Flagship 09.14.2023

NAVSTA Norfolk’s MWR holds monthly Bowl-A-Rama Bowl-A-Rama is a familyfriendlyevent created to build comraderyand give families an opportunityto meet in a fun,engaging and interactive setting PAGEA2

Naval Station Norfolk hosts the annual Run with the Chiefs

ByMC2JosephT.Miller

NORFOLK,Va NavalStation(NAVSTA)

Norfolk’s Chief Petty Officer Mess and Morale Wellness and Recreation (MWR) department hosted the 2023 Run with the Chiefs 5k onboard NAVSTA Norfolk, Sept. 8. This year marks the 20th anniversary of theeventwhichstartedin2003,andthefirst RunwiththeChiefs5ksince2019.

Over 3,200 chiefs, senior chiefs, master chiefs, and chief petty officer (CPO) selectees and participants from throughout the region ran in support of the FY-24 CPO selectees singing cadence and holding guidon flags high to celebrate Navy Chief Prideandunity

The Run with the Chiefs 5k is one of the events that takes place during the six-week

initiationofchiefpettyofficerselects,known internally as “Chief Season.” During this time period, the selectees must go through varioustrialsandeventswhichwillprepare them to take on the role and be pinned as a full-fledgedchiefpettyofficer.

“The Run with the Chiefs was originally establishedtogetsupportfortheNavyChief Scholarship fund,” said NAVSTA Norfolk’s Command Master Chief, Angelo Rappa “It started out pretty small, but over the years ithasgrownintosomethingsotremendous that the entire installation and the entire regionlookforwardtoparticipatinginit.So thisyearwearereallyhappybecausethisis the first year we’ve done it since 2019, and we have over 3,000 entries We are looking forwardtoagreatrun.”

Participants began to arrive while the

sun was rising, with Chiefs and Chief Selectees gathering with their respective commands to get in formation to march across NAVSTA Norfolk’s parade field and sing cadences. While the selectees were in formation, both Capt. Janet Days, commanding officer of NAVSTA Norfolk, andCapt.DavidDees,NavyRegionMid-Atlantic’sChiefofStaff,cametoeachdivision and rated their guidon flags

“I think the Run with the Chiefs event helps show the power of the mess; that we can reach out and get everyone on schedule for this type of team building event,” saidGasTurbineSystemTechnicianSenior Chief Petty Officer Rafal Srednicki, one of thechiefswhohelpedorganizetheevent “It helps build a network, and helps the Chief Selects realize that there are not multiple

ChiefsMesses,justoneMess It’salsoniceto see that not just the Chiefs and commands, butthefamiliescameouttosupportus.”

The run began at 8:30 a.m with the runners taking off from in front of the NAVSTA Norfolk’s Head Quarters (N-26) andheadingdownGilbertStreet.Thevarious divisions of Chiefs and Chief Selects ran together in formation, once again shouting cadences

The5k’spathledtherunnersthroughthe base, going by various locations such as the piersandVistaPoint.

TherunconcludedatMcClureFieldbaseball stadium. Following the 5k a cookout was held at McClure Field, where runners enjoyedacookout,livemusicandadditional festivities

Suicide prevention course hosted by NSA Hampton Roads Base Chapel

ByCommander,NavalAirForceAtlantic

Service members gathered at the Naval Support Activities (NSA) Hampton Roads Chapel to participate in a course called safeTALK Studentswhograduatethisfree,threehourcoursewillleavewiththetoolsnecessary to watch for, prevent, and aid people who suffer from suicidal tendencies or ideations aswellasmonitortheirownmentalhealth.

The acronym “SAFE” in the program’s namestandsfor“SuicideAlertnessforEveryone,” as the acronym “TALK stands for the steps to take in response to recognizing signs of suicidal ideations: Tell, Ask, Listen, and Keepsafe.

ChiefAviationBoatswain’sMate(Launch/ Recovery) Ryan Cuppernall, the certified safeTALK instructor in the Norfolk branch, led the program He is currently stationed at NavalAirForceAtlantic(AIRLANT)andhas beenasafeTALKinstructorforthreeyears.

“What I want for students to graduate this courseis tobe able tolistentootherswhoare struggling with suicide and be able to pass on these lessons to others,” said Cuppernall. “If theseskillsbecomemorepracticedandwidespread,wecancreateaworldwithoutsuicide.”

SafeTALK is a free program by Livingworks a non-profit, non-military oriented organization focused on suicide prevention. The course is open to all military and civil servantsforattendance

“I’m very glad to have taken this course,”

saidInformationSystemsTechnician3rdClass

Olivia Vesek who is stationed at AIRLANT “This course helps takes suicide from the taboothatverymuchexistsintheNavy.”

September is nationally recognized as Suicide Awareness month and the program’s coordinator, Navy Chaplain Cmdr Calel Butler, welcomes all service members and civilianstoattendthefuturesessions

“Suicide is a human issue, it’s everywhere. Andwerequirehumanbeingstohelpwithit,” statedButler

The NSA Hampton Roads Chapel offers moresafeTALKsessionsinthefuturewiththe next session taking place on Sept. 15th starting at 9 am. More scheduled sessions can be found on the NSA Hampton Roads Chapel Facebookpage.

More resources for suicide prevention can befoundatthefollowinglinks:

„

NavySuicidePrevention https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/

Support-Services/Culture-Resilience/ Suicide-Prevention/ „

MarineCorpsSuicidePreventionhttps:// www.manpower.usmc.mil/webcenter/portal/BehavioralProgramsBranch/ pages_behavioralprogramsbranch/ suicidepreventioncapability

„

NavyMentalHealthPlaybook https://www.mynavyhr.navy.mil/ Support-Services/Culture-Resilience/Leaders-Toolkit/Mental-Health-Playbook/

NORFOLK,Va (Aug.9,2023)- ChiefAviation Boatswain’s Mate (Launch/Recovery) Ryan Cuppernall leads a SafeTALKtraining forcivilians and Sailors stationed aboard Naval SupportActivityHampton Roads.SafeTALKis a 3-hourcourse providing traineeswith the tools required to identify respond,and monitorpersonnel strugglingwith suicidal ideations. (U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYLT J.G.JACQUELINER.RAMOS)

Smithsonian restores, displays ‘Crash’ Truck used at Pentagon on 9/11

On

NAVSTA Norfolk’s MWR holds monthly Bowl-A-Rama

ByBoatswainMatePettyOfficer

ThirdClassJessicaNunes

NORFOLK,Va NavalStation(NAVSTA)

Norfolk’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Department held their monthly Bowl-A-Rama at Pierside Entertainment Center, Sept. 6. Bowl-A-Rama is a family friendly event created to build comradery and give families an opportunity to meet in afun,engagingandinteractivesetting

“Bowl-A-Ramahasbeengoingonforover

five years,” said Vershawd Coleman, MWR Liberty Coordinator Assistant. “Being on such a massive Navy base, this helps our patronswhohavefreetimeoutsideofwork to relax and have some fun. It is one of our most popular programs We get around 20-30peopleonthefirstandthirdWednesdayofeachmonth.

Bowl-A-Rama kicked off at 5 p.m., after all the participants signed at the front desk. ShoeswereprovidedbutSailorsweremore than welcome to bring their own gear Eachteamwasassignedabowlinglaneand received a pass for a free meal of choice at thebowlingalleyrestaurant

“This is my third Bowl-A-Rama and I haven’t missed one since it started,” said Sonar Technician Petty Officer Third Class Raymond Fenby, from the USS Harvey C. BarnumJr(DDG124).“It’sagreatdeal!You don’t have to live off base to do it plus you getafreemealandbowling It’sawesome!”

ThenextBowl-A-RamaisSept.20atPiersideLanes(CEP127)

NORFOLK,Va (Sept.7,2023) Sailors bowl during Naval Station Norfolk’s Morale,Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Bowl-A-Rama at Pierside Entertainment Center,Sept 7.Bowl-A-Rama is a bi-monthlyevent created to build comraderyand give Sailors an opportunityto meet in a fun, engaging and interactive setting (COURTESYPHOTO)

MARMC’s Dynamic holds change of command

ByStaffSgt.DanielleLofton

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center’s (MARMC) Dynamic(AFDL6)drydockheldachangeof commandceremonyatJointExpeditionary BaseLittleCreek,Sept.7.

After assuming command in January 2022,Dynamic’scommandingofficer,Cmdr Alden Argante was relieved by Lt Cmdr JohnnyStevenson.

“Forthelasttwoyears Cmdr Argantehas led Dynamic and his crew of 35 outstanding Sailors through significant milestones and amazing accomplishments supporting fleet readiness,” said MARMC Commanding Officer Capt Jay Young, who served as theceremony’sguestspeaker.“Al,thankyou foreverythingyouhaveaccomplishedwhile servingastheDynamicCO,andcongratulationsonajobextremelywelldone.”

Duringhiscommand,Argantesupported 12 ship dry-dockings in his first three months of command, salvaged $300,000 of docking wood from the USS Iwo Jima (LHD7)projectteam,safelyandeffectively completedtwo18-monthDEIsafetyinspections,andsuccessfullyexecutedtheunprecedentedmajordry-dockingoverhaulofboth DynamicanditscompanionbargeYFND30

“To the crew of Dynamic, being in command is a humbling experience and I couldn’t have been more proud to have led a phenomenal group of professionals,” said Argante “Dynamic’smission is challenging and diverse, but you made it look easy. I am honoredtohaveservedwithyouforthepast 20 months You truly represent the best of theNavyandthisnation.”

Argante and his team spearheaded the safe execution of a 13-month dry-docking maintenance overhaul, the first major overhaul in over 10 years The project consisted of 90 work packages, 15 major ship alterations, and two major Naval Facilities projects Argante will continue his career as the Staff Engineer and Senior Inspector for Ships Material Assessment and Readiness

VIRGINIABEACH,Va - Capt.JayYoung Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center(MARMC) commanding officer,gives his speech during the change ofcommand forAuxiliaryFloating DryDockDynamic (AFDL6),Sept 7,2023 atJoint ExpeditionaryBase Little Creek-Fort Story.Dynamic provides dry-docking services forMine Countermeasure (MCM) and Patrol Coastal (PC) ships,Landing Craft Utility(LCU) and similarsized service crafts (U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYHARRISONCOX).

TestwiththeMilitarySealiftCommand.

Dynamic was commissioned March 11, 1944, and has been the only Navy operated AFDLincommissionsince2011.Thesingle rigid piece, through-type floating dry-dock iscapableofdockingMineCountermeasure (MCM)andPatrolCoastal(PC)ships,Landing Craft Utility (LCU) and similar sized service crafts It’s ported at Joint Expedi-

tionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story where it provides docking services in support of MARMC’sshiprepairmission.

“I am blessed to be taking this job as Dynamic’s commanding officer,” said Stevenson. “Thank you, Capt. Young, for this leadership opportunity. I look forward to working for you sir Thank you, Cmdr Argante, for turning over such a great

command,andI’llcontinuetopushtheteam togreaterheightsduringmytour.”

MARMC,afieldactivityunderNavalSea Systems Command (NAVSEA), provides surface ship maintenance, management andoversightofprivatesectormaintenance andfleettechnicalassistancetoshipsinthe Mid-AtlanticregionoftheUnitedStates.

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takes command of Military Sealift Command as Wettlaufer retires

By Hendrick Dickson USN Military Sealift Command

Rear Adm. Michael Wettlaufer turnedoverthehelmascommander ofMilitarySealiftCommandtoRear

Adm. Philip E. Sobeck during a changeofcommandandretirement ceremonyaboardtheaircraftcarrier

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69)atNavalStationNorfolk,Sept.8.

Hundreds of service members family and distinguished guests attended the ceremony including; Commander, U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM)

Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, who served as presiding officer for the change of command ceremony, and Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command Adm.DarylCaudle who was presiding officer for the retirement ceremony.

Wettlaufer, the 28th commander ofMSC,assumedthereignsinJune 2019, just months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, he stood up a crisis action and long-range planning teams to preserve the health of the force at-sea and ashore, limiting spread of the virus and resulting in zero mission days lost.

At the President’s direction, Wettlaufer rapidly activated, deployed, kept safe and sustained USNSComfort(T-AH20)andUSNS Mercy(T-AH19)todelivercriticalmedical caretoAmericansinNewYorkCityandLos Angeles with much needed relief to frontline health care providers.

He also advanced MSC into the future, championing robust modeling and simulation capabilities that enabled operational level of war analysis and assessment opportunities His revolutionary Fuel Distribution Decision Aid enabled U.S. Indo-Pacific Command warfighters and planners to visualize real-time fuel distribution network requirements risks and resourcing needs

“What I learned to appreciate from the start is that MSC is an entire Navy within a Navy,” said Wettlaufer “Operating a globally deployed fleet leveraging integration across the services and Navy fleets with ourcommercialshippingandrepairindustry plus labor partners, MSC generates combat power that is 145 government and commercially-owned and operated ships today, said Wettlaufer “With only 2% of the budget and at 2% of the people whencomparedtotheNavy,thisleanteam

also mans, trains, equips, deploys, sustains and operates nearly 20% of the Navy’s 290 Battle Force ships while providing global logistics support to the other 80%. Importantly we continue to build new ships to join our stable “Iamproudtohavebeenpartofthisdedicated group that is relentlessly focused on our mission: providing agile logistics, strategicsealift,aswellasspecializedmissions anywhere in the world, for the joint warfighter 24/7, 365 days a year.”

Sobeck takes command after serving as director of Strategic Plans Policy and LogisticsatU.S.TransportationCommand, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, where he oversaw the revision of the command strategy His previous flag assignments also include; director, 21st Century Sailor Office; commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 3/Command Task Force (CTF) 36; and commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/CTF 73

“Because adversaries continue to challenge our peace, and the peace of our children, with the threat of armed conflict,

we must continue to evolve to meet the demandsofcontestedlogisticsandprovide seniornationalleadersdecisionadvantage:

That’s Power. That’s Projection. That’s Advantage And I trust that Rear Admiral Philip Sobeck will accelerate this evolution,” said Van Ovost.

“Iamextremelyhumbledandhonoredto be the 29th commander of Military Sealift Command,” said Sobeck. “After having servedintheU.S.Transportationheadquarters, I’ve developed an understanding and an appreciation of the importance of this command. More importantly I developed a respect and admiration for the people who make this complex maritime enterprise work.

“Make no doubt, I am compassionate about our important mission and vow to build uponthe many successes of Wettand his team, and continue to push forward to keep MSC the premier logistics organization in the world.”

Following the change of command, a retirement ceremony was held to honor Wettlaufer’s 37 years of naval service

During his career, he commanded Carrier Strike Group 3, USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), USS Denver (LPD 9) and Strike Fighter Squadron(VFA)195,theDambusters,and accumulated 3,800 hours flying 50 different aircraft types and over 900 arrested landingson 14carrier decks “AsIlookoutintothecrowdand see such a vast representation of professional warfighters friends family civilians church members and partners fully committed to the cause of promoting peace and security around the world, your presence today reminds us of the positive impact of what we can achievetogether,andtheprofound impact Wett has had not only on Military Sealift Command and TRANSCOM,butacrosstheentire Navy and the Joint Force, said Caudle

“Looking at the totality of your achievements these last four years and your resume, it is easy to see why you’ve been so successful specifically, your true pleasure in life - to mentor, lead, and develop our Sailors and Marines to meet their full potential,” he continued. MSC is the leading maritime logistics provider for the Department of Defense supporting Navy fleet commanders and USTRANSCOM operating more than130vesselsworldwideandmanaginga $4.8billionannualbudgetwithaworkforce of5,000civilserviceandcontractmariners supported by 1,300 shore staff and 1,200 activedutyandreservemilitarypersonnel.

“To the men and women of Military SealiftCommand,youclearlydemonstrate the Navy’s core values of honor, courage, and commitment. I am proud to serve with you. You are critical in the mission to protect the security of the American people. [And] you are vital in the expansion of economic prosperity and opportunity TRANSCOM, the joint force and our nation thanks you for your service and sacrifice,” said Van Ovost.

Over the next decade, 12 new classes of ships will come online and MSC will see up to 20 new ships delivered to its fleet in the next five years, all with modernized systems In addition, MSC is focused on delivering emerging capabilities such as new connectors unmanned aerial resupply and expeditionary munitions reload to better support distribution of maritime logistics

A Leaders Journey: Stennis chief engineer recounts the path that shaped him

ByPettyOfficer3rdClassJulianMata

USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74)

NEWPORTNEWS,Va Oneofgreatest strengthsoftheUnitedStatesNavyhaslong beenitsdiversity,whereSailorsfromdifferent cultures, heritages and backgrounds serve side-by-side That same diversity providesdifferentapproachestothevarious challenges throughout the Navy ensuring there’s “no one way” to solve an issue. The USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) is no different, and continues to showcase its ingenuity, perseverance and strength through the diversityofitscrew Noneembodythissentiment more than the Stennis’ Chief of Engineering,CapitanselectUpendraRamdat.

Born in Guyana in 1975 a once British territory located at the northern edge of South America, Ramdat would move to the Caribbean island of Barbados at the age of four with his mother and step-father He would finish high school in the Caribbean before making yet another move to New YorkCityasateen Attheageof17,Ramdatdecidedtofollow his passion for aviation, a strong affinity for

ByEmileyMurphy

Norfolk Naval Shipyard

In2020 NorfolkNavalShipyard’s(NNSY)

Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DE&I)

DirectorTaraneParkerwasinvitedtoattend a newly developed class at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Immediate Maintenance Facility (PSNS&IMF) In 2019, incidents at PSNS&IMF caused leadership to take a deeper look at their cultural climate andoverallwellness Asaresult,thecurriculumforThinkAboutIttrainingwascreated tosupportchangeandbuildahealthiershipyard As Parker sat through the course, he sawpotentialforthesamekindoftrainingat NNSY With a few modifications and additions, he and his team presented the training to the DE&I Counsel for approval and in the fall of 2022, NNSY launched six pilot classeswiththesupportoffacilitatorsfrom PSNS&IMF. After a detailed review, the course was ready for the first phase of rolloutswhichstartedinMay2023.

“We’recurrentlyworkingtogetoursupervisors through phase one and then we’ll be continuing with working level employees, whichisourphasetwo.Whatwe’retryingto createisacascadingeffect,soit’ssoimportanttogetfeedbackbecauseifthemanagers and leaders are buying into [the program], then it’s easier to say, ’Hey, I think you all should attend this Think About It training andthisiswhy.

The curriculum is designed to engage 15-25studentsforeachsessionusingaseries of thought-provoking videos, scenarios, and leading questions, encouraging deeper conversations and active problem-solving among participants. The course introduces learners to the legal definitions of harassmentanddiscrimination,whatisprotected, and what the law may not protect, and focuses on prevention and how to build a respectfulandinclusiveculture.

Asked why she was interested in the curriculum, Erica Miranda, Public Affairs Management Analyst and a facilitator for ThinkAboutIt,said,“Idon’tmindthehard conversations that need to be had. A lot of this training is hard conversations that people shy away from We need to discuss all these important topics and get in front of them because that’s the only way we can continue to work together and have a successfulshipyard.” Miranda,whohasbeenworkingatNNSY

aircraftinspiredbyhisstepfather andenlist intheNavyasanaviationBoatswain’sMate (Handling)

“I wanted to be a pilot. My stepdad was a commercial pilot, so I’ve been fascinated withairplanesmywholelife,”saidRamdat.

While Ramdat did not have any family members who had served, he believed that thevalueshegrewupwithinBarbadossuch asopenness,honesty andafamily-oriented mindset would aid his transition into the Navy

“The island valued education, church, disciplineandhadaverylowcrimeratewith a very high education rate,” said Ramdat. “Those things contributed to me getting throughbootcamp,doingwellasanenlisted sailorandthenapplyingmyselfincollegeto becomeanofficer.”

After arriving at his first ship Ramdat began to admire the tenacity and strong leadershipqualitiesoftheofficersonboard AftermakingE-5inthreeyears,hedecided hewantedtofollowintheirfootsteps

He earned his bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering and commissioned through San Diego State’s Naval

ROTC program. Ramdat then began his new career as a Surface Warfare Officer on the guided missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59). Despite his dream of becoming a pilot, Ramdat was limited by his eyesight. However, he saw the Navy as a means to continue working with the aircraft he so admired.

Ramdat soon found himself constantly at sea, separated from his young family The lifestyle was decidedly not fit for how Ramdat envisioned his future. Upon reflection, he would recall a time during his college days when the topic of lateral transfer was brought up The position of chiefengineer(CHENG)anditspurposeto repair,strengthen,andmodernizetheNavy’s warfarecapabilitiescaughthiseye.

WhenRamdatjoinedStennis hebecame the Stennis’ first CHENG of West-Indian descent.

“My community and family are incredibly proud” said Ramdat. “I’m honored to beapartofthisgreatNavyfamilyandserve alongsidethebestpeopleIknow.”

With the experiences and challenges faced as a young junior officer, paired with

the lessons he had carried with him from his younger years in Barbados and as an enlisted Sailor, Ramdat feels well equipped asaleader.Inpassingonthewisdomhehas gained,Ramdatemphasizestheprincipalhe valuesmost:peoplefirst

“You have to treat everyone with dignity and respect.” Said Ramdat. “We all need to have that trust in each other It’s one team, one fight and only together can we get anythingdone.”

Lieutenant James Watters, the Auxiliary OfficeronboardStennisandformerCHENG onUSSGravely,spoketoRamdat’scharacter “HemakessuretobackuphisSailors He inspires me to be more proactive in getting thisshiptomissionreadiness,”saidWatters

After 31 years of service and becoming a Captain select, Ramdat has no regrets and continues to push himself He believes that the formula for his success has been hard work,apositivemindset,andcleargoal-setting “I’m honored and humbled to be serving intheNavy,”saidRamdat “Ihavetheopportunity to do what I love, and most importantly,doitallalongsidemyteam.”

culture

foreightyears,hashadhershareofdifficult conversations. “I am open to perspectives,” she stated. I try to give people the benefit ofthedoubtwhentheyareaskingmequestions;now,ifitcontinuesandIknowyou’re beingargumentative,I’llsay,‘thanksforyour perspective,we’lljustagreetodisagree,’and we’llmoveontothenexttopic.”

The Think About It curriculum requires peopletolookcloselyattheirmorals,biases, and beliefs and consider how those affect their daily interactions with the people around them. Looking toward the future, Parker said, “What I want the shipyard to look like based on this training is a more inclusive environment, one more open to a thought process approach.. One that has

all of us embracing our differences - just because you’re in the LGBTQ+ community, for example doesn’t mean I should treat you differently I should be able to engage with an employee who doesn’t believe in certainthingsthatIbelieveinandstillhavea successful,prosperousrelationshipatwork.”

The importance of the Think About It courseandwhatitteachesemployeesacross theshipyardcirclesbacktoNNSY’seffortto build a better more inclusive environment as part of building a better culture “At the endoftheday,weunderstandthemission, saidParker “[Themission]istodeliverthese shipsontimefornationalsecuritypurposes sothatwecansleepbetteratnight.However, weneedtounderstandthatthereisapeople

elementthatisinvolvedinthat,andhowwe treatpeopledirectlyaffectsourbottomline -ourmission.Peopleneedtobeabletobring themselvestowork100percentandgive100 percent effort. We need to be aware of how we’retreatingourfolkssowecangettothat mission.”

For more information about the Think About It course, contact the DE&I Department at tarane.j.parker.civ@us.navy.mil or craig.r.fieldings.civ@us.navy.mil For more information about how you and your team can sign up for future classes, reach out to yourtrainingcoordinatorforfurtherdetails.

U.S.NavyCommanderUpendra Ramdat from NewYorkCity,poses fora photo in the hangarbayonboard the aircraft carrierUSSJohn C.Stennis (CVN 74),in Newport News Virginia,Aug.29

2023.TheJohn C.Stennis is in Newport News Shipyard conducting Refueling and ComplexOverhaul to prepare the ship forthe second halfofits 50-yearservice life.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYMASS COMMUNICATIONSPECIALIST3RDCLASSMAXBIESECKER)

Maritime Expeditionary Security Force celebrates Reserve SWOs commanding at sea

ByNavyExpeditionaryCombat Command

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Four Reserve surface warfare officers (SWOs) assumed command of security boat companies in Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadrons Eight and Ten in a ceremony onboard Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story,Sept 6.

Cmdr.LauraNevelfromBirdsboro,Pennsylvania; Cmdr Matthew Snodgrass from Hampstead, New Hampshire; Cmdr David Pascoe from Hornell New York; and Cmdr BrianLucasfromSacramento,Calif.;arethe firstNavyReserveO-5SWOstocommandat seainoveradecade

The Navy established the command-atsea insignia to recognize the responsibility placed on unrestricted line officers who are in command of or have successfully commanded,afloat deploying andoroperationalunitsdefinedassea-goingcommands undertheNavyandMarineCorps Theshift recognizes the responsibility and accountabilitytheNavyasksofitsleadersregardless oftheircomponentstatus

Rear Adm. Mark Haigis, deputy commander, Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) provided the keynote remarks for the ceremony and said designating these officers as at-sea commanding officersisareflectionofthetrustandconfidencethattheNavyhasinthem

“We recognize their exceptional leadership skills, operational experience, and unwavering commitment to our mission” said Haigis “By granting this designation, we are trusting these officers to lead at the highest level, to make critical decisions and to use their authorities to shape the future of our Navy It is a testament to the fact that leadership knows no boundaries and that excellence can be found in every corner of ourNavy.”

Earlier this year, the Navy approved the securityboatcompanycommandingofficer billetsforthecommand-at-seadesignation. After meeting the requirements, the four SWOs applied for the positions and went through a screening process prior to their detailing

Previously, the Navy reserved the command-at-sea designation within the Maritime Expeditionary Security Force (MESF)forO-6squadroncommandingofficers only. However, as part of a force redesign,MESFemphasizesReservewarfighting readinessandtheoperationalcompetencies neededtoaddresstoday’smaritimesecurity challenges whichpromptedthechange.

NevelsaidthatshewashonoredtheNavy grantedhertheopportunitytoserveinsuch animportantroleatsealeadingSailors.

“The weight of command is heavy, but I also know that this will be one of the best jobsI’mevergoingtohave,”saidNevel.“My sailorsaresomeofthebestI’vecomeacross intheNavy,andIcouldnotbemorehonored tobetheircommandingofficer.”

Rear Adm. Ted LeClair, deputy commander Naval Surface Forces also attended the ceremony, celebrating the milestone for the Reserve surface warfare community

“We are laser-focused on identifying and deliveringNavywarfightingcapabilitiesthat arebestsuitedfortheReservecomponent,” saidLeClair.“ByaddingthesefourSWOsto commandatseabillets,weareshowingour nationthattheNavyReserveisapartofour lethal and resilient force, ready for tomorrow’sfight.

The Maritime Expeditionary Security Force is actively looking for more candidates who are interested in commanding security boat companies To be eligible for command at sea of a Reserve security boat company, officers must meet the following requirements:

„ Must have an 1115 designator (Reserve surfacewarfareofficer)

„ Must have previously completed a MESF officer-in-charge tour served at a Navy Reserve Readiness Unit, or have the BX3 qualification, symbolizing successful completionofatleast18monthsinanoperational expeditionary warfare billet within theNECCForce

„ Musthavethe2N1qualification,symbolizing successful completion of the Navy Reserve Augment commanding officer/ officer-in-charge command qualification process

„ Must have a nomination/endorsement

from reporting senior for the command screeningboard

„ Must have the the 2D1 qualification, symbolizing successful completion of the MESFcommandqualificationboard

„ Mustpassarulesoftheroadexamwithat leastan80%score

Reserve SWOs who are interested in applying for Reserve O-5 command at sea shouldcontacttheNECCReserveProgram Director for more information at USFF_ COMNECC_LTLC_N1_RPD@us.navy.mil.

The MESF deploys globally and operates throughout the sea-to-shore and inland operating environment protecting maritimeinfrastructure,providinginsertionand extractioncapabilitiesandsupportingFleet assets in support of maritime operations Learn more about NECC and the MESF by visiting our website at: https://www.necc. usff.navy.mil

Virginia Beach,Va (Sept.6,2023) Cmdr David Pascoe,a Reserve surfacewarfare officerservingwith the Maritime ExpeditionarySecurity Force,speaks during an assumption ofcommand ceremony,Sept 6.NavyExpeditionaryCombat Command’s MESFdeploys globallyand operates throughout the sea-to-shore and inland operating environment protecting maritime infrastructure providing insertion and extraction capabilities and supporting assets enabling maritime operations.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYMASSCOMMUNICATIONSPECIALIST1STCLASSBENJAMINT.LISTON)

ByKristiRBritt Norfolk Naval Shipyard

Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY)

workforce members will have a chance to share their experiences andfeedbackasemployeesof America’s Shipyard with the launch of the Defense Organizational Climate Survey (DEOCS) Sept. 5 through

26 This confidential survey allows participants to share their views on the organizational climate of the shipyard, focusing on topics such as equal opportunity, safety and sexual assault response and prevention.

“With our continued efforts to building a better culture here at NNSY theDEOCSisanessentialtool to help us gauge how we’re doing as we progress forward, said Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (Code 1103) Director Tarane Parker The surveyassesses19protectiveandrisk factors that can affect an organization’s climate and ability to achieve its mission Parker continued, “It helps us identify what we need to go work on as a command. That valuable insight from our team helps us findtheareasforimprovementsowe canworktomakethepositivechange necessary to ensure our people feel seen and cared for every day.”

The survey, completed annually is required to be administered to the workforce within a 120-day window after a change of command

Due to Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute’s (DEOMI) recentpolicy,theDEOCSwillonlybe conducted electronically, with links to the survey and the departmental access codes provided to the workforce by each department’s DEOCS

point of contact. Those with regular computer access will be able to access the survey anytime during its duration with their departmental access code Kiosks will be set up with laptops for those without regular computer access and their location will be announced prior to the official launch date of the survey DEOCS is completely confidential and results will be available soon following its completion date, allowing teams to conduct focus groups and determine the next step forward in the process for change

“The results will tell us what our strengths and weaknesses are,” said Parker “Then we will use the focus groups to help validate the data to ensure we’re targeting those critical areas We’ve seen success in the past fromDEOCS,includingseeingmore leadership engagements with their people, and more opportunities for rewarding great work being done by the workforce There’s always work to be done but I can say that we are making a difference together.”

Employees are highly encouraged to participate in orderto providethe shipyard with a thorough assessment of the issues that need to be addressed. With DEOCS, they have the power to provide feedback to leadership that can help shape the path forward Parker added, “Be the change that you want to see you have a valuable voice in our progress so if there’s something on your heart, reveal it so we can go work on it. Taking just a few moments of yourdayto complete this survey can helppropelusforwardintoabrighter tomorrow.”

Smithsonian restores, displays ‘crash’ truck used at Pentagon on 9/11

ByKatieLange

DOD News

The National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, has had a lot of massive pieces of history on display over the years, including the Space Shuttle Discovery the Concorde supersonic airliner and the Enola Gay. But now, on the 22nd anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, it’s got an important new addition oneofthefoam-carryingaircraft rescue vehicles that was crucial to putting theflamesoutatthePentagon Foam 331, as the truck is known, was stationed at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport when 9/11 happened It was the first rescue vehicle to arrive at the Pentagon asidefromFoam161,thebuilding’sownrescuevehicle,whichwasheavily damagedintheattack thatwasequipped with the necessary tools to contain the flames coming from the collapsed part of thePentagon “The primary purpose for this type of vehicle is suppressing aviation fuel fires,” RogerConnor,theSmithsonian’scuratorof aeronautics said of the specialized truck. “These types of apparatus require foam in addition to a powerful suppressing agent ratherthanjustwater.”

If you’re not familiar with an airport fire

rescuevehicle commonlycalleda“crash truckbyfirefighters it’smuchmoreversatilethanastandardfiretruck.

“Rather than a conventional local fire station,whichhasatruckthat’sdesignedto hookhosesuptoafirehydrantorapumper truck and then have firefighters manually aimthehoseatthefire,thistruckhasallthat capability built in, Connor said. “It carries itsownwaterwithit.

Hesaidthetruckscanalsoshieldthecrew becausetheyhavebuilt-incannonsthatcan spraywaterandfoamfromadistance

“In the case of 9/11 at the Pentagon, they werenotonlyusingthetruckstosprayfrom their own cannon, but they were also using auxiliary remote cannons that were placed on the ground,” Connor said. “The trucks werealsopoweringthose.”

Thecuratorsaidthat,whilethetrucksare extremelyimportant,theyalmostneversee theactionforwhichtheywerebuilt.

“Aviation is such a safe form of transportation that there are almost never any major airline accidents that are reachable by this type of vehicle in the United States anymore,” Connor said. “This vehicle has respondedtomaybeacoupleofsmallengine fires, or that kind of thing, but it basically spent its life on standby Sept. 11 was really the only incident in which this vehicle ever fulfilleditsintendedpurpose.”

After 9/11, Foam 331 remained in service at Dulles International Airport until 2016, when the Metro Washington Airports Authority sold it to a Canadian airport support firm for parts Ultimately, the company sold it back to its original manufacturer,OshkoshCorporation.

“It was essentially being sent back to be scrapped when it was located and people realizedwhatthisvehiclewas, Connorsaid.

In recent years, the nonprofit Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Working Group began working to recognize the airport firefighter community that helped on 9/11 TheSmithsonianwasinterestedindoingso usingthebestexampleofequipmentpossible and the work of these rescue vehicles stood out. Thankfully, Foam 331 had just been rediscovered when the project came tofruition

Connor said the manufacturers of the truck did the bulk of the restoration work byreplacingsomemissingpieces,including a bumper turret, which is the foam cannon thatsitsonthebumper Thepainthadtobe refinished; some supplementary materials, suchastheladderrackthatwasonthevehicle in 2001 had to be replaced; and reflectivestripingandidentificationmarkingshad to be configured back to what they were on 9/11.Connorsaidtheyjustfinishedrestoring thosemarkingsearlierthismonth.

“Whenwewereputtingthedecalsonthe otherday,thegentlemanthatwasdoingthat wasaretiredfirefighter Hewasactuallyone of the on-scene commanders [on 9/11]. He was focused on the collapsed section at the impactsite,”Connorsaid.“So,itwaskindof fascinatingtohavehimbetheonetoputthe decalsonandbeabletopointtothepicture thatwehadondisplayandsay,‘That’smein thepicture.

Connor said Foam 331 will resonate with visitors because it demonstrates the often “out of site, out of mind” roles played by firstresponders,aircraftgroundscrewsand supportpersonnel.

“Wearereallyhonoredtobeabletopresent the vehicle,” the museum curator said. “The ability to tell a more comprehensive 9/11storyisessentialforacknowledgingand commemorating one of the most traumatic momentsinournation’shistory.”

Overthepasttwodecades,theUdvarHazy Centerhasdisplayedseveralitemsfrom9/11, including fragments of the Pentagon and World Trade Centers. Still on display is the MQ-1 Predator #3034 drone that fired the firstmissileofOperationEnduringFreedom inAfghanistanonOct.8,2001,inresponseto theSept.11attacks Themuseumwillholdaformaldedication of Foam 331 in 2026 around the 25th anniversaryofSept 11

An aircraft rescuevehicle sprays fire-suppressing foam onto flames at the Pentagon that erupted afterAmericanAirlines Flight 77was flown into the building during the attacks ofSept 11,2001. (NATIONALARCHIVESPHOTO)

rescue truckused at the Pentagon in the aftermath ofthe Sept

restored and is on displayat the NationalAirand Space Museum’s Steven F.Udvar-Hazy

ASLOWAS

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Hicks says DOD forever resilient after 9/11

ByJosephClark

DOD News

More than two decades after the Sept. 11, 2001, attack the defense community’s resilience and commitment to serve in the face of tragedy continues to shine through, Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks saidtoday.

“As the years since September 11th increase,so,too,doestheimportanceoftelling our stories,” she said at a ceremony for Defense Department employees marking the22ndanniversaryoftheattackthatkilled 184peopleatthePentagon.“Becauseevenas manyofushavepersonalmemoriesofwhat happened that day, an increasing share of

Americans don’t They were too young or hadn’tyetbeenborn.

“Evenso,9/11hasimpactedtheirlives,and they should know how and why,” she said “Telling our stories helps increase understandingacrossgenerations.”

Hicks, who was present at the Pentagon on the day of the attack, said she will “beforeverstruckbytheresiliencythatour friends and colleagues demonstrated in the minutes, hours and days that followed the attackonthePentagon.”

She noted the displays of empathy and “deep-rooted instinct to help and be of service to others” among the workforce amidthetragedy

“Allofthatshonethroughthatday, Hicks

said.“Sodidthisteam’sunbelievableresolve andstrength.It’snowonderthedoorsofthe Pentagonreopenedtheverynextday.”

That drive to serve others echoed throughouttheU.S.inthemonthsandyears followingtheattacksthatkillednearly3,000 people at the Pentagon, the World Trade Center in New York and aboard United Airlines flight 93, which crashed near Shanksville,Pennsylvania.

In the year that followed, more than 254,000 young people answered the call to serveinthemilitary,Hickssaid.

“Many of those said that they had never even considered military service that they were motivated by what had happened on 9/11 and its aftermath, she said. “They had

come to understand that military service represented something larger than themselves.”

That outpouring patriotism and selflessnessservesasanaptreminder Hickssaid,as thenationthisyearmarksthe50thanniversaryofall-volunteerforce

“The events of 9/11 transformed our nation and how we view our national security,”Hickssaid.“Italsotransformedeachof usindividuallyinwaysthatwedon’talways talkaboutpublicly.That’swhyweholdthis special observance each year to hold space forthiscommunity.” “Youarenotalone, shesaid.“Wehavenot forgottenaboutyouorthosewelost,andwe neverwill.

NSWC honored with DoD Suicide Prevention Recognition Award

ByNavalSpecialWarfareCommand

Naval Special Warfare Command (NSWC) was formally recognized for its outstanding contributionstosuicidepreventionduringthe DepartmentofDefense’sannualSuicidePreventionRecognitionceremonySept 6.

The event, hosted by the Defense Human Resources Activity, celebrated the exceptional efforts of various military installations in increasing suicide prevention awareness and engagement Other honorees included U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz, Kaiserslautern, Germany; Guam Army National Guard, Barrigada, Guam; Marine Aircraft Group 12, Iwakuni Japan; and Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Hampton and NewportNews,Virginia.

DeputySecretaryofDefenseKathleenHicks addressedtherecipientsandguests,emphasizing the Department’s commitment to taking a publichealthapproachtosuicideprevention.

“Taking care of our people is a top priority for Secretary Austin and for me,” said Hicks. “Suicide has no single root cause or solution. That’s why the Department is taking a public health approach—because this problem requires a range of prevention methods and treatmentoptions.”

AccordingtoChadRodarmer,NSWCdeputy Force programs manager, NSW’s approach to suicide prevention is to continually strive to promoteconnectednessandeducationamongst theentireNSWcommunity

“Withayear-roundfocusonsuicideprevention, we’ve relentlessly advocated for interconnectedness, leveraging resources, and prioritizing the value of human life over hardware said Rodarmer “We firmly believe that ‘humans are more important than hardware,’ anditisthismindsetthathasguidedourefforts.”

NSWC was lauded for its comprehensive andinnovativeapproachtosuicideprevention, whichincludesembeddedcareproviderssuch as Navy chaplains, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers. Additionally, NSWC

DeputySecretaryofDefenseKathleenH.HicksrecognizesrepresentativesfromNavalSpecialWarfareGroup,SanDiegoduringtheDepartmentof Defense’sannualSuicidePreventionAwarenessRecognitionCeremonyinthePentagonHallofHeroes,Sept

suicide prevention staff members provide practical, evidence-based training to all NSW personnelandfamiliestoeducateeveryoneon signs symptoms and available resources for suicideprevention

“Our commitment to the mental and spiritual well-being of our workforce remains unwavering,” said Rodarmer The initiatives I

mentionedbringusclosertogetherasacommunity destigmatize mental health issues, and emphasize the importance of holistic health maintenance.”

Forthoseinterestedinviewingtheceremony, a recording is available at www.dvidshub.net/ webcast/32534

U.S.NavalSpecialWarfareisthenation’selite

maritime special operations force, uniquely positioned to extend the fleet’s reach. Integral tothiscapabilityisaforward-deployedposture and continuous engagement with partner and allyforces,heighteningmutualinteroperability andregionalexpertise

6,2023.(DODPHOTOBYCHADJ.MCNEELEY)

The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial,dedicated in 2008,honors 184 people killed at the Pentagon and onAmericanAirlines Flight 77when the Pentagonwas attacked byterrorists on Sept 11, 2001.(COURTESYPHOTO)

USNA civilian professors participateinDVEmbarkaboard

USS Dwight D. Eisenhower

ByJenniferCragg

Commander Naval Air Force Atlantic

ATLANTIC OCEAN Twelve U.S. Naval Academy(USNA)civilianprofessorswhohad never set foot on an aircraft carrier had an opportunity to experience landing onto the flightdeckoftheaircraftcarrierUSSDwight

D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), and embarking aboardforanovernightstay,Aug.29

Duringtheirunderwayvisit,theembarked guestsvisitedmorethan20spaces,metwith the Eisenhower’s leadership as well as membersoftheship’screw

The faculty at USNA fill a unique position in molding future Navy and Marine Corps officers Throughout a midshipmen’s time attheacademy,abouthalfoftheirprofessors andmentorsarecivilianfaculty.Byproviding a brief exposure to life at sea, the professors gainafirst-handlookatlifeaboardanaircraft carrier while gaining an understanding of whatthefleetwillbelikefortheirstudents

Karyn Sproles Dean of Faculty Development and Director of the Center for Teaching & Learning, USNA, was one of the 12 embarkedguests.

“So many of our professors just really don’thaveadeepunderstandingofwhatour students will go on to do after they graduate from the Academy,” Sproles said, who has served as the dean of faculty development forthepasteightyears.

“Experiences like this really help them connect with the students that they are

teaching because they can see what they are educating our students for,” Sproles said. “They basically see their futures when they take a trip like this It gives them a real connectionwiththestudents.”

Scott Hottovy, Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics, was another participant who gained first-hand experiencesofaircraftoperationsatsea.

“It is important to see what my students willdoaftertheygraduate,itisalsoimportant to see the people that they will be in charge of,” Hottovy said. “It is good to talk with the enlisted and their needs and best communicatetomystudents.

Hottovy’sfatherservedintheNavyduring the Vietnam War and was stationed on an aircraftcarrier.Hehadalwayswantedtogain an understanding of what his father experiencedduringhisnavalservice.

“MyfatherlitupwhenItoldhimthatIhad an opportunity to embark aboard an aircraft carrier,”Hottovyadded

Participatinginanembarkopportunityalso helped the professors to better understand their role and how they fit into the larger mission of educating the next generation of leaders

“Every once in a while there are moments in a faculty member’s life where you get this deep understanding of what it is that we are educating our students to do,” Sproles said. “You gain that inspiration because of moments like this This embark really helps us all understand how we fit into the

largermission.USNAhasapowerfulsenseof purposebeyondanythingIhaveexperienced atotherinstitutions andtheembarkshowsus thatmissioninaction.”

Another embarked guest, Craig Whitaker, professor in the Chemistry department, arrived at the USNA in 1997 and has wanted toembarkaboardanaircraftcarrier.

“I have been trying to embark on a carrier for 23 years,” Whitaker said. “There are so manysubjectsthatweteachinchemistrythat overlapandourstudentsarelaterexposedto inthefleet.Justtoseewhatweareteachingin the class relates to the fleet everything from corrosiontonuclearreactors,boilerwater.”

As an added bonus to the embark experience, and as luck would have it, Whitaker had the opportunity to catch up with one of hisformerresearchstudentswhograduated fromtheUSNAin2019

“Hewaseatingdinnerintheofficer’smess when we went in there. Very fun to see him inhisprofessionallifeaftertheAcademyasa helicopterpilotassignedtotheEisenhower,” Whitakeradded.“Hewasagreatresearcher.”

Naval Air Force Atlantic is responsible for six nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, 54 aircraftsquadrons,1,200aircraftand43,000 officers, enlisted and civilian personnel basedontheEastCoastoftheUnited States It provides combat ready, sustainable naval air forces with the right personnel, properly trained and equipped with a focus on readiness,operationalexcellence,interoperability, safety,andefficientresourcing.

Save time and money with the Transportation Incentive Program

BySusanneGreene Norfolk Naval Shipyard

If you want to stress less over your daily commute,pleaseconsidertheoptionsunder the Department of the Navy’s Transportation Incentive Program (TIP). Alternative commutingoptionsreducetrafficcongestion aroundtheinstallation,improveairpollution, andrelieveparkingconcerns

“TIPisdesignedtoassistwithmasstransit costs incurred by personnel while commuting between their residence and duty station,” said NNSY Transportation IncentiveProgramManagerReginaHall

On April 21, 2000, Executive Order 13150 requiredthatallFederalagenciesimplement atransportationfringebenefitprogram.Transit benefits are provided from the Department of Transportation (DOT) on behalf of the Department of the Navy (DON) to TIP participantsviatheTRANServeCard

“The Transportation Incentive Program System (TIPS) is a web-based application used to manage DON TIP,” said Hall “TIPS authenticatesusersviatheirCommonAccess Card(CAC).”

There are a variety of mass transportation options available to participants, such as: commuter trains, subways, light rail, vanpools, commuter buses and ferries (passengerserviceonly).

“IliveinNorthCarolinaandmycommute to work is approximately 115 miles per day, roundtrip,”saidNNSYTrainingCoordinator Sandra Redmond. “Especially now with the rising cost of fuel, along with the wear and tear on your vehicle, the TIP program saves memoneyonfuel,tires,routinemaintenance andtolls.”

Redmond continued, “We all know parkingatNNSYcanbedifficulttogettheperfect spot, but there is designated parking for vanpools throughout the yard so you don’t have to stress in the morning about finding parking! Another perk is that, in my van, we rotate drivers so you can sit back and relax and leave the driving to someone else

Both Sandra“Sandy Redmond and Gerald“Kent Edwards participate in the NorfolkNaval ShipyardTransportation Incentive Program.(PHOTOBYSHELBYWEST,NORFOLKNAVALSHIPYARD)

Commuting at a reduced cost has been a life saverforme.”

The following individuals are eligible for TIP benefits: DON service members and civilians, reservists (on active duty for more than thirty days), part-time Federal employees, paid interns and non-appropriated fund (NAF)employees Contractorsandvanpoolownersaffiliated with a for-profit vanpool are not eligible to participateintheprogram.

InordertoparticipateintheTIPprogram, eligibleemployeesmustcreateandcomplete anonlineapplicationathttps://tips.navy.mil. Beforeapplying,applicantsmusthaveaccess to a computer, the internet and have a CAC.

After employees submit their application, it will be reviewed and validated by their

supervisor and then reviewed and approved byalocalReviewingOfficial(RO) Approved applicantswillreceivetheirTRANServecard fromtheirinstallationRO

Eligible employees may select a vanpool or start their own. Please note the vanpool agreement is between the employee and vendor, not the vendor and the DON Also, TIP benefits may not cover theentirecost of the vanpool. Applicants should research all oftheTIPoptionsandselectthebestonefor themselves

TIP offers participants a lot of opportunities to save time and money on their daily commute. For more information, please reach out to NNSY Transportation IncentiveProgramManagerReginaHallviaemail atregina.b.hall.civ@us navymil

Q: Whattypesoffamily housingareavailable?

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

Public/PrivateVenture(PPV)

Housing is also referred to as privatized housing in the Navy

The Navy partnered with different private management companies to provide housing to Service Members. These companies are responsible forthe construction, renovation,maintenance and day-to-day management ofthe housing PPVhousing may be located on oroffgovernment property and in most cases will be formermilitary housing

GovernmentOwned (also known as Military Housing orNavy Managed Housing is what was formerly called on-base housing While only available in limited quantities CONUS,Government Owned Housing is still widely available OCONUS.

CommunityHousing is any housing that a Service Member may choose that is not PPVor government operated This is housing outside ofthe base that is privately owned and operated

NAVY HOUSING Norfolk: 757.445.2832

JEBLCFS: 757.462.2792

Oceana/DamNeck: 757.433.3268 Yorktown: 757.847.7806

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

FUNCTIONSAND/OR SERVICESFFSCPROVIDES:

ClinicalCounseling – Individual, Couplesand ChildCounseling

Personal Financial Management

Information & Referral

Family EmploymentAssistance

TransitionAssistance

FamilyAdvocacy Program

Deployment and Mobilization Support

Ombudsman Support

RelocationAssistance

Parenting Programs

Stress andAngerManagement

Command Support

Crisis Support

Suicide Prevention

SAPR Support

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug 29 2023)- Professors from the United States NavalAcademypose before theirembarkaboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrierUSS Dwight D.Eisenhower(CVN 69).Before the embark,the professors had neverset foot on an aircraft carrier (U.S.NAVYPHOTOBY JENNIFERCRAGG)

NAVFAC awards cost saving utilities contract for Naval Air Station Patuxent River

ByMatthewStinson

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems

Command Washington

WASHINGTON NAVY YARD

Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Energy, in coordination with Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) WashingtonandNAVFACAtlantic,awarded

a $348,993,609 fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment contract to American States Utility Services (ASUS) Inc., San Dimas California, to privatize the water andwastewaterutilitysystemovera50-year term at Naval Air Station (NAS) Patuxent River,Maryland,onAugust15

NAS Patuxent River’s water and wastewatersystemprivatizationisoneinaseries of utilities privatization (UP) projects betweenNAVFACandDLAEnergy TheUP program’spurposeistoreviewNavyInstallations deemed economically not viable in the early 2000s and determine if today’s marketoffersbetteropportunities

“DLA Energy Utility Services supports MilitaryServicepartnersbyofferingspecialized contracting and technical expertise to obtain safe, reliable, and environmentally sound utility systems, at a relatively lower cost than they would under continued government ownership,” said Martha Gray, Director of DLA Energy Utility Services “We offer cradle-to-grave contracting support including full range of pre- and post-award contract administration for the 50-yearcontractterm.

A private system owner, such as ASUS, can respond to changes in technology with greatereaseandutilizepurchasingpowerto garnerbettersystemsatareducedcost.This utilities privatization contract represents a significant cost savings for the government inlieuoftraditionalfundingoptionssuchas Military Construction (MILCON)e including approximately $100 million in repair and replacement investments of water and wastewaterinfrastructureatNASPatuxent River

“Very simply, this is an extremely significant contract award for the DoD, and another example of the Navy embracing smartsolutionsliketheUPProgramtomeet crucialinfrastructureobligations,”saidRear Adm. Lore Aguayo, commander, NAVFAC Atlantic

The utilities privatization contract addresses cybersecurity requirements and improves control features, while providing the flexibility necessary to refine and enhancefuturecybersecuritymeasures The service provider is contractually required to comply with National Institute of Standards and Technology criteria and protect controlledunclassifiedinformation.

“ThispartnershipwillenabletheNavyto improve both the reliability and resilience of our critical water infrastructure at PAX River,akeyaviationbasethatiscriticaltothe

Department of the Navy,” said Capt. Omarr Tobias NAVFAC Washington commandingofficer

Locatedapproximately90milesfromthe FleetinNorfolk,Virginia,and65milessouth of Washington D.C. NAS Patuxent River consists of 14,500 acres spanning the main stationinLexingtonPark,WebsterOutlying FieldinSt Inigoes,NavyRecreationCenter Solomons in Calvert County, and BloodsworthIslandRangeintheChesapeakeBay.

SinceitscommissioningApril1,1943,NAS Patuxent River has evolved into the Center ofExcellenceforNavalAviation.NASPatuxentRiverhostsNavalAirSystemsCommand

andNavalAirWarfareCenterAircraftDivision headquarters Naval Supply Systems CommandFleetLogisticsCenter,aswellas dozensofadditionaltenantactivities.

“I am excited this project has been awarded on time and with a life-cycle cost belowwhatwethoughtitshouldcost,which represents a wonderful win-win opportunity for the Navy and our contractor partner,” said Pete Lynch, NAVFAC assistant commanderforpublicworks.

NAVFAC is the Systems Command that

delivers and maintains quality, sustainable facilities acquiresandmanagescapabilities fortheNavy’sexpeditionarycombatforces providescontingencyengineeringresponse, and enables energy security and environmental stewardship NAVFAC Washington directlysupportsJointTaskForceNational Capital Region and its partnership with all local, state, and federal agencies in the region.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster response training in Trinidad and Tobago

ByLt.j.g NickolasWest

U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command / U.S. 4th Fleet

PORTOFSPAIN TrinidadandTobago

MembersofTrinidadandTobago’sDefense Force and local first responders partnered with U.S. Southern Command’s (SOUTHCOM) Public-Private Cooperation Office (PPC), U.S. SOUTHCOM Non-Federal Entities(NFEs)andU.S.Navypersonnelin a collaborative effort to engage in humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR)trainingattheDefenseForceMilitaryAcademyinTrinidadandTobago,Sept.

4-8, 2023

The training took place during the third stop of the Continuing Promise 2023 mission in Trinidad and Tobago It consistedofpartnernationDefenseForces and 33 total participants to include U.S. Navy personnel, local first responders, and U.S. SOUTHCOM NFEs This year’s mission is being supported by expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Burlington (T-EFP 10) with stops in Panama, Colombia, Trinidad and Tobago, and Grenada with a focus on medical engagements, HADR, women’s peace and security, and community outreach

“The Humanitarian Assistance and DisasterResponsetraininginTrinidadand Tobagodemonstratedthestrengthofteamwork and cooperation needed in a disaster response scenario It reinforced our shared dedication to global well-being.”,” said Ms. Julie Karam, Interorganizational Coordinator at U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) “It was a remarkable experience, where local responders, U.S. SOUTHCOM NFEs, and members of the DefenseForcesjoinedtogethertoenhance theirdisasterresponsecapabilities leaving usbetterpreparedtofacefuturechallenges together.”

U.S.SOUTHCOM’sPPCOfficecurrently has12non-federalentitiesandinteragency partners participating in the Continuing Promise 2023 mission. Public Private Cooperation partners are enhancing the mission with disaster response expertise andhumanitarianaiddonationsinsupport of all mission stops The U.S. utilizes Non-Federal Entities in order to respond quicker and more effectively to assist partner nations in the event of a crisis

WhileinTrinidadandTobago,members of the Defense Force, Air Guard, Coast Guard, Office of Disaster Preparedness,

PORTOFSPAIN,Trinidad andTobago (Sept 8,2023) Lt AnthonyFryerparticipates in HADRTraining in Port ofSpain,Trinidad andTobago in support ofContinuing Promise 2023.Continuing Promise 2023 marks the 13th mission to the region since 2007 and the first involving USNS Burlington.The missionwill also fostergoodwill,strengthen existing partnershipswith partnernations,and encourage the establishment ofnew partnerships among countries,non-government organizations,and international organizations.(U.S.NAVYPHOTOBYLT.J.G NICKOWEST)

Regional Disaster Management Units, local fire department, police department prisonservices,andTrinidadandTobago’s Defense Regiment attended the training

Throughout the duration of Continuing Promise 2023 partner nation participants and U.S. SOUTHCOM NFE volunteers willvaryduringeachmissionstop Ineach country, members of the national disaster agency, national police national firefighters andtheRedCrosshaveexpressedplans toparticipateintheirrespectivecountries.

Throughout the Continuing Promise 2023 mission in Trinidad and Tobago, U.S. SOUTHCOM’s PPC Office and U.S. SOUTHCOM NFE partners My Medic,

GOOD 360, Lift Non-Profit Logistics

Pacific Disaster Center United Nations’ UNOCHA and UNWFP, and USAID/BHA participatedandledHADR-relatedengagements, trainings, and community events

Continuing Promise 2023 marks the 13th mission to the region since 2007 and the first involving USNS Burlington. The mission will also foster goodwill, strengthenexistingpartnershipswithpartner nations and encourage the establishmentofnewpartnershipsamongcountries non-government organizations, and international organizations U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/ U.S. 4th Fleet supports U.S. Southern

Command’s joint and combined military operations by employing maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships in order to enhance regional security and promote peace, stability and prosperity in theCaribbean,CentralandSouthAmerican region. Learn more about USNAVSOUTH /4th Fleet at https://www.fourthfleet navy.mil https://www.facebook.com/ NAVSOUS4THFLTand@NAVSOUS4THFLT.

For more information visit: www.fourthfleet.navy.mil www.dvidshub.net/feature/UNITAS

Maryland’s Patuxent RiverNavalAirStation is located on a small peninsula,bordered bythe Patuxent Riverto the north-northeast and Chesapeake Bayto the east and southeast.International Space Station crews frequentlyuse the Patuxent RiverNavalAirStation as a geographic reference point and photographic training target This astronaut photograph illustrateswhy—the distinctive pattern ofthe airfield runways and the station’s location in Chesapeake Baymake it easyto spot from orbit (PHOTOBYREGINAADAMS)

USSMilwaukee(LCS5)decommissions

ByLt AyifaBrooks

Commander Littoral Combat Ship Squadron Two

NAVAL STATION MAYPORT Freedom-variantlittoralcombatship(LCS)USS Milwaukee(LCS5)wasdecommissionedin Mayport,Fla.,September8.

As an operational unit, Milwaukee and its crew played an important role in the defenseofournationandmaritimefreedom MilwaukeeanditsSailorswerekeytodetermine the operational success and deploymentcapabilitiesoftoday’sLCSplatform.

During the ceremony guest speaker, Vice Adm. Dirk Debbink (USN, Ret), former chairman of Milwaukee’s commissioning committee wished the crew of Milwaukee fair winds and following seas as they bid farewelltotheirship

“Weareallveryproudofthewaythisship served our Navy and our nation since that colddayinNovember2015. saidViceAdm. DirkDebbink(USN,Ret),formerchairman of Milwaukee’s commissioning committee

“She was the first true serial production ship of the Freedom Class having incorporated literally hundreds of changes, lessons learnedfromFreedomandFortWorth.” Milwaukee and its Sailors contributed a tremendous amount of work and time to ensure success of the LCS program during the ship’s time in naval service Milwaukee completed two successful deployments in April2022andJune2023 Theshipdeployed toU.S.FourthFleetandintegratedwiththe embarked US Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET), other US warships, Department of Defense, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, and SOUTHCOM/JIATF-S During their second deployment, Milwaukee and her embarked LEDETs, seized an estimated $30 million in suspected cocaine and three detainees during interdictions as sea, preventing 954kgs of cocaine from entering the United States She also transported six detainees and case packages on behalf of USCGC BEAR in support of the

counter-narcotic/interdiction mission Whiledeployed,Milwaukeeprovidedmaritimesecuritypresenceenablingthefreeflow ofcommerceinkeycorridorsoftrade

“Throughout the life of the ship, the Sailors that sailed Milwaukee led the way in training and operations that led to fleet improvements and culminated with operational success that supported national security objectives and demonstrated U.S. commitmenttoourallies.”saidCmdr Jason Knox, Milwaukee’s commanding officer “Not only can her Sailors be proud of their distinctive accomplishments, but the City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin can be proud of theirship,too.”

Milwaukee was designed by Lockheed Martin and constructed by Marinette Marine Corporation (Fincantieri) Marinette Wisconsin, Milwaukee was commissionedNovember21,2015 inLakeMichigan at Milwaukee’s Veteran’s Park. Mrs Sylvia Panetta,wifeofformerSecretaryofDefense LeonPanetta,servedastheship’ssponsor.

USSMilwaukee(LCS5)isthefifthUnited StatesNavyWarshipnamedafterthecityof Milwaukee,Wisconsin.Theshiprepresents theproudpeopleoftheMilwaukeecommunity. Upon decommissioning, Milwaukee’s Sailorswillreceivefollow-onorderstonew assignments LCS are fast, agile, mission-focused platforms designed to operate in near-shore environments, winning against 21st-century coastal threats LCS are versatile and are capable to support a broad spectrum of fleetmissionsandoperatealongsideregional navies and coast guards while supporting forward presence, maritime security, sea control, and deterrence missions around theglobe

FormorenewsfromCommander,Littoral Combat Ship Squadron Two, visit https:// www.surflant.usff.navy.mil/lcsron2/ or follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/comlcsron2/

USS Shiloh departs Yokosuka, Japan after 17 years of forward-deployed service

ByMassCommunicationSpecialist

2ndClassAskiaCollins

YOKOSUKA, Japan The Ticonderoga-class guided missile-cruiser USS Shiloh (CG67)departedYokosuka,Japan,onSept 5 to transit to its new homeport of Pearl Harbor Hawaii, as part of a planned rotationofforcesinthePacific.

U.S. Navy Sailors and members of Ship Repair Facility (SRF) Yokosuka wave to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) in Yokosuka, Japan, Sept. 5, 2023. Shiloh departed Yokosuka on Sept. 5 to transit to its new homeport of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, as part of a planned rotation of forces in the Pacific. Shiloh is attached to Commander Carrier Strike Group 5 forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th

Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo Pacific (U.S Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class AskiaCollins) Shiloh arrived on station at Yokosuka NavalBaseinAugust2006tofulfilltheobligationsoftheU.S.-Japaneseballisticmissile defenseprogramandtosupportoperations within the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations (AOO).

“For nearly two decades, USS Shiloh provided our Forward-Deployed Naval Forces the agility and firepower to support our carrier operations, protect sea lanes, deter aggression, and reassure allies and partnersacrosstheIndo-Pacific,”saidCapt.

Adam Cheatham, commanding officer of Shiloh “We’ve built long-lasting personal andprofessionalrelationshipshereinJapan

thatwillstaywithusforever Shiloh’scontributions were significant, reinforcing valuableconnectionsoversharedvisionsofafree andopenIndo-Pacific.

“It’s sad to be leaving this place that means so much to us, but we believe USS Shiloh made a difference during her time forward-deployed to Yokosuka and we are proud of that, he continued. “On behalf of thecrew,Iwanttooffermydeepgratitudeto thepeopleofJapanandthiscommunityfor theirfriendshipovertheyears Itwillnever beforgotten.”

In addition to serving in the 7th Fleet AOO, Shiloh deployed to the 5th Fleet AOO in support of operations Allies Refuge and FreedomSentinelin2021.

U.S. 7th Fleet exercises operational controlofitsunitsthroughdesignatedTask

Forces or Task Groups These groups are organized along domain and functional lines ShilohisassignedtoCommander,Task Force (CTF) 70, the theater strike warfare commander and theater air and missile defensecommander

CTF 70 is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest forward-deployed fleet in the world, and with the help of and network of alliances and partners from 35 other maritime nations, the U.S. Navy has operated in the Indo-Pacific region for more than 70 years; providing credible, ready forces to helppreservepeaceandpreventconflict

Reserve Sailors develop, maintain critical skills in Mako Storm 23

ByLt Cmdr.JaniceLeister NR NAVCENT PAO

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK, Va

More than 60 Reserve Sailors from U.S. 5th Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet and U.S. Fleet Forces Command completed a four-day exercise July16toenhancetheir planningandoperationalcapabilities.

Mako Storm 23 took place July 13-16 in a specially configured maritime operations center(MOC)attheNavyWarfareDevelop-

mentCenteratNavalStationNorfolk.Sailors stood watches, provided mentorship, and plannedexerciseevents

“Mako Storm allows Reserve Sailors to familiarize themselves with the MOC and to help them develop and maintain skills that are essential for their work over at 5th Fleet, said Cmdr Sean Marvin, the Mako series lead planner “This is an opportunity forthemtoaskimportantquestionsandgain insightfromexperiencedmentorsinatrainingenvironment.”

Rear Adm. Robert Nowakowski, vice commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and U.S. 5th Fleet, said the exercise is an important building block in meeting the Navy Reserve Fighting Instructions (NRFI)linesofefforttodesign,train mobilize,anddeveloptheforce Sailorsreceivedmorethan830man-hours oftraining,whichhesaidwas,“aforcemultiplierandalignswiththeNRFIlinesofeffort ofwarfightingtrainingtoensureourSailors arereadydayone.”

U.S. Naval Forces Central Command is responsibleforanapproximately2.5millionsquare-mileareaincludingtheArabianGulf, Gulf of Oman, North Arabian Sea, Gulf of AdenandRedSea.Itsmissionistoconduct maritime security operations and theater securitycooperationeffortsandstrengthen partner nations’ maritime capabilities to promotesecurityandstabilityintheU.S.5th Fleetareaofoperations.

YOKOSUKA Japan –TheTiconderoga-class guided missile-cruiserUSS Shiloh (CG 67) departedYokosuka,Japan,on

Navy spouse promotes self-care with customers, military community

ByKatishaDraughn-Fraguada

Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads

Public Affairs

Wearingmanyhatsissometimesanormal part of life for a Navy spouse. For Tyvonna Williams-Sears,thatisnodifferent.

Oneofhernumeroushatsinvolvesbeinga business owner with a passion for ensuring people which includes a large number of militaryspousesandveterans understand andvaluetheimportanceofself-care.

Williams-Sears, owner of @Skyn Stuff EstheticsandaMasterEsthetician,hashad apassionforskincareandalwaysgravitated to different jobs that specialized in it over theyears.

“Working at MAC as a makeup artist inspired me to pursue skincare, she said. “Seeing my clients struggle with skin insecurities inspired me to want to contribute morethanjustcoveringtheskin,andworkingmoretowardsskinhealth.”

Williams-Sears worked at MAC for 10 years Shewasalsoaleadmasteresthetician at Massage Envy and an instructor at the

Chrysm Institute of Esthetics Having her own business was always a dream of hers, but she just did not know when it would happen due to different life circumstances andtheresponsibilitiesthatcomealongwith thelifeofamilitaryspouse.

Then,inAugust2022,@SkynStuffEstheticswasborn.

“[It] provides a place where my clients can get their skincare needs and therapy. It’satwo-in-oneservice,”shesaid.“Iloveto educate people on how to take care of their skinusingprofessionalproductssotheycan gettheirdesiredresults.”

As a business owner, Williams-Sears consults and provides services to different peoplefromyouthtoolderadultsandevery age in between. She is passionate about her customers withalargeportionofherclientelecomingfromthemilitarycommunity

“I service active duty military members, spouses,retirees,anddependents Itisespecially important for me to be able to help military spouses with their skin,” she said. “Alotofthetimespousesmustneglecttheir skincare needs to take care of their families

andotherobligations.

Those are responsibilities that WilliamsSears knows very well being a Navy spouse forthepast14years.

“Ihavefacedmanyobstacles,thehardest has been deployments and underways. At thatpoint,youbecomeasingleparentimmediately Yousolelymusttakeonallresponsibilities that were once shared between two people,” she said. “One obstacle that stands out to me the most is when my mother passed away unexpectedly My husband wasonanunderwayandIhadtotrytoplan afuneral,comfortmykids,andnotfallapart allatthesametime.”

Although being a military spouse comes withitsshareofchallenges Williams-Sears findswaystorelievestressorsthatareassociatedwithworkandfamilyresponsibilities.

“The way that I overcome obstacles is with self-care, such as getting facials, massages,andworkingout,”shesaid.

Taking time out to focus on oneself, in between daily hectic schedules, is essential to Williams-Sears and she continues to remindallofhercustomersofthataswell.

Brittani Payton, a military veteran who served 10 years in the United States Air Force, also deals with hardships and finds different ways to cope; crediting WilliamsSears with helping her de-stress and work onherownindividualself-care.

“I separated from the Air Force in October of 2022 and it is not always easy findingbalancebetweenmypersonallife family obligationsandtasksrelatedtomybusiness as a new entrepreneur,” she said. “Tyvonna alwaysprovidesarelaxingenvironmentfor my appointment, addresses my concerns, and reminds me how important it is to take time out for myself, and to get enough rest anddrinkplentyofwater Thesefactorshave animpactonmyskin.”

When she is not working and pampering her clients Williams-Sears enjoys spendingtimewithherfamily herhusband,two daughters, one son and one granddaughter She also finds much enjoyment in taking care of her two pigs, five chickens, one dog andtwocats.

TyvonnaWilliams-Sears provides a microneedling treatment to one ofhercustomers.Williams-Sears promotes the importance ofself-carewith hercustomers,which includes a large numberof militaryspouses andveterans.(COURTESYPHOTO)

On iberty

International author and horticulturist to deliver keynote address during WPA Heritage Celebration

Press Release

NORFOLK, Va. — Join Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) for the 15th annual Works Progress Administration (WPA) Garden Heritage Celebration on Sunday, September 17, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.— sponsored by Truist. The celebration honors the 220 African American women and men who first planted the Garden 85 years ago and recognizes their hard work and dedication. Admission to the Garden is free from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Nicole Livas, WVEC-13 News Now evening anchor/special projects reporter will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies. This event will feature a reading of the 74 known WPA worker names, including a new addition this year - with a reception to follow.

This year’s keynote speaker is international author and horticulturist, Abra

Lee, the current Director of Horticulture at Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta. She will receive the NBG Groundbreaker award, along with three other individuals, including Dr. Rex Ellis, Founding Associate Director for Curatorial Affairs at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, Becky Livas, the first African American TV Newscaster in Hampton Roads and Thomas Ransom, Virginia Region President of Truist.

The 7th annual NBG Groundbreaker award is named in the honor of the WPA sculpture entitled Breaking Ground, which recognizes the 220 WPA women and men who had a profound impact on our community. The award honors individuals, groups and organizations that exhibit committed and groundbreaking leadership and service.

On this anniversary year, the President’s Council on Inclusion and Diversity commit-

tee created a scholarship - funded in part by Truist. This Scholarship is to be awarded for educational pursuits of underrepresented minority students in green industry or related fields. This includes Garden Cultivation, Environmental Sciences, Botany, Horticulture, Sustainability Studies, Agriculture and Landscape. “The Norfolk Botanical Gardens holds a special place that enriches the quality of life for residents of Norfolk and beyond. As the garden continues to evolve and grow, it’s important to recognize the labor of the African American women and men whose hard work for the WPA created the initial Azalea Garden that grew into the botanical garden we know today,” said Thomas Ransom, Virginia regional president for Truist. “In honor of those women and men and to pay it forward for minority students interested in careers in agriculture and green indus-

The Adventure Park at Virginia

tries, we wanted to establish a scholarship program to advance their access to higher education and advance their economic opportunities. It’s how we fulfill Truist’s purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities.”

The WPA Garden Heritage Day first came to fruition in 2008 with the creation of the WPA Memorial Garden. A year later, the commemorative sculpture Breaking Ground was unveiled along with the official dedication of the garden. If you have a family member that you believe is one of the 220 WPA workers, please visit the Garden’s website.

We are expecting higher than normal visitation, please reserve your FREE admission ticket online at NorfolkBotanicalGarden. org/events/15th-annual-wpa-garden-heritage-celebration/.

Press Release

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium, the area’s largest zipline and climbing adventure experience, announces their 2023 schedule of autumn-themed events.

“The autumn season The Adventure Park is always a favorite of our guests,” said Darlene Zimble, Park Manager. ”As the weather cools down and the leave change, it’s a season where the excitement of adventure meets the beauty of nature, making each visit a truly unforgettable experience.”

The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium will offer Glow in the Park, its signature nighttime event, on Saturdays through November 4, 2023 plus Fridays in October. Glow in the Park events are a highly popular and unique way to experience the Park with ziplining and climbing through an illuminated forest.

“Whether you choose a daytime or nighttime adventure” said Ms. Zimble, “guests will love the treetop vantage point to enjoy the changing leaves.”

Each Glow in the Park event features a music theme, from 80s Mixtape to Epic Movie Music. In October, Glow events feature an autumn-related theme with the following schedule:

„ Friday, Oct. 6: Fall Festival

„ Saturday, Oct. 7: Fall Festival

„ Friday, Oct. 13 & 27: Creepy Glow, recommended for ages 12+

„ Friday, Oct. 22: Halloween

„ Saturday, Oct. 14, 21 & 28: Halloween

Other October events include:

„ Iron Squirrel: This event will take place on Sunday October 8. Where guests are challenged to complete all 14 of the Park’s courses in a day to earn the title “Iron Squirrel.” „ “Eyeball” Scavenger Hunt: As part of our Halloween festivities, “eyeballs” will be strategically hidden throughout the Park. Find the locations of the eyeballs and win a treat from the Park Store. The scavenger hunt will run during regular operating hours from October 13 — 29.

More details on these events, as well as tickets for all the Park’s activities, are available on the Park’s website, myAdventurePark.com/VBAP. Participants may choose day or evening timeslots.

More about The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium: The 17 trails at The Adventure Park consist of 258 various challenges in the trees, including bridges, tightropes, ladders, and 33 ziplines. The longest zipline runs 315 feet and crosses Owls Creek for a spectacular view.

Participants wear harnesses with clips that connect to the trail’s safety system, ensuring that they are always locked on to the course until they reach the end. The main trails are designed for ages 5 to adult.

Non-climbing participants are admitted free of charge to share the experience on the ground and enjoy the property’s nature trails and picnic tables.

The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium is open to the general public and is located just minutes from the Boardwalk, on acres of forest on the grounds of the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. The address is 801 General Booth Boulevard in Virginia Beach. Walk ins are welcome on a space available basis, but guests are encouraged to book ahead on the Park’s website or by calling 757-385-4947.

The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium is designed, built and operated by Outdoor Venture Group. For further details and updates, please visit myAdventurePark.com/VBAP or call 757-385-4947.

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

On June 30, 1938, Representative Norman R. Hamilton announced a Works Progress Administration (WPA) grant project to create Norfolk Botanical Garden. A group of more than 200 African American women and 20 African American men were assigned to the project. The workers cleared dense vegetation under harsh conditions, and planted the first azaleas around what is now called Mirror Lake. In just one year, thousands of azaleas, rhododendrons, shrubs and trees were planted. During this time of racial segregation, the workers were not permitted to enjoy the Garden they created. Laborers were paid 25 cents an hour. By 1941, the Garden displayed nearly five thousand azaleas, and seventy-five landscaped acres that were encompassed by five miles of walking trails. (PHOTOS COURTESY NORFOLK PUBLIC LIBRARY)

Aquarium announces its schedule of Autumn events and Halloween fun!

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS, NEWS AND PHOTOS

The Flagship welcomes submissions from ourreaders online.

Pleasesubmiteventshere: www.militarynews.com/users/admin/calendar/event/

Pleasesubmitnewsandphotoshere: www.militarynews.com/norfolk-navy-flagship/submit_news/

PressRelease

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va Drop off used personal electronic items, vehicle batteries and more at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s E-Cycling event from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday September23 presentedbyPRAGroup.

Rain or shine, participants can plan on recyclingold,brokenorexpiredchildsafety seats, used vehicle batteries, prescription medication, personal electronic items and more. The event will be a drive-through in theAquarium’sEastParkingLotwithparticipating vendors including AAA Tidewater Virginia, Goodwill Industries, TFC Recycling and the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD). The Aquarium’s E-cycling eventisfreetothepublic butdonationsare appreciated and will go to the Aquarium’s Green Team and their efforts promoting sustainablepractices

Recycling events like this one provide a sustainable and responsible way to dispose ofelectronicitems.Thehardplasticinmany of these items will never decompose in a landfill. In items such as car batteries and prescriptionmedication,theacidorchemicalsintheproductscanendupintheground orwaterrun-offsandbecorrosiveandharmfultotheenvironment Manyoldelectronic devicescontaintoxicsubstancesthatinclude lead, mercury, cadmium, beryllium, polyvinylchloride,andchromium.Whene-waste istossedintolandfills,thesechemicalsseep into the soil polluting the ground water as wellastheair.

Once items are e-cycled, Goodwill assessestheitemsforsalabilityintheirretail storesand itemsthatcannotbesoldwillbe recycled in parts Electronics are made of componentsthatcontainvaluablerawmaterialsandcanberepurposedfornewdevices when they are recycled As a result, energy is saved, pollution is reduced, and there are

fewer greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere Recycling old devices saves energy. It also means that fewer raw materials need to be drawn from nature to create new devices Additionally reusing electronics can help members of the community who would not otherwise have access Itemsthatwillnotbeacceptedduringthe Septembereventincludehazardouswaste, televisions larger than 50 inches, CRT tube TV’sandcommercialcopymachines Ifyou have these items in your home, check your local landfill site for drop off For a full list

of accepted items, visit VirginiaAquarium com/plan-your-visit/events/e-cyclingevent. The Virginia Aquarium has hosted 22 e-cycling events since 2009 that have collectively diverted more than 330 tons or 650,000 pounds of e-waste from the landfill thanks to dedicated participants This event is made possible because of our dedicated volunteers Sign up to be a volunteer at https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/ support/volunteer

TheVirginiaAquarium&MarineScience Center is an accredited member of the

Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums TheAquariumisalsoamember of World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Virginia Aquarium’s mission is to connectpeopletothemarineenvironment inspiring a more sustainable future. It is locatedat717GeneralBoothBoulevard,just southofRudeeInletinVirginiaBeach.Visit www.VirginiaAquarium.comformoreinformation

KICKOFFCRAVINGS

TackleyourtailgatepartywithMVP-levelappetizers

ByFamilyFeatures

Beforethe end zonedances and sidelinecelebrations,settlinginforawinning gamedayexperiencestartswithdelicious foods.Whetheryourfootballpartiestake place at home,inthe backyardorright outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on itsfeet.

Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboardwith fan favorites likedips and wings.These versionsarebotheasytoprepareandcan be enjoyedfresh or madeinadvance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellowdiehards.

Visit Culinary.net to find moretouchdown-worthytailgaterecipes.

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AddSavorySpiceto

GameDayCelebrations

Powering up for asuccessfulgameday startswithapregamespread,andnotailgate or homegate is complete without a spicydipthatbringstheheat.

ThisGameDay Buffalo Chicken Dip is aperfectsolutionforfiringupyourcrowd asitrequireslittlepreparationsoyousave precious timebeforekickoff.Whether youbakeshortly beforethe gamebegins or make it ahead of timefor aparkinglot party,simplykeepitwarmandservewith chips or veggie sticks for aquick, shareableappetizer

Game DayBuffalo

Chicken Dip

Servings:3-4

„ 2cupsshreddedchicken

„ 8ouncescreamcheese

„ ½cupsourcream

„ 1½cupssharpcheddarcheese, plusadditionalfortopping,divided

„

½teaspoononionpowder

„

½teaspoongarlicpowder

„ 1heavypinchdrieddill

„

½cuphotsauce

„ 2greenonions,chopped „ bluecheesecrumbles

„ chips „ vegetablesticks

Heatovento400F.

In bowl,mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sourcream, 1 ½ cups shredded cheese, onionpowder,garlicpowder and drieddilluntilcombined. Addhot sauce; mixuntilcombined

Transfer mixturefrombowltoovensafedish.Top withadditionalshredded cheese,totaste

Bake until cheese is melted, approximately15minutes

Topwith blue cheese crumblesand choppedgreenonion. Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks

xxxxxx

ScoreaTouchdownwith aGameDayDip

One ofthe bestwaystotaketailgating to thenextlevel thisseasonisbymaking healthierversionsofclassicgamedayfare. Forexample,youcanbetheMVPofyour gamedaygatheringwithadelicious,hallof-fame-worthyappetizer.Callanaudible by using fresh, easyand healthyingredients to makeitbetter for youand score extrapointswithfamilyandfriends

This Game DayTacoDip takes fan-favorite flavors -beef,refried beans,salsa, guacamole,sourcream,cheese,tomatoes andblackolives-andaddsatwistwiththe

FreshExpress Butter Supreme Salad kit Thistasty,colorfulblend ofgreen butter lettuce,red butterlettuce, radicchio and babychardisavailableintherefrigerated produce department and is perfectfor creatinghealthierversionsofbelovedtail-

gatingdips,snacks,fingerfoodsandmore. Visit FreshExpress.com to discover morewinninggameday recipe ideas and findaretailernearyou.

Game DayTaco Dip

Prep time: 25 minutes

Cook time: 5minutes

Servings:12

„ 1poundgroundbeef

„ 1package(1ounce)tacoseasoning

„ ¼cupwater

„ 2tablespoonsmincedcilantro

„ 1can(16ounces)refriedbeans, zestysalsaflavor

„ 1jar(16ounces)thickandchunky salsa,mediumorhot

„ 2cupsguacamole

„ ½cupsourcream

„ 3packages(5ounceseach)Fresh ExpressButterSupreme

„ 1½cupsshreddedsharpcheddar cheese

„ 1cuptomatoes,chopped

„ 1can(2¼ounces)slicedblackolives, drained

„ 1package(14ounces)tortillachips

Inskilletovermedium-highheat,cook beef 5minutes,oruntil no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning;mix well Addwater;cook2minutes,oruntilwater isabsorbed.Transfertobowl;cooltoroom temperature.Addcilantro;mixwell

In 9-inch pie plate,evenly spread refried beans;top withseasonedground beef and salsa. Addspoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spreadtosmooth. Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner.Pipe sour cream to createfootballshapeonguacamole Putpie plateincenter of 15-by-18-inch tray.Arrangesaladblendaroundpieplate Topwith cheddar cheese,tomatoes and olives.Servewithtortillachips.

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JustWingIt

Skipthesilverwareatyournexthomegateand dive right in witha fanfavorite that requires justyour hands and aheap ofnapkins:wings

Whetheryoupickthroughyourpieces or clean each wing to the bone,these GameDayChickenWingsareperfectfor eaters of all types.Asimple flour-based coatingkeepstherecipeeasytomakeand bakingintheovenmeansyoucanskipthe messyfryerorfiringupthegrill.

Cook until crispythen corral your party’sfavoritedippingsaucesfromranch and blue cheese to barbecueand more. Onceyourspreadisserved,it’stimetosit backandenjoythegame

Game DayChicken Wings

Total time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4 „ ½cupbutter,cubed

„ ⅓cupflour

„ 2teaspoonspaprika

„ 1teaspoongarlicpowder

„ 1teaspoonsalt

„ 1teaspoonblackpepper

„ 10chickenwingettes,thawed

„ dippingsauces(optional)

„ freshparsley(optional)

Preheatovento425F.

Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange buttercubesonfoil.

In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika,garlicpowder,saltandpepper. Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture thenevenly space amongbutter cubesonbakingsheet.

Bakewings30minutes.

Turn wings overand bake15 minutes, oruntilcrispyandfullycooked. Servewithdippingsaucesandsprinkle withfreshparsley,ifdesired.

Stress and insomnia linked to irregular heart rhythms after menopause

ByAmericanHeartAssociationNews

DALLAS, Texas After menopause an estimated 1 in 4 women may develop irregularheartrhythms knownasatrialfibrillation in their lifetime, with stressful life events and insomnia being major contributing factors according to new research publishedtodayintheJournaloftheAmerican Heart Association, an open access, peer-reviewed journal of the American HeartAssociation Atrial fibrillation may lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure or other cardiovascular complications. It primarily affects older adults, and more than 12 million people in theU.S.areexpectedtodevelopatrialfibrillation by 2030 according to the American HeartAssociation

In my general cardiology practice, I see manypostmenopausalwomenwithpicture perfect physical health who struggle with poor sleep and negative psychological emotionalfeelingsorexperience,whichwe nowknowmayputthematriskfordevelopingatrialfibrillation,”saidleadstudyauthor Susan X. Zhao, M.D a cardiologist at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center in San Jose California. “I strongly believe that in addition to age, genetic and other heart-health relatedriskfactors,psychosocialfactorsare themissingpiecetothepuzzleofthegenesis ofatrialfibrillation.“

Researchers reviewed data from more than 83,000 questionnaires by women ages 50-79fromtheWomen’sHealthInitiative a major U.S. study Participants were asked a series of questions in key categories: stressfullifeevents,theirsenseofoptimism,social support and insomnia. Questions about stressful life events addressed topics such aslossofalovedone;illness;divorce;financialpressure;anddomestic,verbal,physical or sexual abuse Questions about sleeping habitsfocusedonifparticipantshadtrouble fallingasleep,wakeupseveraltimesduring thenightandoverallsleepquality forexample Questions about participants’ outlook onlifeandsocialsupportsaddressedhaving friendstotalkwithduringandaboutdifficult or stressful situations; a sense of optimism suchasbelievinggoodthingsareonthehorizon;andhavinghelpwithdailychores

During approximately a decade of follow-up thestudyfound:

„ About 25% or 23,954 women developed atrialfibrillation.

„ A two-cluster system (the stress cluster andthestraincluster)

„ For each additional point on the insomnia scale, there is a 4% higher likelihood of developing atrial fibrillation. Similarly, for each additional point on the stressful life event scale, there is a 2% higher likelihood ofhavingatrialfibrillation.

“Theheartandbrainconnectionhasbeen long established in many conditions,” Zhao said “Atrial fibrillation is a disease of the electrical conduction system and is prone tohormonalchangesstemmingfromstress and poor sleep These common pathways likely underpin the association between stressandinsomniawithatrialfibrillation.”

Researchers noted that stressful life events, poor sleep and feelings, such as depression,anxietyorfeelingoverwhelmed by one’s circumstances, are often interrelated. It’s difficult to know whether these factorsaccumulategraduallyovertheyears to increase the risk of atrial fibrillation as womenage Chronic stress has not been consistently associated with atrial fibrillation, and the researchers note that a limitation of their study is that it relied on patient questionnaires utilized at the start of the study Stressfullifeevents,however,thoughsignificant and traumatic, may not be long lasting, Zhaonotes Further research isneeded to confirm these associations and evaluate whether customized stress-relieving interventionsmaymodifyatrialfibrillationrisk.

Studydetailsandbackground:

„ Participantswererecruitedbetween1994 and1998

„ The average age of the 83,736 women included in the study was about 64 years old. Approximately 88% of the group were women who self-identified as white; 7.2% identified as Black women; and 2.9% self-identifiedasHispanicwomen.

„ As women live longer, they may face higherriskandpooreroutcomesassociated with atrial fibrillation. While high blood pressure,obesity,Type2diabetesandheart failure are recognized risk factors, more researchisneededabouthowtheexposure topsychosocialstressandoverallemotional well-beingovertimemayaffectthepotential developmentofatrialfibrillation.

Co-authors,theirdisclosuresandfunding sourcesforthestudyarelistedinthemanuscript Studies published in the American Heart Association’sscientificjournalsarepeer-reviewed. The statements and conclusions in eachmanuscriptaresolelythoseofthestudy authors and do not necessarily reflect the Association’s policy or position The Association makes no representation or guarantee as to their accuracy or reliability. The Association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific Association programs and events The Association has strict policies to prevent these relation-

(PHOTOCOURTESYAMERICANHEARTASSOCIATION)

ships from influencing the science content.

Revenuesfrompharmaceuticalandbiotech companies, device manufacturers and health insurance providers and the Association’s overall financial information are available online at https://www.heart.org/ en/about-us/aha-financial-information

About the American Heart Association: TheAmericanHeartAssociationisarelentless force for a world of longer healthier

lives

Wearededicatedtoensuringequitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovativeresearch,advocateforthepublic’s health and share lifesaving resources The Dallas-based organization has been a leadingsourceofhealthinformationfornearlya century Connectwithusonheart.org Facebook Xorbycalling1-800-AHA-USA1.

ByFamilyFeatures&CURAD

Many people look for natural products with “clean” ingredients, especially in the food,beverage,skincareandbeautycategories.Infact themarketforcleanlabelingredients is projected to reach $64.1 billion by 2026 accordingtoAlliedMarketResearch. For many common ailments or minor injuries,there’sanaturaltreatmentthatcan beusedinplaceofhard-to-pronounceingredientsandpreservatives

“This same kind of clean ingredient demand is migrating to the first-aid space with many of these natural alternatives being used to treat anything from scrapes and bug bites to wound odor and pulled or sore muscles, said Dr Billy Goldberg, a “New York Times” best-selling authorand emergency room physician “In fact, some companies are beginning to incorporate thesekindsofnaturalandefficaciousingredientsrightintotheirproducts.”

Goldberg and the first-aid experts at CURAD, which have made adhesive bandagessince1951,offerthesesuggestions fornaturalingredientsyoucanuseathome totreatcommonailments:

Epsom Salt

NamedforabittersalinespringatEpsom in Surrey, England, Epsom salt is not actually salt but a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium sulfate Long known as a natural remedy for several ailments Epsom salt can be used to relax muscles and relieve pain in the shoulders, neck and back It can also be applied to sunburns or dissolved in the bath to help relievesoremusclesordetox

Aloe Vera

Fewthingssoothesunburnlikealoevera

With analgesic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that ease the healing process,aloeveragelcontainsphytochemicalsthathelpreducepainandinflammation. Also helpful in the healing process of cuts and scrapes, the CURAD Naturals line of adhesivebandagesareinfusedwithaloevera inthewoundpadandsurfaceofthebandage, whichisenrichedwiththeantioxidantvitaminEtohelpsootheandmoisturizeskin.

Hydrogen Peroxide

A mild antiseptic that can be used to prevent infection of minor cuts, scrapes

andburns,hydrogenperoxideisoftenused for the initial cleaning of wounds Simply applyasmallamountontheaffectedareaalternatingwithwatertoavoidkillinggood bacteria - to help release oxygen, which causes foaming that aids in cleaning and the removal of dead skin.

Baking Soda

Bicarbonate of soda, commonly known as baking soda, can be used for more than baking From removing stains to cleaning teeth and more, it can also be used to help

In addition to beinganodorabsorber,itcanbeappliedto insect stings and bites, such as those from bees or mosquitoes. Whether making a paste using baking soda and water then applying to the bite or using an option like CURAD Naturals adhesive bandages featuring baking soda, the chemical compound can help soothe the skin. In addition to absorbing wound odor, the bandages provide skin-friendly comfort and stretch with a four-sided seal to keep dirt and germs out.

treat a variety of wounds

Manuka Honey

A honey native to New Zealand, manuka honey contains methylglyoxal as an active ingredient and has unique antibacterial properties that speed healing and help prevent and fight infections when applied as a topical wound treatment. It may also helpsoothecoughsandsorethroats prevent toothdecayandimprovedigestiveissues

Learn more about natural first-aid productsatCURAD.com

Natural, inexpensive wound care solutions you’ll feel good about adding to your medicine cabinet