neighbors, and then the military tells you to move somewhere that you have never been.

That is an extremely difficult task for a child.

But they do it. And they do it well by exhibiting such strength and perseverance.”

The conference included a light breakfast, resource tables, breakout sessions, and lunch. With April being Month of the Military Child, that was a key theme highlighted throughout the event.

“Most of you are aware that April is

NWS Yorktown participates in US Navy’s Annual Hurricane Exercise

By Susanne Greene NWS Yorktown

YORKTOWN, Va. — Naval Weapons Station Yorktown is participating in the Navy’s annual Hurricane Exercise/Citadel Gale 2022 (HURREX/CG) now through 29 April.

The 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season

closed, above-average with 21 named storms to include 7 hurricanes, 4 being major, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

With this year’s Hurricane Season fast approaching (June 1-Nov. 30), HURREX/ CG 2022, led by U.S. Fleet Forces Command and Commander, Navy Installations Command, prepares the Navy to respond to

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adverse weather conditions in U.S. coastal regions and give installations the opportunity to review recovery procedures after major storms.

“The annual exercise prepares Naval Weapons Station Yorktown personnel and tenants for the potential impacts of a storm on our installation and operations,” stated Ken Roberts, Emergency Management

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This civilian enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services. Contents of the paper, including advertisements, are not necessarily the official views of, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government, DOD, or the Department of the Navy (DON). The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DOD; DON; Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic or Flagship, Inc. of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase,use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Department of Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic.

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Month of the Military Child. Since 1986, this month has been designated to celebrate the important role our military children play in the armed forces community,” said Laura Lerf, Family and Community Engagement Specialist with Chesapeake Public Schools.

“These students demonstrate courage and resilience that is often above that of their peers.”

At the conclusion of the conference, attendees were provided lunch by the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Department and Child and Youth Programs from NSA Hampton Roads.

“The Hampton Roads area is called “America’s Navy town” and all of the families sure make that a special place,” said Frauenzimmer. “I want to personally thank each of you for your support, commitment and dedication to your military member and specifically, our military children.”

Officer. “This year’s scenario includes two artificially constructed Tropical Cyclones which will develop and intensify to hurricane strength, threatening the US East Coast and Gulf Coast regions.”

While HURREX/CG helps to determine if there are any areas where the installation can improve their ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters, family readiness begins at home. Navy personnel are encouraged to create an emergency plan, maintain an emergency kit and familiarize themselves with Navy resources available to them.

It is also a great time to insure all Navy personnel and family members are registered and that their information is current in Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System (NFAAS). To register with NFAAS, go to https://navyfamily.navy.mil For detailed information on emergency preparedness, staying informed, making a plan, building a kit and more, visit www. ready.navy.mil or www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 3

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NAS Oceana, Virginia Beach host Future Base Design Industry Day

By Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana and the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development hosted an Industry Day at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, April 20, as part of NAS Oceana’s Future Base Design initiative.

The event focused on a 113-acre parcel of land located at the site of the former horse stables on the installation, along Oceana

Boulevard. The facility closed in 2019 due to declining revenue and increasing maintenance costs. Under the Future Base Design concept, NAS Oceana, in partnership with the City of Virginia Beach, aims to lease underutilized land on the installation to private or public entities, and in return, receive “in kind” services of equivalent value from the lessee. These services will help modernize installation capabilities, enhance resiliency, and reduce total ownership costs and footprint.

“Through Future Base Design, we’re looking to drive down NAS Oceana’s infrastructure costs, eliminate expenditures, and redirect savings toward our primary warfighting mission of enabling, generating, and increasing naval power,” said NAS Oceana Commanding Officer, Capt. Bob Holmes.

“This Industry Day is a big step in the right direction for the future of NAS Oceana.”

Today’s Industry Day brought together stakeholders who are interested in leasing the parcel for a variety of uses, all of which

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“Future Base Design is a great example of Virginia Beach’s enduring relationship with NAS Oceana,” said City of Virginia Beach Mayor Robert M. “Bobby” Dyer.

“This initiative is a win for NAS Oceana, and a win for Virginia Beach, helping to drive economic development by creating mutually beneficial opportunities for both the public and private sector.”

The Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base, NAS Oceana is home to all East Coast strike-fighter units and is Virginia Beach’s second largest employer. The installation, including Dam Neck Annex and Naval Auxiliary Landing Field Fentress in Chesapeake, supports over 13,000 uniformed Navy personnel, 14,000 family members, and 10,000 civilian personnel.

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6 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 1 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

Two Female Navy Reserve TACADs Led the Way for MV Endurance’s 18-day Voyage to Europe

By Lashawn Sykes

USN Military Sealift Command

BEAUMONT, Texas — Operation Atlantic Resolve called on Military Sealift Command, in March, to charter American Roll-on RollOff Carrier (ARC) ship MV Endurance to load Army cargo at the Port of Beaumont, Texas in support of 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division’s deployment to Europe.

Twenty-one civilian mariners assigned to MV Endurance, along with civilians and military personnel from the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC) at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, provided integrated and synchronized support to MSC’s Lead Logistics Planner, Marine Transportation Specialist Anthony Rothgeb. Together, working as one team, they toiled tirelessly around the clock to meet the ship’s deadline of loading 1,333 pieces of critical U.S. Army cargo that included Army tanks, self-propelled artillery, armored personnel carriers, and support vehicles.

Finishing its on-load in record time, MV Endurance set sail for Europe on March 20, with more than 11 million tons of critical supplies expected to sustain the brigade throughout the duration of its rotational deployment.

Leading the way throughout MV Endurance’s 18-day voyage to Europe were two female Reserve Tactical Advisors (TACADS), LCDR Fionna Boyle and ENS Rosvelly Medina.

“TACADs embark Navy vessels under operational control of Military Sealift Command as advisors to the ship’s master and act as a liaison between MSC ashore personnel, Maritime Administration (MARAD), and Navy contingency operations,” Boyle said.

“Although not all TACADs have the same experience of civilian mariners, all TACADs do possess the military background to seamlessly align on hire commercial vessels with the needs and expectations of the US military,” Medina said.

Medina walks away from her first deployment as a TACAD with a new found appreciation for logistics supply. “The US surface supply chain is more than just sea power; it is the lifeline of the US military, both home and abroad, at war and at peace.”

TACADs fulfill their Navy reserve commitment by gaining real world experience, Boyle said. They are a part of the Commander, Navy Reserve Forces Command’s Strategic Sealift Officer program. Navy female reservists, like Boyle and Medina, make up a small percentage of the total program of 2,133 reservists, at just 14 percent.

In 2017, MSC created its TACAD program, which uses Navy Reserve officers who are licensed mariners in their civilian jobs, to provide training and guidance to the officers of MSC vessels on how to operate in a hostile environment. “Under MSC’s operational control, TACADs provide the best use for their training as both Navy officers and licensed merchant marine officers,” Boyle said.

Military Sealift Command in March charted American Roll-on Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) ship MV Endurance to load 1,333 pieces of critical U.S. Army cargo that included Army tanks, self-propelled artillery, armored personnel carriers, and support vehicles used to take part in Operation Atlantic Resolve in support of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division’s deployment to Europe. ( LASHAWN SYKES)

A native of Doylestown, Pa., Boyle holds a U.S. Coast Guard License for Master 1600 Gross Registered Tonnage, Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage, while simultaneously holding the rank of lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. From 2007 to 2021, as a licensed deck officer, she sailed in deep waters with the Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc.’s tanker fleet, delivering crude oil and petroleum products in the Alaska and Gulf of Mexico trades as well as ports in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the Mediterranean Sea. In conjunction with her commercial sailing experience, she has completed six years of military training, special work, and mobilizations. For the last 15 years, she has served with the U.S. Navy Reserve, Strategic Sealift Officer Program (SSOP).

Born and raised in New York City, Medina joined the United States Navy in 2008 after graduating John Jay College of Criminal Justice. For the next 12 years, she served in the enlisted ranks as a Master-at-Arms, responsible for the Navy’s

security force. MAs play an essential Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection and Law Enforcement role at shore and at sea for all Navy fleets. During her enlistment, she served during Operations Iraqi Freedom in Iraq and Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. In 2020, she was commissioned as a Limited Duty Officer (LDO) with the US Navy Reserves. As a Security LDO by trade, she serves primarily as a TACAD for MSC Headquarters in Norfolk, Va. LDOs perform tasks similar to those of warrant officers (WO). However, the formal definition and differences are subtle, focusing on the degree of authority, leadership, and level of responsibility, as well as the breadth of required expertise.

For the last four years, Rothgeb has been the lead logistics planner in charge of MSC’s office at the Port of Beaumont in Texas. He is responsible for all of the command’s load operations, along with managing all canal transits of both MSC and MSC chartered vessels.

MV Endurance is one of the largest vessels

in the global feet with a 320 metric ton stern ramp, main deck maximum height of 25 feet and 262,252 square feet of military useful capacity. The vessel is one of five ARC vessels certified to carry V-22s as well as CH-47s in sealift configuration.

Since 2014, U.S. Army Europe and Africa has led the Department of Defense’s Operation Atlantic Resolve land efforts by rotating units based in the U.S. to Europe. There are four types of U.S. Army Atlantic Resolve rotations — armored, aviation, sustainment task force and division headquarters. Rotational units conduct bilateral, joint and multinational training events across more than a dozen countries.

MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, civilian-crewed ships that replenish the U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea ships around the world, and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners.

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 1 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 7

Tuttle Award recognizes excellence on FRCE’s V-22 line

By Heather Wilburn

Fleet Readiness Center East

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. — In January 2021, the V-22 Osprey production line at Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) set a personal best, returning an aircraft to the fleet in record time: just 297 days, far faster than the standard turnaround time of 420 days. In November of that same year, the team improved on that record, clocking a 164-day turnaround.

In the months since, the team has made a relentless push to continue driving down V-22 turnaround times at FRCE while continuing to meet the exacting safety and quality standards required by the nation’s military aviators — and their efforts have attracted attention.

The Institute for Defense and Business (IDB) presented Andrew Rock, FRCE’s V-22 Branch Head, with the 2022 GEN William G.T. Tuttle, Jr. Award for Business Acumen in Defense and Government during an April 13 ceremony at the FRCE. The award recognized the V-22 line’s achievements in significantly increasing direct labor hours on the line with only a minor increase in staffing.

“I’m so pleased IDB chose to recognize the hard work Andrew and the V-22 team have done to increase efficiency and employee utilization on the line,” said FRCE Commanding Office Capt. James M. Belmont. “I’m proud of the team’s efforts to reduce cost and increase aircraft availability, and of the work they do every day to provide quality products to our nation’s warfighters is certainly deserving of recognition. The team truly earned this award.”

This increased efficiency has led to the V-22 line is completing aircraft more than 100 days faster than in the past, even while perform-

2022 SOY from Page 1

qualities it takes to be a great leader at the next level. I look forward to seeing them in the fleet.”

Lewis, who serves as SUBLANT’s chief of staff administrative assistance, is responsible for processing flag level correspondence, travel and meeting coordination of all U.S. submarine and strategic commands.

“It’s an honor to be selected as the Shore Sailor of the Year by leadership,” said Lewis.

“It means my supervisors, leaders and Sailors under me believed in me. I couldn’t have possibly got this far without them.”

Vice Adm. William Houston, commander, Submarine Forces, spoke on the finalists’ dedication and professionalism during the ceremony.

“Enlisted Sailors have always been the backbone of our Navy since its inception,” said Houston. “Seeing our finalists here today

ing more maintenance operations, Rock explained. Cutting the turnaround time so significantly has required an all-hands effort; the award is reflective of the hard work put in by everyone who impacts the aircraft’s production, from the artisans and aircraft evaluators to the production controllers, quality assurance, engineers and support staff, he said.

“This award represents the work the team put in, and the buy-in they had during the process modifications we’ve gone through while implementing Naval Sustainment System initiatives and other alterations to the way we have done business in the past,” Rock said. “It’s awesome to see the hard work the V-22 line has been doing for the past two years being recognized by an outside entity.

“We continue to change the way they accomplish tasks, and they take it all in stride and get the job done, all while supporting the Air Force CV-22 at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and in-service support requests from all over the world,” Rock continued. “Our team members are sometimes away from home for weeks or months at a time, but they always push through and meet the mission.”

This V-22 team’s success demonstrates the innovative application of concepts Rock studied when he attended the Aviation Industrial Readiness Program (AIR-P) at the institute, said Mike Bogdahn, senior client relations director at IDB, a North Carolina-based nonprofit education and research institute that develops and delivers custom education programs addressing complex industrial leadership, logistics, technology and innovation.

Presented yearly to an outstanding IDB alumni, the Tuttle Award requires nominees to demonstrate how they are applying, with is a reminder of how committed our Sailors are to our country and carrying out the mission. This milestone shows how highly their leadership thinks of their professionalism, work ethic and dedication to duty. I am confident they will all go on to be remarkable leaders and continue to exemplify the best of our enlisted force.”

SUBLANT’s Force Master Chief Steve Bosco expressed the difficulty in selecting the Sea and Shore SOYs as all the finalists represented the very best of the forces’ enlisted Sailors.

“The finalists certainly made it difficult to pick a winner as they all displayed the very best qualities the Submarine Force has to offer,” said Bosco. “Their hard work and commitment has been recognized by leadership and they are all certainly deserving of the SOY. I am extremely proud of all of them and look forward to seeing them go on to be the next generation of the Submarine Forces’ enlisted leadership.”

As the Shore Sailor of the Year for

Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) V-22 Branch Head Andrew Rock, center, accepted the Institute for Defense and Business (IDB) 2022 GEN William G.T. Tuttle, Jr. Award for Business Acumen in Defense and Government during an April 13 ceremony at FRCE. Retired Marine Corps Lt. Gen. William Faulkner, fourth from left, presented the award, which recognized the V-22 line’s achievements in significantly increasing direct labor hours on the line with only a minor increase in staffing. (HEATHER WILBURN)

supporting data, what they learned in the program by successfully impacting national defense; improving readiness, quality or safety reducing cycle times; improving processes; or reducing costs in one area and using those assets in other areas of need.

“The application of what Mr. Rock learned during his time with the IDB, and what he and his team accomplished, was amazing,” Bogdahn said. “All our nominations had superb achievements, but the average increase in work hours per aircraft — which led to an increase of direct labor hours by 30 percent, with only a 15 percent increase in staffing — really stood out.”

Rock said his biggest takeaway from AIR-P was to change what isn’t working, and that mindset helped facilitate the improvements on the V-22 line.

“Change it — and if that doesn’t work,

change it again,” Rock said. “Don’t be afraid of change, and keep changing until it’s right.

We continue to change and always look for better, more efficient processes; that’s how we will continue to improve. It was an honor to accept this award on behalf of the team.”

The award selection process is competitive, with more than 10,000 IDB alumni eligible for nomination. Candidates must clearly demonstrate a return on investment in one of the areas of emphasis considered for the award, and the nomination packages are then validated and verified by a panel of IDB representatives, Bogdahn explained. IDB Fellows review the verified nominations and provide input and recommended rankings, and then the IDB president reviews the results and inputs from all sources and validates the recipient of the year’s Tuttle Award.

COMSUBLANT, Lewis will compete in the 2022 commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Sailor of the Year competition.

Sailor of the Year is a time-honored tradition introduced in 1972 by Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet.

This annual competition is held to recognize superior performance of individual Sailors, who best exemplify the ideals of professional Sailor throughout the fleet.

The Submarine Force executes the Department of the Navy’s mission in and from the undersea domain. In addition to lending added capacity to naval forces, the Submarine Force, in particular, is expected to leverage those special advantages that come with undersea concealment to permit operational, deterrent and combat effects that the Navy and the nation could not otherwise achieve.

The Submarine Force and supporting organizations constitute the primary undersea arm of the Navy. Submarines and their crews remain the tip of the undersea spear.

Earth Day from Page 1

provide invaluable support to the surrounding ecosystem but also much needed shade to service members who are training on hot summer days.”

The installation is also engaging with other partners to protect the York River and military assets. One example, is the Coastal Living Shoreline Restoration project in partnership with Office of the Secretary of Defense, US Army Corp of Engineers, Virginia Institute of Marine Science and other state and federal agencies.

“The project will support the integrity of much of the weapon station’s shoreline and benefit local Oyster Farmers using those areas,” stated Olexa.

Although Earth Day is recognized on 22 April, NWS Yorktown is continuously managing several habitats by mowing, clearing brush and planting to ensure a healthy ecosystem.

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 1

Task Force 70 An Athens County, Ohio native completed his tour serving as the Assistant Chief of Staff for N1 () as well as serving as Flag Secretary for Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, the Navy’s only permanently afloat Task Force, April 30.

PAGE B6

TRUMAN CARRIER STRIKE GROUP ARRIVES IN ITALY

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) pulls into Trieste, Italy, April 23, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interests in Europe and Africa. (MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 3RD CLASS CRAYTON AGNEW)

By Petty Officer 1st Class Jamica Johnson Carrier Strike Group 8

TRIESTE, Italy — The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and Norwegian Fridtjof Nansen-class frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310) arrived in Trieste, Italy, while the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG 56) arrived in Porto di Marghera, for scheduled port visits, April 23, 2022.

Since arriving to the Mediterranean Sea in December, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG), including Truman, Fridtjof Nansen and San Jacinto, have routinely operated alongside the Italian Armed Forces.

“Prior to our visit, we sailed alongside our Italian partners at sea during multiple operations with the aircraft carrier ITS Cavour (C 550) and several Italian surface ships,” said Rear Adm. Curt Renshaw,

commander, Carrier Strike Group 8. “All involved demonstrated our ability to integrate seamlessly.”

Key maritime integration events have included tri-carrier operations among HSTCSG, the ITS Cavour carrier strike group and the FS Charles de Gaulle carrier strike group, as well as Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1’s combined operations with the Italian Air Force. Truman has continued supporting NATO’s defensive capabilities by participating in enhanced Air Policing (eAP) mission on the Alliance’s Eastern flank.

Though bolstering US commitment to the NATO Alliance is key to Truman’s presence in the region, routine port visits provide the opportunity to reinforce our enduring connection with Italy. Capt.

Gavin Duff, Truman’s commanding officer, emphasized the importance of multinational cooperation demonstrated by routine port visits.

“A significant aspect of this deployment is centered on our longstanding relation-

ships with European Allies and Partners, to include Italy,” said Duff. “In the same way we have benefited from our training with the extraordinary professionals of the Italian Navy and Air Force, we are grateful for the opportunity to experience the culture, history and generosity of the Italian people.”

Echoing Capt. Duff ’s comments on the importance of port visits to overall cultural exchanges and interpersonal relations among Allies and Partners, Cmdr. Glen Atherton, San Jacinto’s executive officer, spoke to the benefits of port visits to all involved.

“The Sailors in this strike group have been doing a phenomenal job in contributing to the NATO mission,” said Atherton.

“This port visit is a great way for our crew to relax from the daily demands of being out to sea.”

Truman is the flagship of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG); additional elements of the carrier strike group include the nine squadrons of Carrier

Navy Sailors, Civilians Clean Up Sporting Hill Road on Earth Day

By Thomas Zimmerman

NAVSUP Business Systems Center

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. — Sailors and civilians assigned to Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC) removed trash and debris from a two-mile stretch of road in Mechanicsburg as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) state-wide Adopt A Highway program, April 22.

The environmental stewardship project on Sporting Hill Road was held in conjunction with Earth Day and signaled a 15-year partnership with PennDOT. “The local community has been very gracious and supportive of the military presence here in Mechanicsburg and this is just one small activity we can do to help be good stewards of the environment,” said Capt. Gene Cash, commanding officer, NAVSUP BSC. “Our military and civilians use Sporting Hill Road to get to and from work and it’s worth our time to volunteer, pick up trash and debris, and help preserve the area surrounding Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg.”

In addition to keeping the community clean, the project also allows PennDOT to focus efforts on other priorities.

“We cannot always give the necessary attention to some of these areas due to the demands of other projects, so when groups adopt a section of highway, it helps us keep

our community clean,” said Cheryl Frick, Adopt A Highway coordinator, PennDOT. “We greatly appreciate the dedication and hard work from groups like NAVSUP BSC.” Navy commands are encouraged to join efforts with local communities on environmental and energy education initiatives that support the preservation, protection, restoration, and enhancement of the environment. Activities may include developing youth environmental stewardship awareness, teaching environmental values and energy-efficient habits, enhancing environmental and energy science curricula of schools, implementing recycling programs, and organizing or participating in energy awareness events or environmental cleanup efforts such as the PennDOT Adopt A Highway program.

Adopt A Highway areas include state highway rights-of-way, interchange areas, traffic islands, or two-mile sections of roadway. Community partners volunteer for two years. PennDOT provides materials to maintain designated areas and posts signs along the road to recognize participating partners.

“The Navy defends our freedoms at home and abroad,” said Lt j.g. Kile Green, project officer and Adopt A Highway coordinator, NAVSUP BSC. “The environment is one of our most precious resources, and it’s crucial that we sustain and improve our environment for future generations.”

Air Wing (CVW) 1, commanded by Capt.

Patrick Hourigan; the staff and guided-missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28, commanded by Capt.

Todd Zenner, which include: USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), USS Cole (DDG 67), USS Gonzalez (DDG 66), USS Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109); the Royal Norwegian Navy’s Fridtjof-Nansen class frigate HNoMS Fridtjof Nansen (F310), deployed as part of the Cooperative Deployment Program; and San Jacinto, commanded by Capt. Christopher Marvin.

The strike group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to maintain and generate maritime stability and security, for the U.S., and Allied and Partner interests in Europe and Africa.

For more news from CSG 8, visit, www. facebook.com/CSG8, www.navy.mil/local. cvn75/, www.facebook.com/usnavy, www. instagram.com/uss_harrys.truman, www. navy.mil, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

Navy’s Senior Language Authority Visits CIWT

By Kurt Van Slooten

Center For Information Warfare Training

Sailors and civilians assigned to Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Business Systems Center (BSC) remove trash and debris from a two-mile stretch of road on Sporting Hill Road as part of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) state-wide Adopt A Highway program.

(JAMES E FOEHL)

PENSACOLA, Fla. — James Lewis, senior language authority and director of the Navy Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture (LREC) office and Cryptologic Technician Interpretive Master Chief Kenneth Paulsen, senior rating advisor for the CTI rating to the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare/Director of Naval Intelligence, visited the Center for Information Warfare Training (CIWT) on Corry Station, Apr. 21, 2022.

During Lewis’ first visit, he and Paulsen received a command overview and had an office call with Capt. Marc Ratkus, commanding officer of CIWT, met with the LREC staff, and discussed CIWT’s language and culture education programs.

Lewis’ visit was important to the command as CIWT is the parent organization for the LREC program, and Lewis serves as the advocate to the Navy, the Department of Defense and intelligence community for LREC. As the senior language authority, he is responsible for Turn to Language, Page 7

2

The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

Heroes at Home

Q: Are RPP properties inspected?

A: All RPP properties must be inspected for adherence to program requirements by the local HSC. Additionally, the Service member and Landlord are responsible for doing a movein and move-out inspection. For apartment complexes, the HSC will inspect one unit of each type/size as well as inspect all common areas including clubhouse, play areas and grounds. If it is a single family unit, the HSC will walk through the entire home and property.

NAVY HOUSING Norfolk (757) 445-2832 JEBLCFS (757) 462-2792 Oceana/Dam Neck (757) 433-3268 Yorktown (757) 847-7806

(ISTOCK)

Oh, the people you’ll meet when you live overseas

By Lisa Smith Molinari I picked her up at Norfolk Airport, stowing her carpet-bag suitcase and walking stick in the back of our minivan. Mabel was 86, and after traveling all the way from England to Virginia, I figured she’d need a good rest once we got home.

But at our house, she stayed alert while our three kids fought for her attention, showing her their schoolwork, toys, missing teeth, and bedrooms. The only one that had any memory of Mabel was Hayden, who was three when we PCSed from England five years ago. But we’d told all three kids the unique tale of our friend Mabel.

Mabel had been our neighbor. She lived alone, two doors down in the row of old stone houses we’d occupied in Ramsey, England, during our first overseas tour. After an early stint in the Royal Air Force in her youth, Mabel worked as a private nanny and boarding school house mother for decades. In her seventies, Mabel retired to the stone house in Ramsey.

She’d never married.

Most days Mabel sat in a floral upholstered chair in her living room, beside a table topped with her essentials: the television clicker, her books, a Cadbury chocolate bar, and a secret pack of cigarettes. She loved John Wayne movies, long cricket matches, and “those American chocolate biscuits with cream in the

middle.” We bought Oreos for Mabel from the commissary. Double-stuffed were her favorite.

Mabel looked the part of a classic British nanny. She had neat curls of gray hair, light blue eyes, and a sturdy figure. She wore lace-collared blouses, a cardigan sweater with a handkerchief in the pocket, wool skirts, pantyhose, sensible shoes, and wire-rimmed glasses. She used a walking stick, emblazoned with souvenir medals from her travels.

We invited Mabel over periodically, but she was quite content alone. On Christmas, she’d make herself a formal dinner, just for one. Sometimes she’d make enough to take a serving over to Bernard, the retired butler who lived alone across the alleyway. Otherwise, Mabel stuck to a solitary routine that involved daily walks to the village bakery, butcher or Sainsbury’s, and a weekly bus ride to the library for more books.

On Hayden’s third birthday, he was delighted when she came to his party. By the end of our tour in England, Mabel felt like family. I could’ve taken advantage of her background as a nanny, but I never asked her to babysit. She had bonded with our children on her terms.

When we moved back to the states, we exchanged letters with Mabel, never thinking that she might visit us one day. But there she was in our Virginia Beach family room, sipping coffee while our three kids told her about Tae Kwan Do lessons, acorn collections and Jimmy Neutron.

During her visit, Mabel taught manners to Hayden’s scout troop. She took a private tour of a Norfolk fire station. She attended Anna’s class field trip to Jamestown colony. She played Polly Pockets with Lilly. She ate crab cakes. She poked at our cat with her walking stick.

On her last night, we took Mabel to a Cinco de Mayo party at a friends’ house. In their crowded garage decorated with chili pepper lights, latin music blared. Folding tables were heaped with spicy foods, a rented margarita machine swirled lime slush, and a piñata swung from the ceiling.

“Would you like one?” the hostess, Christine, asked Mabel, seated in a lawn chair amidst the sombreroed crowd. Mabel glanced at me to explain the small plastic cups on Christine’s tray.

“They’re called Jell-O shots,” I shouted through the noise. “They’re made with tequila.”

Christine demonstrated, showing Mabel how to use her tongue to dislodge the Jell-O from the cup. Mabel, looking like Mrs. Doubtfire had been taken hostage by a band of festive Mexicans, selected a cup from Christine’s tray and downed it like a pro.

That night, as I watched my 86-year-old friend tap her walking stick to the music, I felt grateful that military life had given our family the unique opportunity to mix cultures, to span ages, to learn new things, and to live life to the fullest.

Authorized Housing Flexibility Options for Service Members and Families During PCS Moves

By Military Onesource

Eligible service members and their families have housing flexibility options when they receive PCS orders within the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii.

Eligibility for authorized housing flexibility options Service members who meet requirements are eligible for authorized housing flexibility options before and during a PCS move.

Service members who qualify include those with: • One or more dependents enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program, or EFMP • A spouse who is currently employed or enrolled in a degree, certificate or license-granting program • An immediate family member with a chronic or long-term illness who they are caring for • One or more children attending an elementary or secondary school Authorized housing flexibility options Eligible service members may request flexible housing arrangements for their family starting 180 days before their PCS date, with the options ending 180 days after

(ISTOCK)

the PCS date: • Continuation of stay in government-owned or -leased family housing if they are living in such housing at the start of the covered PCS period. Approval of this request requires that remaining there would not impact the housing arrangements of other service members assigned to that duty station. Note that this option does not cover Public Private Venture housing, or PPV, otherwise known as privatized military housing.

• Early housing options at a new duty station within the flexible housing period if housing is available, even if their service member has not yet arrived.

• Occupancy of government-owned or -leased unaccompanied housing if a spouse or dependents relocate at a time that differs from the service member’s arrival to an assigned station. This housing flexibility will be offered on a “space-available”

basis that does not displace unaccompanied service members with no dependents.

• Equitable basic allowance for housing, or BAH, based on prescribed criteria. The service member may request BAH at the old or new permanent duty station or at the dependent’s location before the covered relocation period began.

The military service branch reserves the right to adjust the timing and general availability of these flexible moving options depending on mission needs.

Requesting authorized housing flexibility options For additional information regarding housing flexibility options, contact your installation personnel support office.

For comprehensive moving support and resources, visit PCS and Military Moves.

You can also contact your installation Military and Family Support Center for an array of relocation assistance services.

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 AND/OR SERVICES FFSC PROVIDES: ClinicalCounseling(Individual, Couples,a nd Child Counseling) Personal Financial Management Information & Referral Family Employment Assistance Transition Assistance Family Advocacy Program Deployment and Mobilization Support Ombudsman Support Relocation Assistance Parenting Programs Stress and Anger Management Command Support Crisis Support SuicidePrevention SAPR Support

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 3

Cmdr. Jeffrey Gerring, commanding officer of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15) (Blue Crew), right, turns over the hull to Cmdr. Brett Seeley, commanding officer of Billings (Gold Crew), during an exchange of command ceremony in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Apr. 22, 2022. (MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 3RD CLASS AARON LAU)

USS Billings (LCS 15) Holds First OCONUS Freedom-Variant LCS Exchange of Command Ceremony

By Lt. Anthony Junco

Commander, Littoral Combat Ship Squadron Two

PONCE, Puerto Rico — The Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15) held an exchange of command ceremony in Ponce, Puerto Rico, April 22, 2022.

This marks the first East Coast Freedom-variant LCS to turn over the hull outside the continental U.S. (OCONUS).

“This exchange of command presented unique challenges, but the successful transition of ownership of Billings outside

Mayport highlights the professional conduct and coordination between these LCS crews,” said Capt. Tom Stephens, commodore of Mine Division 22. “We’re very proud of the Billings crews’ accomplishments as Billings Gold begins a second deployment within the past year and Billings Blue caps off a highly successful first deployment.”

The Blue Crew pulled into Ponce on April 12 to conduct a preventative maintenance availability (PMAV) and continuous maintenance availability (CMAV). The Gold Crew took over the hull on April 22,

will complete the CMAV, and then continue to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean.

“The Kraken crew performed remarkably well during this deployment, not only disrupting 1,900 kilograms of illicit drugs, but also working side-by-side with important partner nations,” said Cmdr. Jeffrey Gerring, commanding officer of Billings (Blue Crew). “It is bittersweet to turn the hull over to the Thundercat crew, but I know they will be equally successful while

operating in the AOR.” Billings Gold Crew arrived on the ship April 17, and began working with Blue Crew to complete operational and maintenance checks, inspections, and preparations to take charge of the hull.

“It is great to be back aboard the mighty Billings and to see Team Kraken complete their maiden deployment,” said Cmdr.

Brett Seeley, commanding officer of Billings (Gold Crew). “The Thundercats are excited to execute the first east coast LCS crew swap overseas and to soon head back out on patrol to build upon the successes of our first deployment last year. Many thanks to our sister crew, our immediate superior in command (ISIC), and the maintenance community for making this overseas turnover successful and we cannot wait to set sail soon, Hooyah Team Billings!”

LCS is a fast, agile, mission-focused platform designed to operate in near-shore environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats. It can support forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence.

Together WE WIN $

“The generous donation from Rosie’s will help Southwest Virginia Ballet continue to provide outreach programs in our area.

Thank you so much for your support not only of our organization but also of our students and community.”

52,000 IN 52 WEEKS

Every week in 2022, we will donate $1,000 to a local nonprofit that is providing valuable services in the areas we are located. Helping those communities around us is at the core of our operational philosophy. We truly believe that high tides raise all ships and we are determined to continue to add value to the communities in which we operate.

Through the charitable program, Rosie’s Gives Back, Colonial Downs Group has made monetary and in-kind donations of more than $1,975,000, and has logged over 2,500 service hours in Virginia communities.

Pedro Szalay, Artistic Director

Southwest Virginia Ballet www.svballet.org

Get more out of your subscription by setting up your digital account • More articles than what’s in print • Breaking News alerts with the mobile app • Unlimited access to our website • eNewspaper, a digital replica of the paper emailed daily It’s easy to start your online access!

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4 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

Col. Mark R. Amspacher, second from right, AV-8B Weapon Systems Program Office (PMA-257) manager, delivers remarks to FRCE staff prior to presenting letters of appreciation Mar. 31. PMA257 recognized FRCE for its outstanding support of the AV-8B Propulsion Integrated Product Team and the AV-8B Harrier fleet. ( JOSEPH ANDES)

FRCE recognized for contributions to Fleet AV-8B Harrier readiness

By Joseph Andes

Fleet Readiness Center East

CHERRY POINT, NC, The AV-8B Weapon Systems Program Office (PMA-257) recently recognized Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) for its outstanding support of the AV-8B Propulsion Integrated Product Team and the AV-8B Harrier fleet.

Col. Mark R. Amspacher, PMA-257 program manager, visited FRCE Mar. 31 and presented staff with letters of appreciation citing the depot’s direct contribution to the readiness of the Marine Corps’ AV-8B fleet and support in meeting its war fighting missions.

FRCE Commanding Officer Capt. James Belmont said he was pleased to see the team’s hard work and out-of-the-box thinking acknowledged by leaders in the AV-8B community.

“I could not be more proud of the team here at FRCE,” Belmont said. “Seeing a program office recognize our people in this way just reinforces to me that we employ some of the most innovative, highly skilled experts in the world, who have real-world impact on flight line readiness for the Harrier fleet and beyond. They will stop at nothing to ensure our warfighters receive the support they need.”

According to Christopher Day, FRCE’s Engines and Dynamic Components Branch lead, FRCE began identifying potential supply constraints with the AV-8B’s fuel management units (FMUs) as early as 2019, and proactively began searching for solutions.

“The AV-8B Harrier is in its sunset years,” Day said. “The F-35 will replace the Harrier

at some point, but we still need to maintain AV-8B capability. Harriers are still going out and serving the country across the globe.

It was vital that we continue fuel control production for these Harriers and their F402 engine.”

The AV-8B is a vertical and/or short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) strike aircraft powered by the F402 turbofan engine.

Combining tactical mobility, responsiveness and basing flexibility, both afloat and ashore, V/STOL aircraft are particularly well suited to the special combat and expeditionary requirements of the Marine Corps.

The FMU is an essential part of the AV-8B’s F402 engine. Day compares it to the carburetor in a car, albeit a very large and complex one. It delivers fuel to the Harrier’s engine and the aircraft cannot fly without it.

“Without a fuel control you don’t have an F402 engine,” said Day. “And without an engine you lose the close air support capability that the Harrier provides. This was a ‘couldn’t fail’ type of effort. Everything that we could put on the table, we put on the table.”

To overcome potential issues with obtaining new FMU materials through traditional supply sources, a cross-disciplinary team consisting of members from the program office and FRCE artisans, engineers and planners was formed to look at creative ways to ensure production of this vital part of the Harrier power plant would not be impacted.

One option — salvaging out-of-service fuel controllers that could be dismantled to provide piece parts for use in newly overhauled, ready-for-issue FMUs — showed promise. Rigorous examination and testing confirmed this approach was a viable option.

“We decided that it might be possible to minimize throwing out some of the old parts,” Day said. “We had them inspected and the team worked with engineering to add processing steps to prolong the life of some of these critical parts, and we were able to do that.

“It took an exhaustive effort on engineering’s part to get these to the lab and analyze the data to make a safe-for-flight determination,” he continued. “We also used the RILOP program, or reclamation in lieu of procurement. We basically brought in olderstyle FMUs and tore them down for usable parts.”

In addition to putting together and testing new FMUs, FRCE artisans now found themselves tearing down older FMUs and obtaining usable parts. According to David Lawrence, FRCE’s Fuel Control Shop supervisor, his team was more than up to the task.

“The guys who build FMUs in my shop — I can’t say enough good things about them,” said Lawrence. “One of my artisans who builds them has an incredible level of experience, and was able to train two more people and certify them to build FMUs. In our testing area, another artisan, who is a long-time aviation maintenance professional, had trained a secondary operator and is currently training a third operator to test FMUs. During this whole process, there was never a time when folks weren’t on board.

Everybody was doing everything they could to get FMUs out the door and where they need to be.”

Despite the hard work involved, Lawrence says the FRCE team focused on the importance of their task, with each team member aware of the vital nature of their work.

“It’s all about supporting the warfighter,” says Lawrence. “At the end of the day, you tell the artisans where the finish line is and they’re going to cross it. The people in this shop have a high level of integrity. The end result is they give that pilot something he or she knows they can get the job done with.”

The innovative thinking and diligent work of the FRCE team have paid off and provide Harrier pilots with a capable and quality aircraft to complete their mission. The depot’s efforts ensure that FMU production continues without a hitch and continues to support Fleet requirements.

“That was absolutely epic for those guys to have someone like Colonel Amspacher come in and present our team with their letters of appreciation,” said Day. “I thought that was outstanding. I’m proud of not just this team, but all the teams we have here in the Engines Branch. They’re always up for a challenge and always looking for ways to keep those engines running and aircraft flying.”

According to Day, the depot’s support of the FMU for the AV-8B is a good example of just how important the work of the FRCE artisans and engineers can be.

“These FMUs are going on a single engine aircraft,” said Day. “The readiness of each of these aircraft is vital to our country. Things happen in the world that we need to be ready for. Right now, the Harrier is still that aircraft that needs to be ready to go. It is our job, along with the Marines, to ensure that the AV-8B can go, will go, and will be on-site at any time.”

FRCE is North Carolina’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, with more than 4,000 civilian, military and contract workers. Its annual revenue exceeds $1 billion. The depot provides service to the fleet while functioning as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy; Naval Air Systems Command; and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers.

Learn more at www.navair.navy.mil/frce or https://www.facebook.com/FleetReadinessCenterEast.

Mayport’s Newest Expeditionary Squadron Conducts its Inaugural Flight

By Petty Officer 2nd Class Juel Foster

Navy Public Affairs Support Element East, Detachment Southeast

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. — The “Valkyries” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 50 conducted the squadron’s inaugural flight at Naval Station Mayport, April 20, 2022.

Cmdr. Carolyn Peterson, commanding officer of HSM 50, and Lt. Cmdr. Adam Patterson, operations officer, piloted a squadron-owned MH-60R helicopter after the squadron received its initial safe-for-flight certification.

“I’m very proud of my team as they made today possible,” said Peterson. “It’s absolutely fantastic to be a part of this learning organization, working together to create our Valkyrie legacy.”

Since beginning their establishment process on October 1, 2021, HSM 50, with the support of its neighboring squadrons, Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadrons 40 and 48, completed its initial certifications, training requirements, and qualifications necessary to reach this first flight milestone.

“I got the opportunity to be the squadron’s plan captain for the first flight, and it was a rewarding and nerve-wracking experience,” said Aviation Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Joshua Wetherbee. “I’m so proud of how far

Aviation Electrician’s Mate 2nd Class Joshua Wetherbee, assigned to the“Valkyries”of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 50, conducts plane captain duties during flight operations prior to the squadron’s first flight at Naval Station Mayport, April 20, 2022. HSM-50 is the newest expeditionary squadron at Naval Station Mayport. ( MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS JUEL FOSTER)

we’ve come as a squadron and how much hard work the entire team put in to make this day possible.”

Following this milestone, HSM 50 continues its establishment process and will complete additional certifications and training requirements need to make the squadron mission-

ready, enabling it to deploy combat-ready expeditionary MH-60R aviation detachments in support of operational tasking.

“Our team had to build this squadron from the ground up,” said Senior Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic James Parker. “We looked at the examples set by the other squad-

rons and incorporated their practices into our own, setting the standard for what the future of HSM 50 will look like.”

HSM 50 is the newest expeditionary aviation squadron at Naval Station Mayport.

To learn more about HSM-50 visit: https://www.airlant.usff.navy.mil/hsm50/

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 5

Not Just Survivors, but Warriors, Fighting Back Against the Nazis

By Petty Officer 3rd Class Riley Mcdowell

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78)

Lt. Ryan Feingold, USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) command deputy judge advocate, from Miami, Florida, has served in the U.S. Navy for five and a half years. He grew up in a Jewish household and his grandparents on both sides of his family were survivors of the Holocaust.

“I grew up hearing stories about the horrors that my family endured during the Holocaust,” said Feingold. “Those stories taught me a lot about life and shaped me into who I am today.”

Feingold said that growing up, his family cared deeply about Jewish history and preserving important traditions. His family routinely went to synagogue on Shabbat, and he had his bar mitzvah in Israel when he was 13. Feingold’s maternal grandfather is 97-years-old and still alive today. Unfortunately, his maternal grandmother passed away two weeks ago at the age of 95. She was 13-years-old when Nazi forces invaded her home country of Poland.

“I would not say we are very religious,” said Feingold. “My grandparents certainly were though. My mother’s parents grew up Orthodox. Orthodox Jews in Poland at that time were very traditional, very observant.”

Feingold said that his maternal grandparents, along with other Holocaust survivors, immigrated to Canada after the war. They spoke Hebrew and Yiddish inside of the community, but his experience growing up in Florida was much different.

“It was a little bit of a different experience for us,” said Feingold. “You are around so many different people, so you assimilate into the culture. I didn’t grow up very religious, but I certainly care a lot about my faith, the Jewish people and ensuring that my religious practices remain free.”

Airman Ryan Newbill, Ford’s multi-cultural heritage committee public affairs officer, from Elkheart, Indiana, interviewed Feingold about his family’s history.

“America is definitely a melting pot; so many different religions, so many different thought processes and ideas,” said Newbill. “It’s like everyone is growing together with one another.

That’s what makes America beautiful.”

Feingold said that his maternal grandmother was born Sara Golcman in 1926 in the town of Leopoldow, Poland. Golcman and her seven siblings helped run the family business, a large grocery store. When Adolf Hitler took power in Germany in 1933, life changed for them.

“In September 1939, when Germany invaded Poland, my grandmother was forced into a ghetto,” said Feingold. “Germany created a ghetto in her town and forced all the Jewish people to live together and work in horrible conditions. Five of her siblings and both of her parents were sent to the gas chambers at Sobibor Extermination Camp in German-occupied Poland, and murdered.”

Feingold said that his maternal grandmother and her two remaining siblings escaped captivity miraculously and ended up joining a Jewish resistance group called the Glowver Forest Otriad. Surviving for several years during the war and seeking justice against the Nazis, Feingold’s maternal grandfather, Chonon (Charles) Bedzow, also joined a famous Jewish resistance brigade, the Bielski Brigade, which sought revenge on their tormentors by disabling trains,

Lt. Ryan Feingold, USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) deputy judge advocate, from Miami, assigned to Ford’s legal department, stands watch as the junior officer of the deck on the bridge, April 21, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ship’s basic training phase. (MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS RILEY MCDOWELL)

stealing supplies and attacking Nazi military units. More importantly to them, the Bielski Brigade, also saved Jews from an almost certain death by sheltering men, women and children.

“The Germans wanted to kill us because we were Jewish, but we fought back,” said Bedzow.

“We saved over a thousand Jews, and we survived and resisted together.”

The Bielski Brigade lived in the woods of Belarus for two-and-a-half years, constantly avoiding capture by German military forces.

The Hollywood film “Defiance” is based on their experience. Feingold attended the grand opening of this film in 2008 with his extended family in New York City with dozens of other Holocaust survivors and their families.

“After the war ended in 1945, my mother’s parents met, fell in love, got married on March 8, 1946 and lived in an Italian displaced persons’ camp in Garlasco, Italy for almost three years,” said Feingold. “They had nowhere to go, but through unyielding determination and courage, they persevered, had their first child named Frances Shapiro (Feingold’s aunt) and eventually created an amazing life in Canada and the United States.”

Feingold went on to say that his paternal grandmother originally lived in Berlin, but after the Nazi regime came to power in 1933, she fled Germany with her family for Israel. By 1936, Germany began passing laws stripping Jews of their citizenship, prohibiting relationships between Jews and non-Jews and prosecuting people that were deemed “undesirable” or “sub-human.” Those included were people who were physically or mentally disabled, homosexuals, people of African descent, Roma (also known as Gypsies) and Jews.

“My father’s family saw and predicted what was about to happen to the Jewish people in Europe,” said Feingold. “They fled the country in a creative and secretive way.”

Feingold said that all of his grandparents were and are proud of how they persevered and resisted the murderous regime of Nazi Germany. Some Holocaust survivors find it too painful to talk about their experiences, but Feingold’s grandparents want the world to know what Jewish people underwent during the Nazi regime.

“They wanted to ensure that the world learned an important lesson from the Holocaust,” said Feingold. “They felt like they needed to contribute to the historical effort. My grandfather is 97. He still talks about it today, and my grandmother, bless her heart, spoke about her experiences until the very end. She was a very brave woman.”

Feingold said that his family continues to encourage people to learn and educate themselves on the horrors of the Holocaust.

“I don’t like to hide from my Jewishness or my Jewish faith. I’m very proud and outspoken about it,” said Feingold. “It also makes me very proud to be an American. The United States is an amazing country that allows people to live freely. When my family finally made their way to the United States, it gave us a fresh opportunity to become successful and to live without fear. It is this pride that has led me to joining the U.S. military. The United States has created a safe haven for my family after 6 million Jews were massacred in Europe.”

Feingold said that he has a very specific hope for the future. He believes that it is very important to study what actually occurred during the

Holocaust in order to understand the underlying currents of hatred and discrimination that allowed such a thing to happen.

“I read a survey done by the Anti-Defamation League, which is an international Jewish human rights organization,” said Feingold.

“They surveyed tens of thousands of people in over 100 countries, and nearly 50 percent of people said they had never heard of the Holocaust, and of those who did know what the Holocaust was, nearly one-third of them said they thought the Holocaust was a myth.”

Feingold discussed how communities and societies can change rapidly, and that it is important to spread awareness about the Holocaust. Schoen Consulting, a New York research company, recently found that nearly one-fourth of millennials did not know if they had ever heard of the Holocaust and nearly two-thirds of millennials did not know what Auschwitz, the largest concentration camp where more than 1 million Jews were killed, was. Feingold appreciates the famous quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Forces in Europe in World War II and 34th President of the United States: “Get it all on record now — get the films — get the witnesses — because somewhere down the track of history, some bastard will get up and say that this never happened.”

Newbill said that through trials and tribulations, families can persevere and pass on stories that can influence people for generations to come.

For more news from USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), visit www.dvidshub.net/unit/ CVN78.

“Early detection gave us more time to find information and support together.”

If you’re noticing changes, it could be Alzheimer’s.

Talk about visiting a doctor together.

ALZ.org/TimeToTalk

6 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

Fathomwerx Lab Named California ‘iHub2’ to Lead to More Innovation

By Patrick Maio

Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division

PORT HUENEME, Ca. — Fathomwerx Lab, a collaborative, innovative partnership between Naval Surface Warfare Center, Port Hueneme Division (NSWC PHD) in California and local private and public organizations that researches emerging technologies to potentially transition to the Navy fleet, has been designated an Inclusive Innovative Hub, or iHub2, from California’s Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA), a department within The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz).

The state designation gives Fathomwerx Lab the ability to pursue venture capital funding from outside investors for individual projects that promote inclusivity and a diverse network of innovators.

The designation also supports the partnership’s work on potential new technologies with the hiring of a full-time program manager for the lab, and lines up possible future government funding sources that could help attract more local commercial businesses to the lab and its capabilities.

The program manager would work with companies that are typically underrepresented but have unique capabilities or technology solutions which would benefit the Navy and regional ecosystem, and build engagement programs related to capabilities and needs.

“The recently announced iHub2 resources will expand Fathomwerx’s access to a diverse and under-represented network of innovators, and that could realistically lead to fresh and potential solutions to national security initiatives,” said Jeff Koe, technical director of NSWC PHD, at an April 12 event to announce Fathomwerx Lab’s iHub2 designation and held at the facility’s Port of Hueneme location.

The iHub2 designation comes with a $250,000 grant—the size of which could become a down payment for future grants—from the Office of the Small Business Advocate’s Inclusive Innovation Hub program, according to Tara Lynn Gray, CalOSBA director.

“We want to elevate the voice of small business across California,” Gray said at the event.

The original iHub program has been around for a decade, but this is the first time that money has come with the designation to collaborative partnerships, she explained.

The iHub2 grant supports an inclusive ecosystem for entrepreneurs and small companies over the next three years by providing them with high-technology services, workshops and mentoring and networking events.

Besides Fathomwerx, Gray’s office also made nine other regional private-public partnership grants of $250,000 to similar efforts underway from San Diego to Santa Cruz, California. The Fathomwerx funding is significant because it represents the first-ever funding for an iHub in

Elected officials from Ventura County and the local Economic Development Collaborative come together on April 12 with state officials for an announcement that Fathomwerx Lab received a California’s Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) grant and designation as an iHub2, or Inclusive Innovation Hub. (DANA RENE WHITE)

which the Navy, or any military branch for that matter, is involved, Gray said.

And more funding could also be on the way.

Gray told the event attendees that California Gov. Gavin Newsom is seeking $20 million in additional funding for iHubs—including the designation of three additional iHubs throughout the state—in the fiscal year beginning July 1.

That budget proposal has not yet been approved by the state legislature.

Fathomwerx Lab’s origin began in 2019, when NSWC PHD partnered with the Economic Development Collaborative, a Ventura County business advocacy group, the Port of Hueneme and Camarillo, California-based startup studio Matter Labs to create, an incubator that collaborates with high-technology startups to transition applicable technology to the Navy’s warfighters and fleet.

NSWC PHD and its partners offer the 60,000 square-foot Fathomwerx facility to NSWC PHD employees as well as private industry and academic stakeholders to innovate in the facility.

Researchers experiment, manufacture, 3D-print and perform materials testing in the maker space portion of the lab, while other visiting organizations and companies test and practice underwater submersibles in a 75,000-gallon water tank. Still others use the lab’s drone cage to test unmanned vehicles.

The Naval Agility Office’s (NavalX) Ventura Tech Bridge operates out of NSWC PHD’s Fathomwerx Lab, and last year welcomed a new partner in the Naval Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center, which operates out of Naval Base Ventura County. And just

recently, NSWC PHD and Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, which performs weapons research, development, acquisition and test and evaluation in its state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities in Point Mugu and China Lake, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to share resources, lab space, research and problem-solving while also creating a pipeline of communication and innovation.

“We’re really excited where we are going now,” said Alan Jaeger, the command’s Office of Research and Technology Applications manager and director of the Ventura Tech Bridge.

The new iHUB2 designation, Jaeger said, helps Fathomwerx to further “find and engage the community, companies and ecosystems that maybe we didn’t have before.”

An important aspect of the CalOSBA grant is the establishment of funding for the fulltime program manager and a contract with Matter Labs, according to Bruce Stenslie, president and CEO of the Economic Development Collaborative, which will administer the iHub2 in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

“This is our most strategic initiative,” Stenslie said.

“We are collectively thrilled for the recognition by the state and for its investment,” he added. “This new state and local partnership delivers value for us both, assuring that California continues to invest in the kinds of innovation that drives our economic vitality, and that locally, we’re adding resources to assure the economic participation and benefit by historically under-represented populations.”

Other attendees of the press conference included representatives of the cities of Oxnard and Simi Valley; the Ventura County Workforce Development Board; City National Bank; Mechanics Bank; and the office of State Sen. Monique Limon, who represents Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Kristin Decas, CEO and director of the Port of Hueneme, also attended with others from the port, and gave opening remarks.

“As one of the founding partners of Fathomwerx (Lab), the Port of Hueneme is excited that the iHub2 program will bolster the advancement of an inclusive service and provide resources to support ongoing change for high-tech entrepreneurs and small business companies,” Decas said.

Bryan Went, co-founder and co-CEO of Matter Labs, outlined the importance of transferring technology and manufacturing processes out of Fathomwerx Lab, with the CalOSBA grant helping to fuel this effort.

In an example for attendees, he showed a battery-powered camera that can transmit and receive digitized images over long distances via radio waves in its own wireless network.

The idea of the camera grew out of technology first developed at Fathomwerx.

Went described the camera as but “one example of the commercialization of a technology that happened at a faster clip than anyone thought possible,” and said he sees the possibility of other commercialization projects coming to fruition as a result of the CalOSBA designation and funding.

Athens County, Ohio native completes tour of service with Commander, Task Force 70

By Petty Officer 2nd Class Askia Collins

Commander, Task Force 70 / Carrier Strike Group 5

YOKOSUKA, Japan — An Athens County, Ohio native and 2004 graduate of Alexander High School has completed his tour serving as the Assistant Chief of Staff (ACOS) for N1 (Administration Personnel) as well as serving as Flag Secretary for Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, the Navy’s only permanently afloat Task Force, April 30.

Lt. Hershel “Ed” LeMaster is an Administrative Limited Duty Officer (LDO), also referred to as a “Mustang.”

Mustangs are technical leaders who have promoted up from the enlisted ranks based on their experience and performance. They are the primary manpower source for technically specific billets supporting the war-fighting capability and readiness of Naval Forces.

LeMaster started his naval career shortly after graduating high school by enlisting as a Yeoman. He graduated his initial Yeoman school in Meridian, Mississippi with honors. He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Administration and Financial Services from Columbia College in 2008 and a Master of Science Degree in Business Administration from Grantham University in 2012. He achieved the rank of Chief Yeoman before he was commissioned as an Administrative LDO in 2015.

As the CTF 70 ACOS N1, LeMaster advised on general and manning Strike Group and Staff administrative matters and assisted three Admiral’s in accomplishing their managerial responsibilities during his two-year tour on staff.

Quote about CTF 70 from Mr. LeMaster: “This tour has been the most challenging and the most rewarding of my 18 years in the U.S. Navy so far. The rela-

Lt. Hershel“Ed”LeMaster, an Athens County, Ohio native and 2004 graduate of Alexander High School, poses for a photo on the flight deck of aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) April. 22. LeMaster has completed his tour serving as the Assistant Chief of Staff (ACOS) for N1 (Administration Personnel) as well as serving as Flag Secretary for Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, the Navy’s only permanently afloat Task Force and will depart the command April 30. (MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS ASKIA COLLINS)

tionships, experiences, and memories I have made here I will never forget.”

LeMaster deployed to U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility aboard America’s only forward- deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) from 18 May to 16 October 2021. While underway, CTF 70 operates under the title of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5. In addition to his administrative duties, LeMaster also qualified as Tactical Action Officer (TAO) and stood over 70 combat watches during Operations Allies Refuge, Freedom Sentinel, and South China Sea transits.

LeMaster performed in an outstanding fashion while executing CTF 70 and CTF 50 administrative duties. In the midst of a global pandemic and with only weeks

to prepare for change in tasking, CSG 5 deployed with a 98.7 percent immunized force of over 5,800 Sailors, unprecedented at the time for a carrier strike group. The strike group conducted a vast array of operations to include close air support for troops and civilians on the ground in Afghanistan and assisting in the development of a safe haven providing humanitarian aid and assistance for over 7,000 Afghanistan evacuees for the largest non-combatant evacuation operation in history. CSG 5 provided armed over watch and ensured Motor Vessel Mercer Street’s safe voyage following a fatal attack that killed two crew members.

The strike group operated alongside United States Maritime partners from

the United Kingdom, Japan, Netherlands, Germany, France, India, Pakistan, and Oman to include multiple multi-carrier operations in the Arabian and Philippine Seas with CSG 21 and HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08), as well as the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force Ship ISE (DDH-182) and the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) carrier strike group.

CSG 5’s on time tactical prowess, operational employment, professional innovation and strategic development was essential to meeting Presidential tasking of ending our nation’s longest war.

LeMaster was a direct administrative advisor to the Commander for this entire deployment.

Lt. Lemaster’s next duty station will be Naval Air Station Pensacola.

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 7

Language from Page 1

managing the Navy’s plans, policies, and programs to foster, develop, and maintain language proficiency, regional expertise, and cultural literacy in order to increase lethality of Navy forces and expand and strengthen the Navy’s network of allies and partners in the global operating environment.

Ratkus started the visit by providing a brief overview of training provided at Corry Station from the crow’s nest of the headquarters so the group could see the buildings where the training being discussed were located. Following the overview, Ratkus spent time during the office call in quickly discussing the rest of the Information Warfare Training Commands before going into depth about the LREC program.

One of the issues discussed was the consolidation of the language testing locations. Ratkus explained that they have now shifted to a hub and spoke model to provide language testing to overseas locations following the closure of overseas Navy college offices. The former system had numerous testing locations, however in the current resource constrained environment they have had to shift to a few permanent hubs with capability to travel to other regional locations to provide periodic testing services.

During their discussion, Lewis asked how capable the center was in making course corrections as the information environment and Navy needs shift. Ratkus highlighted the center’s training readiness reviews, occupational standards reviews and other processes in place to stay current with emerging trends as they evaluate the current operating environment and make corrections to keep pace with changes as they are assessed.

In addition, they discussed the training virtual environment and persistent cyber training environments, cloud-based training solutions, to increase access to courses at more locations with less cost associated with travel and housing of students in limited capacity, fixed locations. Ratkus said he believes that these types of solutions and .edu-like capabilities are prime

Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) arrives in Goa, India for a scheduled port visit, April 23. (MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 3RD CLASS LILY GEBAUER)

USS Momsen Arrives in Goa, India

By Petty Officer 3Rd Class Lily Gebauer Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron 15

Capt. Marc Ratkus, commanding officer of Center for Information Warfare Training, provided a brief overview of domain training to James Lewis, senior language authority and director of the Navy Language, Regional Expertise, and Culture, and Cryptologic Technician Interpretive Master Chief Kenneth Paulsen, senior rating advisor for the CTI rating to the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Information Warfare/Director of Naval Intelligence, from the crow’s nest of the headquarters on Corry Station, Apr. 21, 2022. ( KURT VAN SLOOTEN)

for language training.

Before getting into the language education discussions in the afternoon part of the visit, Lewis was given a tour of the LREC office on Corry Station by Chris Wise, CIWT’s LREC Program Manager.

While meeting the LREC staff, Lewis commented that his office is discussing a one-time language testing bonus to identify Russian and Ukrainian language speakers currently in the force, stemming from Russia’s war on Ukraine.

During the afternoon session, the group

was provided an in depth overview of the language training that CIWT provides to support the cryptologic technician interpretive rating, the foreign area officer program and other Navy linguists, as well as the foreign language and culture training CIWT provides to support the fleet.

Center for Information Warfare Training delivers trained information warfare professionals to the Navy and joint services, enabling optimal performance of information warfare across the full spectrum of military operations.

GOA, India — Guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) arrived in Goa, India, April 23 for a scheduled port visit.

Sailors aboard Momsen will be able to experience a new culture and appreciate all that India has to offer.

For many Sailors, this port visit will be their first time in India.

“I can’t wait to see the architecture in Goa,” says Sonar Technician (Surface) 3rd Class Jacob Lynch, from Albuquerque, New Mexico. “I love history, so I am excited to have the chance to see some of the important churches and landmarks in the area. We also plan to go hiking and see the natural side of the area, too. Of course, I am just as excited to try some new foods. I joined the Navy to travel, and now I’m going to be in an entirely new country. It’s one of the perks of the job.”

The Momsen’s arrival provides opportunity for Sailors to engage with the culture and community of Goa. The Momsen is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

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8 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 2 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

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Pack a Perfect Al Fresco Pairing

No picnic is complete without sandwiches loaded with all your favorite toppings, and these Picnic-wiches. PAGE C4

(Courtesy of The Virginia Arts Festival)

The 2022 Virginia International Tattoo, March On! A Celebration of Resilience! Returns to the Norfolk Scope April 28th-May 1st!!

Interview conducted by Yiorgo The Virginia Arts Festival proudly presents the 2022 Virginia International Tattoo, March On! A Celebration of Resilience! April 28thMay 1st at the Norfolk Scope. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary season, it is the largest spectacle of music and might in the United States. The 2022 Tattoo features an all-new international cast, a musical tribute to “March King” by John Phillip Souza and a very emotional celebration of the resilience of the human spirit.

The best way to describe it is that it is in the style of the old fashioned Epic motion picture with a patriotic theme, performed live, with a huge international cast, stunning costumes, intricate choreography, a dramatic soundtrack, and a spectacle in all senses of the word.

For tickets and more info, go to www.vafest. org or call 757 282-2822.

With us today is Portsmouth’s own National Champion Scottish Fiddler and singer, Seán Heely who will be performing in the Tattoo.

Yiorgo: Why should people come to the Virginia International Tattoo? What should they expect to see, hear and get out of it?

Seán Heely: It is one of the only performances in the country. It is modeled after the original one in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is obviously not the same. It truly is an international show with performers from all over the world as well as local talent such as bagpipe bands, dancers, myself included. This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the Tattoo. It is a big year and I am

Seán Heely. (COURTESY OF THE VIRGINIA ARTS FESTIVAL)

honored and excited to be involved.

Y: For those not familiar with it, how would you describe it?

SH: The reason it is called the Tattoo is it comes from the ‘doe den, tap toe’ military phrase shouted by the 17th century innkeepers to “turn off the tapps’ ‘ and the soldiers to return to their barracks. You are going to

see a lot of military bands representing all of our branches and of course the Scottish military bands are highlighted. There are lots of performers, usually about 200.

Y: What will you be doing in the show?

SH: I will be performing with a singer from Scotland that was in the original show in Edinburgh. He is bringing over an accor-

dion player as well so we will have a lot of fun. I have a segment in the beginning, middle and the end so I will be in the show throughout and that is really exciting. I have a solo, I am performing with the band but you will definitely hear me and of course with the singer from Scotland.

Y: This is your third time performing in the Tattoo. What have been some of your fondest memories performing at the Tattoo so far and why?

SH: For me, it’s always about the new people from all over the world I would get to meet during the week either at the rehearsals or going out to eat. Last time I was there was a pipe band from New Zealand and they were really great. With me being in the Scottish fiddle world games and seeing a lot of those groups there, the Tattoo gives us the opportunity to reconnect and fellowship together. So many of them have been to multiple shows that it’s easy to pick up where we left off.

Also the amazing staff behind the scenes are just as important and they have been really fun and supportive to get to know over the years. In terms of the music, my favorite has been playing for the dancers. Last time I played this really hard piece for this dance group that was a mix from Australia, Scotland and local dancers and it was really fun playing for them.

Y: What has impressed you the most Turn to Tattoo, Page 3

VCW is back in Norfolk on Saturday April 30th

By The 757 Heater Virginia Championship Wrestling is back at the Norfolk Masonic Temple this Saturday night April 30th with a stacked card of professional wrestling action! The Norfolk Masonic Temple is located at 7001 Granby Street in Norfolk right next door to Granby High School. Doors open at 6:30 PM with bell time scheduled for 7:30 PM. Ringside seats are $25 and stadium seating (general admission) are just $20. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at vcwprowrestling.com. There isn’t a better value for live sports entertainment anywhere else in Tidewater!

The main event for this month’s card is an explosive Four Way Dance for the Virginia Heavyweight Championship. Ken Dixon defends the gold against “Mr. Xcellence” Brandon Scott, Dirty Money, and current VCW Liberty Champion “Greek God” Papadon. This bout will be one-fall to a finish, which means the first man to score a pin or submission will walk out of Norfolk as the champion. The road to this contest has been filled with twists and turns, as all four men appear to have varying degrees of grievances with each other. As you may recall, Dixon won the championship from Scott back in November of 2021 despite Dirty Money being the rightful number one contender.

Money had been injured by Scott following his victory at the Liberty Lottery and was on the shelf due to ankle surgery at the time.

When Money finally received his title match last month, VCW Director of Operations designated “Mr. Xcellence” (his long-time friend) as the special guest referee. As you can imagine, this bout was ripe with questionable decisions. Eventually, both the champion and challenger grew tired of their special guest referee and unceremoniously hurled Scott from the ring! When VCW senior official Ron Mils attempted to restore some order to the bout, Brandon Scott pulled him out to the floor and smashed his head into the ring post. Scott would then disqualify both Dixon and Money which gave the fans no clear winner. Seconds later, “Greek God” Papadon, who has made it his mission to win every championship in VCW, hit the ring to attack Ken Dixon. This resulted in a massive locker room clearing brawl that had the VCW faithful on their feet! As the dust settled, Dixon would grab the microphone to challenge all three men to a match for his Virginia Heavyweight Championship.

Just last week, it was confirmed that VCW Commissioner George Pantas has secured Brian Hebner as the referee for this incredible match. Hebner, a Virginia native and second-generation referee, has officiated main events on the grandest stage of them all. “I want to ensure that we have a clear and decisive winner on April 30th,” Pantas stated.

“Brian Hebner has kept the order with some of the biggest names in the sport. I’m excited to have him join VCW.” So much can happen in this bout, but only one man can carry the

(Jonathan McLarty)

title to this year’s Liberty Lottery in July.

Speaking of the Liberty Lottery, on April 30th there will also be a number one contender match to determine who faces the Virginia Heavyweight Champion at the biggest event of the year. Former champion Gino Medina locks up with Ser Rios De La Sangre in a bout that was originally scheduled for February, but postponed due to travel issues. Rios wrestles predominantly in Mexico and was victorious in his VCW debut. These two have a history as both enemies and allies, so it will be interesting

to see how this one plays out in Norfolk.

At “Tough Luck” in March, we learned that VCW Tag Team Champions Black Wallstreet have been stripped of their titles due to ninety days expiring with no defenses. After a victory in the first-ever High NRG Rules Match earlier this year, Dezmon King and Isaiah Frazier are the rightful number one contenders to the gold. However, the Director of Operations has stated that he does not want to simply hand them the titles. ThereTurn to VCW, Page 3

INSIDE: Check out Flagship Values, your source for automobiles, employment, real estate and more! Pages C6-7

2

The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

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New Aquazoid Amped™ to Open at Water Country USA on May 27, Members Receive Exclusive Early Access Beginning May 14 From Water Country USA WILLIAMSBURG, Va. — Water Country USA, voted one of the country’s top ten waterparks by USA Today will open on May 14 for the 2022 season. Beginning on Opening Day, Members will be the first to ride Aquazoid Amped before the ride opens to the public on May 27. Plus, guests of all ages can make a splash this season at Water Country USA, with the all-new Lil’ Surfers Splash Pad, created for the park’s youngest visitors, and Surfer’s Bay Bar, the perfect place to unwind and sip on tropical libations.

Aquazoid Amped debuts on May 27 with an ALL-NEW twist to an iconic water ride.

The full-sensory, immersive ride experience includes a new special effects show, pulse-pounding music, and dynamic lighting effects. Riders will feel the thrill as they

plunge down 864 feet of fully enclosed, twisting tube at speeds of 20 feet per second.

“The opening of Aquazoid Amped is the perfect way to continue growing our park’s attraction portfolio by introducing new and exhilarating elements to a fan-favorite ride”, said Kevin Lembke, Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA Park President.

The 2022 Water Country USA Season continues to make a splash with the unveiling of the new Lil’ Surfers Splash Pad and Surfer’s Bay Bar, opening this June: Kids can hang ten at the all-new Lil’ Surfers Splash Pad, located across from Surfer’s Bay Wave Pool. Designed with the youngest water lovers in mind, the surf-inspired Splash Pad features dynamic fountains, splashy spray cannons and a kiddie water slide. Fans of Water Country USA’s other

kid-friendly areas, H20 UFO and Cow-ABunga, will find Lil’ Surfers to be the coolest new spot in the park.

Guests will enjoy an all-new wave of refreshment and relaxation at the revamped Surfer’s Bay Bar this summer. Overlooking Virginia’s largest wave pool, the full-service bar will feature craft beers on tap and frozen concoctions to indulge in while fueling up for a day full of fun at Water Country USA. In between thrilling rides on fan-favorite slides, this tropical oasis is the perfect place to unwind.

Best Way to Visit and Slide — Water Country USA Spring Sale The best way to get early access to Aquazoid Amped and experience the fun all season long is with a Water Country USA Membership. For a limited time only, visitors can save up to 20 percent on the purchase of a

Busch Gardens and Water Country Membership. Memberships start as low as $14.40 a month during the sale. Members receive 12 months of visits with special benefits including, free parking, up to six free guest tickets, savings on merchandise and exclusive perks throughout the year. The savings continue with single and multi-day tickets, where guests can save up to 25 percent. Hurry, offer ends on May 1.

To be the first to know about event details and specials, follow Water Country USA on Facebook and Instagram.

About Water Country USA Water Country USA® is Virginia’s largest family water park featuring fun for the entire family in a cool beach vibe, with resort-style amenities and more than 40 state-of-theart water rides and attractions including Cutback Water Coaster® the only RocketBLAST® coaster on the East Coast. For more information, visit WaterCountryUSA.com.

Water Country USA is owned by SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leading theme park and entertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world. The SeaWorld® rescue team has helped more than 38,000 animals in need over the Company’s history.

• Columbine represents aspiration, endurance, risk-taking, good fortune, faith, and peace.

• Lupin - stands for imagination, admiration, and overall happiness.

• Purple Morning Glory symbolizes royalty, nobility, beauty, innocence and love.

The mural has been made possible through the generous contributions from presenting sponsor, Drucker and Falk,

with additional support provided by Medical Center Radiologists, Inc., PRA Group Inc. and Christian Strange, State Farm.

Members of the media are invited to join the artist, sponsors and staff at the unveiling and reception on Thursday, April 28, 2022 from 5-7 p.m. at the 757Makerspace Dream Factory, located at 237 W. 24th Street, Norfolk, VA 23517. Interviews with the sponsors and artist can be arranged. Please contact Andrew Roberts if interested.

SAMARITAN HOUSE UNVEILING MURAL IN NORFOLK’S RAILROAD DISTRICT TO COMMEMORATE CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH From Samaritan House VIRGINIA BEACH, VA — Samaritan House is proud to be adding a bold splash of color to Norfolk’s up and coming Railroad District with a mural to commemorate Child Abuse Prevention Month (CAP) that will inspire and raise awareness of this issue. Samaritan House is partnering with local artist Parrish Majestic, Drucker and Falk and 757Makerspace to make this mural a reality and will formally unveil the mural on Thursday, April 28 at a reception from 5-7 p.m. at 757Makerspace.

“Our support of Samaritan House for the last several years is an extension of our corporate commitment that every person, especially our children, deserve a safe and healthy home in which to grow and prosper. Drucker + Falk is sponsoring the mural located in the new Railroad District in Norfolk. It is our way of reminding those that pass by that the abuse of children must be stopped and is also our way of thanking those who dedicate their time, energy and heart to helping those in need,” said Wendy Drucker, Managing Director, Drucker and

(COURTESY PHOTO)

Falk.

The artist, Parrish Majestic, has painted several murals in the ViBe District in Virginia Beach and the Neon District in Norfolk. Parrish’s vision for the mural incorporates the sun and waves found in coastal Virginia and includes flowers that reflect the mission of Samaritan House and also have meaning to those we serve.

• Forget-Me-Nots symbolize true love and respect.

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 3

Tattoo from Page 1

about the other performers?

SH: It’s not often that I do huge shows like that. Usually I am in smaller groups like my band but working with such a large array of musicians is pretty incredible. I remember being amazed at all the people working behind the scenes working very hard to get everyone to their places on time. It is such a rigorous schedule that they manage to keep and what that poor sound engineer has to do. Every time the show comes out looking great, and that is because of the hard work of all those behind the scenes and the performers working together.

For me it is always interesting because they usually have me on a riser at some point and I have to watch a conductor that is hundreds of feet or yards away from me.

Basically, I can’t trust my ears at all because of the echo in there so they have a monitor that plays back what I’m playing so there is no delay, but I have to glue my eyes to the baton and make sure we are on the same beat so that is pretty neat.

Y: Where were you born and how did you fall in love with music and violin/ fiddle?

SH: I was born in Chesapeake, Virginia and I grew up in Portsmouth where I live now. I was 10 years old when I got started on the violin and I was singing when I was very, very young. My dad’s side were all musicians and they all played some kind of instrument. My earliest memories are of all

VCW

from Page 1

fore, the Golden Pinky Society will get one final opportunity to become champions this Saturday night when they lock up with King and Frazier. “Diamond” Victor Griff has been struggling as of late, suffering a series of losses in both singles and tag team matches. His losses have become so apparent that Stephanitsis has declared if the Golden Pinky Society fail to win the titles, he will personally fire Griff in the center of the ring! Could this be the end of the Golden Pinky Society? Or will Benjamin Banks and “Diamond” Victor Griff finally climb to the top of the VCW mountain?

Logan Easton Laroux has been telling anyone that will listen that he is the present and future of professional wrestling in Virginia. Most recently, he choked out his longtime frenemy Bobby Shields in Shields’ final VCW match. Not exactly a respectful way to end someone’s tenure. Those sorts of tactics will be much more challenging to implement on Saturday night, as Laroux takes on Brazilian Jiujitsu World Champion Tim Spriggs. Spriggs may be new to professional wrestling, but his resume in BJJ speaks for itself. This author thinks Laroux would be hard-pressed to chokeout the black belt, but don’t tell him that.

Seán Heely. (COURTESY OF THE VIRGINIA ARTS FESTIVAL)

of us gathering around my grandma’s piano and all of us singing Australian folk songs because she was from there. So I grew up singing sea shanties. When I picked up the violin, that became a priority and I was not singing much anymore.

I went through a classical track as well

Laroux claims to have been training with the best BJJ coaches his vast fortune can buy. Perhaps the “Champion of the 1%” has something up his sleeve.

In other action, the ever-popular Boar will step in the ring with the bruising Devantes, who will be accompanied by “Manager of Champions” Neil Sharkey.

Speaking of Sharkey, he has agreed to participate in a face-to-face interview with long-time nemesis Phil Brown in a special edition of Loulies Lounge hosted by “The Big 44” Tim Loulies. Sharkey has made it clear that he intends to get the better of Brown once and for all, as these two have a history in VCW that goes back roughly twenty years. Loulies isn’t exactly known for his fair and balanced interview style. Does Sharkey have an ulterior motive for agreeing to this? Loulies Lounge is sponsored by the Virginia Beach Funny Bone.

VCW always brings fans a night to remember, and this Saturday will be no different! The Norfolk Masonic Temple is located at 7001 Granby Street in Norfolk right next door to Granby High School.

Doors open at 6:30 PM with bell time scheduled for 7:30 PM. Ringside seats are $25 and stadium seating (general admission) are just $20. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at vcwprowrestling.com.

We’ll see you at the matches!

at the same time learning fiddle music. In college I was taking very advanced technical techniques on the violin. I took a camp in Maine with Liz Carroll who is a Chicago born Irish fiddle player and a living legend and she greatly influenced me to start doing this music very seriously. After graduation

I devoted myself to becoming an expert in that music and that led to many great things like singing and singing in Scottish Galic and preserving that language. It led me into picking up the mandocello and I play the harp as well.

Y: You have been nationally recognized for your accomplishments.

SH: In 2016 I won the US National Scottish Fiddle Championship. I now train students to compete and I have had two of my students win the US Junior Nationals in the last two years alone.

Y: Can you share a wow, pinch me moment or two?

SH: I have been able to travel all over and the first time I saw The Isle of Skye in Scotland and climbing the summit and looking at the just incredible, indescribable beauty was definitely a wow, I finally made it over before anybody else in my family.

In terms of performing, I had these mentors like Liz Carroll, Alastir Frazier that are responsible for the way I sound because I have studied them and any time I get to share the stage or work with them is definitely a pinch me moment because I hold them in such high regard for so long that to be at their level working with them.

Y: How can people follow you on social media and where can they sign up for classes?

SH: They can go to my website seanheely. com for all the info Yiorgo is an arts, entertainment and sports writer. A stage, TV and movie actor, he is also a sports entertainer, educator, motivational speaker, writer, storyteller and columnist.

(Jonathan McLarty)

I asked what kind of family Amina wanted.

She said, ‘A family like yours.’ That’s when I knew I had to adopt her.

Denise, adopted 17-year-old Amina

LEARN ABOUT ADOPTING A TEEN YOU CAN’T IMAGINE THE REWARD

A D O P T USK I D S .ORG

4 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

Food

Picnic-wiches with Greek Artichoke Beet Salad. (COURTESY PHOTO)

Pack a Perfect Al Fresco Pairing

By Family Features Heading outdoors for a fresh, homemade meal is an alluring activity when warm weather and sunshine provide a perfect opportunity for dining on the patio. Or, if some time away from the house is calling your name, packing a lunch and taking off for the park can be an ideal getaway without getting too far from home.

Next time the sun’s rays call your name, invite friends and family for a delicious picnic loaded with warm-weather flavors.

Just lay out your favorite blanket on the grass or don an outdoor table with a classic checkered tablecloth then share recipes that make al fresco meals truly memorable.

No picnic is complete without sandwiches loaded with all your favorite toppings, and these Picnic-wiches with Greek Artichoke Beet Salad provide the freshness that outdoor meals are made of.

This recipe starts with a homemade relish loaded with Aunt Nellie’s Pickled Beets, artichoke hearts, olives and green onions that complements the winning combination of turkey, feta and ciabatta.

Pair your party tray of sandwiches with a perfect partner like Bean, Tortellini and Pesto Salad made with READ Bean Salad for a complete spread that’ll leave you waiting for the next opportunity to take mealtime outdoors. With just a handful of ingredients and customizable with your desired stir-ins

Bean, Tortellini and Pesto Salad. (COURTESY PHOTO)

like tomatoes, peppers and green onions, it’s ready in next to no time.

To find more picnic-worthy appetizers, meals, sides and more, visit readsalads.com and auntnellies.com.

Picnic-wiches with Greek Artichoke Beet Salad Servings: 6 1 jar (16 ounces) Aunt Nellie’s Sliced Pick-

led Beets 1 jar (about 6 ounces) marinated artichoke hearts ½ cup pitted kalamata or ripe olives, sliced 3 tablespoons sliced green onions freshly ground black pepper, to taste (optional) 6 romaine lettuce leaves 1 pound thinly sliced deli turkey

6 ciabatta or sandwich rolls, sliced horizontally ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup pine nuts, toasted Drain beets and artichoke hearts, reserving ¼ cup liquid from each. Coarsely chop beets and artichoke hearts. In medium bowl, combine beets, artichokes, olives and green onions; set aside.

In small bowl, whisk reserved beet and artichoke liquids. Pour over beet mixture; toss gently to coat. Season with black pepper, to taste, if desired.

Layer lettuce and turkey on bottom halves of rolls. Top with relish, as desired; feta cheese; and pine nuts. Top with remaining halves of rolls. Wrap tightly; chill up to 4 hours. Serve with remaining relish.

Bean, Tortellini and Pesto Salad Servings: 6 2 cans (15 ounces each) READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad ¼ cup prepared basil pesto ½ teaspoon salt (optional) 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated tortellini grape tomatoes (optional) halved cherry tomatoes (optional) chopped bell pepper (optional) thinly sliced green onions (optional) Drain bean salad, reserving ½ cup liquid.

In bowl, combine reserved liquid, pesto and salt, if desired; set aside.

Cook tortellini according to package directions; drain, rinse in cold water and drain again. Add pesto dressing; toss to coat. Add grape tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper and green onion, as desired.

Toss with bean salad.

Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Swing Into Spring with a Special Dessert

By Family Features It’s tough to top the joy of a spring morning spent celebrating with family, enjoying a delicious brunch or snacking on sweet treats. With warmer weather and bright sunshine comes plenty of opportunities to enjoy favorite recipes.

Celebrating the season with eggs can bring loved ones together in the kitchen and beyond, from crafting classic desserts to serving up new delights. Plus, the versatility of eggs allows for nearly countless creations.

Boiled, scrambled, poached, baked and any other way you like them, eggs can be your kitchen superhero. As a natural source of vitamins and minerals, they’re a delicious protein powerhouse with just 70 calories per large egg.

Make the celebration truly memorable with the power of eggs in a sweet dessert like these Meringue Nests with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream and Strawberries, a perfect option for topping off a brunch feast or an afternoon meal.

Find more spring recipe ideas and ways to celebrate the season at incredibleegg.org.

Meringue Nests with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream and Strawberries Recipe courtesy of the American Egg Board and Sam Adler (@frostingandfettucine) Prep time: 15 minutes Total time: 6 hours Servings: 6 Meringue Nests:

Meringue Nests with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream and Strawberries. (COURTESY PHOTO)

1 ¼ cups granulated sugar 6 large eggs 1 teaspoon cream of tartar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 teaspoons cornstarch Garnish: 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon granulated sugar ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, scraped) ½ pint fresh strawberries, sliced To make meringue nests: Preheat oven to 200 F. On parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spread sugar evenly and bake 5-7 minutes to slightly heat. Remove sugar from oven then increase oven temperature

to 225 F. Carefully separate egg whites from yolks completely. In bowl of hand or stand mixer fitted with whip attachment, whisk egg whites on medium-low speed until foamy about 1 minute.

Slowly add sugar 2-3 tablespoons at a time and mix on medium speed 2 minutes between each addition. Sugar needs completely mixed into egg whites to ensure success. Continue mixing on medium until mixed through and meringue does not feel gritty.

Add cream of tartar, vanilla extract and cornstarch. Increase to high speed and beat until stiff peaks form.

On two parchment paper-lined baking sheets, pipe or spread meringue with spoon into six 4-inch circular “nests.”

Bake 1 hour, 15 minutes then turn off oven and let meringues cool without opening oven for at least 4 hours or overnight.

The USDA recommends egg dishes be cooked to 160 F. To make garnish: When ready to serve, in clean mixing bowl fitted with whip attachment, whip heavy whipping cream on medium speed. Slowly add sugar and vanilla. Continue mixing on high speed 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form.

Dollop whipped cream on meringue nests and top with sliced strawberries.

www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 5

Health

Airman 1st Class Rocio Romo, Space Launch Delta 30 public affairs specialist, and her son pose for a photo at Cocheo Park on Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, March 25, 2022. During the month of April, we celebrate Month of the Military Child to highlight the sacrifices military children make on the home front while their parents serve the United States. (AIRMAN KADIELLE SHAW)

How to Help Military Children Reconnect After Two Years of the Pandemic

By Janet A. Aker

MHS Communications

The COVID-19 pandemic has been extraordinarily challenging for even the most resilient kids. The lockdowns and countless precautions have resulted in isolation and a loss of normal opportunities for children to just be children.

What can parents and the broader military community do to restore a sense of normality? How can we help these kids to catch up in school, develop age-appropriate behaviors and maintain good mental health?

There’s no easy answer.

“It depends, because it’s a very personalized experience,” said Army Lt. Col. (Dr.) Bonnie Jordan, a child development expert stationed at Madigan Army Medical CenterMadigan Army Medical Center website at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.

The social, emotional and academic issues that children may face can vary a lot with age. Nevertheless, all children — young, tween, adolescent — could be at risk.

“There is a developmental gap from being out of the school environment,” Jordan said.

“Educators around the country are seeing dramatic upticks in disciplinary problems,” she said. These may be minor, such as not following directions from the teacher, or major, such as physical fights or social media bullying.

“It’s related to the loss of social experience. Children have spent two years trying

to navigate the social experience, but that’s been replaced with difficult-to-wrangle social media. Social media is what they think is normal,” Jordan said.

“They have to learn how to interact with each other in person.”

At the same time, “many are behind academically,” she said.

In some families where parents are deployed or both work outside the home, “teenagers or younger kids are caring for their siblings. Older children are caretakers when they are supposed to be doing online learning. That can be a big stress for our youth.” Jordan said.

Signs of Trouble Jordan said there are three main signs of trouble parents should watch for.

Mental or behavioral health concerns Problems reintegrating back into the school social setting Gaps in academic learning A first key question for parents is: Is your child showing signs of depression or anxiety?

“Some early signs I see are irritability or anger,” Jordan said. For children, those can be real signs of depression or anxiety apart from more typical symptoms like changes in sleeping patterns, lack of appetite, and loss of desire to participate in activities they used to enjoy.

Second: “Is my child constantly not getting along with peers?” Jordan said.

“Are they getting into fights that are physical or verbal? Are they lonely and not able to make social connections? This can

impact mental health.”

A third concern that parents should be looking for: “Did my child join their peers educationally or are they more behind than others?” Jordan said.

Examples may include not being able to read at the appropriate grade level or having missed blocks of instruction that were available via virtual learning.

Jordan pointed out that some children may not be good at virtual learning. They may not have had a parent available every day to walk them through the instructions.

“It’s important to remember that children are returning to school with different academic strengths and needs.”

Importantly, all three can interact or compound each other. Jordan went on to say: “Children who are depressed will struggle more academically and children who are falling behind or lonely, are at risk of depression.”

Check-Ins Keeping children connected with others is essential, said Patti Johnson, a pediatric psychologist and doctorate who supports the Defense Health Agency’s Behavioral Health Clinical Management Team.

“It is important that the adults in their lives — parents, teachers, medical professionals, coaches, clergy, and so on — stay connected to these kids and be aware of how they are coping,” Johnson said.

“Adults should check-in with youth periodically, ask questions about how they are doing, give them space to respond or not, be aware that they may want or need to talk

but aren’t sure how to approach topics, give them permission to reach out, and don’t try to ‘fix’ their problems but rather listen and acknowledge their loss, grief, emotions,” she suggested.

There has been a “significant increase” in eating disorders in teens and young people, Jordan said.

“Suicidality is clearly on the rise in teens and ‘tweens but also in younger kids,” she added.

Coping Strategies “The best thing to do to help children and adolescents is to increase opportunities for guided social activities,” Jordan said.

On-post services often include youth centers, sports leagues, clubs, recreational activities, faith-based activities, classes, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation offerings, among others.

“They are structured enough so children don’t have to rely on their social skills. It encourages our youth to be involved,” Jordan said.

She also suggested that parents can foster improved social skills by setting up “positive social interactions,” along the lines of play dates but tailored to different ages and interests.

Johnson offered a list of coping skills that appear to help children and teens: Staying connected with friends and family Spending time outdoors in nature Exercising Using calming strategies such as journaling, relaxation, deep breathing, meditation, and yoga Engaging in enjoyable or meaningful activities as much as possible Limiting screen time Maintaining routines Getting adequate sleep

A History of the Combat Helmet and the Quest to Prevent Injuries

By Sean Webb

MHS Communications

As a critical piece of a warfighter’s protective gear, the combat helmet has vastly improved over the years as new technology and better designs have reduced the risk of fatal blows and traumatic brain injuries.

The earliest combat helmets were made from bronze and used to protect soldiers from swords and arrows. They were heavy, crudely designed and did not fit well.

During World War I and World War II, standard helmets were made from thin steel. They provided protection mainly against shrapnel rather than shock waves.

They were lighter and provided better protection than helmets from previous eras.

But at that time, soldiers were often reluctant to use their chin strap because they believed that “it was better for [the helmet] to be knocked off rather than injure the soldier’s neck,” said Alan Hawk, a collections manager for the National Museum of Health and MedicineNational Museum of Health and Medicine website, a branch of the Research Support Division in the Research & Engineering Directorate of the Defense Health Agency.

Technology and safety protocols have evolved in recent years, resulting in helmets that provide more protection from both projectiles and shock waves.

Lt. Gen. George S. Patton and Brig. Gen. Theodore Roosevelt Jr. are pictured here in 1943 wearing the standard M1 helmet, sometimes called the “steel pot.” (1ST INFANTRY DIVISION COURTESY PHOTO)

Modern Helmets Modern helmets became lighter as steel was replaced with composite materials like Kevlar. They now have padding and fitted chinstraps, allowing the helmet to stay attached during a blast.

Inside, they include an energy-absorbing liner. Modern helmets are designed and tested to meet consistent standards to protect soldiers from concussions and other injuries.

Visibility is also now a key factor to helmet design.

“The best helmet in the world is not effective if a soldier walks into an ambush due to hampered vision,” Hawk said.

In recent years, U.S. Special Opera-

tions Command helped develop a new helmet designed to integrate modern communications devices. The Army adopted a version of that helmet in 2002 and named it the Advanced Combat Helmet.

Modern helmets are also customized for specific jobs beyond the traditional infantry. Aircrew helmets protect from impact and noise. Helicopter aircrew have helmets that help protect against ricochets from the ground. Both helmets typically have built-in communications headsets and visors as well.

Modern helmet designers optimize protection using test standards and methods measuring the probability of neck injuries, concussions, and other

injuries for specific conditions like ejection, said Benjamin Steinhauer, an engineer for the Air Force Research Laboratory’s 711th Human Performance Wing.

The Future of Helmets New helmets focus on suspension technology, which uses shock absorbing webbing, and lightweight and crack resistant materials.

While experts agree there will never be a perfect helmet, the military continues to make significant gains in protecting service members from TBI and other injuries.

“We do find ways to make helmets lighter without sacrificing the mission,” Steinhauer said.

6 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

AntiquesSales & Collectibles Estate

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WE ARE THE “STRESS RELIEVERS”

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Cockatoo, too.

Pick a pet in the CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE.

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Goldendoodle puppies, ready for their new home. Have been vet checked, received first shot, dew claws removed and dewormed. Born 15Feb2022. $1200. Call or text 804690-7625.

MALTESE/SHIHTZU (MALSHI) HYPOALLERGENIC PUPPY

BICHON FRESE PUPS Ready now. Located in Ruther Glen, VA. $1,800. Text Marie for pics & info 210-584-8896 CANE CORSO Beautiful, purebred ICCF reg’d Cane Corso puppies, 3 males & 5 females.

Pups are 5 wks old, large heads & great bone structure. Parents have great temperament & come from a quality breeder, Jordan’s Cane Corso, who has 20+ yrs exp. Dogs will come with dew claws removed, tails docked & ears cropped (unless req otherwise). $2,500 -$3,000 & $3,200 for the pick male & female. Deposit is req to reserve puppy. Contact Jordan 804-347-2600.

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www.flagshipnews.com | The Flagship | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022 7 Autos for Sale

LINCOLN 2005 TOWN CAR

Signature Ltd. Pkg, same family since new, 36K orig. miles, sunroof, leather, original window sticker, factory chrome wheels, new Michelins, great service history, senior citizen auto, absolutely 100% new, $14,900. 757-675-0288. Va. Dlr.

SUBARU 2016 FORESTER Maintenance Estate Sales MECHANICS WANTED Must have 2+ years experience with electrical, air brakes systems, tire and trailer repair. Must be able to operate fork lifts and other heavy equipment. Needed welding certifications or 2+ years of welding experience in burning and welding 10-12 gauge steel with 6011 welding rods. Transportation Workers’ Identification Credential (TWIC) required. Please submit the following documents, post marked by May 6, 2022 or earlier - Current resume, valid drivers’ license, copy of current DMV report, copy of high school diploma, GED or transcript, current State Police report (not City.)

Send to: Employer - Maintenance & Repair, PO BOX 3487, Norfolk VA 23514

Garaged, loaded, 32k miles. $25k.

Call for pics (757) 679-4240

SUBARU 2018 FORESTER

1 owner, new from RK Chevrolet, 4x4, white, gray interior, many options, 32,800 miles. $27,000.

757-641-0737 or 757-735-3948

Boats & Watercraft CAROLINA SKIFF 2018 21’ Ultra Elite, Suzuki 175 hp 4 stroke, only 6 hrs. $39,995. Call Snyder’s RV 499-8000.

NEW & USED BOAT TRAILER SALE!!!

OVER 100 Avail. For Boats 12’-38’ BUDGET BOATS: (757) 543 -7595

Cockatoo, too.

Pick a pet in the CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE.

VOLKSWAGEN 2014 JETTA

Sport Wagon. Leather, turbo diesel, full sunroof, new insp. Looks great. $16,500. 757-675-0288. Va dlr

Classic, Antique Cars

YOUR PERFECT

HIRE

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We will purchase your collectible, classic, late model autos, we will come to you. Call 757-675-0288.

jobs.pilotonline.com

Trucks and SUVs

CHEVROLET 2020 1500

2022 LTD Custom Chevrolet 1500 Double Cab. 3Kmiles.39,5K$.Call 580-647-2609!!!

FORD 1997 EXPLORER

Runs & drives great, $999 OBO, call 757-270-6034.

JAGUAR 2017 F-PACE

Loaded, Pano sunroof, low miles, new inspection, AWD, all serviced. $34,900. 757-675-0288. Va. Dlr.

LEXUS 2014 GX 460

Travel/Camping Trailers CONSIGNMENTS WANTED! Let us clean, sell, & finance your RV. Snyders RV 499-8000.

Autos for Sale

HONDA 2020 ACCORD

LX. 4 dr, 4 cyl, auto, well equipped, 26k miles, exc cond, Honda warranty, 37 mpg. $24,900. 443-235-0304

Subscribe to The Virginian-Pilot today.

Call 757-446-9000 or go to PilotOnline.com

1 owner, all serviced, 4X4, 3rd row seating, like new, $29,900. Call 757-675-0288. Va. Dlr.

Fridays in The Pilot

Cockatoo, too.

TOYOTA 1994 T100

94,050 miles. $2800 Or Best Offer.

Call 757-437-0256

Wanted Automotive ABSOLUTELY ABLY ACQUIRING AUTOS All Makes & Models, Best Price Paid!!

FREE TOWING. 757-749-8035

Pick a pet in the CLASSIFIED MARKETPLACE.

AUTOS ACCEPTED-ANY YEAR Make or Model. Top Dollar, Fast, Free Towing. 757-737-2465, 252-232-9192

Fun & Games

Sudoku

CryptoQuip

Last week’s CryptoQuip answer

Device that was given to Adam to help him with soil maintenance in the Garden of Eden: A first-person aerator.

LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS

Religious Services For your installation’s religious service times visit www.flagshipnews.com⁄ base_information⁄ religious_services

8 The Flagship | www.flagshipnews.com | Section 3 | Thursday, April 28, 2022

I asked what kind of family Amina wanted. She said, ‘A family like yours.’ That’s when I knew I had to adopt her.

Denise, adopted 17-year-old Amina

L E A R N A B O U T A D O P T I N G A TE E N YOU CAN’T IMAGINE THE REWARD

ADOPTUSKIDS.ORG