The Signature | September 6, 2019

Vol. 36 No. 18

September 6, 2019

SIGONELLA COMMITS TO SUICIDE PREVENTION Story on pages 6-7

CHIEF-SELECTS TRAIN ABOARD USS CONSTITUTION Story on pages 8-9

AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE CO ABOUT TRAFFIC SAFETY

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Direct Line

Capt. Kevin Pickard, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer

It’s extremely hard to believe that summer is now over and the new school year is upon us. My family and I have now been on board for five months….time really does fly.

We can finally say that we have settled in, and are very happy to call Sigonella our new home.

As many of you know, I was stationed at Sigonella nearly 20 years ago with the Black Stallions of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron FOUR. Back then, especially after 9/11, this base earned its nickname as the “Hub of the Med.” I can honestly say that it feels like Sigonella hasn’t missed a beat. Our tempo of operations continues to increase as our importance to U.S. strategic interests in the region grows. In fact, we are more dynamic than ever before and are now recognized as a critical, joint operational platform. In addition to U.S. Navy forces, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Army operational units now call Sigonella home and conduct critical operations from our base to locations throughout Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. As it has throughout its history, NAS Sigonella continues to provide world-class support to all of our exceptional operational tenant commands and especially to the deployed rotational forces that utilize our installation. It has been truly eye-watering to see how well this base and our tenants support these missions. Thank you for the work you do every day.

It has also been a pleasure getting to know Sicily again. We’ve been

fortunate to get out and about quite a bit, but something does have me very worried. As anyone who has attended command INDOC can tell you, traffic safety is one of my top concerns. We talk about traffic safety a lot around here, but it seems the message is not getting through. My experience of the last few months has made me extremely concerned that we are going to lose a service member or family member to a needless traffic accident.

I don’t need to tell anyone here that driving in Sicily is different and inherently more dangerous than driving back in the States.

The driving experience here can be both exhilarating and frightening. But the challenging road conditions, poor condition of some of the “island beaters” that are handed down amongst service members, and the general risk associated with our younger service member population only heighten the hazards.

Since the beginning of April, we have had too many traffic accidents on and off base. Two weekends ago, we had a major traffic accident on the roads between Marinai and NAS I involving a car with a service member and his family and a service member-driven motorcycle. The motorcycle drifted into head-on traffic on a curve and the motorcycle rider hit the front windshield with his head before being flipped over the car. The head-on collision was extremely violent and was almost certainly caused by excessive speed and distraction…and it happened

on a road we drive almost every day. Frankly, it was a miracle that no one was killed. We are extremely fortunate that we are not preparing for a funeral this week.

I see excessive speeding, reckless passing, talking and texting, and generally unsafe driving practices every day as I drive within the triangle. I know I am not alone in this observation. Not following posted speed limits or reckless driving is reason for me to revoke your driving privileges. Your safety is my number one concern here on Sig, but I need your help.

I will not hesitate to suspend or revoke those privileges if you cannot abide by the rules, so please slow down and pay attention. No amount of speeding is worth risking your life or the lives of others.

Ok, let’s look after each other and keep it safe out there. Thanks for your time, and I look forward to seeing you around Sig!

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Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding Barracks Toilet:

My toilet has been broken for almost two and a half weeks now and I have not gotten any information on when it will be fixed. I would truly appreciate any information on the timeline for it getting fixed. It would be helpful to me and my roommate to be able to use our own toilet instead of going down to the first deck every time.

Response:

Thank you for bringing your issue to light. I would absolutely be as frustrated as you are with the lack of basic working bathroom facilities.

These quality of life problems should not be taken lightly, as the ability to feel comfortable in your own residence affects your ability to come to work each day and perform at 100%.

Although this type of barracks issue is currently classified as being “high priority, routine,” I personally consider barracks plumbing issues like yours to be handled as an emergency issue. This is a quality of life issue and I am not happy that it took as long as it did to be resolved.

As such, I have directed the Public Works departments to ensure that barracks room toilets are fixed in a timely manner in the future, just as if I lived in the barracks myself.

As always, the quickest way to resolution of a maintenance issue is by working with your RA to submit a trouble ticket, and then through your chain of command. If you have exhausted all possible avenues, even I will come out personally to help fix it. Bottom line: service members should have access to proper bathroom facilities and I will do everything I can

to make sure your living conditions meet minimum standards.

Comment Regarding Recycling Bins:

To increase recycling usage, it would be convenient to have plastic, paper/cardboard, and aluminum/ glass recycling dumpsters placed along with the six trash dumpsters located in the parking lot across the street from Building 476 (PSD) and on the left Building 436 next to Chock Full of Nuts / AMC Terminal onboard NAS II. It seems that there are a limited number of easily accessible recycling dumpsters on NAS II.

Response:

Thank you for providing feedback on the trash and recycling program.

We always want to make sure that the supplied receptacles are sufficient and placed in effective locations.

Your input can help inform our refuse contracts going forward.

For a seemingly ordinary issue, this might seem like a burdensome process. Currently, the number of trash and recycling bins and their locations are specified in the vendor contract for base operating support services. However, you can submit a request for consideration to add recycling bins with your building manager. If funding is available and your request is approved, the contract can be modified to include an additional recycling bin.

Comment Regarding NAS I Pool: We just moved here a month ago, and while we are very impressed with the pool facilities (probably one of the best pools we’ve ever been to in the military), the cleanliness could "ICE" cont’d on Page 13

THE SIGNATURE

U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Commanding Officer Capt. Kevin Pickard Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL

Public Affairs Officer Lt. Karl Schonberg karl.schonberg@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers

MC2 Joshua Coté joshua.m.cote@eu.navy.mil

MR2 Kyle Drummond kyle.m.drummond@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US

Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001

This newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

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The Signature

Name: SrA Christopher Sherman Department: USAF 7th Reconnaissance Squadron Naval Air Station Sigonella is home to a number of important commands that support the regional peacekeeping mission. One of them is the U.S. Air Force’s 7th Reconnaissance Squadron.

The squadron’s 100-plus-year history includes an anti-submarine mission in the American theater during World War II. Today, it operates the RQ-4 platform, a remotely piloted reconnaissance aircraft known as the “Global Hawk.” It takes Airmen like Senior Airman Christopher Sherman to ensure that the squadron’s mission is operating smoothly.

The 7th RS is composed of a mix of active duty and civilian personnel. Its departments include maintenance, operations, material management, cyber operations, security forces, and support personnel. Like Navy “rates,” the Air Force also has “specialty codes” that identify the area of expertise for enlisted personnel. For Sherman, he is a cyber transport systems specialist. That means he’s in charge of making sure the underlying infrastructure of the Air

Force’s global communications network is operating properly. Here at Sigonella, his job has expanded to include any task that supports communications at the squadron. From maintaining the SIPRnet to making sure email is working properly, Sherman is a go-to specialist for IT needs.

Sherman’s career is still young— Sigonella is only his second tour after completing “A” school—but he’s already preparing for the next step in his career.

Recently, Sherman was selected to promote to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E5). In preparations for becoming an NCO, he recently completed Airmen Leadership School to develop skills he will need when he becomes a first-line supervisor. He also completed the Marine Corporal Course, which prepares Marines to become NCOs, as well. Both courses were highly rewarding experiences for him.

“Both helped me accomplish what I feel was their underlying goal, which is taking care of people. That’s what an NCO does.

It’s no longer about yourself, you now have an added responsibility of taking care

of someone else,” said Sherman.

Sherman is keeping all doors open for his career open at this point. His tour at the 7th RS ends in the fall of 2021, not long before his contract is up. He is considering reenlisting this fall and then taking the Air Force’s officer qualification test next year in the hopes of transitioning into the officer community.

Sherman arrived at the Air Force with a good amount of civilian credentials under his belt. He holds a bachelor’s degree in broadcast integrated media and has experience as a broadcast videographer and editor. He was looking for a change, which is what led him to enlisting. Next week, he’s beginning courses toward earning his master’s degree in IT/ telecommunications management.

Sherman had the fortunate experience of being stationed at Aviano Air Base at his previous tour, so he has already extensively explored Europe. But he said that he is enjoying the different travel experiences here in Sicily, particularly exploring the island’s beach scene.

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Joint Logistics Board visits Navy’s strategic ‘Hub of the Med’

By Joe Yanik

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Italy -- Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella, Command Task Force-67 and Naval Air Station Sigonella co-hosted Rear Adm. Peter G. Stamatopoulos, Director of Logistics, U.S. European Command , and 18 other members of the EUCOM Joint Logistics Board Aug. 15-16 2019, here, for an in-depth look at how the base executes its mission as the Navy’s strategic hub of the Mediterranean and how NAVSUP enables combat capabilities for Fleet, Ashore and Expeditionary forces operating across Europe.

Among the JLB members were representatives of the EUCOM Logistics Directorate (ECJ4), U.S. Naval Forces Europe, U.S. Air Force Europe, U.S. Marines Forces Europe, U.S. Army Europe and the 598th Transportation Brigade from Surface Deployment and Distribution Command, Special Operations Command Europe and Defense Logistics Agency Europe-Africa.

“By directly engaging the Navy team in Sigonella - the ‘Hub of the Med’, logistics experts across the Joint Logistics Enterprise saw firsthand the extraordinarily critical role Sigonella plays in enabling global operations,” Stamatopoulos said. “Sigonella’s team of patriots directly provides logistics expertise to the Joint Warfighter, Allies, and partners that are critical to our warfighting readiness in Europe.”

From a NAVSUP perspective, Capt.

Alsandro Turner, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Commanding Officer, said the JLB’s visit allowed for meaningful, face-to-face dialogue about topics of interest in the European area of operations.

Senior members of the U.S. European Command Joint Logistics Board listen as Chief Petty Officer Bernard Willis (second from left), Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Sigonella Fuels Division, explains the capabilities of NAVSUP’s Pantograph underground hydrant system during a simulated refueling demonstration Aug. 15, 2019 at Naval Station Sigonella, Italy. (U.S. Navy photo by Joe Yanik)

“As important as it was for senior members of EUCOM’s joint community to see the how our people support the Navy and Joint Warfighter here at NASSIG, the JLB visit offered us an important opportunity to address their questions that are specific to the European AOR, discuss present and emerging challenges that hinder mission success, and solutions to overcome them,” Turner said.

On-site mission briefings delivered to the JLB took place at the Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Sigonella warehouse, Navy Munitions Command Detachment Sigonella facility, an RQ-4 Global Hawk drone hangar, the San Cusumano fuel depot and the Augusta Bay NATO Pier. The group also toured a P-8A Poseidon aircraft and observed a refueling simulation of NAVSUP’s pantograph fuels system.

The expertise NAVSUP FLC Sigonella delivers to the Warfighters at

NASSIG include products and services in customs, fuels, hazardous materials and household goods management.

“By hosting the JLB leaders here in-person, they were able to directly observe how NAVSUP is a force multiplier by delivering our products and services in way that accomplishes mission success for the combatant commanders’ strategic objectives at the Naval Forces Europe-Africa and European Command levels,” NAVSUP FLC Sigonella Site Director and Action Officer LCDR Ryan Stickel said.

A tenant command of NAS Sigonella, NAVSUP FLC Sigonella is one of NAVSUP’s eight globally positioned logistics centers that provides for the full range of the Fleet’s military operations. NAVSUP FLC Sigonella delivers solutions for logistics, business and support services to the Navy, Military Sealift Command, Joint and Allied Forces throughout Navy Region Europe-Africa-Central.

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Personally Committin

HOW EVERYONE CAN

I danni causati dal terremoto sono la minaccia principale proveniente dal sistema Etna. (Foto Giornale Di Sicilia)

U.S. Navy Photo by Machinery Repairman 2nd Class Kyle Drummond

Il vulcanologo Dott. Boris Behncke dell’INGV Catania

By Lt. Cmdr. Steven Hervey the reason why we set aside time to nella sala operativa dove viene monitorata in tempo reale Chaplain, NAS Sigonella highlight suicide prevention is what l’attivita dell’Etna. (Foto Marina USA, Janine Scianna)

Many of you may know that September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, but what you may not know is that this year marks the 45th year that time has been set aside to focus on suicide prevention.

Suicide Prevention Month traces its roots back to 1974, when the American Association of Suicidology first recognized Suicide Prevention Week. In 2003, September 10th was designated as World Suicide Prevention Day, and in 2012, the Department of Defense began Suicide Prevention Month.

While the history is interesting, (Foto Mike Ickx)

truly matters. The true significance is recognizing the important roles that each of us play in the prevention of suicide. We all have the opportunity to reduce the risk for suicide and suiciderelated behavior in our own lives and in the lives of others! And we also have an obligation to recognize the risk factors and encourage open dialogue in our community to make that happen.

First, we need to take care of ourselves. Just like the safety message you hear before every flight, make sure your “oxygen mask” is on before taking care of others. Most of the time, suicide and suicide-related behavior is

U.S. Navy Photo by Machine

linked to stress caused by secondary issues such as work, finances, or relationships. We can decrease the stress and take care of ourselves by pursuing interests, relationships, and activities which decrease our stress and promote our psychological health. If you need help centering your mental health, there are numerous resources to take advantage of right here at Sigonella. Chaplains, Fleet and Family Support Center counselors, mental healthcare providers, and the CREDO program all stand ready to support you. If you ever feel overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to, contact one of these resources now.

Secondly, we need to take care

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ng to Suicide Prevention

N MAKE A DIFFERENCE

ery Repairman 2nd Class Kyle Drummond

of each other. When it comes to suicide prevention, there are NO BYSTANDERS. You must get involved and be there for others. In many suicides, people knew a person needed help but did not take action.

Trust your instincts and intervene early on. Start the conversation and ask, “Are you ok?” Let them know you are concerned about them and discuss any behaviors you have noticed.

Make sure you Ask, Care, and Treat (Ask, Care Escort for our Army and Air Force counterparts or Recognize, Ask Care Escort for the Marines) as you have been trained so they can receive help if necessary. Always remember: if they are not considering

U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josh Coté

suicide, you’ve lost nothing, but if they are, your engagement could be the deciding influence in their life.

We can also take care of others by crushing the stigma regarding suicide and treatment for mental health. There are many misconceptions regarding getting help for stress related issues.

One is that seeking help is a sign of weakness. This couldn’t be farther from the truth—seeking help when needed is actually a sign of strength. Even the strongest people need help at times and asking for help leads to future success.

A second myth is that seeking help will jeopardize a security clearance. In the overwhelming majority of cases those who do seek help return to full duty,

with security clearances intact. These stigmas often keep people from getting the help they need and we must remove these roadblocks so people can receive the care they need when they need it.

Finally, we take care of others by remembering suicide prevention is not a one day, one week, or one month endeavor. September is Suicide Prevention Month, but suicide prevention is needed around the clock, 365 days a year. Let us use this month and its scheduled events to recommit ourselves to this great endeavor so that we are ready to be there for others, that we might make a difference, and enable them to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives.

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The Signature

ANCHORS

AN INSIDE LOOK AT CHIEF PET

By ITC (Sel) Zachary James

ITC (Sel) Zachary James climbs ropes aboard the USS Constitution (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jerine Lee)

The USS Constitution played host to the Cheif Petty Officer Heritage Week (U.S. Navy Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Elliott Fabrizio)

handling and combat, loading and firing aut NCTS Sicily powder-loaded muske “HUZZAH! Her sides are made of how to furl and unfurl Iron!” This exclamation of a crewman as line handling, clim aboard the USS Constitution during aloft. Each morning a her August 19, 1812 defeat of the gun team had the hon British Frigate, HMS Guerriere, led to the colors ceremony, her becoming known more commonly the firing of the Cons among Sailors as “Old Ironsides.” starboard cannon at c The oldest commissioned warship in each night we had the active service, the Constitution and her sleeping aboard the sh active duty crew of 58 Sailors continue were joined by Rear A to foster 221 years of naval heritage, Commander, Naval M service, and victory. During the 2019 Oceanography Comm Chief Petty Officer Select Heritage Chief Petty Officer), w Week, I truly came to understand the traditional dining-in e importance of Old Ironsides and what the successful week a she represents to my service and nation. dedication of mentors From August 19-23, 2019, LSC In addition to herita (Sel) Jimmy Johnson and I, along with value of the mentorsh over 90 other CPO selectees, had cannot be calculated. the unique opportunity of receiving Petty Officer of the N mentoring and heritage training aboard Smith sat down with e the Constitution. During our week, we expound on his succe were led by Chief, Senior Chief, and experiences as a CPO Master Chief Petty Officer mentors. of the common pitfall From the start, we recognized the drastic face and challenged u change in training dynamic from our the expectations of ou previous three weeks of selectee training roles. Twice each day at Sigonella, during which we were opportunity to sit with challenged mentally and physically to to learn from them an prepare us for the stressful nature of our feedback and advice. new professional responsibilities. This experiences and cont time, our training focused on learning the week will be draw from our elders and appreciating the attendance for the dec deep Navy heritage that binds us all.

Selectees also parti For heritage training, selectees were community relations e immediately assigned to one of twelve Fletcher-class destroy “gun teams.” Throughout the week, each Young (DD-793). Th Cmdr.

Hamish team toured every nook and cranny of Kirkland gives exits remar provided over 400 co of fighting command Old Ironsides, from her topoftoPatrol Squadron 9 deploye cleaning and repairin Navy her keel. We received(U.S. training onphoto pike courtesy of VP-9) engineering spaces w

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S AWEIGH

TTY OFFICER HERITAGE WEEK

, procedures for ship. The event director estimated thentic 19th century that in a single morning, selectees had et rifles and cannons, accomplished an estimated one years’ l all 43 sails, as well worth of volunteer work towards the mbing, and working ship’s preservation. Afterwards, we felt Chief Petty Officer Selects pull in the Main sail aboard USS Constitution and evening, one inspired to share our motivation with during Chief Petty Officer Heritage Week (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Peter Ticich /Released) nor of conducting the entire city of Boston. We formed a punctuated by three-column formation and marched stitution’s forward through the streets of Charlestown, all the call to colors, and way from the Navy Yard, along Boston’s e experience of Freedom Trail to Bunker Hill Monument hip. One night we Park, and back again. The entire way, Adm. John Okon, we sang “Anchors Aweigh” at the top of Meteorology and our lungs, prompting Boston residents mand (and honorary to open doors and windows, stop their who treated us to a cars to record us on their smartphones, event to celebrate and wave with their children. We may and award the have lost our voices, but our level of s and gun teams. pride in our service was unsurpassed. age training, the On the final day, all of our training hip we received culminated in us taking Old Ironsides Master Chief underway. The Constitution left her Navy Russell home at Charlestown Navy Yard, traveled each gun team to to Fort Independence on Castle Island, (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist esses, failures, and fired a ceremonial 21-gun salute from 3rd Class Peter Ticich /Released) O. He warned us her starboard cannons, and returned ls that new chiefs home. Along the way, a second 17-gun us to rise to meet salute was fired as we passed the U.S. ur new professional Coast Guard Station and former site of y, we had the the Edmund Hartt Shipyard, where the h dozens of chiefs Constitution was built and launched. nd to receive honest Participating in Chief Petty Officer The invaluable Heritage Week was a rewarding, oncetacts gained during in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the wn upon by all in lessons learned will last us all a lifetime. cades to come.

These lessons will be passed onto the icipated in a hundreds of Sailors that we will lead event aboard the and develop during our careers, so yer USS Cassin that we can instill in the entire enlisted he force of Sailors community a sense of heritage and rks after being relieved U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Selects participate in line ombined hours of pride in our service, the finest and most ed to NAS Sigonella. handling evolutions during Chief Petty Officer Heritage ng berthing and powerful naval force in the world.

Week. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication within the retired Specialist 3rd Class Peter Ticich /Released)

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The Signature

Dining with Julius Caesar, a Journey Through Roman Diet and Meal Traditions

By Alberto Lunetta

NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Vivid descriptions of Imperial Rome lavish banquets made by satirical poets Martial and Petronius chronicle just how elaborate and sophisticated the Roman cooking tradition was.

In addition to social properties of food, it was also considered to be essential for preventing illnesses.

When looking at the foods available at the time of the Romans, it is surprising to see that many ingredients that we consider essential for our diet today were absent at that time. You may ask yourself: how did they survive without pasta, tomatoes, or coffee? After studying the recipes from historic sources, scholars eventually realized that Romans made up for the lack of modern foods with a number of other food staples.

The Romans did not have tomatoes or potatoes, which became, and still are, the primary source of survival for European populations. Eggplant, chili peppers, corn, and turkey where also unknown since they arrived in Europe only after their discovery in America.

Asparagus and artichokes were rare as they were mainly a privilege of the rich. There was no pasta either, and rice was imported from India only for use as a starch to bond ingredients.

Among cereals, wheat was the staple food of all Romans. It was mainly imported from Egypt, which was considered the “bread basket” of the empire. Wheat was baked into bread or boiled into a type of porridge

A mosaic from a Roman house in Pompeii shows the rich variety of food available at the time.

(Photo from fineartamerica.com)

similar to grits or cream of wheat. The ring-shaped bread molds used by the Romans are still very popular in the Mediterranean area. There were about 100 different kinds of bread, and bread was also the main food of the legionaries of the Roman Army where soldiers were required to pay up to one third of their wages for their food.

They accompanied bread with cheese or beans and water or even diluted vinegar when the weather was too hot.

At the time of the Romans, the Mediterranean Sea was richer than it is now in fish stock. Anchovies, sardines, jackfish, mackerels, giltheads, red mullet, sprats, tuna, white breams, squids, lobsters, oysters, and all varieties of shellfish found a place on the tables of the Romans.

Today’s steak lovers would be disappointed to hear that Romans did not eat beef. Just like in India, cows were used to work in the fields; therefore their meat wasn’t tender enough for the sophisticated Romans’ palate.

On the other hand, pork, lamb, venison, hare, hake, chicken, ducks, geese, partridges, goats, porpoise cranes, flamingoes, thrushes, turtles, wild donkey, snails and frogs were very popular. Sheep and goat cheeses were very popular as they were also used to make food gifts.

Even foie gras, which is commonly believed to be just a French specialty, is actually a Roman invention.

Historical sources say that Apicius, "ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 13

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Gilday Relieves Richardson as Chief of Naval Operations

From Chief of Naval Operations Public Affairs WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Adm. Mike Gilday relieved Adm. John Richardson as the Chief of Naval Operations in a ceremony, Aug. 22, at the Washington Navy Yard.

Gilday became the 32nd CNO, the U.S. Navy’s most senior officer.

As a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the CNO acts as an advisor to the President of the United States, the National Security Council, the Homeland Security Council, and the Secretary of Defense. Under direction of the Secretary of the Navy, the CNO is responsible for the command, utilization of resources, and operating efficiency of naval forces and shore activities assigned by the Secretary.

The Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer acted as the presiding officer and guest speaker at the ceremony.

In his speech, Spencer focused on the Navy’s many accomplishments during Richardson’s tenure.

“The Sailors serving this nation are constantly on Adm. Richardson’s mind and close to his heart. As much as Adm. Richardson has done for our capabilities and processes, he’s done more for our people. Thanks to his efforts, the men and women of the U.S. Navy are safer, better prepared, and better commanded while standing watch around the world.”

Before concluding, Spencer spoke about the future of the Navy.

“Adm. Gilday has already played a critical role in restoring our readiness and lethality, and he’s well positioned to help take our integrated naval force into the next decade.”

During the ceremony, Gilday spoke about the status of the Navy and what he sees in the service’s future.

WASHINGTON (Aug. 22, 2019) Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike Gilday delivers his first remarks as the 32nd CNO during a change of office ceremony held at the Washington Navy Yard.

Gilday, former Director, Joint Staff, relieved Adm. John Richardson, the 31st CNO. (U.S. Navy photo

by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ryan U. Kledzik/Released)

“I believe our Navy’s strategic direction is rock solid and that our Navy is in great shape,” said Gilday.

“We are recruiting and retaining a high-quality force, we are providing well trained combat-ready forces forward, around the globe. We are modernizing our Navy at a scope and pace not seen in decades. I can say all that, in large part, due to the leadership of our 31st CNO.” Gilday also thanked Richardson and his family for their service throughout the years.

“Admiral and Mrs. Richardson – John and Dana – thanks for your nearly four decades of selfless service,” said Gilday. “You have given so much – and accomplished so much – all of it quietly and humbly, yet so effectively.”

In his speech, Richardson thanked his family, friends, those who served with him during his 37-year tenure, as well as the men and women serving in the Navy.

“The Navy has given so much to me

and my family,” said Richardson. “Most important has been the chance to be part of a noble institution, working with honorable and talented people. Dana and I are so grateful for a lifetime of working shoulder-to-shoulder with the Navy team.”

Richardson also praised Gilday and spoke about some of his accomplishments.

“Admiral Gilday is a true cutting edge warfighter, a surface warrior who, by virtue of his leadership at 10th Fleet, fully appreciates the challenges we face in the cyber warfare arena and the increasing pace of competition in new domains,” said Richardson.

“His experience as the director of the Joint Staff will ensure that the Navy continues to look for every opportunity to collaborate with other services, allies, and partners around the world. The Navy will be in good hands with Admiral Gilday at the helm.”

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"ICE" cont’d from Page 3

left the trash in my room and that was totally unacceptable. During my stay, definitely use some improvement.

I had to get the manager involved The areas with tables & chairs have once because my room supposedly lots of bird droppings, the grounds got cleaned but the work was sloppy. are dirty, and the pool itself could Whoever did the job took no pride use a deep cleaning (tiles are black or professionalism in doing their near the slide area). Thank you! job. The manager at the time came Response: with someone else to clean up and Welcome to Sigonella, and thank you that should have not had happened. for taking the time to give us feedback NGIS is not cheap, so I expect the about our MWR facilities. We are service to better. Also, our men and glad you are making full use of the women in service deserve more and installation’s pools. Regarding your NGIS definitely needs to step it up. concerns about cleanliness, the NAS I Response: pool will soon be drained to properly Thank you for taking the time deep clean the tilework. In addition, to provide us with your valuable we have made note of your comments feedback. I personally contacted the about the dirty surfaces. Considering NGIS general manager to specifically the outdoor nature of that facility, it address your issue. We apologize for is an ongoing challenge to keep up your less than satisfactory stay. It is with the cleanliness, and we will make NGIS policy to replace the sheets at note to put more focus on this area. least twice a week for extended stay For any future questions or guests, or any time prior to that if suggestions, please contact necessary. We are working hard to Elizabeth Leonard, MWR Fitness make sure that this does not happen Director, at DSN 624-0504 again in order to provide the highest / COMM 095-56-0504. level of service to our customers. We Comment Regarding NGIS: are very sorry for not being able to My complaint is directed towards meet your expectations of cleanliness the NAS II NGIS housekeeping and efficiency. We hope to serve department. The service is certainly you better in the future and provide the worst I have experienced, and I the service you deserve. If you have have stayed at more than 70 hotels. any further questions please do not The biggest issue is that they do not hesitate to contact NGIS Manager, change sheets unless someone asks.

Ms. Anna Longo, at Anna.Longo.

One week, my sheets were not changed IT@eu.navy.mil or DSN 624for seven days in a row. Even after 6829 COMM 095-86-6829. contacting the front desk to request service, they dropped the ball and did not relay the information. I literally had to either call or physically tell the maid to change my sheets or they would not. Security “My car was hit in the parking lot and I remember one day housekeeping did no note was left. MA Shirley and his not even go inside my room. When I partner came on the scene promptly, arrived there after work, I called the were very courteous, and explained the front desk and housekeeping had left reporting process to me. The security for the day. One day the maid actually

Bravo Zulu!

forces here do an awesome job, especially with the heat and weather conditions they have to work in. The force is professional, and does their job well. Kudos to MA Shirley, his partner, and the entire security force staff.”

MVRO “This comment is for the Motor Vehicle Registration Office. Guise helped me the other day and was absolutely phenomenal. She was kind, knowledgeable, patient, and very helpful. I wish everyone was half the help she was. Thanks!”

MWR “I want to give a huge shout to Tom Kubalewski at MWR. My husband left his phone on a bus rented through MWR from an event on a Friday evening. He needed the phone and we were able to track it to the parking lot where the bus was parked. I contacted Tom and since the bus was near his home, he picked up the phone from the company on that Saturday morning and delivered it himself to our friend’s home. He went above and beyond to help us. What an amazing person!”

“I organized a volunteer appreciation party at the Midtown theatre at NAS I and everything went smooth and the event was a huge success! The manager, Darryl Chandler, helped with the organization leading up to it and the day of, and Chris Chattman also helped on the day of the party. Both were very approachable and listened to our concerns and requests. Great job to them! We were able to set up with ease, and they helped us move tables outside of the theatre to set up for our initial gathering. Thank you for helping us say thank you to our volunteers!”

“A HUGE shout out to Eric Barge and all those that volunteered their time to make the wrestling camp a big success. My son talked about

September 6, 2019

this camp daily and was so excited to show me what he learned in a short amount time at their “mini tournament” on the final day. I am a completely satisfied parent. I know these camps take time, commitment, and most of all experienced volunteers willing to share and teach what they know. Your dedication does not go unnoticed. FABULOUS JOB!!!!!”

Housing “I would like to give a shout out to Mr. Peter Faulk and his staff.

They really helped me out when my housing situation fell through.

They truly care and are there to

"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 10

an eccentric rich man famous for his sauces and extravagant dishes, was the first to come up with the idea of force-feeding dried figs to geese to enlarge their livers.

Fruits that were commonly available were apples, pears, lemons (from Greece), apricots (from Armenia), cherries, plums, grapes, walnuts, almonds, and chestnuts. Dates, which were imported from northern Africa, were the only “exotic” fruits commonly available. The most widespread vegetables were broad beans, lentils, cabbages, leeks, garlic, onions, water cress, and chicory. Broad beans and cabbage were grown most extensively, and mushrooms and olives were very popular. Olive oil was commonly used for a multitude of purposes including cooking, fuel, and cosmetics (like perfumes, body oils, etc.)

The Romans did not have the variety of drinks that we have today.

Water, milk, wine, beer, and herb infusions were the main beverages.

Camel milk was drunk in the Asian and African provinces while horse

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day, they accomplished everything.

They were polite, fun, and thoughtful.

“I live on the economy and the refrigerator broke at 2100 one night. I They took great care in wrapping called the urgent help line, and within each of my demijohns in bubble wrap and cushioning them in boxes. They two hours I had a new refrigerator! I also carefully documented all items want to say thank you to the housing staff as well as the two guys who had to on the inventory sheet and were very carry the new refrigerator up to the 3rd thorough in their packing. They made this day way less stressful and were floor as well as take the old one back much more organized, especially after down. The housing staff is the best five stateside moves. “Sebastian from that I have worked with in my 25-plus NAVSUP stopped by to check on years of being in the Navy. BRAVO things and was so pleasant to speak ZULU to Mr. Faulk and his staff!” to and continued to put our minds at NAVSUP Personal Property ease. What a fantastic group of people “We had our household goods packto do business together with!” out on recently with Golden. In one serve. Thank you, Housing!!

and donkey milk was mainly used as medicine or cosmetics.

Wine, the national drink, was considered to be divine. Since it was very strong, vino was diluted with water or mixed with honey to prepare “mulsum,” a cooling aperitif that accompanied the first course at dinner. Grapes were extensively cultivated. The dregs of the grapes left after wine was made were used a food preservative.

Beer, which was invented by the ancient Egyptians, was drunk as a tonic. It was made by the alcoholic fermentation of wheat and barley but it did not contain hop, an essential ingredient of modern beer. Romans did not typically offer beer to their guests; they would provide it as a beverage for the troops stationed outside Europe.

Romans ate three times a day. A small breakfast consisted of leftovers from the previous night such as bread, cheese, olives, eggs, capers, dried fruits, or honey. Children had milk, flat cakes, or bread. Lunch also consisted of leftovers. It was eaten at thermal baths, where people would work out, socialize, and make

business deals. Dinner was the main meal and they were elaborate and lengthy. Guests sat according to a prescribed order, which reflected their social status. The dining room, known as the “triclinium,” had three couches where Romans laid in a recumbent position on their left elbows and ate with their fingers.

Dinner consisted of three parts.

The first course, called “gustum,” was the appetizer consisting of salads, eggs, cheeses with herbs, mushrooms, truffles, and various fruits. Next was the “mensa prima” (main course), which was a variety of meat, game, or fish. Most of those were served with sauce. One of the most popular sauces was “garum.”

This popular factory-made fish condiment was made from pickled and fermented intestines of mackerel.

Just like modern Italy, dinner was a time that families spent together and an opportunity to build social and business relations.

So even if the Roman diet was drastically different than that of modern day Italy, the traditions surrounding meals helped form the foundation of Italy’s food culture.