The Signature | May 19, 2017

Military Spouses: May is Spouse Appreciation Month

PAGE 4

Amalfi:

USO:

Coast with the Most

The Teddy Bear Club

PAGES 8-9

N A S SIG O N E L L A

PAGE 12

MAY 19, 2017

Vol. 34 No. 19

NAS Sigonella Updates Dispatch System

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – When someone calls 911, it is safe to assume they need urgent assistance. In order to better serve the Sigonella community in times of emergency, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella updated their Computer Aided Dispatch System (CADS) in March as part of a $7 million Navy Region Europe Africa Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA) update.

CADS provides emergency dispatchers with a number of new capabilities while also improving efficiency. One of the biggest updates is the live connected system.

In order to better serve the Sigonella community in times of emergency, the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella updated their Computer Aided Dispatch System (CADS) in March as part of a $7 million Navy Region Europe Africa Southwest Asia (EURAFSWA) update.

(U. S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon/Released)

“Any of the three dispatchers can take an emergency call, input the information, and the other two can see it live,” said Beth Bruner, EOC and dispatch manager at NAS Sigonella. “We have a very small staff so teamwork is paramount. For them to be able to see what each other is doing and what the emergency is in real time is extremely important.”

This aspect alone has changed the entire dynamic of the dispatch center. Before the live-link, the dispatchers had less effective means to communicate with one another.

“Before the switch it was cumbersome because if someone was on the phone we didn’t know what was going on until they were done talking.

I’d have to yell over the desk to see what they were doing,” said Cindy Erdmann, the senior emergency dispatcher at the EOC. “It allows us all to work together more efficiently.

Instead of waiting for the call to be complete, we can already be dispatching security, medical or fire to wherever it needs to be going while the call is still being taken.”

Along with being linked, the system also incorporates a new medical procedure program, which aids the dispatcher in dealing with medical emergencies.

“We didn’t have any instructions or training. We would just say ‘OK, medical is coming to you, please call us back if you need anything more,’” said Erdmann. “Now as soon as a call comes in and they say medical emergency, right when I type medical emergency, it will start prompt-

ing me with questions. It will prompt me into specific questions geared towards what problems they may be having.”

With this new tool, dispatchers are now able to drastically assist with keeping patients alive while they wait for medical services to arrive.

An additional update the dispatch center implemented is the geo-link system. Before the switch the dispatchers had to use a large printed map. The geo-link system is a live digital map that identifies where the call is coming from instantly—but only if the call is coming from a landline. If a call is from a cellphone, the caller must know their location for the dispatchers to input it into the geo-link, a problem the dispatchers deal with regularly.

An easy way for iPhone users to find their latitude and longitude is to open the Compass App and find it there. Otherwise there are other apps for Android users to get that info-or just be mindful of what street you're on. If there is ever an emergency, the number for emergency dispatch is 095-86-1911.

“Sometimes people call off-base and just say they’re in Catania and not specifically where, which creates time delays,” said Erdmann. “It is helpful if the caller knows their location, knows their phone number, etc. These things aren’t things people think about until an accident happens. Learning how to drop a pin, or find out their latitude and longitude would help us dispatch services to them faster and possibly save lives.”

"Fuel for the Fleet" Energy Competition Kicks Off

From Installation Energy Manager

WHO: Rear Adm. Rick Williamson, Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia has launched the annual competition, Fuel for the Fleet, building on the success over the past three years of the month-long Energy Biggest Loser competition.

WHAT: With a target 2.5 percent energy reduction per year, Fuel for the Fleet (F3) is a continual

energy awareness campaign and competition, with built in quarterly and annual awards, designed to foster a culture of efficient energy.

WHERE: Each installation will conduct its own energy reduction campaign, reporting on the results monthly.

WHEN: F3 was launched in conjunction with Earth Day celebrations on April 21, 2017, and runs

continually with quarterly award recognition in August, November, February, and quarterly and annual recognition in May. WHY: Energy efficiency is critical to ensuring the viability of Navy operations world-wide. Agile, globally engaged Navy and Marine Corps forces are essential to U.S. national security. To deploy combat power at sea and ashore, the Services require secure, readily accessible energy resources. The Department of the Navy (DoN) must seize all reasonable opportunities to reduce the logistical constraints imposed by the procurement, storage and delivery of energy to naval forces. We must continue to improve our Services’ energy posture to enhance warfighter freedom of action and maneuver around the world.

HOW: Each month the energy usage for each installation is compared to that installation’s prior year energy use, normalized for weather. Each installation is represented by a ship, signifying both the concept of the region working together like a carrier strike force and the recognition that energy saved on shore increases the operational capacity of our sea missions.

The energy saved, adjusted for installation size, serves as the “fuel” for each installation’s “ship,” while the efforts of each installation to create awareness of energy reduction will be measured and turned into the ship’s “speed.” Each month the “fuel” times “speed” will represent distance traveled on the chart. Installations will be recognized for their efforts at the monthly Regional Energy Council, and quarterly and annual winners will be awarded publicly.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 2

MAY 19, 2017

Direct Line

ATCS Bill J. Rhodes - NASSIG Air Operations LCPO During a 23-year career in the Navy, there are various decisions pondered, sacrifices made and opportunities considered. There are even times when the stars align, and a very special opportunity presents itself. I’d like to share one such experience with you with the intent that it may inspire some applicants and perhaps provide insight into what I would consider one of the Navy’s hidden gems, The U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

As a young Aviation Electronics Technician stationed in Jacksonville, Fla. in the mid 1990s, I watched this highly professional demonstration squadron perform many times over the years. Even then, I was amazed at the level of skill, and professionalism displayed at the show sites by the Sailors and Marines on the team.

It wasn’t until 2013, while stationed at VXS-1 in Pax River, Md., that I discussed my intentions with my wife and the decision was made to apply for the 2014 season. Paying close attention to the details of the NAVADMIN, I submitted the requested application

through my chain of command and to the detailer. He was onboard with releasing me to special programs, and I set up a date to fly to NAS Pensacola for a one week interview. The interview started on a Sunday afternoon in March. Just as the sun was beginning to set over Pensacola, as I stood out on the flight line, the Delta formation appeared over the tree-tops, flew past us, performed their signature Pitchup-Break and in perfect succession landed and taxied to the ramp. I was awestruck. About an hour later, The Blue Angels C-130 Fat Albert flew past and landed with the maintenance crew. The home crew maintainers, the other interviewees and I all lined up and shook every single person’s hand as they debarked. The feeling of camaraderie was overwhelming. From Sunday night to Thursday morning, I sat and talked with every Sailor and Marine I came across walking through the spaces. I also did interviews with all work center LPOs, a Maintenance Chief and the Maintenance Master Chief. On Thursday morning at 0500

the team loaded Fat Albert and launched for their next show site. My interview had come to an end, but I was hooked.

As I approached closer and closer to my PRD, I worried if not selected what I would do next. I would only have one look at orders so I was playing the odds that I had made an impression back in Pensacola.

When the phone finally rang in July of 2013 the person on the other end asked how I was.

After we exchanged pleasantries, he said welcome to the team. He then told me to take some time to let my family and friends know and that he looked forward to seeing me in October.

From October 2013 to November 2016, I worked as Crew Chiefs Division Chief, Quality Assurance Supervisor and “HOTSEAT.” I met some of the greatest Sailors and Marines I have ever known and had the honor and privilege to represent over 500,000

Sailors and Marines performing flight demonstrations at over 100 show sites across the United States. I won’t soon forget the experiences, friends and teammates I encountered along the way. It was without a doubt the best experience In 23 years of service and I highly encourage those that have the ability to seize the opportunity.

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 Suggestion 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 “Wait Time at Housing”:

Following a recent number of interactions with the Housing Service Center in which we have had set appointment times I find it deplorable to be kept waiting, while observing the staff member we are supposed to be meeting in the courtyard smoking. Upon checking in at the reception counter we have been told that we may have to wait a little because our housing specialist is a little behind. When we finally met the specialist we were greeted to an office full of other clients’ paperwork, inattentive service and poor customer service. When we were recently shown some houses on the economy, which were below our lowest expectations, the housing specialist felt it was appropriate to use the vehicle to go for some espresso and cannoli which was an inappropriate use of the vehicle and our time.

Response:

Thank you for taking the time to share you recent experience. I apologize that your initial interaction with Housing was less than positive. I have shared your feedback with Housing which strives for continual improvement. Housing is currently implementing new processes to increase efficiency and improve customer service, to include sending 15 personnel to customer service training. Housing has also streamlined its housing brief, minimized processes in order to get service members into housing quicker, and implemented a realtor program to provide access to housing inventory. We currently have over 400 homes listed on homes.

mil and all meet Military Housing criteria. At this time we have more personnel inbound than departing and as a result there are fewer homes to choose from but we are currently expanding our inventory through the realtor program. In regards to the usage of government vehicles, stops for food and to use the rest room are authorized as some housing tours can last up to seven hours depending on the amount of personnel on tour and the number of units to see. For future Housingrelated questions or concerns, please contact the Installation Housing Director Peter Faulk at 624-4070 or peter.faulk@eu.navy.mil.

Comment regarding “Housing Office Hours”:

This office frequently closes at 1530. Calls went unanswered beginning at 1530 on Friday 7 April 2017. Recommend listing more accurate hours of service to reflect the limited hours.

Response:

Thank you for your comment. The Housing front desk is regularly manned from 0730 to 1600, Monday through Friday with the exception of Wednesday when the office closes to the public at 1400 for training. There may be times when the front desk phone is temporarily unattended when all Housing team members are assisting customers. In cases where the clerk cannot answer on time, the front desk answering machine provides necessary information after the sixth ring. Messages

"ICE" continued on Page 3

MAY 19, 2017

"ICE" continued from Page 2 can be left on the answering machine and customers will be called back as soon as possible. Customers may also contact the after-hours emergency number in case of an emergency. The front desk numbers at housing are 624-3845 or 624-4311 and the Emergency number is 335-830-8222. For future Housing-related questions or concerns, please contact the Installation Housing Director Peter Faulk at 624-4070 or peter.faulk@eu.navy.mil.

Comment regarding “Marinai Access Policy for NATO Personnel”:

There is conflicting protocol for NATO members to gain access onto Marinai for home visits. I am one of the handful of US NATO members living in Marinai, and each time I've attempted to have my coworkers over to my home in Marinai (who have no issue getting on to NAS 1 or 2) I am given differing ease of access. In one instance my DoD ID was all that was needed with their blue NATO ID; another time I had to get out and sign sponsorship paperwork (since no MWR events were taking place I was told). Given the nature of events that took place a few months ago which essentially banned NATO members from unlimited access to Marinai, I think consideration should be made for US NATO members living in Marinai to allow sponsorship with just DoD IDs(with an agreement for them to also use NASSIG registered vehicles). This maintains a limit on non-sponsored access while also alleviating the burden of paperwork I have to do for every coworker I want to come to my home. I realize this process may not be an issue for Navy members with less interaction with NATO, but it is a very true frustration for me and the other US NATO in the community, which affects our ability to see our coworkers socially because of their frustration with limited Marinai access.

Please consider this request for a change in base access protocol.

Sincerely, Aaron Krizek

THE SIGNATURE

Response:

Dear Mr. Krizek, I appreciate you contacting me in regards to the access control policy for Marinai Housing by North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) personnel. To clarify, non-US NATO personnel taking their children to the Youth Center, Morale Welfare Recreation (MWR) sporting events, or Scouts (Cub/Boy/Girl/Brownies) activities are allowed access to drop off and pick up their children on Marinai. Non-US NATO personnel desiring access to Marinai for other reasons (visiting friends, dining at Umberto’s, Hail and Farewells, dog park, etc.) will need to be sponsored which can be completed relatively quickly. I apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced and can appreciate your frustration. This is the same process that fellow service members who are married to local nationals abide by when their in-laws or other family members want to visit their residence. If you have any additional questions/concerns regarding this issue, please contact the Security Officer, LCDR Richmond at 624-6392.

Comment regarding “BZ for Galley”:

My wife and I ate dinner at the Galley on 19 April, and wanted to comment on how great the place looked. The food was outstanding and the customer service from Mimmo and Tino was fantastic. Thanks so much for the great visit!

Sincerely, CMDCM Rudy Johnson

Response:

CMDCM Johnson, thank you for your kind feedback.

Comments such as yours really help the morale of the staff.

The NASSIG Galley staff work very hard on a daily basis to deliver delicious and healthy meals to our community. In doing so, their collective work ethic, dedication and professionalism are all impressive to observe firsthand and it's great when others recognize it, too. Again, thank you very much for your comments and I'll be sure to share them with the Galley staff, especially Mimmo and Tino.

Name: HT2 Corbin Cooney Hometown: Irvington, Ala. Department: Weaverville, Calif.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) houses the emergency dispatchers and also is the place where, in the case of a large-scale emergency, department representatives gather to react effectively. With such an important role at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, it’s crucial for everyone at the EOC to be fully trained in order to accomplish the mission. That’s where Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Corbin Cooney comes in.

Not only is Cooney in charge of training at the EOC, he is also responsible for community outreach. Cooney visits schools or events to spread the word about calling 911 and being prepared for emergencies.

“Last year I was on USS Roosevelt (DDG-80) unclogging toilets and welding; this year I’m doing something completely different,” said Cooney. “It’s a good opportunity to do something outside of traditional HT work.”

Coming from the ship lifestyle, Cooney says he enjoys the change of pace that NAS Sigonella offers.

“On the destroyer we were deployed, then straight into Board of Inspection and Survey (INSURV), then training – it was just back to back to back,” said Cooney. “Here I get to relax a little bit, enjoy my shore duty, and focus on school.”

Cooney is currently working on his Bachelor’s degree in emergency management, and says he hopes to get most of it done by the time he gets out in a few years.

“I hope to continue in this field when I get out, so the Navy is really setting me up pretty well,” said Cooney.

When he’s not studying, Cooney volunteers with the Red Cross.

“When I’m not volunteering or going to school I like to experience different cultures. I love being able to travel all over Europe,” said Cooney. “I also enjoy astronomy. On the weekend you can usually find me going out with my telescope and looking at the stars.”

PAGE 3

THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@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 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.

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 4

MAY 19, 2017

May is Military Spouse Appreciation Month From Fleet and Family Support Center

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The military way of life can be difficult on everyone in the family – for the service member, his or her spouse, and their child(ren). It is often said that the hardest job in the military is that of the military spouse. Everyone knows how hard it can be on service members – always being on call, long deployments, and always putting the military first, often ahead of family and personal interests. But being a military spouse is no easy task either. When his or her service member deploys, a spouse is left to carry on the roles of two people, taking care of the home, the family and the numerous daily responsibilities of the entire household.

While a spouse’s significant other defends and protects our country, the spouse defends and protects the home until his or her partner returns. Spouses and children are often required to frequently move, to change jobs and schools, and hold down the fort while the service member is deployed or on temporary duty. Without military spouses and the support they give, military service members wouldn’t be able to focus on the mission. It is a challenging job, and this month we honor all of our military spouses for carrying such great responsibility and fulfilling these important roles which help to support our military during its many missions.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day was created by President Reagan in 1984 to recognize the sacrifices and support of military spouses and their commitment to the readiness and well-being of military members. The first Military Spouse Appreciation Day was celebrated May 23, 1984, and the date has since been standardized as the Friday before Mother’s Day. This holiday is normally commemorated by a ceremonial speech or proclamation by the President or the First Lady.

May is Military Spouse Appreciation Month and during this time we celebrate military spouse contributions to keeping our country safe.

America’s military spouses

are the backbone of the families who support our troops during mission, deployment, reintegration and reset. They are the silent heroes who are essential to the strength of the nation and they serve our country just like their loved ones.

Showing your appreciation. The military offers a unique way of life, and being a military spouse is unlike anything else in the civilian world.

If you know anyone who is or ways a military spouse, take some time to say thanks to them today, and take a moment to remember them and their sacrifices throughout the year. The military truly wouldn’t function the same way without them and their support and sacrifices.

MAY 19, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 5

Sigonella Elementary School PTA Carnival

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Students from Sigonella Elementary School and their families participated in a carnival hosted by the PTA Friday, May 12. (Photo by Nicole Ybarra)

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 6

MAY 19, 2017

Venice Bans Kebab Shops to ‘Preserve Decorum and Traditions' Of City Story by The Guardian

Authorities say new measures will stop proliferation of fast-food restaurants that are “not compatible” with the city’s heritage. In an effort to “preserve decorum and traditions” in the romantic canal city of Venice, local authorities have banned new kebab shops and other fast-food outlets from opening.

A law passed on Thursday will also limit shops selling pizza by the slice. Only shops selling artisanal ice cream will be spared from the measure, long championed by the mayor of Venice, Luigi Brugnaro.

Paola Mar, the city’s tourism chief, said: “We want to put the brakes on types of activities which are not compatible with the preservation and development of Venice’s cultural heritage.”

Mar said the city was not opposed to kebabs or other types of fast food, and stressed she did not have a problem with people eating outside, although the consumption of takeaway food in St Mark’s Square is prohibited.

“The problem is that with a tourist city like ours, there is a risk of it losing its identity. There are local products that we must try to promote. This would be better for the spirit of the city and, at an environmental level, would be more sustainable.”

Mar said there were plans to develop picnic areas to deter visitors from eating takeaway food in tourist hotspots.

Venice is the latest Italian city to limit the sale of fast food in a country that prides itself on its national cuisine. Last year Verona stopped the opening of new kebab shops, while Florence has attempted to clamp down on “foreign food” by ruling that all new restaurants and food shops in the city’s historic center must ensure at least 70% of their produce is local.

In Venice, which receives millions of visitors each year, the authorities have long grappled with how to protect the city and its environment.

The tourist influx has angered local residents, with several posters appearing across the city last summer with the message: “Tourists go away!!! You are destroying this area!”

Local authorities have experimented with various measures to manage the number of tourists and make the city more “livable,” including making tourists wait longer at popular vaporetto (water taxi) stops, on top of paying €6 more than locals for a ride.

Recent reports also suggested Venice was mulling charging visitors a fee to enter St Mark’s Square. Mar said this might be something the city adopts on a trial basis, but no firm plan has been drawn up.

Divorce Settlements Could Tumble in Italy Story by Otago Daily Times An Italian court has recently said divorce settlements should no longer guarantee spouses their previous standard of living but rather simply make sure they were financially independent.

The top appeals court ruling could bring an end to the huge settlements seen in some break-ups, such as the €1.4 million a month that former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi has to pay his ex-wife, Veronica Lario.

On Wednesday, the court ruled in a case brought by the ex-wife of Vittorio Grilli, a former economy minister. But rather than back her request for more alimony, the judges said times had changed and the approach to divorce needed to be updated.

The judges said in a written verdict that getting married was “an act of freedom and personal responsibility” that it should not be seen as “a definitive settlement” and that alimony should not be based on any previous “standard of living.”

In this context, it said courts needed to review the work prospects of a separated spouse and simply safeguard their future “economic independence or self-sufficiency.”

“This is an important decision,” said the head of Italy's association of matrimonial lawyers, Gian Ettore Gassani. “The

"DIVORCE" continued on Page 15

In an effort to preserve its cultural heritage, Italy’s “City of Bridges,” Venice, is enforcing a new law that will limit shops selling pizza by the slice, kebabs, and other types of “fast food.” (Photo courtesy of Travel + Leisure)

MAY 19, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 7

NSF Redzikowo Signs Premiere Training Agreement with Polish Forces

By Lieutenant Alex Perrien Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia Public Affairs

REDZIKOWO, Poland (NNS) -- Naval Support Facility Redzikowo Commanding Officer Capt.

Ricky Gilbert signed Memorandums of Agreement May 10 with the Polish Force Protection Battalion, JW5718 and the 7th Coastal Brigade.

The Memorandum will allow American Sailors and Polish Soldiers to train together in all disciplines of military operations, and is an essential step to improving the interoperability of American and Polish forces, increasing base security, and strengthening relationships and communications between the many organizations involved.

"The Memorandums of Agreement signed this afternoon mark an important milestone in our relationship with our Polish partners," said Rear Adm. Rick Williamson, commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia. "These agreements are a tangible demonstration of the U.S. and Polish commitment to NATO's ability to protect itself from the growing threat posed by proliferation of ballistic missiles from outside the Euro-Atlantic area, and allows us to jointly enhance NATO's collective defense."

Representatives from the United States European Command, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, the U.S Embassy in Warsaw, NSF Redzikowo, the Missile Defense Agency, the 7th Coastal Brigade, the Polish Force Protection Battalion, JW5718, and the local police force attended a two-day Joint Security Working Group culminating in the signature of three memorandums.

NSF Redizkowo is an operational platform that provides key support to the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System (AAMDS) including security, safety, housing, and core capabilities: fuel, water, and power, which are essential to keep installations running. The installation and its facilities remain under construction, as does AAMDS Poland.

"The agreements signed today represent an immense amount of coordination and communication between the security forces and parent commands of both Polish and American forces," said

SLUPSK, Poland (May 10, 2017) Col. Piotr Lewandowski, Redzikowo Polish Base Commander and Commander of the Polish Force Protection Battalion, observes Capt. Rick Gilbert, commanding officer of Naval Support Facility Redzikowo, as he prepares to take his turn in signing one of three memorandums of agreement during the 10th Joint Security Working Group. The memorandums allow American Sailors and Polish soldiers to train and coordinate in a variety of areas essential to security and communication concerning NSF Redzikowo. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Alexander Perrien/Released

Capt. Rick Gilbert. "We look forward to productive training and building a 'one team one fight' concept."

As a persistent shore presence for the U.S. Navy in Europe, NSF Redzikowo will cooperate with the host nation and Polish forces to strengthen our relationship in order to increase peace and security throughout the region. Once complete, AAMDS Poland will be integrated into the NATO ballistic missile defense (BMD) infrastructure. The AAMDS Poland is part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach, which will improve collective defensive coverage against medium- and intermediate-range threats from outside the Euro-Atlantic area.

The EPAA is the United States' effort to field capabilities offered as the U.S. voluntary contribution to the NATO Ballistic Missile Defense mission

to counter threats from outside the Euro-Atlantic area. This multi-year, multi-phase effort includes Aegis BMD-capable ships based in Rota, Spain; AAMDS sites in Redzikowo, Poland, and Deveselu, Romania; a forward-deployed radar in Turkey; and a command and control network located at Ramstein Air Base, Germany.

For more news from Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, visit http://www. navy.mil/local/cnre/.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia, visit www.navy. mil/local/cnre/.

Lincoln Achieves Redelivery

From CVN 72 Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (May 11, 2017) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) conducts high-speed turn drills in the Atlantic Ocean during sea trials. Abraham Lincoln is underway after successfully completing it's mid-life refueling and complex overhaul and will spend several days conducting comprehensive tests of many of the ship's key systems and technologies. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3nd Class Juan A. Cubano/Released)

NORFOLK (NNS) -- The USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) was redelivered to the fleet May 12, marking the successful completion of its refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH) carried out at Newport News Shipyard.

At sea for the first time since March 2014, the crew conducted rigorous tests of engineering components, the modernized combat systems suite and flight deck equipment that supports Lincoln's mission at sea. Damage control capabilities and basic deck seamanship were also checked to ensure both the ship and the crew's operational readiness. The ship marked its

return to the fleet after four days of sea trials with high-speed maneuvers, that tested the ship's systems and crew.

"Every Sailor, shipyard worker and contractor involved with RCOH and redelivery should be standing tall as we bring this mighty warship back home to Norfolk and put her back into service for the U.S. Navy," said Capt. Ronald Ravelo, Lincoln's commanding officer. "Getting Lincoln back into the fight was truly an all-hands effort, and I could not be more proud of the crew who helped make that happen."

The success of sea trials marks another step taken towards Abraham Lincoln to

"LINCOLN" continued on Page 14

PAGE 8

THE SIGNATURE

MAY 19, 2017

Amalfi: The Coa

By Dianna O

The Italian coast is the stuff of movies!

How many of us, in the cold winters of (enter your home state) sat watching movies that show panoramic gorgeous sunset views of the coast and thought "Ahhhh take me there." My girlfriends came to visit from the States (Minnesota and yes it’s still snowing there) so it seemed like a great opportunity to make the trip.

Getting to the coast isn't straightforward.

Luckily our flat coordinated a driver, which I will say was pretty exciting in and of itself to be one of those people coming out of the airport and seeing your name held up on a piece of paper. The road down the mountain is spiced with these photos of famous race car drivers that are bold enough to drive that course, taking their life in their hands every twist and turn. These passes are barely wide enough for a single car at times, never mind the tour buses that take them as well. If you are afraid of heights bring an eye shield.

Once you've survived the daring drive you arrive on a coastline that is nothing short of picturesque with pink, white and yellow buildings accented by lemon trees that seem to build up from the water like the Egyptian pyramids.

Our flat had a breathtaking view of the seemingly endless sea. We arrived late in the evening so chose to have dinner at the local hotel and settled in for the night. The next morning we enjoyed the breathtaking pool next door that sat on the edge of the coast called Le Neriedi. It encompasses so many shades of blue in just one view. We were the only ones there on a sunny 75 degree day that by Italian standards was still cool but completely perfect for us! Afterward, we ventured down into town using the bus system which was quite organized and the kind locals would remind us when it was our stop. The water taxis from the town centers run regularly and are very reasonably priced.

Since we had a leisurely morning we missed the morning ferry to Capri so we opted to take a water taxi to Positano. I could have spent weeks there alone. We wandered off the beaten path a little and found a great restaurant called Max. The staff was very friendly and while they indulged my poor Italian for a few minutes they all spoke great English. After a great meal we meandered back through the small streets of shops and merchants selling everything from 150 euro linen dresses to postcards and Limoncello.

MAY 19, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 9

ast with the Most

O’Donnell

On our second day we opted to do the Path of the Gods hike, or "Sul Sentiero Degli Dei." The weather again was in the mid 70s so perfect for the hike, and we made sure to put our sunscreen on because there are many portions of the hike where you are completely unshaded. We chose to start the path on the Bomerano side so we would be walking down the 1,700 steps at the end rather than up at the beginning. We utilized the bus system again from the Amalfi city center.

The hike was beautiful – not incredibly challenging, but definitely not an easy walk in the park. The views make any amount of exercise worth it! The thin layer of fog saved us from some of the hot sun heat and we finished the path in less than two hours.

We grossly underestimated how painful those steps would be even though we were going down but we survived and rewarded ourselves with a cliff side lunch in Positano and a wonderful glass of wine! That evening we decided to splurge a bit and get dinner at the famous and beautiful Monastero Santa Rosa. While rooms at this beautiful 17th century former monastery now hotel/ resort are expensive, their restaurant was

reasonably priced for the exquisite food and four-star service they offer. We were escorted around the property since we arrived a few minutes early for our reservation, and we were glad we did for the building is pristine and the views continued to amaze us. The staff was very attentive and the food was amazing. Chef Bob (yes, that's his last name) came out to greet us at the end of our meal and make sure we enjoyed everything which was obvious by our cleared plates. It was a perfect last dinner for our amazing girls’ trip.

The last day before leaving we spent walking around the Amalfi center, getting some famous handmade Amalfi sandals and witnessing some children leaving church after their first communion. Leaving we regrettably did not opt for the driver option.

Since my friends were carrying on to Rome and me to Naples Airport we chose to take the bus to Salerno and then part ways at the train station. These connections were pretty easy to make but that bus ride is not for the faint of heart. It was a Sunday and very crowded and very warm never mind the death defying turns it made. Despite the bus situation it will definitely go down as one of the best girls’ weekends we've ever planned!

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 10

MAY 19, 2017

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: PROTESTANT VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

ARRIVEDERCI (SMOOTH MOVE)

Command, Department or Organization: RMD (Chapel) Date of Event: June 19-23 Time of Event: 1600-1900 Location of Event: NAS I Chapel Point of Contact Name: Chaplain Myers Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-3975 or 624-2382 Point of Contact Email Address: brian.myers@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: The Chapel will be offering Protestant Vacation Bible School (VBS) and is looking for volunteers to help set up, run sound, play with kids, and lead small groups. This is a religious activity but anyone is welcome to help out that has a heart to serve and care for youth.

To register to help this year please stop by the NAS I chapel and fill out a registration form. If you have questions please contact Chaps Myers at brian.myers@ eu.navy.mil. Everyone who volunteers will receive a certificate from the chapel.

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services 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

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

Command, Department or Organization: FFSC Date of Event: 12th and 27th June, 2017 Time of Event: 0800-1200 Location of Event: NAS I Point of Contact Name: Andrea Carobene Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4291 Point of Contact Email Address: andrea.carobene.it@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: Arrivederci is a MANDATORY class offered twice a month to all service members & civilians to better prepare them for their transition to their new duty station. Service members are highly encouraged to take this course six to four months before PCS. No orders are needed to sign up and take this class. Please call Fleet and Family Support Center at 624-4291 in order to register for this class IT IS SPACE AVAILABLE. Do not wait until it is too late.

Weekly Traffic Report: May 8 - May 15, 2017

Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): . . . . . . . . 1045-1200 Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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

Ristorante Bella Etna

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.

MAY 19, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 11

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 12

Navy Updates Policy on Wrongful Distribution or Sharing of Intimate Images From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- The Navy announced Tuesday in NAVADMIN 119/17 that personnel who wrongfully distribute or broadcast intimate images in violation of Article 1168 of U.S. Navy Regulations will face mandatory administrative separation processing.

"There is no room in our Navy for this toxic behavior," said Chief of Naval Personnel, Vice Adm. Robert Burke.

"This new policy shows that we are committed to eradicating this behavior from our force."

These changes align with All Naval Message (ALNAV) 021/17, released April 18, which updated U.S. Navy Regulations with Article 1168, making it unlawful to share an intimate image of someone without their permission for personal gain or to humiliate, harm, harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the depicted person or with reckless disregard

of harm to the victim.

Military Personnel Manual (MILPERSMAN) Article 1910-233, Mandatory Separation Processing, and MILPERSMAN 1910-142, Separation by Reason of Misconduct - Commission of a Serious Offense, have been updated to reflect this new policy for enlisted personnel.

This mandatory processing shall be conducted based upon the version of the MILPERSMAN in effect on the date the violation occurred. Officers who violate Article 1168 will be subject to administrative separation processing in accordance with SECNAVINST 1920.6C. For more information read NAVADMIN 119/17 at www.npc.navy.mil.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter. com/usnavy.

MAY 19, 2017

MAY 19, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

GAMEZONE CORDOBA GOURDE GUARANI GUILDER HRYVNIA KINA KORUNA KRONA KRONE KROON KUNA KWACHA KWANZA KYAT LEMPIRA LEONE LILANGENI LIRA LITAS

LOTI MANAT METICAL NAIRA NAKFA NEW CEDI NEW DONG NEW KIP NEW SHEKEL NGULTRUM OUGUIYA PATACA PESO POUND PULA QUETZAL RAND REAL RIAL

RINGGIT RIYAL RUBLE RUFIYAA RUPEE RUPIAH SHILLING SOM SUCRE SYLI TAKA TALA TENGE TOLAR VATU WON YEN YUAN RENMINBI ZLOTY

MEDIUM

AFGHANI ARIAYRY BAHT BALBOA BIRR BOLIVAR BOLIVIANO COLON DALASI DENAR DINAR DIRHAM DOLLAR DRAM ESCUDO EURO FORINT FRANC GOLD

EASY

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

The words may be hidden in any direction.

DIFFICULT

World Currencies

PAGE 13

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 14

Sitting is the New Smoking

By LT Katrina Lufty Health Promotion Department

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Americans are sitting an average of 13 hours per day.

From driving in the car, to working at a desk, to relaxing on the couch, we spend more time seated than ever before.

We all know that diet and ex-

ercise are vital in staving off chronic diseases and living a long, fulfilling life. But did you know that staying active throughout the day, between exercise sessions, is equally as important to your health?

Join us at our second installment of the Fitness At Your Desk Workshop on Wednesday, 24 May, at 1300 in the

Staff Education and Training (SEAT) building of the Hospital. Physical Therapy Technicians will teach us simple, invigorating exercises that can be done at your desk to improve posture, increase productivity, and prevent low back and wrist pain. To register, call Health Promotion at 624-4710.

MAY 19, 2017

"LINCOLN" cont'd from Pg. 7 becoming, ready for tasking on the open ocean.

The carrier began its RCOH period in March 2013. During the four- year evolution, Lincoln Sailors amassed more than 2.5 million man-hours toward the completion of RCOH. Sailors, shipyard workers and contractors worked side-byside on board the ship, working to achieve such milestones as refueling the ship's propulsion plant, modernizing combat systems and upgrading infrastructure all imperative to allowing the ship to serve another 25 years in the fleet.

"Approximately 33 percent of Lincoln's lifecycle maintenance was performed during this RCOH," said Cmdr. Hannah Kriewaldt, chief engineer. "Additionally, the crew took on an unprecedented volume of production and testing efforts. Every distributed system was secured,

retooled, and brought back to life. The shipbuilders, other maintenance providers, and ship's force should be very proud having breathed new life into Lincoln for another 25 years."

USS Abraham Lincoln is the fifth Nimitz-class aircraft carrier to complete RCOH, a major lifecycle milestone at Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries in Newport News. She returns to the fleet as one of the most modern and technologically-advanced Nimitz-class aircraft carriers in service and will continue to be a vital part of the nation's defense for an additional 25 years.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www. twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), visit www.navy.mil/local/ cvn72/.

MAY 19, 2017

"DIVORCE" continued from Page 6 court has ruled that marriage cannot be a business or a way of climbing up the social ladder (through big payouts),” he told Radio 24 on Thursday. Existing divorce settlements could also now be challenged in court, he said. “My phone has been ringing off the hook,” he said.

Divorce did not become legal in Italy until 1970. Originally, the law imposed a mandatory five-year separation period intended to make couples reconsider. In 1987, this was reduced to three years and slashed to just six months in 2015.

Gassani said in the 1970s, most women did not work meaning divorcees depended utterly on their alimony to survive. “However, times have changed and this ruling reflects that.”

In contrast to the Italian ruling, a London court ruled on Thursday that a former trader had to pay his estranged wife £453 million in one of the biggest divorce settlements in English legal history.

Italy to Make Vaccines Compulsory for Students

Story by The Local Italy’s health minister Beatrice Lorenzin said last Friday that the government planned to approve legislation banning non-vaccinated children from starting at state schools by the end of next week. She first made the announcement on Italian TV on Thursday night, when she said she had prepared a bill making vaccinations compulsory in order to attend school.

Lorenzin confirmed that she had presented the white paper to the Italian cabinet, and that it would be passed by decree within seven days.

She also described the fall in vaccination cover

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 15

across Italy as “an emergency generated by fake news.”

The minister has previously sounded the alarm over the recent rise in infectious diseases. In March, she called to “rapidly boost” vaccination cover and last November, she welcomed the decision of an Italian region to ban non-vaccinated children from public daycare centers.

Lorenzin has also shared photos of her threemonth-old twins getting their vaccines, saying, “Mums, don't be afraid.”

However, the move on Friday appeared to cause friction within the government, with Education Minister Valeria Fedeli said early on Friday that she was “astonished” by the way Lorenzin had pushed through the bill.

Recently re-elected Democratic Party leader Matteo Renzi commented: “The government is giving an impression of no coordination, and everyone doing what they feel like,” according to Il Sole 24 Ore. Fedeli later said: “We will work together to create a concrete way of making vaccines obligatory without infringing upon the right to education.”

Measles cases rose more than fivefold across Italy in April, compared to the same month last year, the National Health Institute said at the start of May, with a growing anti-vaccine movement believed to have contributed to the increase.

Meanwhile, up to 20,000 children in Treviso, northern Italy, are thought to be at risk of infectious diseases following revelations that an Italian nurse pretended to administer vaccines while really throwing away the vials.

Italy was one of the countries where discredited claims of a link between the combined measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination and autism had a significant impact on public perceptions of the safety of the jab. But Italy's Five Star Movement party has also been heavily criticized for its role in raising doubts over the efficacy of vaccinations.

Grillo accused The New York Times of "fake news" over an article titled “Populism, Politics and Measles” in which the paper said he had “campaigned actively on an anti-vaccination platform.”

“There is nothing to support this lie,” said Grillo in his blog, despite the fact that in 2014 the party proposed a law calling “for better information and possible denial of administering vaccinations” which Grillo was a signatory to.

The proposal included the line: “Recent studies have brought to light the link between vaccinations and specific illnesses such as leukemia, poisoning, inflammation, immunosuppression, inheritable genetic mutations, cancer, autism and allergies.”

Know Before You Go This Summer

By Robert Szostek USEUCOM Customs Public Affairs

WIESBADEN, Germany - People scheduled to move to the States this summer should start preparing now by separating things that are banned from import and finding new homes for them. It is also a good idea to apply early for import permits on restricted items, customs officials advise.

“Prohibited items include meat and meat products such as sausage, pâté and salami, as well as plants, plant products and all destructive devices,” said Tim Sellman, director of the U.S. European Command’s Customs and Border Clearance Agency.

Explosive caps, tear gas projectiles, artillery simulators, fireworks, etc. are examples of destructive devices, he added.

“If you’re planning on shipping firearms, ensure you have proof that you owned them in the States or have an import permit,” he went on.

Sellman also explained that other important points to remember are: • Owners of vehicles not made to U.S. standards have to

ship them through commercial importers registered with the Department of Transportation and Environmental Protection Agency. However, vehicles more than 25-years-old are exempt from this rule.

• Most mopeds and motorcycles must also meet U.S. safety and pollution standards, and all vehicles must be free of dirt, insects and vegetation.

• Wine collections can only be shipped with advance approval from the transportation office.

• Endangered species items such as ivory and some furs may only be shipped if owners can prove they were previously owned in the U.S., or are antiques over 100-years-old.

• State attorneys general must approve imports of gambling devices. These devices must be registered with the Justice Department in Washington, D.C. Need more details? Stop by your local military customs office or check out the military customs website at www.eur. army.mil/opm/customs/uscustoms.htm.

PAGE 16

THE SIGNATURE

MAY 19, 2017