Hybrid Fleet Readiness Seminar goes coast to coast Capt.Harold Cole,NAVIFORDeputyDirector forInformationWarfare Readiness Directorate kicked offthe Fleet Command,Control, Communications,Computers,Intelligence, Surveillance,and Reconnaissance Familiarization Seminar in earlyMay. PageA2
KimberlyKoonce
Fleet Readiness Center East Public Affairs
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION
CHERRY POINT, N.C. Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE) has reached another milestone toward the drawing down of its AV-8B Harrier program, with the completion of its last TAV-8B trainer aircraft. The two-seater trainer was delivered May 11 to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 223, located at Cherry Point.
The Marine Corps is moving to replace the Harrier with the short takeoff-vertical landing F-35B Lightning II by 2027, which means FRCE’s AV-8 program will soon transition to supporting other platforms.
Many of the aircraft maintenance professionals on FRCE’s Harrier program have spentasignificantpartoftheircareersrepairing and maintaining AV-8 aircraft They say that’s why it’s tough to see another piece of theprogram’sworkloadcometoanend
“I’ve been at FRC East for almost 32 years and this aircraft is almost 35 years old, which means it was flying before I camehere, saidJeffBroughton,AV-8planner at FRCE. “I’ve spent 20 years on this program, so you can imagine how many
times I’ve seen this aircraft come through forPlannedMaintenanceIntervalevents I worked on it once while I was a mechanic and twice while I was a planner, so you get toknowthehistoryoftheaircrafteachtime it comes through.”
BroughtonsaidtheHarrierprogramhas established an impressive record of working under budget and ahead of schedule, and its final TAV-8B is no exception. According to Broughton, FRCE’s total combined work on this particular aircraft overtheyearswasestimatedtotakenearly 11,000workhours,butatallyofallthework actually completed on the aircraft came in at only 8,100 hours Even on its last trip throughthedepot,itwasdeliveredbackto the fleet eight days early.
“Our FRCE AV-8 team prides itself on being ahead of schedule and under budget most of the time,” Broughton said. “We might be considered out of sight, out of mind as a sundowning program, but the teamisproudofbeinggoodstewardsofthe customer’s money and being on or ahead of schedule to keep the customer happy.”
With three more scheduled PMI inductions over the next year and a half, the AV-8 team will be disassembling, inspect-
ing, repairing, reassembling and testing those aircraft They are dismantling retired aircraftandremovinggoodpartstoberefurbished and returned to the supply system to be used on the aircraft remaining in the fleet. Artisans also continue to support the Marineswithonsitein-servicerepairs
Currently FRCE’s AV-8 program is scheduled to complete its final aircraft in September2025 Bythatpoint,thepersonnel assigned to that team will be pursuing the next steps in their careers
“We have a highly experienced team here, and many of them have been on this programforalongtime,”saidMikeStewart, AV-8 shop supervisor at FRCE. “They are extremely knowledgeable and can handle any issues with the AV-8.”
Many will go on to support growing and incoming workload, such as the F-35, CH-53KandC-130platforms Stewartsaid these programs will benefit from the qualityworkandstrongcustomerrelationships formed by the AV-8 team, especially as the MarineCorps’formerAV-8squadronshave transitioned to flying the F-35 “We have spent years building a good foundation with the AV-8 community, and nowtheywillbeourfuturecustomerswith
the F-35,” Stewart said. “The program may be ending, but we’ve paved a clear path for future endeavors with the customer for a long time to come.”
Asalong-timememberoftheAV-8team, bothasaMarineandlaterasacivilianartisan at FRCE, F-35 and AV-8 Branch Head Ike Rettenmair said he is proud of what the Harrier program has accomplished and looks forward to what lies ahead for the fleet.
“You always hate to see a platform sundown, but technology is changing, our threatsarechanging,anditistimetomove to the F-35 and the capability it will bring tothewarfighter,”Rettenmairsaid.“FRCE willcontinuetosupportteamHarrieraswe have always done, until the final Harrier lands on the runway, regardless of when that will be.”
FRCE is North Carolina’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, with more than 4,000 civilian, military and contract workers Its annual revenue exceeds $1 billion. The depot provides service to the fleet while functioningasanintegralpartofthegreater U.S. Navy; Naval Air Systems Command; andCommander,FleetReadinessCenters
StoryByHughCox
Navy and Marine Corps Force Health Protection Command
The Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center changed its name in accordance with section 711 of John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for FY19 to the Navy and Marine Corps Force HealthProtectionCommand(NMCFHPC), effective January 01, 2023, emphasizing its operationalmissionfocus.
According to Capt. Matthew McLean, NMCFHPC’s Commander, the mission to provide force health protection through enhancement of operational units organic preventive medicine and environmental health assets to prevent illness and its impactstoreadinessremainunchanged.
“Wewillcontinuetoprovidepublichealth
consultation and expertise to operational forces and shore command stakeholders across the Navy, Marine Corps and joint environments to guide best practices and procedures,resolveissuesandshapepolicy,” saidMcLean.
The transition is expected to be seamless with NMCFHPC continuing to deliver the same exceptional public health expertise worldwide with no changes to the availability of public health services, tools and resources
With the exception of the name change, NMCFHPC’s public-facing website will remain the same, including content, and points-of-contact. Eventual changes to the URLs for our webpages and social media sites (Facebook, Twitter Instagram, Linkedin)willbepostedtoourcurrentsitesprior tothetransition.
The Navy and Marine Corps Force HealthProtectionCommand(NMCFHPC) develops and shapes public health for the U.S. Navy and Marines Corps through health surveillance, disease and injury prevention, and public health consultation. Learn more by going to www.nmcphc.med. navy.mil FollowNMCFHPConsocial mediaathttps://www.facebook.com/ NavyAndMarineCorpsPublicHealthCenter http://twitter.com/nmcphc and https://www.instagram.com/ nmcphc/
Navy Medicine represented by morethan44,000highly-trainedmilitaryandcivilianhealthcareprofessionals providesenduringexpeditionary medical support to the warfighter on, below,andabovethesea,andashore.
Navy Expeditionary Combat Command selects top sailor NECC announced its Sailor of the Year during a ceremony at its headquarters onboardJoint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story June 2. Construction Electrician 1st ClassJanice N. Coppock, from Omaha, Nebraska, earned top honors as the force’s Sea Sailor of the Year PageA3
757.446.9000
FromNavalInformationForces
PORTSMOUTH, Va.—Capt. Harold Cole,NavalInformationForces’(NAVIFOR)
Deputy Directorfor Information Warfare ReadinessDirectorate (IWRD), kicked off the Fleet C4ISR(Command, Control, Communications,Computers,Intelligence, Surveillance,and Reconnaissance) Familiarization Seminar, in early May. ThisquarterlyseminarishostedbyNavalInformation WarfareSystemsCommand(NAVWAR)4.1 andPEO(ProgramExecutiveOffice)C4I. ColespoketotheNAVIFOR’sInformation Warfare (IW)missionand howitconnects withthe goalofthis seminar -toprovidea baseline understandingofC4ISR and associatedinstallationsandlogistics.Thetarget audience for this unclassified seminar are personnelassignedtoacarrierstrikegroup (CSG)oranamphibiousreadiness group (ARG) who mustbecome familiar with
these current systemsaswell as Navy-wide processes.This knowledgeisdesigned to improve Fleet awareness of capabilities, processesanddeploymentpreparationsfor NAVWARandPEOC4Isystems
NAVIFORleads the Command, Control, Communications,Computers,Combat Systems,and Intelligence (C5I) WholenessCampaign Plan,inclosecoordination with severalpartners to include NAVWAR. The C5I Campaign Plan is acontinuing Fleet initiativewith the goalofimproving C5I readiness across the Optimized Fleet ResponsePlan(OFRP)byclosingC5IreadinessgapsimpactingFleettrainingandoperationalreadiness.
“Inthe21stcentury,informationisascriticaltofleetoperationsaspropulsion.Propulsion is integral to awarship.Weneedtobe abletotraceapacketofdatathroughourC5I systems, just as we understand fundamentally howtotrace adropofwater through a
steam cycle.” said Cole.“Today, if youcan’t traceapacketofdata,itliterallycanbecatastrophic.Wecannotfightwithoutinformation. Systems matter,and the readiness of thesesystemsmatters.”
Briefs arepresented by NAVWAR and PEO programmanagers,engineers, and associated commandsdirectly involved withafloat C4ISR system planning, installation, integration, maintenance,training andlogistics
With the implementationofFlank Speed TEAMS in the post-COVID-19era, NAVWAR introduced the hybrid in-person and virtual format for thisseminar.To further expand the audience, this quarter’s seminarheld inMay washeld on the East CoastatNavalInformationWarfareCenter Atlantic, St.Julien’sCreek Annexnear the NorfolkNaval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Va The combination of TEAMSand in-person formatmakestheseminarmoreaccessibleto
CSG and ARGafloatstaffs, andother afloat and forwarddeployedpersonnel, on both coastsandworldwide Ms.MariaDesandreofIntegritsCorporationisthepointofcontactformoreinformationonthisseminar.Shecanbereachedvia email at maria.e.desandre.ctr@us.navy.mil ormaria_desandre@integrits.com
NAVIFOR’smission is to generate, directlyand throughour leadership of the IW Enterprise,agileand technically superiormanned, trained, equipped, and certifiedcombat-readyIWforcestoensure our Navy willdecisivelyDETER, COMPETE, andWIN FormoreinformationonNAVIFOR,visit the command Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/NavalInformationForces/ or the public webpageathttps:// www.navifor.usff.navy.mil.
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KimberlyMartinez
Navy Expeditionary Combat Command
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) announced its Sailor of the Year (SOY) during a ceremony at its headquarters onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, June 2.
ConstructionElectrician1stClassJanice N.Coppock,fromOmaha,Nebraska,earned top honors as the force’s Sea Sailor of the Year She is currently stationed with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5 out of Port Hueneme California. Coppock was one of five finalists vying for the title which carried a meritorious promotion to Chief Petty Officer “Our finalists are the best expeditionary warriors we have to offer the Navy and our nation. Iron sharpens iron, and selecting our winner was not an easy decision,” said NECC Force Master Chief Rick Straney “These outstanding Sailors were selected by their respective chains of command and participated in administrative and face-to-face interview boards Petty OfficerCoppockrepresentedeverythingweask forofourSailors Shedemonstratedhonor, courage and commitment, and the unique type of leadership we need in our force.”
The five finalists emerged from a larger groupofSailors,whichwasnarroweddown to the group who competed for the title EachSailorwasescortedtothecompetition by a representative from their command who served as their sponsor throughout the event. The NECC SOY coordinators, Senior Chief Master at Arms Andy Williams and SeniorChiefEquipmentOperatorAmanda Ibalio had the task of coordinating the entire program and planning the SOY weekscheduleofevents.Theyalsoworked closely with various units to ensure the candidates had a memorable experience “As previous Sailor of the Year winners, we understand what it takes to get here. Being able to see their packages with the understanding of howt we did our packages, it was very evident how competitive andreadytheseSailorswereandhowthey took care of their Sailors and commands,” said Williams “It was wonderful to see everything come together and to show them a great week of what collaboration betweentheChiefsmessmeans—especially withpickingaSailorthatisnowaChief,and theyknowit.Youlookatallfiveofthemand you know that it’s a matter of ‘when’, and not ‘if’ they will make Chief.”
Coppock attended SOY Week with her command master chief who made the trek with her from Okinawa Japan. He explained that she is a mentor to many in their command, including junior officers and her peers.
“She’s one of those first class petty offi-
VIRGINIABEACH,Virginia (June 2,2023) - NavyExpeditionaryCombat Command (NECC) announced its SailoroftheYear(SOY) during a ceremonyat its headquarters onboardJoint ExpeditionaryBase Little Creek-Fort Story,June 2.Construction Electrician 1 st ClassJanice N.Coppock,from Omaha,Nebraska,earned top honors as the force’s Sea SailoroftheYear She is currentlystationedwith
cers out there making it happen, already filling the role of a chief,” said Command Master Chief Michael Saenz, NMCB 5.
“We selected her to be an assistant officer-in-charge of a remote detachment site andwheneversheisgivenSailors,wetrust her to do the right thing She continually surpasses all expectations and is there for herSailorsandforthemission.Wecouldn’t ask anything more of her!”
Coppock, who has been in the Navy for 14 years attributes her selection to the support and dedication of her leadership and the hard work of her Sailors
“It’s an absolute honor I didn’t get here by myself I’m really representing the
ChiefsmessandmostofallmySailors,”said Coppock. “When I was coming up for this, I had a Chief say that you will not get there byyourself,soI’mcarryingmyChiefsmess and Sailors on my back. I am representing them, and this is truly for them.”
Coppock said that her father, a retired Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate, inspired hertojointheNavy Sheexplainedthatshe grew up watching him wear the uniform, which made her want to do the same She also discussed one of the first issues she wants to address when she enters the Chiefs Mess, which happens to be one of the Navy’s biggest concerns “IwanttospeakupforthoseSailorswho
are struggling with the decision to stay in theNavy Wehaveachallengewithkeeping SailorsintheNavy andIwanttohelpinfluencethemesstomakesurethatretentionis animportantaspectwearefocusingonand taking action upon.”
NECC resources, mans, trains, equips and maintains readiness for the Navy’s 20,000activedutyandReserveexpeditionary forces With their unique capabilities, Navy expeditionary combat forces enable accessfromthesea throughoutthelittorals and into inland operating environments in competition and conflict
FromCommander,U.S.Fleet
ForcesCommand
Adm.DarylCaudle,commander,U.S.Fleet Forces Command (USFFC), named Operations Specialist 1st Class Kandace Tomkin, of Commander, Task Force 80, as the 2022 USFFC Sea Sailor of the Year (SOY) and HospitalCorpsman1stClassHeatherRufohuse,ofUnitedStatesMarineCorpsForces Command astheUSFFCShoreSOY.
Theceremony,heldindowntownNorfolk, Va cappedoffaweekofrigorousinterviews andteam-buildingeventsfocusedonleadership,mentorship,andheritage
“These highly-motivated Sailors reflect the grit, determination, tenacity, and fighting spirit that defines what it means to be a United States Navy Sailor whose reputation gives our nation’s adversaries pause,” said Caudle “We are extremely proud to servealongsidetheseSailorswhorepresent thebestofthebestourNavyhastooffer.”
Although only two Sailors are named “FleetForcesSeaorShoreSailoroftheYear,” the nine candidates on the East Coast were hand-selected from 125,000 Sailors who
serveUSFFC.
“After sitting down with these top performing Sailors who represent a variety of warfighting communities and occupational specialties, I am confident our Navywillcontinuetobeingoodhands,”said FleetMasterChiefJohnPerryman,USFFC.
“These outstanding Sailors represent their family, their mentors, leadership, and their commands Theirnominationisatestament toallwhohavehelpedshapeandmoldtheir careers.”
The ceremony focused on the finalists’ sustained superior performance and how they rose to become masters of their craft through technical, managerial, and leadershipexcellence
The Sea and Shore SOYs thanked their chainsofcommand,mentorsandfellowSailorsforcontributingtotheirsuccess
For Tomkin, born abroad in Weisbaden, Germany,selectionasSeaSailoroftheYear wasaveryemotionalexperience
“There’ssomanypeople[tothank]butmy family,myhusband,mymother,mychildren, are probably the most important people, because without them and their support,
there’s no way I’d be able to juggle everythingthatIdo,”shesaid.
Rufohuse also had many she wanted to thank.
“It feels very surreal, and I can’t wait to make sure that all of my juniors and my peers and everyone knows because this is really a reflection of all of our hard work,” said Rufohuse a native of Cleveland, Ohio “It’s not mine, its theirs, we’re together as a team and this would never have happened withoutthem.”
To her fellow finalists Rufohuse said, “Continuetobethesheepdog,becausethat’s what leaders are, they stand next to their flock, but they’re never one of them They mentorthem,protectthem,guidethemand lead them And they have no problem turningontowardsthewolf,takingthemonand then returning to the flock, because that’s whatleadersdo.SoIhavenodoubtyouguys aregoingtocontinuetodothat
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the SOY program established in 1972 by Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Elmo Zumwalt and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy John Whittet, to recognize the
fleet’stopperformingSailors.
The U.S. Fleet Forces Sea and Shore SOY winner will be meritoriously advanced to ChiefPettyOfficer(CPO)andwillcomplete CPO initiation and be frocked during their CPOpinningceremony
FleetForcesSeaFinalists:
HospitalCorpsman1stClassJeffrey
Bentley,UnitedStatesMarineCorps
ForcesCommand
Gunner’sMate1stClassCollinVlazny
NavyMunitionsCommandAtlantic
PersonnelSpecialist1stClassKezia
Thomas,MilitarySealiftCommand
FleetForcesShoreFinalists
Yeoman1stClassLatoyaDobbs,United StatesFleetForcesDRA
InformationSystemsTechnician1st
ClassAlecGarleb,SubmarineForce
Atlantic
NavalAircrewmanHelicopter1stClass
AaronPrimm,NavalAirForceAtlantic
InteriorCommunicationsTechnician
1stClassGiannaD’Esposito,NavalSurface ForceAtlantic
Naval Support Activity South Potomac
DAHLGREN,Va NavalSupportActivity South Potomac (NSASP) welcomed its seventh commanding officer at a ceremony under beautiful sunny skies at the Naval Support Facility (NSF) Dahlgren Parade Field on June 1, 2023. The command bid farewell to Capt Todd Copeland and welcomedCapt DavidJ.Wilson,Jr
Rear Admiral Nancy Lacore, commandant, Naval District Washington, presided over the ceremony and served as guest speaker She first recognized the Copeland andWilsonfamilymemberspresentforthe ceremony “Families hold profound significance for military members, serving as a pillar of support, love, and strength. For those in the military, families provide an unwavering foundation that sustains them through the demanding challenges and sacrificesinherentintheirservice.”Shethen highlighted Copeland’s accomplishments sincetakingcommandinJulyof2020inthe midstofthepandemic.
She recalled some of the lighthearted highlights of Copeland’s South Potomac tenure, including some challenging Q&A sessions with Dahlgren School students and his advocacy of wildlife on base when he, at the urging of two children that reside on base approved the installation of “turtle crossing”signsacrossthebase ShesharedCopeland’scommandaccomplishments,includingpassingallinspections and assessments in all departments, with outstanding scores on security inspections and commended the relationships he built with the other regional commanding officers, as well as tenant command leadership andthelocalcommunities
“He expertly managed community outreach in two states two counties, and fourmunicipalities Heworkedtirelesslyto improvetheeffectivenessofinteractionsand communications between the military and localgovernments.”
She capped her remarks with words
directly from Copeland’s staff Among the glowingreviews,shesharedastaffmember’s comment - “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the workingrelationshipwe’vedevelopedover thelastthreeyears It’sbeenbuiltonmutual trustandrespectandIwillforeverbegratefulforthat.
Mayor Robin Schick from the town of Colonial Beach, Va presented Copeland withagift,thankinghimforthestrongrelationship between NSA South Potomac and hercommunity SheappreciatedCopeland’s supportpersonallyofthe“restaurants,breweriesandactivitiesofourtown Wewillmiss you,you’vebecomepartofourcommunity.” She also presented a gift to Capt. Wilson to welcome him to the community, including a golf cart rental so he can properly explore hertown.
At Copeland’s request, the ceremony’s traditional “side boys” included two Sailors, two police officers and two firefighters from NSASP, a reflection of the command’s mission. When Copeland took the stage, he recognized and shared appreciation for the service-orientedpersonnelofNSASP
He first thanked his family for their continued support and recognized the sacrifices his children have made, including serving as his daughter’s college roommateduringherfirstsemesteratPennState University, where she attended virtually during the pandemic from their home. He then praised Admiral Lacore for her leadership “The biggest compliment I can give a boss is that you let me lead, you let me executemissioncommand.
Copeland reflected on the establishment of Commander, Navy Installations Command(CNIC)in2003andthecreation of an installation commander that “essentially labels one person as senior plumber, electrician, landlord HOA president, and cruise director.” He expressed gratitude to histenantmissionpartnersatDahlgrenand Indian Head for their patience and letting himlearnand“findhispace”whilesupportinghimalongtheway.
Copeland shared an effusive thanks to
NSASPsecurity,fireandEMSstafffortheir outstanding performance during his tour and declared “you did more with less than anyoneelse.”Heexpressedgratitudeforthe opportunitytopresentnumerouslife-saving awardstofireandEMSpersonnelthroughouthisthreeyearsincommand He thanked his Morale, Welfare and Recreation staff for their perseverance during the unprecedented pandemic. “You kept the lights on,” he told the staff “You werecreativeandresilient”and “didamazingthingstotakecareofourSailors,Marines and their families.” Copeland especially appreciated their support of his suggestions to continue holiday celebrations from adistance,includingReverseTrickorTreat andSantaparadesanddeliveryofpumpkins tobasehouses.
Copeland extended thanks to his Sailors, command master chief and executive officer,andforhislastactasacommanding officer, presented an Impact Award, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal to Culinary Specialist Second Class Jonathan Richardson, who responded on his own on Christmas Day 2022 to a major water leak atDahlgrenSchoolandassistedinclean-up of the facility and coordination of multiple temporary classrooms while repairs are made In closing, Copeland shared the message withallinattendancethat“wearethebase.” Hereferredtothemanypersonnel,military and civilian aboard NSF Dahlgren and NSF Indian Head, but also to community leaders outside the fence lines “We come from different backgrounds, work on different sides of the fence, but we work together because we know that the base is the community and the community is the base We worked together during the pandemic, we problem solved we figured out remote work, we figured out masks and six feet separation we never gave up on the morale andwelfareofthecommunity,wetookcare of each other, and we continued to execute themission.”
“These installations and the commu-
nities around them are special. The work that happens at Indian Head and DahlgrenensureourNavycontinuestomeetthe emergingchallengesacrosstheglobe.From energetic production, to the response to a chemicalorbiologicalattack tothetraining of the operators of weapons systems, to the researchanddevelopmentofthenextgeneration of surface and space warfare, South Potomac is here to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.”
Copeland closed by saying, “It has been theprivilegeofmyNavycareertobepartof thisteamandIhumblythankyouall.”
Capt. David J. Wilson, Jr was then installed as the new NSASP commanding officer After thanking his wife, children, parents and sister who were in attendance, he thanked Capt Copeland for “the best turnoverI’vehadin24yearsintheNavy.”He wishedCopelandandhisfamilysafetravels and said he looks forward to hearing about Copeland’snextadventure
Wilson, who comes to NSASP after eight months at CNIC thanked Admiral Lacore forattendingandsaid“IknowNavalDistrict Washington is the best regional out of all of them. I’m glad to be a part of it and I look forwardtoworkingwithyou.”
He then thanked his new command for theirwarmwelcome “EveryoneImetwith throughout turnover seems to really like it hereandisdedicatedtotheinstallation.Igot thefeelingthatthisclose-knitgroupresemblesafamilyandthat’sprettycool Iwantto keepthatgoingandbuildonthestrongfoundationthatyouhavealllaidhere.”
Wilson, a University of Virginia graduate, previously served as a helicopter pilot with 2300 flight hours and 595 shipboard landings and commanded the Scorpions of Helicopter Maritime Squadron (HMS) 49 following numerous operational assignments. Copeland will next serve at Kansas Universitywherehewillbecomecommanding officer of the school’s Reserve Officers’ TrainingCorps(ROTC).
Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story
Family, friends, colleagues, and shipmates gathered at the Joint Expeditionary Base(JEB)FortStoryFirstLandingChapel to witness the time-honored tradition of a changeofcommandceremonyonJune1.
Capt.DavidL.GrayrelievedCapt.Michael L. Witherspoon as the new commanding officerofJEBLittleCreek-FortStory.
Witherspoon assumed command of the Navy’s largest naval amphibious base in June 2020 He navigated the installation throughCOVID-19andcomplexandcritical encroachmentmattersduringhistenure.He spearheadedexceptionaloperationalquality of life initiatives, culminating in the installation departments receiving many awards andaccolades.
“Today is bittersweet in so many ways,” said Witherspoon. “Partly, because I have tosayfarewelltomyamazingstaffandsome of the most amazing colleagues all of my amazing fellow COs and farewell to our community partners I have called Hampton Roads home for the past 27 years, so it painsmetosayfarewell.”
Throughout his speech, Witherspoon reminisced about his time at JEB Little Creek-Fort Story and praised his team members, community partners, mentors, and family for their combined support Witherspoon received the Legion of Merit duringtheceremonyforexceptionalmeritoriousperformanceandserviceastheinstallationcommandingofficer
Witherspoon’s next assignment is as commanding officer, Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps Auburn-Tuskegee ConsortiuminAuburn,Ala.
Following the award presentation, Witherspoon and Gray officially changed commandbyreadingtheirorders TheceremonymarkedGray’sfirstaddress to the command. During his speech, he emphasized that the continued success of theinstallationdependsoneveryoneworkingasaTEAM
“I love our great working relationship withtheCityofVirginiaBeachandNorfolk. Justonepersonwillnotwinthejob,butthe
JEBLittleCreek-FortStoryteam,”saidGray “I look forward to winning the fights ahead of us as we help 33 commands onboard complete their mission We must protect themasthey conductoperationsto winthe high-endfightagainstouradvisories.
Gray began his Navy career in 1990 as an engineman aboard the USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44). In 1996, he was selected for the Seaman-to-Admiral Program and was commissionedonJune7,1996 Hisprevious assignmentsincludeservingasthecommu-
nications officer aboard USS Stout (DDG 55), weapons officer aboard USS Typhoon (PC5),firstlieutenantaboardUSS Ashland (LSD 48), commanding officer aboard USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41), and the new ExpeditionarySeaBased(ESB)warshipUSS Hershel“Woody Williams(ESB4).
Gray’s shore duty assignments include servingastheSurfaceWarfareDirectorate’s deputydirectorofwarfighterdevelopment; port operations officer for maritime operations;chiefofstaffofficerofAfloatTraining
Joint
Base Little CreekFort Story provides premier support and services to its resident command, military andcivilianpersonnel,andtheirfamiliesto enable warfighting forces to execute their assignedmission
USS Harry S Truman
NORFOLK, Va.— Rear Adm. Sean Bailey relieved Rear Adm. Paul Spedero as the commanderofCarrierStrikeGroup(CSG)8 duringachangeofcommandceremonyheld at the Pennsylvania House in Naval Station Norfolk,May31,2023
Spedero served as commander of CSG 8 from May 2022 to May 2023 During his tenureheled7,500Sailorsassignedtothree staffs, 11 ships, and nine Air Wing squadrons Heoversawthecompletionofthefirst transfer of authority of a U.S. Carrier Strike Group to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization amid Russia’s unprovoked invasion ofUkraine,makingU.S.andworldhistory
“This was already a top-notch, world-
BySusanneGreene
Norfolk Naval Shipyard
PORTSMOUTH, Va
We never know whenwearegoingtogetthenexthurricane in Hampton Roads, but it is always wise to prepare and know which flood zone you workandlivein.Fortheseasonedcitizensof HamptonRoads,we’velearnedthatasevere thunderstorm,tropicalstormandNor’easter can do just as much damage as a category onehurricane
“Preparingbeforethestormarrivesmeans makingsureyouandyourfamilyhavewhat you need in order to safely ride out the storm, statedNorfolkNavalShipyardEmergency Management Officer Nicole Roten. “Makeanevacuationplan,knowyourzone, and determine where you will stay if you
class absolutely phenomenal team when I showed up The only thing I had to do was get out of the way, said Spedero about the Sailors of each staff, ship and squadron within the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group “Myawardisareflectionofthework ofmyteamandmystaff “
Uponreadingtheirorders,Baileybecame the 23rd commander of CSG 8. Vice Adm.
Jim Kilby, commander Task Force 80 and deputycommander U.S.FleetForces Kilby attended the event as the presiding officerandguestspeaker.
“To me, you are exactly the right person forthejobwithattitudeandpurposetobring commanderStrikeGroup8towhereitneeds tobe,”saidKilby Whenlookingaheadtohisupcomingtour with the strike group, Bailey congratulated
Spedero and remarked on the extraordinarylevelofperformancethatthegrouphad demonstratedunderhiscommand
“I’m glad we’ve had the opportunity to recognize the efforts and achievements of the men and women of carrier strike group 8ledbyRearAdm.Spedero,”saidBailey “It’s trulyanhonortofollowhimincommanding CarrierStrikeGroup8.Ihaveabsolutelyno doubtinthequalityofthestaff.”
Carrier Strike Group 8’s flagship USS HarryS.Truman(CVN75),theninesquadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 and the staff and guided-missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28, which include:USSBainbridge(DDG96),USSCole (DDG67),USSGravely(DDG107)andUSS Jason Dunham (DDG 109); and the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS San Jacinto (CG
56) TheSquadronsofCVW1includeStrike Fighter Squadrons (VFA) 11 “Red Rippers”; VFA-211 “Fighting Checkmates”; VFA-34 “Blue Blasters”; VFA-81 “Sunliners”; Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 137 “Rooks”; Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 126 “Seahawks”; Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11 “Dragonslayers”; Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 72 “Proud Warriors”; and a detachmentfromFleetLogisticsSupportSquadron (VRC)40“Rawhides.
For more news from CSG 8, visit, www facebook.com/CSG8, www.navy.mil/local. cvn75/, www.facebook.com/usnavy, www instagram.com/uss_harrys.truman, www navy.mil,orwww.twitter.com/usnavy.
needtoevacuate.”
Planning ahead for hurricanes and tropicalstormsiskeytothesafetyandsecurityof youandyourfamily.
To determine which flood zone you live in, visit https://www.vaemergency.gov/ know-your-zone/. Please check your zone each year and make sure you have the most recentinformation
Now that you know how to identify your flood zone, do you have an evacuation plan foryourfamilyandpets?Doyouknowwhat to include in an emergency kit for not only your family but pets too? If not here are somehelpfulwebsites:
https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
https://www.ready.gov/pets
https://www.noaa.gov/hurricane-prep
https://www.weather.gov/wrn/
hurricane-evacuation
https://www.ready.navy.mil
Do you have an emergency kit? Here is a list of quick essentials to get you started: tarps and duct tape, non-perishable food and bottled water (enough for up to 7-days per person/pet), medications, First-Aid kit, flashlights (new batteries), light sticks, weather radio, and money. Why money? If the power is out, stores are going to be cash onlyandtheATMswillbeunavailable
Power outages can happen with a thunderstorm or any severe weather You may onlylosepowerforafewhours,oritcouldbe
AlexanderGamble U.S. Naval Community College
QUANTICO Va U.S.NavalCommunity College in partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, began its first classes for the Associate of Science in AviationMaintenanceMay29,2023
Thisisthefirstassociatedegreeprogram offered by USNCC in consortium with ERAU which provides active duty enlisted Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen an opportunity to earn a naval-relevant associatedegree.
“OurSailors,Marines,andCoastGuardsmen are experts at the aircraft they maintain,” said USNCC’s President Randi R. Cosentino,Ed.D “Thisprogramisdesigned
to develop the critical thinking skills of our expert maintainers and help them understand the bigger picture of the national defense strategy and tri-service maritime strategy.”
The USNCC’s consortium model of education means USNCC teaches the fivecourse, 15-credit Naval Studies Certificate courseswhilethepartnerinstitutionteaches therestofthecoursesthatmakeuptheassociate degree. This allows the naval services to have a flexible, scalable model of education to meet the needs of the services while providingaqualityeducationtotheSailors Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who earn theirdegreethroughtheconsortium.
“The Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance degree offers a broad understandingofpublicandcivilaviationmainte-
nanceincludinggeneralpractices,airframe, powerplant, and the safety culture of aviationtoanyonewithaninterestinmechanical or technical disciplines,” said John Watret Ph.D. chancellor for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide Campus “ThisbroadunderstandingwillhelpUSNCC graduates progress through their military careers and also assist them when transitioning to civilian careers The outlook for aviationtechniciansisstrongandforecasted tobecomestronger.”
The Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance has the Naval Studies Certificate embedded into the program, along with the ERAU Part 65 Certificate which helps prepare aviation maintainers for the airframeandpowerplantlicenseexam.
“Having a more well-rounded aviation
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maintenance team means our aircraft have moreuptime,”saidtheUSNCC’scommand seniorenlistedleader,Sgt.Maj.MikeHensley who previously led Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 29 “When our service membersbetterunderstandthe‘why’ofthe mission, they are going to put more effort into the ‘what and the ‘how.’ This gives our moreeducatedworkforceanadvantageover ouradversaries.”
The United States Naval Community Collegeistheofficialcommunitycollegefor theNavy,MarineCorps,andCoastGuard To getmoreinformationabouttheUSNCC,go towww.usncc.edu.ClickontheInquireNow link to learn how to be a part of the USNCC PilotIIprogram.
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NavalMobile Construction Battalion5 returns home Aftermonths ofserving overseas,Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5 finally returns home.Familyandfriends counted down the days,and at last,thewait is over.
PageB3
ByNAVCENTPublicAffairs
U.S. NavalForces Central Command /U.S.5th Fleet
STRAIT OF HORMUZ— United States and United Kingdom RoyalNavyforces respondedtoadistresscallfromamerchant vesseltransitingtheStraitofHormuz,June 4, as Iranianfast-attack boats harassed the commercial ship
The internationally flagged merchant vessel made aradio distress call at 4:56 p.m.localtimewhiletransitingthenarrow strait. The civilian crew reportedthree fast-attack craft with armed personnel approached and followedthe merchant vessel at close distance.The fast-attacked craftwereassessed to be from the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary GuardCorpsNavy.
U.S. Navy guided-missiledestroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74)and UK RoyalNavyfrigate HMS Lancaster (F 229) both received the distress call, and Lancaster launcheda helicopter to provide surveillance.U.S.5th Fleet also directed aP-8APoseidon maritime patrol aircraft to monitor the scene Thesituationdeescalatedapproximately an hour later when the merchant vessel
confirmed the fast-attack craft departed the scene.The merchant ship continued transiting the Strait of Hormuz without further incident. U.S. 5thFleet remains vigilant and is bolstering defense around the keystrait with partners to enhance regional maritime security and stability
NineteenNATOAllies,one NATOpartner nation, 50 ships,morethan 45 aircraft, and approximately 6,000 personnel kicked off the 52nditeration of Baltic Operations 2023(BALTOPS 23) today in Tallinn, Estonia,June4,2023.
This premier maritime-focused annual exerciseintheBalticRegiontakesplaceJune 4-16 andprovides aunique training opportunitytostrengthenthecombinedresponse capabilitycriticaltopreservingthefreedom ofnavigationandsecurityintheBalticSea
“Fresh from the completion of exercise FormidableShield23, and concurrent with GeraldR.FordCarrier StrikeGroup operations in the North Atlantic, BALTOPS 23 commences as atangible indication of commitment to collective defensecapabilityacross theNATOAlliance.Wecontinue tomeetthesecuritychallengesoftoday,and preparefor tomorrow,through interoperability and seamless integrationinreal world operations.Rising above these challenges takes teamwork and trust,”said Vice Adm. Thomas Ishee,commander, NavalStriking and Support Forces NATO (STRIKFORNATO) and U.S. Sixth Fleet.
“Also,wewelcome Finland’sparticipation in BALTOPS as aNATOAlly for the first timein52yearsofBALTOPShistory,which
reflectsourdedicationtoimprovingsecurity andstabilityinEurope.”
Participatingnations includeBelgium, Canada,Denmark,Estonia,Finland,France, Germany,Italy,Latvia,Lithuania,theNetherlands,Norway,Poland,Portugal,Romania, Spain, Sweden, Türkiye,the UnitedKingdom,andtheUnitedStates
Of note,though Finland has routinely participated in pastiterations,this year marksthefirsttimeFinlandwillparticipate in the exercise as amemberofthe NATO Alliance.BALTOPS remains an alliance provingground, andisvital forhoningthe leadingedgeofcombinedinteroperability with ally in partner nations, in and around theBalticSea These countries willexercise amyriad of capabilities,demonstrating the inherent flexibility of maritime forces.Exercise scenarios include amphibious,gunnery anti-submarine,air defense,and mine clearanceoperations,aswell as explosive ordnancedisposal, unmanned underwater andsurface vehicle exercises,and medical responses
While the exercise is led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa andU.S.Sixth Fleet (NAVEUR-NAVAF/SIXTHFLT), it will be command-and-controlled by STRIKFORNATO, headquartered in Oeiras,Portugal; after STRIKFORNATOjustcompleted Formidable Shield 23,which concluded
on May26. STRIKFORNATO’sheadquarterswillhostalargemultinationalcoalition of liaison officers from each participating nation,working together and bringing unique personal and nationalstrengths to theexercise’scontrolhub
Rear Adm. James Morley,STRIKFORNATOdeputycommander,willcommand theexercisecontrolgroup “BALTOPS remainsthe mostsignificant annual exercise in the Baltic Sea and is atremendousopportunity for allied and partner nations to train together —building trust across theair,land, and seaforces while improving interoperability,” said Morley.“Thisyear’sBALTOPSisnoexceptionaswecontinuebuildingourlistoffirsts includingusing U.S. logistics capability to reloadadummymissileonaDanish frigate onBornholmIsland;integratingunmanned surfacevehiclestoconductpersonnelrecovery& medical transfers; and amorerobust incorporation of Allied chaplaincy into the scenariotospiritually care for or most important assets,our people.Thousands of hourshavegone into creating an exercise thatnot only buildsthe tactical skillsofall participantsbut alsoserves to assurethose in the region that NATOstandsready to defend.”
Thisyear’s exercise features,for the first time,robusttraining in personnel recovery using unmanned surfacevehicles.Another
enhancement to BALTOPS23 is thecollaboration of sixteen chaplains representing three different faith/lifestance traditions from eight participating nations.Their focusistopromotethestrengthofspiritthat enables Sailors and Marinestoaccomplish themission withhonor.These additions along with others underwater and space domain, willbuild on lastyear’s BALTOPS 2022scenariostorylines,includingtheintegrationoftheNATOSpaceCenterforspace domainscenarios
Forover80years,NAVEUR-NAVAF forged strategic relationships with our AlliesandPartners,leveragingafoundation of shared values to preservesecurity and stability
HeadquarteredinNaples,Italy,NAVEURNAVAFoperatesU.S.navalforcesintheU.S. EuropeanCommand(USEUCOM)andU.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility.SIXTHFLTispermanently assignedtoNAVEUR-NAVAF,andemploys maritimeforces throughthe full spectrum ofjointandnavaloperations.
STRIKFORNATO, headquartered in Oeiras,Portugal, is Supreme Allied Commander Europe’s (SACEUR) premier, rapidly deployable and flexible,maritime powerprojection Headquarters,capable of planning and executingfullspectrum joint maritimeoperations.
STRAITOFHORMUZ (June 4,2023)Ascreenshotofsurveillancefootage from aU.S.NavyP-8APoseidon maritime patrol aircraftshowing three Iranian fast-attackcraftapproaching an internationallyflagged merchantvessel transiting the Strait ofHormuz,June 4,2023.(U.S.NAVYPHOTO)NAVALBASE GUAM (June 1,2023) - Cmdr AlexanderFranz,right,prepares to relieve Cmdr Robert McDowell,left,asJefferson City’s commanding officerduring a change ofcommand ceremonyforthe LosAngeles-class fast-attacksubmarine USSJefferson City(SSN 759)June 1 at Naval Base
Guam.Jefferson Cityis one ofmultiple submarines assigned to Commander Submarine Squadron (SUBRON) 15 and is capable ofsupporting
ByPettyOfficer3rdClassJacobBrown
Commander Submarine Squadron 15
NAVAL BASE GUAM The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS JeffersonCity(SSN759)heldachangeofcommand ceremonyatNavalBaseGuam,June1.
Cmdr Alexander Franz relieved Cmdr Robert McDowell as Jefferson City’s commandingofficerduringtheceremony.
“In the last two-and-a-half years we have exceeded my loftiest expectations” said McDowell.“Wehaveconsistentlyperformed above fleet average on inspections and deployed through the Western Pacific for missionsvitaltonationalsecurity Wedeliver performance.”
Capt. Carl Trask, commander Submarine Squadron (CSS) 15 offered his congratulations and admiration for Jefferson City’s
accomplishments under McDowell’s leadership “I’m proud, inspired and grateful for the qualityandlegacyofyourunflinchingleadership,”saidTrask.“Youwererunnerupforthe StockdaleLeadershipAward,yourcrewwas awardedtheArleighBurkeFleettrophy,and most of all, the success of your crew are all testamentstothequalityofyourcommand.”
During McDowell’s tenure, Jefferson City successfully completed deployments in the Western Pacific and navigated a homeport shiftfromPearlHarbor,HawaiitoGuam.
During the ceremony, McDowell thanked thesubmarinetenderUSSEmoryS.Land(AS 39),CSS-15,andtheNavalSubmarineTrainingCenterPacificDetachmentfortheirroles in successfully supporting Jefferson City’s missioncycles allowingthemtoremainoperationalandmission-ready
Jefferson City is one of several Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines assigned to Commander,SubmarineSquadron(CSS)15, which is located at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam. The squadron staff is responsible for providing training, material and personnel readiness support to these commands. Also based out of Naval Base Guam are submarine tenders USS Frank Cable (AS 40) and USSEmoryS.Land(AS39).Thesubmarines andtendersaremaintainedaspartoftheU.S. Navy’s forward-deployed submarine force and are readily capable of meeting global operationalrequirements
FormorenewsfromCommander,Submarine Squadron 15, visit our official CSS-15 websiteathttp://www.csp.navy.mil/css15and our official Facebook page at https://www facebook.com/SubmarineSquadron15/
ByKurtVanSlooten
Center For Information Warfare
Training
PENSACOLA, Fla. The PensacolaNavycommunitycelebratedthe81stBattleofMidway Commemoration where retired
Rear Adm. Samuel Cox, director of the Naval History and Heritage Command (NHHC) served as the guest speaker at the National Naval Aviation Museum on Naval Aviation Station Pensacola, June 2, 2023
Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, commander, Naval Education TrainingCommand,openedthe CenterforInformationWarfare
Training (CIWT) hosted event by remarking that it was an ideal day and an ideal location to commemorate the Battle of Midway and those who served in it.
“It is quite fitting that the information professionals at CIWT spearheaded the efforts tomakethisceremonyhappen,” said Garvin “With the help of navalcryptanalysts,theirability tointerceptenemymessage the United States was able to bring the fight, to the Imperial Japanese Navy.”
Garvin continued, “Today, to
betterprepareourselves should we be called to serve in such a capacity once again, it is imperative that we draw on the past bravery and perseverance of thosewhofoughtforournation. Whenconflictariseswemustbe willing to mirror or exceed the level of courage displayed from June 4 to June 7 1942 Let us never forget the sacrifices made bythosewhoservedattheBattle of Midway and reflect on ways to cultivate the legacy of those valiant heroes in the modern battlespace.”
“The Battle of Midway was one of the most decisive battles in all of military history, and the turning point of the war in the Pacific,” said Cox. “It’s important for us to remember because it was won by Navy personnel who held the line during the darkest days of World War II.”
Cox began a vivid description of the events that happened during the Battle of Midway by saying, “The commander’s estimate of the situation for the Japanese prior to the Battle of Midway stated that the enemy, us, lacks the will to fight. That was their fundamentally fatal assumption from the get go in this whole battle.”
Cox said that the Battle of Midway is sometimes referred to as a miracle but it wasn’t. Fundamentally, the huge Japanese naval force was gathered with the object of drawing out the American carriers and sinking them once and for all. This effort was based on operational deception with Admiral Yamamoto commander in chief of their combined fleet, working from a bad plan based on faulty intelligence “Whereas Admiral Chester Nimitz, commander in chief of thePacificFleet,hadagoodplan that was based on probably the best intelligence that anyone ever had prior to that actual battle,” said Cox “But the battle was actually decided by four Japanese aircraft carriers with 248 aircraft against three U.S. aircraft carriers and an island with a total of 320 aircraft.”
Cox went on to describe the incredibly important intelligence efforts that went into shaping the outcome of the battle However, ultimately he asserted that the battle was not be won by the intelligence, but by the courage and bravery of the pilots who had to face an incredibly capable and deter-
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
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mined adversary Cox said he hopes that everyday people take away from eventsliketheBattleofMidway commemoration is what their Navy has done to preserve the freedom that all of us take for granted,andtheknowledgethat it came at a great cost.
CIWT’s Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Bryant saidtheywereproudtohostthe commemoration, and offered a specialthankstoCoxforcoming down to Pensacola to serve as the guest speaker and to Garvin for attending and providing the opening remarks With four schoolhouse commands two detachments andtrainingsitesthroughoutthe UnitedStatesandJapan,Center for Information Warfare Training trains over 26,000 students every year, delivering trained informationwarfareprofessionalstotheNavyandjointservices CenterforInformationWarfare Training also offers more than 200 courses for cryptologic technicians intelligencespecialists information systems technicians,electronicstechnicians, and officers in the information warfare community
ByPublicAffairsOffice
Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport
NEWPORT, R.I. Naval Undersea WarfareCenter(NUWC)DivisionNewport communications staff recently won highly competitive Excellence in Navy Public Affairsawardsrecognizingexceptionalwork in 2022 by individuals and communication teamsthroughouttheNavy
Division Newport’s Public Affairs team in the Corporate Communications Division,ledbydirectorJeffreyPrater,ofPortsmouth, Rhode Island, and deputy director Carly Diette, of East Greenwich, Rhode Island, won a third place unit award in the Web-Based Informational Campaign category Kerri Spero, a resident of Middletown, Rhode Island, who is a visual information specialist in the Visual Information Branch oftheCorporateCommunicationsDivision, won a second place individual award in the GraphicDesign-DigitalArtcategory
The Public Affairs team won the unit award for the “Workforce Profiles” campaign which highlighted employee-related content on Division Newport’s social mediapages FacebookandLinkedIn.
During 2022, more than 75 posts directly related to an employee’s role and achievements were made to the pages and accounted for approximately 20% of the command’s content on Facebook content and40%ofcontentonLinkedIn.
Allcommunicationseffortsweredesigned to highlight an employee’s prominent and steadfast role in supporting the U.S. Navy’s undersea warfare mission and Division Newport’s reputation for technical excellenceinresearch,development,test,evaluation,engineeringandfleetsupport Strategic messaging included original content on Facebook and LinkedIn, story and photo links to the external website, and external press releases sent to a local and national medialist.
Spero won an individual award for digitalartworkthatfeatured“striking”images of underwater weapons and a submarine used in a workforce recruitment brochure titled, “Set Your Course Into the Future.
Spero began her career in 2002 as a visualinformationspecialistintheU.S.Air ForceatKadenaAirForceBaseinOkinawa, Japan. In 2007, she separated from active duty and enlisted in the Massachusetts Air National Guard as a photojournalist. Hired at Division Newport in 2016, Spero provides a variety of graphics and imaging services for all levels of the command, including original visual treatments for printed publications, electronic display or exhibits, and the visual aspects of video productions These communication products helped to keep stakeholders and the workforce informed about Division Newport people actions and the organization’s contributions to the U.S. Navy mission. This is the fourth award for the Public Affairs Office in four years and the fourth media award for Spero in the past three years
Both awards were announced by U.S. Navy administration on April 17 More information can be found here: https://
navadmin-viewer.github.io/?type=NAVADMIN&year=2021&number=77
NUWC Newport is the oldest warfare center in the country tracing its heritage to the Naval Torpedo Station established on Goat Island in Newport Harbor in 1869 Commanded by Capt Chad Hennings, NUWC Newport maintains major detachments in West Palm Beach, Florida, and Andros Island in the Bahamas, as well as test facilities at Seneca Lake and Fisher’s Island, New York, Leesburg, Florida and Dodge Pond, Connecticut.
Joinourteam!NUWCDivisionNewport, one of the 20 largest employers in Rhode Island, employs a diverse, highly trained, educated, and skilled workforce We are continuously looking for engineers, scientists, and other STEM professionals, as well as talented business, finance, logistics and other support experts who wish to be at the forefront of undersea research and development. Please connect with NUWC Division Newport Recruiting at this site- https://www.navsea.navy.mil/ Home/Warfare-Centers/NUWC-Newport/Career-Opportunities/ and follow us on LinkedIn @NUWC-Newport and on Facebook @NUWCNewport.
ByOscarGarcia
Naval Construction Group One
After months of serving overseas, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB-5) finally returns home Family and friends counted down the days, and at last, the wait is over. Every courageous act, every step taken with unwavering commitment, has brought them to this moment. As they touchdownonNavalBaseVenturaCounty, we remember the sacrifices made and the bondsforged.
These heroes have held up the sky for us their determination unwavering their spiritsundying Theircouragehasbeenour inspiration, their service, our pride Today, let’s wrap them in the warmth of our gratitude,let’swelcomethembackintotheheart ofourcommunity,theirhome
To our Sailors, welcome back! We are overjoyed to see you back safely Your resilience and dedication are the true embodiment of our country’s spirit As you reunite with your families and loved ones, may you feelthedepthofourappreciation. Every homecoming is a testament to the strength of our military family. We are thrilledtohaveyouback!
Home from a sixmonth deployment to the Indo-Pacific region.NMCB-5 is homeported out of Port Hueneme,Californiawhere
ByLt.Cmdr.SamuelBoyle
Commander Submarine Group Seven
YOKOSUKA Japan Rear Adm. Chris Cavanaugh relieved Rear Adm. Rick Seif as Commander, Submarine Group (CSG) 7, which also serves as Task Force 54, and Task Force 74, during a ceremony at Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, June 2.
Vice Adm. Karl Thomas, commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, presided over the change of command ceremony and presented Seif with the Legion of Merit.
“You’ve brought foreign subs alongside your tenders both in Guam and in foreign ports,youwereinstrumentalintheAUKUS talksandadvancingthediscussionsregarding the future Australian nuclear Submarine Force,” said Thomas “Your subs have
participated in many exercises, and you’ve managedafleetofspecialmissionshipsthat provide us tremendous situational awareness. The accomplishments are many and broad.Ihavesuchahealthyrespectforthe way the team met mission day in and day out—well done on so many levels.”
Seif,anativeofPittsburgh,Pennsylvania, previously served as commander, Undersea Warfare Development Center prior to taking command of CSG 7 April 13, 2022.
On behalf of Adm. Sakai Ryo, chief of staff Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) Vice Adm. Tawara Tateki, Commander, Fleet Submarine Force, JMSDF,alsopresentedaletterofcommendationanda1stGradeDefenseCooperation Medal to Rear Adm. Seif, in honor of his dedication to advancing interchangeability between the Japanese and U.S. subma-
rine forces
“It has been the greatest honor of my career to work alongside this forward-deployedteamofprofessionalsandourhighly capablealliesandpartnersintheundersea domain, saidSeif “TheUS-Japanalliance is stronger than ever, and I know that Rear Adm.Cavanaughwillcontinuetogrowour relationshipandthecombinedreadinessof our undersea forces.”
Seif will report to Hawaii for his next assignment as Commander, Submarine Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Prior to receiving orders to CSG 7, Cavanaugh, a Convoy, Ohio native, previously servedasDirector,MaritimeHeadquarters and Sustainment, U.S. Pacific Fleet.
“I’m honored to join this high-performing team,” said Cavanaugh. “Let there be no doubt, our duty is warfighting readi-
ness We will accomplish that objective through teamwork within our headquarters assignedforces acrosstaskforces and with allies and partners.”
Cavanaugh is the 50th commander of CSG 7.
CSG 7 traces its history back to Capt. F.W. Scanland, who commanded Submarine Flotilla 7 from September 14, 1954 to January 13, 1955.
CSG7directsforward-deployed,combat capable forces across the full spectrum of underseawarfarethroughout the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. For more news from Commander, Submarine Group 7, visit www.csp.navy mil/csg7/
Commander Navy Recruiting Command
PORTLAND, Ore. It’s no secret that recruiting is an arduous duty While some Sailors volunteer to take on the task to improve their advancement opportunities,othersusetheopportunitytohoneand develop skills they didn’t previously have And still others use it as an opportunity to gohomeagain
ForPettyOfficer1stClassMikiaBollinger, recruiting seemed like a good next step in her career Bollinger joined the Navy out of Roseburg,Oregon,about190milesfromher current location at Navy Recruiting Station (NRS) Vancouver located in Washington state Making monthly trips home to see her parents is a perk of the job she was not expecting
When I first joined, I didn’t think there wereanyopportunitiestobenearhomeand IneverthoughtI’dgorecruiting,”Bollinger said.“Itrytogo[home]atleastonceamonth becauseastheRecruiterinCharge,whenmy guysareworking,I’mworking Butthefirst weekendofthemonthisalwaysanoffdayso I try to go see them. That way I won’t miss outonanyopportunities.”
Coming from the USS Lassen, Bollinger has worked hard to become more independent and how to handle things with little oversight. In recruiting, Sailors are assigned their high schools and zip codes after reporting to their station That much isstandard,butthereisnoformulaicwayto beingsuccessfulinrecruiting;itcomesfrom howeachSailoroperatesindependently.
“It’s up to you how you go about being successful,”Bollingersaid.
Inthebeginning,Bollingerhadtoleanon herleadershiptohelpherselltheNavyand push applicants forward Eventually, that changed.Shelearnedtoadaptdifferentways to handle different situations At the beginning of her career, Bollinger called herself timid but now is more comfortable talking topeople
Ever since finding her way in recruiting hersuccesseshavebeennumerous Shewas the FY23 2nd Quarter Senior Sailor of the Quarter, received her fifth Navy Achievementmedal,thirdGoldwreathandobtained
herRecruiterinCharge(RinC)qualification. Now,twoyearsintohertouratNRSVancouver, she is the RinC of one of the top-performing NTAG Portland large recruiting stations.
Being a RinC has been a vastly different experiencethanbeingaLeadingPettyOfficer at sea. An engineer at heart, Bollinger likes working with her hands and talked fondly of the day-to-day structure of being aboard ship knowing the daily routine At NRSVancouver,itisoftennotthatstraightforwardandisachallenge
“Inrecruitingyouhavetokeeptrackofall thesedifferentapplicantsanddifferentsituations, and medical and lots of other paperwork,” Bollinger said. “If you let any of that slipyou’renotgoingtomakegoal,you’renot going to be successful You have to be more on top of your ‘A’ game and be more organized.”
While being a recruiter has taught her new skills and allowed the Oregonian a chancetogohomeagain,ithasalsostrengthened her desire to help Sailors. Bollinger is attemptingtoconverttoNavyCounselor,so she can go back to the fleet and continue to shapelivesandcareers.
“I realized after doing this job that I like helping people,” Bollinger said “The best partofthisjobisgettingtohelppeoplemake achangeintheirlifeandIwanttohelpSailors.”
Navy Talent Acquisition Group Portland is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and operates 18 recruiting stations throughout California, Idaho, Nevada Oregon and Washington, covering more than 210,000 squaremiles NTAGPortlandisstaffedwith more than 170 Sailors and civilians whose mission is to recruit individuals who meet standards for Naval service. Follow NTAG Portland on Facebook and Instagram @ navyjobsportland.
Navy Recruiting Command consists of a commandheadquarters,twoNavyRecruitingRegionsand26NavyTalentAcquisition Groups that serve more than 815 recruiting stations across the world. Their combined goal is to attract the highest quality candidatestoassuretheongoingsuccessofAmerica’sNavy
2nd Class Zachary Giefer
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas
For the second time a Navy Sailor toInformationWarfareTrainingCommand (IWTC) Monterey Detachment Goodfellow, was awarded the Doolittle Scholarship allowing her the opportunity to pursue college full-time while completing her current tour.
TheU.S.AirForce’s17thTrainingGroup, in partnership with Angelo State University, awards the James H. Doolittle Scholarship to highly competitive instructors stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base
Cryptologic Technician Interpretive 1st Class Allison Schissler assigned to the Navy’s Goodfellow Detachment, was granted the opportunity to finish her associate’sdegreethankstotheDoolittleScholarship Program. The scholarship awards one military joint service member a total of $4,300 to cover tuition, fees, and books foronesemester atotalof15credithours Schissler was selected for the scholarship after competing against other joint service instructorsatGoodfellowinaformalboard.
Schisslerexpressedfeelingsofgratitude and excitement after receiving the Doolittle Scholarship
“I am incredibly honored to be awarded the Doolittle Scholarship,” said Schissler. “It means so much to me to have my dedicationtoeducationrecognizedinthisway. Teaching has always been my true calling and this scholarship will allow me to further enhance my skills and knowledge ultimately enabling me to make a positive impact on future generations of learners.”
Schissler,avaluedmemberoftheNavy’s Cryptologic Warfare community, has
continuously displayed a thirst for knowledgeandadesiretomakeapositiveimpact beyond her military duties While her role as a cryptologic technician interpretive entails crucial intelligence analysis and language interpretation, she has consistently pursued her passion for teaching The Doolittle Scholarship serves as a steppingstone towards realizing her dreams and furthering her educational journey
“CTI1 Schissler is an outstanding Sailor and instructor,” said Lt Cdr Nick Leyba, the detachment’s officer in charge “This was a well-deserved opportunity that she wasabletotakeadvantageof Notonlywas Schissler able to build up her own toolbox in academia and instructional methodologies; she brought that back as an instructor and curriculum developer to train her peers in those best practices IWTC Monterey Detachment Goodfellow prides itself on embodying a ‘Culture of Excellence’ and ensuring we provide the best joint service warriors to the fleet through ‘Ready Relevant Training.’ Programs like theDoolittleScholarshiparecriticalinthe innovation and strategic thinking necessary for the development of our warfighting team. With four schoolhouse commands, two detachments, and training sites throughout the United States and Japan, Center for Information Warfare Training trains over 26,000 students every year, deliveringtrainedinformationwarfareprofessionals to the Navy and joint services Center for Information Warfare Training also offers more than 200 courses for cryptologic technicians, intelligence specialists informationsystemstechnicians,electronicstechnicians,andofficersintheinformation warfare community
CryptologicTechnician Interpretive 1st ClassAllison Schissler,an instructorassigned to InformationWarfareTraining Command (IWTC) MontereyDetachment Goodfellow,was awarded the Doolittle Scholarship byU.S.AirForce’s 17thTraining Group in partnership withAngelo State University,allowing herthe opportunityto pursue college full-timewhile completing hercurrent tourat GoodfellowAirForce Base.(COURTESYPHOTO)
PressRelease
NORFOLK, Va The 47th Annual Norfolk Harborfest: Music Food & Maritime Festival returns to Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront Friday-Sunday,June9-11,2023.
America’s largest, longest-running, free maritime festival, Harborfest celebrates & encapsulatesalloftheuniqueelementsthat make Norfolk & Hampton Roads a historic maritime&Navalcommunity.Onbothland and sea, thrilling activities and live music takecenterstageatHarborfest,includingthe annualParadeofSailfeaturingtallships,one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, a mesmerizing drone show, interactivefamilygames&activities,Navyexhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods & beverages,national®ionalliveentertainment, andmuchmore.
ThefestivalisFREE&opentothepublic. For more information visit bit.ly/Harborfest2023.
FESTIVALHOURS
Friday,June9 Noon-11pm(Paradeof
Sailat12:00pm;DroneShowat9:30pm)
Saturday,June10 Noon-11pm (Fireworksat9:30pm)
Sunday,June11 10am-6pm
MUSICLINEUP Main Stage Friday, June 9 3:15pm Erin&theWildfire 6:00pm KendallStreetCompany 8:00pm TheAllmanBettsBand Main Stage Saturday, June 10 3:15pm TributetoTheBoathousewith Wonderlandwithspecialappearances fromDavidMiddletonandPaulJohnson fromWaxingPoetics
6:00pm Cracker 8:15pm MorrisDay&theTime Main Stage Sunday, June 11 2:00pm CodyChristianBand 4:30pm Parmalee Boathouse Stage Friday, June 9 2:45pm JuJuDrum 4:45pm NateSacks&theLifehacks
7:00pm TheGoldSauce
10:00pm LittKeys Boathouse Stage Saturday, June 10 1:00pm DustinFurlow
2:45pm AllenHudson&the Halfmoons 4:45pm BigAlStaggs&theJaJas
7:00pm ChongBand 10:00pm DJCanRock Boathouse Stage Sunday June 11 12:45pm BobbyBlackhatWalters
3:15pm BJGriffinBand
TALLSHIPS&THEPARADEOFSAIL
The spectacular Norfolk Harborfest ParadeofSail,presentedbyWVEC13News NowandunderthedirectionoftheVirginia Pilots Association, will enter the Downtown Norfolk Harbor on Friday, June 9 at approximately noon. Following tradition, this impressive fleet will include tall ships, Navy ships, Public Safety vessels, character vessels, sleek power cruisers, sailing craft, antique and classic wooden boats, military vessels, tugs and more! Thousands of onlookersstationedatvantagepointsalong the Elizabeth River will be able to witness this expansive fleet as it dances down the rivertowardsTownPointPark
Thefollowingisalistofvisitingtallships:
Pride of Baltimore II, Baltimore,
Maryland, LOA: 105’, Draft: 12’6”, Beam: 26’4”,RigHeight:107’
Gazela,Philadelphia,Pennsylvania,LOA: 150’,Draft:17’ Beam:26”,RigHeight:100’
USACE Survey Vessel EWELL Norfolk Virginia,LOA:61’4” Draft:3’4”
NOAABayHydroII,Solomons,Maryland, LOA:57 ,Beam:20
USS Gettysburg (CG 64), Norfolk, Virginia,LOA:567’,Draft:34’,Beam:55’
Godspeed,Jamestown,Virginia,LOA:74’, Draft:7’,Beam:17’,RigHeight:72’
Impossible Dream, LOA: 58’, Draft: 3.7’, Beam:27’ Kalmar Nyckel, Wilmington, Delaware LOA: 93’, Draft: 12’5”, Beam: 12’11”, Rig
Height:105’ American Rover, Norfolk, Virginia, LOA: 135’,Draft:9’,Beam:24’
Schooner Virginia, Norfolk, Virginia, LOA: 121’10”, Draft: 12’3”, Beam: 24’, Rig
Height:112’ USCGC Pompano: LOA: 88’ Beam: 20’; HomePort:Norfolk Virginia
USS Wisconsin, Norfolk, Virginia, LOA:
PressRelease
HAMPTONROADS,Va Ticketstothe
VirginiaSymphonyOrchestra’s2023Sensory-Friendly Concert are now on sale Join theVSOonJune10,2023,at11:30AMinthe Miller Studio at the Sandler Center for the PerformingArtsforthisinclusiveandexcitingevent
Thisconcertisdesignedtoallowindividualsontheautismspectrum,thosewhohave sensorysensitivitiesorareotherwiseneurodivergent to experience live symphonic music in ways that are comfortable and enjoyableinawelcomingenvironment
Thisuniqueeventfeaturesperformances by our Wind Ensemble, String Quartet, and Brass Quartet in the more intimate and comfortable setting of the Miller Room at the Sandler Center for Performing Arts
Board-certifiedmusictherapistsfromTidewater Music Therapy will lead activities includingdancing movingwithscarves,and playingsmallhandheldinstruments.Performance modifications, and resources such as noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, fidget spinners, and quiet spaces will be available.Thisfunprogramforindividualsof allagesandabilitieswilllastapproximately onehour
Ticketsforeachperformanceare$15each andarefullyrefundable Formoreinforma-
tionabouttheOpenDoorsSensory-Friendly ConcertSeries,ortopurchasetickets,please call757-892-6366orvisitvirginiasymphony. org.
(PHOTOCOURTESYOFNORFOLKFESTEVENTS)Pleasesubmiteventshere: www.militarynews.com/users/admin/calendar/event/
Pleasesubmitnewsandphotoshere: www.militarynews.com/norfolk-navy-flagship/submit_news/
PressRelease
NORFOLK Va Nauticus will open its first-ever themed environment for early learnersonFather’sDayweekend.
The2,800-square-footgalleryspace,entitled Aquaticus, takes children on a whimsicaljourneyunderthesea Guestswillspina ship’swheeltoactivatea“submerged”disco ballasthousandsofbeautifulsilverbubbles risetowardsthesurface Youngvisitorswill explore a fanciful ship floating high above their heads and walk through a seagrass forestafterdiscoveringanunderwatercave Aquaticus is the secondexhibit gallery to open as part of Nauticus’ transformational redesign and is set to make a splash this summer. In addition, Nauticus’ adjoining aquar-
Harborfest
from Page 1
887’3”,Draft:37’9”,Beam:108’2”
Ships will be open for public tours from approximately 3pm to 6pm on Friday, June 9 and from noon to 6pm on Saturday, June 10andSunday June11.Shiptoursarefree& opentothepublic Visitorsarerequestedto wearflatshoesandbeabletomanagewalking up and down access ramps and ladders Strollers must be left on the dock Strollers are not permitted on board the ship Entry andExitRampsarenotequippedtoaccommodatewheelchairs,walkers,orothertypes of mobility equipment requiring a flat and solid surface or hard hand rails (aside from theImpossibleDream).
For boaters all docking on the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront is on a reservationbasisonly.DockingintheHospitalPoint Anchorage in the Elizabeth River across fromTownPointParkwillbefreeofcharge and available on a first-come, first-served basis Personalwatercraftsarepermittedto followtheParadeofSailintotheDowntown Norfolk Harbor under the direction of U.S. CoastGuard
WATEREVENTS
Friday, June 9 12:00pm ParadeofSail 1:30pm Emergency Response Vessel
BoatDemo 2:30pm Search and Rescue Demo
UnitedStatesCoastGuard 3:00pm-6:00pm Public Visitation
aboardTallShips&CharacterVessels
9:30pm DroneShow
Saturday, June 10 12:00pm-6:00pm Public Visitation
aboardTallShips&CharacterVessels
12:00pm Sail Nauticus Middle School
AcademyGraduationCelebrationSail
1:30pm Search and Rescue Demo
UnitedStatesCoastGuard 4:30pm TugMuster 9:30pm Fireworks
Sunday, June 11 12:00pm-6:00pm Public Visitation
aboardTallShips&CharacterVessels
12:30pm SailNauticusMembershipSail
About 2:30pm UltimateBuild-A-BoatRace
Norfolk Harborfest Choreographed
Drone Show: Produced by Image EngineeringfromBaltimore,Maryland,the HarborfestDroneShowisthehighestquality drone show in the region. Be prepared as the sky is filled with the highest quality imagery, data and cutting-edge UAV technology synchronized to a nautical musical playlist. The show is scheduled for Friday nightat9:30pmandwillbeperformedover theElizabethRiver.
Norfolk Harborfest Fireworks
Spectacular: The Norfolk Harborfest FireworksSpectacular,presentedbyWAVY
TV 10 and produced by Pyro Shows of Tennessee, is one of the largest waterfront pyrotechnics shows on the East Coast Be prepared for the unexpected as the sky is filled with an explosive display of light synchronized to a booming musical score throughoutTownPointPark.TheFireworks showisscheduledforSaturdaynightat9:30 pmandwillbefiredfromafloatingplatform ontheElizabethRiver.
Ultimate Build-A-Boat Contest & Race: The very popular and zany Ultimate
iumwillfeatureallnewfish,newtanks,and educational content. Entitled Our Nautical Neighbors, the newly-designed aquarium showcases local fish species found in the ElizabethRiverandChesapeakeBay.
“Aquaticusisarealfirstforus,”saidNauticus President and CEO, Stephen Kirkland. “It’spurposefullydesignedtobeenjoyedby multi-generationalfamiliesandit’sjustplain fun.ItbringsoutmyinnerWillyWonka.”
Aquaticusisthesecondpermanentgallery spacetoopenaspartoftheReimagineNauticusproject a$21.5milliontransformationof the maritime discovery center The entire redesign project will be completed in 2024 includingfivestate-of-the-artexhibitgalleries,newaquariumfeatures,aSTEMDiscovery Lab, and a refreshed entrance pavilion. This represents the largest enhancement
and investment in Nauticus since it opened in1994.
AquaticusisnamedinmemoryofHoward &NancySpainhour.Nauticusmemberswill befirsttoexperiencethenewexhibitsduring member-onlyhoursonThursday,June15th and Friday, June 16th from 10AM - 5PM.
Aquaticus will open to the general public on Saturday, June 17th at 10AM. Nauticus admissionforopeningweekend(617and6⁄18) willbeonly$5perperson!Timedticketsare required for entry and must be purchased onlineatwwwnauticus.org.
For more information on Nauticus’ redesignproject,includingdetaileddescriptions of each gallery space, or for more informationonhowtosupporttheReimagineNauticusCampaign,pleasevisithttps://nauticus org/reimagine-nauticus/.
than a ride it ’s animmersive4D experience from starttofinish.
The Back Bay Mermaid Entertainment: Splash into your wildest dreams withthisoncein alifetimeopportunitytowitness a mythical mermaid!Listen to tales from the deep, learn how to protect their homes, and get thebesttipsfora life at sea. Photo opportunitiesand hidden treasures will be available throughout theday.
About Nauticus: Nauticus is a maritime discovery center located along the waterfront in downtown, Norfolk, VA offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages. Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming, Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailing center, and Schooner Virginiato tell the story of the maritime environment, industry,andthemilitary NauticusFoundationisthenonprofit,501©3thatsupportsthe missionandactivitiesofNauticus Nauticus’ missionistobenefitthecommunitythrough education,impactfulexperiences andsharing access to maritime resources. For more information,visitwwwnauticus.org
(Roasted Nuts), Crab Boss (Mac & Cheese Crab, Fish, Chicken), Deep Fried (Funnel Cake, Kettle Corn & Lemonade), Granby Bistro (Kabobs & Gyros), Hammerheads (Bourbon Chicken, Beignets & Shrimp n’ Grits), Hawaiian Sno (Italian Ice), Jadean’s Smokin’ BBQ (Brisket & Smoked Chicken), Jungle Juice (Smoothies), Old Style Foods (Lemonade & Roasted Corn), Pitt Country BBQ(EastCarolinaBBQ,Chicken&Brisket), PlazaDelSol(StreetTacos),Pollard’s(Fried Chicken & Gizzards), Real Cajun Cookin’ (Jambalaya & Gumbo), Rita’s (Italian Ice), Sherri’s (Crabcakes), Spuds (Cheesesteaks & Bloomin’ Onion), Strawberry Street (NashvilleHotChicken),TDBConcessions (Dole Whip), Veggie Soul Planet (Seafood), Yolees’G-Dawgz(HotDogs)
Virginia Craft Beer & Wine Garden: Located in TowneBank Fountain Park next toWatersideDistrict,theVirginiaCraftBeer & Wine Garden showcases a wide variety of Made-In-Virginia beer and wine Relax in the garden & enjoy your beverage while enjoying live music from the Boathouse Stage.
Build-A-BoatChallengebeginsonSaturday, June 10, when teams construct boats from scratch in various engineering and decorative designs in the hope that their design will survive the test of Sunday’s Ultimate Build-A- Boat Race Sunday, June 11 at 2:30pm, the competing teams place their boats, and boating skills to the test with an all-outracetothefinishline!Thisnail-biting eventisonenottobemissed!
LANDEVENTS
NEW! Boathouse Tribute Exhibit: JoinusaswepaytributetooneofNorfolk’s iconic and beloved music venues in what would have been the 40thanniversary of its opening. Performers the likes of Jay-Z, TheRedHotChiliPeppers,NOFXandThe Violent Femmes all performed at the original Boathouse is Norfolk. Reminisce on the goldenageoflivemusicinNorfolkthrough memorabilia, original merchandise and a photo and video gallery displaying content capturedatthehistoricvenue.
NEW!BoathouseTributeSilentDisco: New this year at Harborfest is an outdoor Festival Silent Disco! Grab a set of headphones and relive the golden days or jamto today’s top hits at this new festival feature. Participants will dance to tunes provided by our silent disco DJ with cool lights and specialeffects
NEW! The Mighty Mike Show: Enjoy a strongman show like you’ve never seen before! Witness Mighty Mike juggle bowling balls and sledgehammers, tear packs of cards,andbendpoundsofmetal Ifhiswitty jokes don’t make you laugh, his 1920’s style bathingsuitsurewill.
NEW! The Red Trouser Show: Being friends since the first grade this dynamic duo now travels the world together street performing Their amazing acrobatics and useoffireissuretodrawabigcrowd!
NEW! The Loose Cannon Pirate Company: Walk the plank into history by witnessing the swashbuckling tales of goldenagepirates Watchyourheadyelandlubbers and cover your ears while cannon ballsfly Grabyourmateysandgetreadyset sailonyournextvoyage!
NEW! U.S. Airforce Shadow Strike: Shadow Strike puts people in the middle of a high- stakes, high-octane Air Force rescuemission.Featuringa3Dfilm,motion theaterseats,sensoryeffectsand360-degree surround sound, this mobile tour is more
The Butterfly & Ladybug Experience: Spreadyourwingsatthislivewalk-through butterfly exhibit where you can interact, feedandlearnaboutthemandwhytheyare so important. In addition, a new inflatable ladybug experience will be available this year A great activity for all ages, the exhibit was designed for wheelchair and stroller accessibility
Splash City Golf: Make a splash at this uniquepop-updrivingrangeinTownPoint Park!Participantswilltakeaimatafloating green in the Elizabeth River with golf balls thataremadefromrecycledoystershells.
Arts & Crafts with Chrystal: Feeling artsy?SwingbyArts&CraftswithChrystal to create handmade pieces of art to take home!Thisinteractiveworkshopwillallow you to create nautical themed artwork fun forthewholefamily.
Radio Harborfest: Broadcasting live at Norfolk Harborfest, local radio celebrity Paul Shugrue of WHRV hosts “Radio Harborfest” keeping you updated on the latest festival happenings including weather,traffic,entertainmentandanything else Norfolk Harborfest throughout the weekend.
Nauticus:Nauticusisamaritimediscovery center located along the waterfront in downtown Norfolk offering a unique form of experiential learning for all ages
Through interactive exhibits and STEM to STERN programming Nauticus uses the museum, Battleship Wisconsin, sailingcenter,andSchoonerVirginiatotellthe story of the maritime environment, industry,andthemilitary Formoreinformation, visit Nautics.org
Waterside District: Waterside District features the best of national, regional and local restaurants offers live music, and more. Located in the heart of the central business district and adjacent to the City of Norfolk’sworld-classwaterfrontandfestival site, Waterside District is a central gatheringplaceforlocalresidentsandvisitorsand serves as the official afterparty destination for Harborfest For more information, visit WatersideDistrict.com.
FOOD&BEVERAGE
The Tastes of Harborfest: Sample a widevarietyofworldcuisinesatHarborfest! This year’s food vendors (listed alphabetically) include: Ben & Jerry’s (Ice Cream), Chan’s (Chicken on a Stick), Cinnaroast
NEW!ZollVineyards:Gloucestercounty’sfirstwineryisbestknownfortheirexquisite food and wine pairings They provide farmtotableingredientsthatissuretomake yourmouthwater!Theywillbejoiningusat this year’s Harborfest where they will sell wineandgourmetpickles.
SHOPPING The Harborfest Marketplace: Experience a shopping experience unlike any other as dozens of local and regional artisans retailers crafters designers and artistsmakeuptheHarborfestMarketplace This year’s marketplace (listed alphabetically)includes:AllBiz(Women’sApparel), Ashwear (Women’s Apparel), Caddy Can (Mobile waste can for Boats, Cars, ATVs, Etc.), Celebrate the Chesapeake NWK Style(OysterJewelry),ChangingFacesand Spaces (Face Painter), Coastin’ (Apparel), Emerson’s (Cigars), Exclusively Coastal (Coastal Gifts & Home Décor), Hip Klips (Mini Purses & Pocketbooks) Jones Art Gallery (Paintings), Kaman’s Art Shoppes (Caricature Drawings), McCollum (Hats), Mom & Pops Maple (Fresh Maple Products),MurphsThisandThat(Nautical Jewelry), Nuland Hot Stuff (Premium Hot Sauces), Peanut City Candle Co (Soy Candles & Wax Melts), Plank (Eyewear), ShoreSmokeSeasonings(BBQSeasoning), Soco Swings (Swinging Chairs), Sons of Vikings (Viking Hats, Games, & Apparel), Stephanie Foley Designs (Handmade Magnets&Trinkets),SunshineHandicrafts (NativeApparel),Trails&Shores(VirginiaInspired Apparel)
Harborfest Gift Shop: Norfolk Harborfest souvenir merchandise is available at all on-site Festival Gift Shops The Norfolk Harborfest merchandise line, designed by Peacefrogs, offers a variety of pieces designed to suit a variety of tastes From official t-shirts to warm fleece for coolevenings,theNorfolkHarborfestretail line offers visitors a high level of comfort and quality as well as the chance to bring a pieceofNorfolkHarborfesthome.Theofficial2023NorfolkHarborfestposterwillalso be available for purchase at the Harborfest GiftShop
Visit Festevents.org or call 757-441-2345 for regular updates on the 2023 Norfolk Harborfest
FamilyFeatures&NationalHeart,Lung,andBloodInstitute
As you plan your summer fun, think also about adopting healthy habits that can help keep your blood pressure under control. When your blood pressure is consistently high - a condition called hypertension - blood flows through arteries at higher-than-normal pressures This can cause serious health problems not just for your heart, but also for your blood vessels, kidneys, eyes and brain.
Hypertension affects women and men of all ages but making small lifestyle changes can go a long way toward prevention. Start with updating your summer menu with delicious, hearthealthy recipes like Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken.
Following a heart-healthy eating plan, such as the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), which emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, low-fat dairy and healthy oils, can help keep your blood pressure in a healthy range
Developed through research by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), DASH focuses on reducing sodium and limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, including fatty meats, full-fat dairy and tropical oils
Along with adding healthy recipes to your summer menu, NHLBI’s The Heart Truth program encourages these healthy habits that can help you control blood pressure:
Move more: Aim for at least 150 minutes (2 ½ hours) of physical activity each week. Try keeping yourself on pace each week by shooting for 30 daily minutes of activity over five days
Aim for a healthy weight: Research shows adults with overweight and obesity can lower their blood pressure by losing just 3-5% of their weight. Ask a friend or family member to join a weight loss program with you; social support can help you both stay motivated.
Manage stress: Reduce stress - which can increase blood pressure - with meditation, relaxing activities or support from a counselor or online group
Quit smoking: Smoking damages your heart and blood vessels Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or find other resources available online
Get your summer off to a heart-healthy start by talking to your health care provider about your blood pressure numbers and what they mean To learn more about heart health and blood pressure, visit hearttruth.gov and find DASH-friendly recipes at healthyeating.nhlbi.nih.gov.
Hawaiian Huli Huli Chicken
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
12ouncesboneless,skinlesschickenbreast (about2largebreasts),cutinto1-inchcubes(about24cubes)
1cupfreshpineapple,diced(about24pieces)
8woodenskewers(6incheseach),soakedinwater
Sauce:
2tablespoonsketchup
2tablespoonslightsoysauce
2tablespoonshoney
2teaspoonsorangejuice
1teaspoongarlic(about1clove),minced
1teaspoonginger,minced
Tomakesauce:Combineketchup,soysauce honey orangejuice garlicandginger;mixwell Separateintotwobowlsandsetaside Preheatgrilltomedium-highheat.Preheatovento350F.
Alternately thread three chicken cubes and three pineapple chunksoneachskewer Grillskewers3-5minutesoneachside Brushorspoonsaucefrom one bowl onto chicken and pineapple every other minute Discard remainingsaucefromfirstbowl.
To prevent chicken from drying out, finish cooking to minimum internal temperature of 165 F in oven. Using clean brush or spoon, coatwithsaucefromremainingbowlbeforeserving.
FamilyFeatures
Ifyouandyourlovedonesyearn fornew,stimulatingexperiencesto feelconnectedtotheoutdoors,look nofurtherthanenjoyingmealtimeal fresco.InspiredbytheMediterranean traditionof“eatingintheopenair,”al frescodiningofferspassionatehome cooksafreshwaytoenjoytheirfavoriterecipesoutsidewithfriendsand family Considerthesetwotried-and-trueal frescotipsfromtelevisionpersonality andculinaryiconRachaelRaythenext timeyouenjoydinneronthedeckor
lunchonthepatio
Gathertherighttools:Onthose buggydaysandnightsduringthe warmseasonwhenyou’rediningal fresco grabafoodmeshtent.Notonly willitprotectyourfood,butitalso looksgoodandgoeswithavarietyof tablesettings
Planthedecor:Whenhosting friendsandfamily,upyourfloralgame byreachingintothegardenandadding somefreshherbs-it’saesthetically pleasingandsmellsdelicious Idealalfrescomealstypicallytake advantageofin-seasonproduce,offer easypreparationsoyoucanfocuson entertainingandaresimpleenoughto eatoutdoors Skipcomplicatedcookingstepsandturntoadeliciousoption likeYellowfinTunaandArtichoke Pasta,whichcanbeservedasanappetizer,sidedishoronitsownasalight maincourse.
ThisdishpracticallycallsforingredientslikeGenovaYellowfinTunain OliveOil,whichfeaturescutsofwildcaughttuna,hand-filletedinjustthe rightamountofoliveoil.Savory,rich andflavorfulwithaperfecttexture,the tunaelevatesthedishwithauniquely richandsavoryflavorstemmingfrom Mediterraneaninspiration.
Tofindmorealfrescodininginspirationandrecipeideas visitGenovaSeafood.com.
Yellowfin Tuna and Artichoke Pasta
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes with fresh artichokes (25 minutes with canned)
Servings: 4
Artichokes:
Coldwater
12small freshartichokesor2cans
artichokeheartsinwater
2lemons
3tablespoonsextra-virginoliveoil
salt,totaste
pepperorredpepper,totaste
Pasta:
Water
2cans(5ounceseach)GenovaYellowfinTuna inOliveOil
2tablespoonsextra-virginoliveoil
4tablespoonsbutter,cutintotabs
4clovesgarlic,chopped
1teaspooncrushedredpepper(optional)
salt,totaste
½cupwhitewine,chickenstockorvegetablestock
1poundspaghettiorlinguine
1lemon,juiceonly
1cupgratedPecorinoRomanocheese
¼cupchoppedfreshItalianparsley divided
1smallhandfulfreshmint,chopped,divided
¼cuptoastedpistachiosorpinenuts,chopped
Tomakeartichokes:Preheatovento425F.
Fillbowlwithcoldwaterandjuiceofonelemon.
If using fresh artichokes, trim tops of artichokes and tougherouterleaves.Usingvegetablepeelerorsmallparing knife trimstems Onceprepped,cutfreshartichokesinhalf If using canned artichokes drain well and quarter lengthwise.
Placeartichokesinlemonwater.
Let soak 2-3 minutes, drain and pat dry with kitchen towel.
In casserole or baking dish, arrange artichokes and add juice of remaining lemon, quarter lemon and add lemon wedgestodish Addoliveoilandsaltandpepper,totaste
Roast25-30minutes oruntiltender
Tomakepasta:Bringlargepotofwatertoboil.
While water is coming to boil, place large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter Add garlic; red pepper,ifdesired;andsalt,totaste,andswirl1minute Add whitewineorstockandletreducebyhalf.
Whenwatercomestoboil,saltwater,addpastaandcook
1 minute less than directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water beforedraining Add artichokes to large skillet with tuna with its oil and gentlybreakupwithbackofwoodenspoonorpaddle Addlemonjuiceandreservedpastawatertoskilletalong with drained pasta, cheese and half the parsley, mint and pistachios. Toss to combine, top with remaining parsley, mintandpistachiosandserve.
MHS Communications
Significantlifechangescanbestressfulandcausemental healthissues,expectedornot
Experiences such as the death of a loved one divorce or separation birthofachild,andjoblossaresomeofthemost commonsignificantlifechangesonecangothrough
In the military, frequent relocations, transitioning out of service,orevenbeingsentintoharm’swaycancausemental stress
“Theselifechangescanleadtostressandthedevelopment of stress disorders or other mental health disorders,” said Dr Marija S. Kelber, a team lead of evidence synthesis and disseminationofthePsychologicalHealthCenterofExcellenceopensHealth.mil
Kelber acknowledged that not only negative life events can cause mental stress, but “some rewarding events, like the birth of a child or getting married, joining the military, being promoted, and assuming a new assignment, can be perceivedasstressful.”
Approaching a
When facing stressful situations it is important to take careofyourselfthebestyoucan Kelber said “healthy responses include engaging in problem solving and turning to friends or loved ones for emotionalsupport Mindfulness-basedapproachessuchas meditation and yoga can be beneficial for managing stress Avoid drugs or alcohol, engage in self-care, like healthy eating,exercise,andgettingenoughsleep Connectingwith one’s community or faith organization is also a potentially usefulcopingskill.”
While circumstances involved may not be under someone’s control, “the way they think about the situation and theimpactmaybesomethingtheyhavemorecontrolover,” saidKelber “Identifyingwhichfactorsyouhavecontrolover areimportantandcanbeempowering.”
Developing relationships and expanding social support networks is valuable in mitigating the impact of stressors andlifechanges
“ThePHCOEwebsiteisatreasuretroveofresources,”said Kelber “Weworktoimprovethelivesofournation’sservice members, veterans, and their families by advancing excel-
lenceinmilitarymentalhealthandhealthcareresearch.”
The center conducts research on the causes, trajectories, and outcomes of psychological health conditions in service members, as well as the most effective treatments PHCOE also promotes clinical care focused on the patient andisinformedbythebestcurrentresearchavailabletohelp improvepsychologicalhealthandreadiness
PHCOEandotherrelevantresourcesinclude: inTransitionopens Health.mil: Offers specialized coachingandassistancetomentalhealthcareinafree,confidentialprogram. PsychHealthEvidenceBriefsopensHealth.mil:Summarizes scientific evidence and clinical guidance to inform abouttreatments.
PsychologicalHealthResourceCenteropensHealth.mil: Provides a trusted source of psychological health information and resources related to a variety of mental health concernsandassistance
Real Warriors Campaignopens Health.mil: Encourages service members to seek help for psychological health concernsbypromotingacultureofsupportandemphasizingthatmentalhealthcareishealthcare
Primary Care Behavioral Healthopens Health.mil: Providesateam-basedapproachtohealthcarebyintegratingbehavioralhealthprofessionalsintoprimarycare
ClinicalSupportToolsopensHealth.mil:Offersguidelines intendedforuseasatooltoassisthealthcareproviders
For U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Tracy Adjeisarpong, serving in the military can cause stress Having a spouse living in anothercountrycanaddtoit “Itisquitehardtonavigatealong-distancerelationship,” she said. “For a bit, the time zone difference was a big deal, andmyworkscheduledidnothelpmatters Ittakesatollon you mentally too because one day you’re too drained to do anything, and the next day you have time, but your partner isunavailable.”
“Mostofthestressismentalandpsychologicalbutbecause peoplecan’t‘see’it,theythinkeverythingisfine,”sheadded.
Yet Adjeisarpong has learned that embracing changes associatedwithmilitarylifehelpshergetthroughthem.She seestheselifechangesas“theopportunitytoexploredifferent cultures.” She has been stationed in South Korea and is currently stationed as a public affairs broadcaster assigned totheAmericanForcesNetworkinWiesbaden,Germany. Adjeisarpong acknowledged she has had to “learn and unlearn certain habits along the way” to help her adjust to newcountriesandcultures.
The U.S. Army community service center is a resource that she often uses for a “plethora of information,” along with Military OneSourceopens militaryonesource.mil, a programthatprovidesawiderangeofsupportandresources toservicemembers,theirfamilies,andsurvivors Adjeisarpongsaidthathavingaclosegroupoffriendsand keepinganopenmindarealsoessential “Ihaveasolidteaminmycorner.Solidfriendsandfamily have gotten me through it all. I keep my circle small and genuine,”shesaid.“Beopentochangeandexploredifferent cultures, judge less and care more. In the end that’s all that matters.Stayresilient!”
U.S. Army Sgt. Austin Baker has handled both positive and negative significant life changes From having childrentoadivorce,todeploymentstounknownlocationsfor unknown amounts of time—he has “gone through a lot of change, and I have experienced personal growth through everything life has thrown at me,” said Baker.
“Lifehasitsupsanddowns,buteverysignificantchange I’vegonethroughhasmoldedandshapedmeintothefather man, and soldier I am today, Baker said He is currently stationed at the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden, Germany, as a public affairs mass communications specialist
Like everybody, he has had to learn what works for him in handling life changes and the mental stress they can cause “Ihadtochallengemyselfmentallyandphysically,”said Baker.“Istartedgoingtothelibraryandcheckedoutloads of self-help books; I picked back up on working toward my bachelor’s degree; and I began going to the gym and running regularly I feel like everyone should push themselves to become the best versions of themselves.”
Heevenstartedgoingtotherapy,althoughheneversaw himself as “being that guy.”
Herecognizesthereisstillastigmasurroundingseeking mentalhealthcareandquestionswhathispeersorleaders may think if they knew he saw a therapist. However, therapy has helped him understand himself better than ever “IlearnedhowtofeelnewemotionsthatIhaven’texperienced before, said Baker.
“You must be willing to go that extra mile, you must be willingtopushthroughwhateveritisyou’regoingthrough, and you need to be able to not quit, no matter the cost Withtherightmentalityyoucangetthroughanythinglife throws your way,” he said.
