The Signature | December 21, 2018

NCTS Holds Change of Command Ceremony PAGE 4

Marinai Tree Lighting Photos

Calling All Actors for MWRs New Community Theater Program

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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DECEMBER 21, 2018

Vol. 35 No. 48

A Look Back: Top Ten Stories of 2018

By Janine Scianna NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

As we approach the New Year, there is a lot for Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella to look back on and be proud of. 2018 was a year of accomplishments—professional, athletic, personal, and environmental. But it was also a reflective one as the base commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Operation Husky WWII campaign, and remembered fallen service members and police officers that lost their lives in the line of duty. Here are just a few of this year’s most memorable news stories.

talion of infantry near Ponte Dirillo, Sicily, from July 10 to 12, 1943.

Operation Husky was a joint operation between England, Canada, and the United States which initiated the Italian Campaign of World War II, a conflict lasting more than a month and costing more than 14,000 lives. It was the largest amphibious operation of World War II in terms of the size of the landing zone and number of divisions put ashore on its first day.

Vice Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti spoke about the lasting partnerships that formed following the war.

“Today, Italy and the U.S., along with our NATO allies and partners, remain committed to the stability, security, and economic prosperity of Europe. It is through the strength of our alliances and partnerships that we are able to use our collective power for peace.”

1. NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Force Gets its First Commanding Officer On Sept. 10, 2018, Brig. Gen. Phillip A. Stewart, U.S. Air Force, assumed his duties as the first permanent commander of the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) Force.

In taking command, Stewart became the highest ranking U.S. service member permanently stationed at Sigonella.

After three years of building up the command under the leadership of Interim Commander Col. Pedro Renn, AGS is now poised to be the first fully NATOowned and operated flying unit. It will enable the Alliance to perform persistent terrestrial and maritime surveillance operations over wide areas from highaltitude. The main operating base for AGS is here at NAS Sigonella, which is serving as a NATO Joint Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance deployment base and data exploitation center.

3. Sigonella’s Ristorante Bella Etna Galley Wins NEY Award The NAS Sigonella galley won the small shore category in Captain Edward F. Ney Award for Food Service Excellence competition. This annual award encourages excellence in Navy food service programs with the objective of improving the quality of life for Navy personnel.

Chief Warrant Officer 3 Francisco Marigundon, NAS Sigonella food service officer remarked, ”We are very proud of our accomplishments and extremely honored to earn the Ney Award. Last year we were finalists, but this year we earned it and finally get to bring the trophy home. We try to create healthy, fresh, and delicious menus that give each visitor a taste of home—and, a taste of Sicily!”

2. 75th Anniversary of Operation Husky Commemorated To commemorate the 75th anniversary of WWII’s Operation Husky, U.S. military leaders and joined together with officials from the Sicilian towns of Niscemi and Gela in ceremonies at the Ponte Dirillo landing site and the city of Gela. Sailors and civilians of NCTS and NAS Sigonella gathered in remembrance of the 39 service members from the 82nd Airborne Division who lost their lives fighting off over half a dozen German Tiger tanks and an entire German bat-

4. Sigonella Student Named DoDEA Europe Athlete of the Year Sigonella freshman Averi Chandler was named was named the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Europe Female Athlete of the Year for 2018. Not only did Averi follow in her sister Kisiah’s footsteps, who won DoDEA Europe Female Athlete of the Year for 2017, Averi was also named MVP for volleyball, basketball and softball for all of Europe.

And, all three of her teams earned the Division III European championship title. On top of her great ath-

letic achievements, Chandler maintained a 3.7 GPA throughout the school year.

Michelle Chandler, Athletic Director for Sigonella High School, remarked, “Averi’s excellence at the net in volleyball is equaled by her skill driving to the hoop in basketball and her prowess behind home plate in softball.”

5. New Memorial Unveiled for Five Fallen Masters-at-Arms On Oct. 25, the NAS Sigonella Security Department held a ceremony honoring fallen masters-atarms (MAs) who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country— MA2 Michael Monsoor, MA1 John Douangdara, MA2 Sean Brazas, MA2 Michael Brodsky, and MA2 Mark Mayo. All five were recognized for their heroic actions at a remembrance ceremony and their shadow boxes were placed on permanent display on a memorial wall inside Building 606 on NAS II. Though simple in design, the ceremony, planned

by Master Chief Master-at-Arms Nick Francis and Master-at-Arms First Class Daniel Concolino, focused the audience’s attention on the sacrifices made by the fallen MAs while in the line of duty. After brief remarks by Francis and Lt. Cmdr. Allen Richmond, NAS Sigonella security officer, each MA was individually honored by having their award citations read aloud while shadow boxes containing photos, a folded flag, and their citation were unveiled and solemnly saluted by chief and senior chief masters-at-arms. After each citation, a bell was tolled to honor their sacrifice.

6. Governor of Sicily Honors NAS Sigonella with Environmental Award On Apr. 13, NAS Sigonella was presented with an award recognizing the outstanding waste reduction efforts Sigonella made in 2017. The award specifically called out the Community Relations (COMREL) efforts conducted at Mt. Etna since 2013.

Every year, Sigonella participates in “Meglio Parco che sporco,” which is an annual environmental cleanup that brings thousands from all around the volcano

“STORIES” continued on Page 8

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DECEMBER 21, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

Direct Line

CMDCM Nancy Estrada, NAS Sigonella Command Master Chief Let’s connect! With more and more of our social and professional lives going online, we still have a need to connect in real life. With being overseas— and many of us being away from home for the first time—this can often lead to a sense of isolation. It is vital to reach out from both sides of the doorway; those who need extra support must reach out for a hand, and those who are already in a stable place need to look out for colleagues in distress and drawn them in.

But how can we connect? There are so many ways! One way is to participate in our upcoming installationwide Sailor 360 program. It will be open to all paygrades, all commands, and all services. We will be doing things a little differently this year; instead of dividing people by paygrades or divisions, we will be grouping Sailors by personality types. Go to https:// www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test and take the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator test to see what your

personality type is, for FREEEE!!! And it only takes about 10 minutes…maybe 15 if you overthink the questions.

Bring your personality type to our kickoff event in mid-January where you will be sorted into your new group of like-minded people, just like it was your first day at Hogwarts! Introverts, we’ve got you! Come on out and we will help you find other people who also mostly want to mind their own business, but still need to connect for support. CREDO facilitator Richard Graves will be there, just like a sorting hat, to let us know a little bit about our new groups (houses) and help us learn how to work together—like Dumbledore (and he kind of looks like him!)

Ultimately, the goal is to connect people with others that they may not have the opportunity to meet otherwise and still provide meaningful team building events and training suited to each personality type.

Sometimes you can’t connect in person. Maybe you need help or need

to connect with someone RIGHT NOW and it’s the middle of the night or the Fleet and Family Support Center is closed and you don’t think it’s serious enough to go to the hospital. Here is where www.militaryonesource.mil can come in handy. They have help available on a wide range of topics and counselors available 24/7. The site is mobile friendly, provides on-demand live chat and live phone counselors, AND you can schedule video chat counseling sessions as well. There are resources on there for just about anything that could possibly stress you out—finances, EFM program resources, relationships, moving, childcare, dealing with the unexpected, and everything in between. And don’t forget the base chaplains—they are also available 24/7 and have a duty phone (335-831-4493) if you need immediate assistance for yourself or a loved one.

Each of us is unique and has different challenges, experiences, and even personalities to share. However, even

if you feel like you’re all alone, remember that for almost any issue you can experience, there is likely to be someone nearby who can relate, no matter what your background is. When you are feeling alone and in a dark, isolated place, I guarantee someone close by is not only willing but even happy to help.

Sometimes a person who you might least expect has been in the exact same spot and managed to make it through to the other side. And we all would love nothing more than to pay that forward.

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Sug-

gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks.

Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard

those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program!

There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu.

– or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".

Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding Availability of Counseling Services:

As the military has finally acknowledged the growing severity of mental health issues that plague our service members, especially around the holiday season when depression is known to worsen, I find it greatly troubling that upon calling Fleet and Family for counseling services, my troop was turned away due to lack of available counselors. To be fair, the staff was very polite and suggested alternatives such as militaryonesource.com and a chaplain who I believe is also undermanned. However on this installation where we face continuous issues that are seemingly out of the hands of U.S. leadership, this is one where responsibility shifting needs to be forgone for immediate/better solutions. Resources need to be attained without hesitation to assist ALL of the NASSIG community and show that when it comes to mental health services, military leadership is doing more than just paying lip service. Thank you for your time.

Response:

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. Your evaluation of our center and staff are essential in ensuring we provide the best products and services to the NAS Sigonella community. I wholeheartedly agree that mental health issues and depression are problems that should not be ignored, especially during the holiday season. I can state with 100% confidence that the Fleet and Family Support Center has not and will not turn away any service members seeking individual clinical counseling within our scope of practice.

The requests we are not currently supporting are for couples counseling. For those cases, FFSC has been referring couples to the Chaplains and Military One Source, who can provide video counseling via an app called Zoom. Like the Cha-

plains, FFSC has been short-staffed in the Counseling and Advocacy Division due to employee turnover and the lengthy overseas recruitment process. Safety is the first priority for FFSC, therefore cases involving abuse and suicide take precedence over clinical counseling. Due to heavy Family Advocacy Program (FAP) caseloads and the FFSC’s current short-staffed state, they first offer to see couples individually.

If they decline individual counseling, the couple will then be referred for couples counseling to the other resources previously mentioned. When referring to the Chaplains, the FFSC will not only provide the referral, but also assist the handover by supplying the customers’ contact information to the Chaplains.

Please rest assured that we are continuing to work towards the ability to offer services to couples together again in the future. To schedule a clinical counseling appointment for your troop and if you would like to discuss this further, please contact the Counseling and Advocacy Program Supervisor, Dr. John Ferreira at 624-4291.

Comment Regarding Marinai Utility Outages/Security:

Marinai has had many recent power outages during the day and the night. The power went out for three hours last night and twice today for 45 minutes each. This happens almost every single day. Water outages are also a nuisance, but the electricity fluctuating on and off is the cause of these issues. We have lived here for almost three years now and have never seen it this bad.

Response:

Thank you for your comment. I agree that there have been many issues happening lately in Marinai. As you already know, power is very inconsistent here in Sicily

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DECEMBER 21, 2018

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Name: Hospital Corpsman Third Class Victor Guyton Department: SPMAGTF 19.1 Logistics Combat Element Medical Team Hometown: Tuscumbia, AL The hospital corpsman community is one that is large and complex. From specializing as a cardiovascular technician to working alongside Marine units, hospital corpsmen have tasks that range from basic patient care and administration duties to complex procedures that save and sustain lives.

Working side by side with the Marines of the Special Marine Air Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) 19.1 rotation is just one of the many tasks that a hospital corpsman will face while deployed here at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella.

Hospital Corpsmen attached to the SPMAGTF provide continuous medical support to its Marines during abnormal working hours as well as during any ex-

ercise or mission that may arise along the way.

Guyton deployed to NAS Sigonella in October and is part of the medical team attached to the SPMAGTF 19.1 Battalion Aid Station (BAS). There, he provides constant assistance to medical providers with sick call and medical readiness of all Marine Air Ground Task Force personnel. His primary duties include being the BAS Assistant Leading Petty Officer, Immunizations Petty Officer, and Corpsman Coverage Coordinator. He also supports many Marines in furthering their careers with other medical needs and tasks required to continue down the path they have chosen. This can range from recruiting to special operations packages.

"ICE" continued from Page 2 whether you live in the economy, Marinai, or you work at NAS I or NAS II. Unfortunately, Pizzarotti nor the government has control over the ENEL electrical company and its distribution of power to our sites. All residents can take precaution in protecting their electronics by using surge protectors and UPS (uninterruptible power supply). NAVFAC and Pizzarotti have been engaged with ENEL by calling and sending letters with our concerns. Based on our feedback ENEL is to upgrade their systems, however, this will be a long term project and won’t occur overnight. On Marina, Pizzarotti has tried to counteract the problems by replacing a backup generator and upgrading new electrical switch gear on the water system to prevent water outages from occurring due to power outages.

Please know that during electricity outages, Pizzarotti staff is juggling a lot—from trying to remedy the situation, getting updates from ENEL, updating NAVFAC and Housing staff, to fielding calls from the residents. Please visit the Housing Facebook page where status updates are posted.

For future housing related questions, please contact the Housing Director, Peter Faulk, at 624-4070 or peter.faulk@eu.navy. mil.

Guyton has eight years of Navy service under his belt. He chose the hospital corpsman rate because he wanted to help treat the injuries of Sailors and Marines on and off the battlefield. He plans on continuing to expand his medical knowledge by submitting a biomedical technician “C” school application package upon returning from deployment with the SPMAGTF 19.1 logistics combat element team.

When Guyton isn’t hard at work, he enjoys volunteering and creating positive relationships in the Sigonella community. The availability of the community relations (COMREL) trips have really let Guyton have a chance to see and do more in the towns neighboring NAS Sigonella.

“I enjoy giving back to the local community that has been gracious enough to host us and make us feel welcome in Sicily,” said Guyton.

In an attempt to further his professional development within his rate, Guyton was selected to participate in cold weather training in Sweden to add to his already extensive skill set. It was there that he learned about the different signs and symptoms of hypothermia as well as how to survive and treat patients in extreme cold temperatures.

“We had to learn how to remain calm and to have a plan of action,” commented Guyton.

In addition to going to “C” school, Guyton is hoping to spend his next assignment on a ship before reaching his preferred tour in Pensacola. Until that time, he is enjoying exploring Catania and other Sicilian towns with the aid of MWR trips when the time permits and looking forward to safely returning home to his wife and son.

BZ Regarding MWR Janitorial Services at Midtown: I want to take a moment to acknowledge a behind-the-scenes person that I have watched this past year who goes about their business providing world class customer service. Giuseppe (I do not know his last name) works in Midtown and has the daunting job of cleaning the public spaces like the men's locker room, restrooms, showers, and common areas. At the gym, I often see him pick up behind people and clean up disgusting messes that less thoughtful people leave behind without complaining, and he does it with a smile. And at the theater, he goes above and beyond by letting me know if we have clogged toilets, something isn't working properly, or if there is something that he thinks warrants my attention. So to Giuseppe I say Bravo Zulu!

Darryl "OC' Chandler Theater Manager, NAS I Sigonella Sicily Response: Mr. Chandler, Thank you very much for your comment. The contractors working around the base often times have thankless jobs, and we typically only hear when something doesn't go as expected.

We sincerely appreciate you taking the time to recognize Giuseppe and we will send a note to his supervisor to ensure that he receives the recognition that he deserves.

Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@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 Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@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 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) 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.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy.

Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it 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, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday preceeding the expected publication date.

All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l.

Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

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THE SIGNATURE

NCTS Sicily Holds Change of Command Ceremony

By IT1 Benjamin Larkin Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station

SIGONELLA, Sicily (NNS) – Cmdr. Robert D. Matthias relieved Cmdr. Kelvin B. McGhee as the commanding officer of Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily during a change of command ceremony held onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella on Dec. 14.

Lt. Cmdr. James Scianna, NCTS Sicily executive officer, opened the change of command by reminding the audience of the traditions of the Navy, including change of command ceremonies, and their significance to our naval heritage.

Presiding over the change of command, Capt. Andrew Corey, commanding officer of NCTS Naples, spoke about the importance of the command’s mission.

“We are at war in the information domain every single day. NCTS Sicily provides vital operational support to the joint fighting force. The units we are supporting are executing sensitive operations that require optimal command and control support 24/7/365,” Corey said.

McGhee then addressed the command by thanking everyone and spoke about the impor-

tance of working closely with our local partners. He extoled Matthias as supremely capable of taking NCTS Sicily to the next level.

Matthias comes to NCTS Sicily having previously served as executive officer for the command from 2014 to 2016. He spoke about the history of leadership that has existed in Sicily for centuries, from the Greeks, Romans, Turks, to modern day Italy.

“Leadership has never left this island. It was here when I served as executive officer, and it is still here,” Matthias said.

He finished by expressing gratitude towards the command for this opportunity and encouraged Sailors under his command to make the best of themselves.

Matthias is an Omaha, NE native, and holds degrees from the U.S. Naval Academy (B.S.) and Naval Postgraduate School (M.S.) in Information Systems Technology Management.

NCTS Sicily reports to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, the Navy component command to U.S. Strategic Command and U.S. Cyber Command, to provide secure and reliable telecommunications in EUCOM, AFRICOM, and CENTCOM theaters of operation. The command represents a long history of superior command and control to a vital region of the world.

SIGONELLA, Sicily (Dec. 14, 2018) – Cmdr. Robert D. Matthias salutes Capt. Andrew Corey, commanding officer of Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Naples, during a change of command ceremony. During the ceremony, Matthias relieved Cmdr. Kelvin B. McGhee as the commanding officer of Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (Photo by IT2 Jordan Gilles/Released)

DECEMBER 21, 2018

DECEMBER 21, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

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Sharing the Electronic Spectrum From Navy and Marine Corps Spectrum Office Europe

In the last few years, the rapid adoption and expansion of commercial communication technologies has taxed available spectrum resources. Each sovereign nation has their own way of allocating the Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum, and they don’t necessarily share commonality with the U.S. or the rest of Europe.

The ability of Naval Forces to support diverse operations is largely dependent on their ability to communicate. Special Forces, submarines, and battle groups, along with various Marine Corps' units, are often the first to arrive in a theater and must rely on the electromagnetic spectrum to remain highly maneuverable, flexible, and tactically effective.

U.S. Forces routinely operate from bases in in Europe and Africa on short notice missions, exercises, and training evolutions. Due to the increasing use of technology by other entities near Host Nation bases shared with U.S. Forces, the incidence of RF interference has increased and will continue to do so. And Host Nation entities are paying closer attention to U.S. Forces’ activities.

Therefore, it is important that units deploying to U.S. Navy operated facilities in Europe and Africa notify their Service Spectrum Management Office Europe or Africa representative to submit required frequency requests prior to

the unit’s arrival in theater, to the appropriate Combatant Commander (COCOM) Frequency Management Office (FMO). The Navy’s FMO is Navy and Marine Corps Spectrum Office Europe/Africa (NMCSO EUR/AF).

Each U.S. Navy operated facility has an Installation Spectrum Manager (ISM), who is able to assist U.S. Forces in acquiring authorizations by coordinating with the Host Nation Base Commander and NMCSO Europe/ Africa. For NAS Sigonella, the ISM is Matthew Arnold. Frequency requests that are not submitted to NMCSO EUR/AF prior to arrival at the local installation cannot be approved by the base ISM. Base ISMs are not permitted to authorize use of RF emitting equipment until proper coordination with the appropriate Host Nation has been completed.

In accordance with U.S. State Department Treaties in Effect, Status of Forces Agreements, and Allied Communication Publications, the U.S. is obligated to follow Host Nation procedures regarding the use of RF emitting equipment from these installations. Refusal to comply with Host Nation regulations and policies have legal, political, and monetary ramifications.

If you have questions or would like to learn more, contact Matthew Arnold, NAS Sigonella Installation Spectrum Manager, at 624-2269 or the Navy and Marine Corps Spectrum Office Europe at 626-2004/3738/5354.

Military capabilities like the Army’s Electronic Warfare Planning and Management Tool allow for greater control and enhancement of electronic warfare capabilities. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army Graphic/Released)

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DECEMBER 21, 2018

Living Nativity Scene in Custonaci, Sicily: A Must Visit

By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Travel back in time to Bethlehem two thousand years ago and discover a beautiful corner of Sicily where the island’s rural experience is brought to life. Scurati is a little village where time seems to have stopped. It is located a mile from Custonaci, a town near Trapani nestled on the slopes of Monte Còfano.

Every year, this picturesque village houses one of the most beautiful living nativity scenes in Italy. The “Mangiapane Cave,” a majestic marble quarry from the Paleolithic period, is the backdrop for the nativity scene itself. The cave is named after the family that occupied it from the 19th century through World War II. Throughout the years, small houses, stables, and an oven to bake bread were built around the cave to replicate Bethlehem scenery.

The surrounding quarries host other nativities featuring about 160 local re-enactors and professional craftsman who demonstrate their trade.

The living nativity tradition, which dates back to 1983, derives from the celebrations in honor of the Virgin Mary of Custonaci.

Traditionally, on the night of Dec. 24, a torch light procession from the sanctuary to the cave and a brief religious drama is staged. The Virgin Mary, riding a donkey, knocks at the door of an inn asking for hospitality but is told that there is no room available. Instead, she stays at the cave.

Custonaci is fairly easy to reach from the Castellammare del Golfo exit on the Palermo-Trapani highway (A29). The 36th edition of the living nativity will be open on the following days: Dec. 25-26 and 29-30; January 5-7. There is also a shuttle bus service from the nearby village of Cornino. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/presepeviventecustonaci/

Famous Sicilian Christmas Cakes to Try This Holiday Season Story by Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

According to Sicilian tradition, Christmas night is magical because spells are cast by wizards who hide in mysterious hideouts located on inaccessible mountain passages. Legend says that during this night, the blue sky turns into a dazzling golden color and that hidden treasures concealed beneath walnut trees would bring a sudden wealth to whoever unveils them. Eccentric vendors offer precious objects, spices, and baskets full of nuts, pomegranates, almonds, pistachios, dried figs, raisins, pine-seeds and hazelnuts to the visitors. Dried fruits are always mentioned in Sicilian Christmas traditions as they symbolize wealth and plenty that deflects anxiety about the precariousness of life. This is the reason why many Sicilian Christmas cakes are made from dried fruit.

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14

The breathtaking Custonaci living nativity returns, keeping rural Sicilian traditions alive.

Custonaci is a small village nestled on the slopes of Monte Còfano. This settlement, which seems frozen in time, is located under the Grotta di Mangiapane, a majestic ancient marble cave. (Photo by City of Custonaci)

DECEMBER 21, 2018

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U.S.S. Harry Truman Strike Group Departs European Waters From U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/ U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (CSG) departed the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations Dec. 11, after more than three months of theater security cooperation and maritime security operations in the Arctic Ocean, and Norwegian, Mediterranean and Adriatic seas.

The strike group’s presence in European waters was the execution of U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis’ Dynamic Force Employment (DFE) concept. The CSG’s deployment began in April and became highly unpredictable when the carrier and a few of its strike group ships remained in the Mediterranean Sea instead of transiting to the Middle East as expected, and then returned to its homeport in Norfolk in July after completing three months of combat operations and cooperative exercises and engagements with NATO allies and partners in the Mediterranean and North Atlantic.

Adm. James G. Foggo III, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Allied Joint Force Command Naples, Italy, noted how the Harry S. Truman CSG’s deployment supported Department of Defense DFE initiatives and addressed a return to great power competition.

“The National Defense Strategy makes clear that we must be operationally unpredictable to our long-term strategic adversaries, while upholding our commitments to our allies and partners,” said Foggo.

“That’s what we've done with the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group. The operations the strike group conducted across the region alongside our allies and

partners – and withstanding a variety of austere environmental conditions in the High North – showcase our inherent flexibility, and prove that there are no international waters off limits to our forces, and nothing limiting their ability to support our allies, anywhere or at any time.”

Over the course of seven months in the region, the Harry S. Truman CSG conducted numerous bilateral and multilateral operations alongside allied and partner navies, to include forces from France, Germany, Italy, Norway and the United Kingdom. In the spring, the strike group participated in exercise Baltic Operations from the Adriatic Sea — the first cross-continent support to the exercise from an aircraft carrier — and exercise Lightning Handshake with Morocco.

Upon its return to the European Region in September, the strike group’s sustained operations above the Arctic Circle were the first for an aircraft carrier in more than two decades. Strike group ships and aircraft then participated in the NATO-led exercise Trident Juncture 2018 which involved personnel, ships and aircraft from every NATO member nation as well as partners Finland and Sweden. During Trident Juncture, the strike group operated alongside Royal Norwegian Navy ships in the Vestfjorden, a sea area inside Norwegian territorial waters.

Trident Juncture was NATO’s largest exercise since the Cold War with participation of 50,000 soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, and more than 250 aircraft, 65 ships, and 10,000 vehicles from 31 participating allied and partner nations.

“Collective defense has become a more prominent

Selective Reenlistment Bonus Updated; New Pay for Performance Pilot From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy updated the Selective Reenlistment Bonus (SRB) award plan for Active Component and Full Time Support Sailors and announced a pay for performance pilot program in NAVADMIN 302/18, released Dec. 13.

Updates include adding award levels for 19 skills in 10 ratings, increasing award levels for 35 skills in 12 ratings, decreasing award levels for 59 skills in 27 ratings and removing award levels for 11 skills in 7 ratings from the SRB program released May 2018, in NAVADMIN 119/18.

Increased award levels are effective immediately and decreased levels, including deletions, are effective 30 days after the release of NAVADMIN 302/18.

The NAVADMIN also announced a pilot program for Sailors in seven ratings who will receive an additional 0.5 multiple or “kicker” to their reenlistment bonus, based on demonstrated superior performance. The pilot is a Sailor 2025 initiative and is part of Navy’s effort to incentivize and promote superior performance through its bonus programs.

To be eligible for the performance kicker, Sailors must: -Be in one of the following ratings: Electrician’s Mate (EM), Engineman (EN), Gas Turbine Systems Technician (GSM), Machinist’s Mate (Surface) (MM(SW)), Damage

Controlman (DC), Hull Maintenance Technician (HT) and Machinery Repairman (MR) -Have received two early promotes (EP) on their three most recent regular periodic evaluations; transfer, concurrent, or special evaluations will not qualify -Have not received a non-judicial punishment within the last three years -Have not failed any part of the physical fitness assessment in the last three years The NAVADMIN also realigns the SRB reenlistment window to 180 days of a Sailor’s end of active obligated service (EAOS) vice one year, for those who are eligible for combat zone tax exclusion and Sailors with an early promote on their most recent regular periodic evaluation.

Eligible Sailors looking to reenlist under SRB are encouraged to work with their command career counselor, command master chief and chain of command to discuss timing and procedures for their reenlistment well before their EAOS. Requests are required to be submitted a minimum of 35 days prior to the requested reenlistment date.

Sailors can stay informed of award changes through the Navy's SRB webpage at http://www.public.navy.mil/ bupers-npc/career/enlistedcareeradmin/Pages/SRB.aspx.

For a complete listing of skills award levels eligible for SRBs and reenlistment requirements, read NAVADMIN 302/18 at http://www.npc.navy.mil/.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 8, 2018) An F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the Red Rippers of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11 launches from the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75).

Currently operating in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations, Harry S. Truman will continue to foster cooperation with regional allies and partners, strengthen regional stability, and remain vigilant, agile and dynamic. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adelola Tinubu/Released)

feature of NATO exercises due to the changes in the security landscape, particularly with regard to the illegal annexation of Crimea by Russia,” said Foggo during a press conference at NATO headquarters in October.

“Russia has renewed its capabilities in the North Atlantic and the Arctic in places not seen since the Cold War.” In his monthly podcast “On the Horizon: Navigating the European and African Theaters,” Foggo said, “Truman is making the most of an operating area where carriers typically haven't gone for a couple of decades. And in doing so, we are rebuilding our muscle memory. It's very important that we take those lessons back home for other future strike group deployments.”

During a visit to Naval Support Activity Naples, Italy, Adm. John Richardson, chief of naval operations, praised the U.S. Naval Forces Europe/U.S.6th Fleet Sailors for their implementation and execution of DFE with the Harry S. Truman CSG. “I am proud of all the Sailors in Naval Forces Europe and Africa, serving here in Naples and across the theater at sea,” said Richardson during an all-hands call. “These Sailors are doing tremendously important work. Defining and redefining the way that our Navy is going to operate going into the future as we reembrace this idea of great power competition.”

“We are entering a maritime era. The responsibilities for naval forces — the United States Navy and navies of our allies and partners — has never been greater,” Richardson added.

Harry S. Truman CSG units departing the region include the flagship Nimitz-class nuclear aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), embarked squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers of Destroyer Squadron 28; USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98).

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"STORIES" cont’d from Page 1 to pick up trash and educate people on the importance of keeping Etna clean.

As part of its larger COMREL program, the base, in conjunction with local organizations and cities, hosted 153 waste reduction actions held all over the island, while 390 Sicilian cities and more than 5,000 people participated.

7. Airman’s Training, Quick Response Saves Wingman’s Life After a long day at work at NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) Force on NAS Sigonella, Air Force Staff Sergeant Kyle Wilson settled down to eat a delicious steak and mushroom dinner. Little did he know that steak dinner was almost his last.

After a piece of steak became lodged in his throat and several failed attempts at performing a Heimlich maneuver on himself, Wilson texted his wingman, Staff Sergeant Shane Johnson, who lived nearby. Johnson immediately responded and after the five-minute drive, found Wilson unconscious on his front porch. Johnson performed the Heimlich maneuver which moved the piece of steak just enough to allow Wilson to breathe again.

After recovering fully, Wilson remarked “I definitely think he’s a hero,” said Wilson. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for him. He’s very humble but he definitely deserves praise.”

8. DoD Group Searches for Missing WWII Service Member in Sicily Service members and civilians assigned to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) have a singular mission: to recover missing personnel who are listed as POW, or MIA, from past wars and conflicts and from countries around the world, and attempt to bring peace to the families that have waited so long for an answer.

This year, the DPAA team conducted a search on the island of Sicily for the remains of a pilot lost during the WWII Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky. The search for the missing pilot was unsuccessful during this visit however, a promise was made, and the

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DPAA team will continue their recovery efforts to bring this WWII pilot home to the United States for a proper military burial. In Fiscal Year 2018, the Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency accounted for 203 formerly missing persons, the highest yearly total reached by the agency.

“This is an amazing mission and if you talk to the people here I'm sure they will tell you how honored they are to do this," said DPAA Deputy Director Rear Adm. Jon Kreitz. "This is not a short-term mission, there are many missing Americans all over the world and we are in this for the long haul.”

9. Sigonella Pays Tribute to Fallen in Inaugural Police Week For the first time, NAS Sigonella participated in National Police Week in May to honor fallen police officers.

The Security Forces members assigned to the 7th Reconnaissance Squadron organized a series of events, including a Fallen Defenders 5K run, a demonstration showcasing all the law enforcement offices on base (Italian and U.S. forces alike), and a six mile ruck march. During the march, each participant carried a minimum weight of 35 pounds in their ruck, symbolizing that individuals now bear the load that fallen officers can no longer carry. The week finished off with a friendly competition amongst agency forces and a Final Guard Mount ceremony.

Staff Sgt. Cathleen Biala, the organizer of the inaugural event, touched on the significance of the event.

“These events have given us the opportunity to build stronger relations with the Italian Air Force, Carabineri, and Polizia. It has been an invigorating experience to take part in the five events that honored and recognized those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said Biala.

10. American Red Cross Honors Sigonella Heroes The Sigonella American Red Cross presented Daryl Chandler with its highest award, the Certificate of Merit, and Brent Soper with the Extraordinary Personal Action Award, for their extraordinary efforts in saving a choking victim’s life.

On May 27, 2018, Chandler and Soper were at dinner in Germany celebrating the Sigonella High School’s softball and baseball championship games when suddenly they noticed a friend was choking. Without hesitation, they used their life saving training and worked together to perform the Heimlich maneuver and administer back blows to dislodge the obstruction from the victim’s airway.

“I have 17 years of training and this is the first time I have been required to use it,” said Soper. “You never know when you will find yourself in an emergency situation like this. Training could mean the difference between life and death.”

DECEMBER 21, 2018

VP-26 Conducts First P-8A Engine Change on Deployment

By Lt. j.g. Kaitlyn Morales VP-26 Public Affairs

SIGONELLA, Sicily. – The maintenance team assigned to the “Tridents” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 removed and replaced a CFM56-7 engine on a P-8A Poseidon at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Italy, Nov. 17-18.

This was the first engine change that VP-26 performed on deployment since their transition to the P-8A aircraft in 2016. Furthermore, it was only the second time that any patrol squadron has completed an engine change on a P-8A while deployed to NAS Sigonella.

“This was a very smooth evolution for something we rarely do, in a hangar not designed for a P-8” said Cmdr.

Eric Andrews, the executive officer of VP-26. “The team showed true, by-the-book maintenance.”

“We are very lucky that our team is experienced with this process from the two engine changes we did during our home cycle,” said Lt. Cmdr. Charles Lewis, maintenance officer of VP-26.

A team of ten, led by Aviation Machinists Mate 2nd Class Johnathon Kirchner, spent over nine hours replacing the 11,000 pound engine.

“The teamwork and coordination under AD2 Kirchner’s leadership was eye watering,” said Andrews.

Kirchner credited the success of the evolution to his experience, noting this was his seventh completed engine change on a P-8A. “You just have to know where your team leader is and not let anyone interfere with the process,” said Kirchner.

“The maintenance team demonstrated excellent procedural compliance and showed why we are the Golden Wrench-winning squadron.” Said Cmdr. Michael Haymon, commanding officer of VP-26.

VP-26, homeported in Jacksonville, Florida, arrived in theater September 2018 and is operating out of Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy.

SIGONELLA, Sicily (Nov. 17, 2018) Sailors assigned to the “Tridents” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 26, remove and replace a CFM56-7 engine on a P-8A Poseidon in at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, Nov. 17, 2018. VP-26, homeported in Jacksonville, Florida, arrived in theater September 2018 and is operating out of Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Sean R. Morton/Released)

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Marinai Tree Lighting

(December 12, 2018) Senior Chief Culinary Specialist Ruben Giron leads the Filipino-American Association choir in singing traditional American and Filipino Christmas songs at Marinai Base Housing’s annual tree-lighting event onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Janine Scianna)

(December 12, 2018) The Christmas tree is lit at Marinai Base Housing’s annual tree-lighting event onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Janine Scianna)

(December 12, 2018) Runners participate at an MWR-sponsored “Jingle Bell Jog” race at the start of Marinai Base Housing’s annual tree-lighting event onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Janine Scianna)

(December 12, 2018) A child has her face painted at Marinai Base Housing’s annual tree-lighting event onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Janine Scianna)

(December 12, 2018) Community members gather to watch a street performer at Marinai Base Housing’s annual tree-lighting event onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Janine Scianna)

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DECEMBER 21, 2018

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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) PROGRAM Command, Department or Organization: Region Legal Service Office Point of Contact Name: Caterina P. Di Bella Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-2953 Point of Contact Email Address: sigonella.legal@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: Volunteers are needed for the 2018 IRS Self Service Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Volunteers will receive free IRS training and a certificate upon completion. VITA center will be open during the tax season (overseas from 1 February till 15 June 2019). Anyone interested in volunteering to assist service members and their families with income tax filing should contact Base Legal (095-86-2953 or DSN 624-2953) or e-mail sigonella.legal@eu.navy.mil. We look forward to hearing from you!

MWR CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SURVEYS Command, Department or Organization: MWR Date of Event: NOW - DEC 31 2018 Location of Event: Randomly selected email recipients Point of Contact Name: Vanessa Ogletree Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-0511 Point of Contact Email Address: Vanessa.ogletree@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: Keep an eye on your inbox! You might receive an email from Max.gov to participate in the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Customer Satisfaction Survey. The survey responses are used to identify areas of success, opportunities for improvement and funding. For more information about the survey see FAQs and Fact Sheet: http://download.militaryonesource.mil/12038/MOS/Factsheets/MWRSurvey-FAQ-sheet.pdf http://download.militaryonesource.mil/12038/MOS/Factsheets/FactSheet-MWRSurvey.pdf

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 Daily Mass: 1130-1200 Chapel Youth Middle School: 1445-1615 AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:

0600-0700 1130-1200

Thursday 1330-1500 Chapel Youth High School: Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday 1130-1200 Daily Mass: First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830

Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel

Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:

1100-1200

Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education: 1045-1200 1100-1200 Protestant Service: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600

NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:

1130-1200

Weekly Traffic Report: December 11 - December 16, 2018

As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.

DECEMBER 21, 2018

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DECEMBER 21, 2018

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GAMEZONE Christmas

SANTA SHEPHERDS SKATES SLEIGH SNOWFLAKES SNOWMAN STABLE STAR STOCKING THREE WISE MEN TOBOGGAN TOYS TREE WREATH

MEDIUM

GOLD GREETING CARDS HOLLY ICICLES JESUS JOSEPH LIGHTS MANGER MARY MISTLETOE MYRRH ORNAMENTS POINSETTIA

EASY

ANGEL BELLS BETHLEHEM CANDLES CANDY CANE CAROLS DECORATIONS EGGNOG FAMILY FRANKINCENSE FRIENDS FRUITCAKE GABRIEL GIFTS

DIFFICULT

Find and circle all of the Christmas words that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell a secret message

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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 6 yellow color of the dough as eggs are mixed into “Buccellato” or “Cucciddatu” (as it is called in Sicilian), is one of the most popular cakes that are prepared during this holiday season. It is a short crust ring shaped cake filled with dried fruits, orange peels, chocolate, honey, and spices and sprinkled with pistachio. There is also a smaller version called Buccellatino that is covered with a white frosting. Other traditional cakes include Mustazzoli (sweets filled with cooked wine and mixed with almonds, pine-seeds, and nuts), Raviole (fried pastries filled with sweet ricotta) and Crispelle (rice fritters covered with honey).

Besides the traditional Buccellato, the classic Italian Christmas cakes such as “Panettone,” “Pandoro,” and “Torrone” are also very popular in Sicily. Panettone was first prepared in Milan in the 15th century at the bakery of a grumpy man names Tony. Since Tony had such a bad temper, Ughetto, one of his assistants, was afraid to ask him the permission to marry his daughter, Adalgisa, with whom he was in love. Thus, he decided to impress Tony by baking a special cake made from flour, sugar, candied fruits, and raisins. Soon, his cake became very popular and everybody in Milan asked for “Pan di Tony” (Tony’s bread) that was later named as “Panettone.”

In the wake of this popularity, Tony rewarded Ughetto by allowing him to marry Adalgisa.

A competing tradition claims that Panettone was first served for Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan from 1494–1499, during a lavish banquet as a replacement of a cake baked by the lead chef. After the original cake was botched, Tony, a bold scullery boy, prepared another one by hastily mixing flour, eggs, butter, sugar, and candied fruits to save the chef’s reputation. The Duke and his guests raved about the new cake and he decided to name it after Tony. Today, in addition to the traditional candied fruits and raisin fillings, Panettone is enriched with chocolate drops, frosting, almonds and fruit creams.

According to one tradition, “Pandoro,” (bread of gold) was named so because of the delicate

the other ingredients. Its origin stems from Verona, an elegant Renaissance city located in the north of Italy that was also chosen as a setting

by Shakespeare for his tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Yet another tradition says Pandoro was first prepared in Venice in the 16th century, when the maritime republic was wealthy and powerful. Chronicles of the time indicate that Pandoro was presented at the tables of the Venetian aristocrats. Today, Pandoro is enriched with fruit cream filling and frosting such as lemon or orange and chocolate.

Another delicacy “Torrone” is nougat made with sugar, honey, almonds, and hazelnuts.

Tradition holds that it was first prepared for the wedding reception of the Duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza, and Bianca Maria Visconti that took place in Cremona in 1441. Historic sources indicate that the nougat was molded into the shape of the 13th century Torrione tower, which still flanks Cremona’s cathedral, because it was included in bride’s dowry. Thus, the dessert was given the name “Torrone.” The wedding guests, who hailed from across Europe, were so impressed by the savory taste of Torrone that they praised its delicacy as they traveled back to their homes. Therefore, the Torrone earned a worldwide reputation. Today, Torrone has many different flavors. The traditional hard white one includes almonds or hazelnuts, but it can be enriched with liqueurs like rum, Gran Marnier, and Strega, chocolate, and is sometimes frosted with lemon, pistachio or orange icings.

The Legend of La Befana Story by Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

When I was a kid, I remember being very excited the night of Jan. 5 because I knew that the next morning, I would get special gifts from La Befana. I would place empty stockings under the

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 15

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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 14 Christmas tree and fall asleep, dreaming of her flying on her broom across the sky. Sometimes I could even hear her sneaking into the houses carrying a bag full of gifts for the good kids and coal for kids that didn’t behave!

But who is she? She is the Italian version of Santa Claus, a little old lady with a hooked nose that is dear to children. She is personified as a good witch who comes during the night of Jan. 5th, bringing gifts for the kids according to what they requested by writing her letters and sweet edible coal for the ones who don’t behave.

Her name comes from the word “Epifania” (Epiphany) which is the holiday celebrated on Jan. 6. The Feast of the Epiphany commemo-

PAGE 15 rates the visit of the three wise men to the infant Jesus, with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. According to legend, on their journey to Bethlehem, the Magi stopped an old woman with a broom who was cleaning, asking her for directions. As she asked where they were going, they told her that they were following a star that would lead them to a newborn baby. They asked her if she would like to come along with them to which she replied that she was too busy to go along with such nonsense.

As one can imagine, when she realized that the newborn was actually the prophesized Jesus, it was impossible to reach the caravan. Her regret was so strong that she committed to spending eternity delivering gifts to good children on Christmas, finding the Christ child in all children.

December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month From Navy & Marine Corps Public Health Center

Week 3: Medications Themselves Can Impair Driving Impaired driving can also occur when taking medications, even if alcohol isn’t involved. Be sure you are aware of side effects and interactions of all over-thecounter and prescription medications by talking to your health care provider or pharmacist, especially before getting behind the wheel. Medications can have similar negative effects to alcohol such as impaired judgment, perception, and motor skills. Approximately 16% of motor vehicle crashes involve drugs (legal and illegal) other than alcohol. Take a taxi or get a ride if needed.

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DECEMBER 21, 2018