Flagship December 6, 2012

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Serving the Hampton Roads Navy Family

Vol. 20, No. 49 Norfolk, VA | flagshipnews.com | 12.06.12

ENTERPRISE, NAVY’S FIRST NUCLEARPOWERED AIRCRAFT CARRIER, INACTIVATED

MC2 Nick C. Scott Attendees observe the inactivation ceremony of the USS Enterprise (CVN 65). Enterprise was commissioned in 1961 and was inactivated on Dec. 1 after 51 dedicated years of service.

Don’t be a regretful holiday host Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

Big ‘E’ recently completed 25th, final deployment

MILLINGTON,TENN.

Press Release

Navy families need to ensure they’re planning for the after party when considering plans for their holiday gettogethers, said Navy officials.

With the holiday season here, Navy leaders want holiday party hosts to make plans for guests to get home safely afterwards.

From Dec. 24, 2011 to Jan. 2, 2012, there were 33 driving under the influence (DUI) incidents involving Sailors.

“Depending on the laws of your state, if you host a party and serve alcohol, you could potentially be legally liable if an intoxicated party guest drives away and gets in an accident,” said Dorice Favorite, director, Navy Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Office (NADAP). “There are some steps you can take before, during and after your party to keep everyone safe.”

■ Prepare for an overnight guest or two – air mattresses and sleeping bags, anyone?

■ Always have taxi phone numbers handy.

■ Make sure you know who the designated drivers are ahead of time.

Make sure the designated drivers have the keys and ensure the designated drivers are parked where they are not blocked by other cars.

USS Enterprise Public Affairs

Press Release

Offer nonalcoholic beverages, or “mocktails,” for designated drivers and others who prefer not to drink alcohol.”

- NADAP director Dorice Favorite

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or crows, to the sleeves of the newlypromoted Sailors, representing their new rank.

“I’ve been in the Navy for three years and have never seen anything as professional and heritage-related as the ceremony we had today,” said Navy Diver 3rd Class Daniel Parson, assigned to MDSU 2. “Usually, it’s congratulations, a hand shake and you’re given your crow, but this ceremony felt like it meant more.”

While standing on center stage, the commanding officer sewed the first stitch

Nearly 12,000 past and current crew members, family and friends attended the inactivation of aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) at Naval Station Norfolk, Dec. 1.

Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, recently completed its 25th and final deployment and returned to its homeport of Naval Station Norfolk for a scheduled inactivation, held prior to the ship’s terminal offload program and subsequent decommissioning.

The inactivation ceremony was the last official public event for the ship and served as a celebration of life for the ship, and the more than 100,000 Sailors who served aboard.

The Chief of Naval Operations, the Commander of United States Fleet Forces, nine of 23 prior commanding officers, many decorated war heroes and thousands of Enterprise veterans attended the event.

“Enterprise is a special

» see DIVERS | A11

» see ENTERPRISE | A11

MC2 Steven Hoskins Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 command leaders sew on a 2nd class and 1st class petty officer crow on Navy Diver 2nd Class Steven Starner (left) and Navy Diver 1st Class Tyler Smith (Right), both assigned to MDSU 2, during a “Tacking on of the Crow.”

Navy divers frocking recovers piece of tradition

By MC2 Steven Hoskins Navy Expeditionary Combat Command

VIRGINIA BEACH

Navy Divers recovered a piece of tradition during a frocking ceremony at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Nov. 30.

Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 frocked three Navy Divers in an unfamiliar fashion to what most Sailors have witnessed in today’s Navy, during a ceremony called “Tacking on of the Crow,” in which Sailors took turns stitching on petty officer rating badges,

WWE VISITS NAVY SHIP Wrestlers from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) visited Sailors aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), Nov. 25. » see B1

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A2 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

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The event is free for active duty and their families to thank them for their service. Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Amber Feliciano was first in line, arriving at the ITT desk at 8 a.m., three hours before the tickets were released. She said her family is looking forward to seeing their favorite wrestler, John Cena.

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The WWE “Tribute To The Troops” tour, events and activities are open to active duty military and their immediate family members with valid military ID cards. Names of the WWE Superstars, Divas and Legends touring will be available leading up to the event. The live WWE “Tribute To The Troops” event will be held at the Norfolk Scope, Dec. 9.

Uniforms are not required for the “live event,” however, service members in uniform and their families will be given the opportunity to exchange tickets for premium seating beginning at 2 p.m. at the Chrysler Hall Box Office, located adjacent to the Norfolk Scope. The uniform for the event is Navy Working Uniform, or service equivalent. Ticket upgrades are on a first-come, first-served basis.

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WWE base visit schedule Dec. 6 ■ JEB Little Creek | 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Galley Lunch with Sailors ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 5 to 7 p.m. C-9 / Wind & Sea | Meet & Greet with Single Sailors

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JEB Little Creek | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | NEX Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ JEB Little Creek | 5:45 to 7 p.m. | Gator Bowl Bowling Social ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 8 to 10:15 a.m. | Q-80 | Meet & Greet Dodgeball Tournament ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Galley Lunch with Sailors ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 2:15 to 4 p.m. | NEX Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 5:45 to 7 p.m. | Pierside Lanes Bowling Social ■ NAS Oceana | 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. | Flightline Fitness Center Fitness Competition ■ NAS Oceana | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | NEX Parking Lot Ride & Drive ■ NAS Oceana | 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. | Flightline Fitness Center Meet & Greet at Jingle Bell Fun Run ■ NAS Oceana | 2:15 to 4:15 p.m. | NEX

Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ NAS Oceana | 4:30 to 6 p.m. | CPO Club Meet & Greet with Chief Community ■ NMCP | Noon to 1 p.m. | Galley Lunch with Patients, Staff & Families ■ Norfolk Naval Shipyard | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. | Mariner’s Reef Meet & Greet with Single Sailors ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 2:15 to 4 p.m. | NEX Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 5:45 to 7 p.m. | Pierside Lanes Meet & Greet with Patrons

Managing Editor | DavidTodd, 757-322-2860 Military Editor | MC1 Molly Burgess, 757-322-2799 On Liberty Editor / Designer | Tim Rafalski Graphic Designer | Rebecca Soorani Hastings Flagship, Inc. General Manager | Laura Baxter, 757-222-3964 Creative Director | Tricia Lieurance, 757-222-3968 Free Classified Advertising, 757-222-3982 Distribution, 757-446-2881 | Fax, 757-445-1953 Home Delivery, 757-222-3965

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Dam Neck | 9 to 10:30 a.m. | NEX Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ Dam Neck | 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. | Gym / Oasis Obstacle Course ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Main Gate Theater Parking Lot Ride & Drive ■ Naval Station Norfolk | Noon to 2 p.m. | NEX Merchandise Promotion ■ Naval Station Norfolk | 1 to 2:30 p.m. | NEX Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ JEB Little Creek | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | NEX Food Court Meet & Greet with Patrons ■ JEB Fort Story | 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | Gym Meet & Greet at Army/Navy 10K ■ NMCP | 2:30 to 5 p.m. | River’s Edge Meet & Greet with Single Sailors

Commander, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (CNRMA): Rear Adm.Tim Alexander Regional program manager for Navy Region Mid-Atlantic (NRMA): Public Affairs Director | Beth Baker

Editorial Staff

M IL ITA R Y IO N A P P R E C IA T

The Flagship® is produced by NRMA staff.The editorial content is prepared, edited and provided by the NRMA Public Affairs Office.

The Flagship® is an authorized publication for members of the military services and their families.The Flagship® is published by Flagship, Inc., a subsidiary ofThe Virginian-Pilot Media Companies, a private firm that is in no way connected with the Department of Defense (DoD), the U.S. Navy or the U.S. Marine Corps, under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy.

The contents, including advertising of theThe Flagship®, do not necessarily reflect the official views of the DoD, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Marine Corps, NRMA or Flagship, Inc., and do not imply endorsement thereof. Items advertised inThe Flagship® shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to advertising from that source until the violation is resolved.

Stories may be submitted via email to news@flagshipnews.com.The Flagship® is published everyThursday by Flagship, Inc., whose offices are located at 150 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, Va. 23510. Minimum weekly circulation is 40,000. © 2012 Flagship, Inc. All rights reserved.

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FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | DEC 6, 2012 | THE FLAGSHIP | A3 Sailors remove slot seals from catapult one on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) as the ship prepares to depart Norfolk Naval Shipyard to conduct sea trials.

Bush back to sea for trials

By MC3 Samantha Thorpe USS George H.W. Bush Public Affairs

George H.W. Bush is conducting sea trials in collaboration with Norfolk Naval Shipyard to train Sailors and ensure operability of equipment and systems following the successful completion of a four-month planned incremental availability period.

USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH, AT SEA

MC2 Timothy Walter

IWO JIMA ADVANCEMENT FAR EXCEEDS NAVY AVERAGE

By MC3 (SW/AW) Natasha R. Chalk USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) Public Affairs

USS IWO JIMA, AT SEA

There were 196 Sailors from the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) who received news that they were selected for advancement, Nov. 21, along with 26 Sailors from other units embarked on the ship.

According to Chief Navy Career Counselor James Coogan, this was the highest increase in advancement percentages in the last seven exam cycles.

“Iwo Jima Sailors significantly surpassed our goal with an overall advancement that was 20 percent higher in all pay grades compared to Navy’s average,” said Iwo Jima’s Command Master Chief Mario Romero. “With the emphasis on rate knowledge coupled with a deployment, Iwo Sailors obtained significant rate knowledge that resulted in these extremely high advancement rates.”

Coogan added that the additional time given while deployed allowed Sailors to focus on their trade, skill and studying.

“The PMK (Professional Military

MC2 Travis J. Kuykendall An MV-22 Osprey takes flight during flight operations aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7).

Knowledge) study sessions that the First Class Mess held really helped Sailors become prepared for the exam and the PMK portion as well,” he said.

Logistics Specialist 1st Class Karim Bullock advanced this cycle and actively participated in the PMK sessions offered aboard.

“The PMK sessions helped me a lot and I improved in all areas of the exam, especially PMK,” said Bullock.

Coogan emphasized that both the Enlisted Review Board (ERB) and Perform-to-Serve (PTS) are shaping tools for downsizing the Navy, but advancements for those who are eligible to test are not automatic.

“Sailors still have to put in the time to study for the exam and learn their jobs,” said Coogan. “Iwo Sailors have done that and all their hard work has paid off.”

The aircraft carrier USS George After H.W. Bush (CVN 77) is conducting sea trials in collaboration with Norfolk anything Naval Shipyard (NNSY) to train Sailon the ship ors and ensure operability of equipment and systems, Dec. 3. has been The ship is preparing for the upcoming training cycle and 2013 deployment changed following the successful completion of a four-month planned incremental or added, availability (PIA) period at NNSY. you have to “After anything on the ship has been changed or added, you have to go out go out and and knock the rust off,” said Lt. Cmdr.

John S. Fairweather, the ship’s 1st knock the Lieutenant. “It’s two-fold. For one, sea trials are good to give the crew time to rust off.” re-adjust to being out to sea. Secondly, - Lt. Cmdr. John S. because this class of ship gets the latest Fairweather and greatest upgrades, we need to go out to make sure everything works and was installed correctly during the availability. It’s a good way to kick off the training cycle.”

Tests being conducted during sea trials include: high-speed turns, aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) tests on the flight deck and hangar bays, sea and anchor testing, anchor drop testing and strainer runs.

Along with testing the ship and its equipment, Sailors were taking part by participating in drills, such as man overboard and general quarters.

“From my side in engineering, we did really well,” said Damage Controlman 2nd Class Kathryn Krueger. “We had a few hiccups at first, but in the end everything went well and we passed with flying colors on the AFFF testing. The successful completion of sea trials is extremely important for us because we are an aircraft carrier and the whole purpose of sea trials is to make sure our ship is ready to go when deployment comes.”

During sea trials, Sailors continue to work hard and maintain George H.W. Bush’s standard of excellence. The goal before returning home is to re-establish the proficiency of the ship, its training teams and its crew, as well as be completely prepared to accept the air wing aboard.

“Sea trials are a critical step in getting Air Department ready to support and host flight operations,” said the ship’s Air Boss, Cmdr. William E. Powers. “While we continue our relentless pursuit of perfection and hope for the best, we need to be prepared for the worst.”

During this underway, the catapults, arresting gear, fueling hoses and pumps, and all other equipment has been carefully inspected and checked to ensure proper operation for the upcoming flight deck certification period in January. Once sea trials are complete, George H.W. Bush will return to its homeport of Norfolk to enter its training and qualification cycle in preparation for a 2013 deployment.

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A4 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM Sailors offload 1..5 tons of cocaine and almost two tons of marijuana from the Oliver Hazard Perryclass guidedmissile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52).

FRIGATE OFFLOADS $114 MILLION IN DRUGS

U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility (AOR) supporting Operation Martillo (Spanish for “Hammer”) in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific littoral areas off the coast of Central America.

Operation Martillo is an interagency mission to combat the spread of organized crime in Central America and the use of the Central American

waterways and Southern approaches to Mexico and the U.S. as routes to smuggle illicit drugs, weapons and cash.

More than 134 tons of cocaine have been disrupted at an estimated street value of nearly $3.3 billion since the operation began in January.

Rear Adm. Sinclair Harris, Commander, U.S. 4th Fleet was on-hand for the offload

Carr returned to Norfolk from its final deployment, Dec. 3, and she is scheduled for deactivation in 2013.

Photos by Lt. Cmdr. Corey Barker

and discussed Carr’s successful mission.

“Carr’s deployment to 4th Fleet in support of Operation Martillo was a huge success and demonstrates our clear commitment to work together with our partner nations and interagency community to

combat the influence of organized crime and disrupt the flow of illicit drugs into the U.S.,” he said. “More than 80 percent of the narcotics entering Central America makes its way to U.S. markets via maritime littoral routes – with the main conveyance being by speedboats and submersible vessels.”

During this multinational operation, Carr worked with forces from partner nations, including Panama, Colombia and Costa Rica, helping to disrupt the flow of nearly 6,200 pounds of cocaine.

“Carr Sailors demonstrated flexibility and teamwork during this deployment. Our mission required us to work

with the Coast Guard, U.S. government agencies and our partner nations,” said Cmdr.

Patrick Kulakowski, Carr’s Commanding Officer. “Despite the fact that this is Carr’s final deployment, the crew performed as though it was the ship’s first deployment.”

The crews flexibility also attributed to their success.

“At the beginning of the deployment we operated in the Caribbean Sea, then on short notice we received orders to the Pacific, which required us to transit the Panama Canal,” said Lt. Cmdr. Neil Kruger, Carr’s Executive Officer. “We did so successfully and continued our mission where we were needed.”

Sailors aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52) prepare to offload 1.5 tons of cocaine and almost two tons of marijuana seized while conducting Operation Martillo to federal authorities. The ship is returning after a six-month deployment to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility conducting counter transnational organized crime operations.

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The Oliver Hazard Perryclass guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52) and embarked Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment (LEDET) offloaded 1.5 tons of cocaine and almost two tons of marijuana (worth an estimated street value of $114.1 million) at Naval Station Mayport, Nov. 30.

U.S. law enforcement agencies took custody of the drugs after they were offloaded for transfer, testing and disposal.

The drugs were seized while the ship was assigned to

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A6 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM A moustache montage – Sailors aboard the USS Roosevelt grew moustaches to spread awareness about prostate and testicular cancer.

PCU ARLINGTON SAILORS RECEIVE ANTITERRORISM TRAINING

“Movember” was started by a group in Australia in 2004.

They would grow a moustache for 30 days to raise money and awareness for prostate and testicular cancer.

By MC1 Eric Brown PCU Arlington Public Affairs

PASCAGOULA, MISS.

About 20 members of the Precommissioning Unit Arlington (LPD 24) Antiterrorism Training Team provided hands-on instruction for about 120 crew members, Nov. 26 and 28, in preparation for the amphibious transport docking ship’s delivery to the U.S. Navy on Dec. 7.

This training, which focused on watchstanding, personnel and vehicle searches and tactical movements, is a prerequisite for the sentry and chief of the guard qualifications Sailors will need to protect the physical security of their ship against all potential threats.

“This is a continuation of training we have been conducting for our Sailors for more than 18 months, and that has included weapons familiarization, computer and scenario-based training, and basic and advanced security reaction force classes,” said Lt. j.g. Scott Richards, the command’s antiterrorism officer. “This will ensure our Sailors are knowledgeable about Arlington’s pre-planned responses and able to do the right thing in any situation.”

When Arlington is delivered from Huntington-Ingalls Industries’ shipyard to the Navy, the crew will immediately assume all watchstanding duties and responsibilities, including armed sentries on the pier, on the ship and in picket boats in the water – 24 hours a day.

“The Arlington Sailors have been doing great at this training,” said Richardson. “They have been very enthusiastic and understand that the terrorist threat is real, and that the training they get today will make them better watchstanders tomorrow.”

Arlington’s antiterrorism training took place in three half-day sessions

Since then, Movember has caught on around the globe, having raised more than $299 million.

Courtesy photo

American men per day and affects one in six men on average. Luckily, if caught early and treated, there is an almost 100 percent chance the man will be disease-free in five years.

Lt. Cmdr. Patrick Evans, TR’s public affairs officer, said he first began participating in Movember last year. For Evans, the cause hits close to home – his father and two of his father’s siblings were diagnosed with prostate cancer, making him more likely to contract the disease himself.

“The major purpose of this is to raise awareness,” said Evans. “I wanted to help spur conversation about men’s health.”

Evans said he believes his Movember moustache has been successful in generating conversations about men’s health around the ship, as most people know him as being clean-shaven.

“People see me and say, ‘Hey, what’s that on your upper lip?’” he said. “That’s the opener to tell them more about prostate cancer and men’s health in general.”

Movember may not last longer than 30 days, however the message it intends to spread applies all year round. Though grateful to have been able to participate in a good cause, many newly-mustached TR Sailors expressed their relief in being able to return to being clean-shaven at the start of December.

“This is my first-ever ‘stache,’ and no, I don’t plan on keeping it,” said Meisner. “It’s really itchy.”

Roosevelt men grow moustaches for a cause

By MC2 Austin Rooney USS Roosevelt (CVN 71) Public Affairs

NEWPORT NEWS

The sudden influx of moustaches aboard USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) in late November does not mean Sailors are just getting tired of shaving their upper lips – many are actually participating in “Movember,” an initiative which aims to spread awareness about prostate and testicular cancer.

While some Sailors already had moustaches before Movember, many have joined their ranks to support the cause. Electronics Technican 2nd Class (SW/EXW) John Meisner said this year marked his first time growing a moustache in support of the cause.

“Considering how often men are diagnosed with these illnesses, I think it’s incredibly important to raise awareness,” said Meisner.

“The more people that know about it being a possibility that they could be afflicted with these cancers, the better – that way they will have a better chance to fight it if they are diagnosed early on.”

Movember was started by a group of 30 men in Australia in 2004, in which they would grow a moustache for 30 days to raise money and

awareness for prostate and testicular cancer. Since then, Movember has caught on around the globe, having raised more than $299 million since it started.

Unlike “No Shave November,” which involves a wide variety of facial hair, Movember is all about moustaches. The official rules of Movember state that on Nov. 1 all participants must start with a cleanshaven face and must only grow the hair on their upper lip, making the cause easy for members of the military to take part in.

“I first heard about Movember when the executive officer put it out over the 1MC,” said Meisner. “If it’s fun and it gets the job done, then hey, why not? I don’t mind looking funny for a month.”

Though the competition aspect of Movember is meant to be fun, the message is serious. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 8,590 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed in 2012.

Out of those, 360 will die.

Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon, but if it goes unnoticed and untreated, there is a chance it could be fatal. Early detection can save a man’s life from the disease, as treatment is very successful.

Prostate cancer kills nearly 88

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“This training gave me a better perspective of what to expect when I became a chief of the guard next week,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Handling 1st Class Matthew Kolb. “This training was good for us because it demonstrated a lot of tactics and techniques that will allow us to defend our personnel and assets.”

“Good communications among the watchstanding team is the key to successfully keeping the ship secure,” said Richardson. “We need to know our ship, ourselves and our tactics better than anyone else to keep our ship safe.”

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Health& Fitness The Flagship | flagshipnews.com | 12.06.12 | A7

TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION ■ about Lacey Lee Fitness Visit www. laceyleefitness. com, or call 288-5444 for a free consultation.

Also find “Lacey-LeeFitness” on Facebook.

Lacey Lee Fitness is located at 1313 Redgate Ave. in Norfolk.

Remember, “It’s not just a workout … it’s a lifestyle.”

By Lacey Lee Lacey Lee Fitness

NORFOLK

January is around the corner and we all know what that means – New Year’s resolution time. One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions people make is to lose weight, start exercising and/or to eat healthier.

We all have the best intentions when we set our resolutions, but many find them difficult to keep.

Research has shown that after six months, fewer than half the people who make New Year’s resolutions stick with them. And after a year, that number declines to around 10 percent.

A New Year’s resolution to lose weight and/or to adapt a healthier lifestyle (or any resolution you make) does not have to be doomed for failure. The key to making a successful New Year’s resolution is a person’s confidence that they can make a behavior change and the commitment to making that change. Below are some solutions for successfully keeping your resolution(s): ■ Choose an obtainable goal – You must be realistic when setting your personal fitness goals. Rather than concentrating on the end result, set several smaller goals. Take it one day at a time. Remember your fitness/ nutrition goal will not happen overnight. Take as many baby steps as you need, and know as long as you are moving in the right direction, your personal fitness goals will be achieved. If each resolution is the same each year and you don’t succeed, set a new resolution. Set yourself up to succeed, not fail.

■ Don’t change everything all at once – Adapting a healthier lifestyle is all about changing habits. If you want to become more active and eating healthier … pick one. Changing your lifestyle all at once is a recipe for disaster. You must realign your priorities. Initial attempts to succeed are limited until you change your habits and make the time for your new commitment. You must understand in order to see a change, you need to make a change.

■ Educate yourself – It is the utmost importance to know what you are doing before you start any kind of workout routine, or modifying your diet. You do not want to injure yourself, burn out, or get discouraged.

Unfortunately, media has saturated people’s minds on what to eat … what not to eat … gain muscle this way … do this workout … do that workout. Your healthy lifestyle is all about you. Everyone’s lifestyle is different. Everyone’s body is different. One way of eating may work for your friend, but not necessarily for you.

In order to successfully adapt to a healthy lifestyle, you must do what is enjoyable for you. You must eat foods that you enjoy and find exercises that suit you. There is something out there for everyone. You just have to look for it. If you do anything that is not enjoyable, inconvenient, or dreadful – you will not continue to do it.

Ask questions that specifically pertain to your goals. To ensure that you have the correct answers to your questions, turn to a fitness professional.

■ Do it for yourself – Your fitness goals should be based on what you want. Don’t let distractions get in your way. Treat your workout time like you would a doctor’s appointment. Your health needs to remain a top priority – if you don’t have your health, then all else around you will suffer.

■ Have a support system – Your support can come from work, home and/or at a fitness club. Without the proper support, these changes will become more challenging as time goes on. Find a friend/co-worker that wants the same “changes,” or has the same goals as you.

Surround yourself with like-minded people. You will not only motivate each other, but hold each other accountable.

■ Stay Positive – Everyone falls off the wagon at some point. You will have a bad day of eating and/or miss a workout. When that happens, don’t get discouraged. Remind yourself you are human and “mistakes” will happen. Get back on track as soon as possible. Recognize why the “mistake” happened and learn from it so you can avoid the mistake again.

You can get your cardio, core stability and strength all from the TRX.” - Anthony Benning

Photos by MC1 (SW/AW) Molly Burgess A group performs an exercise using suspension straps during a TRX Circuit Blast class in the N-24 gym at Naval Station Norfolk.

fitness series | part 1

TRX makes a home in NAVSTA gyms

By MC1 (SW/AW) Molly Burgess The Flagship Military Editor

NORFOLK

It has been just over a year and a half since TRX Suspension Training was introduced to Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) fitness specialists on Naval Station (NAVSTA) Norfolk to help gym-goers experience a new way of working out.

Although TRX training was not a new concept a year ago, it was, however, new to the gyms on NAVSTA Norfolk, where classes and circuit training emerged onto the fitness scene.

When TRX hit the gyms on May 5, 2011, the training classes were full and the mats were wet from sweating bodies who were dedicated to the training, but not long after the initial introduction, classes needed to be cut.

“The TRX training took off pretty good and then many of the instructors transferred causing us to slow down on the classes,” said Rachel Duffie, a group exercise instructor at the N-24 gym. “We now have five certified instructors and we were able start our classes back up a few months ago.”

Like many exercise regimens, TRX has changed over the 19 months of being onboard NAVSTA Norfolk, including strap enhancements for a longer lifespan, as well as the modification of other minor details, which allow for more challenging possibilities

for those who are veterans of the training.

“The workout program is constantly changing,” said Anthony Benning, MWR supervisor, fitness coordinator.

“More difficult movements have been added to the program so that we’re able to take it to the next level for a lot of Sailors.”

Along with the advanced changes, Duffie said that core strength is one of the other major benefits you can get from using the TRX, or coming to the classes.

“I have been a fitness instructor for six years and I just recently got into TRX,” Duffie explained. “You’re suspended – it’s a whole new ball game – so it trains you in a new way.”

Contrary to belief, the TRX classes are not just for the experienced workout guru, because of its versatility in exercises which rely solely on body weight, it is designed for a beginner’s workout as well.

“You are suspended and that scares some people, but I can take someone who’s never worked out before and take one of us as a fitness professional, and you can get the same workout. It’s all about body positioning and where you place your feet to get the best workout possible,” said Benning. “As you get better, stronger and more stable, you can adjust your position to make it more difficult, so you’re never going to outgrow the TRX.” So, what is it that keeps the TRX classes filled each week

online For more on TRX classes at Naval Station Norfolk, call 445-1519, or visit http://bit. ly/V5Vy0d.

with bodies ready to be suspended? According to Benning, the suspension training is a full-body, all-in-one workout that appeals to everyone.

“People who haven’t been working out come here and realize they can still do the TRX training and get a good workout,” he said. “Then there are those who workout every day and are in amazing shape, and they realize how great of a workout the TRX can really be.”

But don’t let the concept of being suspended while working out fool you into thinking the program is low impact and static. According to Benning, the TRX can be geared toward each person’s needs.

“It can be turned into a cardio workout and have people out of breath by the end,” he said. “You can get your cardio, core stability and strength all from the TRX.” The versatility of the training goes beyond the regular TRX suspension classes offered on-base ... it has also been incorporated into the base prenatal fitness classes.

“It’s great because it allows the hip motion to open up for easier delivery, strengthens the muscles around the hip flexors and allows for inner thigh work to help when pushing

Suspension straps hang from a bar during a TRX Circuit Blast class in the N-24 gym at Naval Station Norfolk.

during labor,” said Duffie. “It also stabilizes the back muscles to help with the process of labor a little better. The TRX benefits [pregnant women] a lot, better than just doing stationary exercises.”

Benning urges muscle builders to break-away from the weight-lifting room and come out to not only try the TRX straps, but also take part in the classes because “anything you can do with dumbbells, you can do with the TRX.” “It’s a gym in a bag,” said Jenny Takach, a fitness instructor at the N-24 gym. “You can take it with you anywhere you go, so there’s no excuse not to do it.”

TRX classes are offered at the N-24 gym on Monday’s and Wednesday’s at 6:15 a.m., and Monday through Thursday at 1:15 p.m. The classes are also offered at the Q-80 gym on Monday’s at 6:15 a.m.

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A8 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

homecomings

USS Carr returns home following final deployment Left: Operations Specialist 2nd Class Quinton McDonald, a Sailor assigned to guided missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52), hugs his son for the first time after the ship returned to Naval Station Norfolk.

Right: A Sailor hugs his children after Carr returns to homeport.

Carr is returning to its homeport of Norfolk after a six-month deployment.

Photos by MC2 (SW) Jeff Atherton

■ drugs seized The USS Carr crew executed seven highly successful interdictions, seizing nearly 4,300 pounds of cocaine and 4,700 pounds of marijuana, with a total estimated street value of $119.5 million.

Press Release Naval Surface Force, Atlantic

NORFOLK

Guided-missile frigate USS Carr (FFG 52) return to her homeport after a six-month deployment to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of responsibility, in support of Counter Transnational Organized Crime operations, Dec. 3.

Completing what is slated to be the ship’s last deployment, the Carr crew supported Operation Martillo, Spanish for “hammer.” It is a U.S., European and Western Hemisphere partner nation mission targeting illicit trafficking routes in coastal waters along the Central American isthmus. This joint

service, interagency and multinational operation is led by Joint Interagency Task ForceSouth, a national task force charged with detection, monitoring and supporting the interdiction of illicit trafficking in a 42 million square mile area primarily in the USSOUTHCOM area of operations.

Operation Martillo is a component of the U.S. government’s coordinated interagency regional security strategy in support of the White House strategy to combat transnational organized crime and the U.S. Central America Regional Security Initiative.

While operating in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean, the Carr team inter-

dicted vessels and speedboats smuggling drugs through Central America to destinations the United States. The crew executed seven highly successful interdictions, seizing nearly 4,300 pounds of cocaine and 4,700 pounds of marijuana with a total estimated street value of $119.5 million. During this multinational operation, Carr worked with forces from Panama, Colombia and Costa Rica. In addition to Carr’s interdictions, the crew disrupted the flow of an additional 6,160 pounds of cocaine.

While deployed, Carr provided assistance to two vessels in distress. In the Caribbean, Carr assisted an American sailing vessel, recharging the ves-

USS MCFAUL RETURNS HOME AFTER NINE MONTHS AT SEA

MC1 Lolita Lewis Family and friends wait as guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) pulls pierside to Naval Station Norfolk after a 281 day deployment to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation.

sel’s batteries to restore their radio communications. After transiting the Panama Canal to the Eastern Pacific, the crew of Carr’s embarked helicopter discovered a fishing vessel in distress. After boarding the vessel, Carr Sailors discovered that the fishermen were adrift for seven days with dwindling supplies of fresh water and food. They provided the crew with food and water and then towed the vessel to the nearest Panamanian port.

Throughout the deployment, Carr safely sailed more than 28,600 nautical miles while flying 570 hours of incidentfree helicopter operations. The crew conducted six overseas port visits without a single liberty incident. While in Wil-

lemstad, Curacao, the crew participated in Project Handclasp, delivering medical and hygiene supplies, and stuffed animals to a local orphanage, as well as cleaning up and improving the facility. The crew participated in two additional community relations projects delivering Project Handclasp materials in both Panama and Cartagena, Colombia.

Throughout the deployment, 81 Sailors earned their Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist qualification and 29 Sailors advanced during the fall advancement cycle.

Carr was commissioned on July 27, 1985 and is scheduled to be decommissioned on March 13, 2013.

By Ens. Susan Falt USS McFaul (DDG 74) Public Affairs

NORFOLK

After 281 days deployed to the 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation, guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) returned to her homeport, Dec. 2.

McFaul deployed on Feb. 26 with a ScanEagle Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) in support of counter-piracy and maritime security missions. Most recently, the crew participated in the rapid response to the Sept. 11 attack of the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

The Department of Defense postured forces, including McFaul, to respond to regional unrest and to support U.S. national security objectives in the region. As part of this increased posture, McFaul remained on-station in the region past her scheduled return date.

Under the leadership of Cmdr. Daniel J. Gillen, McFaul Sailors successfully travelled 55,000 nautical miles over their nine months at sea. They visited Gaeta, Italy; Port Louis, Mauritius; Port Victoria, Seychelles; and Koper, Slovenia, where sailors were given the opportunity to explore the local cultures, relax and participate in community relations projects.

As McFaul returned to friends and family, she flew the traditional Homeward Bound Pennant. The pennant is authorized for ships that have spent 270 or more uninterrupted days away from her homeport.

For each Sailor who has completed the full 270 days aboard, a foot of fabric is added to the pennant. McFaul’s pennant is just under 200 feet long. Upon arrival in Norfolk, every McFaul Sailor will receive a piece of the pennant.

Amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) returns from a scheduled deployment to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts.

USS Fort McHenry returns home Press Release Naval Surface Force, Atlantic

VIRGINIA BEACH

The amphibious dock landing ship USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43) returned to her homeport after completing a five-month deployment to the 6th Fleet area of operations (AOR) in the Eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Black Seas, Nov. 30.

“We completed our mission with the assistance of nearly 100 embarked Sailors from Riverine Squadron 32, Beach Master Unit Two, Assault Craft Unit Two, and nearly 200 Marines that made up a Security Cooperation Task Force – which we affectionately referred to as ‘Team MAC,’” said Cmdr.

Eric Kellum, Commanding Officer, Fort McHenry.

Perhaps the biggest highlight of the deployment came when Fort McHenry hosted

the Secretary of the Navy, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Chief of Naval Operations and the U.S. Ambassador to Ireland aboard for a reception for the “Emerald Isle Classic” Navy vs. Notre Dame college football game. Accompanying these distinguished guests were local, Irish media representatives, as well as embassy officials and the general public.

The crew kicked off the deployment by participating in valuable training and field exercises with the French Troupe de Marines during a port visit in Lorient, France.

During the visit, the ship was thrilled to host the U.S. Ambassador to France, Charles Rivkin, for a luncheon and tour.

Upon departing France, the ship sailed to the Black Sea off Constanta, Romania for a combined amphibious assault exercise with Roma-

nian Sailors from the 307th Naval Infantry during Exercise Summer Storm 2012 and Romanian Navy Day. “The Amphibious nature of our deployment allowed many of us, who have been for the past decade focused mainly on Iraq and Afghanistan, to re-connect with one of our core competencies, which is amphibious operations,” explained Lt. Col. Christopher Curtin, the Team MAC Commander of Troops, After the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya, instead of heading South to an African Partnership Station as scheduled, Fort McHenry supported Department of Defense efforts in the Northern Africa region.

“Team MAC demonstrated the versatility and adaptability of the Navy-Marine Corps team when we shifted from a West Africa theatre security cooperation mission and trav-

MC2 Scott Pittman

eled 1,500 nautical miles to be on-station, ready to support our nation’s bidding after our Consulate in Benghazi, Libya was attacked on Sept.

11,” explained Kellum.

“I am proud of the Marines and Sailors of the Security Cooperation Task Force and all that we accomplished,” said Curtin. “Having to quickly and seamlessly transition from our initial mission

of supporting theater security cooperation in Europe and Africa to supporting contingency operations, this deployment demonstrated the flexibility and diverse capability that the forwarddeployed Navy and Marine Corps team possesses.”

The deployment gave Sailors and Marines the opportunity to build ties with military members from other nations,

engage in theater cooperation security efforts and prove her dependability as a critical war fighting asset.

“Team MAC has truly demonstrated the awesome capability that a single amphibious ship and the NavyMarine Corps team can bring to the fight, the flexibility and options it can provide to the operational commander,” said Kellum.

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | DEC 6, 2012 | THE FLAGSHIP | A9

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A10 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

FIRST X-47B UCAS CATAPULT LAUNCH MAKES NAVAL AVIATION HISTORY

Press Release Naval Air Systems Command Public Affairs

PATUXENT RIVER, MD.

The X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator successfully completed its inaugural land-based catapult launch, Nov. 29, marking the start of a new era for naval aviation. “Carrier-based unmanned aircraft will change the concept of operations for the carrier-controlled airspace,� said Rear Adm. Mat Winter,

â– the launch The Navy’s first-ever steam catapult launch of the pilotless X-47B ensures the vehicle can structurally handle the rigors of the aircraft-carrier environment. the program executive ofďŹ cer for Unmanned Aviation and Strike Weapons. “The Navy UCAS program’s goal is to demonstrate integration of an unmanned aircraft into a carrier environment and reduce technical risk associated with developing potential future unmanned, carri-

er-compatible systems.�

The Navy’s ďŹ rst-ever steam catapult launch of the pilotless X-47B ensures the vehicle can structurally handle the rigors of the unique and stringent aircraft-carrier environment. “The X-47B shore-based catapult launch we wit-

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nessed here today will leave a mark in history,â€? said Vice Adm. David Dunaway, Commander, Naval Air Systems Command. “We are working toward the future integration of unmanned aircraft on the carrier deck, something we didn’t envision 60 years ago when the steam catapult was ďŹ rst built here.â€?

Since the birth of naval aviation, engineers have relied on experienced test pilots to help evaluate aircraft ying qualities and structural suitability. Today, the Navy UCAS integrated test team relied solely on data from a pre-programmed

automated X-47B aircraft to achieve these data points. “This test, in addition to the extensive modeling and simulation done prior to today, gives us great conďŹ dence in the X-47B’s ability to operate on the ight deck,â€? said Capt. Jaime Engdahl, the Navy UCAS program manager.

The combined Navy and Northrop Grumman team will continue ground-based catapult veriďŹ cation and ďŹ nal ight software validation at Pax River before embarking on USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) later this month for its initial sea trials.

Kelly Schindler A U.S. Navy X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System (UCAS) demonstrator makes its inaugural catapult shot.

The Navy will use the X-47B to demonstrate the ďŹ rst carrier-based launches and recoveries by an autonomous, unmanned aircraft in 2013. “We are breaking new ground with the development of a carrier-based system that enables launch and recovery support of an unmanned platform off a carrier ight deck,â€? said Engdahl. “Every test we are conducting at Pax River, and at sea, is a historic milestone for naval aviation.â€?

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| Ceremony’s

ENTERPRISE

DIVERS

| More than

goal to embrace heritage

10K Sailors served aboard ship during its lifetime

Continued from front

Continued from front ship and crew, and it was special long before I got here,” said Capt. William C. Hamilton, Jr., the 23rd and final Commanding Officer, during the ceremony. “Before I took command of this ship, I learned the definition of ‘enterprise,’ which is ‘an especially daring and courageous undertaking driven by a bold and adventurous spirit.’ Fifty-one years ago, this ship was every bit of that definition.”

“Here we are 51 years later,” he continued, “celebrating the astonishing successes and accomplishments of this engineering marvel that has roamed the seas for more than half the history of Naval Aviation. Daring, courageous, bold and adventurous indeed.”

In honor of that spirit, Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus, in a video message played at the ceremony, announced that the name “Enterprise” will be passed onto CVN-80, the third Ford-class carrier and the ninth ship in the U.S. Navy to bear the name.

Commissioned on Nov. 25, 1961, the eighth ship to bear the illustrious name Enterprise, the Big “E,” was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

A veteran of 25 deployments to the Mediterranean Sea, Pacific Ocean and the Middle East, Enterprise has served in nearly every major conflict to take place during her history. From the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 to six deployments in support of the Vietnam conflict through the Cold War and the Gulf Wars, Enterprise was there. On September 11, 2001, Enterprise aborted her transit home from a long deployment after the terrorist attacks and steamed overnight to the North Arabian Sea. Big “E” once again took her place in history when she launched the first strikes in direct support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

More than 100,000 Sailors and Marines have served aboard Enterprise

Harry Gerwien | Military Newspapers of Virginia A veteran of 25 deployments to the Mediterranean Sea, Pacific Ocean and the Middle East, Enterprise has served in nearly every major conflict to take place during her history.

online Visit flagshipnews.com to see more photos from the USS Enterprise deactivation ceremony.

during its lifetime, which has included every major conflict since the Cuban Missile Crisis. It has been homeported in both Alameda, Calif. and Norfolk, and has conducted operations in every region of the world.

For more information on USS Enterprise, her legendary history and Inactivation Week, please visit www.enterprise.navy.mil.

For news from Enterprise’s final deployment, pictures of the Inactivation Ceremony and video footage of the event, visit www.navy.mil/local/cvn65.

Enterprise facts: ■

Launched on Sept. 24, 1960.

Inactivated on Dec. 1, 2012.

■ The next nuclear carrier built by the Navy will be named “Enterprise.” (Announced, Dec. 1) ■ A crowd estimated at 12,000 attended the inactivation ceremony on Naval Station Norfolk.

■ 60,923 tons of steel; 1,507 tons of aluminum; 230 miles of pipe and tubing make up Enterprise.

■ 51 years of service (returned to Norfolk on Nov. 4, 2012 following its final deployment.

■ More than 100,000 veterans have served aboard.

■ 400,000 arrested landings.

■ 25 deployments.

■

■ Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 MDSU 2, part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), provides combat-ready, rapidly deployable mobile diving and salvage teams to conduct harbor clearance, salvage, underwater search and recovery, and underwater emergency repairs in any environment.

with the expectation of the Sailors to accept their new responsibility and authority.

The executive officer sewed the second stitch, while reminding the Sailors of the importance of the small details, where even the most mundane administrative task is important to the mission.

The command master chief sewed the third stitch and highlighted his role to the Sailors as a direct representative of the ideal goals of the petty officer.

The fourth stitch was sewn on by the officer-in-charge, the immediate senior, whose orders they have sworn not just to obey, but to understand and interpret those orders.

The fifth stitch was sewn by master diver, their deckplate mentor and the one who has the most influence to shape, guide and help the petty officer in both his daily routine and his career progression.

The sixth stitch was sewn by the Sailors’ peers, who help them get the job done and survive day-to-day.

The seventh stitch was sewn by family because no Sailor operates alone. Whether it be friends or family, each Sailor has a support structure outside of working hours that keeps him focused and grounded.

Once the crow was fully tacked on the Sailors uniform, you can no longer tell the difference between the first tack and the last tack. It symbolizes equal holding of all who sewed the crow and equal support to the new petty officers.

“The ceremony showed the support of everyone throughout our command,” said newly-frocked Navy Diver 1st Class Tyler Smith, assigned to MDSU 2. “It showed the people who helped us get to where we are and the people that respect us for how far we have come.”

“Tacking on of the Crow” dates back to the Royal Navy and days of the sail. Upon the arrival of the industrial age, sail and canvas gave way to engines and steel. The method of the tack transformed from sewing to punching, like the piston of a machine. Over the years, the ceremony slowly evolved into hazing, opposite of its original tradition.

“The message got skewed,” said MDSU 2 Command Master Chief Scott Brodeur. “It went from being positive and upholding and showing the good deed of the Sailor and seamanship, to something people were evil about.

From that point, it was no longer about a positive message.”

The MDSU 2 goal for the ceremony was to salvage “Tacking on of the Crow” to allow the Sailors an opportunity to embrace the heritage and tradition in a positive way.

“Our Navy heritage and tradition helps shape who we are and where we could be going,” said Cmdr. Michael Runkel, Commanding Officer of MDSU 2. “The reaction from the ceremony was positive and a good way to salvage and restart the traditions of old.”

■ don’t wreck a good time From Dec. 24, 2011 to Jan. 2, 2012 there were 33 driving under the influence (DUI) incidents involving Sailors.

For more tips on being responsible hosts, visit NADAP at www.nadap. navy.mil.

The Flagship archive photo

HOLIDAY SAFETY

| If your party

guests have had too much to drink, take control – arrange for a ride Continued from front “If you plan activities, like party games, door prize drawings or a gift exchange, you’ll engage your guests,” said Favorite. “They’ll be less likely to drink too much and they’ll remember the great time they had. You should also provide plenty of food to keep your guests from drinking on an empty stomach. Offer non-alcoholic beverages, or “mocktails,” for designated drivers and others who prefer not to drink alcohol.”

During the party, make sure the designated drivers don’t drink and be aware of who gets too drunk to drive.

If someone has had too much to drink, make sure they have a safe ride home. Don’t let anyone leave without your knowledge.

As the host, have fun, but not too much fun. To be a responsible host, you should stay within your limits in order

to make sure your guests stay within theirs. Close the bar 90 minutes before the party ends and serve a great dessert treat with coffee. Remember, only time sobers someone who has been drinking.

“If, despite your efforts, some of your guests have had too much to drink – take

control,” said Favorite. “Drive them home, arrange for a ride with another guest who is sober, call a taxi, or insist they stay over. A party should be a good time and not something you regret hosting.”

For more tips on being responsible hosts, visit NADAP at www.nadap.navy.mil.

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F-35C milestone The F-35 integrated test force aboard Naval Air Station Patuxent River completed a weapons ejection milestone for the Lightning II carrier variant, Nov. 28.

» see B7 SECTION B

|

F L AG S H I P N E W S . C O M

|

12 . 0 6 . 12

WWE Superstars lay the ‘Smack Down’ aboard the USS Stennis

By MC2 Charlotte C. Oliver John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

We’ve been to Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan so many times. We wanted to do something different this year and this is awesome.”

USS JOHN C. STENNIS, AT SEA

Wrestlers from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) visited Sailors aboard the Nimitzclass aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), Nov. 25.

The WWE Superstars, which included Vince McMahon, Eve Torres, Layla El Barrami, Ronnie “R. Truth” Killings and Mike “The Miz” Mizanin, were making their first visit to a Navy aircraft carrier.

“We’ve been to Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan so many times,” said McMahon, CEO and chairman of the WWE. “We wanted to do something different this year and this is awesome.”

While aboard, the wrestlers toured the ship and interacted with Sailors along the way, and observed flight operations as Navy jets roared on and off the flight deck.

- Vince McMahon, CEO and chairman of the WWE

■ local WWE events See A2 for a calendar of WWE events around Hampton Roads.

MC3 Kenneth Abbate Ensign Mark Rodriguez (right) explains aircraft recovery procedures to Vince McMahon, CEO and chairman of the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during an Armed Forces Entertainment-sponsored visit.

Navymedicine

» see WWE | B4

NAVY DENTISTS BRING SMILES TO TINIAN

By Marine Lance Cpl. Joseph Karwick Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni

TINIAN, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

MC3 Clay M. Whaley Adm. Cecil D. Haney (left) Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, and U.S. Pacific Fleet Master Chief John Minyard (center) listen as prosthetist Brian Zalewski explains the role of the prosthetics department at the Comprehensive Combat and Complex Casualty Care (C5) facility at Naval Medical Center San Diego during their visit to the medical center.

NMCSD’s new head prosthetist gets amputees moving

By MC2 Jessica Tounzen Naval Medical Center San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO, CALIF.

As children, when we fall off our bikes the first time riding without training wheels, when we sprain our ankles playing football, or when we take a line drive to the shins during a baseball game, we are encouraged to stand up, dust ourselves off and get back in the game. As adults, we’ll go on to face bigger obstacles and more troubling injuries, but that voice is always there in the back of our head, telling us not to give up, and helping us get back on our feet.

For amputee patients undergoing treatment in the prosthetics lab at Naval Medical Center San Diego’s (NMCSD) Comprehensive Combat and Complex Casualty Care (C5) facility, Brian Zalewski is doing just that.

Zalewski, a native of Marshall, Mich. is C5’s newly-appointed Head Prosthetist who has fabricated nearly 75 prosthetic

limbs for approximately 200 patients over the past five years of employment in C5’s prosthetics laboratory. A compact frame, neat appearance and quick smile are the first things you notice about Zalewski. The next is his genuine desire to help amputees regain mobility.

Zalewski describes his experience treating a Navy diver with a single amputation back in 2009. The diver had lost his leg below the knee and told Zalewski he wanted something to help him continue to pursue his love of swimming.

After conducting some drag tests in the swim flume at San Diego’s Naval Health Research Center, Zalewski came up with a solution: a makeshift fin. Zalewski was able to obtain a special ankle from a prosthetic manufacturer that was designed in such a way that pressing a button would allow the foot to bend backwards, an effect similar to that of standing on tiptoe to reach a high object.

» see PROSTHESIS | B4

U.S. Navy dental technicians provided dental assistance to the local Tinian community during Exercise Forager Fury 2012, Dec. 3.

The dental technicians saw numerous patients and performed a wide range of procedures in just one day.

“Today we conducted 13 emergency exams, five cleanings, five baby teeth extractions, 11 adult teeth extractions and one incision and drainage,” said Lt. Cmdr. Michael Flannery, a general dentist with 11th Dental Company, 3rd Dental Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force.

After only a couple days of work, the impact on the local community can already be seen.

“It’s really great when the [military] comes out and provides services like this, because the services that they provide are hard to come by on little islands like this,” said Joseph R. Santos, a local firefighter and emergency medical technician. “It is vital to the community, vital to the island and vital to the Commonwealth of The Northern Marianas.”

The dentists have seen a wide variety of issues, some more common than others.

“By far the biggest issues are cavities and loose teeth that the bone has resorbed, and it can be very discomforting for the patient,” said Flannery. “Some of these patients feel immediate relief after removing a tooth that

U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. J. Gage Karwick Victoria Sablan, 9, receives dental care from Seaman Jeffrey M. Ker at the Tinian Health Center, Dec. 3. The Navy medical personnel will be on Tinian for the duration of Exercise Forager Fury 2012 to assist with the medical and dental needs of the local community.

has broken down so severely that it caused a real issue in their daily living.”

Tinian has proven itself to not only be a great location for Marines to train, but also a location that benefits the local community every time they return.

“Hopefully the Marines can come back and help us again because it is really beneficial to us and our children who need better care at their young age,” said Rudeinn Sablan, father of 9-year-old twins, Victor and Victoria, who both received dental care.

Carter outlines U.S. security strategy in tight-budget era

By Amaani Lyle American Forces Press Service

DURHAM, N.C.

In a speech at Duke University, Nov. 29, Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter outlined new security strategies and challenges that he said will define the nation’s future in a post-war era of fiscal constraint.

Carter said the need to keep

the department’s “fiscal house in order” after more than a decade of war and under the threat of sequestration has spurred an approach of rebalancing and innovation as the Defense Department pivots to the Asia-Pacific region.

“We in the Department of Defense … are at a moment of great strategic consequence and great strategic transition – we’re at the confluence of two

great forces,” he said. “After almost 12 years of unrelenting and uninterrupted war … in two particular places, Iraq and Afghanistan – that era is coming to an end.”

While Carter acknowledged the war in Afghanistan persists, he expressed confidence in the strategy’s probability of success as U.S. forces draw

» see SECURITY | B4

HeroesatHome The Flagship | flagshipnews.com | 12.06.12 | B2

Military Moments: Transition from active duty to retiree Thank you for reading all these years and for sharing your own experiences and feedback with me! Fair winds and following seas dear reader.”

- Michelle Galvez

By Michelle Galvez Military Spouse Contributor

All good things must end, including my “Military Moments.” This, dear readers, will be my last column, as my family makes the transition from an active duty life to a retired one. I’ll always be connected to the military in some way, shape or form – from Air Force brat to Soldier to Navy spouse, ombudsman and family support coordinator – but now I’ll be joining the ranks of the retirees at the commissary we affectionately complain about. I’ll need a new ID card and my identity needs a bit of a tweak too. It is especially bittersweet, but it’s time for just about everything to change.

Instead of preparing for deployments, re-integrations and cross country moves, I’m researching veteran’s benefits and retiree issues. I’m more addicted to www.turbotap.org than Facebook at this point, clicking through the DoD’s official portal for military-to-civilian money, benefits and jobs.

After many years of following him following orders and putting the needs of the Navy first, our whole family is suddenly faced with an overwhelming array of choices to make. Where to live, how to make a living and budgeting for benefits we’ve always taken for granted, are on the list of decisions to make once the retirement ceremony is planned.

After being ordered to move to 11 different places, we get to pick a place to live – wherever we want.

What a concept! So, do we move to someone’s hometown, where we were previously stationed, where the good jobs are, or where the weather’s great, a state where there is no state income tax or an area where there is a big military presence?

Close our eyes and toss a dart at the map, or simply move off-base and stay where we are?

Once we chose where to live, it was time to discuss second career aspirations, take my husband suit shopping, craft a resume, send him to job fairs and spend our evenings trolling online job sites. Instead of

■ special thanks The Flagship would like to thank Michelle Galvez for her many years of writing columns for other military spouses. We wish her all the best in this next chapter of her life!

thinking about evals, boards and advancement in an orderly fashion, my service member is filling out applications for the first time in 30 years and prepping for job interviews with prospective employers.

I’m going cross-eyed checking boxes to elect healthcare, dental plans, survivor benefits and life insurance plans. In return for my spouse’s service, we’ve benefitted throughout his career from all of that being very inexpensive and automatic. But retirees are asked to enroll in new plans and pay much higher premiums with a reduced income. So, reading the fine print, having conversations and adjusting the family budget has become very important.

My husband spent years in training for his military career, but he’s

only spent a week in class preparing for retirement, and while spouses were welcome, I had to work and couldn’t attend. The website has been invaluable, but by the end of next year, the military’s transition assistance program will improve and feature classes on healthcare, life insurance, disability, higher education, vocational training and home loans in class and one-on-one counseling sessions with service members and their spouses to formulate personalized plans and a 12-month budget after separation.

It is an emotional end of a family’s era, but the military has certainly taught us to be resourceful, flexible and open to new opportunities, all of which will serve us well in the next chapter. Thank you for reading all these years and for sharing your own experiences and feedback with me!

Fair winds and following seas dear reader.

Michelle Galvez is a Navy spouse, mother of three, graduate student and government contractor. Email her at michellegalvez@hotmail.com.

Navy wife makes ‘Rising Star’ singing competition finals

By Jeron Hayes Naval Support Activity South Potomac Public Affairs

DAHLGREN,VA.

A Navy wife has qualified as a finalist in this year’s U.S. Army Entertainment-sponsored Operation Rising Star singing competition.

Christina Williams, whose husband, Fire Controlman 3rd Class Cody Williams, assigned with the Aegis Training and Readiness Center aboard Naval Support Facility Dahlgren, Va., will now spend time getting the word out to friends, family and U.S. Navy members that she wants them to visit the Operation Rising Star website to vote for her.

Williams is the only Navy entry to make the finals, and one of two military spouses competing in the Operation Rising Star competition.

Williams will leave this weekend to travel to San Antonio, Texas and begin preparation for the finals. She will compete live against 11 other contestants from military bases around the world.

The competition events will be

televised on the Pentagon Channel and streamed on the Internet. Events will begin on Dec. 9, and will be held on Dec. 11, 13, 15 and 17 at 8 p.m. (EST). The public vote will count for 50 percent of the winner’s score and voting will be open for two hours after each performance.

A native of Covington, Tenn., she has been a Navy wife for all of six months and turned 20 years old in June. Her parents and two younger sisters back in Kentucky are huge supporters of her singing.

“I have been singing since I was a little girl, but I started singing publicly when I was a junior in high school,” said Williams. “I sang in school and was a member of my church choir. I also sang at the Opera Memphis Summer Conservatory and the Orpheum Memphis Summer Institute. I would sing to open events held in and around town.”

Though she hasn’t participated in any Rising Star-type competitions, she has auditioned for show parts and for choirs. She said she is happy to have the opportunity to perform again.

“I try to perform as much as I can,

which until Operation Rising Star, hadn’t been as much as I would have liked,” said Williams.

Williams has had many who have provided motivation for her singing along the way.

“I have many personal inspirations,” said Williams. “My vocal coach, Dr. Sandra Franks, whom I studied classical music under, is a major reason that I sing today.”

She also counts her family among those that inspire her.

“If it wasn’t for the inspiration from my mother, I would not be singing at all,” she said. “My mom has pushed me when I thought I wasn’t good enough to do much at all. My mom and I have been through a lot together and I know that no matter what happens in my life, she will always be by my side.”

Williams also wants to inspire others with her music.

“I guess I would have to say that I would most like to be an inspiration through my music to young ladies like my vocal coach and my mother have been for me,” said Williams.

Should she emerge as the winner, her prizes will include a recording

My ultimate goal as a singer would have to be becoming a recording artist that young girls can look up to.”

- Christina Williams

Courtesy photo Navy wife Christina Williams has qualified as a finalist in this year’s Operation Rising Star singing competition.

session at a professional studio, as well as a cash prize. This would play right into Williams’ singing goals.

“My ultimate goal as a singer would have to be becoming a recording artist that young girls can look up to,” she said. “If I were to win the competition, I would like to

record a mixed style of show tune and pop music. I would like to have my own sound and style, so that I could be different from all of the other artists.”

To see a past Williams’ performance and to vote for her, visit oprisingstar.com.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR MILITARY CHILDREN OPEN TO APPLICANTS

By Tammy Reed Defense Commissary Agency Public Affairs

FORT LEE, VA.

In 2012, the Scholarships for Military Children Program celebrated a major milestone as it reached more than $10 million in scholarships awarded to 6,742 students from around the globe.

It’s time, once again, to add to these impressive numbers, as applications for the 2013 Scholarships for Military Children Program will be available, starting on Dec. 3 at commissaries worldwide. You can also find them online through a link

at www.commissaries.com and directly at www.militaryscholar.org.

Scholarship awards will be based on funds available, but the scholarship program awards at least $1,500 at each commissary. If there are no eligible applicants from a particular commissary, the funds designated for that commissary will be awarded as an additional scholarship at another store.

The scholarship program was created to recognize military families’ contributions to the readiness of U.S. Armed Forces and to celebrate the commissary’s role in the mili-

tary community.

“DeCA is focused on supporting a good quality of life for our military and their families,” said Defense Commissary Agency Director and CEO Joseph H. Jeu. “We do that by delivering a great commissary benefit, while our industry partners and public donations help the scholarship program provide money for higher education to many worthwhile students.”

To apply for a scholarship, the student must be a dependent, unmarried child, younger than 21 – or 23, if enrolled as a full-time student at a col-

lege or university – of a service member on active duty, reservist, Guardsman, retiree or survivor of a military member who died while on active duty, or survivor of a retiree. Eligibility is determined using the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) database.

Applicants should ensure that they, as well as their sponsor, are enrolled in the DEERS database and have a current military ID card. The applicant must also be planning to attend or already attending an accredited college or university, full-time, in the fall of 2013, or be enrolled in

a program of studies designed to transfer directly into a four-year program.

Applicants must submit an essay on a topic chosen by the Fisher House. The essay topic will be available, Dec. 3, on www.militaryscholar. org. Applications must be turned in to a commissary by close of business on Feb. 22, 2013.

The scholarship program is administered by Fisher House Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to service members and their families.

Scholarship Managers, a national, non-profit, scholar-

ship-management services organization, manages and awards these military scholarships. If students have questions about the scholarship program application, call Scholarship Managers at (856) 616-9311, or email them at militaryscholar@ scholarshipmanagers.com.

No government funds are used to support the Scholarships for Military Children Program. Commissary vendors, manufacturers, brokers, suppliers and the general public donate money to fund the program. Every dollar donated goes directly to funding the scholarships.

NavyBriefs

FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM | DEC 6, 2012 | THE FLAGSHIP | B3 Royal Navy photo

PUMA AE: ‘EYE IN THE SKY’ High over head, rain or shine, an elusive, yet sophisticated surveillance equipment flies in areas that are difficult to see with the naked eye. This system is called Puma AE (Pointer Upgraded Mission Ability – All Environment), and the U.S. Navy is currently testing it aboard ships in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. A two-person team, consisting of an operation and mission controller, collaborates to operate a system to act as an “eye in the sky.” The mission control person tells the operator where to zoom in and zoom out, and where to fly and land the craft.

See more at http://bit.ly/RzzEUh

FIRE SCOUT BREAKS ENDURANCE RECORDS ON KLAKRING DEPLOYMENT The Navy’s fourth Fire Scout detachment returned to Mayport, Fla., Dec. 1, after achieving several milestones during its five-month deployment aboard USS Klakring (FFG 42). The Fire Scout unmanned helicopter detachment logged more than 500 flight hours in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility in support of anti-piracy operations and providing real-time intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) support to combatant commanders.

See more at http://bit.ly/RzzRqO

NAVY OFFERS STUDENTS MENTORS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES An employee from Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City (NSWC PCD) employee, was named a 2012 Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) engineer of the year, Nov. 21.

Tracy Nye, along with two other NAVSEA Warfare Center employees, Dr. Christine Michienzi of NSWC Indian Head and Shawn McDonald of NSWC Dahlgren, were named recipients of the NAVSEA 2012 Engineer, Scientists and Technical Authority of the Year for outstanding achievements in engineering, science and technical authority.

See more at http://bit.ly/UmuNCS

Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta speaks with Army Capt. John Rutledge at the Art in Embassies “Best in Show” awards ceremony at the Pentagon, Nov. 30.

Pentagon honors ‘Best in Show’ photography winners

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall, Jr. American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON

Defense Department leaders honored 12 photography winners, selected from over 3,000 submissions, for their participation in the Arts in Embassies Program, Nov. 30.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta; Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and Pentagon Press Secretary George E. Little recognized 12 “Best in Show” winners for the “Serving Abroad … Through Their Eyes” category of the program.

At a Pentagon ceremony where the exhibit is on display, the chairman quoted Aristotle in describing the purpose of art.

“The importance of art is not to reveal the outward appearance of things, but the inward significance of things,” said Dempsey. “This was really an easy [program] to get behind. It really was exciting.”

The Arts in Embassy program started during the Kennedy administration.

“It is a true honor for all of us to be a

Help salute the heroes among us in the Health Care community!

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part of the 50th Anniversary,” said Little, noting that Panetta intently studied each image and read its accompanying caption.

The 12 winners were selected from 161 finalists by a panel of distinguished judges from a pool of 3,267 photos submitted by troops and members of the foreign and civil service.

Of the 12 photos selected, eight were taken by service members, including five who are graduates of the Defense Information School, at Fort Meade, Md. Little, who described the Arts in Embassies program as a “unique initiative,” noted as the Pentagon press secretary he “attaches a lot of eloquence to spoken words.” “[But] no words can capture the elegance of these images,” he said. “The elite panel of judges [who selected these], included three former chairmen, two former secretaries of state and an NBC News [correspondent].”

The 12 Best in Show finalists received a plaque engraved with the signatures of Panetta and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, as well as their respective award-winning photo.

■ awarded to the 12 finalists The 12 “Best in Show” finalists received a plaque engraved with the signatures of Panetta and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, as well as their respective award-winning photo.

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B4 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

SECURITY

| Carter explains strategy

|

Wrestlers participated in Q&A with Sailors

Continued from B1 down and Afghan security forces maintain stability. â€œâ€Ś The principal requirement [is] to ensure the country is no longer a danger to the U.S.,â€? he said.

Looking forward, military leadership determined that U.S. forces must be leaner, more agile, ready and technologically advanced. “We wanted to take steps to make the most effective use of our force in the era after Iraq and Afghanistan,� he said.

The new concept of readiness, according to Carter, involves preserving and building on the strength of the all-volunteer active duty, Guard and reserve force developed during the last decade. “We wanted to retain [the force] and we wanted to respect it [with] no sudden changes as the war came to an end,� he said.

Carter said he also aims to shift the weight of intellectual effort to future challenges by continuing to invest in special operations forces, electronic warfare, and space and cyber technology.

These investment areas, he explained, will be best leveraged in the Asia-PaciďŹ c region, where a considerable amount of the U.S. future security and economic interests lie.

Carter noted the unique history of the region that he said never had NATO nor “any structure to heal the wounds of World War II, and yet it has had peace and stability for 70 years.�

Because he credits sustained American military presence in the region with the long span of peace, Carter said his goal as the U.S. pivots to the PaciďŹ c is simple. “We want to ‘keep on keepin’on’with what that region has: an environment of peace and stability in which the countries of the region – all of them – can continue to enjoy economic prosperity,â€? said Carter.

As partnerships with Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Australia continue to blossom, Carter urges broadening the U.S. military strategy to one of national strategy, including economic engagement, long-standing principles of self-governance and free, open access to commerce. “That environment is not a birthright,� he said. “It’s something that results in important measure from the continued pivotal presence of the U.S. military in that region.�

The U.S. will continue to work with new security partners, such as India, Philippines, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations collective and China while setting priorities for the kinds of capabilities that are relevant for the Asia-PaciďŹ c region. â€œâ€Ś We can enhance our Asia-PaciďŹ c region posture ‌ because of the end of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars which frees up capacity,â€? he added.

Therefore, Carter said the U.S. will move more security assets into the region, such as the deployment of F-22 Raptor and F-35 Joint Strike Fighter aircraft to Japan and an expand-

WWE

Continued from B1

DoD Photo By Glenn Fawcett Deputy Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter delivers remarks at Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy in Durham, N.C., Nov. 29.

ing rotational bomber presence on Guam.

Key defense investments that remain shielded from budget cuts include KC-46 tanker aircraft, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance technology and the Virginiaclass submarine, which Carter said maintains “unrivaled undersea dominance.â€? New training infrastructure involves joint, multi-lateral exercises designed to strengthen partnerships with nations in the Asia-PaciďŹ c Region, he added. “Partners are a force multiplier for us,â€? said Carter. “We’re not only emphasizing our existing alliances and partnerships, but [we’re also] trying as hard as we can to build new ones.â€?

It is for these reasons, he said, that the U.S. can and will ďŹ nd the military capacity and intellectual resources to support the strategic rebalance to the Asia-PaciďŹ c Region.

But Carter shared a question he said is on the minds of many Americans: Can the U.S. accomplish these endeavors with the anticipated budget cuts?

As the DoD’s strategic juncture in history and the current era of ďŹ scal belt-tightening overlap, Carter described the defense strategy as an “unprecedented processâ€? in terms of the depth of presidential involvement.

Carter said President Barack Obama invested signiďŹ cant time and effort with defense leadership to develop strategic budgetary cuts.

Still, Carter explained absent swift Congressional approval for follow-on measures to the Budget Control Act, sequestration could be “disastrous� for national defense. “If it comes to pass, it will hollow out the force,� he said.

In the meantime, Carter said he and other DoD ofďŹ cials remain resolute in the task of providing U.S. national security while being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. “We hope that by being good strategists and sound managers, we can continue to defend the country and enjoy the trust of the people it’s our responsibility to defend,â€? said Carter.

“I was in awe of the young ages of the men and women who are turning these planes,� said Torres, the current WWE Diva champion. “Everything operates like clockwork – it’s amazing.�

After ight operations, the wrestlers toured the ship’s navigation bridge and posed for photos with Sailors. “I’m excited,â€? said Seaman Elexus Rosechong. “This is deďŹ nitely one of the most memorable moments in my Navy career.â€? “This was great for them to come out here and visit us,â€? said Lt. Rob Gordon, a pilot assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron 14. “It was a good morale boost, especially for

MC3 Kenneth Abbate World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar “The Mizâ€? ips through pages of the WWE’s encyclopedia belonging to Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Anthony White aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74).

those Sailors who are spending the holidays away from home.�

For some Sailors, it was an opportunity to share the experience with family back at home. “My little brother is a big fan of wrestling,� said Aviation Machinist’s Mate 3rd Class Alona Harper. “They autographed a photo for me and I’m sending it home to him for Christmas.�

The wrestlers culminated their visit with a question and answer session with the crew

PROSTHESIS | Continued from B1 Zalewski then constructed a socket to allow for seamless movement between the patient’s leg and the prosthetic ankle. The ďŹ nished product was a success – Zalewski still receives calls from the patient occasionally, updating him on his progress, which was made possible with his help.

Zalewski earned his Bachelor’s in Zoology from California State University Dominguez Hills in 2004. Following his graduation, he completed a year-long residency at the West Los Angeles and Long Beach Veterans Affairs hospitals. He started out fabricating prosthetic legs for Wounded Warriors at these two hospitals. He was interested in a medical ďŹ eld that was unique and would allow him to use his hands – prosthetics seemed like a good ďŹ t.

After gaining experience as a prosthetic technician, he went on to earn his certiďŹ cation in prosthetics in early 2007.

During his subsequent employment in the orthotic and prosthetic clinics at the University of New Mexico’s Carrie Tingley Hospital, he heard about a new facility opening in San Diego to treat the diverse and complex needs of wounded, ill and injured service members, and others in need

on the aft mess decks, where Sailors asked questions ranging from who was going to the next Wrestlemania to what kind of injuries they’ve suffered in the ring. “I enjoy hearing their (the Sailors) stories, not just shaking their hand and taking a picture,� said Mizanin. “It’s incredible to see the unity aboard this ship and I appreciate it even more. You can watch the news all you want, but to see the lifestyle you all live, it’s just incredible to me.�

Lifelong relationships built

of comprehensive care. He investigated the opportunity and was hired as one of C5’s prosthetist in June of 2008. “I just heard about the facility and wanted to get into that type of prosthetic work,� said Zalewski. “I wanted to help those young, active patients who want to push the limits of their prosthetics. I have a great deal of respect for the military and I wanted to give back.�

Giving back to those who have made such great sacriďŹ ces meant caring for patients whose injuries are often extensive and complex, requiring prosthetics to be custom designed to each individual patient’s needs. “Over the last year or two, the number of bilateral amputations (more than one limb) has been very high. Anytime there are multiple amputations, the greater the complexity of prosthetics needed,â€? he said. “If it’s one joint, two joints, if they’re missing an arm or ďŹ ngers, it all has to be able to work together. If someone’s missing an upper extremity, they still have to be able to put a prosthetic on their lower extremity ... my job is to make it all mesh seamlessly.â€?

Despite his daily contact with patients coping with such devastating injuries, Zalewski said those patients are also some of the most tenacious of any he has ever met.

“They don’t think about what they could be doing – they just want to do it,� he said. “They’re always asking me, ‘What can I do next?’ They never settle. They want to walk, and if they can walk, they want to run. If they can run, they want to ride a bike.�

Zalewski is determined to help them get there. His methods are simple: assess the patient’s medical condition and unique needs, but also sit down with them to ďŹ nd out what their end goal is. He is also careful to impress the importance of patience while allowing the wounds to heal.

He encourages setting goals and helps his patients understand what it will take to reach them.

Once the patient’s individual treatment plan is laid out, it’s time for Zalewski to fabricate a device that will allow the patient to do something they might not otherwise be able to do. It’s a science, but it’s also an art, he said. And it doesn’t stop there. “I’ve built lifelong relationships with my patients,â€? he said. “It’s not like a surgery where you follow up after the procedure and that’s it. With these guys, they’re always going to be adapting, doing this activity or trying that sport. It’s an ongoing thing and that’s what’s so unique about this ďŹ eld.â€?

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CHILD, CAREGIVER OF WOUNDED WARRIOR SHARES HIS STORY Press Release CNIC Public Affairs

WASHINGTON

John Christian “J.C.” Fennell, son of Navy Musician 1st Class Kenneth Fennell, is not an average teenager worried about sports, classes and hanging out with his friends.

As the child of a Wounded Warrior, his responsibilities go far beyond the typical American teenage lifestyle.

Kenneth is currently receiving care at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC) in Bethesda, Md. He was diagnosed in 2011 with a grade-four gioblastoma, an inoperable brain tumor.

Along with his mother Bridgit, 16-year-old J.C. provides around-the-clock assistance to his father. His sister, 14-year-old Emily, attends ballet school in Boca Raton, Fla. and she visits her family whenever possible.

“I work with my mom to make sure that [my father] is eating, that he’s comfortable, that he’s not in pain,” said J.C. about the daily support he provides. “I just try to make sure he can keep the dignity that we all take for granted when we’re well.”

Like many children of Wounded Warriors, J.C. is mature beyond his years and he willingly shares the respon-

I work with my mom to make sure that [my father] is eating, that he’s comfortable, that he’s not in pain.”

-16-year-old J.C. Fennell

sibility of providing nearly full-time assistance to his father. These children, who put their lives on hold and often experience exhaustion and significant emotional turmoil, are a less visible segment of the Wounded Warrior caregiver population. J.C. is brimming with ideas to improve the support available to the children of Wounded Warriors.

Based in Baltimore, Md., the Fennell family has temporarily relocated to Bethesda, and J.C. and Bridgit reside at the Fisher House nearby the hospital. They spend each day together with Kenneth and they take turns sleeping in his room, ensuring he is rarely alone. J.C. was previously homeschooled, but when his father’s condition became critical, he took an indefinite hiatus from his studies.

When asked about his plans

chaplain’scorner

The Season of Advent Lt. John E. Kelly Staff Chaplain, NAS Oceana/Dam Neck Annex Chapel

Over the years, I’ve had many people from various Christian and non-Christian denominations ask me what the Season of Advent is and its significance in the Catholic Church. They have various reasons for asking this, but mostly I believe it is out of curiosity and openness to learning what the Catholic Church and other Christian denominations believe, celebrate and practice.

Advent, which comes from the Latin word for “arrival or coming,” is a period of preparation for the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Advent begins four weeks before Christmas and is the start of the Christmas season, which lasts through the baptism of our Lord. The first Sunday of Advent, which was Dec. 2, also marks the beginning of the new liturgical year, the church’s “NewYear’s Day,” at which time we change the readings that we use in the celebration of the Mass.

Unlike the secular world, which focuses on the material aspects of Christmas, such as lights, trees, money, presents, etc., the church uses this time to spiritually prepare its people for the celebration of the birth of the Lord and to prepare us for his eventual second coming.

Advent is a time of joyous anticipation and also one of reflection. It is a time for all of us to meditate on and think about what we can do as individuals, and as a society to make our lives and the lives of our brothers and sisters throughout the world better. It is a period that should foster within us a quiet hope that our world, our lives, can eventually find the peace which is, as they say, “the reason for the season.”

In order to foster this period of joy, anticipation and preparation, there are some things that you will see if you come to the Chapel at NAS Oceana or DNA that aren’t there during the rest of the year. For instance, the Advent Wreath, probably one of the most popular Advent traditions that most likely began in pre-Christian Germany and Scandinavia, where people gathered to cel-

ebrate the return of the sun after the winter solstice.

The circular wreath made of evergreens with four candles interspersed represented the circle of the year and the life that endures through the winter. As the days grew longer, people lit candles to offer thanks to the “sun god” for the light. For us, the lighting of the Advent candles represents the promise of the coming of Jesus, the light of the world. You will also see the color purple. The Altar linens, the vestments worn by the priest/minister and three of the four candles in the Advent Wreath are all colored purple.

Advent is a time of joyous anticipation, but also of penance and preparation for the great feast of Christmas, and the color purple is a symbol of our willingness to atone for our weakness and sins, and turn our hearts toward God. There is one candle in the wreath that is rose-colored, which is the color of joy. This candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, which is called “Guadete Sunday,” which is a Latin word taken from the opening prayer or song of that day’s Mass: “Gaudete in Domino semper,” which means “Rejoice in the Lord always.”

There are other customs that we use in this period of Advent that help to prepare for the celebration of Christmas, such as the “Jesse Tree” (a representation of the genealogy of Jesus Christ), the Posada (which reenacts the journey to Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem), the Advent Calendar, the celebration of the feast of St. Nicholas (our modern day Santa Claus), etc., but those are the two main things that you will notice when you enter the Chapels.

Advent is a time set aside, regardless of our religious or non-religious affiliations, to physically, spiritually and emotionally prepare ourselves for the beginning of a New Year.

We have an opportunity to look back at our lives and change those things that need to be changed and strengthen those areas that need strengthening.

It is, if we take the opportunity, a chance to reflect on our lives and to renew our lives.

for the future, he said, “I’m looking at maybe taking a GED program and going to college early, but right now, I am just trying to spend as much time with my family as possible and help however I can.”

Judith Carlisle, a Navy Wounded Warrior (NWW) Safe Harbor representative at WRNMMC, has been providing non-medical assistance to the Fennell family for more than a year. She said that J.C. and Emily are the lights of their father’s life, and that the father-son bond is particularly strong.

“J.C. just breathes life into every room he’s in,” said Carlisle. “He and his father have the same sense of humor – it’s so funny. They do a little dance whenever Kenneth is about to have an x-ray. They find humor in even the darkest of times.

Kids live in the moment, and when he’s with J.C., MU1 Fennell doesn’t have to focus end-

lessly on his prognosis. They are magical together.”

When asked how he copes with the stress of caring for his father, J.C. echoed Carlisle’s comments.

“You’ve got to have a sense of humor and you’ve got to laugh at yourself,” he said.

“You’ve got to take it one day at a time.”

He notes that Carlisle has been a source of assistance to the Fennell family every step of the way. NWW has provided referrals for their every need, including securing a Navy-Marine Corps nurse and connecting them with the Special Compensation for Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (SCAADL) benefit.

“Judith has been a big help.

She has been doing super awesome work behind-the-scenes.

She even got me tickets to a Redskins game – my first professional football game –

Courtesy of J.C. Fennell Musician 1st Class Kenneth Fennell, a saxophonist assigned to the U.S. Navy Band since 2002, receives care at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

which was amazing,” J.C. said.

After separating from the Navy when he was younger, Kenneth reenlisted in the Navy in 2002, when he joined the prestigious U.S. Navy Band as a saxophonist. Between 2002 and 2003, the Fennell family moved five times – Kenneth also often worked very long hours when he was touring.

From 2009 to 2011, he also filled a public affairs billet simultaneously, writing for Fanfare, the Navy Band’s bimonthly newsletter. Earlier this year, he was awarded a commendation medal for his exceptional dedication

and achievement.

Kenneth’s prognosis is terminal and he currently struggles with limited mobility as his tumor increases in size.

Still, said his son, he has a positive attitude and he is always smiling when his children are nearby.

“He loves us very much,” said J.C. “Everyone loves him, too. He always has the loudest laugh in the room and he’s a really big-hearted guy.”

A keyboardist who composes his own music, J.C. added, “My dad instilled in me a love of music and love of other people. He’s the best dad anyone could ask for.”

B6 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. Jonathan Greenert remarks on the significance of the Vice Adm. James Bond Stockdale Leadership Award in the Hall of Heroes at the Pentagon before presenting the 2012 winners with their awards.

This year’s recipients are: Cmdr.

Brian Sittlow, for his leadership as the Commanding Officer of the USS Boise (SSN 764), and Cmdr.

Chase Patrick, for his leadership while serving as the former Commanding Officer of the USS Chafee (DDG 90).

MC1 Peter D. Lawlor

Stockdale Leadership Award: CNO recognizes fleet’s best

By MC2 Alexandra Snyder Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON

The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) presented the Vice Adm. James B. Stockdale Leadership Award to two commanders at the Pentagon in the Hall of Heroes, Nov. 27.

CNO Adm. Jonathan Greenert presented the annual award, which is presented to two active duty commanding officers below the rank of captain, to Cmdr.

Chase Patrick, representing the Pacific Fleet, and Cmdr.

Brian Sittlow, representing the Atlantic Fleet.

Patrick and Sittlow were presented the award due to their leadership, personal initiative and exemplary performance and contribution to the overall success of the operational units they command.

“I talked to the [winners] today and they both said ‘It’s not about me, it’s about the people I serve with,’” said Greenert. “[But] what’s really special about this award is that it encompasses performance, as well as character ... it is peer nominated. Someone had to sit down and write a one-page synopsis about why these men deserve this award ...

What’s really special about this award is that it encompasses performance, as well as character ... it is peer nominated.”

- Adm. Jonathan Greenert

they inspire and epitomize what Stockdale was about.”

Greenert went on to describe the two successful commanding officers and credited their spouses who, like all military husbands and wives, bear much of the burden of military service.

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Patrick took command of USS Chafee (DDG 90), stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, in 2010. He has earned the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, five Navy and Marine Corps Commendation medals, and three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals.

“It is humbling to be chosen for this award,” said Patrick. “To be an effective leader you have to care about

each individual Sailor. If you put your all into being a good leader for them, I have found that they’ll put their all into giving you the best possible effort. It’s a team effort and a team award.”

Sittlow, reported aboard the USS Boise (SSN 764) in 2010. He has earned numerous awards for his service, but said he is most proud of the unit awards that the submarines he has served on have earned during deployed operations.

Both awardees were nominated by their peers and were recommended by their fleet commanders for consideration by a panel of senior officers. The Stockdale Leadership award is an annual award and is presented to two commissioned officers who are in command of a single ship, submarine, aviation squad-

ron, or operational warfare unit. It was established in honor of Vice Adm. James Bond Stockdale. His distinguished naval career symbolizes the highest standards of excellence in both personal example and leadership. Candidates must be nominated by peers who themselves must be eligible for the award.

Stockdale was a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and a pilot. In September of 1965, he ejected out of his A-4E Skyhawk over North Vietnam, and for eight years, was held prisoner and frequently tortured. In 1976, he received the Medal of Honor.

He served as president of the Naval War College in Newport, R.I., from October of 1977 until August of 1979.

Stockdale died in 2005 and is buried at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.

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F-35C Lightning II hits weapons testing milestone: CF-2 completes initial pit drop testing

By Victor Chen F-35 Integrated Test Force Public Affairs

PATUXENT RIVER, MD.

U.S. Navy photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin F-35 test pilots Navy Lt. Cmdr. Michael Burks and Peter Kosogorin fly CF-1 and CF-2 during a formation flying qualities test in the Atlantic Test Ranges. Testing formation flying qualities provides data on handling characteristics.

The F-35 integrated test force aboard Naval Air Station Patuxent River completed a weapons ejection milestone for the Lightning II carrier variant, Nov. 28.

CF-2, the second F-35C test aircraft, ejected a 2,000-pound inert GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and a 500pound GBU-12 Paveway II Laser Guided Bomb from an internal weapons bay into a foam-covered concrete pit, completing the series of first-ever ground weapons ejections for the F-35C. “The integrated government and industry team here, particularly the weapons team, have had a terrific 2012,” said Capt.

Erik Etz, director of test and evaluation for F-35 naval variants. “We have a lot more of the envelope to expand on the [F-35C], but we have a lot of momentum, and we’re well equipped for the in-flight weapons separation work ahead of us.”

In addition to the GBU-31 and GBU12, the CF-2 team successfully ejected the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Airto-Air Missile (AMRAAM). Overall, the team completed 11 weapon releases, split

between the left and right weapon bays, earlier than planned.

Weapons pit drop testing collects data to measure stresses on the airframe and any neighboring munitions, ensures proper function of weapon and suspension equipment, and validates the separation models for the munitions’ ejection characteristics, including trajectories and velocities.

Combined with airborne test missions carrying inert weapons to evaluate environmental and handling conditions, pit drop testing is precursor to airborne separations.

In 2012, the F-35 test team aboard NAS Patuxent River completed the first airborne weapons separation for any of the three variants, and at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. the F-35A test team completed successful testing with a GBU-31 JDAM and the AIM-120 AMRAAM. The F-35C carrier variant of the Lightning II is distinct from the F-35A and F-35B variants with its larger wing surfaces and reinforced landing gear – features used to withstand catapult launches and deck landing impacts associated with the demanding aircraft carrier environment.

The F-35C is undergoing flight test and evaluation at NAS Patuxent River prior to fleet delivery.

■ agreement DoD and Lockheed Martin have reached an agreement in principle to manufacture 32 F-35 Lightning II joint strike fighter jets, Pentagon Press Secretary George E. Little said on Nov. 30.

The jets are part of Low-Rate Initial Production batch 5 – the fifth production lot of the aircraft. Unit-cost data will be made available once the contracts are finalized and signed.

According to a news release from the F-35 program office, Lockheed Martin will produce 22 F-35A conventional take-off and landing variants for the Air Force, three F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing variants for the Marine Corps and seven F-35C carrier variants for the Navy.

NAVY SUSPENDS ENLISTED EARLY TRANSITION PROGRAM Press Release Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, TENN.

The Navy announced plans to suspend the Enlisted Early Transition Program (EETP) as leaders focus on maintaining current force levels, officials said Nov. 30.

“Today’s challenges have shifted from reducing the end strength to stabilizing the force and filling gaps at sea,” said Chief of Naval Personnel, Vice Adm. Scott Van Buskirk. “EETP will remain suspended until there is sufficient future need for this program.”

EETP is a force shaping program that allowed approved Sailors to voluntarily separate from the Navy prior to the end of their enlistment.

First implemented in 2008 to allow Sailors to request to separate up to 12 months early, the program was expanded in 2011 to allow eligible Sailors to separate up to 24 months early when the Navy experienced unprecedented retention and outstanding recruiting success. The voluntary early separation

of selected Sailors allowed further stabilization and alignment of the force. Since then, the Navy has made significant progress in balancing the force, according to Van Buskirk.

Under NAVADMIN 359/12, released Nov. 30, Navy Personnel Command (NPC) will no longer accept requests to separate under this program. Requests received by NPC on or after the release date of NAVADMIN 359/12 will be returned without action.

Requests submitted and received prior to the release of the NAVADMIN 359/12 will still be considered.

Commanding officers may no longer separate Sailors early under EETP. Commanding officers may still authorize voluntary early separation up to 90 days early in accordance with MILPIRSMAN 1910-102.

The Early Career Transition Program (ECTP) is unaffected and remains an option for Sailors seeking an early release from active duty with an intent to continue their careers in the Navy Reserve.

For more information, read NAVADMIN 359/12, or contact the NPC customer service center at (866) UASK-NPC (1-866-827-5672).

Navy file photo The Navy announced plans to suspend the Enlisted Early Transition Program (EETP) as leaders focus on maintaining current force levels. EETP is a force shaping program that allowed approved Sailors to voluntarily separate from the Navy prior to the end of their enlistment.

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No subject fees or additional charges. Only one Holiday Portrait Package of your favorite pose per family, group or session, Friday, November 23 through Sunday, December 30, 2012. Offer may not be combined with any other promotion. Offer not valid for business purposes, individual adult subjects, or unaccompanied minors.

Offer valid at participating locations and is subject to change at any time.

Coupon must be presented at the beginning of your session on or before Sunday, December 30, 2012.

Code: NP15FREE

Introducing NEW Holiday Portrait Gi Products 12x12 Portrait Calendar 5x5 Soft Cover Portrait Books

20 Pages, Professionally Bound Multiple Sizes and Designs Available

16x20 Portrait Canvas

Save More Than 70% on these Gift Products with many Money-Saving Collections plus FREE Shipping!

Visit portraits.com to see all of our NEW Specialty Portrait Products

Printed on High-quality, Heavy Card Stock Multiple Design Options

Printed on High-quality, Genuine Canvas Ready to Hang

All gift products are created and designed in studio and professionally packaged for convenient gift giving.

Limited Holiday Appointments Available. Hurry, Call Today!

Jefferson Marketplace | 12515 Jefferson Avenue, Suite 420 Newport News, VA 23602 | 757.833.0538 Landstown Commons | 3300 Princess Anne Road, Suite 721 Virginia Beach, VA 23456 | 757.368.9009

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Studio Hours: Open Every Day, 8 am – 7 pm Appointment Operators available every day from 9 am–7 pm

Appointments Highly Recommended. Walk-ins are welcome but may be limited.

No subject fees or additional charges. Only one Holiday Portrait Package of your favorite pose per family, group or session, Friday, November 23 through Sunday, December 30, 2012. Offer may not be combined with any other promotion. Offer not valid for business purposes, individual adult subjects, or unaccompanied minors.

Offer valid at participating locations and is subject to change at any time.

SA

8.5x8.5 Hard Cover Portrait Book

100%

B8 | THE FLAGSHIP | DEC 6, 2012 | FLAGSHIPNEWS.COM

DO MORE TOGETHER

THE COX BUNDLE

$25 $25 $25

PER MONTH FOR 12 MONTHS*

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Free Professional Install*

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Treme® on HBO GO.® HBO GO® is included free with an HBO® subscription

COME TOGETHER WITH THE COX BUNDLE You’ll be amazed at how Cox TV Economy, SM Cox High Speed Internet and Cox Digital Telephone® work together to deliver an enhanced experience with your technology.

HBO® and STARZ® FREE for 3 months!* On TV, and now Online.

Upgrade to Advanced TV Plus with Whole Home DVR and watch all your favorite recorded shows in any room.*

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Lynnhaven - 2720 North Mall Dr. Red Mill - 2173 Upton Dr.

*Offer expires 1/10/13 and is available to residential customers in Cox Virginia service areas. $25/month each is only available for new subscriptions or upgrades to two or more of Phone Premier, internet Essential, and/or Cox TV Economy with 1 digital receiver to complete the 3-service bundle. All 3 services are $25/mo. each during the promo period.

Free install limited to standard pro install on prewired outlets. Modem rental fee credit for first 12 months only. HBO®/STARZ® is free for 3 months, $15/mo. total in months 4–6; regular rates thereafter. Phone Premier includes Primary Phone line, features, voicemail, and unlimited long distance. Unlimited plan long distance minutes are limited to directdialed long distance calls within the United States and to Canada, U.S. Virgin Islands & Puerto Rico and may be used only for residential, noncommercial voice calls. Usage that is not consistent with such use may subject your account to review and/or suspension or termination of your service. Prices exclude additional installation/activation fees, additional equipment charges, inside wiring fees, additional jacks, taxes, surcharges and other fees. Not all services and features available everywhere. A credit check and/or deposit may be required. Offer may not be combined with other offers, discounts or promotions. Other restrictions may apply. ©2012 Cox Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.