Flagship 07.18.24

Sailors get colorful during annual 5K

By Mass Communication Specialist

2nd Class Joseph T. Miller

NORFOLK, Va. — Naval Station (NAVSTA)

Norfolk’s Norfolk Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) fitness team hosted its annual “Run for a Cause Color Run” 5K at McClure Field on Naval Station Norfolk, July 12, 2024.

Anthony Benning, the NAVSTA Norfolk MWR fitness director, and his team, started the “Run for a Cause Color Run” 5K series in 2017 as a way for participants to choose their specific cause. The participants, including Sailors, their families, civilians and children from the childcare centers on NAVSTA Norfolk, were invited to wear shirts representing their cause of choice. Causes chosen ranged from sexual assault prevention to mental health awareness.

This year’s event was coordinated by Jeff Lowe, the fitness facility coordinator for MWR Fitness Sports. Lowe and 55 MWR staff and volunteers

began the set up for the event at 7:00 a.m., preparing refreshment tables, an inflatable finish line, colorful powder containers and sprayers for the run. Soon after, 5K participants began arriving to check in and get warmed up for the run.

The race kicked off officially at 9:30 a.m. As runners left the starting line, MWR staff sprayed them with a rainbow of vibrant powders, coating them in an entire spectrum of colors as they took off down Moffett Avenue, which runs parallel to McClure Field toward Dillingham Boulevard.

The run path would lead participants down through NAVSTA Norfolk’s Admirals Row, down toward the piers and loop back around the coast of Willoughby Bay, passing Vista point along their route. They would eventually finish back at McClure Field within the stadium.

Once they cross the finish line, MWR staff blasted runners with a second wave of colored

Unprecedented: Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group returns from combat deployment

NORFOLK, Va. — The Dwight D. Eisenhower (IKE) Carrier Strike Group (CSG) returned to Norfolk, after a historic ninemonth combat deployment to U.S. 5th Fleet, July 14, 2024. The strike group — comprised of the nine squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and Arleigh Burkeclass guided-missile destroyers USS Gravely (DDG 107) and USS Mason (DDG 87) of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 — engaged in combat operations in the Middle East region from Nov. 2023 to June 2024.

“We provide options to our nation’s decision makers. Our job is to preserve the peace, respond in crisis, and if necessary, fight and win decisively, and you delivered on all of those objectives,”

to Eisenhower Returns, Page 3

NORFOLK, Va (July 14, 2024) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) returns to Naval Station Norfolk, July 14, 2024, concluding a ninemonth deployment to the Atlantic. Eisenhower, the flagship of the Ike Carrier Strike Group, departed Norfolk October 14, 2023 to conduct a scheduled deployment to U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts, and enhanced vigilance activities operations with NATO Allies and Partners. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS HUNTER DAY)

NORFOLK, Virginia (July 12, 2024) Sailors and civilians take off from the starting line while Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) staff spray color chalk at the MWR’s Annual “Run for a Cause Color Run” 5K on Naval Station Norfolk July 12, 2024. The MWR Annual Color

Courtesy Story Carrier Strike Group Two

FFSC’s Deployment Support Program aims to reduce deployment and reintegration stress for sailors and families

By Ninoshka Basantes

Public Affairs Specialist, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic

Deployment is a significant event in the lives of service members and their families, requiring careful planning and support. Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC) plays a crucial role in reducing deployment-related stress through its Deployment Support Programs by addressing the various challenges faced by sailors and military families.

“Every part of deployment is stressful — the prepping, the middle, and the return,” said Amy Kirk, a Work and Family Life Program Supervisor at FFSC Norfolk. “This is why we encourage service members and their families to attend the different programs offered.”

Pre-Deployment Readiness

FFSC emphasizes the importance of early and thorough preparation for deployment. Service members and their families are encouraged to attend Pre-deployment Readiness briefs, which can be scheduled at any time, but are recommended at least three months prior to deployment.

“Attending the classes offered allows service members and their families to mitigate stress and strengthen their communication skills,” said Kirk.

For couples, deployments can be an opportunity to strengthen their relationship and experience personal growth. FFSC provides specialized briefs designed to help couples manage the difficulties associated with separation. These sessions focus on building mutual trust, improving communication, recognizing positive aspects, expressing gratitude, and setting goals for the future.

Deployments can be particularly challenging for children. FFSC provides program briefs that equip parents with the knowledge, skills, and coping techniques necessary to help their children manage emotional reactions to deployment. These sessions focus on establishing positive and open communication, involving children in deployment plans, and helping them adjust to the temporary absence of a parent.

Single service members face unique challenges when preparing for deployment. FFSC programs offer practical tips and stress coping skills to help them manage their finances, pay bills, and handle property and car storage. Additionally, these programs emphasize the importance of maintaining communication with family and friends.

During Deployment

Family Readiness Groups (FRGs) offer a valuable support network for family members associated with the same command. FFSC provides training for FRG leadership and presentations for family members on staying in touch, managing stress, and navigating emotional pitfalls during deployment. FRGs create a community where family members can gain support, share information, and socialize with others in similar situations.

Ombudsmen serve as vital links between family members and commands, offering resource and referral information to those in need. FFSC supports this program by providing basic and advanced training for

ombudsmen as well as offering additional on-call assistance, when necessary.

FFSC provides individual counseling for family members facing the challenges of change and separation. Licensed counselors offer confidential support to help family members cope with the emotional and practical aspects of deployment.

“‘Navigating Your New Normal’ is a mid-deployment program we often provide to help families identify and connect with resources to aid in managing deployment challenges successfully. We focus on stages 4-6 of the Emotional Cycle of Deployment, stress recognition and management, and self-care tools. The program encourages building self-sufficiency to better equip you to handle things you can’t control such as deployments being extended,” said Kirk.

Reintegration and Homecoming

Homecoming marks an exciting phase of deployment. FFSC assists active-duty members and their families in making a smooth transition from deployment to homecoming. Return and Reunion (R&R) programs are provided onboard ships, upon command request. During the final transit days, FFSC R&R teams embark the ships to conduct programs, covering topics such as stress management, car buying, post-deployment finances, reintegrating with children, new parenting, and reuniting with partners. The team is aboard for approximately two-weeks, making the transit back to Norfolk.

“For out most recent R&R supporting the Eisenhower Strike Group, in addition to our educators, we also sent counselors out to ships to provide additional support to Sailors and assist with coordination of any follow-on services they may need. said Kirk. “ Kirk mentioned that there are two sides to homecoming, the happy side and then the stressful side. Which normally sinks in a week or two after being home.

“Homecoming is a happy moment, but there are questions that will arise after a few days being at home,” said Kirk. “How to communicate with my spouse? How to relate to my children? Do I still know my partner?”

Programs for family members — often provided through FRG by request — mirror the R&R programs offered to deployed service members. These programs aim to discuss the normal reactions family members are likely to experience and provide strategies for adjusting as a couple, reuniting with children, and navigating family life post-deployment.

“During this time, you are getting to know your spouse again, there will be routines in place that you will want to change, you might even feel like you do not fit in. This is why this program is so important, we help provide tools needed to make this process less stressful.”

Ongoing Support

FFSC’s commitment to supporting service members and their families extends beyond the immediate phases of deployment and homecoming. Continuous access to resources, counseling, and community

support ensures that families can effectively manage the unique challenges of military life, fostering resilience and well-being throughout the deployment cycle.

“Navigating your new normal is not an easy process,” said Kirk. “So, if you did

not get the opportunity to attend a scheduled program, you can reach out and speak one-on-one with our FFSC educators.”

For more information on this program and other programs and services offered through FFSC, visit www.cnic.mil/navylifema.

By Destiny Sibert Commander, Navy Installations Command

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) has implemented a relaxed clothing policy for military patrons at all of the Navy’s 80 shore galleys.

Editorial Staff Managing Editor | MCC Amanda Kitchner

“We want to ensure those eating at our galleys enjoy a comfortable dining experience and that starts with their clothing,” said Leslie Gould, Director of Fleet & Family Readiness. “We know that our Sailors have busy lives and may be fitting their meals into a hectic schedule. If they’re on their way to the gym or out running errands, we don’t want restrictive clothing policies to discourage them from dining at our galleys.”

The new Policy for Shore Galley Attire

Previously, installation commanding officers set their own dress policies for the galleys located on their bases. These inconsistent polices sometimes led to confusion and overly restrictive requirements for attire at some locations may have discouraged Sailors from utilizing galleys on their base.

757-262-2852 | amanda.s.kitchner.mil@us.navy.mil

Military Editor | MC1 Maddelin Hamm

757-322-2853 | maddelin.v.hamm.mil@us.navy.mil

permits most civilian clothes that are clean, in good condition, do not contain offensive language or pictures and aren’t overly revealing. This includes sandals, board shorts and clean physical training clothing.

Those in military uniform must comply with appropriate uniform guidance. Navy schoolhouse students or recruits may be subject to additional dress code requirements without waiver to the new policy.

The full Policy for Shore Galley Attire can be viewed here.

Commander, Navy Installations

Command is responsible for worldwide U.S. Navy Shore installation management, designing and developing integrated solutions for sustainment and development of Navy shore infrastructure as well as quality of life programs. CNIC oversees 10 Navy regions, 70 installations, and more than 43,000 employees who sustain the fleet, enable the fighter, and support the family. Follow CNIC on social media: Facebook, Facebook.com/NavyInstallations; X, @ cnichq; and Instagram, @cnichq.

GHWB_March 2023 – FFSC Norfolk Return and Reunion program educators facilitate a brief to

Sailors aboard USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) in March 2023 as the ship transits home from deployment. (COURTESY PHOTO)

USS Nitze_March 2023 – Neily RoldanCastillo, a Deployment Specialist at FFSC Norfolk, facilitates a Return and Reunion program brief aboard USS Nitze (DDG 94) to Sailors returning from deployment in March 2023. (COURTESY PHOTO)

said Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti. “You had a mission and you did it every day with purpose and perseverance.”

When Houthi capabilities threatened innocent merchant traffic in critical waterways, CVW-3 collaborated with U.S. Air Force assets and coalition partners to launch seven pre-planned, dedicated strikes into Iranian-backed, Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen. The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Laboon (DDG 58) and USS Carney (DDG 64) augmented the strike group in the U.S. 5th Fleet operating area, launching Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMs) into Yemen from the Red Sea to support the strikes.

“When called upon, the force brought the fight to the Houthis in their front yard, linking airpower and dynamic and self-defense strikes. These acts reduced the risk to shipping and also reinforced our nation’s commitment to maritime security,” said Vice Adm. George Wikoff, commander, U.S. 5th Fleet. “The currency used to fund this important mission was incredible focus, resiliency and professionalism of the sailors of the IKE Carrier Strike Group over eight months…this is the Navy’s finest moments since World War II.”

Beyond self-defensive strikes into Yemen, IKECSG units engaged dozens of one-way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles, uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs), and uncrewed underwater vehicles, earning awards including the Combat Action Ribbon and Navy Unit Commendation award. Several aviators were also awarded personal medals for their exemplary actions against the December 31, January 9, and subsequent Houthi attacks on IKECSG units. At sea, Philippine Sea and Gravely successfully escorted over 28 highvalue, vulnerable units conducting innocent passage through the Strait of Hormuz, Gulfs of Oman and Aden, Bab al-Mandeb Strait, and through the Red Sea.

In total, IKECSG warships launched 155 standard missiles, and 135 TLAMs from their vertical launch system across self-defense and pre-planned strikes. IKECSG aircraft expended nearly 60 air-to-air missiles and released 420 air-to-surface weapons.

The Houthi targets in Yemen posed an immediate threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant shipping, and these strikes were designed to degrade Houthi offensive capabilities.across more than 460 pre-planned, dynamic, and self-defense targets. These threats damaged many civilian vessels, and IKECSG warships answered their distress calls. Laboon rescued stranded civilians in the Red Sea and returned them to the regional coast guard. Philippine Sea and its embarked detachment of MH-60R helicopters from Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74 rescued 24 civilian mariners in distress after a USV struck the M/V Tutor in the southern Red Sea.

For nine months, the units within IKECSG sustained operations with minimal port calls thanks to their seamless integration with Military Sealift Command (MSC). The Supply-class fast combat ship USNS Supply (T-AOE-6) deployed as a part of the IKECSG. Also supporting logistics in the Red Sea were the Henry J. Kaiser class USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196), and the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE-3). Together with the carrier, they enabled all strike group operations, logistics support, command and control structure, and essential medical resources.

The Sailors of IKECSG demonstrated unparalleled resiliency, supported by the embarked Deployment Resiliency Team who worked tirelessly to build connections between Sailors, families, and friends.

The team included a Deployed Resiliency Counselor, two psychologists, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, an Embedded Integrated Prevention Coordinator, seven Chaplains, and a command facility dog named Demo, As IKECSG returns home, Return and Reunion teams are embarked to offer Sailors workshops and one-on-one counseling designed to help them ease back into reuniting with loved ones at home.

“What a wonderful day,” said Rear Adm. Kavon Hakimzadeh, Commander, CSG-2, IKECSG, speaking on the return of IKECSG. “These Sailors are surrounded by their loved ones after a long deployment. Every single one of them demonstrated a level of courage and resiliency that we can all be proud of. I am so proud to be part of this Navy team, and I am grateful to everyone who put in the time and effort to make this a great homecoming!”

The units departed their homeports of Norfolk and Oceana, Virginia, Mayport, Florida, and Whidbey Island, Washington, on Oct. 13 & 14 for the scheduled deployment. Now back home, IKECSG Sailors will get opportunities for downtime to rest and recuperate.

Squadrons of Carrier Air Wing 3 include the “Gunslingers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 105, the “Fighting Swordsmen” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 32, the “Rampagers” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 83, the “Wildcats” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 131, the “Screwtops” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 123, the “Zappers” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, the “Dusty Dogs” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 7, the “Swamp Foxes” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74 and the “Rawhides” of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40. For more information about the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, head to Facebook (/CSGTwo & /TheCVN69); Instagram (@CarrierStrikeGroupTwo & @TheCVN69); LinkedIn (Carrier-StrikeGroup-TWO). For inquiries, email pao@ cvn69.navy.mil.

USS Normandy returns to Norfolk

By Ensign John Pearson Carrier Strike Group 12

NORFOLK, Va. — USS Normandy (CG 60) returned to its homeport this morning following two and a half months of operational tasking that saw them in Fleet Week Miami, Cherbourg, France, and Baltic Operations 2024 (BALTOPS 2024).

As part of the first-ever Fleet Week Miami, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser joined USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), USS Bataan (LHD 5), USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55), and Coast Guard cutter USCGS Seneca (WMEC 906) at Port Miami to host public tours, share capabilities of our sea services, present maritime history, and exhibit Navy and Marine Corps technologies.

Then, it was off across the Atlantic. The mighty Normandy returned to its namesake province in France on June 3rd. Three days later, the ship hosted a reception commemorating the 80th anniversary of Operation Overlord. This Allied invasion sparked a turnaround in the Second World War towards driving the Nazis out of France.

The Honorable Carlos Del Toro, 78th Secretary of the Navy, Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF), and Adm. Nicolas Vaujour, 63rd Chief of Staff of the French Navy, attended the commemoration and spoke to the legacy that D-Day carries even eight decades later.

“On that fateful day, members of the ‘Greatest Generation,’ from our Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, and Coastguardsmen to the French Resistance fighters who fought to set the conditions for victory behind enemy lines, demonstrated a level of devotion to duty, gallantry, and heroism that was unparalleled in the history of mankind,” said Secretary Del Toro. “They accepted nothing less than full victory. Their bravery and sacrifice are forever etched in the histories of our nations and will continue to serve as inspiration for future generations.”

After France, Normandy turned north. She cruised into the 53rd iteration of BALTOPS 2024, NATO’s premier maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise gathered more than 50 ships, 85 aircraft, and approximately

9,000 personnel to demonstrate NATO’s commitment to a peaceful, stable, and conflict-free Atlantic region.

As part of the exercise, Normandy had the chance to sail alongside USS Tennessee (SSBN 734) in the Norwegian Sea.

“The past two and a half months on Normandy’s summer deployment has been nothing short of a spectacular show of what hard-working and dedicated Sailors can do,” said Captain Errol Robinson, commanding officer of USS Normandy.

“From displaying our naval power at Fleet Week Miami 2024 to attending the 80th year dedication of D-Day in Normandy, France, and working with the Norwegian Navy and our own USS Tennessee (SSBN 734), there is truly nothing USS Normandy cannot do.”

On the way home, the crew had the chance to stretch their legs in Rota, Spain, before getting underway for the home stretch.

Now, the ship and crew return home with stories, memories, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and missions accomplished; a distinguished notch in Normandy’s 35-year-old belt.

Commander led Naval Medical Forces Atlantic to new heights

By Jennifer Goulart Naval Medical Forces Atlantic

PORTSMOUTH, Va. — Rear Adm. Matthew Case passed the helm to his longtime friend, Rear Adm. Kevin J. Brown, during the Naval Medical Forces Atlantic (NMFL) change of command ceremony held at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads-Portsmouth Annex, July 12.

The traditional ceremony symbolizes the transfer of total responsibility, authority, and accountability from one officer to another.

“Admiral Case, as the first Naval Medical Forces Atlantic type commander, you paved the way for this enormous enterprise,” said Rear Adm. Darin Via, the 40th U.S. Navy Surgeon General, and chief, U.S. Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery. “Your leadership in manning, training, and equipping our expeditionary medical platforms has ensured operational readiness and the timely production of essential medical equipment.”

During Case’s tenure at NMFL, one of his great accomplishments was to establish a medical training group in the Hampton Roads area which significantly enhanced operational readiness and medical preparedness production of essential medical equipment. Additionally, he set a high standard as he fostered strong relationships through extensive visits to 89 of the 92 subordinate commands.

“Over the past two years I watched this organization really transition into a fully functional type command with a maritime operations center,” explained Case. “I also watched this small but mighty Tidewater Market assume authority, direction, and control over 13 additional military treatment facilities, and I watched the many leaders in the room, direct quality care, and advance our organizational capabilities,” he said.

“Every day you got the job done. This has been a challenging decade, and we ask you to do more with less, to do it safely and not fail, and it can be hard. To do this, I ask that you take care of yourselves, continue to embrace the red, be bold, and take actions to improve your readiness, continue to never fail your patients, do this and you will succeed. As I close, a great philosopher once said, ‘onward, forward.’ ”

A native of Nottingham, New Hampshire, Case’s next assignment will be as deputy to the assistant director for health care admin-

istration with the DHA in Falls Church, Virginia. Brown, a native of Genoa, Ohio, is the former director of Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL) and commander of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Camp Lejeune plans to continue to build on the strong foundation laid by Case, focusing on advancing Navy Medicine’s shift towards enhanced readiness and medical support for the Navy-Marine Corps Team.

“Kevin, your proven leadership and dedication to excellence are evident through your extensive experience and key roles within Navy Medicine. I am confident that your innovative mindset and ability

to connect with your team will drive Naval Medical Forces Atlantic to new heights, ensuring we continue to meet the challenges ahead,” stated Via. Upon taking the helm, Brown addressed the Navy Medicine staff located across the globe. “Today, we face persistent and emerging threats that challenge global stability, driving the need to redistribute and optimize our limited defense resources,” he said.

“The military health system must ensure our operational forces are ready to fight and win in a peer-opposed environment, applying our resources for the optimum return on investment in both healthcare delivery and operational readiness.”

NMFL delivers operationally focused

medical expertise and capabilities to meet Fleet, Marine and Joint Force requirements by providing equipment, sustainment, and maintenance of medical forces during combat operations and public health crises. NMFL provides oversight for 21 Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command’s, logistics, public health and dental services throughout the U.S. East Coast, U.S. Gulf Coast, Cuba, Europe, and the Middle East. Navy Medicine — represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilian health care professionals — provides

NORFOLK, Va. (July 13, 2024) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) returns to Naval Station Norfolk, following two and a half months of operational tasking. Normandy participated in Fleet Week Miami before being deployed to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa area of responsibility to honor the 80th D-Day commemoration and participate in Baltic Operations 24. (U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST 2ND CLASS ADONICA MUNOZ)

powder. The first to cross the finish, with a time of 21:35, was David Perez, a French visitor to the

for the

Following Perez came Lt. Cmdr. Evan Koho, from the Defense Logistics Agency, who ran to support his Sailors.

“My Sailors asked me to participate with them, so I did,” said Koho. “It was a very fun and a great way to build comradery with my team.”

Not long after Koho, many more runners would cross the finish and receive a vibrant hued bath. As runners finished the run, MWR staff offered refreshments and areas to relax while the participants recovered. Furthermore, available to competitors were a wide array of pamphlets and information from MWR on tickets to amusement parks and MWR trips.

For more information of upcoming MWR at NAVSTA Norfolk or the surrounding installations event, please visit https://www.navylifema.com/events

Mobile Training Lab offers Sailors key submarine navigation experience

By John O’neill Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic

NORFOLK, Va. — More than 70 Sailors and civilians from 10 submarine commands received hands-on submarine experience using Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic’s Mobile Training Lab (MTL), June 24-28, onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Virginia.

The training opportunity was the first East Coast use of the MTL, which is custom built from a reused shipping container and mimics the setup of a submarine navigation suite.

The lab can be customized with a submarine’s specific equipment and then transported anywhere to provide training world-wide. The goal is to grow the number over time so more Fleet concentration areas have direct access to them. While the MTL is set up for fast attack boats currently, it can be setup for other configurations as well dependent upon the demand signal and funding.

“We have wanted to do this for some time. I realized we had an old container not being used, so we set up a navigation space,” said Matthew Daniels, NIWC Atlantic Mobile Navigation Training lead.

Earlier this year, Daniels and his training team took the lab on the road to Hawaii where they first brought 85 Sailors through training via the MTL in a week.

“We are finding that there is a variety of experience levels coming through. A few of these Sailors have not had a chance to operate some of this gear, so the MTL becomes a force multiplier in terms of growing Sailor readiness,” said Daniels.

During the training, the Sailors get an understanding of the systems and the importance of maintaining them while they work through sets of breakdowns on the equipment. They also have the opportunity to investigate and troubleshoot the problems and then physically make repairs. This enhances their readiness for when they get underway.

“This mobile trainer is a brilliant idea,” said USS Montpellier SSN-765, Electronics Technician (Navigation) 3rd Class Wyatt Cosat from Canyon City, Colorado. “We are in the shipyards now, so it is hard to get hands on the equipment. You can read all the manuals you want, but it doesn’t make up for the hands-on experience. I would definitely recommend this to other commands.” Electronics Technician (Navigation) 2nd Class Patrick Powers, a Brookings, South Dakota native assigned to USS Montana (SSN 794), said, “We were able to take apart and put back together a gyro compass, something unheard of on a boat! I love the hands-on training over the classroom. We absolutely need to see more of this.”

being ‘ready to fight tonight.’ The timeliness and success of this training evolution better prepares our Sailors and ultimately the fleet for meeting that intent.”

To learn more about the MTL or receive information on how to set up training for your team, commands can contact: niwclant_tacnav_isea. fct@us.navy.mil

While this is only the second use of the mobile trainer, there has been positive feedback from Sailors and civilians who have participated that will shape future iterations of training and how the MTL is used.

“The feedback we have received from the Sailors after the training state that they have received more training in eight hours in the MTL than from a six to eight-week class-

This week’s training was at the NIWC Atlantic site but since the MTL can be loaded onto a flatbed and taken directly to the Fleet, the consensus from participants is that they would like to see the lab brought to the pier for a day of training. “An entire division or department could get the same training in one day,” said Electronics Technician (Navigation) 2nd Class James Donahue of USS John Warner (SSN 785), a Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania native. “I would like to do this more than just this time, because you learn something new every time you go through it.”

room course,” said Daniels. The MTL team is looking to host a training week in Hampton Roads again in the fall and are targeting one in Guam next spring.

“We are incredibly proud of the work the team has done,” said Jared Judy, Position, Navigation and Timing Engineering Integrated Product Team Lead. “This work will definitely improve the readiness of submarine crews who attend the training. Former CNO, Admiral Michael Gilday, spoke about

About NIWC Atlantic: As a part of Naval Information Warfare Systems Command, formally known as SPAWAR, NIWC Atlantic provides systems engineering and acquisition to deliver information warfare capabilities to the naval, joint and national warfighter through the acquisition, development, integration, production, test, deployment, and sustainment of interoperable command, control, communications, computer, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, cyber and information technology capabilities.

USNCC expands partnerships to provide new engineering degree programs; unveils standalone certificates

By Shanessa Jackson U.S. Naval Community College

QUANTICO, Va. — The U.S. Naval Community College recently expanded its existing partnerships with Alexandria Technical and Community College (ATCC) and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) to offer new degree programs focused on engineering. These new USNCC associate degree programs will begin classes during the Fall II Term in October 2024, and applications became available on July 8.

The USNCC works to ready warfighters through world-class, naval-relevant, and flexible education programs designed for a globally deployed enlisted force. The United States’ naval services are massive fleets of attack, defense, cargo, rescue and support vessels, vehicles, aircraft, and systems—all working in tandem to carry out the nation’s most critical missions. As a result, the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard run on science and technology, with engineering forming an essential component of every aspect of operations.

USNCC has partnered with ATCC to provide the Associate of Science in General Engineering program, including the General Engineering Sciences Certificate and General Engineering Requisites Certificate. The second new program with ATCC is an Associate of Applied Science in General Engineering Technology which includes the General Engineering Technology Certificate. ATCC’s portfolio of USNCC programs now consists of these two new degrees along with an existing associate degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology.

ERAU’s partnership with USNCC was expanded to provide the new Associate of Science in Engineering Fundamentals that includes the Certificate in Engineering Fundamentals. This new program complements ERAU’s suite of USNCC programs that include an Associate of Science in Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems and an Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance.

“Engineering enables change and innovation across all segments of society, including manufacturing, medicine, aerospace, and defense,” said USNCC President Randi R. Cosentino, Ed.D. “These new associate degrees will help USNCC students advance in their naval careers by establishing the foundation of comprehensive knowledge needed for success in engineering—both academically and professionally.”

Each associate degree also includes the

Naval Studies Certificate, a five-course, fifteen-credit program based on naval sciences courses taught in the U.S. Naval Academy and Naval ROTC programs. The courses are Ethics and Leadership; Modern Naval History; Naval Force Design and Concepts; Civilian/Military Relations, Organization, and American Government; and the capstone course Introduction to the Geopolitical Environment.

In addition to the new engineering programs, all stackable certificates for USNCC programs are now available as standalone programs:

„ Naval Studies Certificate, United States Naval Community College

„ General Engineering Requisites Certificate, Alexandria Technical and Community College

„ General Engineering Sciences Certificate,

Alexandria Technical and Community College

„ General Engineering Technology Certificate, Alexandria Technical and Community College

„ Naval Nuclear Engineering Diploma, Alexandria Technical and Community College

„ Aviation Maintenance Part 65 Certificate, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

„ Engineering Fundamentals Certificate, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

„ Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems Certificate, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

„ IT Technical Support Certificate, Northern Virginia Community College.

„ Network Administration Certificate, Northern Virginia Community College

„ Computer Networking Certificate,

University of Maryland Global Campus

„ Data Analytics Foundations Certificate, Western Governors University

„ Health Science Undergraduate Certificate, Western Governors University

„ Network and Cyber Defense Foundations Certificate, Western Governors University

USNCC is currently accepting applications for all available programs for the 2024 - 2025 academic year. Active-duty enlisted Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen as well as Coast Guard Reservists can fill out an application on the USNCC website. USNCC currently has an enrollment of more than 3,000 students. For more information on attending USNCC, visit www. usncc.edu.

ABOVE: Hampton Roads Sailors and government civilians attend training in the NIWC Atlantic Mobile Training Lab (MTL), part

(U.S. NAVY GRAPHIC BY CHIEF MASS COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST STACY M. ATKINSRICKS)

SCSTC delivers Aegis training to the waterfront

By Kimberly Lansdale Surface Combat Systems Training Command

NORFOLK, Va. — Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCSTC) Hampton Roads (HR) recently conducted a ribbon cutting for SCSTC’s third Reconfigurable Combat Information Center Trainer (RCT), onboard Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk.

During this surface combat systems training milestone event, SCSTC HR’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Riley Murdock, addressed Aegis Tactical Action Officer (ATAO) students in the RCT.

“You are making history today,” she said. “You are the first U.S. naval officers to receive Aegis pipeline training outside of Dahlgren in the program’s 40-year history.”

To ensure warfighters possess the tactical and technical competence and proficiency needed to execute across the spectrum of operations in today’s challenging environment, SCSTC has been adapting and implementing innovative ways to train our future warfighting force.

A key component to SCSTC’s training approach is to immerse trainees in realistic real world training environments by emulating, simulating, or providing the physical elements of the equipment and operating conditions with trainers such as the RCT. In 2019, the first two RCTs came online at SCSTC AEGIS Training and Readiness Center onboard Naval Support Facility Dahlgren, Virginia.

The RCT is part of Surface Training Advanced Virtual Environment — Combat Systems (STAVE-CS), the Director, Surface Warfare’s (OPNAV N96) program of record. STAVE-CS was introduced nine years ago as a means to invest in training technologies, devices, and facilities to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and availability of all surface training.

The trainer allows watchteams to practice standard operating procedures, tactics, techniques, and procedures, and pre-planned responses in a simulator with capabilities like SCSTC’s Combined Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Trainer (CIAT), minus the ASW capability.

The RCT plays a crucial role in Aegis pipeline training, especially in the nine-week ATAO course. The overall objective of the course is combat identification, the process of recognizing a threat and then pairing the best tactics to counter that threat. Approximately 80 percent of this course is lab time in the RCT.

To accommodate more throughput of our advanced Aegis baseline training, SCSTC

worked with its counterparts and industry partners to deliver the RCT to NAVSTA Norfolk, the world’s largest naval station, with the largest concentration of U.S. Navy forces.

Having this trainer available at the waterfront also allows more flexibility. It maintains the training pipeline during times of upgrade at other RCTs, and Officers are closer to their families and/or assigned ships/units in the Norfolk area.

More importantly, the RCTs are preparing our ships for real world events and ensuring the warfighting needs of our Fleet. SCSTC, its counterparts, and industry partners have been assessing and examining lessons learned from the attacks in the Red Sea and incorporating them into training scenarios in the RCTs for ships preparing to deploy.

Currently, there is a fourth RCT under construction onboard Naval Base San Diego, the largest naval base on the West Coast and the primary homeport for the Pacific Fleet, which includes more than 50 ships.

“Having RCTs at our major fleet concentration areas will help build a strong network of Aegis warfighters across the Surface Force and ensure our warfighters are prepared to fight, win, and return home safely,” said Murdock.

Surface Combat Systems Training Command (SCSTC), headquartered in Dahlgren, Virginia, falls under the Naval Education and Training Command (NETC), led by Rear Adm. Jeffrey Czerewko. SCSTC is a training organization that consists of 15 global learning sites and detachments. Its mission is to provide the U.S. Navy and

our allies with highly trained warfighters to maintain, operate, and tactically employ surface combat systems across the spectrum of operations. Annually, SCSTC delivers training to over 37,000 U.S. Navy Sailors as well as 700 international Sailors from 27 partner nations. For information about Surface Combat Systems Training Command, visit https:// www.netc.navy.mil/SCSTC Follow SCSTC on: „ https://www.facebook.com/ SurfaceCombatSystemsTrainingCommand „ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ scstc/ „ https://www.instagram.com/scstc_hq/

NORFOLK, Va. (June 17,

uarterdeck

ASN EI&E and “The Climate General” talk climate readiness as mission readiness

By Petty Officer 2nd Class

Jonteil Johnson U.S. Navy

PENTAGON — Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Energy, Installations, & Environment (ASN EI&E) and Chief Sustainability Officer Meredith Berger hosted retired Dutch Gen. Tom Middendorp, former Chief of Defence of the Netherlands, during an all hands call in the Pentagon July 10.

“As we talk about climate readiness as mission readiness, Gen. Middendorp’s experience demonstrates it,” Berger said. “His message resonates with us as we work to build a climate-ready force. From increasing temperatures and sea levels to droughts and wildfires, climate change threatens our forces, communities and economies. Being a climate-ready force enables us to fight and win around the globe while anticipating, preparing for, recovering from, and adapting to the evolving climate and security future.”

According to Middendorp’s book, “The Climate General,” he made news following a 2016 speech after declaring, “Climate change is a cause of conflict,” adding that “the security sector was not paying enough attention to the climate and its impact on our existence.” His nickname was subsequently dubbed.

Middendorp discussed his time serving in

By Marc Lindsay U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command

GREAT LAKES (NNS) — Seaman

Apprentice Justin Lagonegro graduated as the top Sailor from Recruit Training Command, earning the Military Excellence Award (MEA) July 11, 2024.

Lagonegro, from Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey, said he enlisted for a variety of reasons, including the opportunity to change his career path.

“I wasn’t really happy with the direction of my life and wanted to try something different,” said Lagonegro. “My father passed away in 2020, and he was always a big advocate for the military. After I thought about it, the opportunity to learn new skills, go back to school, and see the world was too hard to pass up. I decided to listen to my gut and take a chance, and I’m glad I did.”

Lagonegro, 29, graduated from Pinelands Regional High School, where he was a member of the varsity football team. After high school, he attended Washington and Jefferson College and worked for seven years in the restaurant industry.

The Navy Club of the United States Military Excellence Award is the top award presented to the recruit that best exemplifies the qualities of enthusiasm, devotion to duty, military bearing, and teamwork. The award places him at the pinnacle of today’s newest Sailors. Lagonegro is awarded a flag letter of commendation as part of his recognition.

The award, according to Lagonegro, is the best possible first step to start his naval career.

“Initially I had no idea how to feel. There were a lot of other recruits in my division who had high aspirations, but I never really thought about winning an award personally. I just wanted to do my best for the division. Winning the individual award is the result of doing my part for the success of the group. For me, this is a reminder that if you put the work in and focus on the team, individual accolades will take care of itself. It’s a lesson that I’ll take with me to the fleet.” Lagonegro’s RDCs (Recruit Division

Afghanistan fighting the Taliban and how, despite brief success of clearing them from a local area, his team did not fully solve the problem as the Taliban would repeatedly return.

“It took a while before we understood what was going on there. We found out that it was all about water scarcity,” he said. “These were all farmers in an agricultural environment. They all needed water, and there wasn’t enough water. The Taliban jumped in to decide who got the water. That gave them enormous leverage over these [farmers] and the local population.”

Once Middendorp’s team realized the issue, they flew in water management experts who were able to negotiate a solution to divide the water among the population.

“Once that solution was accepted in the local population, it became quiet,” he said.

“A year later after mediating the solution, I could walk through the main street with our current [Dutch] king with very limited protection, which shows the enormous turnaround that happened in that village. It shows that you can win fights not just by fighting, but also by addressing root causes. And one of the main root causes has to do with climate change.”

Middendorp also provided a broader perspective on how climate impacts global

Commanders) are Senior Chief Boatswain’s Mate (BMCS) Leolito Oblima, Gunner’s Mate 1st Class (GM1) Katherine Flemming and Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (HM1) Cody Mahoney, and they guided him through the 10-week process.

“From day one, BMCS Oblima set the expectation for us to be a Hall of Fame division,” he said. “Having someone who believed we could accomplish such a lofty goal was motivating. Each day we tried to be at our best, and he pushed us to achieve that. HM1 Mahoney and GM1 Flemming were always there to make sure we didn’t let up. They helped us to maintained that fire to keep learning and improving. We wouldn’t have been as successful as we were if it weren’t for them.”

Additionally, Lagonegro said his family helped push him to success.

“I’m really close with my mom and my sister,” said Lagonegro. “Since I enlisted, they’ve both been incredibly supportive. Whenever I’ve had any doubts, they always encouraged me to stick with it. Speaking with them on the phone and getting letters from them throughout training was always just what I needed to continue to push myself and try to make them proud.”

Lagonegro said his biggest challenge was learning how to work effectively with such a wide range of people.

“I’m a little older, so I figured I might have trouble finding common ground with some of the younger guys,” he said. “At first, I wanted to do everything myself instead of letting other people take the lead. I came to realize that a team works better when everyone has input and feels like they are equally important and have something to contribute. Your way is not always the best way, and allowing everyone to take a turn and lead allowed us all to grow and develop in different ways. Now we have the kind of bond with each other that we’ll remember forever.”

After graduation, Lagonegro will attend Cyber Warfare Technician “A” School in Pensacola, Florida, where he will learn to perform

security and the importance of addressing issues now. He discussed increasing global competition, regional disruption, severe weather events, climate policies and legislation, and new opportunities, all of which offered compelling narratives to help communicate the issue of climate change.

He emphasized to the attendees the importance of their roles.

“All of you working in this team, working on this topic of climate and security, I want to encourage you to take up this fight,” he said. “You are on the front line of future security. This is about the future.”

Middendorp served in the Royal Netherlands Army for 38 years. His last assignment in uniform was as the Chief of Defence of the Dutch Armed Forces, serving as the senior military advisor to the Minister of Defence.

He spent much of his career advocating for not only clean energy conversion, but also reducing the amount of environmentally harmful energy sources.

“As a former service member, I know what the price of war is,” Middendorp has previously stated. “Where there is war, there is no room for climate mitigation and adaptation. This makes it imperative to work on both ends. Climate and conflict are two sides of the same coin; we need security and stability to address climate change, while dealing with climate change can help reduce the

conflict sensitivity in fragile areas around the world.”

Throughout his career, he commanded troops at all levels, led a large multinational task force in southern Afghanistan and was involved in more than 20 international military missions. Since 2019, he has been chairman of the International Military Council on Climate and Security.

In May 2022, the Department of the Navy released Climate Action 2030 in which Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro recognized climate change as one of the most destabilizing forces of our time and charged the Department with building a climateready force.

The Navy and Marine Corps considers climate impacts, risks, and opportunities in all relevant guidance and decision-making processes to improve effectiveness, efficiency and resilience.

Berger is responsible for providing oversight and policy for Navy and Marine Corps energy and climate resilience; infrastructure sustainment, restoration and modernization; military construction; acquisition, utilization and disposal of real property and facilities; environmental protection, planning, restoration and natural resources conservation; and safety and occupational health.

Little Creek-Fort Story teens learn cake decorating, life skills

By April Phillips JEBLCFS Public Affairs

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Culinary

Specialists at the Gator Inn Galley onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story (JEBLCFS) are known for baking and decorating cakes that are almost — but not quite — too beautiful to eat. They prepare them regularly to commemorate holidays and special occasions. Once those cakes are sliced up and plated for diners, it can be easy to lose sight of how much work and skill goes into each and every one. However, 16 kids enrolled in the teen programs at both the Little Creek and Fort Story youth centers recently got a chance to learn the basics of cake decorating and give it a try themselves.

It was part of a program that is taking teens to various on- and off-base locations to learn about potential career paths in and out of the military.

“This is all about career development, education, wellness and life skills,” said Vatavia Crews, Little Creek youth center’s teen coordinator. She said the group visited a local gym the previous day to learn about the fitness industry, personal training, and running a small business. “And here we are showing them that if you have a passion for cooking and baking, you can follow that passion and still serve in the military.”

Chief Culinary Specialist Ricardo Valentin and Culinary Specialist 1st Class Arlene Grajeda, both expert decorators, led the demonstrations. Valentin gave a lesson on basic techniques such as masking a cake, which means frosting the entire cake with a thick base layer, and then how to use different decorating tips to make various shapes such as stars and shells. The teens also tried their hand with writing tips and the air brush. Once they attempted it for themselves, they quickly learned it was a lot harder than it looks.

“That’s OK,” Valentin said. “Cake decorating is just like making a jump shot in basketball. It takes practice.”

Several teens tried making various shapes with the icing. One boy tried making a heart, but when it didn’t come out as expected, another teen joked, “That’s a broken heart, man!” It was clear that learning had taken place though, when another teen reminded him to use even pressure on the icing throughout the process and the next heart came out just right.

“It’s definitely harder than it looks,” said Carly Johns, 14. She said she appreciates opportunities to try new things through the teen program. “The things we get to do are really cool and we learn a lot.”

Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Joseph Magri, the galley’s leading chief petty officer, said it’s also rewarding for the professionals.

“It’s important for us to be able to show the

younger generation that we do more than just put basic food on the table,” he said. “We have really skillful culinary specialists here, and it’s great to show young people a little bit about what the culinary arts profession is all about.” At the end of the day, the teens were able to savor more than just memories of their experience. They each got to take home a cake they decorated using their newfound skills.

USS Carney visits Newport, shares warfighting experiences

NEWPORT, R.I. — The guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) visited Naval Station Newport, July 11-15, engaging with various training and education commands to share lessons learned from the crew’s September 2023 to May 2024 independent deployment to the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

Part of a series of scheduled stops, Carney’s visit offered an opportunity for personnel from commands such as the U.S. Naval War College (NWC), Surface Warfare Schools Command (SWSC), Naval Station Newport, the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS) and Officer Training Command Newport (OTCN) to learn from the crew’s warfighting experiences in an operationally demanding environment.

“Carney’s crew are battle-tested warfighters who proved themselves to be tenacious, resilient and lethal,” said Rear Adm. Pete Garvin, president of NWC. “The opportunity to learn firsthand of their experiences, successes and challenges is priceless in training and educating the next generation of tactical, operational and strategic leaders for our Navy.” Throughout the ship’s 235 day deployment supporting maritime stability and security in defense of U.S., Allies, and partner interests, Carney conducted 51 engagements against Houthi-launched weapons, including land

attack cruise missiles, anti-ship ballistic missiles, and unmanned systems. Carney was also the first ship in the area to intercept Houthi attacks against Israel in October 2023.

The visit included Carney crew members engaging students at SWSC’s Surface Warfare Officer School, discussing ship handling, tactical employment of weapon systems, and damage control and engineering through visits to the ship and exchanges at the schoolhouse.

“What a tremendous opportunity for my staff and students to engage with the crew, learn, and receive firsthand knowledge from a ship with real-world combat experience, just home from the front-line - showcasing the warrior toughness inherent in every Navy Sailor,” said Capt. Joe Baggett, commanding officer of Surface Warfare Schools Command.

“Through direct coordination with Carney while in-port Naval Station Newport, SWSC took advantage of every opportunity to gather and leverage these warfighting lessons to make us better as we train and ready sea-bound Surface Warriors.”

Cmdr. Jeremy Robertson, also delivering a lecture to NWC and SWSC staff, faculty and students; U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen; and personnel from other local commands, in NWC’s Spruance Auditorium.

The ship’s commanding officer, Cmdr. Jeremy Robertson, also delivered a lecture to NWC and SWSC staff, faculty and students; U.S. Naval Academy midshipmen; and personnel from other local commands, in NWC’s Spruance Auditorium. As part

of NWC’s Lectures of Opportunity (LOO) series, the discussion centered on Carney’s operations in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aiden, intercepting ballistic missiles and UAVs and conducting defensive strikes into Yemen.

Robertson credited the crew’s readiness with the quality of training the crew received prior to deployment.

“We trained as realistic as possible and threw a bunch of curveballs at the team,” he said. “And I think that really paid dividends, because we did get the deployment that nobody expected.”

He added that the crew’s success validated the efficacy of Navy training programs and investments made into the education and development of Sailors.

“We’re validating that everything we’re training to is really preparing the teams, the ships and the strike groups to go out and do their missions and have success.”

Tours of Carney were also offered, providing additional opportunities for personnel stationed onboard Naval Station Newport to interact with the crew.

Carney Sailors also had the chance to enjoy the local community and attractions in Newport while on liberty during the port visit.

The U.S.-led Operation Prosperity Guardian, a defensive coalition of more than 20 nations, continues to provide international maritime security in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

Culinary Specialist 1st Class Arlene Grejada teaches teens from the Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek and Fort Story youth centers how to create

basic borders for cakes during a hands-on training class at the Gator Inn Galley June 28. (U.S. NAVY

PHOTO BY APRIL PHILLIPS)

By William Dodge U.S. Naval War College

Blue Angels select officers for 2025 show season

By Petty Officer 1st Class Cody Deccio Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron

NAS PENSACOLA, Florida (NNS) — The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, selected five new officers to join the team for the 2025 air show season.

The squadron selected two F/A-18E/F Super Hornet pilots, a C-130J Super Hercules pilot, an Events Coordinator and a Flight Surgeon to replace outgoing team members.

By the start of the 2025 show season, these five officers will join the ranks of the U.S. Navy’s most elite aviation officers, ground support officers, and enlisted maintenance personnel already serving on the team.

“It’s always a challenge selecting new officers for the team because we have so many highly qualified applicants,” said Cdr. Alex Armatas, commanding officer and flight leader of the Blue Angels.“We are thrilled to introduce the new officers for the 2025 show season and excited to see what each of them bring to our demonstration team in 2025.”

Each year, the Blue Angels select finalists to interview at the team’s home base of Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., during the week of the Pensacola Beach Air Show; selections are made at the conclusion of that week. This year’s Pensacola Beach Air Show took place July 11-13.

The selected 2025 officers include:

F/A-18E/F Demonstration Pilots:

„ Maj. Brandon Wilkins, from Beaufort, South Carolina, is currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 31. He graduated from The Citadel in 2007.

„ Maj. Scott Laux, from Chantilly, Virginia is currently assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 125. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2012.

Events Coordinator:

„ Lcdr. Lilly Montana, from Vienna, Virgina, is currently assigned to VT-86. She graduated from Auburn University in 2010.

C-130J Demonstration Pilot:

„ Maj. Joshua Horman, from Smithville, Missouri, is currently assigned to VMGR-252. He graduated from

William Jewell College in 2009.

Flight Surgeon: „ Cmdr. Jen Murr, from Jackson Center, Ohio, is currently assigned to VR-56. She graduated from Xavier University in 2002.

The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the teamwork and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstrations and community outreach while inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country.

Follow us on Facebook: @USNavyBlueAngels and Instagram: @USNavyBlueAngels

For more news from the Blue Angels, please visit www. blueangels.navy.mil/.

New team members will report to the squadron in September for a two-month turnover period. Upon completion of the 2024 show season, which concludes in November with the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show at NAS Pensacola, the team will embark on a rigorous five-month training program at NAS Pensacola and Naval Air Facility El Centro, Calif.

Exercise helps prepare for emergency response

By Christy Trabun Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg

“Exercise! Exercise! Exercise!”

This week on the installation staff from Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg and Naval Support Activity Philadelphia teamed up for two days of training as a part of the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Incident Management Team Course. This in-person portion was Phase 2 of the training, and will help to keep members from both sites prepared and ready to help in case of emergency.

The training was conducted by the Shore Operations Training Group from Commander, Navy Installations Command based out of Norfolk, Va. The simulations included response to a tornado and a fire over multiple buildings with hazardous material as a part of the burn. The training is intended to provide key personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate an EOC and staff it appropriately with an Incident Management Team.

The group received high-praise for their cohesiveness in spite of combining personnel from two installations, for their enthusiasm and good attitudes, and for the overall knowledge understood and gained in the exercise.

MS Surface Pro 9 improves NAVFAC Washington’s construction project oversite operations

By Natasha Waldron Anthony Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Washington

The Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) Washington has taken a leap forward in technological efficiency with the implementation of the Microsoft (MS) Surface Pro 9. Under a pilot program, 25 devices were distributed throughout the various Facilities Engineering Command Washington locations. The objectives, through a partnership between Planning, Design and Construction (PDC) and Command Information Office (CIO), are to revolutionize mission capabilities in both the field and office environments, enhance productivity and streamline workflows.

PDC Director, Tom Cox expressed his appreciation for the collaboration. “The collaboration with CIO addresses a long-standing need to enhance our field staff’s effectiveness. These tools will improve both efficiency and job satisfaction.”

CIO Director, Jim Palumbo emphasized his department’s commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness. He said, “We are laser focused on finding every opportunity we can to better equip our teams in the field and happy to demonstrate the effectiveness of the Surface Pro.”

The MS Surface Pro 9, functions dually as a laptop and tablet, and is a Flank Speed managed device that offers secured versatility, allowing login via PIN or face recognition without a Common Access Card (CAC), although CAC is still required for certain functions.

Javier Molinari, construction director of PDC 5, emphasized the device’s adaptability. “It works great, allowing connectivity basically anywhere you have Wi-Fi. It is effective and promotes and enhances productivity. I think we’re moving into the future with the device.”

Its Organic Light Emitting Diode or OLED touchscreen has high contrast ratio that ensures clear viewing of detailed plans and construction documents, even in outdoor settings. “This device is excellent. I’m able to go out in the field and talk with contractors, pull up plans directly on the tablet and have a good conversation with them,” highlighted Ensign Matthew Satchwell, construction manager at PWD Washington.

Sean Hanlon, PDC 5, construction management specialist and Pilot Program manager noted the device offers ease of use with efficiency. “I have several people in Bethesda. They use it on a daily basis. In fact they’ve started taking the Surface Pro everywhere they go. All I’ve got is positive feedback. They love it.”

Engineering Technician Edwin Jones at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Patuxent River, confirms, “Having access in the field and being able to pull up drawings and specs - it’s convenient to have everything accessible on site.”

The Surface Pro 9 has a long battery life, lightweight design, multiple monitor connectivity and rear-facing camera for high-quality on-site visuals, features that

gained the nod of approval of the users. Jake Walter, an engineer technician at Resident Office in Charge of Construction at Joint Base Andrews, describes it as, “smarter, faster, better,” adding, “I don’t have to bring a camera anymore. I can upload photos into my file system right away.”

George Zabet, Engineering Technician at NSA Bethesda noted how impressed he was with its field capabilities. “The fact that we can access MS Teams when we’re right in the field... Things that we cannot do when we’re using a regular computer.”

The device has significantly improved the use of the electronic Construction Management System (eCMS) with its real-time access offering to project information in the field, ability to respond to Requests for Infor-

mation (RFIs) and close submittals on-site and easy access to drawings and specifications. According to Molinari, “Any construction manager or engineer Technician can log into eCMS and respond to an RFI at the job site while discussing with his contractor.” The overwhelmingly positive feedback from the pilot program users underscores the device’s potential to transform operational capabilities. NAVFAC Washington leadership wants to equip every employee with Surface Pro 9 devices within the next three to six months. Palumbo said, “We look forward to helping bring this capability across all of NAVFAC.”

NUWC Division Newport honors outstanding achievements in 2023 Annual Awards ceremony

By Public Affairs Office

Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport

NEWPORT, R.I. — Individual and team accomplishments from the 2023 calendar year were celebrated at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) Division Newport’s Annual Awards ceremony on June 20. There were 183 award winners in 26 award categories.

Roughly 200 employees reviewed 311 nominations to determine the winners. Division Newport Commanding Officer Capt. Chad Hennings congratulated the winners and thanked the nominees for their efforts.

“What all of the nominees have done in the past year is really quite incredible,” Hennings said. “Ultimately, what you do every day is develop and bring capabilities to the fleet. Thank you for all of your hard work in 2023.”

Technical Director Marie Bussiere welcomed everyone to the ceremony and noted that the awards are a reminder of the important work that takes place daily at Division Newport.

“These awards underscore why ‘What We Do Matters,’ ” Bussiere said. “Every day you demonstrate your unique support to the fleet and commitment to delivering critical capabilities to our warfighters.

Your accomplishments over the past year have further enhanced NUWC Division Newport’s reputation as a vital organization in the undersea enterprise and as a partner of choice, a tradition that began over 154 years ago.”

The Shallow Water Urgent Build (SWUB) In-Water Test and Evaluation Events Team, comprised of employees in several departments, won the prestigious Commander/Technical Director Award, which recognizes an outstanding contribution to Division Newport in the area of project management, engineering, scientific achievement, cost reduction, lifesaving, civic duties or any other appropriate achievements that reflects favorably upon the Division, its mission or its personnel.

Team members from the Undersea Warfare Weapons, Vehicles, and Defensive Systems Department include Rachael Amore, Sean Carcanague, Kyle Edwards, Kyle Fenton, Jason Lemish, Charles Lury, Jorge Martinez, Jay Patel, Abigail Reid, Winston Spencer, Amanda Thompson, Matthew Villanueva, Stefanie Zamorski and Michael Zhang. Other team members are Philipp Baumann and Mitchell Picard, both of the Undersea Warfare Combat Systems Department, Nicholas Raposa of the Undersea Warfare Engineering and Analysis Department, and Taylor Velasco of the Ranges, Engineering and Analysis Department. The team successfully planned and executed two highly complex and operationally significant exercises to provide the fleet with new time-critical warfighting capabilities. The first-of-its-kind exercise involved meticulous coordination across

multiple ships, a U.S. submarine, commercial aircraft, and Navy helicopters. The test plan included 20 firings against multiple targets in various configurations.

Tyler Revett, an engineer in Division Newport’s Sensor and Sonar Systems Department, was presented with the Outstanding New Employee Award. The award recognizes an employee who exhibits “growth far exceeding the normal expectations of an employee with the time in grade.”

In under two years of employment at Division Newport, Revett has demonstrated a desire to learn the technologies that enable development of advanced concept prototypes with a focus on innovation, the award states.

Revett has become the principal investigator of the Tactical Sandbox Applications Team, which develops, tests, and integrates modern, intuitive, HTML5 web-based training applications to teach Sailors fundamental topics in sonar, electronic warfare, underwater propagation, and acoustic analysis. In 2023, Revett provided Sandbox demonstrations to Division Newport personnel and stakeholders across the fleet.

Selected to join the Future Submarine Concept Design 219 Internal Investment Team, Revett has been working with a cross-department group to come up with a new SSN concept design for the future 2040-50 combat environment.

Caroline Diette, deputy director of Corporate Communications, served as the master of ceremonies for the ceremony.

“While our award winners represent the best of the best for 2023, all nominees should be proud of their successes over the past year − you are truly in elite company,” Diette said.

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.

Join our team! NUWC Division Newport, 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.

Jake Walter, Engineer Technician, Resident Office in Charge of Construction at Joint Base Andrews. (PHOTO BY NATASHA WALDRON ANTHONY, NAVAL FACILITIES ENGINEERING SYSTEMS COMMAND WASHINGTON)

Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport Technical Director Marie Bussiere (left) and Commanding Officer Capt. Chad Hennings (right) present Tyler Revett, an engineer in Division Newport’s Sensor and Sonar Systems Department, the Outstanding New Employee Award during the 2023 Annual Awards ceremony held on June 20, 2024. The award recognizes an employee who exhibits “growth far exceeding the normal expectations of an employee with the time in grade.” (PHOTO BY PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE, NAVAL UNDERSEA WARFARE CENTER DIVISION NEWPORT)

Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport Technical Director Marie Bussiere (left) and Commanding Officer Capt. Chad Hennings (right) present members of the Shallow Water

Urgent Build (SWUB) In-Water Test and Evaluation Events Team the prestigious Commander/ Technical Director Award, during the 2023 Annual Awards ceremony held on June 20, 2024. The award recognizes an outstanding contribution to Division Newport in the area of project management, engineering, scientific achievement, cost reduction, lifesaving, civic duties or any other

achievements that reflects favorably upon the Division, its mission or its personnel. Team members from the Undersea Warfare Weapons, Vehicles, and Defensive Systems Department include Rachael Amore, Sean Carcanague, Kyle Edwards, Kyle Fenton, Jason Lemish, Charles Lury, Jorge Martinez, Jay Patel, Abigail Reid, Winston Spencer, Amanda Thompson, Matthew Villanueva, Stefanie Zamorski and Michael Zhang. Other team members are Philipp Baumann and Mitchell Picard, both of the Undersea Warfare Combat Systems Department, Nicholas Raposa of the Undersea Warfare Engineering and Analysis Department, and Taylor Velasco of the Ranges,

U.S. Navy sailor returns home to Maine for Fourth of July celebration onboard USS Forrest Sherman

By Ensign Aimsley Unbehagen

USS Forrest Sherman

Petty Officer Second Class Tobias Francis, age 29, joined the Navy on December 3, 2020 as a Sonar Technician (STG). Sonar Technicians are responsible for the operation of underwater systems and undersea surveillance of naval vessels. He is currently stationed on the USS Lassen (DDG 82), homeported in Naval Station Mayport, and has been a member of the crew for three

years. Within his division, he holds the position of Work Center Supervisor, taking on the responsibility of the completion of preventative and corrective maintenance on equipment within the ships Weapons Department. STG2 Francis also assists with the SafeTALK Program onboard, an avenue for Sailors to seek the resources needed to cope with suicidal thoughts and actions.

STG2 Francis was raised and attended school on the Pleasant Point Reservation between Passamaquoddy Bay and the city

of Eastport. Numerous family and friends still live on the reservation, many who attended the Eastport Fourth of July Celebration to see him march in the Grand Independence Parade alongside Commander Dave Zieroth, USS FORREST SHERMAN’s Commanding Officer. As the crowd chanted his name, STG2 Francis reunited with his wife, Catherine, two children Nalani and Jasper, and his mother. To finish out his time in Eastport, he enjoyed the comfort of home with his relatives and close acquaintances.

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center’s

By Oscar Pope Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance

Center

NORFOLK, Va. — This month, Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance (MARMC) Center recognizes an Elkhart, Indiana native, Steven ‘Toby’ Kondzella.

As Project Manager (PM) for USS San Antonio (LPD 17), Kondzella is being recognized for overcoming significant setbacks during San Antonio’s Selected Restricted Availability (SRA).

“The biggest challenge was the Modernization Package,” said Kondzella. “The Modernization Package is the process of bringing a ship up-to-date with fitment. There were over 50 ship alterations, but the solution is teamwork and motivation. It’s nice when you have a great team, it makes the difference.”

Landing Platform Dock Division Manager, Doug Ellis, applauds Kondzella’s work ethic saying, “He is relentless when it comes to completing assigned work and he has incredible attention to detail.”

Having recently completed a Selected Restricted Availability (SRA) while overcoming numerous delays from material to production, Kondzella’s perseverance

propelled him to finish the availability resulting in 1246 processed Requests for Contract Change (RCCs) and 30 Condition Found Reports (CFRs) in the planning phase of the availability.

“He’s disciplined, organized, takes his work seriously, and consistently goes above and beyond expectations,’ said Troy Hoover, class team lead. “Bottom line, he stays focused and on task until the job is done. He excels at prioritizing tasks and keeps meticulous records to ensure all events needing attention are addressed. He’s like the Energizer Bunny — he takes a licking but keeps on ticking.”

Kondzella joined the Navy from Cleveland, Ohio and later attended John Carroll University. He commissioned in 1983 and spent 20 years as a Surface Warfare Officer (SWO). After retiring from the Navy in 2003, Kondzella worked as a government contractor until getting his new role as a Project Manager for San Antonio.

MARMC, a field activity under Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), provides surface ship maintenance, management and oversight of private sector maintenance and fleet technical assistance to ships in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.

“It was a once in a lifetime experience and it opened my eyes to what the Navy is and can be. The FORREST SHERMAN has a very hospitable crew and they integrated well with the community of Eastport, making it feel even more special,” STG2 Francis expressed as the ship departed and said goodbye to the lovely city and surrounding areas of Eastport, Maine.

US Navy Sailor, STG2 Tobias Francis, returned home on July 2, 2024 and sees his family in the crowd who gathered to welcome the USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). (PHOTO BY ENSIGN AIMSLEY

UNBEHAGEN, USS FORREST SHERMAN)

July Civilian in the Spotlight

Steven “Toby” Kondzella takes time to smile for the camera after being recognized for his efforts as Project Manager for USS San Antonio (LPD 17) July 2024. (PHOTO BY OSCAR POPE, MIDATLANTIC REGIONAL MAINTENANCE CENTER)

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: STG2 Francis marching front and center alongside Commander Dave Zieroth, USS Forrest Sherman’s Commanding Officer. STG2 Francis hugging his mother along the parade route. STG2 Francis with his wife, Catherine, and children along the parade route. (PHOTO BY ENSIGN AIMSLEY UNBEHAGEN, USS FORREST SHERMAN)

On iberty

Kearsarge Sailors attend a fly fishing retreat

By Petty Officer 3rd Class Oscar Pichardo

USS Kearsarge (LHD 3)

HIGHLAND COUNTY, Va. — Sailors assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) teamed up with the Cross the Divide organization for a spiritual fly-fishing retreat in Highland County, Virginia, June 9th through the 12th, 2024.

Cross the Divide is a veteran owned organization whose mission is to help veterans and their families reconnect with nature while promoting healing, hope, strength and growth. Lt. Cmdr. Roberts Hess, a chaplain assigned Kearsarge, worked closely with the Cross the Divide organization to provide this special opportunity.

Hess believes events like these not only to help with Sailor’s spiritual health, but their physical and mental health as well.

“These types of events provide a rich environment for our Sailors and veterans to tap into their spirit,” said Hess. “It is the strength of spirit that enables war fighters to accomplish the mission with honor, strength and resiliency.”

Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class Ron Wood, a Sailor that attended the event, believes it is the individuals’ responsibility to work on themselves. When Lt. Levi Dukes, another chaplain assigned to the Kearsarge, approached Wood personally to encourage him to attend the event, Wood decided it was a perfect opportunity to put his belief into practice.

While on the retreat, Wood stated he was glad to take a step back from the Kearsarge’s current maintenance period in BAE Norfolk shipyard. Wood said even though his work is not a burden, getting his stress out in nature does help his mental resiliency.

Information Systems Technician 1st Class Evan Ermey, a Gold Bar, Washington native, was another Sailor encouraged by his chain of command to attend the retreat.

“I mean partially it was my divisional officer that said ‘Hey there’s a fishing trip, you want to go?’ and I naturally said yes,” said Ermey. “I later found out it was a spiritual retreat.”

Ermey explained that the timing of this event was perfect as it gave him a moment to take a step back to reflect on the importance of maintaining positive relationships in the workplace and the crew.

“I definitely think this needs to be a continuous thing with the Cross the Divide group or separately,” said Ermey. “I think it’s important to build connections with the divisions together and their chain of command.”

With a newfound connection to the crew and a refined mental resiliency Kearsarge sailors are able to navigate all future challenges the Kearsarge mission may present as the ship leaves its scheduled maintenance period. Kearsarge is scheduled to leave BAE Naval Shipyard later this year.

Armed Forces Brewing Company hosts 1st Annual Christmas in July Food & Toy Drive to benefit military families

NORFOLK, Va. — Armed Forces Brewing Company announces its 1st Annual Christmas in July Food & Toy Drive in support of military families will take place on Thursday, July 25th, 2024, from 4-9 PM at the Armed Forces Brewing Company taproom located at 211 W 24th St., Norfolk, VA. Win Santa’s swag bags

Come help spread Christmas cheer in July by donating non-perishable food items and toys for a chance to win Santa’s Swag Bags. Each donation of a food or toy item nets one raffle ticket, increasing chances to win for generous givers (aka, Santa’s Helpers). The collected donations will provide meals for over 90 families through the American Legion Post 37’s food pantry on Saturday, August 1st. Suggested non-perishable food donations include: canned meats or fish, rice, pasta, spaghetti sauce, olive oil, mac & cheese, canned vegetables, beans, soup and fruit, oatmeal, shelf stable meals and peanut butter.

“At Armed Forces Brewing Company, we are committed to giving back to our military families who sacrifice so much for our country. This event is our way of saying thank you and spreading some much- needed cheer and support for junior ranked military family members who, unfortunately, are at risk for facing food insecurity,” said Alan Beal, CEO of Armed Forces Brewing Company.

Christmas in July at Armed Forces Brewing Company includes:

„ Meet Surfin’ Santa: A special appearance by Surfin’ Santa to delight guests of all ages.

„ Liberty Call Happy Hour: Enjoy special happy hour deals from 1600-1900.

„ Tropical Attire Encouraged: Embrace the summer vibe by dressing in your best tropical attire.

„ Frozen Slushee Specials: Cool off with our delicious frozen slushees.

„ Food Trucks: Savor a variety of delectable treats from local food trucks.

„ Christmas & Beach Jams: Groove to a mix of festive Christmas and beach tunes.

„ Meet & Greet Brewery Tours: Special Events Manager Helena Johnson will lead tours of the brewery and assist in booking holiday parties.

So don’t be a Grinch! Come out and celebrate Christmas in July with Armed Forces Brewing Company and support our military families! Military Commands and families are encouraged to attend this canine and family-friendly event. To learn more about Armed Forces Brewing Company visit ArmedForcesBrewingCo. com. To book your holiday party at the brewery, please contact Helena Johnson at (757) 900-2322.

About Armed Forces Brewing Company: Armed Forces Brewing Company, a military tribute brewing company, pays homage

to the Military, First Responders, Veterans, American Patriots, and their families. Founded in 2019 and built by a team that includes an award-winning brewmaster, experienced leaders from the restaurant and hospitality industry and military veterans, Armed Forces Brewing Company continues to expand its operations and distribu-

ingco.com.

HIGHLAND COUNTY, Va (June 11, 2024)- Sailors assigned to the Wasp class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), pose for group photo during a spiritual readiness fly-fishing retreat

hosted by Cross the Divide, June 11, 2024. Kearsarge is currently undergoing

Shipyards.

ABOVE: HIGHLAND COUNTY, Va (June 11, 2024)- Lt. George Couvillon (left), assigned to the USS Kearsarge, learns how to cast a fishing rod. RIGHT: Aviation Maintenance Administrationman 1st Class Ronald Wood, also assigned to the USS Kearsarge, fishes during a spiritual readiness fly-fishing retreat hosted by Cross the Divide, June 11, 2024.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS, NEWS AND PHOTOS

The Flagship welcomes submissions from our readers online. Please submit events here: www.militarynews.com/users/admin/calendar/event/ Please submit news and photos here: www.militarynews.com/norfolk-navy-flagship/submit_news/

VCW Presents the Liberty Lottery, starring Paul London, in Norfolk on July 27th!

By Sam Saunders

Virginia Championship Wrestling’s biggest show of the year, Liberty Lottery, will emanate from the Norfolk Masonic Temple in Norfolk, Virginia on Saturday, July 27th! The event is packed with big matches, including the VCW in-ring return of former WWE Tag Team Champion and WWE Cruiserweight Champion, Paul London. Additionally, WWE legend The Brooklyn Brawler, brought to you by Mega Star Wrestling, will be making his first-ever independent professional wrestling appearance in Virginia! The thirty-plus year veteran of WWE will be appearing for autographs and photos with fans. Other matches include the 17th annual Liberty Lottery Match, a Granby Street Fight, and a Triple Threat Match for the Virginia Heavyweight Championship. The address of the Norfolk Masonic Temple is 7001 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23505. Tickets and more information can be found at vcwprowrestling.com. Doors will open at 6:30pm, with the show beginning at 7:30pm. Liberty Lottery looks to be a night to remember! Paul London was last seen in VCW at this same event in 2012: Liberty Lottery. That night, he defended his VCW Liberty Championship in an acclaimed ladder match against “Diamond” Victor Griff. Griff not only won the championship in that match, as he also won the respect of London. Now, Griff and his Golden Pinky Society partner Benjamin Banks find themselves outnumbered against Commander King, Sir Big AC and Sir Cassius Carter. The Golden Pinky Society looks to even the odds at Liberty Lottery as they have challenged the trio to a 6-man tag team match against themselves and their once-foe, Paul London!

This isn’t the only must-see match of Liberty Lottery, as the Boar looks to finally remove the metaphorical thorn in his side of The Reason and “The Director” Jerry Stephanitsis. The Reason and Stephanitsis have done their best to ruin the Boar’s career in VCW since November when they cost him his Virginia Heavyweight Championship. Issues have not ended there, as The Reason infamously attacked the Boar’s leg with a steel chair and cost him months of his career. The Boar looks to invoke vengeance in the form of a Granby Street Fight between himself and The Reason. This match has no disqualifications or count-outs; the only way to win is by pinfall or submission. With rules out the window, months of tension is sure to reach its breaking point.

Since regaining the VCW Liberty Championship in March, Saul Esparza and his manager Neil Sharkey have taken every shortcut to continue his hold on the title. Meanwhile, Chris Slade has fought valiantly to show that success can be found honorably. Now, Slade has directed his attention to Esparza and the Liberty Championship. The result of their now-sanctioned title match is tough to call, however. Slade has found frequent success by taking the high road, but Esparza has proven unmatched when taking opportunities that others, like Slade, will not. On the topic of “opportunistic” champions, the VCW Tag Team Champions Delinquents have broken every rule in the book to keep their titles. Their confidence influenced Mikey Banker and Josh Fuller to issue an open challenge for their championship at Liberty Lottery, which has been answered by Myron Malone and Alex Divine. While they have independently connected with audiences, it appears that both men could benefit from having someone in their corner. Usually a match between a new team and partners as cohesive as Delinquents would be won by the latter decisively, but Malone and Divine’s past performances indicate that they may be a perfect match for the tag team division.

Since winning the Virginia Heavyweight Championship in November, Joseph Keys has conquered all challengers. But at Liberty Lottery, “Top G” will not just be facing one man that wants his gold: he will be defending his championship in a Triple Threat Match against “Greek God” Papadon and “The Hoss of all Hosses” Devantes! Last month at the Masonic Temple, Keys and Papadon teamed together against Devantes and the Boar, but it was clear after the match that both Devantes and Papadon wanted to call

themselves ‘Virginia Heavyweight Champion.’ An argument can be made in support of any man in the match, making this a mustsee fight.

Liberty Lottery will also feature its trademark match, as twenty wrestlers will compete in the 17th annual Liberty Lottery Match! The match begins with two people in the ring with a wrestler entering every thirty seconds. Elimination occurs by going over the top rope with both feet touching the floor. This continues until one person is left standing, with that person earning a VCW title match of their choosing. Entrants this year include “Mush Master” Tim Spriggs, Phil Brown, Tim Loulies, and Rex Lawless. Spriggs has been named as a top pick for the match after his fantastic match with

Matt Riddle in May, while Brown is in an illustrious group of former Liberty Lottery winners. A win for Spriggs would be huge for his career, but Brown’s experience gives him a helpful edge most lack. Loulies lasted over forty five minutes in last year’s match, although most of that was spent unconscious at ringside. One cannot discredit Lawless, though, who may be the dark horse of the entire match. His dominance of last year’s match was shown by his record-number of eliminations. Who will leave Liberty Lottery with a career-defining win and championship opportunity?

General admission tickets will be available at the door for July 27th in the Norfolk Masonic Temple, but guarantee a seat by purchasing a ticket at vcwprowrestling.com.

Doors will open at 6:30pm for the chance to meet The Brooklyn Brawler, presented by Mega Star Wrestling, with bell time at 7:30pm. Don’t miss the biggest VCW show of the year!

Virginia Championship Wrestling would also like to extend their condolences to the family and friends of beloved VCW wrestler, Jermaine “Dirty Money” Robinson. Robinson was known in the world of wrestling for his incredible in-ring work in the mid-Atlantic region and his bond with his fans, but he was known outside of the ring for being a great friend and an even better father. Jermaine Robinson will be greatly missed.

(COURTESY OF VIRGINIA CHAMPIONSHIP WRESTLING)

Alex Divine high risk move of the top rope as he gets ready to land on Saul Esparza. (PHOTO BY JONATHAN MCLARTY)

The Pinky Society (Benjamin Banks on the left and “Diamond” Victor Griff on the right) dropping their patented elbows on their helpless opponent. (PHOTO BY JONATHAN MCLARTY)

Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken & Rice

Skillet Greek Lemon Chicken and Rice couldn’t be easier to make and is ideal for a weeknight dinner! Hearty chicken thighs are marinated in Greek spices, garlic and lemon juice then nestled on top of herbed rice and baked to perfection!

Yield: 5 Servings

Ingredients

Chicken

„ 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

„ 1 tablespoon olive oil

„ Zest of a lemon

„ 3 tablespoons lemon juice

„ 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced

„ 2 teaspoons dried oregano, rubbed between the palms of your hands

„ 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

„ 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

„ Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

Rice

„ 1 tablespoon olive oil

„ 1/2 cup diced yellow onion

„ 3 cloves garlic, grated or minced

„ 2 teaspoons dried oregano, rubbed between the palms of your hands

„ 1 teaspoon dried dill

„ 1 cup uncooked rice, I used Jasemine rice

„ 2 cups low sodium chicken broth

Instructions Place the chicken thighs in a freezer bag or medium sized bowl. In a small bowl whisk together the remaining chicken ingredients and pour over the chicken thighs. Massage the marinade into the chicken, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Heat a couple teaspoons of olive a large oven safe skillet over medium-high heat, swirl to coat the bottom. Add the chicken thighs being careful not to crowd them and cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping them over half way through the cooking time. Remove the chicken from the skillet onto a

plate, it should not be fully cooked. Lower the heat to medium and add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, swirl to coat the bottom. Add in the onion and sauté 2 minutes. Add in the garlic, oregano and dill and sauté another 30 seconds. Stir the rice into the mixture and then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil then cover with a lid or foil and put it in the preheated oven. Cook the rice for 15 minutes then remove it from the oven and nestle the chicken into it. Cover and bake another 10-15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed, rice is tender and chicken is cooked through. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and garnish with chopped flat leaf parsley and fresh dill if desired.

Lemon Parmesan Asparagus

This roasted lemon parmesan asparagus is a quick and easy side dish that can be ready to eat in 20 minutes! Made with 5 simple ingredients, but packed with delicious flavors!

Yield: 4 Servings

Ingredients

„ 1 pound asparagus

„ 1 tablespoon olive oil

„ Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste

„ Zest of a lemon

„ 1/2 lemon, juiced

„ 3 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat grill to high heat. In a large bowl or sheet pan, drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat then lay them onto the heated grill. Grill for 3-5 minutes or to desired tenderness. Roll or turn them once to get grill marks on both top sides. Remove the asparagus to a serving platter and top with lemon zest, lemon juice and shredded parmesan cheese.

Lemon Cheesecake Bars

These lemon cheesecake bars are dense, rich, creamy, and full of bright and tangy fresh lemon flavor! They’re easy to make and the perfect sweet treat for spring and summer!

Yield: 9 bars

Ingredients

Crust

„ 6 graham crackers

„ 3 tablespoons melted butter

„ 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Lemon Cheesecake

„ 8 ounces low fat cream cheese room temperature

„ 16 ounces low fat cottage cheese

„ 2 eggs

„ 1/2 cup sugar

„ Zest and juice of 1 lemon

„ 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

„ 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray a 9×9 baking pan with cooking spray. Add the graham crackers to a food processor and pulse until they’re fine crumbs. Add in the melted butter and sugar and pulse until the mixture becomes coarse and sandy.

Dump the mixture into the baking pan and spread it into an even layer. Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to firmly pack down the crust. Bake for 6-7 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges. Let the crust cool while you make the filling.

Wipe out the bowl of the food processor and add all of the cheesecake ingredients. Purée until smooth scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Pour the filling onto the crust and smooth it out into an even layer with a rubber spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center still slightly jiggles. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. Before serving drizzle with lemon curd, if desired.

Lemon Blueberry Baked Oatmeal

Lemon blueberry baked oatmeal is made with fresh lemon zest and juice and studded with sweet juicy blueberries! This nutritious lemon baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep, a lazy weekend breakfast, or an afternoon snack.

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

„ 1 3/4 cup milk of choice

„ 1 egg

„ 1/4 cup maple syrup

„ 1 teaspoon lemon zest

„ Juice of a lemon (approximately 1/4 cup)

„ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

„ 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder optional

„ 1 teaspoon baking powder

„ 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

„ 2 cups rolled oats

„ 1 1/2 cups blueberries

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350° F. and spray a 8×8 or similar size baking dish with cooking oil.

In a large bowl whisk together the egg, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, lemon zest and lemon juice. Whisk in the salt, baking powder, and protein power. Stir in the oats and blueberries until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until set and pulling away from the edges of the dish. Let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. Top with lemon Greek yogurt if desired.

Easily manage TRICARE prescriptions with the Express Scripts Pharmacy mobile app

By TRICARE Communications

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — Looking for a convenient way to keep track of your medications? Want to see the status of your prescriptions before you head to the pharmacy? Download the free Express Scripts Pharmacy mobile app to securely manage your medications anytime, anywhere. Express Scripts is the TRICARE Pharmacy Program contractor that administers your pharmacy benefit.

“The mobile app is an easy way to stay on top of your prescriptions, especially when you use TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery,” said U.S. Public Health Service Cmdr. Teisha Robertson, deputy chief of the Pharmacy Benefit Integration Branch at the Defense Health Agency. “It helps you keep track of your medications, request refills, and make payments, at your convenience, no matter where you are.”

To get started, download the app for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play

Store. Then log in using your TRICARE Express Scripts username and password. If you don’t have an account, you can register for one. Once logged in, you can:

„ Order medications. You can see all your prescriptions in one place. You can choose to fill your prescriptions through TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery. Prescriptions ordered via home delivery will be delivered right to your door. You can even set up shipments to a temporary address during deployment, relocation, or vacation. TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery will ship to any address in the U.S. or U.S. territories, including APO/FPO addresses. To learn more about home delivery, including costs and any applicable shipping restrictions, visit TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery (online at https://www.tricare.mil/homedelivery).

„ Track home delivery orders. You’ll get real-time updates when Express Scripts processes, ships, and delivers your order.

To view the status of your order online, log in to your account. Go to “Prescriptions,” and then “Order History.” Check “Recent Order Status” to track your order.

„ Request refills. Review and approve prescriptions that are ready to refill through TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery.

„ Set up dose reminders. Stay on track with automated alerts reminding you when it’s time to take your medications. This will help you stick to your routine and avoid missing any doses.

„ Make payments. You can easily pay for prescriptions online or set up automatic payments for home delivery orders. As described in the TRICARE Costs and Fees Fact Sheet, active duty service members have a $0 copayment for up to a 90-day supply of medication if they use a military pharmacy, TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery, or a retail network pharmacy.

Have questions about your pharmacy benefit or prescription costs? Check out the TRICARE Pharmacy Program Overview Fact Sheet (online at https://www.tricare. mil/Publications/Fact-Sheets/pharmacy_ overview) and TRICARE Costs and Fees Sheet (online at https://tricare.mil/Publications/Costs/costs_fees ) for more information. It’s easy to manage and track your prescriptions using the Express Scripts Pharmacy mobile app. Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to download it for free.

Would you like the latest TRICARE news sent to you by email? Visit TRICARE Subscriptions, and create your personalized profile to get benefit updates, news, and more.

The Express Scripts Pharmacy mobile app is a convenient way to stay on top of your prescriptions. It helps you keep track of your medications, request refills, and make payments, and more.