NAF ATSUGI WELCOMES
NEW COMMAND MASTER CHIEFpg. 6
What’s Inside... Page 4
Public Affairs Officer
Eatin’ Time
Coming of Age in
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Japan
Greg Kuntz Editor -in-Chief
MC1(SW/AW) Barry Riley
Skywriter Staff MC2 Kegan Kay PS3 Vivian Blakley MC3 Ryan G. Greene Host Nation Relations Masako Takakura Sumie Maruyama Ikumi Tanaka Webmaster Noriko Yamazaki Contributors
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MWR Marketing Fleet and Family Support Center Commissary Public Affairs Navy Exchange Public Affairs NAF Atsugi Tenant Commands
Find Out Whats Going On at MWR
The NAFAtsugi Spolight
Click the images to watch the videos!
In the Skywriter, we publish a ‘Community Review’ page, and we need more of your photos to publish! This photo does not have to be Navy-related if you ‘snapped it,’ we want it! We also want to spotlight people who are doing good things for NAF Atsgui, if you have someone you’d like to recommend or to submit a photo, please e-mail: at-pao@fe.navy.mil
Or click the links below! The PAO team took an MWR trip to Kyoto where they enjoyed visiting shrines, temples and a castle. Check out what MWR has to offer on a trip to Kyoto!
Watch this weeks Captain’s Call with our special guest PS1 Jake Gulik. PS1 works in the Security Managers office helping to process over 1,500 Sailors clearances and conducting safty briefs for Naval Air Facility Atsugi.
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Navy Aircraft Carrier Moves
Underscore Pacific Rebalance Strategy
Story and photos by MC3 Brian h. Abel USS George Washington Public Affiairs
The U.S. Navy announced today that the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) will replace USS George Washington (CVN 73) in Japan and become part of the U.S. 7th Fleet forward-deployed naval forces (FDNF) in Yokosuka, Japan. As part of the rebalance strategy to increase the Navy’s presence in the Pacific Fleet, USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) will move from Norfolk, Va., to San Diego. Theodore Roosevelt will serve as a U.S. 3rd Fleet rotational carrier allowing Ronald Reagan to depart her current homeport in San Diego and proceed to Yokosuka. George Washington will depart Japan and proceed to Virginia in preparation for its mid-life refueling complex overhaul at Newport News
Shipbuilding, Huntington Ingalls Industries. Specific timelines will be announced separately, closer to the actual movement of the carriers. The United States values Japan’s contributions to the peace, security and stability of the Indo-Asia-Pacific and its long-term commitment and hospitality in hosting U.S. forces forward deployed there. These forces, along with their counterparts in the Japan Self-Defense Forces, make up the core capabilities needed by the alliance to meet our common strategic objectives. The security environment in the Indo-Asia-Pacific requires that the U.S. Navy station the most capable ships forward. This posture allows the most rapid response times possible for maritime and joint forces, and brings our most capable
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ships with the greatest amount of striking power and operational capability to bear in the timeliest manner. The ship rotation will not necessitate a change in the assigned air wing, nor in the composition of the air wing. Carrier Air Wing 5 will remain the forward-deployed air wing located at Naval Air Facility Atsugi. This ship rotation also does not necessitate any changes to base facilities in either San Diego or Yokosuka. In 2008, George Washington was the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier sent to Japan as part of the FDNF. Maintaining an FDNF capability supports the United States’ commitment to the defense of Japan and the security and stability of the vital Indo Asia-Pacific.
Feeding the Masses Behind the scenes at the Far East Cafe Photos by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
For Culinary Specialists aboard Naval Air Facility Atsugi’s Far East Cafe, work is never just from 9 - 5. For them, work can begin as early as 4 a.m. and continue unabated until 11 p.m. on some nights. For these chefs, feeding 2,000 of their fellow Sailors everyday is just another day in the Galley.
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Coming of Age Day:
Turning 20 in Japan
Story and photos by MC2 Kegan E. Kay NAF Atsugi Public Affairs Office
In America, a person’s 18th birthday is considered to be a huge milestone, signifying that a person has reached adulthood. In the Japanese culture, however, people are considered adults at age 20. In celebration of reaching this milestone, more than 22 thousand local 20 year-olds gathered at Yokohama Arena to participate in the city’s annual Seijin no Hi, or Coming of Age ceremony. According to Naval Air Facility Atsugi Host Nation Relations Specialist Sumie Maruyama, Japanese cities and prefectures host the events to welcome these citizens to adulthood. “Twenty is a good time to think of your life,” said Taisuke Khan, a local college student who attended the ceremony. “The Coming of Age day is a certain point in your life when you celebrate your growth since your
childhood milestones.” During the event, young women traditionally wear kimonos while men can wear a Hakama, or formal western clothes. The ceremony is typically short with each city or prefecture offering its own theme and special guests who give words of encouragement and wisdom to the new adults. “The young people who have gathered here today are responsible for learning from history, building the future and passing it on to the next generation,” said Yokohama City Mayor Fumiko Hayashi during the opening remarks. 2012 Olympics bronze medalist Ryo Tateishi, the guest speaker at Yokohama’s ceremony, talked to the crowd about his dedication and determination while training for the Olympics, and his thankfulness and appreciation for those who supported him. “It was not only my determination that won me the medal, but the support and efforts of
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the coaches, my fellow swimmers and my family,” said Tateishi. “Do not forget to thank the people in your life and especially your parents.” Though the event is geared toward looking to the future and adulthood, many attendees said they were glad to gather with childhood friends and reminisce on the past while celebrating the milestone. “I was looking forward to reuniting with all of my junior high school and other friends at the ceremony,” said Kumi Kamimura. At the close of the ceremony, the new adults were encouraged to reflect on their lives and futures, but to also keep in mind the traditions of hospitality, relationships and respect. “My actual birthday is meaningful to me,” said Khan “But the Coming of Age day is a lot more significant socially, I believe, and it is an opportunity for us to think deeply of the meaning of becoming an adult.”
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Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi recently welcomed Command Master Chief Michael D. Wilkins as its top enlisted leader, relieving previous Command Master Chief Carlton Duncan. “The reception has been fabulous,” said Wilkins. “From the most junior Sailor I’ve met, all the way through to the commanding officer, it has just been a warm family type welcome.” Wilkins is no stranger to the area though, having previously served as Command Master Chief of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115, which is attached to NAF Atsugi as part of Carrier Air Wing FIVE. “The main difference is I go from being somebody who draws from the services provided by the base to being in a position where I provide the services to others,” he said. During his tour here Wilkins
wants to ensure that NAF Atsugi maintains its high standards of excellence in customer service to the airwing, tenant commands and the base community. “I have a different perspective now. I have seen it from both sides of the spectrum,” said Wilkins. “I believe that is going to help me out because I was a ‘consumer’ and I knew what I needed. That perspective gives me an opportunity to access things and then to provide those services better than they already are.” During his 24 year career the Navy has seen many changes, from an all male crews to the integration of females on combat ships, two Iraq wars and the revolution of training as a participant. Wilkins said changes and marked points of naval history have broadened his experience and
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personal reflection. “There are just so many changes to describe,” said Wilkins. “A change I would like to see is an increase in respect for one another. I would like people to see a person and see them as a Sailor and a person and not as a target.” While these changes continue to slowly evolve and form life in the Navy, Wilkins is focusing on his new charge as command master chief and using his experience to enable and strengthen NAF Atsugi Sailors. “The one thing I want Sailors to know about me is that I care and am committed to helping them succeed and achieve their goals while they are here,” said Wilkins. “Do your job to the best of your ability, always give it everything you’ve got and you will be successful.”
Fleet and Family Support Center Monthly Calendar 2
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6 AOB: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Chapel) GPS/TAP Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216)
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AOB: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (129) Educational Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) Breastfeeding Support Class: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. (220)
20 U.S. Federal Holiday Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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AOB: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (129) CONSEP Mid-Career: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) SAPR POC/DCC Training: 8 a.m. - noon & 1 - 3 p.m. (Conf. Room)
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7 ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129/217) GPS/TAP Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Anger Managment: 1:30 - 3 p.m. (Conf. Room)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129/217)
14 ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129)
CONSEP Mid-Career: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220)
Washi Craft Class: 9:30 a.m. - noon (129) Dads 101: 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. (Conf. Room) Conv. Japanese Class: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (217)
NPS Play Group: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Sponsorship: 9 - 11 a.m. (216) PCS Workshop: 1 - 2:30 p.m. (216)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129)
CONSEP Mid-Career: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220)
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ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129/217)
GPS/TAP Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129)
CONSEP Mid-Career: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216)
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Resume Writing: 8 - 10 a.m. (216) Interview Skills: 10 a.m. - noon (216)
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ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129)
Home Buying : 1 - 2 p.m. (129) Washi Craft Class: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.(129) Ombudsman Assembly Meeting: 5 - 6 p.m. ( 216)
GPS/TAP Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220)
Ombudsman Basic Training: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (TBD) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Washi Craft Class: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (129)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129)
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GPS/TAP Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) Washi Craft Class: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.(129) Developing Your Spending Plan: 1 - 2 p.m. ( 129)
GPS/TAP Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129) Educational Workshop: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (216) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) Anger Managment: 1:30 - 3 p.m. (Conf. Room)
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129/217)
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24 Newborn Care Class: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (216) Ombudsman Basic Training: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (TBD)
Stress Management: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. (216)
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Volunteer Orientation: 1 - 3 p.m. (Conf. Room)
NAF Atsugi Father Daughter Ball NAF Atsugi’s Annual Father Daughter Ball is scheduled for Feb. 8, from 6 - 10 p.m. at the Atsugi Convention Center. For questions or to purchase tickets email atsugifatherdaughterball@ gmail.com.
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Naval Air Facility Atsugi: On Liberty
Story and photos by PS3 Vivian Blakley NAF Atsugi Public Affairs Office
For some single or geobachelor Sailors stationed at Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, it may seem that their liberty options can become stagnant after a while. They may stay in their rooms, play the same video games, watch the same movies and television shows over and over again. Luckily, Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) has a refreshing answer for those single Sailors plagued by a boring, humdrum routine in the form of their Liberty program, which provides alternative, healthy leisure and recreational opportunities at a discounted rate. For those who want to keep it simple and close to home, the Liberty Lounge offers free video game and console check-out privileges, a mini-theater, free Wi-Fi and two stations where Sailors can call home for free at
15 minute increments. “I like that the liberty program is readily available,” said Aviation Ordinanceman 3rd Class Edgar Fletes. “It’s not something that has to be provided, but it is. It’s good. I like it.” The lounge also offers weekly activities such as karaoke, Friday Night Game Night and free food. “The Liberty program boosts morale by providing a home away from home for the Sailors,” said Liberty Program Coordinator Senita Martin. “We want to provide a place for them where they can relax, socialize, and have the opportunity to explore Japan with someone who knows the language and community, and just enjoy their tour overseas.” For those looking for adventure and discovery outside the gates, the program offers plenty of tours, including over night ski trips, an over night trip to the New Sanno in Tokyo and more.
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“We hope they’ll utilize the Liberty program,” said Martin. “We really just want to give them the opportunity to fit in as soon as they arrive and have a good time.” For more information, stop by the Liberty lounge or visit the NAF Atsugi MWR Liberty website here.
NAF Atsugi
Morale, Welfare, & Recreation
Ranger & Halsey Hours: Sunday & Saturday: 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Liberty Center Hours: Sunday & Thursday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - Midnight
Superbowl Bash
Join us at the ACC on Mon, Feb 3 to enjoy the big game! Everyone is welcome and you can watch for free, but for $5 you’ll be invited to enjoy breakfast, lunch and entry into the drawings and contests. We’ll open the doors at 6:30 a.m. and kick off is at 8:15!
New Fitness Classes Have a child 10 months to 3 years in age? Sign up for swim lessons at the Ranger Indoor Pool and enjoy working in the water to teach your child basic water and motor skills. Lessons will be held on Tue & Thu in February at 10 a.m. Only one child per parent, sign up before Jan 31, fee is $35.
Parent Child Swim Lessons
We have two new fitness classes being offered at Ranger Gym. Join us every Mon & Wed at noon for our TRX class to build strength, balance flexibility and core stability via suspension training with bodyweight exercises. On Tuesdays come grab a mat at 9:30 a.m. for Beginner Yoga and get in a good workout while improving your overall fitness, reduce stress, and even help with chronic conditions like insomnia.
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NAF Atsugi Commmissary Store Hours: Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Store Hours: Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Closed Mondays
Commissary Pricing Validates Savings Story by Kevin L. Robinson DeCA Public Affairs Specialist
Commissary savings are now being measured against a wider range of retailers that sell groceries, and the comparison confirms the value of the benefit, according to the Defense Commissary Agency’s 2013 price comparison study. For the first time, the expanded comparison survey allowed DeCA to look beyond traditional grocery stores to include price comparisons with club stores, drug stores, dollar stores and the discount department stores. This comparison validates the current 30.5 percent savings military members and their families enjoy when they shop their commissary, said DeCA Director and CEO Joseph H. Jeu. “It’s not enough for us to say that the commissary is worth the trip and a significant part of the military’s total compensation package,” Jeu said. “This study proves our overall savings hold up across a much wider retail landscape.” Commissary savings percentages are calculated based on an annual market basket study. Procedures differ somewhat depending on geographic location. In the continental United States, DeCA employs a comparison study, over a 26-week period
that ended June 22, which uses Nielsen’s database of commissary and industry front end sales volume on 37,000 grocery items with a Universal Product Code. Pricing comparisons for meat and produce department items in the continental United States are accomplished through in-store audits at 30 randomly selected commissaries to compare them with commercial retail stores within commuting distance. Outside the continental United States (Alaska, Hawaii, the Far East, Europe, Guam and Puerto Rico), DeCA conducts additional in-store audits, using a broad sample of grocery, meat and produce items. Savings percentages compare commissary prices, which include DeCA’s 5 percent surcharge, to commercial prices with any applicable sales taxes included. Last year, with a price survey that focused on traditional grocery retailers, commissary savings were at 31.2 percent. This year’s 30.5 percent savings figure comes from DeCA’s ability now to access Nielsen’s “all outlets combined” database, which allows the agency to compare its prices to more retailers – discount department stores, club stores, -11-
drug stores and dollar stores – that also sell grocery items. “In a sense, now we are tougher on ourselves when it comes to measuring commissary patron savings,” Jeu said. “That’s a good thing, because it raises credibility.” DeCA significantly increased confidence in its saving survey in the 1990s, when the commissary began to compare pricing on thousands of items, not just a literal market basket of a dozen or twodozen items. The scope of retailers in the comparison was limited to traditional supermarkets. Later DeCA made an approximated pricing adjustment in the savings calculation, because more types of retailers expanded into the grocery business, but their full pricing data wasn’t always available. With “all outlets” retail data available today, DeCA increased the savings survey’s accuracy by using actual pricing of the grocery newcomers. “Our patrons have been quite passionate about being able to access their commissary benefit,” Jeu said. “When word got out on Sept. 30 that we were closing because of the government shutdown, our customers flocked to their stores Oct. 1, making it our largest sales day – $30.6 million, more than double our normal daily sales volume – of the 21st century.