What’s Inside...
Public Affairs Officer
Greg Kuntz Assistant Public Affairs Officer
Enlisted to Commissioning See Page 4
NAF Atsugi’s Youth of the Year See Page 6
Supply Warriors Feed the Masses See Page 8
Let's Learn Sentences to know for Spring:
Which is the best sushi restaurant? Dono sushiya gah ichi-ban oishii desu kah? Which is the best sushi restaurant? Dono sushiya gah ichi-ban oishii desu kah?
Let’s go to a picnic. Pikunikku ni ikimasho. What should we bring? Nani o motte ikimasho ka? I want a ham and cheese sandwich. Hamu to chi-zu no sandoicchi ga ii desu. 2
Courtney Pollock Editor -in-Chief MC1(SW/AW) Barry Riley
Skywriter Staff MC2 Kegan Kay MC3 Ryan G. Greene Host Nation Relations Masako Takakura Sumie Maruyama Ikumi Tanaka Webmaster Noriko Yamazaki Contributors
MWR Marketing Fleet and Family Support Center Commissary Public Affairs Navy Exchange Public Affairs NAF Atsugi Tenant Commands
We want to spotlight people who are doing good things for NAF Atsugi, if you have someone you’d like to recommend or to submit a photo, please e-mail: at-pao@fe.navy.mil
ON THE COVER: Springtime in Japan comes with an abundance of festivals and outdoor activities. Between the cherry blossoms, spring festivals and hundreds of others, NAF Atsugi PAO has compiled a list of the best festivals to see this spring in Kanagawa. Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay
Greenert: Forward Presence is Navy, Marine Corps Mandate Story by Claudette Roulo American Forces Press Service
The Navy-Marine Corps team is united in fulfilling the mandate to be where it matters, when it matters, Navy Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert, the chief of naval operations, said March 25. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James F. Amos is “a great shipmate,” the admiral added during a hearing of the House Appropriations Committee’s defense subcommittee. Interaction between the two services has never been better, Greenert said, noting that he is committed to continuing that momentum. “Forward presence is our mandate,” the admiral said. By operating from forward locations, the Navy and Marine Corps provide President Barack Obama with options to deal promptly with global contingencies, he explained. “As we conclude over a decade of wars and bring our ground forces home from extended stability operations, your naval forces will remain on watch,” Greenert said. The Navy’s efforts are focused in the Asia-Pacific region and the Arabian Gulf, he said, but the service continues to provide presence and response as needed in other theaters. “Now, with this forward presence, over the last year, we were able to influence and shape decisions of leaders in the Arabian Gulf, in Northeast Asia and the Levant,” the admiral said. To protect American interests and encourage regional leaders to make the right choices, the Navy patrolled off the shores of Libya, Egypt and
Photo by MCC Peter Lawlor
Sudan, he continued. And, he said, naval forces relieved suffering and provided assistance and recovery in the Philippines in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan. The Navy’s forward presence dissuades aggression against the nation’s allies in the East and the South China Seas, the admiral noted, and helps to deter piracy in the Horn of Africa. “And we continue to support operations in Afghanistan while taking the fight to insurgents, terrorists and their supporting networks across the Middle East and Africa with our expeditionary and our special operations forces,” he said. The 2014 budget will enable the Navy to maintain an “acceptable” forward presence, Greenert said. There are sufficient funds to restore fleet training, maintenance and operations and recover a substantial part of the 2013 backlog, he noted. Recognizing that budgetary constraints will continue through fiscal year 2015, the admiral said he set six priorities: sea-based strategic deterrence; forward presence; the 3
capability and capacity to win decisively; readiness; asymmetric capabilities and maintaining technological edge; and sustaining a relevant industrial base. “Using these priorities, we built a balanced portfolio of capabilities within the fiscal guidance provided,” he told the committee. The Navy will continue to combine rotational forces and forward-based and forward stationed forces to maximize its presence in the AsiaPacific region and the Middle East, the admiral said. The force still faces shortfalls in shore support, Greenert noted, and a facilities maintenance backlog that “will erode the ability of our bases to support the fleet.” “We have slowed modernization in areas that are central to remain ahead of or keep pace with technologically advanced adversaries,” he said. “Consequently, we face higher risk if confronted with a hightech adversary, or if we attempt to conduct more than one multiphase major contingency simultaneously.” Interested in reading more? Check out the full story here.
Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
The Journey from Enlisted to Officer Story by MC2 Kegan E. Kay NAF Atsugi Public Affairs Office
When thinking about a career as an enlisted military member several key points probably come to mind; evaluations, advancement, education and maybe even the idea of becoming an officer. Seaman to Admiral-21 (STA21) and Officer Candidate School (OCS) are just two of the eight commissioning programs listed
on the Navy Personnel Command website. “Everyone knows about STA-21. That’s a big one,” said Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi Command Career Counselor Chief Navy Counselor Troy Beard. “Don’t just look at the big ones. Look at what else you could do as far as becoming officer. There are quite a few options.” Other programs include U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) and Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS), Medical Enlisted Commissioning Program (MECP), Medical Service Corps In-service Procurement Program (MSC/IPP), Uniformed Services University, Limited Duty Officer and Chief Warrant Officer (LDO/CWO), and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. OPNAVINST 1420.1B provides details regarding each program and the Navy Personnel Command website offers other websites and instructions regarding the individual programs. 4
According to OPNAVINST 1420.1B, OCS is an initial commissioning program for individuals possessing at least a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution. MECP, a Nurse Corps (NC), provides a pathway for active duty enlisted personnel of all ratings who possess some college credit to earn a baccalaureate degree in nursing and ultimately a commission in the NC. MSC/IPP provides candidates with a qualifying degree or those who have some college credit applicable towards an advanced degree, the opportunity to complete their degree and receive direct appointments to the MSC. The LDO and CWO programs provide commissioning opportunities to qualified Chief Petty Officers (CPOs) (E7 through E9), E6 personnel who are eligible and CWOs (applying for lieutenant junior grade). STA-21 is an opportunity for
highly motivated active duty enlisted personnel to complete requirements for a baccalaureate degree and earn a commission as an unrestricted line, NC, supply corps, civil engineer corps or special duty officer. Intensive instruction and preparation for the academic, military and physical training of the USNA is provided by the NAPS program. USNA offers an opportunity for qualified young men and women to embark on careers as officers in the Navy or Marine Corps. “When a Sailor comes into our office and they are inquiring about commissioning programs one of the first things we ask them as career counselors is, ‘have you read the instruction?’” said Beard. “What we normally recommend before they even talk to us, is reading OPNAVINST 1420.1B. Their level of knowledge really tells us how much interest they have in the programs.” The next step is reading the NAVADMIN for the program you want to apply for and keeping track of the deadline for your application package. “Really read through the instruction,” said Logistics Specialist 1st Class Samuel
Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
Theodoris, who was recently selected for the Limited Duty Officer program. “Don’t just scan it, read it and comprehend what the instruction is asking for.” Theodoris recommends having several people look over your application package, including people who have applied for the program, community members of the area you are going into and your chain of command. “The biggest thing is attention to detail,” said Beard. “Read the instruction and read the
Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
5
NAVADMIN that comes out for that specific program. The NAVADMIN will get down to the nitty gritty of what to do.” Beard also suggests taking the time to really think out the personal statement portion of the package. Focus on what attributes and motivation that you have for becoming an officer and more importantly what you can offer to the Navy. If Sailors have issues with understanding the instructions and admins or need some extra feedback regarding a package, visiting the command career counselor or speaking with others who have applied for the program are great sources. “Go to the career counselor and ask for help,” said Theodoris. “There is nothing wrong with asking for help.” For more information and links regarding commissioning programs please visit here.
NAF Atsugi celebrates Youth of the Year Story by Brandon Bergeron NAF Atsugi MWR Marketing
On March 20, 2014 Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi sent our representative, Jordan McLaurin, who goes by Corynn, to Sasebo to compete in the annual Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA) Youth of the Year competition. Having already done an exceptional job at securing the title as Atsugi's Youth of the Year for 2013, Corynn earned the chance to face off against four other youth for the title of Military Asia Region Youth of the Year. Upon arrival Corynn was treated to a party in the Nominee's honor at Sasebo's Teen Center. Nominees from Sasebo, Yokota, Zama, and Iwakuni, plus the Boys and Girls Club President all got a chance to relax, mingle, and have fun before the big competition in the morning. The kids quickly became friends as they bonded over food, games, and companionship. The tasks for the day were breakfast
followed by speeches prepared by each candidate. Corynn's speech came naturally, telling the crowd about the struggles of military life, the hardships of coming to Japan immediately after the Fukushima disaster, and how her local Teen Center helped her stay busy, get involved, and make friends despite the obstacles she faced. Lunch time brought all of the kids back out into the open air to re-unite with their advisors and families. Corynn's mother looked on proudly as her daughter emerged from the judging hall confident in her performance. The tension of the judging behind them, the youth all had a chance to reconvene and gossip while lunch was served. Sasebo's ballroom filled with base luminaries and officials from CNIC and BGCA. All in attendance took the time to let each youth know how proud they were of their accomplishments. The adults were moved by the stories of accomplishment and struggle.
Speeches were given throughout lunch praising the efforts and importance of the Youth of the Year. After praising all of the youth, the Military Youth of the Year Asia Region was announced. The winner for the event was Camp Zama's Sophia Walker. The kids congratulated one another on their hard work. Corynn was approached by all of the judges one by one. Each congratulated her on her entry, and took the time to express how impressed with her they were. Her mother and I looked on with pride as community leaders, base commanders, and corporate presidents all sought out Corynn to praise her. Congratulations Corynn. You have made the NAF Atsugi community, your family, and your Teen Center proud. We look forward to seeing you compete again next year, wherever your travels take you.
Photo by MC2 Kegan E. Kay
6
7
Naval Air Facilitiy Atsugi’s Adopt a Sailor Barbeque Hosted by the NAF Atsugi Supply Warriors Association
“Adopt a Sailor” Barebque is a monthly event hosted by the NAF Atsugi Supply Warriors Association to provide an outdoor barbeque for all single, and geobachlor Sailors. The Supply Warriors also provide footballs and other sports equipment for playing pickup games during the event. Be sure to be on the lookout for the Supply Warriors next cook out.
8
Mon., April 14:
AOB: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (129) Premarital Seminar: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (Chapel)
Tues., April 15: Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129) 10 Steps to Federal Employment: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. (216) NPS Stroller Walk: 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. (Reid Field)
Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Robert Rey, of Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi’s Far East Cafe’, puts red frosting on a carrier-shaped cake during a Chief Petty Officers’ birthday celebration at the galley. This year marks the 121st year chiefs Wed., April 16: have been charged with leading sailors since the creation of the rank in 1893.
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220)
Thurs., April 17:
ICR: 8:30 - 9 a.m. (129) Washi Craft: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (129)
Fri., April 18:
Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
Master-at-Arms 1st Class Jerry Howie, of Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi, picks up trash as part of the installations Chief Petty Officer (CPO) 365 clean-up effort.
ICR: 8:30 a.m. - Noon (129) NPS Stroller Walk: 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. (Reid Field) Teen AOB/ICR: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Conf. Room) Ombudsman Basic Training: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Navy College)
Mon., April 21:
AOB: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. (129) SAPR Victim Advocate Training: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (AIMD Conf. Room)
Tues., April 22:
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129) SAPR Victim Advocate Training: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (AIMD Conf. Room) NPS Stroller Walk: 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. (Reid Field) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220)
Wed., April 22: Photo by MC3 Ryan G. Greene
Naval Air Facility (NAF) Atsugi Host Nation Relations Office (HNRO) Community Relations Specialist Sumie Maruyama, right, stands beside a statue of Gen. Douglas MacArthur during the NAF Atsugi Twitter Tour. 9
ICR: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. (129) NPS Playgroup: 9:30 - 11 a.m. (220) SAPR Victim Advocate Training: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (AIMD Conf. Room)
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
Duathalon Max & Rand’ Shine Athletics Volunteers Atsugi Bowling Lanes Easter Eggstravaganza
Join us for a 2.5 Run, 17K cycle & 5K Run Sat., April 26 at Cinema 77. Register by Mon., April 21 at Halsey or Ranger Gym (Entries fees apply – stop by gyms for more details). Celebrate Month of the Military Child, where fun never stops! Bring the family out to enjoy “magical” fun! Check us out on Facebook at NAF Atsugi MWR for details! MWR Recreation Division is looking for motivated and outgoing individuals to volunteer in upcoming community events. Email kris.atsuginaf@gmail.com for more info! E4 and junior, check out Atsugi Lanes April 18 and 25 Midnight 2 a.m. Free Cosmic Bowling every Friday Free bowling, shoes & sodas at each event!‘Like’ NAF Atsugi Liberty on Facebook!
Sat, Apr 19 • 10 am – 12 pm (Bring your own Easter Basket) FREE @ Ranger Park “Block Party” (Rain Location Ranger Gym) Ages: Walker – 12 years of age can enjoy an Easter Hunt at various times! There will be “Golden Eggs” to be found and a *Special* Visit from the Easter Bunny! Enjoy FREE snacks and refreshments while they last & Bounce House Fun! NAF Atsugi “One and Your Done” new slogan Contest Winner! We’d like to congratulate Ms. Carmelo Flores on being selected with her submission of “Who’s taking you home tonight?” slogan. “Will it be a taxi-paramedic or MA?” Always remember to Have a Plan - and ask yourself, “Who’s Taking You Home Tonight?”
Who’ taking you home tonight?
10
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
Commissaries Showcase Fruits, Veggies for ‘Little Heroes’ in April
Story by Sallie Cauthers DeCA Public Affairs
To honor military children, commissaries have fun ways for parents and their “little heroes” to learn about the nutritious value of fruits and vegetables. During April, the Month of the Military Child, commissary produce departments are inviting installation child development centers to take tours highlighting the health benefits of fruits and vegetables. Commissary store managers can also conduct this presentation at the child development center. “This is our fourth year doing these tours, and I am amazed at the incredible passion our commissary personnel have for these ‘little heroes,’ ” said Bridget Bennett, DeCA’s produce category manager. “Our goal in April is that every store will offer a store
tour or presentation at the child development center. We may even have local installation dieticians available to enhance the education about the benefits of consuming fresh fruits and vegetables.” The tours incorporate the “5-21-0” message: Eat five fruits and vegetables every day, limit TV/ video/computer time to two hours or less each day, get one hour of physical activity daily and zero drinks with sugar. “Consuming a diet high in fruits and vegetables, and getting plenty of physical activity can go a long way toward helping prevent childhood obesity,” Bennett said. “There’s a Fruit & Veggie Eater Meter that’s a great tool to track fruit and vegetable consumption for a full week.” Tour participants may sample some unique fruits and vegetables, and receive new healthful recipes. For more information, go here. 11
Commissary customers can check their local commissary to find out more about fresh produce samples, coupons, giveaways and goodie bags for children participating in the fruits and veggies events. Visit here to learn more about the Defense Commissary Agency: check out the latest news, find a store near you, see what’s on sale, create a shopping list, learn of food and product recalls, scan employment opportunities, read frequently asked questions, submit a customer comment form online through DeCA’s Your Action Line and more. Stay connected with the latest news about your most valued benefit, Hot Links to additional savings, shopping sprees, contests, commissary promotions, events and more, go here and subscribe to the Commissary Connection newsletter..