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MARCH 2, 2018

Vol. 35 No. 8

Active Duty Fund Drive Kicks Off in Sigonella

SIGONELLA, Sicily (February 23, 2018) – The Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD) Committee, along with Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, and Command Master Chief Nancy Estrada, kick-off the start of the 2018 ADFD Campaign onboard NAS Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)

by MC2 Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – For many, spring symbolizes a season of renewal.

For service members, spring has also become synonymous with the Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD) in support of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS).

The ADFD is held annually during the month of March to generate awareness of the programs and services offered by the NMCRS and to provide an opportunity for Sailors, Marines and civilians to donate.

The Sigonella community has long been a generous supporter of the ADFD as evidenced by its designation as the highest across the fleet and force in per capita donations. On average, every active duty service member on Sigonella donated $61. But many who give to the ADFD may not be aware of the impact their contribution can make.

The NMCRS provides need-based financial assistance in the form of interest-free loans. Last year, the NMCRS provided $44.8 million in financial assistance to active duty service members and retirees. Locally, the NMCRS Sigonella provided $177,000 in assistance,

helping more than 100 clients during times of need.

“You can donate $10 a month and have a significant impact on the life of your fellow Sailors and Marines,” said Shelley Marshall, Vice President and Chief Development and Communications Officer for the NMCRS. “In the aggregate of $120 per year, your donation might buy a new tire for someone, or cover the cost of a night in a hotel during emergency leave, or enable a Sailor to buy groceries when they otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford it.”

Marshall feels a personal connection to the NMCRS, having retired from the Navy after 26 years of service, stating “During my career it was about taking care of Sailors and Marines as a Naval officer and now this is a way to continue to serve those who wear the uniform. I like being able to honor their service and take care of their families, enabling them to focus on the mission.”

In addition to financial assistance, the NMCRS operates the base thrift store and teaches a Budget for Baby workshop every third Wednesday of the month from 12:30 – 1:30 at the base library. The NMCRS relies on its team of roughly 30 volunteers to keep the thrift store running, facilitate classes and even hand-

knit baby blankets.

The services provided by the NMCRS are not limited to Sailors and Marines.

Airmen and Soldiers can also receive assistance at the Sigonella office.

“Our door is open to all service members. We will connect with their aid societies and ensure that they get the assistance they need,” explained Brittany Sadler, NMCRS director.

The 2018 ADFD kicked off on Friday, Feb. 23, with a raffle and cake cutting, and is followed by a month filled with activities to help raise money toward this year’s goal of over $100,000 for NAS Sigonella or the worldwide goal of $12.5 million. So far, ADFD has raised $7,323 toward that goal.

“If you do the math, it’s only $5 a month, or $2.50 a paycheck, in order to donate $60 for the year. You’re contributing and doing your part to be the highest per capita in the world, just by donating $2.50 a paycheck,” said Lt. Derek Roncaioli, NAS Sigonella ADFD Chairman. “If you don’t want to fundraise, wash cars, or sell baked goods: give whatever you can afford and be proud that you’re helping a great cause.”

To keep updated on all of the current ADFD events, follow the Sigonella Active Duty Fund Drive Facebook page.

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Direct Line

Lt. Derek Roncaioli, Active Duty Fund Drive Chairman Happy Friday Sigonella, It is that time of year again…no not the Winter Olympics, not March Madness, not even baseball spring training, it is the time of year for Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD). I have the distinct pleasure of leading this year’s fund drive for Sigonella and we have an exciting month of March planned!

For those of you that are not familiar, the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) is a global non-profit, volunteer service that provides financial, educational, and other assistance to active duty and retired members of the Navy and Marine Corps and their eligible family members when in need. Branches are located on Navy and Marine Corps installations around the world and the services they provide include financial assistance and counseling, quick assist loans, education assistance, health

education and post combat support, budget for baby classes, emergency travel, disaster relief, and thrift shops.

The leadership for this outstanding organization consist of top Navy and Marine Corps leaders from retired Admirals and Generals to retired Chiefs as well as spouses that have all realized the impact that NMCRS has made on sailors, marines, and their families. Additionally, the Chairman of this year’s Board of Directors is CNO, Admiral John Richardson and he has placed significant emphasis placed on this year’s fund drive to make up for the budget shortcomings.

To give you an idea, the Secretary of the Navy set the ADFD goal to raise $12.5M last year and came up short only raising $10.9M. This may not seem like much, but when the organization provided $45M in assistance during 2017 alone, some

simple math will reveal that this budget doesn’t balance. Last year, Sigonella was the world leader for per capita donations at $61.00 per active duty service member and a total of $93,936.54 raised for the NMCRS. This is an outstanding accomplishment, however Sigonella also provided $177,170.32 in assistance from their location on NAS I. Again you see the budget doesn’t balance, but the one thing that remains true is that the Sailors in need of assistance are getting help from NMCRS. As we move forward, the focus for this year’s fund drive is; 1. Communication: people should know about events (what, where, when) and make the decision to contribute or choose not to. 2. Meaningful Contact: Command Representatives need to discuss with each active duty member of their command the “why” behind the fund drive. 3. Fundraise:

If you cannot afford to make a donation, you can afford to sacrifice one day a week or one weekend a month to fundraise. Each person reading this article is or will be a leader of Sailors/Marines and when problems "DIRECT LINE" cont’d on Page 4

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 “Bravo Zulu for Movie Theater”:

A special thanks to Darryl Chandler and his team at the movie theaters from the Middle High School Parent Teacher Student Organization. They went above and beyond to host a Middle School movie/literary event. No doubt it was their impressive professionalism; warm courtesy and willingness to accommodate our needs that helped make this experience one the students won’t forget. A huge round of applause!

Sincerely, The Sigonella Middle High School PTSO

Response:

Thank you for your positive feedback and praise for Darryl Chandler and the MWR Midtown 2 Theater team. I am pleased to hear that your experience was professional, courteous and accommodating. Our team looks forward to your continued patronage of MWR facilities and programs.

Comment regarding “Bravo Zulu for MVRO”:

I recently made numerous trips to MVRO and each and every time the staff was incredibly courteous and helpful. I did not have scheduled appointments and both times I went in they were fairly busy and appeared to be very under staffed. They efficiently worked through their customers and got me in and taken care of in minimal time. I understand the frustrations of having to complete all the different items to get your car registered and ensure paperwork is updated; however, the staff has always gone out of their way to help me and explain the processes. I do not think they get the credit they deserve.

Response:

Thank you for your comment regarding your pleasant experience with the

Motor Vehicle Registration Office (MVRO). MVRO’s primary mission is to service the NAS Sigonella community and tenant commands in various aspects of vehicle registration, customs, and AFI translations. I take pride in providing quality customer service and am elated to hear of your positive experiences.

With the dramatic increases in personnel since 2013, MVRO averages close to 70 appointments and walk-ins a day. To drive that point home, MVRO registered 1,183 vehicles last year as opposed to 348 in 2014. With minimal staff onboard to service US and NATO members, it is great to that the Sailors and civilians providing services to the community are doing so in a highly professional and courteous manner. Thank you again for taking the time to send positive feedback on your experiences at MVRO. For any further questions or concerns, please contact the Security Officer, LCDR Richmond at 624-6036.

Comment regarding “Bravo Zulu for PSD”:

I wanted to take a moment and recognize Ms. Amy Parker from PSD for her outstanding customer service and professionalism in assisting the widow of a Navy Chief residing in Catania. Amy went above and beyond by contacting DFAS in Virginia to identify the required documents to help the widow renew her dependent ID card now that her spouse is no longer alive to sponsor her. The widow’s family is truly grateful.

Sincerely, Gene Dando, CPO Ret.

Response:

Mr. Dando, Thank you for taking the time to recognize the outstanding customer service and professionalism provided by Ms. Parker. Ms. Parker is an outstanding member of the the PSD team and I will be sure to pass along your

"ICE" continued on Page 3

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA 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 Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@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

"ICE" continued from Page 2 high praise and appreciation. On behalf of PSD Sigonella, please pass on our condolences to the family and if we can do anything further to assist you and/or the spouse do not hesitate to ask.

Comment regarding “MWR Tour”: We signed up for the fishing trip that was for today. It was supposed to leave Marinai at 0745. We were there at 0744 and waited 30 minutes. So we asked the sentry at the gate and they said the bus left around 0730. My receipt specifically says the bus would leave at 0745. We did a ton of ITT trips in Rota Spain and never had this issue. So far in the 3 weeks we have been here we had our family sledding trip cancelled and this. UNSAT. Sincerely, Jeff Hyland

Response:

Thank you for your feedback regarding some of our programs. MWR, and more specifically the Community Recreation department, owes you an apology for the experience you and your family encountered. This is not acceptable practice and you have a right to be frustrated with how this was handled. You mentioned that you believe the bus departed without you and your family. What actually occurred was the trip was cancelled due to lack of interest and you were never

notified. We occasionally have to cancel trips due to lack of interest or weather related causes but it is a requirement that upon cancellation of any of our Community Recreation Trips or Tours, that we notify all of our registered patrons by phone and email. In this case, neither happened and was a complete lack of communication and attention to detail. We are grateful for all of our customers and want to ensure that each and everyone has a pleasant experience every time they participate in one of our trips. We hope that we can earn your trust again and that you will choose to register for future trips with the Community Recreation program.

Regarding the sledding trip that was cancelled, unfortunately for some of our winter trips, we are at the mercy of the quantity of snow on Mt Etna. Our trips and tours are planned months in advance with the possibility that things out of our control may occur, whether it be a tourist attraction that undergoes renovation suddenly, a restaurant closes for a period of time, or in his case, the amount of snow on Mt. Etna is not enough to meet the minimal requirements in order to do certain activities. In this particular case, there was a slight possibility of snow on the mountain all weekend which is why we waited so long before canceling the trip.

For more information or additional questions about the Community Recreation Program please contact the Community Recreation Manager, Tom Kubalewski, at 624-4488 or Thomas.kubalewski@eu.navy.mil

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 factorof 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 proceeding 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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"DIRECT LINE" continued from Page 2 come up NMCRS is the first organization willing to help get Sailors out of financial or personal situations. Supporting the organization now will help you be a better leader in the future.

Get excited because this is Sigonella’s year to show the region and the Navy how much we care about supporting each other!

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Postal and You!

By Tia Nichole McMillen Public Affairs Officer

The Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella is in charge of all postal operations at NAS 1 and NAS 2. Many of you are familiar with the postal process and are excited to hear, “You’ve got mail!”

To keep the process running smoothly, there are a few things you should remember: The Military Postal System (MPS) is for personal use and the use of sponsored family members only. Use of the MPS to conduct a business or act on behalf of others not entitled to privileges is strictly prohibited.

Goods received duty free and/or tax free through the MPS may not be transferred to any person not authorized to use MPS. Italian customs officials may conduct random, occasional customs inspections at U.S. military mail facilities. All goods are subject to customs inspection.

Italian Law prohibits the shipment & receipt of certain items through the mail. Below are some of the more common items customs authorities are concerned with and will confiscate and/or destroy.

Prohibited Items: Hazardous material: A hazardous material is any article or substance capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, or property during transportation. This includes articles such as corrosives, flammable or combustible items, poison, and radioactive material.

Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and controlled substances: These items include intoxicating liquids and alcohol, tobacco and tobacco products, illegal drugs, and drug paraphernalia.

Weapons: Illegal shipment of weapons, all types of firearms, and their spare parts through the mail will result in the initiation of criminal proceedings and seizures of the illegal items or firearms. These include weapons parts, ammunition, imitation arms, paint ball guns, replica weapons, and inert weapons.

Perishable items and foodstuffs: These items include fruits, vegetables, plants and soil, salted, smoked, dried, or canned meats. Please note that some items, such as olive oil, may be shipped but must be packed in a particular way.

Please ask the post office staff for information on shipping such items.

Coffee and spices: These items include roasted or ground coffee; nutmeg, vanilla, salt, mineral salt, and saffron; saccharin and saccharin products.

Stolen and counterfeit goods: Goods infringing the rights of a trademark holder by displaying a trademark which is either identical to a protected trademark, or by using an identification mark which cannot be distinguished in its essential aspects from such trademark are prohibited.

Obscene Articles: These items include prints, paintings, cards, films, videotapes and other articles depicting obscene, nude or seminude persons are prohibited. If the pornographic literature deals with violence, sexual abuse of children or sexual activities of humans with animals, the possible criminal charges shall increase. The very possession of pornographic literature dealing with sexual abuse of children is prohibited.

Remember, MPS privileges can be revoked if these rules are violated.

BLUF: If you have a question about a good you would like to send or have sent, ask your local postal team.

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Sigonella Marines give Catania students tips to remain healthy Photo story by Alberto Lunetta

CATANIA, Sicily – On February 22th, a team of Sigonella Marines met the children of the Scuola dell’Infanzia e Primaria “Maddalena di Canossa” kindergarten/elementary school in Catania to encourage a healthy lifestyle as part of the busy NASSIG PAO COMRELs held at Sicilian schools.

Marines discussed strategies on how to start a healthy eating style by choosing foods that have less saturated fat, salt and added sugar as suggested by the choosemyplate.gov, a USDA food-guide website offering tips on how to eat healthy which is also translated into Italian. Students were very attentive and asked questions about the Marines eating/sports habits and Marines then recommended students to exercise on a regular basis and led them through a variety of simple exercises to say fit and played basketball and soccer. Sigonella volunteers teamed up with two soccer players of the Catania Women’s Soccer Club who showed children some basic soccer practice.

“This intercultural and learning experience has enriched our students as they surely got the message that it is important to eat well and exercise. Children were impressed by the Marines’ athletic bodies!” said Marcello Greco, the School’s Director.

This school is part of an international network of Catholic religious institutes’ run by the Canossian Daughters of Charity, Servants of the Poor who are a missionary congregation of women founded by St. Magdalene of Canossa, canonized in 1988. Canossians Sisters manage schools kindergartens, primary, secondary, special needs and vocational schools across the globe. The Catania Canossian School, which used to be a special institute for hearing impaired girls, still continues today to host and support disadvantaged and special needs children.

Almond blossom and International Folklore festival returns to Agrigento Story by Alberto Lunetta The 73rd edition of the traditional “Sagra del Mandorlo in Fiore” (Almond Blossom Festival) and the prestigious International Folklore Festival return to Agrigento, which according to Greek poet Pindar is the “most beautiful city of mortals,” from March 3 through 11 featuring eight days of amazing dance shows, folklore parades, arts and crafts, beauty contests, concerts, delicious local food and entertainment.

Almond trees have been already in full blossom in Agrigento since February spreading their delicious perfume in the air, all around the enchanting Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples) a world-renowned enchanting Greek archeological site, which features traces of an ancient and proud civilization.

Those beautiful trees provide a unique and breathtaking spectacle for the festival annually drawing thousands of tourists from all over the world.

The almond, which is considered as a symbol of rebirth and beauty, is the first tree to come into flower after the winter season. Almonds are native to central Asia and the Mediterranean, even though they are also cultivated in the Middle East, Italy, Spain, Greece, and California that produces over 70 per cent of the world crop.

According to legend, the origin of the almond tree is rooted in a Greek mythological story. It tells of the beautiful princess Phyllis who died of a broken heart for having been deserted

by Demophoon, a Greek king whom she loved. Demophoon had left Phyllis to return to Athens for a short visit but never came back for months. Phyllis’s tragic death moved the goddess to turn her into a barren almond tree which when embraced by the grieving Demophoon on his delayed arrival, burst forth into full bloom. The tale is a true demonstration of undying love.

The Valley of the Greek Temples and the historic center of the town is therefore a perfect backdrop for this worldwide brotherhood celebration. This year, eleven folklore groups from around the world showcase their heritage through traditional dance, music, and costumes.

During the festival, city balconies and windows will be decorated with colored flowers.

The origins of the festival date back to the 1930s. Every year, at the beginning of February, the farmers of Naro, a small village in the Agrigento province, used to celebrate the early almond blooming with songs, dances and float parades. The festival also helped to promote local community produce.

Through the years, the festival, which was moved to Agrigento, earned an international reputation as a celebration of peace and friendship that involves folklore groups from all over the world.

Here are some of the festival’s highlights.

Every day there will be a folklore show and parades in the city’s historic center. Folk-

lore parades, featuring folklore groups from 15 countries (Argentina, Armenia, Belgium, Bulgaria, China, Colombia, Croatia, Georgia, India, Kenya, Mexico, Russia, Serbia, Spain and Turkey) will be held at several venues (Palacongressi, Teatro Postavecchia), in piazza

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 15

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Navy Announces Targeted Reentry Program From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- In support of Sailor 2025's goal to retain and reward the Navy's best and brightest, the Navy announced Feb. 27 the Targeted Reentry Program (TRP) and associated program guidelines to expedite reentry into the Navy in NAVADMIN 047/18.

The TRP is designed to benefit both the Sailor and the Navy by allowing a return to service for those who are well trained leaders with valuable and needed skills and will be offered to selected Sailors prior to their departure from the Navy.

The TRP empowers Commanding Officer's (COs) to identify Active Component and Full Time Support officer and enlisted personnel who have elected to leave active duty (AD) service and do not desire to affiliate with the Ready Reserve and recommend them to be awarded a "Golden Ticket" or "Silver Ticket," giving them the option for expedited reentry to AD if they decide to return to the Navy.

"Talent is tough to draw in and even tougher to keep," said Vice Adm. Robert Burke, Chief of Naval Personnel. "Just like corporate businesses are adapting, the Navy must adapt to modern personnel policies as well. These changes are designed to maximize opportunities for command triads to advance their best Sailors while managing community and individual rates' health."

O-3 and O-4 officers and E-4 to E-6 enlisted, who have completed their Minimum Service Requirement (MSR), but not yet reached 14 years of active service are eligible for consideration for TRP. Also, an officer's or enlisted' s community qualifications must be obtained, superior performance annotated in Fitness Reports or Evaluations, and have passed their most recent Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA). Officers who have failed to select for promotion are not eligible. Perspective participants must meet character standards, i.e. no record of civil arrest/NJP, courtmartials, failed drug screenings, etc.

The Golden Ticket recipients are guaranteed a quota and an expedited return to AD within one year of release as long as they remain fully qualified. Silver Ticket recipients are afforded an expedited return to AD within two years of release, subject to the needs of the Navy and that they remain fully qualified. Golden Tickets, if not used within one year, will convert to Silver Tickets for an additional year. Silver Tickets not used within two years of release from AD expire.

Sailors who accept a Golden or Silver Ticket prior to release from active duty will go into a minimum reserve status, known as Standby Reserve- Inactive (USNR-S2) status. In this reserve status, Sailors will have no participation requirement and will not be eligible for promotion or advancement or be eligible for health care, retirement points, Servicemembers Group Life Insurance and other benefits. The Date of Rank of officers and Time in Rate of enlisted TRP participants will be adjusted upon returning to AD. Sailors who return to active duty using TRP will maintain the last rating and paygrade held at the time of separation.

BUPERS-3 is the approving authority for all TRP ticket request and will make determinations based on overall performance, community health, and needs of the Navy. Once approved for a Golden or Silver Ticket, officer and enlisted personnel will have the option to accept or reject participation in the TRP prior to their release from AD. Sailor 2025 is comprised of nearly 45 initiatives to improve and modernize personnel management and

training systems to more effectively recruit, develop, manage, reward, and retain the force of tomorrow. It is focused on empowering Sailors, updating policies, procedures, and operating systems, and providing the right training at the right time in the right way to ensure Sailors are ready for the Fleet. Sailor 2025 is organized into three main lines of effort, specifically Personnel System Modernization, Ready Relevant Learning and Career Readiness.

Team Navy Ready for DOD Warrior Games

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kristopher S. Haley U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Public Affairs

the recovery process. It gives a chance to set a standard for their lives that they wish to obtain."

Along with the physical recovery and rehabilitation benefits, the Team Navy trials and the DoD Warrior Games help build new relationships with other competitors who have like-minded drives and experiences while supporting strong social networks and a sense of community they can rely on during their path to recovery.

"We're all here to compete, everyone wants to make the team and go to the Warrior Games," said Cryptologic Technician 1st Class Tyson Schmidt, 2018 Team Navy Trials participant. "Our competitiveness is equally matched by support. Whether you're the first person to finish a race or the last one to finish a swim, the volume of cheers and support doesn't change."

Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor provides Sailors and Coast Guardsmen as well as their families with non-medical care while they are recovering from serious illness or injury. There are approximately 4,000 Sailors and Coast Guardsmen currently enrolled in the program. To learn more, log onto www. navywoundedwarrior.com.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- The top 40 athletes have earned their spot in Team Navy and will now make their way to this year's DoD Warrior Games, an adaptive sports competition for wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans.

The 2018 Team Navy trials, which were hosted by Commander, Navy Installations Command's Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor program, came to a close Feb. 24 at Naval Station Mayport.

"The Navy's adaptive sports program provides a critical pathway to recovery for these resilient warriors," said Vice Adm. Mary Jackson, commander of Navy Installations Command, who oversees the 11 regions and 71 installations worldwide that are foundational to fleet and warfighter readiness. "Watching these athletes compete provides many with a renewed appreciation for life. The teamwork and the camaraderie that exist within and between these athletes are indescribably powerful and inspirational."

Approximately 70 athletes competed in various paralympic-style events, including track and field, swimming, shooting, archery, sitting volleyball, cycling and wheelchair basketball. Those who made the Navy roster will face off with athletes from the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and U.S. Special Operations Command as well as the Australian Defence Force and the United Kingdom Armed Forces June 2-9 at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

"It's more than just a sport," said Kile Putman, one JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (Feb 22, 2018) Active duty service members and veterans of the Team Navy's adaptive compete in wheelchair basketball at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Mayport's field coaches. "It's about com- Fitness Center during the 2018 Team Navy trials. Navy Wounded Warrior-Safe ing together with a common Harbor and NAVSTA Mayport are hosting the trials, in which athletes will thread of 'our body is just not qualify in eight adaptive sports: archery, track and field, cycling, wheelchair what it once was.' Sports allow basketball, shooting, sitting volleyball, and swimming. The top performing service members to set specific athletes will fill 40 competitive spots and five alternative spots for Team Navy goals to obtain. That technique at the 2018 Department of Defense Warrior Games. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass can be applied to daily lives in Communication Specialist 2nd Class Amanda Battles/Released)

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2018 Frien

NAS Sigonella vs 41

Story by: Jennifer Haley • Pho On Thursday, February 22nd NAS Sigonella’s soccer team faced off against the Comando Aeroporto 41st Wing’s team in the 1st Annual Friendship Cup on NAS 2’s Turf Field. Lt Col Francesco Mincolelli with “Squada Azzurra” and Marlon Gomez with NAS Sigonella were charged with organizing the friendly competition as a way to show continued support and comradery. NAS Sig’s private and non-profit organizations showed their support of the event. USO Sigonella provided a Hot Dog lunch to spectators and players, the All Officers’ Spouses’ Club (AOSC) sponsored the entertainment and player refreshments, and the Chief Petty Of-

ficer’s Association (CPOA) rounded up volunteers as well as donated the Friendship Cup Plaque.

The faceoff commenced at 12:45pm with the presentation of colors as the players, coaches, and referees stood lined-up in the middle of field and spectators watched and waited from the sidelines while the Italian and U.S. national anthems were sung by Paola Gaglio of “Sounds Good”. We all pictured a bright and sunny day, birds singing, and children playing. Nothing could be farther from what actually happened. By kick-off, the rains progressed from a light sprinkle to a steady rain with the occasional down pour.

Officiating the match were Christian Belle and Christopher “Frog” Steinnecker. Team Squadra Azzurra kicked-off the 1st Half. Lombardo in goal for Squadra Azzurra and Grady in goal for NAS Sig. Within the first 5 minutes Richichi with Squadra Azzura scored. A few minutes later Squadra Azzura’s Scibelli scored after an indirect kick. The score is now 0-2 in favor of the Italian team, with the Americans looking to score. Scibelli put away another goal around the 25

Captains: Maccagnano, A. Goal Keepers: Lombardo, G / Ro Referees: Christian Belle an Scorers: 1st Half

Italy 1st Rich Italy 2nd Scib Italy 3rd Scib US 1st Adrie

2nd Half

Italy Keeper Italy 4th Rich US 2nd Adrie US 3rd Toura Italy 5th Scib US 4th Toura US 5th Toura

Penalty Kicks

Italy Richichi Minnblla Scibelli Mangiola Bruno

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ndship Cup

1st Stormo Airwing

otos by: Melissa O Photography minute mark to bring the count to 0-3. NAS Sig finally answers back with a header from Rivera almost immediately, bringing the score to 1-3 at the half. Coaches Maccagnano (Squadra Azzura) and Gomez (NAS Sig) skillfully subbed players in and out of the 9 v 9 game.

At Halftime the rain subsides long enough for spectators to enjoy a hotdog lunch provided by USO Sigonella and its volunteers. The Halftime show was cancelled due to weather.

The 2nd Half kicks off with Team NAS Sig in possession of the ball. Squadra Azzura switches Goal Keepers to Lacuzza while NAS Sig’s Grady continues on. Similar to the 1st Half, Squadra Azzura’s Richichi scores within the first 5 minutes. This time NAS Sig’s Rivera answers back with a goal bringing the score to 2-4. Hope spread among the spectators. The cheers from the crowd huddled under popup tents to stay dry echoed across the field. Then Touray with NAS Sig scored around 10 minutes later, and with the Americans only down by one, excitement ensued.

For the first time tying or even winning seemed possible. Then Scibelli with

/ Marlon Gomez obert Grady nd Christopher “Frog” Steinnecker

hichi, A ~5min belli, A ~10min Indirect kick belli, A ~25min en Rivera ~26min Head Ball

r Change to Lacuzza, D hichi, A ~5min en Rivera ~10min ay Famara ~20min belli ~ 25min Bicycle Kick ay Famara ~26min ay Famara ~ 29min

US Touray Alconini - missed Ramirez Adkins

Squadra Azzura puts one away with a textbook bicycle kick. The timing was perfect. Squadra Azzurra now had a 2-point lead with less than 10mins left in the 2nd Half.

Touray with NAS Sig answers with back to back goals in the final minutes to tie the game 5-5.

Penalty Kicks determined the winner and in the end, Comando Aeroporto 41st Wing won 5-4.

In the closing ceremony, Captain Trickle of NAS Sigonella presented Col Amendola, ITAF Vice Commandant of the 41st Stormo, a wood plaque in the shape of a soccer ball commemorating the event.

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MARCH 2, 2018

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:

CAREER TECHNICAL TRAINING TRACK WORKSHOP (CT3)

FIRST RESPONDER ASSOCIATION (FRA) MONTHLY COMREL

Date of Event: 08-09 March Time of Event: 0800-1600 Location of Event: NAS 1 Fleet and Family Services Bldg. 319 Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4291 Point of Contact Email Address: Tiffany.a.butler@eu.navy.mil or Cinzia.spampinato.it@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: The Career Technical Training Track is designed to assist you in defining technical career goals, identifying required credentials, finding career technical training opportunities, identifying local Veteran resources and utilizing your VA education benefit.

Organization: First Responder Association Date of Event: 16 March 2018 Time of event: 1000-1300 Point of Contact Name: MA2 MalavĂŠ Ortiz/MA2 Conaghan Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-5927/624-5177 Point of Contact Email Address: thalia.ortiz@eu.navy.mil/ Dawson.Conaghan@ eu.navy.mil Additional Information: The first responder association will have their monthly COMREL on Friday, March 16th.

We will team up with students to clean up the school grounds and green areas to help raise environmental awareness and make the school a safer and clean place to stay. We will meet in front of Marinai at 0900 or at the school at 0945. If you would like to volunteer please email any of the POCs above so that we can tell the school how many people are participating.

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Mondays AA Meeting:

1800-1900

Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900-1100 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 AWANA: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . 1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: .0600-0700

Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): . . . . . . . . . . 1600-1800 Thursdays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1200-1530 Choir Practice: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2030

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

Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . 1800 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS):.

1045-1200

Fridays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour:. . . . . . . . 1700-1830

Protestant Service: . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600

NAS 2

Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2100 Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900 Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2000

Weekly Traffic Report: Feb. 19 - Feb. 26, 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.

MARCH 2, 2018

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Are You Prepared For A Flood?

BY GM3 Joshua Neal Emergency Preparedness Coordinator

Imagine enjoying a comfortable evening at home catching up on the latest shows, then suddenly you notice the carpet is wet. Moments later it becomes soaked, and water gradually begins to rise to your ankles. The news warned of flash floods throughout the night, but you weren't prepared for it. Or were you?

Flash floods occur rapidly, and at the most inopportune times, catching many families off-guard. What starts off as a slight drizzle of rain can grow exponentially over very short periods of time. They result from many different causes, whether by an onset of heavy rain, a hurricane, dams and water reservoirs giving way, or any number of other explanations. Floods carry not only water they can be filled with an unknown amount of hazards.

We have all undoubtedly seen the images and videos recorded throughout history of homes, cars, whole communities being swept away in a torrent, and all of the things contained within those are now a part of the flood, adding more and more hazards to the emergency. Being prepared, however, can be the determining survival factor during floods.

How does one prepare for such an event?

For starters, keep it simple. Having a simple emergency preparedness kit in your home, vehicle, or at your work can mitigate the effects of the flood, or any emergency for that matter, for you and your family. Think of it as your baseline for emergency preparedness, just as you keep a tire repair kit or the spare wheel in your car as essential preparedness for a flat tire. The Department of Homeland Security and FEMA both recommend a couple of items for your basic supply kit. You can always make modifications as your needs may vary.

Some of these items include: Flashlights and extra batteries.

Battery-powered or hand crank radio.

NOAA Weather Radio.

First aid kit and first aid manual.

Signal flare and whistle.

Important family documents (insurance policies, identification, bank account records, etc. all kept in a waterproof, portable container).

3-day supply of non-perishable food and a can opener.One gallon of water per person, per day, for three days, for drinking and sanitation.

Other items you may choose to have could include medications, stormproof matches, and a list of emergency contact numbers, a sleeping bag, or pet food. The list could go on indefinitely, but you can never go wrong with just keeping it simple. Also, be sure to keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.

Having an emergency/disaster supply kit is good and all, but that seems to be more for how you could respond in the event of a flood. Granted there's not much anyone can do to prevent natural floods from occurring, but there are some steps you can take when you find out the probability of flooding for your area. Preparing your home is always an excellent way to begin. If you have outdoor furniture or pets, bring them inside.

Essential documents and valuable possessions can be temporarily relocated to the highest possible floor of your home to minimize potential flood damage should it get into your home. While you're at it, go ahead and turn off and disconnect any and all electrical appliances and equipment as dealing with the flood will be challenging enough without having to worry about electrocution. For some home equipment, you may have to utilize a central switch, valve, or breaker panel in preparation for the possible flood. Further preparation to combat floods can include but is not limited to considering buying flood insurance and it is strongly encouraged to familiarize yourself with local community emergency plans to include evacuation routes and where to seek higher ground should the need arise.

Where can you find that information? In addition to online resources, NAS Sigonella's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is the go-to for your preparation needs and inquiries. Located on NAS II, the EOC is staffed by personnel who plan for everything. Whether it be floods, fires, earthquakes, volcanoes, or any other event on the long list of emergencies and disasters, the EOC has a plan. We also highly encourage everyone to check with their commands to verify that their contact information in AtHoc is up to date, that way your command can get in contact with you and so that the EOC can keep you informed with text alerts, emails, and calls regarding ongoing or expected emergencies. Should you find yourself in a flood or other emergency, knowing your location’s address and GPS coordinates is essential to allow the EOC to send the appropriate responders to help you. April showers bring May flowers they say, and April showers will be upon us sooner than we can blink, just like that suddenly wet carpet as you're relaxing after a long day of work. Be prepared for flash floods, be prepared for emergencies, and be prepared for everything.

Want to learn more? Stop by the EOC at NAS II, and our Emergency Management staff will be more than glad to guide you in preparing for a myriad of situations. You can also send me an email at joshua.neal@eu.navy.mil or ABH2 Ji, Brandon, at sung.ji@eu.navy.mil.

Should you have any emergencies, please call the EOC's Emergency Dispatch Center at 095-86-1911 or DSN 624-1911. For nonemergencies, you can contact the Emergency Dispatch Center at 095-86-5225 or DSN 6245225.

MARCH 2, 2018

MARCH 2, 2018

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GAMEZONE GIANT HOUSE GOLDENROD CRAB GRAY CROSS GREEN LYNX HAMMOCK HERCULES BABOON HOBO JEWEL JOHNSON JUMPER JUMPING LADYBIRD MIMIC NURSERY WEB ORBWEAVER PARSON

PIRATE REDBACK RUNNING SOWBUG KILLER SPITTING STEALTHY GROUND STRIPED LYNX TENT WEB TURRET TWIG WESTERN LYNX WHIP WOODLOUSE ZEBRA

MEDIUM

ANT MIMIC ARROWHEAD BANDED GARDEN BIRD DROPPING BOLAS BOLD JUMPER BROWN RECLUSE BROWN WIDOW BUTTON CELLAR ENAMEL FILMY DOME FLOWER GHOST

EASY

Find and circle all of the spider species that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell a secret message.

DIFFICULT

Spiders 2

PAGE 13

PAGE 14 "ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 Cavour at 11 a.m. and in the evening at the Pirandello Theater.

The last day of the festival (Sunday, March 11) will begin at 9:30 a.m. with a folklore show and will feature the final award show at 3 p.m. at the Valley of Temples.

Tickets are required at some events such as concerts and some folklore shows. For more information, detailed schedules visit http://sagradelmandorloinfiore.com/

Tens of thousands march in rival protests across Italy

Story by AFP Tens of thousands of people marched in rival far-right and anti-fascist demonstrations across Italy on Saturday, with isolated clashes erupting as tensions threatened to boil over ahead of this weekend's election.

Police estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 people attended a campaign rally in Milan led by Matteo Salvini, the head of anti-immigration group The League, which said the turnout was closer to 50,000.

The group, formerly known as the Northern League, is part of ex-prime minister Silvio Berlusconi's right-wing coalition, which opinion polls suggest is leading ahead of the March 4th election.

"Italians first," Salvini, who hopes to become the country's next leader, told the crowd.

Violence briefly broke out at another Milan demonstration, police in riot gear briefly grappling with anti-fascist protesters marching to counter a rally by the neo-fascist CasaPound movement.

There has been a dramatic uptick in violence between antifascist and far-right activists in recent weeks, and more than 3,000 police were mobilized for demonstrations in Rome.

However, the biggest march in the Italian capital remained calm, with a sea of red and green union flags waving in the cold rain.

"We are here to say no to fascism, because there are too many toxic incidents at the moment, it must not come back," Rita Solo of the CGIL union told AFP. Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni and former leftist PM Matteo Renzi, who is vying to regain the post, briefly attended the demonstration, which was organised by the National Association of Italian Partisans (ANPI), under the slogan "Fascism Never Again".

Protesters hurled firecrackers at police at another protest in Rome, which was organized by a left-wing union to rail against labor reforms.

Earlier in the day in Milan, hundreds of anti-fascist activists, many of them holding Communist Party flags, had gathered in a square to protest.

"We find it really shocking that two demonstrations by racist parties were authorized in Milan," said local activist Gianni Fossati.

The climate was tense in Palermo, Sicily ahead of an evening rally by the extreme-right Forza Nuova group, after one of the party's activists was beaten up by men wearing masks there last Tuesday.

There have been numerous clashes between anti-fascist and far-right activists across the country, particularly after a racially motivated attack on February 3rd by a far-right gunman in the central city of Macerata that left six African migrants wounded.

The violence comes amid fears of a revival of far-right groups in the election, after several European countries shifted to the right in recent years against a backdrop of economic and migration woes.

An average of the last major opinion polls suggested Berlusconi's right-wing coalition, which includes his Forza Italia (Go Italy) party; The League and the far-right Brothers of Italy could finish on top, but fail to achieve a parliamentary majority.

"Salvini represents change for Italy. It's a key moment," said Diego Bazzano, a 30-year-old member of The League who turned up to the Milan rally.

"We Italians no longer have any rights, no work. We can no longer take in people who come in from abroad and then commit crimes," he said. "We are no longer free to live as we want."

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MARCH 2, 2018

USO Sigonella Chili Cook-off: AOSC vs CPOA

By Jennifer Haley AOSC Service Committee Chair

The USO hosted a Chili Cook-off between the All Officers’ Spouses Club (AOSC) and the NAS Sigonella Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA) during the montly Taste of Home event at the Take 5 Liberty Center on NAS 2.

Single and unaccompanied service members sampled seven pots of chili in total, three from the AOSC and four from the CPOA. President of the AOSC Melissa Grady and CPOA representative Chief Wendell Harrison shook hands and the battled commenced. The winner’s fate was left up to the hungry masses. To accompany the chili, volunteers from each organization donated honey cornbread and cornbread muffins, rice, and toppings.

In the end, the AOSC earned bragging rights for the best chili by taking 1st place with Melissa Grady’s submission of a Paleo chili. The 2nd and 3rd place spots had ties from each organization. Chief Harrison took 1st place in sides with his made from

scratch honey cornbread.

The USO Sigonella hosts the Taste of Home on the Third Wednesday of every month. Volunteers from the community provide the home-cooked meals served at the event. Because of these altruistic individuals, the USO is able to put smiles on faces and give comfort to single and unaccompanied service members. If you would like to donate for future events, contact Stacey Geddings, Program and Volunteer Coordinator, at the USO or watch for Facebook Posts on their page “USO Sigonella”.

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Jaguars Participate in the DoDEA Europe Wrestling Championships Story and photos by Randy Latimer

The Sigonella Middle/High School (MHS) Jaguars participated in the annual DoDEA-Europe Wrestling Championships held at the Clay Kaserne Fitness Center in Wiesbaden Germany on Feb. 16 and 17. The Jag grapplers capped off a standout year under coaches Duke Rob Allen and Justen Estes sending six wrestlers to the Championships. The

previous weekend the Jaguars made an outstanding showing at the Southern Sectional Tournament with three first place finishes, one second place and one fourth place. The first three Sectional place winners automatically qualified for the European Championships and two other wrestlers earned wild card slots based on their performance at Sectionals and during the regular season. This is quite an achievement for Sigonella MHS as they compete in the Division III small school category and only had enough wrestlers come out this year to compete in 11 of the 14 weight classes. Unlike the DoDEA team sports, Basketball, Volleyball and Soccer that only compete against other Division III teams, the wrestlers at the DoDEA-Europe Championships all compete

together at each weight class. This includes the Division I juggernauts like Stuttgart and Ramstein that are so big they can field Two Varsity teams with competitors at every weight class. Three Jaguars placed in the Championship. Junior Munro Manning took an undefeated 22-0 record into the finals and took Second at 113lbs. Freshman Ben Latimer placed Sixth at 126lbs and junior Joey Perroni won his final match to place Fifth at 285lbs. Go Jaguars!

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MARCH 2, 2018