Flagship 06.01.2023

Sailors and Marines man the rails as the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) transits the Hudson River during the Parade of Ships for Fleet Week New York 2023, May 24, 2023.

(PHOTO BY PETTY OFFICER 3RD CLASS ERIC MOSER, USS WASP)

The amphibious assault ship, USS Wasp (LHD 1), navigates through New York Harbor during Fleet Week New York’s parade of ships May 24, 2023. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST 1ST CLASS HORACIO G. IDROGO JR.)

Sailors and Marines render honors as the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) transits the Hudson River during the Parade of Ships for Fleet Week New York 2023, May 24, 2023. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS ERIC A. MOSER)

Sailors and Marines man the rails as the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) transits the Hudson River during the Parade of Ships for Fleet Week New York 2023, May 24, 2023. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS ERIC A. MOSER)

Explosive Ordnance Disposal 3rd Class Brandon Bowers, assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, explains the usage of robots to a group of children at Miller Field in New York, May 24, 2023. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS ELEXIA MORELOS)

Sea Hawk helicopter at Miller Field, in New York, May 24, 2023. (PHOTO BY PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS ELEXIA MORELOS, NAVY REGION MID-ATLANTIC)

The Royal Navy ocean survey vessel HMS Scott (H131) transits through the New York harbor during the Fleet Week New York Parade of ships May 24, 2023. (BY PETTY OFFICER 2ND CLASS ELEXIA MORELOS, NAVY REGION MID-ATLANTIC)

USS Truxtun returns from deployment

ByPettyOfficer2ndClass

NathanBeard

Carrier Strike Group 10

NORFOLK Va The Arleigh Burkeclassguided-missiledestroyerUSSTruxtun (DDG103)returnedtoitshomeportofNaval StationNorfolk,May 25,2023,following an eight-monthdeploymentwithCarrierStrike Group (CSG) 10, George H.W. Bush CSG, to the U.S. 5th Fleet and U.S. 6th Fleet areas of operation.

“Truxtun’s crew represents the absolute best of America, said Cmdr Adam Miller commanding officer of Truxtun. “They demonstratedexemplaryconductashorein foreignportsandsustainedsuperiorperformance operating at sea. From deterring illicit activity in the Red and Arabian Seas to sailing alongside our NATO Allies in the Mediterranean, our crew excelled at every missiontaskedtous.”

Following completion of a four-week composite training unit exercise Truxtun deployed in August 2022 alongside the

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W.Bush(CVN77),theArleighBurke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Farragut (DDG 99) and USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119),andtheTiconderoga-classguided-missilecruiserUSSLeyteGulf(CG55) TruxtunenteredU.S.5thFleetinDecember2022.WhileintheMiddleEast,Truxtun participated in Exercise AMAN, a series of multilateral naval exercises hosted by the PakistaniNavy,andInternationalMaritime

Exercise 2023, a U.S. Naval Forces Central Command(NAVCENT)hostednavaltrainingexercisethatwascombinedwiththeU.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa-led exercise CutlassExpress2023,whichinvolvedmore than 50 partner nations and international organizationsoperatingintheArabianGulf, Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, Indian Ocean,andEastAfricancoastalregions

In January 2023, Truxtun participated in exercise Juniper Oak 23-2, the largest bi-lateral U.S.-Israeli exercise in history. Led by U.S. Central Command and the Israeli Defense Force, Juniper Oak 23-2

was designed to enhance interoperability between the U.S. and Israeli militaries Juniper Oak 23-2 joined the long-standing “Juniper”seriesthattheU.S.andIsraelhave conductedformorethan20years

In April 2023, Truxtun operated off the coast of Sudan in support of Department of State’sevacuationefforts

Throughout the deployment, the crew conducted scheduled port visits to Split, Croatia; Souda Bay, Crete, Greece; Toulon, France; Aqaba, Jordan; Eilat and Haifa, Israel; and Duqm, Oman. Additionally the crew hosted key leaders including Rear Adm.MichaelSciretta,commander,Standing NATO Maritime Group 2, strengthening U.S.-partner relationships across the theaters “Truxtun is a warship ready for tasking, and that is possible thanks to the talent and dedicationofourcrew,”Millersaid.“Iamso proudofeveryoneofourSailorsandthankfulfortheworkthey’veinvestedtobringus homesafely.”

George H.W. Bush is the flagship of

CSG-10, George H.W. Bush CSG CSG-10 is comprised of George H.W. Bush, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 the Information Warfare Commander,andLeyteGulf

The ships of DESRON-26 completing deployment within CSG-10 are the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Nitze (DDG 94), Truxtun, and Delbert D. Black.

The squadrons of CVW-7 embarked aboard the George H.W. Bush are the “Sidewinders” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86 the “Jolly Rogers” of VFA-103 the “Knighthawks” of VFA-136, the “Pukin Dogs”ofVFA-143,the“Bluetails”ofCarrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, the “Patriots” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, andthe“Grandmasters”ofHelicopterMaritimeStrikeSquadron(HSM)46

FormoreinformationaboutUSSTruxtun (DDG 103) or U.S. 2nd Fleet, contact C2F_ PAO@navy.mil

NORFOLK(May25,2023) ElectronicsTechnician 3rd ClassTylerMahnke,assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyerUSSTruxtun (DDG 103),kisses hiswife upon returning to Naval Station Norfolkfollowing a nine-month deployment

NORFOLK(May25,2023) Lt John Founds,assigned to theArleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyerUSSTruxtun (DDG 103),playswith his daughteron the pierupon returning to Naval Station Norfolkfollowing a nine-month deploymentwith CarrierStrike Group (CSG) 10

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NORFOLK(May25,2023)TheArleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyerUSSTruxtun (DDG 103) returns to Naval Station Norfolkfollowing a nine-month deploymentwith CarrierStrike Group (CSG)

BySusanneGreene

Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) co-hosted its first Technology Showcase forcontractorsandciviliansfromMay10-11 with the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS)

The two-day event hosted more than 60 vendors and provided an opportunity for waterfront workers to see the most innovative technologies in their trades and for shipyard production management teams to collaborate with industry partners on discussing prospective solutions specific to NNSY

“Becoming the 21st century shipyard our Navy needs requires effective combination of efficient planning and execution, upgradedfacilities,andcutting-edgetechnology and equipment that can be smartly leveraged into our day-to-day work,” said Shipyard Commander Captain Dianna Wolfson at the event’s kickoff “The next two days offer an exciting glimpse into our future, with prospects of using more

advanced technology to meet our vision.”

Planning for the Technology Showcase started back in 2019 and culminated into a successful event at America’s Shipyard DanAdams ShipyardCommandInnovation Program Manager stated, “The Innovation Program leadership was focused on identifying and transitioning proven technologies into the shipyard that would help the command meet the mission of maintaining, modernizing, and repairing the Navy’s nuclear fleet in a more efficient manner.”

Vendor focus areas included: coatings andcorrosionprevention;energy environmental, health and safety; business technology and analytics; advanced additive manufacturing; training; and enhanced inspection systems

“This interaction is key for those doing the work to communicate their current challenges and stress the solutions offered by the vendors against their real world experiences,”statedThomasStaskin,Shipyard Business Process Consultant Lead.

“We feel these dialogues will guide the

vendors to focus their efforts in areas that willtrulymakeadifferencetoourshipyard inthefuture,aswellasidentifythosetechnologies that seem to be ready for implementation right now.

“The reality is that this gives us the chance to close the gap between what the government has available for us versus what the outside industry can offer,” said Jason Wills, Code 926 Shipyard Group Superintendent. “This is the first step in driving that to completion and we are very excited about it.”

Nick Buie Code 982 Shipyard Utilities Engineer attended with other members of histeamandplantovisitfutureTechnology Showcases at NNSY “It’s nice to be at the technology showcaseandengagewithvendorsthatarevery much on the front edge of shipbuilding technology,” said Buie “It’s refreshing to see the various perspectives on the products and services that are available to our industry.”

The vendors enjoyed engaging with NNSY employees and sharing the latest

shipbuilding technologies

“I spent the first day going vendor to vendor listening and taking notes of all the innovative technologies,” said Laura Herrin Code 900 Shipyard Program Manager for Process Improvement. “For someone who has been in the shipyard for over 35 years and has worked in multiple codes,Iwasexcitedtoseeallthenewtechnology that will help our workforce to do their jobs safer and faster.”

Herrin added, “Overall, I believe there was value added to this technology showcaseandaswitheverythingweshoulddoas NNSY it will continuously improve.

Note:Theinclusionofacontractor’spicture or logo in this article, or a contractor’s participation or attendance at the Showcase, does notconstituteadirectorimplicitendorsement by Norfolk Naval Shipyard, or the Government, of the contractor its views, products processes or services

Norfolk Naval Shipyard highlights employees chosen for the NAVSEA

NEXTGEN Leadership Program: Venita Scott and Colt Brinkman

ByKristiRBritt

Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) and its tenantlocationsrecentlysawtheselectionof sevenindividualsfortheNavalSeaSystems Command (NAVSEA) Next Generation of Leadership (NEXTGEN) Program, which offersparticipantsthechancetolearnabout leadership throughout several different initiativesforthenextyear

Thisenterprise-wideinitiativetakescivilian employees at a GS 7-11 level through a self-pacedblendedcourseapproachthrough classroom and online studies to build up their skills through assessment, experimental learning and individual development opportunities At the completion of the program, the participants will have the skills to prepare them for future managementrolesthroughoutNAVSEA

Congratulations to Inventory Management Specialist Colt Brinkman, Contract Specialist Brittany Tavassoli, Nuclear Engineering Technician Venita Scott, Quality Assurance Specialist David Leon, Fabric Worker Supervisor LaShonda Dunston, Naval Architect Technician Stacia Spath from NNSY, and Radioactive Material Controller Doug Mandell from Nuclear Regional Maintenance Depart-

ment (NRMD) Kings Bay. For the next few months, we will be highlighting these individuals in a NEXTGEN series, celebrating their achievements as they work through theprogram.

Interested in becoming a future participant of the NEXTGEN program? ApplicationswillbeaccepteduntilJune26at12p.m. forallinterestedcivilianemployees(GS7-11) For more information and to download an application, visit https://flankspeed.sharepoint-mil.us/sites/NAVSEA_10D5

Nuclear Engineering Technician Venita Scott is with NNSY’s Radiological Auditing andSurveillanceDepartment.Shebeganher leadershipjourneyafewyearsagowithher completion of the Defense Civilian Emerging Leaders Program (DCELP), NEXTGENbeinghersecondprogramonthepath towardsherfuturesuccesses.

“I wanted to be a change agent for the shipyard but I didn’t think I was in a positiontomakeanykindofimpact,”saidScott. “I felt small, too small to be recognized and valued. I needed to transform myself and I neededtostartbychangingtheimageIhad for myself So I looked into what programs wereavailableandapplied.

During her time in DCELP, Scott noted that she learned a lot about herself and

how to build relationships with others

The NEXTGEN offers further leadership development through reading exercises, coaching, mentoring, and job shadowing opportunities.

“I’m learning about the NAVSEA organization as a whole,” said Scott. “I never thought I would get to visit NAVSEA headquarters or engage with NAVSEA Commander Vice Admiral William Galinis or Executive Director Mrs Giao Phan but I did I never thought I could influence positivechangeinanorganizationthissize, but I will! My goal to be a change agent for theshipyardisstillmylastinggoalandwith these programs I’ve sharpened my skills Now I’m just awaiting the opportunity to makeapositiveimpact.

When asked what advice she would give others in her position, Scott shared, “don’t subscribe to leadership programs with expectationsofpromotions.Nothingisguaranteed.Instead,lookfortheseopportunities becauseyouarepassionateaboutyourfuture and your drive to bring positive change to thecommand.”

Colt Brinkman is an Inventory ManagementSpecialistatNNSYandappliedforthe NEXTGEN program to gain insight from high level educators, expanding his knowl-

edge and bringing back what he learns to benefittheshipyardandtheNavy

“This program encompasses all of NAVSEA to incorporate leadership traits andqualitiestohelpparticipantsunderstand whywedowhatwedoonadailybasis,”said Brinkman.“Beingabletolearndirectlyfrom NAVSEACommanderViceAdmiralWilliam Galinis and other figures really caught my attentiontowhatthisprogrambringstothe table Leaders are taking the time to share withustheiradviceonleadershipandit’san experiencethatI’mthankfultobepartof.”

Hecontinued,“Throughthisprogram,I’m hopingtogarnermoreleadershiptraitsthat I’dpreviouslacked.I’mlookingtopreparing myselfforthenextstepofmycareer aswell as preparing myself for the Journey Level Leadership (JLL) program that is the next step in NAVSEA’s offerings for leadership development.”

Brinkman’s advice to his fellow shipyarders looking to join programs like this in the future apply for whatever opportunitiescomeyourway.“Submityourpackages and shoot your shot,” he said. “Even if youdon’tthinkyou’llmakethecut,youmay be surprised by the outcome You are your biggest advocate for advancing yourself in yourcareer,takethetimetoapplyforwhateveryoucan.”

Hazel Gray Foundation accepts Veteran Affairs Grant for suicide prevention and awareness

ByHazelGrayFoundation

PublicAffairs

VIRGINIABEACH,Va (May24 2023)

TheHazelGrayFoundation(HGF)formally accepted Virginia Department of Veteran Services (DVS) grant funds to support veteransuicidepreventioneffortsthroughoutthecommonwealthMay20,2023.HGF applied for the grant aiming to provide a trauma-focused, treatment program to Virginia’s military service members as part of HGF’s mission to support expansion of mentalhealthcaretoveterans.

DesireeSmith,HGF’schiefexecutiveofficer, said the grant will be utilized to fund a pilottraumarecoveryprogramthatconsists of individual and group trauma therapy to a blended cohort of active duty personnel and veteran participants “This program is trauma specific,” said Smith, “which is often what is not addressed in traditional group therapy. The program is designed to address the core wounds versus the symptoms When unresolved trauma is treated, manyoftheseveredepressiveepisodesthat leadtosuicidalideationareminimized.”

Smith, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and certified trauma specialist is

also a Navy veteran and knows first-hand themanystrugglesthatveteransfacewhen dealingwithsustainedstressandtrauma

“This has been my dream since getting outoftheNavyin2008,”Smithexplained.“I struggledwithmanyaspectsofarduousduty and returning to life as a civilian. My goal has always been to create a bridge between both worlds with an innovative approach

thataddressesthegapsinmentalhealthcare forthemilitarypopulation.Irecognizedthe needforVirginia’smilitarytreatmentfacilitiesandVAhospitalstohavemoreresources for patients who present with suicidal ideation. Smith said the pilot program will useanexpandedandstructuredversionofa proventraumatreatmentcalledTheTrauma Model created by Dr Colin Ross, founder

oftheTraumaRecoveryInstituteinTexas.

Smith and Susan Powell, a LCSW who trained under the tutelage of Ross, developed and refined the pilot’s curriculum over three years of beta testing Smith and Powell worked together in community-based mental health before opening a trauma-specific, private practice and sister nonprofit HGFtoprovidemoreaccessto trauma-focused mental health services for themilitarypopulation.Powellservesonthe HGF board as Director of Clinical Mental Health and Supervision. Hazel Gray Foundationisanon-profitorganization Itsboard ofdirectorsiscomposedofindividualswith strong personal and professional ties to the nation’s military branches and are consideredexpertsinthefieldofclinicalandholistichealthcare

HGF will accept new clients for this pilot trauma program in June 2023 “This program is beneficial in that, HGFs clinicians and board members have strong militarytiesandapassiontoendveteransuicide in both the active duty and veteran populations,”sharedSmith.

For more information about HGF visit www.hazelgrayfoundation.org.

Scott iswith NorfolkNaval Shipyard’s (NNSY)

and Surveillance Department She began herleadership journeya few years agowith hercompletion ofthe Defense Civilian Emerging Leaders Program (DCELP),the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Next Generation ofLeadership (NEXTGEN) being her second program on the path towards herfuture successes.(COURTESYPHOTO)

Colt Brinkman is an InventoryManagement Specialist at NorfolkNaval Shipyard He applied forthe Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Next Generation ofLeadership (NEXTGEN) program to gain insight from high level educators,expanding his knowledge and bringing back what he learns to benefit the shipyard and the Navy (COURTESYPHOTO)

F.Meier,Commander,NavalAirForceAtlantic (CNAL),right,and Force MasterChiefJimmyW.HaileyIII,ofCNAL,presents the 2022 CNALSea SailoroftheYear award toAviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class SiritaWeaver,assigned to USSJohn C.Stennis (CVN 74),during the ceremony,May19 CNALis responsible forseven nuclear-powered aircraft carriers,54 aircraft squadrons,1,200 aircraft,and 52,000 officers enlisted,and civilian personnel

CNAL Announces Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year for 2022

ChiefPettyOfficerBrianBrooks

Commander Naval Air Force Atlantic VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Commander Naval Air Force Atlantic (CNAL) named the Fiscal Year 2022 Sea and Shore Sailors of the Year after a week of consideration, May 19

CNAL,RearAdm.JohnF.Meier,selected and named Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling)1stClassSiritaWeaver,assigned to the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), as the Sea Sailor of the Year and Naval Aircrewman (Helicopter) 1st Class Aaron D. Primm, assigned to Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 1, as the Shore Sailor of the Year Primm will now compete at the next stage of the Shore Sailor of the Year programattheU.S.FleetForceslevelwhere ifheisselectedtowin,hewillbeadvanced to the rank of chief petty officer

Weaver was addressed as “Chief” upon receiving her award from Meier With her selection as the Sea Sailor of the Year she has been meritoriously advanced to chief petty officer CNAL’s Force Master Chief Jimmy W. HaileyIIIcongratulatedthenomineesand reflectedonwhatmadethewinners,aswell as the other candidates, so special

“After spending the last five days with you all of you, I see what greatness truly is,” Hailey said. “Each and every one of you should be proud that you’re here, you should be proud of what you’ve accomplishednotjustthislastyearbutyourentire career that led you to this point.

Likewise, Meier commended the highly-qualified candidates as a group, and addressed his high expectations for all of them.

“Everybody involved in our Sailor of the Year program, after a week of interacting

with these amazing Sailors, knows there is no easy decision in selecting only one of them to be the CNAL Sailor of the Year,” Meier said. “I fully expect every one of these outstanding Sailors to be on the next Chief’s list. Weaver and Primm, along with 10 other Sailor of the Year finalists, spent the week participating in events centered on naval history and heritage, building camaraderie,mentorship,andindividualboardstesting their military knowledge as part of the CNAL Sailor of the Year program.

“The Sailor of the Year program is a significant investment in recognizing our Sailors and allows us to acknowledge their outstanding bodies of work, Meier added. “It is one of the most exciting parts of my job. Once you meet these Sailors, you immediately get a strong sense of how outstanding every one of them is, and how competitive this group is as a whole It

really does make me feel good about the future of our service.”

SailoroftheYearisatime-honoredtradition introduced in 1972 by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and MasterChiefPettyOfficeroftheNavyJohn Whittet.Thisannualcompetitionisheldto recognizesuperiorperformanceofindividualSailors,whobestexemplifytheidealsof professional Sailors throughout the fleet.

CNAL is responsible for seven nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 54 aircraft squadrons 1,200 aircraft and 52,000 officers enlisted and civilian personnel based on the East Coast of the United States It provides combat ready, sustainable naval air forces with the right personnel, properly trained and equipped, with a focus on readiness,operationalexcellence,interoperability, safety, and efficient resourcing

Navy Medicine announces

FY22 Sailor of the Year

ByEdGulick

U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery

Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Travis Hunter from Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Rota, Spain, was announced as Navy Medicine’s 2022 Sailor oftheYear(SOY),onMay18 2023

Hunterreceivedtherecognitionataceremony hosted by U.S. Navy Bureau of MedicineandSurgery(BUMED)leadershipatthe DefenseHealthHeadquarters.

Rear Adm. Darin K. Via, Acting Surgeon GeneraloftheNavyandForceMasterChief

Michael J. Roberts, Navy Medicine Force Master Chief and Director of the Hospital Corpskickedofftheceremonyasthenominees awaited the announcement of this year’sselectee

“Successisnotonlymeasuredbypersonal accomplishments, but by what we do to

nurture and strengthen the talents of those you lead, said Roberts “You teach how to build a team committed to accomplishing themission.”

Roberts challenged each Sailor to go back to their command to see how they can continue to shape our medical readiness, preparepersonnel andincreasereadiness

“Youarethe best of the 1,700Sailorswho couldbestandingheretoday, saidVia.The admiralthenturnedtothecommandmaster chiefsintheaudienceandsaid,“Theywould notbestandingherewithoutyou.”

Hunter,anativeofAmityville,NewYork, washumbledwhentheannouncementwas made “It’sanunrealfeeling.Iwouldn’tbehere, first and foremost if it wasn’t for God and my strong leadership relying on me and dependingonme,”saidHunter Hewenton tothankhispeersandjuniorSailors Overall,

hesaid,“IamecstaticbecauseIhaveastrong support system in the Navy and in my wife whoismybackbone,myultimatesupporter, andmycheerleader.”

As part of the SOY program, Hunter will be meritoriously promoted to the rank of chiefpettyofficerlaterthisyear

The remaining active-duty nominees were Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Aisha Thomas assigned to Naval Postgraduate Dental School in Bethesda, Maryland; Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Justin Enriquez assigned to Navy Readiness and Training Unit Sasebo, Japan and Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Semo Ayers assigned to Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Falls Church, Virginia. Each of the nominees received a Navy Marine Corps CommendationMedalsignedbyRearAdmiralVia.

The“SailoroftheYear isatime-honored traditionintroducedbyChiefofNavalOper-

ations, Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet in 1972 This annual competition is held to recognize the superior performance of individualSailors,whoexceedinpersonifyingtheidealsoftheNavyCoreValues

The Navy’s Hospital Corps is comprised of over 27,000 active duty and reserve Navy personnel.HospitalcorpsmendeployalongsidetheirfellowSailorsandMarinesworldwide, in both wartime and peacetime The rating is the largest, most professionally diverseandhighlydecoratedenlistedcorps intheNavy

Navy Medicine represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilianhealthcareprofessionals provides enduring expeditionary medical supportto thewarfighteron,below andabovethesea, andashore

Cool Conversation: Global experts meet at Naval Academy to talk sea ice, icebergs

ByLt Cmdr.CaitlinFine

Navy Reservist, Office Of Naval Research

Scientists and polar icebreaker operators from four countries recently convened at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland,todiscusscollaborationon international research projects and share information about sea ice and icebergs Norway,Denmark,Canada and the U.S. participated in fruitful discussionsandfutureresearchplanning at the International Cooperative Engagement Program for Polar Research (ICE-PPR) International WorkshopforSeaIceandIcebergs

ICE-PPR is a memorandum of understanding between the defense departments of seven countries theU.S.,Canada,Denmark,Sweden, Norway Finland and New Zealand that allows for joint research and information sharing between the countries. Working groups within ICE-PPR focus on different topics, including the Environment, Platforms, Human Performance and SituationalAwareness.

ChiefofNavalResearchRearAdm.

Lorin Selby is the U.S. principal for ICE-PPR until next month, when he will retire from the Navy and be relieved by Rear Adm. Kurt Rothenhaus.

The workshop attendees focused on three areas: science and technology researchers who study data and create new algorithms or sensors; thecentersthatproduceiceanalysis productsformariners;andtheoperatorsthemselves personnelfromthe U.S. and Canadian Navies and Coast Guards who have operated ships in polar regions Operators were able to learn about the vast array of data available, while researchers learned about the constraints of operating in a polar shipboard environment where internet may not be readily available, or data may arrive too late or not be of high-enough resolution tobeuseful

“Iloveseeingfutureprojectsariseorganically when these different groups can get together and learn from one another,” said John Woods, director of the Office of Naval

Research’s International Engagement Office “We are able to leverage strengths and experiences from different countries thathavebeenoperatinginpolarregionsfor decades Our Naval Reservists support this

effort and were instrumental

FromNavy.mil

OSLO, Norway U.S. Navy’s newest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78),arrivedinOslo,Norway,forascheduled portvisit,May24

This port visit is the capital ship’s first stopwhiledeployedtotheU.S.NavalForces Europe (NAVEUR) area of operations and provides an opportunity to enhance U.S.-Norway partnership, marking the first time a U.S. aircraft carrier has visited Norwayin65years

During his visit to the ship Monday, Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram said, “This is Norway’s security It is a clear expression of the security guarantees we have through NATO, not least the close cooperation and partnership we have with theUnitedStates.”

Priortoarriving,theGeraldR.FordStrike Group(GRFCSG)integratedHisNorwegian Majesty’s Ship (HNoMS) Roald Amundsen (F311) as the GRFCSG Surface Warfare Commander buildingcollectiveoperational experienceat-seaandshowcasingapowerfuldisplayoftheU.S.NavyandRoyalNorwegianNavy’sinteroperability.

TheRoyalNorwegianNavyroutinelyintegrates with U.S. Carrier Strike Groups In late2021-2022,theHNoMSFridtjofNansen (F310)conductedacooperativedeployment with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike GrouptotheNAVEURareaofoperationsin supportofmaritimesecurityandstabilityin internationalwaters.

“Norway is a strategic partner in the continued efforts to maintain a secure and stableArcticandNorthAtlanticregionthat benefits global order,” said Rear Adm. Erik J.Eslich,Commander,CarrierStrikeGroup 12 “WearecommittedtoourNATOAllyand fostering our strong relationship built on a foundation of shared values, experiences, andvision.”

DuringthevisittoOslo theshipwillhost local officials and key leaders for a receptiontohonor theU.S.-Norwayrelationship. Additionally,Sailorswillexperiencetherich heritage of Oslo through community relationseventsandhavetheopportunitytovisit popular cultural and historical landmarks aroundthecity

“It is an honor joy, and thrill to visit Oslo and show our cherished partner the Navy’s newest class of aircraft carriers,” said Capt. RickBurgess,GeraldR.Ford’scommanding officer.“Thecrewisbeyondexcitedforthis opportunitytoserveonthefirstU.S.aircraft carriertomakethishistoricvisittoNorway in65years.”

Gerald R. Ford deployed from Norfolk, Virginia on May 2 and has been conducting joint and combined training exercises and

operationstohelpreducemaritimesecurity risksassociatedwithincreasedactivityinthe high north. The Gerald R. Ford CSG sailed along-side NATO’s Standing NATO MaritimeGroupOneforseveraldayssinceNATO alliesandpartnerstakeeveryopportunityto train together to refine tactics, techniques, andprocedurestoincreaseinteroperability.

Gerald R. Ford is the U.S. Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier As the first-in-classshipofFord-classaircraftcarriers CVN 78 represents a generational leap in the U.S. Navy’s capacity to project power onaglobalscale Ford-classaircraftcarriers introduce 23 new technologies, including Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, Advanced Arresting Gear and Advanced WeaponsElevators.Thenewsystemsincorporated onto Ford-class ships are designed todelivergreaterlethality,survivabilityand joint interoperability with a 20% smaller crewthanaNimitz-classcarrier pavingthe

wayforwardfornavalaviation

The Gerald R Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is conducting a scheduled deployment in U.S. Naval Forces EuropeAfrica/U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations, demonstratingthecommitmentandpower projection capability of the Navy’s globally deployed force The GRFCSG provides an inherently flexible naval force capable of deploying across combatant commands to meet emerging missions, deter potential adversaries reassure allies and partners enhancesecurityandguaranteethefreeflow of global commerce In total, the GRFCSG is deployed with more than 6,000 Sailors across all platforms ready to respond globallytocombatantcommandertasking

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group consists of Carrier Strike Group 12, Carrier Air Wing 8, Destroyer Squadron 2, USS Normandy(CG60),USSMcFaul(DDG74), USS Ramage (DDG 61) and USS Thomas

Hudner(DDG116).

HeadquarteredinNaples Italy U.S.Naval ForcesEurope-Africa/U.S.SixthFleetoperates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command(AFRICOM)areasofresponsibility.U.S.SixthFleetispermanentlyassigned toNAVEUR-NAVAF,andemploysmaritime forcesthroughthefullspectrumofjointand navaloperations.Ourpersistentpresencein Europe is in accordance with our international commitments and agreements and is necessarytoreassureourAlliesandPartners ofourcommitmenttocollectivedefense

For more information about the USS GeraldR.Ford(CVN78),visithttps://www airlant.usff.navy.mil/cvn78/ and follow along on Facebook: @USSGeraldRFord, Instagram: @cvn78_grford, Twitter: @ Warship_78,DVIDSwww.dvids.net/CVN78 and LinkedIn at USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78).

Rota Jewish community welcomes rabbis for visit RabbiAdam Raskin joined retired NavyCapt. Rabbi Irving Elson on a recentweeklongvisit to Naval Station Rota Spain as part ofthe “Scholarin Residence Program”which brings rabbis to overseas communities. PageB3

Sailors and Marines tour NFL Studio during Los Angeles Fleet Week

ByPettyOfficer1stClass

BenjaminLewis

Navy Region Southwest

Sailors and Marines toured the NFL RedZone Studio in Inglewood, California, during Los Angeles Fleet Week (LAFW), May 24, 20223

The Sailors, assigned to Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Princeton(CG-59)andLittoralCombatShipUSS Cincinnati(LCS20),andMarines,assigned toIndiaBattery,3rdBattalion,11thMarines, 1stMarineDivision,touredthestudiocourtesy of the USO.

“It’s really exciting for me to be able to invite people in the office and show the amazingworkthat’sdonehere,”saidTaylor Davis, the studio’s Coordinator, Planning & Culture. “It’s an office full of really great people and we love any opportunity to sharethatandshareourloveforthegame,”

Davis led the tour, taking Sailors and Marines behind the scenes during a live taping of the NFL’s flagship show, Total Access The Service Members also got to see all the network’s shooting sets and had a one-on-one with show producers

“We talk a lot about how people want to be famous on screen but there’s so much morethatgoesintomakingaTVshow, said Princeton’sCommandMasterChiefRegita Perry “I liked seeing behind the scenes, especially the show’s graphics.”

Sailors and Marines also met network hosts, MJ Acosta-Ruiz and Mike Yam, and participatedinalivetapingofTotalAccess. Perry has been watching Acosta on NFL Network for about the past two years and said her highlight of the tour was getting to meet her

“It’s good to see her [Acosta] on a male dominated show,” said Perry “Being a female on their flagship show, at the time she became one of the main anchors, there were no others.”

LAFW is an opportunity for the American public to meet their Navy Marine Corps and Coast Guard teams and experience America’s sea services During fleet week,servicemembersparticipateinvarious community service events, showcase capabilities and equipment to the community,andenjoythehospitalityofLosAngeles and its surrounding areas

LOSANGELES (May24 2023)TaylorDavis,center NFLRedZone Studio Coordinator Planning & Culture,gives a studio tourto Sailors and Marines during LosAngeles FleetWeek(LAFW), May24,2023.ase capabilities and equipment to the community,and enjoythe hospitalityof LosAngeles and its surrounding areas.

Pearl Harbor Battle of Midway legacy continues

ByAnaMaring

Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility

Eighty-one years ago this week

Sailorsandciviliansturnedthetideof the War in the Pacific The shipyard each of us call home today played a pivotal role ensuring our Pacific Fleet was ready to surprise the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) at the Battle of Midway A couple weeks before the carrier USS Yorktown (CV-5) would arriveatPearlHarborNavalShipyard Navycryptologists,linguists andintelligence personnel broke IJN’s code in thebasementofourhistoricBuilding1 atwhatwasthencalledStationHYPO TheNōKa‘Oi(best)workofthisteam who were forerunners of modern information warriors gave the Navy critical intelligence to secure its first major naval victory against Japan at theBattleofMidwayinWorldWarII.

On May 28, 1942, a war torn and battledamagedYorktownfloatedinto the very same Dry Dock #1 where USS Hawaii (SSN 776) now sits A three-monthrepairestimatefromthe shipyard was announced. However, intelligence analysts from Station HYPO had convinced Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz that the IJN would strike Midway Island June 4, 1942 resulting in a near impossible repair timeline to return Yorktown to the Fleet three days! This is when our NōKa‘Oilegacywascreated.

With water still draining from the dry dock, our civilian workforce wasted no time getting the ship back into fighting shape More than 1,400 tradesmen would work around the clock for 72 hours to get the job done Even our island community contributed with a series of rolling blackouts throughout O’ahu to support the vast electricity needed for the enormous welding effort. Then on the morning ofMay30,withshipyardworkersstill on board finalizing repairs Yorktown steamedoutofthePearlHarborchannel on a course straight to the battleground of one of the most decisive victoriesinhistory

In 1942, ahead of the Battle of Midway, our workforce saw the unprecedented challenge of Yorktown and met it with Nō Ka ‘Oi work and effort. Eighty-one years later the legacy continues of repairing our fleet’s force on time every time Just last week, USS Michael Murphy completed her maintenance period threedaysearly!

PacificFleet,themostcombatready navalforceontheplanet,issupported by the vital maintenance done at PHNSY & IMF. Today’s workforce continues the Nō Ka ‘Oi spirit set by those who have gone before us those who did not back down did not give up, and gave their best. Our challenges may be different, but our dedication remains the same. They were NōKa‘Oi,weareNōKa‘Oi!

ENC Tech Bridge hosts NavalX director at FRCE

ByHeatherWilburn

Fleet Readiness Center East

MARINECORPSAIRSTATIONCHERRY

POINT, N.C. Innovation, connection and speeding solutions to the warfighter were ontheagendaastheEasternNorthCarolina

(ENC)TechBridgeatFleetReadinessCenter East(FRCE)hostedasitevisitbytheNavalX

DirectorMay16

Capt. Casey Plew leads NavalX in its administrationoftheNavy’s18TechBridges

The visit, his first to the ENC Tech Bridge, provided Plew and other guests the opportunity to learn more about the ENC Tech Bridge’slocalinitiativesandtourFRCEfacilities to see firsthand how emerging technologiescanmakemilitarymaintenance,repair and overhaul operations more effective and efficient.

“NavalX Tech Bridges across the country are the key to connecting the Navy and Marine Corps to strategic partners throughout the U.S. and other parts of the world,” Plew said “I was eager to learn more about theworktheENCTechBridgeisdoinglocally to define naval problems and identify the right technology prototypes for intentional, innovativeproductdevelopment,integration anddelivery.”

Stops on the tour included a look at programstesting radiofrequencyidentification tags for tracking small assets like tools, and autonomous parts-handling forklifts and electric to move items without needing a driver. Participants also had the opportunity to explore the Innovation Lab, a stateof-the-artadditivemanufacturinglaboratory createdandmaintainedbytheFleetSupport Team’sAdvancedTechnologyandInnovation Team at FRCE, and the FABLAB, a mobile makerspacethatsupportsSTEMoutreachat schoolsandyoutheventsintheeasternNorth Carolinaregion.

ENCTechBridgeDirectorJamaineClemmons said these tour highlights reflect key conceptsthatrelatetoboththeTechBridge’s missionandthefuturesuccessofFRCE.

“Providing an inside look on how small businesses and an innovative environment and makerspace are leveraged to help solve challengingissues,andhowSTEMoutreach events will help develop the future innovators of tomorrow, are extremely important fortheTechBridgeecosystemtounderstand as it is key to the future of FRC East,” Clemmonssaid.“MygoalastheENCTechBridge director is to identify and source problems and then, most importantly, identify opportunities and partnerships that can lead to the development, maturation and ultimate transition of technologies that will make a difference.”

TheENCTechBridgeworkstobridgethe

explains challenges faced byFRCE’sV-22 production line during a May16 tourofthe depot bya group including NavalXDirectorCapt.CaseyPlew,center and Eastern North Carolina (ENC)Tech Bridge DirectorJamaine Clemmons.

gap between the Navy and nontraditional partnerslikesmallbusinesses,academiaand nonprofits by build an ecosystem of innovation that support the Navy and Marine Corps Local Tech Bridge efforts focus on several areas of consideration, including manufacturing and repair technologies; advanced manufacturing; big data, data analytics and visualization; technical insertion; augmented and mixed reality; automation and robotics; and soft and wicked problem solving The ENC Tech Bridge operates in conjunction with a partnership between Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE)andCravenCounty,andthecontinuedcommitmentfromallinvolvedwillhelp drive positive results Clemmons said.

“As we continue to mature and develop our ecosystem, it is imperative that we have strong collaborations and partnerships,” he added. “The relationship thus far between the ENC Tech Bridge, FRC East and Craven Countyhasbeengreat!”

As part of the NavalX network, 18 Tech Bridges aim to make connections between the Navy and emerging entities like startups small businesses academia, nonprofits and private capital that aren’t traditionally part of the Navy’s development and acquisition process. The Tech Bridge framework allows the Navy to collaborate with nontraditional partners and accelerate the innovation timeline in ways that traditional

acquisition methods do not This structure eases the collaboration process and allows theNavytoleveragethespeedandefficiency improvementsthesenontraditionalpartners have experienced in recent years, ultimately putting assets in the hands of the nation’s warfighters significantly faster at a more economicalrate

“ThepartnershipstheENCTechBridgeis forgingwithsmallbusinessesthatownleading-edge technologies is absolutely essential to achieving our goal of giving Marines and Sailors every advantage possible,” Plew explained. “It is incredible to see what can happen when the Navy and Marine Corps teams partner with local and regional economic development organizations, small and non-traditional businesses and likeminded venture capitalists and entrepreneurs TheENCTechBridgehasestablished itself as a lead driver growing the development of technologies in the ENC region. It’s reallyexciting.” FRCE is North Carolina’s largest maintenance,repair,overhaulandtechnicalservices provider withmorethan4,000civilian,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, FleetReadinessCenters.

Wreck site identified as World War Two destroyer USS Mannert L. Abele (DD 733)

ByPettyOfficer1stClassAbigayleLutz

Naval History and Heritage Command

WASHINGTON NAVY YARD Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) confirmedtheidentityofawrecksitelocated inJapanesewatersasUSSMannertL.Abele (DD 733) May 25

An Allen M. Sumner-class destroyer, the shipwasthefirstU.S.warshipsunkbyaJapaneseSuicideRocketBombApril12th,1945

NHHC’sUnderwaterArchaeologyBranch (UAB) used information provided by Tim Taylor,anoceanexplorerandCEOofTiburon Subsea, and Taylor’s “Lost 52 Project team toconfirmtheidentityofMannertL.Abele. “MannertL.Abeleisthefinalrestingplace for 84 American Sailors who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their country,” said NHHC Director Samuel J. Cox, U.S. Navy rear admiral (retired). “My deepest thanks and congratulations to Tim Taylor and his team for discovering this wreck site Its discovery allows some closure to the families of those lost, and provides us all another opportunity to remember and honor them.”

OnApril12th,1945,MannertL.Abelewas operating 75 miles off the northern coast of Okinawa when enemy aircraft appeared on radar Mannert L. Abele engaged with, and damaged multiple enemy aircraft, until eventually an aircraft managed to crash abreastoftheafterfireroomonthestarboard side, penetrating the after-engine room. A minutelater,theshipwashitatthewaterline by a Yokosuka MXY-7 Ohka (Cherry Blossom)rocket-poweredhuman-guidedbomb, andtheresultingexplosioncausedtheship’s bow and stern to buckle rapidly.

Mannert L. Abele was the first of three radar picket ships hit and the first U.S. Navy vessel sunk by the human-guided kamikaze bomb.

The wreck of Mannert L. Abele is a U.S. sunken military craft protected by U.S. law and under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Navy While non-intrusive activities,suchasremotesensingdocumentation,onU.S.Navysunkenmilitarycraftare allowed, any activity that may result in the disturbance of a sunken military craft must becoordinatedwithNHHCand,ifappropriate, authorized through a relevant permit-

ting program. Most importantly, the wreck represents the final resting place of Sailors that gave their life in defense of the nation and should be respected by all parties as a war grave.

For more information on Mannert L. Abele, please visit https://www.history. navy.mil/content/history/nhhc/research/ histories/ship-histories/danfs/m/mannertl-abele.html NHHC located at the Washington Navy Yard is responsible for preserving analyzing anddisseminatingU.S.navalhistoryand heritage It provides the knowledge foundation for the Navy by maintaining historically relevant resources and products that reflect the Navy’s unique and enduring contributions through our nation’s history and supports the fleet by assisting with and delivering professional research, analysis and interpretive services NHHC comprises many activities including the Navy Department Library the Navy Operational Archives, the Navy art and artifact collections, underwater archeology, Navy histories, 10 museums, USS Constitution repairfacility,andthehistoricshipNautilus

Q: Whattypesoffamily housingareavailable?

A: There are three types of housing available to families:

Public/PrivateVenture(PPV) Housing is also referred to as privatized housing in the Navy The Navy partnered with different private management companies to provide housing to Service Members. These companies are responsible forthe construction, renovation,maintenance and day-to-day management ofthe housing PPVhousing may be located on oroffgovernment property and in most cases will be formermilitary housing GovernmentOwned (also known as Military Housing orNavy Managed Housing is what was formerly called on-base housing While only available in limited quantities CONUS,Government Owned Housing is still widely available OCONUS. CommunityHousing is any housing that a Service Member may choose that is not PPVor government operated This is housing outside ofthe base that is privately owned and operated

NAVY HOUSING Norfolk: 757.445.2832

JEBLCFS: 757.462.2792

Oceana/DamNeck: 757.433.3268 Yorktown: 757.847.7806

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

FUNCTIONSAND/OR SERVICESFFSCPROVIDES:

ClinicalCounseling – Individual, Couplesand ChildCounseling

Personal Financial Management

Information & Referral

Family EmploymentAssistance

TransitionAssistance

FamilyAdvocacy Program

Deployment and Mobilization Support

Ombudsman Support

RelocationAssistance

Parenting Programs

Stress andAngerManagement

Command Support

Crisis Support

Suicide Prevention

SAPR Support

NavalXDirectorCapt.CaseyPlew,center discusses the use ofadditive manufacturing in naval sustainment operations during a May16 tourof the Fleet SupportTeam at Fleet Readiness CenterEast’s Innovation Lab.The Eastern North Carolina (ENC)Tech Bridge hosted thevisit to provide Plewand otherguests the opportunityto learn more about theTech Bridge’s local initiatives and see howemerging technologies can make military maintenance,repairand overhaul operations more effective and efficient (PHOTOSBYHEATHERWILBURN,FLEETREADINESSCENTEREAST)

Chris Plott right aV-22 production support engineerat Fleet Readiness CenterEast (FRCE),

Rota Jewish community welcomes rabbis for weeklong visit

ByCourtneyPollock

Naval Station Rota, Spain

Rabbi Adam Raskin joined retired Navy Capt. Rabbi Irving Elson on a recent weeklong visit to Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain,May1-6,2023 Thevisitwaspartofa trial of the “Scholar in Residence Program” which brings rabbis to overseas communities, re-energizing Jewish communities and deepening their faith. Throughout the week,therabbishostedmultipleeventsand servicesincludinganamingceremony,Shabbat,coffeewiththeRabbis,andacommunity-wide“JewsinSpain seminar

Elson serves as the director of Jewish Welfare Board (JWB) Jewish Chaplain Council whose mission is “supporting diverse Jewish communities and building Jewish identity.” This is not his first time in Rota;hebroughttheTorahtotheRotaJewish CommunityduringavisitinJuly2019

“One of the things that we feel is very important is that even smaller Jewish communities such as the one in Rota should get to know, get to hear, and get to learnandbepartofsomereallygreatJewish scholars,”explainedElson.“WhenIthought

aboutthisprogram,Ithoughtitwastimefor Rota to get a really great rabbi to come and spendsomedayswiththecommunity.”

ElsonimmediatelythoughtofRaskin

“He is a great teacher,” said Elson when meetingwiththeJewishcommunityforthe first time during this visit. “I think you’re going to learn a lot from him over the next couple of days and I hope you just enjoy havinghimasyourrabbi.”

TheRotaJewishCommunity-underthe leadership of lay leader Amanda Gipson is a tight-knit group or people who support each other in the growth of their faith. However, without a rabbi, there are gaps withinthecommunity

“This rabbinical visit was really important for me as the lay leader because Rabbis Irv and Adam were able to lead a ceremony that only a rabbi would normally lead,” she said,referencingKriyatHashem,ornaming ceremony

On the evening of May 2, members gathered for Kriyat Hashem and to celebrate the seven children within their community receivingtheirHebrewname.

Raskin described its importance to the children by telling them the story of how

their ancestors had been in Egypt for over 200 years and the way they remembered they were Jewish was by their Hebrew name. That’s a really powerful idea right? he said. “You guys are far away from places that you are from and sometimes it might be hard remember…but always remember your Hebrew name, where you came from, andwhoyouare.” He then described how each Hebrew nameastorywaslinkingthemtotheirancestors andinsomecases familymembers before calling up the first child to receive theirname Aftereachpresentationofname thefamilieswereinvitedtoexplainitssignificance. For Gipson, this event was the best part ofthevisit

“All the families are so involved in the community,andaslayleaders,Deborahand Ifeellikethekidsareouradoptedniecesand nephews so for us to be part of this kind of ceremonyissupermeaningful,”saidGipson “It also helped strengthen the community becausenowmanyfamilieshavesharedone singleeventthattiesthemforlife.”

Throughout the week, the community

gathered multiple times to learn, socialize anddeepentheirfaithtogether.

Raskintookadvantageoftheinstallation’s locationontheIberianPeninsulatoprovide an educational lunchtime seminar on Jews inSpain Hedelveddeeperintohistory,using famousandlesserknownJews,whileweaving an engaging dialogue on their influence and position within Spain’s history The insightfuldialogueendedwithquestionsand answersonanythingwiththerabbis

Ultimately, the intent of the visit by Elson tore-energizeanddeepenfaithwasachieved with the insightful and thoughtful discussionsandservicesthatheandRaskinled “WehereinRotahadthegreatfortuneto be the trial program, said Gipson, “and it wasagreatsuccess!”

As the “Gateway to the Mediterranean,” NAVSTA Rota provides U.S, NATO and allied forces a strategic hub for operations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. NAVSTA Rota is a force multiplier capable of promptly deploying and supporting combat-ready forces through land, air and sea,enablingwarfightersandtheirfamilies, sustainingthefleetandfosteringtheU.S.and Spanishpartnership

BU NROTC alums serve together 29 years later in the Horn of Africa

StoryByLt.j.g VictoriaPiccoli

Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Valerie Jackson, classof1994,andU.S.NavyCapt.SuzanneKrauss, class of 1995, serve together again in Djibouti, Africa, six thousand miles from where they first metatBostonUniversity,Massachusetts. BothBUNavyReserveOfficersTrainingCorps classmates now hold senior military leadership positionsandreconnectedwhiledeployedtothe only permanent U.S. installation in Africa, Camp Lemonnier,Djibouti

Jackson,anativeNewEnglanderwhoreceived herBachelor’sdegreeinhistoryfromBU,servesas deputy commanding general of Combined Joint TaskForce HornofAfrica,whosemissionisto conduct operations in the United States Africa Commandregiontopromotesecurityandstability,dissuadeconflict,andprotectU.S.interests.

When Jackson, first found out that she would work professionally with Krauss again she said, “I thought, ‘what are the chances?’ But, I also knew that Camp Lemonnier would be in good hands with Capt. Krauss It is gratifying to see how the early foundation laid at BU served us both so well. It’s an honor to serve with a BUNROTC alum!”

Camp Lemonnier provides air, port, and personnel support to 31 tenant commands, like CJTF-HOA, who operate forward throughout theregion.

Krauss, a third-generation military officer who received her Bachelor’s degree in InternationalRelationsfromBU tookcommandofCamp Lemonnier Djibouti onApril18 2023

“BUwasaplacewhereIcouldlearnandthrive as an individual and as part of a larger university community,” said Krauss “The BUNROTC unit developed and trained us toward the high ideals ofthenavalservice.”

For Krauss and Jackson, the early bonds built asmidshipmenfromlongrunsalongtheCharles RiverEsplanadeinBostontobothcommissioning ontheUSSConstitutionremainedstrongoverthe yearsevenastheyreunitedasseniormilitaryleadersintheHornofAfrica.

“Twenty-nine years goes by in a flash and you pick up right where you left off,” said Krauss. “Thebondsyoucreatethroughservicearestrong and lifelong.”

ABOVE: CAMPLEMONNIER Djibouti (April 18 2023) U.S.Marine Corps Brig Gen.ValerieJackson,left and U.S.NavyCapt.Suzanne Krauss,right pose after Camp Lemonnier Djibouti’s change ofcommand,April 18 Camp Lemonnier serves as an expeditionarybase forU.S.militaryforces providing support to ships,aircraft,and personnel that ensure securitythroughout Europe,Africa,and SouthwestAsia.CLDJ enables maritime and combat operations in the Horn of Africa,while fostering positive U.S.-Africa relations.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYMASS COMMUNICATIONSPECIALIST1STCLASSMARIAA.OLVERATRISTÁN)

LEFT: CAMPLEMONNIER Djibouti (May22 2023) U.S.Marine Corps Brig Gen. ValerieJackson,left and U.S.NavyCapt.Suzanne Krauss,right sign and hold a Boston Universityflag forCamp Lemonnier’sWardroom,May22 (U.S.NAVY PHOTOPROVIDEDBYCMDR SEANLOCKE)

(JWB)Jewish

Lt. Louie — one Asian American’s story

ByEmilySwedlund Naval Medical Research

Command

GROTON, Conn. Lt Jennifer FungMing Louie deputy department head of Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory’s(NSMRL)’sWarfighterPerformance Department, is on the constant pursuit of growth. The Navy provided her with the perfectopportunitytochallengeherself

Louie originally hails from Middletown, NewJersey,whereherparentsmovedfrom NewYorkCityshortlyaftershewasborn.A second-generationChineseAmerican,with ancestralrootsinToisan,China,shegrewup asoneofonlyfourAsian-Americanstudents fromelementarythroughhighschool,which heavilyinfluencedheridentity

As she continued her education (achievingabachelor’sfromCollegeofNewJersey, a Master of Science from Villanova, and eventually a PhD from the University of Central Florida), she encountered more diverse ethnic and cultural communities whichbroadenedherideasonwhatitmeant tobeAsianandAmerican

“In college, I became a lot more comfortable with who I am, and my identity as a Chinese-American and Asian-American woman. My early struggles with trying to prove my self-worth diminished, and I learnednottorelyasmuchonexternalvalidation.”

It was during this period of growth that Louie started work on breaking the stereotype of Asian-American women, who are often expected to be shy or submissive. She learned to hang glide, she ran marathons, andevenlearnedhowtobreathefire.

Searching for opportunities to challenge perceptions is part of what inspired Louie to join the Navy She yearned for a career that would challenge her physically and mentally andtheNavywasthatperfectfit.

“As an Asian-American woman in Navy leadership,Iamrelativelyunique,andIlove

that.Butusually,someoneisn’tgoingtowant to be the only diverse member of a team. If there is a population of varied ethnicities and races, people will find comfort knowingthey’renotgoingtobealone whichwill inturncreateamoreinvitingculture.”

Louie emphasizes that it’s important to honor diversity and inclusion in the Navy To those who may say that emphasizing diversity means emphasizing “otherness,” Louiepointsoutthatuntilwe’reallonequal footing,it’simportanttocelebrateourdifferences, and that we’ve still got a lot of growingtodo.

“I am still sometimes viewed as a representative for all East Asian-American women, and that can be exhausting It’s important to be aware of others’ cultural identities, but realize that at the end of the day,yourbeliefsarestillassumptions,andto really understand a person, no matter their raceorethnicity,youmustgettoknowthem onanindividuallevel.”

Louie is a second-generation Chinese American whoisproudofherheritageand her story but wants to emphasize there is no“one”AsianAmericanPacificIslander(s) (AAPI)story.

“AAPI is an evolving term, and as it evolves,itcapturesoursociety’sunderstandingofwhatitmeanstobeAAPI.”

The DOD pays tribute to the generations of AAPI who have enriched our Nation’s history through their countless contributions vibrant cultures and rich heritage AAPIencompassadiversegroupofcultures ethnicities, and languages They include those Americans who trace their ancestry totheAsiancontinentandthemanyPacific Islandregions NSMRL, part of the Naval Medical Research & Development enterprise and based out of Groton, Connecticut sustains the readiness and superiority of undersea warfighters through innovative health and performanceresearch.

GROTON,Conn.(May24,2023) Lt JenniferLouie,deputydepartment head ofNaval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory’s (NSMRL’s)WarfighterPerformance Department, in heroffice NSMRL part ofthe Naval Medical Research & Development enterprise and based out ofGroton,Connecticut sustains the readiness and superiorityofundersea warfighters through innovative health and performance research.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYEMILY SWEDLUND/RELEASED)

Carrier Strike Group 12 holds change of command

ByEnsignMackenzieCulver

Carrier Strike Group 12

OSLO,Norway Inatime-honorednaval tradition,CarrierStrikeGroup(CSG)12held achangeofcommandceremonyaboardthe strike group’s flagship the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) as it anchored outside of Oslo, Norway whiledeployed,May24th.

Rear Adm. Erik J. Eslich relieved Rear

Adm.GregHuffmanandassumeddutiesas

Commander, Carrier Strike Group 12 in a ceremony attended by strike group leadershipandcrew

During the ceremony Huffman thanked thecrewfortheirhardwork dedication,and service to their country during his time as Commander.

“Totheamazingteam of StrikeGroup12, I am thankful for the incredible effort you put towards your work every single day. It hasbeenremarkabletoseealloftheachievementsofthestrikegroupduringthelasttwo years Your dedication to each other and yourunboundedenthusiasmforourmission setsthebaracrossthewaterfrontandflight

line for every warship and squadron in the Navy I am excited to see what the strike group continues to accomplish during this deploymentandwishtheentireteamnothingbutthebest,”saidHuffman.

Huffman assumed command of Carrier StrikeGroup12inJune2021.HeledCarrier Strike Group 12 through the first full ship shock trials for an aircraft carrier since 1986, the on-time completion of the Ford’s firstplannedincrementalavailability(PIA), strike group and air wing integration, and the completion of the Gerald R, Ford Strike Group’s first deployment to the U.S. 2nd FleetandU.S.6thFleetareasofresponsibilityinfall2022.

After reading his orders Huffman thankedhiswifeandfamilyfortheirsupport andannouncedthathewillreportfordutyas Commander,JointRegionMarianas

“It is an honor to join this team during deployment as the Commander, Carrier Strike Group 12,” said Eslich “I am excited for the opportunity to work alongside and sail with such an accomplished group of professionalsanddemonstratetotheworld the flexible and dynamic capability that

CarrierStrikeGroup12bringstothetheater duringourdeployment.”

EslichreportedtoCSG-12andtheGerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group during the ship’sscheduleddeploymenttotheU.S.6th Fleetareasofresponsibility

As a career surface warfare officer he servedtoursaboardUSSLakeErie(CG70), USSWasp(LHD1),USSOscarAustin(DDG 79), and Commander, Cruiser Destroyer GroupEight.EslichservedasexecutiveofficerforbothUSSO’Kane(DDG77)andUSS Ramage(DDG61)andhe went on to command both USS Ramage and Destroyer Squadron Two (CDS 2), throughout which, he has made multiple deploymentsinsupportoftrainingandreal worldoperations.

Eslich served as a U.S. House of Representatives case officer, Office of Legislative Affairs; executive assistant to Commander, NavalSurfaceForceAtlantic;globalrequirements officer at the Joint Integrated Air Missile Defense Organization (JIAMDO); surface warfare community manager at the bureau of Navy Personnel (BUPERS3); executive assistant to the Deputy

Commander and Commander U.S. Fleet Forces Command; and Deputy 7th Fleet Commander prior to assuming duties as Commander,CarrierStrikeGroup12

The Gerald R Ford Carrier Strike Group is comprised of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), USS Normandy (CG 60), USS Ramage (DDG 61), USS McFaul(DDG74),andUSSThomasHudner (DDG 116). CVW 8 squadrons are: HSC-9 “Tridents, HSM-70 “Spartans”, VAW-124 “BearAces”,VFA-37“Ragin’Bulls”,VFA-213 “Blacklions”, VFA-87 “Golden Warriors”, VFA-31 “Tomcatters”, VAQ-142, “Gray Wolves” andVRC-40Det2“Rawhides”.

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is conducting a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th fleet area of responsibility The GRFCSG provides an inherently flexible naval force capable of deploying across combatant commands to meet emerging missions, deter potential adversaries, reassure allies and partners, enhancesecurityandguaranteethefreeflow ofglobalcommerce

Allies maintain, sustain in the North Atlantic and High North

ByLt.Cmdr.TylerBarker

U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S Sixth Fleet

“An Army marches on its stomach. Napoleon Bonaparte is credited with this oft-quoted aphorism of the importance of logisticsinmilitaryoperations Whilearmies mayindeedmarchontheirstomachs,navies sail on their stomachs, their fuel reserves, andtheircriticalparts

While operating at sea, sometimes hundreds of nautical miles from the nearestland,andsometimesinchallengingenvironmentalconditionslikethoseoftheHigh North, ships require food, fuel, and parts fromreplenishmentvessels

During exercise Formidable Shield 2023, these replenishment vessels came in the form of RFA Tidesurge and Spanish oiler Patiño Together theshipsconductedmore than 20 replenishments-at-sea delivering 5 million liters of diesel fuel marine (DFM) and48palletsofsparepartsandstorestothe NATO Allied ships taking part in the exer-

cise. This sustainment allowed the ships to remainintheexercise“fight. “Patiño has had a very busy schedule during Formidable Shield 2023 as we have continued to replenish the multinational maritime force, allowing them to complete the work they need to do while underway,” saidSpanishNavyLTIgnacioGonzález-Tablas, Patiño’s operations officer “NATO interoperability shines through in everything our Allies do and that includes workingtogethertokeepourunitsonstationand onmission.

While Patiño and Tidesurge delivered parts and fuel at sea, the multinational commander, task group (CTG) integrated air and missile defense (IAMD), embarked aboard the Spanish frigate ESPS Blas De Lezo(F103),andthelogisticsteamatNaval StrikingandSupportForcesNATO(STRIKFORNATO) headquarters monitored the status of logistics throughout the force, directing these sustainment initiatives to keeptheforcetoppedupandintheaction.

It was not just replenishment ships who keptthefleetinfightingshape,though.From ground-basedresupplyintheAndøyaphase of the exercise, to big-wing air tanking in supportofAlliedfighteraircraft,andAllied helicoptersconductingpersonneltransfers anddeliveringpartsandsuppliesviavertical onboarddelivery(VOD)andverticalreplenishment (VERTREP), logistics is a true all handseffort.

“Our Allied helicopter crews delivered time critical components to several vessels throughout the exercise, underscoring their utility and our combined capacity to sustain ships underway,” said U.S. Navy Lt DylanKelly,FormidableShield’sHelicopter ElementCommander(HEC).“Flightcrews regularlydemonstratedtheirabilitytosafely andeffectivelyconductmultinationalcrossdeck operations, assisting the force to meet their logistical demands in the challenging andfast-pacedmaritimeenvironment.”

As Formidable Shield draws to a close, participating ships and aircraft will leave

this multinational force and carry on other nationalandAlliancetasking Regardlessof wheretheyoperate,however,therewillbea team of logisticians standing at the ready to keepthemmarching.

FormidableShieldisabiennialintegrated air and missile defense (IAMD) exercise involving a series of live-fire events against subsonic, supersonic, and ballistic targets, incorporatingmultipleAlliedships ground forces and aviation forces working across battlespacestodelivereffects.

FormidableShielddemonstratesAlliance cohesion, cutting-edge capacity and capability, and NATO Allies’ combined commitmenttothedeterrenceanddefenseofNATO territory.

For imagery, press articles, and other products related to Formidable Shield, please visit www.c6f.navy.mil www.dvidshub.net/feature/FormidableShield2023 andwww.twitter.com/USNavyEurope

Italian NavyCarlo Bergaminiclass FREMM frigate ITS Carlo Margottini (F592) conducts a replenishmentat-seawith RFATidesurge (A138)while underwayin the NorthAtlantic Ocean in support ofexercise Formidable Shield 2023,May 12 2023.Formidable Shield is a biennial integrated air and missile defense (IAMD) exercise involving a series oflive-fire events against subsonic,supersonic, and ballistic targets, incorporating multipleAllied ships,aircraft,and ground forcesworking across battlespaces to deliver effects (COURTESYPHOTOS BYITALIANNAVY)

VCW Pro Wrestling debuts at ODU this weekend

By The 757 Heater

Virginia Championship Wrestling debuts at Old Dominion University this Saturday night with not one, but two events at the ODU Volleyball Center! Matinee Mayhem begins at 2 PM and Primetime Pandemonium starts at 7 PM. The ODU Volleyball Center is located at 4509 Elkhorn Avenue in Norfolk. All seats are just $25 per event. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at vcwprowrestling.com.

Whether you choose to attend just one or both events, fans will have an opportunity to meet legendary professional wrestling referee Mike Chioda. During his illustrious career, Mike Chioda has refereed some of the most important matches in the game. He will be enforcing the rules in both VCW main events, as well as taking photos in the ring with fans during intermission.

As if two incredible cards of professional wrestling action are not enough, members of VCW will also participate in a special panel at the University Theatre on Friday night.

“Beyond the Mat, Behind the Curtain: A Pro Wrestling Panel Talk and Q&A” will feature VCW Director of Operations Jerry Stephanitsis, VCW Talent Coordinator Jonathan Elliott, and VCW competitor “Mr. Xcellence” Brandon Scott. In addition, ODU associate professors Myles McNutt and Marc Ouelette will join the discussion, and the ODU Dean of Libraries Timothy Hackman will be the moderator. This event, which starts at 7 PM, is free and open to the public. The University Theatre is located at 4600 Hampton Blvd in Norfolk. No tickets are required to enter.

Matinee Mayhem features a VCW Tag Team Championship main event with an extra stipulation. The Golden Pinky Society defend their titles against the team of Myles Hawkins and Adonis Cole. If the champions retain their titles, then Benjamin Banks will receive a one-on-one bout against his former manager “The Director” Jerry Stephanitsis at Primetime Pandemonium later in the evening. Banks and “The Director” have a history that dates back roughly eight years in VCW. Although they haven’t been aligned for a very long time, Stephanitsis has made it his mission to remain a thorn in his former ally’s side. If this bout does happen, smart money would be on Banks putting an end to the rivalry for good.

Fans who attend the afternoon event will also be treated to a six-man tag team bout.

Virginia Heavyweight Champion The Boar

joins forces with Dirty Money and Alex Divine to battle “Mr. Xcellence” Brandon Scott, VCW Liberty Champion Devantes, and Saul Esparza. There are a lot of issues between the competitors in this one, which is certain to result in an explosive contest. Also on the card, Erica Leigh locks up with the debuting Katie Hebner (the daughter of Earl Hebner). Logan Easton Laroux takes on Breaux Keller in what is certain to be an exciting match. The Batiri face-off against The Reality in a tag team showdown. Plus, “Greek God” Papadon has issued the firstever “Trials of Olympus” open challenge to anyone that thinks they can defeat him. Doors will open for Matinee Mayhem at 1:30 PM with bell time at 2 PM.

Primetime Pandemonium will be headlined by a Virginia Heavyweight Championship match. The Boar defends the richest prize in Virginia against the number one contender “Mr. Xcellence” Brandon Scott. Scott, a former three-time champion, defeated Phil Brown in April to earn this opportunity. Since these two will likely meet in the six-man tag team bout at Matinee Mayhem, it will be interesting to see who has momentum going into this huge main event.

Fans who attend the evening event will be treated to a second championship match as well. VCW Liberty Champion Devantes with the “Manager of Champions” Neil Sharkey defends his title in a Fatal Four Way against Dezmon King, Breaux Keller, and DK Vandu. Since two out of three of the challengers are not competing earlier in the day, the odds are against Devantes. However, with Sharkey circling outside the ring, it’s possible he still has the upper hand.

In other action at this event, Logan Easton Laroux takes on Alex Divine in their first encounter. Dirty Money faces off with Saul Esparza. Joe Keys returns to VCW to battle BJJ World Champion “Mush Master” Tim Spriggs. Plus, the pending bout between Benjamin Banks and “The Director” Jerry Stephanitsis could be a bonus bout for fans.

VCW debuts at Old Dominion University this weekend with a Friday night panel discussion and two huge cards of wrestling action on Saturday. The panel discussion on Friday begins at 7 PM and is free to the public. Matinee Mayhem takes place at 2 PM on Saturday with Primetime Pandemonium following it up at 7 PM. Tickets to each event are general admission and just $25. For more details head over to vcwprowrestling.com.

I’ll see you at the matches!

Honoring military spouses for extraordinary service to others

BY NOVELDA SOMMERS

Ann-Marie Hamrick was thrown into the fray immediately after she married her service member husband eight years ago. The couple moved to Italy just two days after their wedding. A week later, the groom, Bradley Hamrick, an Army officer, deployed to the Baltics.

Suddenly an ocean away from friends, family and familiar surroundings, Ann-Marie sought purpose and a sense of belonging. She found her footing by joining with other military spouses to serve the community as a volunteer. Today, she remembers Italy as one of her favorite duty stations, thanks to the camaraderie she found with other wives.

Now living in Hampton Roads, Ann-Marie was selected as overall winner in this year’s Heroes at Home special section honoring military spouses in our region. Ann-Marie and seven other finalists have each united people in their communities to tackle some big challenges. This year’s highly accomplished group includes an author, several entrepreneurs, an advocate for military children, relatively new spouses and long-time veterans of military life.

“Getting involved was my saving grace during the two years we were stationed in Italy,” Ann-Marie wrote in answer to a questionnaire our finalists filled out. “I helped the Brigade Commander’s spouse plan almost every coffee, social, FRG (Family Readiness Group) event and ball. I spent hours with a group of ladies who really became my family. To this day, we all keep in contact.”

Other nominees echoed Ann-Marie’s sentiments about forming lifelong bonds with fellow spouses as a way to cope. Monika Jefferson, who has moved 12 times in her 21 years of marriage to Army Maj. Roy Jefferson, said instant community among spouses has proved vital.

“The milspouses always welcome you with open arms,” Monika Jefferson said. “They see me and become family.”

For Ann-Marie, the pace of military life has only accelerated for her over the years. Today, she is a mother of four and leads numerous community initiatives at Fort Story, including a food pantry she started for soldiers, who lacked on-base eating options. She also helps with an organization for single soldiers and leads military family events for those stationed at Fort Story.

All of the nominees said they have valued the chance to help other families at each posting along their varied journeys. Read on to find out more about this year’s finalists, in their own words.

(Responses have been edited for length.)

U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS MEGAN WOLLAM

NOMINEE

„ SpouseofArmyLt Col.BradleyHamrick 11thBattalion, stationedatJointExpeditionaryBaseLittleCreek-FortStory

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:8

„ Numberofdeployments:5

„ NumberofPCSmoves:5

Myhusbandworks80-plushoursaweekcurrently.It’sachallenge forsure,especiallywithfourkidsveryactiveinsports

Ourkidscome to a lot of the events They truly see the soldiers as family My oldest (17) came to the BN ball with us, our son (16) plays in the BN/BDE golf tournaments and participates in battalion newcomers’ runs our son(13)runseverybase5kandlovestohelpsetupforevents andour youngest(5)providesentertainmentforeveryone

Including our kids is the best way we’ve found for them to understandtheirdad’sroleandresponsibilities

NowwithmyhusbandinBattalionCommand,Iamextremelyactive with the Battalion. I’ve created a Food Pantry, alongside community partners, for Fort Story (they do not have a dining facility), and have scheduledfoodtruckstocomeontobase Ireceivecookiedonationsto givetosoldierseveryThursday,andIoverseethevolunteerprogram.

I also worked closely with the ball committee and our community partners to reduce the cost of the battalion ball to $5 each ticket (715 in attendance). I am the senior advisor for the Soldier and Family Readiness Group, assist the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS)program,andIattendeveryeventI’minvitedtobythecompaniesorfamilies. Whatisthebestpartofbeingamilitaryspouse?Weenjoybeingbusy and moving It’s always an adventure. Luckily all of our duty stations have been amazing. Each place has brought us a new perspective, so muchwehavenoideawherewewanttoretire!

My words of wisdom for other military spouses: Be flexible and always look at the positive. There’s a lot of unknowns with the military. It can get frustrating not knowing what the next day looks like or where your spouse will be Get involved! Be in a community who can celebrate the wins and be there for the downs We are all in this together

Fun facts about Ann-Marie:

„ Ihavebeenanequestrianfor20+years

„ IwasbornandraisedinMemphis,Tennessee.

„ Iloveanythinghealth/fitnessrelated.

„ Iloverollercoastersandgoingfastincars(ifI’mnotthedriver).

„ Icanbendmyindexfingeronmylefthandallthewayback totouchthebackofmyhand.

„ IhaveaMaster’sDegreethatIhaveyettouse #militaryspouse

Volunteer service highlights:

„ 2022-current11thBattalionSeniorAdvisorSFRG,BOSS, anyevents

„ OPOCfortheBattalion,assistedBrigadewithplanning FamilyDay

„ PlannedBeachBashforFortStory,FortEustis

„ 7thTBXVolunteeroftheQuarter,

„ 2022JEBLCFSMilitarySpouseoftheYear „ Coordinatedeploymentbagstobegiventotroops

„ TrailsofPurposevolunteer

„ BreckenridgeManorvolunteer(equestrian)

„ 2020-2021-FostercarevolunteerTampa,FL.

NOMINEE

„ SpouseofNavyChiefPettyOfficerRossStowers, stationedatNavalStationNorfolk

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:16

„ Numberofdeployments:5

„ NumberofPCSmoves:3

Balance is a term that constantly evolves in the Stowers house I have three different planners that cover everything in our schedule Frommilitarylifeasaspouse,toombudsmantasks,myvolunteerwork in the civilian community, my contractor jobs and my baking and of courseouradultsociallives,tothekidsbaseball,volleyballandsocial calendars Itcanseemoverwhelmingifitisn’tstrategicallylaidoutin blackandwhite. Wemetbeforeheleftforbootcamp.Heproposedatbootcampgraduation. We married in Chicago in true military fashion at the court house WemovedtoCalifornia,andhedeployedshortlyafter.Sohere Iamthiswide-eyed19yearoldawayfromallofmyfamilyandfriends

In the nine months he was away, I had to learn to be strong and independent IfoundmysupportintheFRG.Thesewomenweremy savinggrace Ineverhadtofeelaloneandtheyhadhandledeverything Iwasdealingwithnow.

Through this group I met the ombudsman This woman handled everybattlewithsuchpoise,beitherownpersonalstrugglesorhelping another family or a sailor. She did this all while being a mom to three andaspouseherself Shewassucharolemodeltome At19Itookmy first ombudsman training course and was my role model’s successor whensheleftforaPCSmove

We now have a 13 year old and 11 year old. I have been an ombudsman for nearly each command my husband has been stationed with, andIlovethisroleverymuch.

Military spouses have some pretty incredible resources available so many that even after 16 years of affiliation, I don’t even know of themall.Iwouldlovetoseemoreopportunitiesateachcommandfor spouses to learn about and utilize those resources, to improve their qualityoflifebothduringandaftertheiractive-dutyaffiliations

Fun fact about Dawna:

„ Asifwedon’thaveafullenoughcalendar wedecided (me Idecided forsureallme)let’saddsomepets Sowehaveoneturtle twodogs,threecatsandfourducks!

Volunteer service highlights:

„ Ombudsman13years

„ PTApresidentandheavilyinvolvedatCity,Stateand nationallevels

„ CheercoachfortheDeepCreekRecCenter

„ DeepCreekBaseballAssociation,5yearsonboard aswellasteammom

“This is the beginning of a new day You have been given this day to use it as you will. You can waste it or use it for good. What you do today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. When tomorrow comes it will be gone forever In it’s place will be something you left behind. Let it be something good.”

“Positivity manifests positivity.”

NOMINEE

„ SpouseofArmySgt.JohnathonLawrence,stationedatFortLee

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:6

„ Numberofdeployments:0

„ NumberofPCSmoves:3

We’vebeenblessedwithanamazinggroupoffriendsateveryduty station,soIowethemalotofthanks.Alongwiththeamazingdaycares here,andthefactthatI’mamanagerandmakemyownschedule,I’m abletomakesurewealwayshavequalitytime. Weweremarriedwithonebabywhenhedecidedtojoin.Istayedat homeforayearbutdecidedtogobacktoworkwhenwegotstationed in Washington. Once I started working for Starbucks I realized the impact I could have on the military community through my job, and havelovedsupportingeachbasewe’vebeenatsince.

I’ve met so many amazing people in the past six years We follow eachothers’livesonsocialmedia,andIgettowatchtheirbabiesgrow It’s weird how someone I just met instantly becomes like family, and someevenknowmorethanmyfamilyaboutourlife.It’ssuchaspecial bond.

OnethingIwouldliketoseeimproved:I’msurealotofpeoplewould agreethewholementalhealthsituationneedsfixed.Novemberof2021 my brother-in-law who was also active duty took his own life Since I’vebeen advocating for everyone to get help andmaking sure everyoneknowshowtofindhelp.Thisstartedwithsimplyputtingsignsin mystoreonallbathroomdoorsonfreeresourcesinourcommunity Myadvicetoothermilitaryspousesis:Lifeiswhatyoumakeit,and soiseverybase No placewillbeperfect,and therewillalwaysbethe “favorite,”butembracing eachplacehelps FortLeewasahardmove for me but it is also where I fell in love with volunteering and really foundmyself

Fun facts about Desiree:

„ I’mamomofthreekids:7,4,2!

„ Myhusbandismyhighschoolsweetheartand wemetonadrumline.

„ IwasanextrainalltheChicagoTVshows! (ChicagoPD,Fire,andMed)

Volunteer service highlights:

„ FortLeeCYS(Child&YouthServices)volunteercoach

„ KennerHealthClinic:ChairofFundraisingfortheball

„ Onpostdaycareclassroomvolunteer

„ FeedMoreFoodBank

NOMINEE

„ SpouseofArmyColonelCarlJ.Faison,recentlyretiredfrom hisfinaldutyassignmentatthePentagon.

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:28

„ Numberofdeployments:1combat,2overseas

„ NumberofPCSmoves:8

Balancingfamily,work,andmilitarylifehasbeenachallengeforthelast 28 years The priority has been my spouse and his mission, my children and their needs, myself and my own self- care, determination, and aspirations. But balance and priorities have been key. Without a doubt, faith wasapartofitall. Ihaveknownmyhusbandsincesixthgrade.Wewerehighschoolsweethearts andmarriedwhenhe wasa secondlieutenant freshout of college Ihavenavigateditallwithhim.

One of the highlights of my military spouse background was serving family members as FRG leader during my spouse’s deployment with the 502d Personnel Services Battalion of the 4th Infantry Division. Working with families in crisis and time of war was demanding, challenging, and meaningful I found out how important military spouses are to soldiers andtoeachother

Thebestpartofbeingamilitaryfamilyisbeingchallengedinwaysthat haveultimatelymadeusstrongerasindividuals asafamily,andascitizens Ourentirefamilyhasfoundpurposeandmeaningintheexperiencesthat we’vehadovertheyears

We are resilient, versatile, independent, involved, engaged, aware, and compassionateaswemove,live,andbreatheintheworlddaily.It’shardto seeuswithoutseeingthemilitary’simpactonusasafamily Asamilitaryspouse,I’velearnedtotakeadvantageofallofthewonderful opportunitiesaffordedtofamiliesonourmilitarybasesandinstallations. Militarylifeisministryandmyroleasamilitaryspouseisoneofthemost important positions I’ve ever held as this position is a position of great supportforthemission,thesoldier ourfamily andcommunity

WhatwouldIliketoseeimprovedformilitaryspouses?Iwouldliketosee spousesgainsomeofthesamebenefitsthatservicemenandwomenreceive intermsofhealthcare,educationbenefitsandcredits,andtaxexemptions I’dliketoseedivorcedspousesreceivemoreassistanceandbenefits OneofmybestexperiencesasamilitaryspousewasservingasKeynote speakerfortheannualHeroesatHomeMilitarySpouseAwardsatFortLee in2019 Asamilitaryspousewithover24yearsofexperience(atthattime), I felt that sharing my story with new spouses, young spouses, and active spouseswasimportant.Spousesoftenshedmanytearsandexperiencefeelingsofbeingstagnant stuck andoftenunfulfilled.Havingsomeonewhohas livedthroughitissometimesalltheencouragementandsupportyouneed

Fun facts about Latorial:

„ I’mapoet.Ilovepoetry,singingintheshower,theVACavaliers, VATechHokies,andVSUTrojans!

„ I’maVAnative „ After28yearsaspouseand35yearstogether Istilllovehanging aroundthehousewithmymilitaryspouseandhavingconversations aboutallthingsus,life,religion,politics,education,andourfamilies.

Volunteer service highlights:

„ MeritoriousPublicServiceMedalforexceptionalvolunteerservice contributionsforfamiliesacrossthemilitarycommunity

„ Selectedtopresentatthisyear’sJuly2023MilitaryChildEducation CoalitionConferenceonTheMissedEducationoftheMilitaryChild

„ ServedonTheStateoftheMilitaryFamilypanelalongsideGeneral Milley2020;

„ VolunteerforNMFAinvariousways;NMFAScholar2019

„ WorkedwithVirginia’spoetlaureateLuisaIgloriatocreateaPoetry ReadingSeriesofVirginiaWriters&SupportedPoetryinSchools

“If I am succeeding at one, I am inevitably failing a the other That is the trade off.”

“We are each other’s harvest, we are each other’s business, we are each other’s magnitude and bond.”

GWENDOLYNBROOKES,AUTHORANDPOET

„ SpouseofNavyPettyOfficer2ndClassAustinFinney stationedatNavalStationNorfolk

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:4

„ Numberofdeployments:1

„ NumberofPCSmoves:3

HowdoIbalancefamily/work/militarylife?Withmassiveamountsof coffee,anabundanceofgrace,andawholelotofJesus Iamamomtothree young special needs boys and anxiously awaiting the July 2023 arrival of ourfirstlittlegirl Iworkfull-timeasachiefexecutiveassistantandjuggle attendingLibertyUniversityonlinefull-timeinadualmajorprogram,all while holding down the home front as a military spouse and advocating forourmilitarycommunity

My journey as a military spouse started two years before the military when I married my husband Austin. In the first month of marriage, we became full-time parents to Austin’s firstborn son. We grew to a family of five over the next two years With consideration and prayer, Austin enlistedintheNavy

After Bootcamp with Austin in instructional school, our little family moved to Illinois to join him. During our time there I attempted to get pluggedintothelocalspouseclubsbutfoundthattheyreallydidnotexist, atleastnotonesanewspousewouldbeinvolvedin.Iknewsomethinghad tochange,soIlaunchedanonlinenetworkthroughsocialmediaplatforms Ihavedonemybesttooffercontinuoussupporttoourmilitarycommunitybybeingpresent,onlineandinreallife.IrunvariousFacebookgroups for military spouses, families, and loved ones and am present in dozens more.IhaveevenhostedamonthlysupportgrouponlinethroughZoom. Locally,Ihostcoffeehours,meals,andeventsforspouses

Being a part of a military family instills a sense of pride and honor in servingone’scountrythroughsupportingourlovedoneswhoserve. Militarylifecanbechallenging,butgettinginvolvedinthecommunity canhelpyoufeelmoreconnectedandsupported.Attendevents,joinclubs or groups, and volunteer if possible Remember that taking care of yourselfisessentialtobeingasupportivespouseandthrivinginmilitarylife Being a part of the military community, as a military spouse, has been a positive life-changing experience for me It has offered me a sense of belonging, opportunities for personal growth and development, and the chance to form lifelong friendships with people who understand and supportmethroughtheuniquechallengesmilitarylifebrings

Fun facts about Eleanor:

„ Mostpeoplecallmeaserialvolunteer

„ TwoyearsagoIreturnedtoschoolfull-timetoobtainadegree inbiblicalmilitarycounseling,inthehopeofonedayproviding freeservicestoourunique,deservingcommunity.

Volunteer service highlights:

„ USSPhilippineSeaFamilyReadinessGroup/President

„ DefendersMilitaryMinistry/Founder

„ OhanaHomefrontFoundation/ExecutiveAssistant/Boardof Directors

„ USSPhilippineSeaFamilyReadinessGroup/Treasurer

„ USSPhilippineSeaFamilyReadinessGroup/Secretary

„ ClubM.O.MMilitary(Jacksonville)/Co-Founder

„ MayportHealthyMilitaryFamilyInitiative

„ USOMayport

„ NSMayportUSOPlaygroup/Co-President

„ Speleology „ NavySpousesandSignificantOtherssponsoredby NavyDep.com/Founder

NELSONMANDELA

NOMINEE

„ SpouseofNavyPettyOfficer2ndClassReedTaft, stationedatNorfolkNavalShipyard

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:4

„ Numberofdeployments:1

„ NumberofPCSmoves:1

How do I balance family/work/military life? Some days you give moreattentiontotheareasthatneedit.Somedayschildrenhelpmore and some days work schedules change to accommodate the family Militarylifefitsinandaroundeverythingwedo

I met my husband prior to his military service while we were both volunteerswiththeUnitedStatesNavalSeaCadetCorps Bothofour children were in the program, and volunteering has kept us involved inservingmilitaryfamiliesaswellascivilianfamilies Weaddedtoour familyduringthepandemicanditwasthemostwonderfulsurpriseI couldhaveaskedfor.

I have found a strong community of service members that have a heart for volunteer service as well. We have many more years to go, and many more lives to impact. My husband and I are blessed to be raisingfutureleadersinthankstohisserviceandhisleadershipinand outofourhome

Positive attitudes and outlooks change the world Being part of somethingbiggerthanyourselfisveryimportant Whetheritbefamily, church,athleticteamsorvolunteering.Familiesaremorethanblood, theyarethebondsofstruggleandjoy.

OnethingIwouldliketoseeimproved:Thereisalackofcontinuity intheeducationofourmilitaryyouthdependents DuringPCStimes, students can lose credits, academic standing, and opportunities due to differences in the level of education provided in many military denseareas.I’mshockedtoseesomanychildrengofromstraightA’s toalmostfailing.

Mymostfavoriteexperienceasamilitaryspousewasdrivingcross countrywithmydogstosetupourhomepriortomyhusbandcoming homefromdeployment.HehadachangeofhomeportduringdeploymentandIpackedup,soldthehouseandgoteverythingpreparedon myown.ThatwasthemomentthatIknewIcoulddoanything

Fun facts about JoAnn:

„ Iammomoftwoboys 18and16 anda2-year-olddaughter

„ Iworkasafull-timevolunteeronNavalStationNorfolkfor theSeaCadets „ In2019IwenttoSwedenasapartoftheInternationalExchange ProgramfortheSeaCadetCorps.

„ IworkedasaninstructorforFit4Mom,whichhelpedmegain thecouragetorun5halfmarathons.

Volunteer service highlights:

„ USNavalSeaCadetCorpssince2012

„ SoutheastAreaOfficeroftheYearfor2022

„ CommanderoftheTopHattersSquadronaboardNavalStation NorfolkatConstitutionHall

„ SeaCadetCorpsAdultVolunteerAdvisoryCommitteeteamfor PoliciesandProcedures

„ ShootingcoachfortheTopHattersScholasticShootingProgram

„ Beingacancersurvivorledmetoworkwithchildreninthe YMCAsummercampprogram.

NOMINEE

„ SpouseofMarineCorpsMasterSgt.PatrickLove,stationedwith MarineForcesCommand/CommanderU.S.SecondFleet.

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:19

„ Numberofdeployments:3

„ NumberofPCSmoves:6

HowdoIbalancefamily/work/militarylife?Withoutthestrengthof Godandhisword,Iwouldn’tmakeit Whenmyhusbandhastoleave fordeploymentIlookatmychildrenandIsay,“Welltheyarehelpless andneedme,mystrength,loveandguidance.”

IhavebeenaMarineWifefor19years Icouldhavebeenaspouse that sits at home sad and depressed because my Marine had to go awayfordeploymentorfortraining InsteadIdecidedtogetinvolved in the military community I have worked with Family Readiness Officers as well as Uniformed Readiness Officers to administer aid to families needing mental, physical or emotional support. I was alsotheretohelpfamiliesgettodoctorappointments,totheairport, grocerystoreorevenoutofstatetopickupavehiclethatwasPCS’d to the wrong address I was also the PTA President for two years at our elementary school.

Whatisthebestpartofbeingamilitaryspouse?TheBESTpartfor ourfamilywouldbethetraveling Ourchildrenhavebeenabletolive inplacesthatifitweren’tforusbeinginthemilitarytheymayormay not have been able to even visit. We have made friends all over the worldthathavebecomefamily

Thewordstolivebyasamilitaryspouse,nomatterwhatbranch,are: Always remember we are all in the same boat. Together we are ONE samesound,samemissionunderoneSunandMoon WhatisonethingIwouldliketoseeimproved?Iwouldlovetosee military pay change. There is no reason anyone should be faced with either feeding their family or getting gas to go to work. My family has been on the giving and the receiving side of this. We have helped numerousfamilieswithfood,gettinggasorwhatevertheyneededthe money for at that time Families have helped my family as well with groceriesatimeortwo.

Oneofmybestexperiencesasamilitaryspousewasbeingaskedto be in a delivery room to hold a phone so that a Marine wouldn’t miss hischildcomingintotheworld.

Fun facts about Krisheena:

„ Iwanttoownacow,aduck,ahorse,sixdogs,andliveina barndominiuminGeorgiasurroundedbytrees,withaTeslain thegaragecharging

Volunteer service highlights:

„ BoardMemberatColonelFredCherryMiddleSchool

„ VicePresidentofTheSuffolkEducationFoundation,

„ IwaspartoftheAllDistrictsRead“EllRayJakesisMagic becauseIknowtheauthor,SallyWarner.

„ PTAPresident,TarawaTerraceElementarySchool, August2018 June2020

„ FamilyReadinessOfficerAssistant,MarineCorps8thComm, August2018 July2020

“A leader is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.”

“You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”

„ SpouseofAirForceMaj.RoyJefferson stationedatJointBaseLangley-Eustis

„ Yearsasamilitaryspouse:21

„ Numberofdeployments:4

„ NumberofPCSmoves:12

How do you balance family/work/military life? Communication and setting realistic expectations with yourself and your family It is certainlynoteasy,butitismanageable Irelyonmycalendartocommunicate my work commitments and kids’ schedules, as well as weekly meetings to review up-and-coming things each week I truly believe it’s a family effort, and everyone has a role in ensuring the machine iswell-oiled.Ialsomakesuretoscheduleandblockofffamilytime

My dad was in the Army. I married my husband right out of high school,andhejoinedtheAirForceafewmonthslater.Wewereenlisted for six years and then got out of the military for two years while Roy workedwithaprogramatFSUandwascommissionedin2006

The best part of being a military spouse is the ability to have a community anywhere you go The milspouses always welcome you withopenarms Theyseemeandbecomefamily

One thing military spouses are facing that I would like to see improved:Underandunemployment.Thishasbeenanongoingissue withourspousesforoveradecade Myadvicetomilitaryspousesistobepreparedfortheunexpected. There are going to be things out of your control, be prepared to pivot whenithappensandmakethebestoutofthesituation.

Fun facts about Monika:

„ Dangerouslyaddictedtonachos

„ Lovesagoodcrimepodcast.

Volunteer service highlights:

„ Since2019Ihavebeenmentoringacommunityofover10,000 spouseswithprogrammingandeventsformilitaryspouse entrepreneurs

„ KeySpouseMentor

“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

YOUR EXPERIENCEISNEEDED!

Since 1933, The Barry Robinson Center has been devoted to improvingthe lives of children and their families. We are amission-driven non-profit organization 100% committed to supporting familiesthat have served in the UnitedStates Armed Forces.

Our military-connectedyouthbetweenthe agesof11and 17 can oftenface challenges unique tothe sacrifices their families have made for our nation. We are currently growing our team of dedicated staff that have an understanding of military culture and can contribute to the hope,happiness, and success of our residents.

Please visit BARRYROBINSON.ORGtoday to learn more and apply