Vol. 36 No. 13
June 28, 2019
TWO SQUADRONS CHANGE COMMAND Stories on pages 6-9
SIGONELLA SENIOR NAMED ATHLETE OF THE YEAR SIGONELLA RECEIVES AWARD FOR BEST GALLEY
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Direct Line
NAS Sigonella Public Works Officer, Cmdr. Michael Jarosz
Sig Citizens, As your Public Works Officer, I have two important items that I would like to discuss with you; first, the status of the NAS II gate construction and second, the publishing of our annual water quality reports. I apologize that the NAS II entry control facility (the main gate) did not open June 14 as advertised. The asphalt pavement placed on the roadways throughout the facility did not meet our quality standards and will require significant re-work. Note that while the new roadway is not expected to hold up for its intended 30-year design life, it is perfectly safe and usable in the near term. Therefore, since all other aspects of the entry control facility have been inspected and accepted by the government, the NAS Sigonella Security Department will be opening the gate sometime soon while the Public Works Department makes preparations for asphalt repairs at a later time. Because it becomes increasingly difficult to place quality asphalt when temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, delaying the repairs until temperatures cool off will better enable a satisfactory and lasting solution. While at some point, additional closures will be
required, opening the gate now will reduce the overall closure duration by several weeks because the repair plan design can be developed while the gate is temporarily operational. Once temperatures drop and we are ready to move forward, Public Works will work with the Security Department and base leadership to minimize impacts as much as possible. Please be prepared for a gate closure of up to several weeks while we finish the job. Upon completion of the road repairs and construction of the Visitor Control Center—on schedule for delivery this fall—we will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of this new and improved capability for the Sigonella community. Again, I am very sorry for the inconvenience and greatly appreciate your understanding. On a separate and unrelated note, I am proud to announce that our annual water quality reports (formally known as the consumer confidence reports) will be published July 1. These reports are required by Navy Policy Environmental Protection Agency regulations and include general information to educate our community about our water sources, treatment processes, standard requirements, and other details to assure you that
your water is fit for human consumption. They include calendar year 2018 monitoring data from each of our water systems including NAS I, NAS II, Marinai, and Niscemi. These reports are available on the official NAS Sigonella web site in both English and Italian. The reports can be accessed after July 1 via the following link: http://cnic.navy.mil/ regions/cnreurafswa/ installations/nas_sigonella/om/ environmental_support.html Again, thank you for your continued support and patience with the gate construction projects. Ultimately, the delivery of both improved entry control facilities this year will better serve and protect all Sigonella personnel.
June 28, 2019
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Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding Barracks A/C:
Several comments have been submitted regarding A/C in the NAS I and NAS II barracks. Some have identified that the A/C was not operational, and others have raised issue with the ability of the A/C to adequately cool their rooms.
Response:
Thank you to everyone who has spoken up about A/C issues in the barracks. This is currently my #1 priority maintenance issue. Summer has arrived in full force, and I understand how important having functional A/C is to the health and morale of our unaccompanied service members living in the barracks. I know that many in the barracks, especially on NAS I, are dealing with uncomfortable temperatures in their rooms. Please know that I am personally committed to promptly tracking and repairing the issues and following up until they are resolved. As a general status update, the A/C in all barracks has been turned on as of May 29. In the NAS I barracks, issues with the A/C chiller units have been identified, and Public Works is working on a long term solution to the equipment problem. In the meantime, PW has been able to employ a solution to temporarily run A/C from 20000600, helping to cool temperatures in the barracks at night. In the NAS II barracks, PW has identified several rooms that have isolated A/C issues, and is working to resolve those. For all barracks, the thermostats are set to have A/C engage for temperatures above 24-24.5 degrees Celsius (approximately 75-76 degrees Fahrenheit). The housing department has posted flyers in the barracks that show residents how to properly use the HVAC controls in their individual rooms. If you feel that
your room temperature is warmer than it should be, please report it. As a reminder, the quickest way to resolve any barracks issue is by reporting it immediately via proper channels. If the problem arises after hours, contact your resident advisor or duty complex manager. During business hours, please report any issues to your building manager. A full list of contacts is provided below. Business hours: NAS I building managers: DSN 624-3162/3324 or COMM 095-86-3162/3324 NAS II building managers: DSN 624-8689/8690 or COMM 095-86-8689/8690 After hours/weekends: Duty complex manager: 335-578-5520 NAS I duty RA: 335-193-8893
Comment Regarding Security Escort Policy:
There seems to be no written guidance or standard operating procedure for how to go about requesting unescorted access to foreign nationals to NAS I/NAS II who work for our other U.S. European bases. There are continual differences in verbal direction with no concrete protocol. This results in random denials or misinformation at each step. This causes a last-minute scramble which results in frantic attempts to smooth things over or “make it work.” The leadership seems to be unaware that this difficulty occurs, when many of the tenant commands here have regional functions and are in need of bringing others in from around theater. Is there a way to come up with an actual SOP for this? The process is painful and littered with holes and misinformation.
Response:
Thank you for contacting me "ICE" cont’d on Page 11
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 GMSN Rashond Grant rashond.grant@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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Name: GMSN Rashond Grant Department: Public Affairs Office Hometown: Oakland, Calif.
Not everyone’s first couple of years in the Navy work out they way they want it to. It’s common for people to join the military thinking they will be doing one job and then end up doing something completely different. For Gunner’s Mate Seaman Rashond Grant, that is exactly what happened. He started out his career wanting to become a Hospital Corpsman but ended up becoming a Gunner’s Mate. For his first duty station, he received orders to Naval Air Station Sigonella armory, but was instead slotted to the base public affairs office due to understaffing. Upon arriving, he had a short period of time to learn the basics of the Mass Communication Specialist rate, what other MCs go to school for six months to learn. The purpose of the public affairs office is to oversee the dissemination of command information through a variety of mediums, coordinate community relations projects,
facilitate base tours, and manages media interests. The office also produces this bi-weekly digital magazine, The Signature. After learning photography and editing software programs as quickly as possible to help the office during a period of significant transition, his positive attitude and willingness to learn resulted in him being nominated by his chain of command for Sailor in the Spotlight. “The work days can get pretty busy,” said Grant. “Mondays and Thursdays I basically spend the first half of the day working on the all hands e-mails. Every Friday I run the photo studio for everyone stationed at NAS Sigonella. I also have to help out with the normal scheduled projects and event coverage we have going on.” Along with helping out with the regular work flow of the shop, Grant is also the acting training petty
officer, hands out the forms for photo passes and other collateral duties, all while stay on top of his general military training for his actual job as a gunner’s mate. Most people stationed here in Sicily have their favorite thing that they enjoy about the island. “I have traveled to a couple of different places here on island,” said Grant. “My favorite thing to do here is just checking out the different beaches, even though they are a little bit more salty than back home.” Grant, like many others, was looking for a change when he enlisted in the Navy. “I joined the Navy basically because I was searching for some direction in my life,” said Grant. “I was basically just couch surfing and didn’t really know what I wanted out of life. So I decided to give the Navy a shot, to look for some sort of structure.”
June 28, 2019
Sigonella Student Awarded DoDEA Female Athlete of the Year By Janine Scianna NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
Jessica Jacobs, a senior last year at Sigonella Middle/High School, was recently announced as the DoDEA-Europe Female Athlete of the Year. This is the third year in a row that a Sigonella student has been recognized for this award. Averi Chandler won the award last year, and her sister, Kisiah Chandler, won two years ago. Jacobs is a three-sport standout at Sigonella on the girls’ volleyball, basketball, and softball teams. In volleyball, she boasted a 95% serve percentage and 116 aces, as well as being named Division III tournament MVP. In basketball, she was team captain. She led the team in steals and averaged 13 points, seven rebounds, and two assists
per game. In softball, she also led the team as captain. She had an incredible season batting average of .660, adding 7 home runs and 37 runs batted in. Almost unheard of, she didn’t have a single strikeout. As a pitcher, she had a 9-2 record and allowed on average only 2.07
runs per game. For all three sports, she was honored with being selected to the ceremonial All-Europe first teams. Michelle Chandler, athletic director at Sigonella Middle/High School, spoke about how rare of an athlete Jacobs has been for Sigonella. “She is one of the premier, standout athletes in Europe and her accolades have been proven,” said Chandler. “She has a mental and physical toughness, with a calm demeanor that has only intensified over her high school years.” Equally as important was her classroom performance. Jacobs earned a minimum of a 4.0 GPA in each quarter of her senior year. “She is a superb example of what all student athletes should strive to be,” added Chandler.
Graduates await conferral of their degrees U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Karl Schonberg Photos by Randy Latimer
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U.S. NAVY PATROL SQUADRON 9 CH By Lt. j.g. John Tersoni Patrol Squadron 9
The “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron 9 (VP-9) conducted its 70th change of command ceremony June 21, when Cmdr. Brian Schneider, the former executive officer of VP-9, relieved Cmdr. Hamish Kirkland of command at Naval Air Station Sigonella. Joined by guest speaker Capt. William Pennington, Commander, Task Force 67, a multitude of friends, family and distinguished guests partook in the ceremony. Kirkland leaves behind a historic legacy. Under his command, VP-9 upheld its record of over 40 years and 226,000 mishap free flight hours and maintained the highest level of combat readiness following airframe transition from the P-3C Orion. VP-9 established itself as an elite Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force (MPRF) asset on the squadron’s maiden P-8A Poseidon deployment, developing new tactics and procedures aimed at maximizing the full potential of the weapons system, and conducting the first live AGM-84 Harpoon flights ever performed on the P-8A aircraft in the Sixth Fleet Area of Responsibility. Vowing to continue providing successful leadership for the squadron throughout deployment, Schneider assumed command of VP-9 and was grateful for the tenacity and expertise of his predecessor. “Commander Kirkland has left me with a combat effective squadron ready to face any threat anywhere,” said Schneider. “Together we have
brought the squadron through the Inter-deployment Readiness Cycle (IDRC) and successfully onto VP9’s inaugural P-8A deployment.” A career naval aviator, Schneider’s experience includes maritime patrol and reconnaissance tours, staff tours, an instructor tour, a department head tour, and a tour aboard the USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77). He has completed five maritime patrol overseas deployments to support operations in 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th Fleets. In May 2018, Schneider reported to VP-9 as executive officer. In his parting words, Kirkland offered his Sailors one final thought. “I am extremely proud of the Golden Eagles and all that we have accomplished over the past two years,” said Kirkland. “I leave knowing you will continue to raise the bar, set records, make history, and maintain the Golden Eagle values of excellence, family, and respect.” VP-9 operates the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft capable of conducting Anti-submarine Warfare, Maritime Domain Awareness, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, Anti-Surface Warfare, and searchand-rescue missions. The squadron is forward deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility and is currently assigned to Commander, Task Force 67, responsible for tactical control of deployed maritime patrol and reconnaissance forces throughout the European and African areas of responsibility.
Cmdr. Hamish Kirkland gives exits remar of command of Patrol Squadron 9 deploye (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of VP-9)
June 28, 2019
HANGES COMMAND
rks after being relieved ed to NAS Sigonella.
Cmdr. Brian Schneider gives remarks upon assumption of command of Patrol Squadron 9 deployed to NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of VP-9)
Cmdr. Brian Schneider exits through side boys after assumption of command of Patrol Squadron 9 deployed to NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of VP-9)
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The Signature
Attendees bow their he Reconnaissance Squad (U.S. Navy photo by Lt.
Lt. Col. Del Rivera gives remarks after being relieved of command of the 7th Reconnaissance Squadron at NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Karl Schonberg)
Lt. Col. Rolly Cooper assumes command Reconnaissance Squadron at NAS Sigone (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Karl Schonberg)
June 28, 2019
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7TH RECONNAISSANCE AIR FORCE SQUADRON CHANGES COMMAND
eads in prayer at the start of the 7th dron change of command ceremony. . Karl Schonberg)
of the 7th ella.
By Capt. Jocelyn Flores 7th Reconnaissance Squadron
In the RQ-4 hangar on the Naval Air Station Sigonella flight line, the 7th Reconnaissance Squadron conducted a change of command ceremony June 14. Lt. Col. Rolly Cooper relieved Lt. Col. Delbert Rivera as the squadron commander of the squadron’s self-proclaimed “Titans of the Med.” Col. Anthony Bellione, 69th Reconnaissance group commander, served as the keynote speaker and Chief Master Sgt. Tadd Goehring, the group chief, attended from Grand Forks, North Dakota to represent the squadron’s geographically separated unit. The ceremony marked the end to Rivera’s command as he passed the guidon flag to Bellione, who then presented the flag to Cooper. Bellione recognized Rivera for his temperate leadership during his challenging tenure. Rivera remarked on the squadron’s resiliency during challenging times and its progressive trajectory. While in command of the 7th RS, the squadron stood up a new armory, established an annual National Police Week, and constructed a redundant network communication system for U.S. military assets in the European Command area of responsibility. Cooper, having spent his last two years serving as the squadron’s director of operations, did not
have to move far to take command. Cooper’s aviation background extends back to his time as a senior navigator in the EC-130H. He has extensive experience in Southwest Asia, Afghanistan, and Africa, as well as peacetime operations in all six geographic combatant commands. In his remarks, Cooper charged his 150 active duty Airmen and 50 civilians to implement the change that they want to see in the squadron, and to continue moving forward in the never-ending pursuit of excellence. “Over the next two years, NATO and the U.S. Navy will be looking to us at the 7th RS for how to properly operate RQ-4 variants in this hemisphere,” said Cooper. “The journey will be hard and challenging, and marked with obstacles that probably shouldn’t be there. But the rewards will be worth it.” The 7th RS plans and executes worldwide, high-altitude combat surveillance and reconnaissance missions including peacetime intelligence gathering, contingency operations and conventional warfare. Operating the RQ-4B Global Hawk Remotely Piloted Aircraft, the Titans provide signals intelligence and near real-time imagery intelligence to fulfill operational requirements generated by the Joint Chiefs of Staff in support of the Secretary of Defense and unified commanders.
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The Signature
Saint Rosalia Festival Returns to Palermo on July 14 By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
The Festino di Santa Rosalia has such immense popularity that an expression has developed to indicate how commonplace knowledge of it is. Translated as “Don’t tell me what everybody already knows” the Sicilian idiom “Nun mi cuntari li tri ghiorna d’u fistinu” illustrates the festival’s prominence. Patrick Brydone, a Scottish traveler who toured southern Italy in the 18th century, recorded one of the most memorable accounts of the Saint Rosalia Festival. In his 1773 book “A Tour though Sicily and Malta,” he pens a vivid account of the chariot’s parade: “The triumphal chariot was preceded by a party of men on horseback, with trumpets and drums, and by all the high officials of the city in full regalia. The ‘machine’ is truly enormous: it measures seventy feet in length, thirty in width, and over eighty in height; as it passes through the streets, it towers above Palermo’s tallest houses. The lower part looks like a Roman galley, but it widens towards the upper part. The front part is broader and shaped like an oval amphitheater, with seats all around: this is the great orchestra, thronged with musicians in several rows, one above the other. At the back of the orchestra rises a great cupola, supported by six Corinthian columns and adorned with numerous figures of saints and angels, with a gigantic silver statue of Santa Rosalia on the top.” Today, thanks to modern technology, the festival is even more spectacular than it used to be in the past. This year, the festino celebrates its 395rd anniversary. The use of the word “festino” which means “little festival” is ironic, since the festival is one of
On the evening of July 14, the entire community of Palermo will come together to celebrate its biggest event of the year, the “Festino di Santa Rosalia” (Little Saint Rosalia Festival). The festival was first held in 1625 to honor the saint who was believed to free the population from a terrible plague epidemic which killed 130,000 people. It is a must-see festival blending religion and Sicilian folklore which features a spectacular evening parade in the city center, fireworks, street performances, entertainment for children and traditional Palermo food. (Photo by Typicalsicily.it)
the oldest and most spectacular in the entire Mediterranean area During the festival, which runs from July 10 through 14, the city turns into a vivid stage featuring parades, concerts, shows, fireworks, food stalls and religious processions. Thousands of local residents, tourists, and Sicilian immigrants return to the island to celebrate the beloved patron saint with their relatives and friends. The main city squares will be at the center of the celebrations and will host rock and folklore music, theatrical performances, and entertainment for children.
Life of Saint Rosalia
Saint Rosalia, who is also affectionately called “Santuzza” or “little saint,” was the daughter of a noble family from northeastern Sicily and a descendant of
Charlemagne. She lived in the second half of the twelfth century. According to tradition, she left home when she was still a young woman to live as a hermit. She hid in a cave of Mount Quisquinia near Bivona and later in another of Monte Pellegrino near Palermo. She lived in the latter until she died and she was also buried there. In 1624, her remains were discovered and brought to the cathedral of Palermo. The devotion that palermitani (Palermo’s townspeople) have for Santa Rosalia dates back to 1624. Rosalia is believed to have averted a terrible epidemic of plague that broke out in Palermo. According to tradition, even though the palermitani repeatedly invoked the four city patron saints "ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 11
June 28, 2019
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Memo From New Acting Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper
It is the honor and privilege of a lifetime to serve alongside you as the Acting Secretary of Defense. Since rejoining the Department nearly two years ago as the Secretary of the Army, my confidence in the incredible skill, professionalism, and commitment of our military and civilian workforce has grown even stronger. As we continue to advance the Nation?s security, let me reaffirm our path forward. The National Defense Strategy remains our guiding document and everything we do should support its stated objectives. The Department’s priorities remain unchanged. We will continue to expand the competitive space through three mutually reinforcing lines of effort:
Build a More Lethal Force
The surest way to deter adversary aggression is to fully prepare for war. We must continue to build readiness to fight tonight should the Nation call, while modernizing key capabilities for future conflict.
Strengthen Alliances and Attract New Partners
Our Allies and Partners play an essential role in helping us deter conflict and defend freedom
around the world. Through continued engagement, we will grow these relationships and deepen our interoperability.
Reform the Department for Greater Performance and Affordability
Reform is the means by which we free up time, money, and manpower to reinvest into our top priorities. Look for smarter, more effective ways to do business, and empower your teams to innovate and take prudent risk where necessary. Having previously served in the Regular Army, National Guard, and Reserve, I understand well the sacrifices our Service Members, Civilians, and their Families make to protect this great country. This is why am committed to taking care of Families and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. Lastly, I place great importance on a commitment by all especially Leaders to those values and behaviors that represent the best of the military profession and mark the character and integrity of the Armed Forces that the American people admire. I am proud of the great work our
Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Civilians do each and every day around the world. Stay focused on your mission, remain steadfast in your pursuit of excellence, and always do the right thing. Together, we will remain the most ready and capable military force in the world, which is what our Nation expects and deserves. [Signed] Mark T. Esper
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SIGONELLA GALLEY RECOGNIZED AS “BEST OF THE BEST”
Photos courtesy of National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation By CSC Marco “Blu” Guevarra NAS Sigonella Galley
For the second year in a row, Naval Air Station Sigonella’s galley, Ristorante Bella Etna, was once again selected as the FY 2019 Captain Edward F. Ney winner for the best Small Galley Ashore. To receive the award in back-to-back years is almost unheard of, and is a testament to the commitment to quality and service that galley leadership has. “To do it once is something, but to do it twice says a lot about this crew’s consistency and dedication,” said Culinary Specialist Chief Marco Guevarra the Galley’s Leading Culinary Specialist. To accept this prestigious award, a delegation of active duty and local national galley employees traveled to Chicago for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation ceremony on May 17. For many of them, it was a once in a lifetime opportunity
to be recognized for dedicated culinary work over their careers. The Captain Edward F. Ney Memorial Award Program was established in 1958 by the Secretary of the Navy to recognize afloat and ashore general messes that demonstrate excellence in food service. Named in honor of the late Capt. Edward Francis Ney, Supply Corps, United States Navy, the Ney Memorial Awards Program represents the pinnacle of Navy food service success. It promotes friendly competition among units, instills pride in accomplishment, and spreads esprit de corps throughout the Navy. Every year, the Navy awards the “Best of the Best” in each foodservice facility category after a minimum of three rigorous inspections and one assessment before being determined as the category winner. “Nothing is more satisfying than being a part of this winning team and representing NAS Sigonella
Navywide,” added Command Master Chief Nancy Estrada. “The leadership, expertise and hard work of Mr. Domenico Strano, Mr. Agatino Grasso, Mr. Antonino Schiliro, Mr. Carmelo Recupero, Mr. Luca Mastronardo, and Mr. Angelo Viglianesi truly left an indelible mark and a legacy to Sigonellans. It is only right to celebrate and recognize our people –our treasure. Congratulations once again team, Famiglia Bella Etna.”
June 28, 2019
the installation that created them. This means that local nationals from other regarding the access control policy installations in our region do not for citizens of countries other than automatically have unescorted access the U.S. and Italy for NAS Sigonella. on NAS Sigonella and vice versa. That First, I’d like to mention that we being said, there are mechanisms in have a very diverse base population place to grant unescorted access. with diverse access needs that The CNIC instruction requires make access protocol extremely a certain level of vetting to include complicated. We have active duty a criminal history check, (referred and reservist military, civilians, to as a “Penale” in Italy), along contractors, dependents, and visitors with other checks that the Security not only from the U.S., but from Department conducts. Background Italy and other NATO nations. checks from countries other than But we do, in fact, have an Italy must be translated by reputable established process for the scenario source such as an Embassy. you describe which allows foreign For NAS II access, the Italian nationals with access to other Air Force Commander has the European bases to gain unescorted authority to grant unescorted access to NAS Sigonella. In access. The Italian Air Force complicated scenarios like this one, requests 30 to 45 days lead time early communication with my Security to conduct their checks. Department is the key to success. To avoid the confusion and For NAS I access, I have the scrambling you reference above, authority to grant unescorted access. I cannot stress how important it Chapter 12 of the Commander, Navy is to have Security involved early Installation Command Instruction on in the planning process. Please 5530.14A is the authoritative reach out to the Physical Security guidance on access control, which Officer, Mr. Lew Biddlecome, at states that locally-generated the Pass & ID Office for any future identification cards are only valid on inquiries involving base access. "ICE" cont’d from Page 3
"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 8
(Cristina, Ninfa, Oliva and Agata) against the terrible disease, the plague still spread at a horrifying rate. According to legend, a soap manufacturer named Vincenzo Banelli, whose wife died because of the epidemic, urged the Palermo cardinal to hold a procession featuring the relics of Saint Rosalia throughout the city. Tradition holds that Santa Rosalia appeared in a vision to Banelli, instructing him that if her earthly remains were taken in procession throughout the city, the plague would cease. Thus, on July 14, 1624, a magnificent procession was held in Palermo featuring the saint’s relics placed in a silver case of crimson velvet. She was accompanied by the Royal Council, the Senate, illustrious citizens, and the clergy. By the end of the procession, the miracle
was complete and the plague was over. Every year since then, the Palermo community has been celebrating with true devotion its new patron saint.
Festival Schedule
The first three days of the festival are preparation for the final day, July 14, which is the highlight. In the evening, a spectacular parade features the “Carro Trionfale” (triumphal chariot), a spectacular Baroque-styled construction shaped like a ship which is built new every year by artists. The Carro Trionfale leaves from the cathedral, crosses piazza Vigliena (a breathtaking octagonal square where the four oldest districts of the city intersect in one point), and reaches the Foro Italico area. This year, ten inmates of the Palermo Ucciardone prison have volunteered to build the chariot,
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Comment Regarding Postal Service:
I would like to take a minute to appreciate how professional and helpful SN Tucker was. There was a full line of people waiting to pick up mail from the post office and it seemed like he was the only one helping everyone. As the line got shorter he apologized to everyone for how long the wait was and you could tell he was trying his best to help everyone as best as he could. You can tell that he truly cares about his job, performance, and professionalism.
Response:
Thank you for taking a moment to highlight your positive customer service experience at the post office. I will make sure to pass along your comments to SN Tucker. Positive feedback like yours helps us constantly improve our customer service by letting us know what we are doing correctly and what we can continue to improve on. For future comments or concerns, feel free to contact Fleet Mail Center Postal Officer, Ajaka Chesterfield, at DSN 624-5558 / COMM: 095-86-5558. joining forces with local art students and other volunteers. After the parade, a spectacular fireworks show is performed in the seafront area around midnight. During the festival, street vendors and restaurants sell traditional Palermo food including the following specialties: “la pasta con le sarde” (pasta with sardines); “i babbaluci” (snails boiled with parsley and garlic); “lo sfincione” (focaccia topped with onions, tomato, salted anchovies, oregano, cheese and breadcrumbs); “il polpo bollito” (boiled octopus); “calia e simenza” (crunchy chickpeas and pumpkin seeds); “la pannocchia bollita” (corn on the cob) and “anguria” (watermelon). For more information and detailed schedules visit https:// www.comune.palermo.it.
R E D , W H I T E & B O O M F R E Q U E N T LY A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S
Q: As a base employee, how many guests can I bring to Red, White, and Boom? A: All adult U.S. ID card holders are allowed to sponsor up to five (5) guests who do not have Department of Defense (DOD) Identification. In addition, base employees (both U.S. and Local National) are also extended authorization to sponsor up to five (5) guests who do not have DOD Identification. Sponsors should personally know the guests they are bringing to the Red, White, and Boom event. Base employees should never agree to sponsor people they don't know well.
Q: Will base shuttle services continue to run between base locations? A: Yes. The shuttle will run between 1530 and 2330. The shuttle will pick-up and drop-off riders at NAS I in the loop near the DODDS School; at NAS II in front of the Flight Line Clinic; and at Marinai at the first bus stop inside of the main gate near the Youth Center.
Q: How do I gain access to the base? A: DOD cardholders may use the Main Gate. Guests and their sponsors must enter via the Annex Gate beginning at 1700 and bring valid photo identification. Any guest who does not provide photo identification will not be allowed access to the event.
SECURITY: WHAT CAN I BRING? Q: What kind of bags will are allowed on base? A: Only purses and diaper bags are authorized. They cannot exceed dimensions of 12”x 6”x 12” (30cm x 15cm x 30cm). No exceptions. Coolers and backpacks are not authorized. All authorized bags will be screened. Strollers will be allowed for caretakers of small children after screening.
Q: Do base employees have to stay with their sponsored guests during the event? A: Yes. Sponsors, both U.S. and local nationals, must always accompany their guest. Sponsors are responsible for the conduct and whereabouts of their guests. Q: Will there be a guest list so my guests can access the base without their sponsor? A: No. Guests must be accompanied by their sponsor at the Annex Gate. If the sponsor is not present, guests will be turned away. We strongly encourage sponsors to carpool with their guests to streamline gate access. If this is not possible, sponsors should pre-plan a designated meeting place away from the Annex Gate.
Q: Anything else I should know about getting to the event? A: Yes. Please use caution while transiting to and from NAS I as there will be increased traffic outside the installation.
Q: Are there any restricted items? A: The following items are STRICTLY PROHIBITED from being brought onto the base: pets, glass bottles, containers, backpacks, and contraband. Q: What items are considered contraband? A: Knives of any size (including box cutters and sharp objects), BB Guns (Air Soft), sling shots, fireworks of any kind, illegal drugs, and any other items the CO deems as contraband. Guests must use common sense. If the item presents a potential threat to the base, do not attempt to bring it to the event.
PARKING AND TRANSPORTATION Q: Will shuttles be operating between the bases during the event? A: Yes. Shuttles will continue to operate and will be running frequently between NAS I, NAS II, and Marinai. For schedules, please visit your local bus stop. Since parking will be limited on NAS I, shuttle use is highly encouraged.
ALCOHOL AND SMOKING Q: Will alcohol be served? A: Yes. No outside drinks will be permitted in the festival area. Beer and/or alcohol that is purchased at the NEX will not be allowed at the event site. Also, Breathalyzers will be administered to those driving a vehicle. Anyone who plans to drive should abstain from consuming alcohol. Legal action will be taken against those who drive and have exceeded the legal limit of alcohol. Sponsors, both U.S. and local nationals, will be held responsible for the conduct of their guests.
Q: Will parking be provided inside the base? A: Only DoD ID card holders will be permitted to park on base via the Main Gate.
Q: Is smoking allowed at the event? A: Yes, but limited to one designated area, which will be identified on the event map.
Q: When will the parking lots on NAS I secure in preparation for Red, White and Boom? A: The following is a list of NAS I parking lot closure dates and times in preparation for the event. Vehicles parked in secured locations after the times listed above will be towed at the owner’s expense. These areas will be secured until after the event has concluded and the parking lots have been cleaned. - Fitness Center/Connections Parking Lot: 29 June at 2300 5 July at 1800 o help those who rely on parking that will be closed during event preparations, reserved parking on NAS I will be temporarily available to all.
MISCELLANEOUS Q: Will restrooms be available at the celebration? A: Yes. Locations will be identified on the event map.
Q: Where can guests find event parking outside the base? A: For a small fee, business owners directly across from the NAS I Main Entrance have agreed to provide parking in their lots. Parking on SS-192, the street that runs in front of the NAS 1 installation, is prohibited.
Q: Will NEX and Commissary hours stay the same during the event? A: Yes. The NEX and Commissary will retain normal business hours during the event. Anyone wanting to enter the NEX or Commissary will need to provide a valid ID. Beer and/or alcohol that is purchased at the NEX will not be allowed at the event site. Q: What time will the fireworks display happen? A: The fireworks display is scheduled to begin at 9:30pm. The exact time may fluctuate due to the fact that we take direction from the Catania airport and may have to slightly alter the time due to flight schedules. Announcements will be made during the event if the time is adjusted. For more event information, please visit www.navymwrsigonella.com or call 624-4941 (+39-095-56-4941).
