The Signature, September 9, 2016

VBS: Fun, faith & fellowship

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Norway:

ARC:

More than Vikings

Fire Prevention Plan

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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September 9, 2016

Vol. 33 No. 34

Emergency Preparedness: Preparing Family and Friends

BY MR3 Veronqua Schaben Emergency Operations Center Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – This week’s topic for emergency preparedness is preparing family and friends. Here are a few easy steps to start your family emergency communication plan: 1. Understand how to receive emergency alerts and warnings. Make sure all household members are able to get alerts about an emergency from local officials.

Check with your local emergency management agency to see what is available in your area, and learn more about alerts by visiting: www.ready.gov/alerts.

2. Discuss family/household plans for disasters that may affect your area and plan where to go. Plan together in advance so that everyone in the household understands where to go during a different type of disaster like a hurricane, tornado, or wildfire.

3. Collect information. Create a paper copy of the contact information for your family that includes: • Phone (work, cell, office) • E-mail • Social media

• Medical facilities, doctors, service providers • School 4. Identify information and pick an emergency meeting place. Things to consider: * Decide on safe, familiar places where your family can go for protection or to reunite. * Make sure these locations are accessible for household members with disabilities or access and functional needs. * If you have pets or service animals, think about animal-friendly locations.

Examples of meeting places: * In your neighborhood: A mailbox at the end of the driveway, or a neighbor’s house. * Outside of your neighborhood: library, community center, place of worship, or family friend’s home. * Outside of your town or city: home of a relative or family friend. Make sure everyone knows the address of the meeting place and discuss ways you would get there.

5. Share information. Make sure everyone carries a copy in his or her backpack, purse, or wallet. You

should also post a copy in a central location in your home, such as your refrigerator or family bulletin board.

6. Practice your plan. Have regular household meetings to review your emergency plans, communication plans and meeting place after a disaster, and then practice, just like you would a fire drill.

Youth Preparedness • Sending the kids off to school? Make sure they know what to do in case of an emergency.

• Include your pet in your emergency preparedness plans.

• Nearly 70 million children are in school/childcare each workday. Make a family plan to know how to reunite during an emergency.

• Kids bored? We can help. Check out the online Ready Kids build a kit game: http://go.usa.gov/5hS5 • Ask your child's school for a copy of their emergency plan for you to keep at home or work.

• Fill out emergency contact numbers with your kids before they go For more information, visit www.ready.gov.

Sigonella Club Beyond Wraps Up Summer with X-Games BY mc2 gregory white

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Sigonella’s Club Beyond, a Chapel-based and community focused youth ministry for middle and high school students, recently wrapped up the summer with a series of sporting events and other fun competitions known as the X-Games.

Michael King, Club Beyond Community Director, said the X-Games are a great way for kids to finish the summer.

“Students new to Sigonella can meet friends before school starts, and we say good-bye to people leaving just about every week during the X-Games,” said King.

As transitioning students bid their farewells each week, others, brand new to the island, showed up to play. The games took place every Thursday evening during the month of August on Marinai’s soccer field. Middle and high school students were divided into two teams – a red team and a blue team. Two Club Beyond volunteer leaders headed each team.

Sigonella’s Youth Sports Director, Eric Barge and Aviation Structural Mechanic Petty Officer Second Class Jordan Simpson officiated the events.

“Some of the ways each team could earn points in addition to winning sport events were to display team spirit, impress a judge, and recruit new members,” said Simpson. They could also earn points by playing ‘Anything for a Point.’ One week, the ‘Anything for a Point’ game required a team leader to lay on the ground with a cup in his or her mouth while a member of the team stood on top of a picnic table and tried to squirt a full tube of toothpaste into the cup.

Simpson also said his favorite part of judging the events was when the kids tried to earn his favor points with bribes.

“The best bribe was a toss-up between the blue team donating food for the refugees and a cool shirt the red team made me,” said Simpson. “Obviously the blue team won the bribe, but I did really appreciate that shirt. The weirdest bribe I got was an old deep fryer. That thing was rancid.”

Each week the X-Games ended with discussions about sportsmanship, friendship, morals, and other life topics. It seemed to coincide perfectly with the Olympics.

“This year we had a lot of really good discussions about what it means to win

Sigonella middle and high school students play octaball at Club Beyond's 2016 X-Games. Octaball is a favorite among Sigonella's youth. (Photo courtesy of Sigonella Club Beyond) at life,” said King. “The X-Games is a chance for our adult leaders and students to get to know each other and develop a relationship through games and discussion.

Whatever great activity we do, Club Beyond is all about the healthy adult/student relationships that teens need so badly.”

Sigonella’s Club Beyond will make a ‘Back to School Blowout’ trip to Etnaland on September 10 for middle school and high school students. For more information about either Club Beyond Sigonella or the trip to Etnaland, contact Michael King at mking@clubbeyond.org.

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September 9, 2016

Direct Line

John Sisson, Navy Exchange General Manager Ciao Sigonella, My name is John Sisson and I have recently assumed the position of General Manager at your Sigonella Navy Exchange. Prior to this assignment, I was with the Navy Exchange in Naples from 2013 - 2016.

My family and I are extremely excited to be a part of the Sigonella community. I am joined here by my wife, Crystal, and our two young daughters, McKenna and Piper. With school just beginning, and at the top of parents’ and kids’ minds alike, I thought I would share one of the programs the Navy Exchange offers for school-aged children, the A-OK Student Reward Program.

The A-OK Student Reward Program is our way of supporting students in the military community by rewarding hard work and good grades. Since its inception, the A-OK Student Reward Program has awarded over $600,000 in U.S. savings bonds and monetary awards with the help of our generous vendor partners.

All qualified students that enter will participate in a quarterly drawing for monetary awards of $2,500, $1,500, $1,000 or $500 for a total of $5,500 per quarter. Qualified students include family members of active duty service

men and women, reservists, military retirees, and OCONUS DOD civilians in grades 1-12 who obtain a "B" grade average or equivalent.

To enter, just bring your report card from the last grading period to the NEX customer service desk at the NAS 1 main store, and fill out an entry form.

All eligible students receive an A-OK discount ID which qualifies you for discounts on over 19 items and services at your NEX including: • 15% OFF any backpack • $2.00 OFF any Nike Tee • $3.00 OFF any athletic shoe • 10% OFF any bicycle • FREE bag of Frito Lay • $3.00 OFF any Levis or Lee Jeans • FREE single candy bar I hope to see a multitude of entries this upcoming school year for the quarterly savings bond drawing, and perhaps we will see someone from Sigonella awarded from this great program this year!

Once again, I am very excited to be in Sigonella and I look forward to working with the community to provide quality goods and services for you and your family. In closing,

please let us know how we are doing. If there is a program or policy you would like to know more about, or if there are items you have grown to love in previous stations, and do not see them here, let us know, and we will do everything in our power to satisfy your needs.

Ticket Sales for the 241st Navy Birthday

NAVY BALL TICKET SALES Navy Ball Committee Ticket sales started on August 11, 2016 and will continue until tickets are sold out.

Point of Contact: LTJG Krista Morris Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4925 Point of Contact Email Address: krista.r.morris.mil@mail.mil Cost includes entrance to event, commemorative coin of event, and four-course dinner.

Prices: E1-E5: €40 E6-E8, O1-O3: €50 E9, O4-O7: €55

Please see your command representative for more information and to reserve your ticket!

DCS: YN2 James Sorrentino NASSIG Ops: ABF2 Taylor Vet Clinic: SPC Mancha Legal: LN1 McKinney AIMD: AM1 Briggs AFN: IC1 Derrance Dye PWD: LTJG Tom Runner FLC: HM2 Johanna Ruggs CTF-67: AO1 Enrico Dagsindal NAVSUP: ABFC Celocia, LS1 Hassan Global Hawk: SMSgt Robert Simpson NMCLANT DET SIG: GM1 Leah Warren NCTS: IT2 Casey Moore, IT2 Tyler Nichols SPMAGTF: HMC Narciso Fontecha, HM2 Brown USNHSIG: LT Tammy Nguyen and HM2 Joseph Aglubat

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September 9, 2016

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Safety Spotlight: Amanda Dennis, N8 Collateral Safety Duty Officer

U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

In this week’s Safety Spotlight, we would like to recognize Mrs. Amanda Dennis, NAS Sigonella Financial Management Analyst. Mrs. Dennis is the travel point-of-contact for NASSIG as well as the agency program coordinator (APC), for the government travel card program.

As the Collateral Safety Duty Officer she monitors safety training, manages ESAMS, and requests and tracks deficiency corrections identified during safety inspections.

Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski

“I started working here last November after my husband and I moved here from Norfolk, VA. This is my first DOD job.

My husband, Lt. Leonard Dennis, is the Production Officer for the Public Works department. We plan on being here for two more years.”

Name: AE3 Anthony Kirchner Dept: AIMD Sigonella Hometown: Vintondale, Pa. AE3 Kirchner advances his skill set as a dual work center supervisor in AIMD Sigonella. He is in charge of workcenter 710 - ordnance shop and 62CD - battery locker.

"It's a fast-paced work environment here, but I do it to help out the command and ultimately the mission."

Kirchner has only been in the Navy for three years but he's worked hard to get to where he is today. "I enjoy working and being handson by teaching other Sailors what I've learned."

In the battery locker, we

charge the batteries to support the equipment and aircraft. We also test pylons and missile launchers.

One of the many challenges Kirchner faces at work is when equipment breaks and they can't order the parts because they don't

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manufacture them anymore. So they have to try to figure out how they can acquire the right parts and fix the rest of the gear.

One of the most rewarding feelings for Kirchner is when he returns the gear back to the squadron so

they can do their mission effectively and safely.

Kirchner is hoping to make second class petty officer soon as he shoulders two work centers as a third class. Although he hasn't been selected for orders, he would like to go to a ship stationed in Washington or Japan.

But before he leaves to go to the other side of the world, there are a few places he would like to visit here in Europe. He has already visited mainland Italy, Switzerland, Germany and London. "I love Germany because it reminds me of where I'm from - lots of woods to go hiking and more rural."

Kirchner encourages his fellow shipmates to learn everything they can. "Take any opportunity that's there and use it as a learning tool."

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 PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil YN2 Gabrielle Milly gabrielle.milly@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.

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September 9, 2016

Before the Earth Shakes

By Niki McBain Emergency Operations Center

For as long as scientists have been tracking earthquakes Italy has been at the height of the risk profile. This risk profile, which takes into account population, structural integrity along with coping capacity, ranks Italy as number 82 out of all of the countries in the world according to a 2014 study by the Universite Catholique de Louvain Brussels- Belgium. What does this mean for us living in Sigonella?

It is never too early to prepare for the earth to move.

“Emergency Preparedness is something everyone in your family should be involved with,” notes Beth Bruner, Emergency Dispatch and Operations Center Manager for NASSIG. “Making sure every person in your family is trained and ready to respond is critical since you never know when a disaster will strike. The next earthquake here in Sicily may be when your family is all together at home, or it may be when your family is spread apart at work and at school.” Bruner goes on to note that personnel should be prepared with a go-kit at home, in your car and at work in case the disaster is such that you are unable to return back to a safe place or if you are forced

to shelter in place. Some of the items she recommends for this kit include items for every person and animal in your family are: water, typically 1 gallon per person per day for three days; food; medication for a minimum of three days; extra clothing and blankets; flashlights with batteries; and any other comfort items your family may want during an extended time such as tablets with solar generation back-ups and games.

PO3 Veronqua Schaben, who oversees Emergency Preparedness for NASSIG also recommends that personnel have a plan for emergencies.

“Families should be prepared for any kind of disaster that may strike the area where they live, whether it is a house fire, or an earthquake.” Schaben reminds families that personnel should not only make the plan, but practice it as well.

“Practicing what to do in an emergency ensures that your family has the motions down when they really need to put the action into place. If you haven’t practiced, you will spend valuable time trying to remember what steps to take, time that can make the ultimate difference in your family’s safety.” In an earthquake, personnel are encouraged to move away from any heavy objects like bookcases and crouch against the wall with your

hands covering your neck in an effort to protect yourself from anything falling.

If you are outside, you should move to an area where there are no large trees, overhead power lines, or other items that may fall on you.

In addition to making a disaster supply kit and a plan for what to do during an earthquake, personnel should also take steps around their home and office to mitigate against the damage that an earthquake can cause. Bruner provides these easy steps, “Take a good inventory of your home. If you have heavy objects on

higher shelves consider placing them lower or securing them with earthquake putty so that when the shaking starts, the objects won’t become projectiles. Remember to strap your book cases, dressers and other top heavy items to the wall. This step is important even outside of disaster preparedness if you have children who like to climb around your home.

Simple steps can make a huge difference during a disaster.”

If you would like more information on getting prepared for earthquakes or any other kind of disaster, visit www. ready.navy.mil or call 624-8328.

Need an appointment at the hospital?

Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial: 095-56-2273, M - F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the Weekend, Holidays, or after office hours, please call the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider?

Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)

September 9, 2016

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Sigonella Youth Participate in VBS

By Chaplain lt Brian Myers Religious Ministries Department NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – When parents dropped off their children Aug. 22-26 for Vacation Bible School (VBS) in the blazing heat at 9 am VBS leaders had just one goal: to give these military kids—living in another country, far from friends and family—the most meaningful week of their summer.

Children met their crew leaders, who ushered them into the sanctuary of the NAS I Chapel and into the world of “Deep Sea Discovery.” At “Celebration Reef,” children sang, danced, and learned a central point each day: God knows me, God hears me, God strengthens me, God loves me, and God sends me.

The energized and talented Jen Franzke served as the master of ceremonies and taught each daily message.

The worship team consisted of Lt. Cmdr. Tracy Harp, Jen Bayer, Andrew Taylor, and Lt. Brian Myers. During “Celebration Reef,” the children learned to apply the central Bible message, “God is with me and will watch over me where I go” (Genesis 28:15).

Following the opening lesson and songs, children were presented a mission’s moment taught by Back2Back Missions, a non-profit organization that provides care for orphans all over the world. Following the mission’s moment, children had the opportunity to contribute to a service organization called Samaritan’s Purse which provides spiritual and physical aid such as disaster relief. For every $100 donated to Samaritan’s Purse, on the closing day, Chaplain Myers received a pie in the face. The total contribution of $561.58 resulted in five pies.

After Celebration Reef, the children went to their designated “stations,” which included: Bible Stories (“S.S Discovery”), Crafts and Science (“Curiosity Cavern”), and many other exciting activities, with a snack served to all the kids in the middle of their station times. Station leaders and volunteers were

hand selected for their position and invested their heart and soul into teaching the children about God’s love. Following the stations and snack, the children returned to “Celebration Reef,” where they finished each day with more singing, laughing, worship, and fun group activities.

This year’s VBS would not have been possible without all the volunteers who worked directly and indirectly with the children all week. From high school students, college students, and members of the NASSIG community who helped to lead and direct the children, to deployed Marines, Chaplains, Religious Program Specialists, and others who worked behind the scenes cleaning up and making sure everything ran smoothly—everyone played an integral role in the success of the week. In particular, Information System Technicians, Third Class Don Partner, from Naval Communications Telecommunications Station (NCTS) went above and beyond the “call of volunteering,” by helping in almost every way possible.

IT3 Partner took a week of leave in order to run audio and video, lead the game station, and help set up and tear down. His efforts not only served as a tremendous example to the kids (and adults!) but made the week memorable to the kids and ensured the chapel was prepared for weekend services.

Miriam Franzke, one of the children attending VBS remarked, “I had an awesome time, and really enjoyed the S.S Discovery, which focused on reading the Bible and learning about serving God by serving others!”

Based off of the kids’ reactions at the end of the week, the VBS leaders accomplished their goal: VBS was a tremendously meaningful week for all who attended.

On behalf of the Chapel staff, and all the children who attended VBS, thanks to all the incredible volunteers for making this event a great and enjoyable time! Last, but not least, a special thank you goes out to Danielle Dixon for organizing and overseeing the protestant VBS this year.

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September 9, 2016

Mass Funeral for Victims of Italy Earthquake in Amatrice Story by The Guardian

Italy held a poignantly symbolic funeral for victims of last month’s earthquake on Aug. 30 amid the ruins of Amatrice, the small town that bore the brunt of the disaster. Italian president, Sergio Mattarella; prime minister, Matteo Renzi; and a senior representative of Pope Francis were among hundreds of mourners at the service on the edge of the hilltop where 231 of the quake’s 292 confirmed fatalities occurred.

The coffins of 38 victims were laid out for a service held just yards from piles of collapsed masonry, a hastily-constructed temporary structure allowing the solemn funeral mass to proceed under cover from the rain.

Relatives and friends gathered around the caskets, including those of two small children, which were carried into the tent in pouring rain on Tuesday after a summer storm broke over Amatrice, the worst-hit town in the Aug. 24 quake. The names of the victims were read out at the start of the funeral.

Builders had worked through the night to prepare the funeral site after residents said they would boycott the ceremony when they found out authorities planned to hold it in Rieti, more than 35 miles (60km) away. The bodies were originally taken to Rieti because officials said it would be easier to hold a mass funeral there than in Amatrice, but Renzi ordered a change of plan in the face of people’s anger.

In the center of Amatrice, voted one of Italy’s most beautiful areas last year, crews continued to dig for bodies under mounds of rubble left by the 6.2-magnitude quake.

“There are families which have been destroyed. We must give them hope,” said Don Sante Bertarelli, who was a priest in Amatrice for 15 years and returned to help comfort his former parishioners after the disaster.

Many of those who died in Amatrice were not residents and their funerals were being held in their home towns. Rome mayor Virginia Raggi, attended Tuesday’s funeral to pay her respects to the more than 80 residents of the capital who died.

A number of foreigners were also among the dead, including 11 Romanians and three Britons. The Romanian prime minister, Dacian Cioloş, attended the funeral. A fireman used a rope to hoist a wooden statue of Christ, borrowed from a nearby church, above a makeshift altar for Tuesday’s service. Hours before the ceremony, relatives placed bouquets of flowers and pictures of their loved ones on the coffins.

In the town center, emergency workers used mechanical diggers and bulldozers to search for bodies, with up to 10 people still believed to be missing under the debris. The rain, however, the first since the earthquake, complicated the search efforts. It was the second state-sponsored funeral in three days. On Saturday, Aug. 26, a service was held for victims from the adjoining Marche region. Amatrice is in the region of Lazio.

Controversy has grown over poor construction techniques, which may have been responsible for some of the deaths.

Investigators are looking into work done on Accumoli’s bell tower, which was recently restored but collapsed during the earthquake on to the home of a family of four, killing them all.

A court sequestered the half-demolished school building in Amatrice, which had recently been remodelled in part to help it withstand earthquakes.

Italy sits on two seismic faultlines. Many of its buildings are hundreds of years old and susceptible to earthquake damage.

Almost 30 people died in earthquakes in northern Italy in 2012 and more than 300 in the city of L’Aquila in 2009.

(UPDATE by ANSA Rome, September 5) - The death toll from the earthquake in central Italy rose to 295 after the body of a young Afghan was found in the rubble of Amatrice, the

"EARTHQUAKE" continued on Page 15

On Aug. 24, a devastating 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck near Norcia in Umbria, central Italy, at around 3:30 am local time leaving 295 dead including infants and children. The hardest-hit towns were Amatrice and Accumoli. The quake left some 2,500 people homeless and shook buildings in the capital, Rome, about 100 miles away, and was felt across Italy and Croatia. (Photo courtesy of Daily Mail)

September 9, 2016

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World War II Veteran Laid to Rest After 75 Years

By mc3 Charles D. Gaddis IV Navy Public Affairs Support Element Public Affairs

BREMERTON, Wash. (NNS) -- World War II veteran Lt. Julian Jordan was laid to rest at the Lewis Funeral Chapel at Naval Base Kitsap (NBK) 75 years after the attack on Pearl Harbor, Aug. 29.

Jordan was assigned to Nevada-class battleship USS Oklahoma (BB 37) as the assistant engineering officer, at the age of 37, when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor where the ship was moored.

"The only reason we can do what we do today with our freedoms and liberties is because of what those who came before us accomplished," said Machinist's Mate 2nd Class David Gorey, assigned to NBK. "With what's going on in the world today, it puts it all into perspective."

Jordan's remains were recovered from Oklahoma along with many of his shipmates, but were unidentified until recently through DNA profiling.

"This is a very gratifying moment and it has been a long time coming," said Julian "Jay" Remers, the grandson of the World War II hero. "We've been eagerly anticipating this time to come."

Sailors assigned to NBK participated in the ceremony in dress uniforms to honor Jordan.

"It's an honor to participate in this ceremony; to have active-duty personnel render full honors is a privilege," said Lt. Alfredo Lozano, assigned to NBK. "We don't get this opportunity very often and to lay to rest a World War II veteran means the Navy still holds tradition and the highest regard to our veterans."

The traditional 21-gun salute was demonstrated during the ceremony alongside "Taps" played on the bugle.

"I'm humbled and honored to be here with the family and assist them lay to rest a World War II hero," said Senior Chief Machinist's Mate (Auxiliary) Jerrold Bishop, assigned to Trident Training Facility Bangor. "It is important to remember those who gave their lives to ensure our freedoms."

A folded American flag alongside a pouch holding the shell casings from the 21-gun salute was delivered to the family before Jordan was lowered into the ground.

Sailors assigned to Naval Base Kitsap fold the National Ensign over the remains of World War II veteran Lt. Julian Jordan. Jordan was 37 years old when the attack on Pearl Harbor took place and he was indentified with the use of DNA profiling after his body was exhumed from the Nevada-class battleship USS Oklahoma (BB 37).

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Charles D. Gaddis IV/Released) "I didn't know a lot about my father," said Ann Jordan Remers, daughter of Jordan, "but we had been talking about this day and I'm happy that we could finally lay my father to rest."

Suicide Prevention: Knowing When to Seek Help is a Sign of Strength

Lt. Courtney Aksdal, a clinical social worker at Naval Hospital Jacksonville™s mental health clinic, assesses a patient. In September, Navy Medicine joins the nation in recognizing Suicide Prevention Month. Knowing when to seek help is a sign of strength. (U.S. Navy photo by Jacob Sippel, Naval Hospital Jacksonville Public Affairs/Released).

By Yan Kennon Naval Hospital Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide was the 10th leading cause of death for all ages in the U.S. in 2013 -- a rate of about 113 deaths each day.

Building resilience and preventing suicide requires all members of the Navy and Marine Corps community to work together.

Suicide prevention is about being there for every Sailor, Marine, and family member, every day.

"People are our greatest asset," said Dr. Kirsten Pollick, Naval Hospital (NH) Jacksonville's Mental Health Clinic department head and neuropsychologist. "Our goal is to reduce the risk factors for suicide and strengthen the factors that promote resilience."

Suicide can be a complex behavioral response influenced by a multitude of factors within one's personal life experience.

These potentially include individual, relational, community, or societal circumstances; or any combination thereof. Specific risk factors and stressors associated with suicidality have been linked to illness, isolation, family and marital discord, financial issues, depressive disorders or other mental health concerns -- including prior suicidal ideation or attempts -impulsive behaviors, lack of sleep, or changes in brain chemicals due to alcohol or drug abuse.

Warning signs include thoughts or comments about suicide, substance abuse, purposelessness, anxiety, feeling trapped or hopeless, withdrawal, anger, recklessness, and mood changes.

Effective treatments and interventions are available for depression, situational stressors, and other health problems that are risk factors for suicide. Understanding warning signs and risk factors can help prevent, identify, and enable early intervention to save lives.

Tips to help Sailors and Marines stay mission-ready include: Find time for oneself -- Improve sleep habits, try yoga or meditation, participate in enjoyable activities.

Break down obstacles -- Break challenges down into small steps and tackle one at a time.

Improve physical conditioning -- Regular physical training strengthens the muscles and the mind.

Avoid alcohol and substance misuse -- In order to manage

stress, sleep, relationships, and responsibilities.

Identify people to turn to when in need -- Identify a friend, family member, chaplain, or health care professional to speak with.

For free, confidential support 24/7, call the Military Crisis Line at 800-273-TALK (8255), text message to 838255, or chat online at http://www.veteranscrisisline.net/. The Crisis Line is available to current and former service members, their families, and friends.

Active-duty personnel can schedule an appointment with their primary care manager (PCM) at 904-546-7094. The PCM can make a referral to mental health. For urgent needs, the Mental Health Clinic is available for walk-ins. Call the Mental Health Clinic at 904-546-6351 for more information.

The Deployment Health Center (904-546-7099) also offers pre- and post-deployment physical and mental health services.

Family members, retirees, and retiree families can call TRICARE Value Options at 800-700-8646 for mental health care. In addition, the hospital's family medicine clinic has mental health specialists on-site.

For someone in immediate danger, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Remember to ACT (Ask, Care, Treat). ASK if someone is depressed and if they are thinking about suicide. Let them know you CARE. Get them assistance (TREATment) as soon as possible.

Every life lost to suicide is one too many.

Marking its 75th year, NH Jacksonville's priority since its founding in 1941 is to heal the nation's heroes and their families. The command is comprised of the Navy's third largest hospital and five branch health clinics across Florida and Georgia. Of its patient population -- 163,000 active and retired Sailors, Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, guardsmen, and their families -- about 85,000 are enrolled with a primary care manager and Medical Home Port team at one of its facilities.

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September 9, 2016

Norway: More Than Vikings By lt andriana genualdi NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

I recently went on a trip to Oslo, Norway with a friend for a long weekend.

Since we were only going to be there for three and a half days we decided to stick close to the city instead of venturing out to do hiking around some of the fjords. The first evening we arrived we decided to have dinner at a restaurant in the center of the downtown area right next to the church. My eye immediately went to the dish that listed whale, and I had to have it. It was actually quite good, the taste and texture are hard to describe though.

We wandered over to the Oslo Cathedral and saw it was open to visitors and decided to take a quick look. The ceiling is painted beautifully, and there is a very detailed sculpture of the last supper, as well as a beautiful pipe organ.

The next morning we made our way to the tourist information center by the main train station to buy the Oslo Pass. Available for one, two, or three day periods, the pass allowed us access to almost all of the museums and historical sites, as well as access to public transportation including the ferries. Right next to the main station there is a giant statue of a tiger that many people take photos with, we even saw groups of people getting climbing up onto its back.

Almost everything that we wanted to see was within walking distance of our hotel in the city. The downtown is very picturesque with a large pedestrian area that leads to a view of the palace, and it is lined with shops and restaurants. We

found the city to be a little more on the expensive side of things in terms of food prices and while shopping, but the Oslo Pass helped to eliminate some of the charges that would have come with transportation.

There is a fortress in the heart of the city called Akershus Fortress, the building was constructed in the 13th century and you can access it with the Oslo Pass. It offers great views of the port, the city, and the fjord as well as housing a military museum.

One of the few times we left the city was to take the ferry over to the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Viking Ship Museum that are both located on another peninsula of the fjord. The ferry ride is fun and allows you to get a quick view of the fjord and snap some good photos. The Cultural History museum was very cool, a lot of it was outdoors and consisted of actual period buildings showing how Norwegians used to live. Museum employees dress in period clothing, and there is a traditional music and dance performance every few hours throughout the day.

The day we left we went up to the Holmenkollbakken ski jump that is outside of the city. The jump includes a museum about the history of skiing in Norway, ski designs, and shows the different iterations the jump has gone through to reach the size and height it is today. During the summer you can even zip line from the top all the way down if you're brave enough! We spent the rest of the day before our flight sightseeing in the famous Vigeland sculpture park and in the grounds of the royal palace, both of which were beautiful.

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September 9, 2016

All Hands News Bulletin: FULL-TIME TEMPORARY EMPLOYMENT: SAF REGIONAL PROGRAM MANAGER Command, Department or Organization: American Red Cross Sigonella Date of Event: September 2016 Location of Event: American Red Cross, NAS I Bldg. 318 Point of Contact Name: Shams Kadum; DSN: 624-4900; Email: shams.kadum@redcross.org Additional Information: To view job posting or to apply, visit https://americanredcross.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/en-US/American_Red_Cross_ Careers/job/Sigonella-Italy/SAF-Regional-Program-Manager---Temporary_NHQ673311. The Requisition number is "NHQ67331".

USO CENTER IN SIGONELLA NOW HIRING FOR FULL TIME POSITIONS The USO is seeking professionals for full-time positions for a Center Manager and two Center Operation Specialists for their new USO Center in Sigonella. These professional figures will be responsible to maintain a warm, friendly, inviting environment for service members and families as well as assist in transiting passengers, support day-to-day center activities and plan and execute support programs and initiatives for the community in Sigonella.

To apply, please log on to www.uso.org/careers. If you wish to send a courtesy copy of your resume and cover letter, to the USO Area Director, Ms. Sabrina Pullido, you may do so by emailing SPullido@uso.org. Must be a US Citizen and a Military Dependent US ID cardholder.

LIFE INSURANCE OPEN SEASON FOR DOD CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES For the first time in 12 years, the Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program is having an open season from SEPTEMBER 1, 2016 to SEPTEMBER 30, 2016. If you are a Federal employee eligible for FEGLI, you can elect any coverage that FEGLI offers during the month of September this year.

If you would like to make changes to your existing life insurance benefits, be sure to elect ALL coverage, not just the coverage you want to add or increase. Any coverage you do not elect is waived or cancelled. If you do not wish to make any changes to your current FEGLI benefits, no action is required. You do not need to be currently enrolled in FEGLI to elect coverage during the Open Season and there is no medical examination required or medical questions to be answered in order to enroll.

Elections made during FEGLI Open Season have a one-year delayed effective date.

This means that the coverage you elect in the September 2016 FEGLI Open Season will be effective on the first day of the first full pay period on or after October 1, 2017, as long as you meet the pay and duty status requirements. Your new premiums will be effective when your new coverage is effective which means you will not pay your new premiums during the one-year waiting period.

For more information about FEGLI Open Season please visit https://www.opm.gov/ healthcare-insurance/life-insurance/open-season/. Inorder to make the changes or add insurance options, it's as easy as logging in to your EBIS account and making the desired changes through the "Transactions" section.

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 ROMAN CATHOLIC • Sunday - 9 a.m. Catholic Mass at NAS 1 Chapel • Tuesday - Friday - 11:30 a.m. at NAS 1 or NAS 2 Chapel PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICE • Sunday - 11 a.m. Traditional Worship at NAS 1 Chapel; 6 p.m. Non-Denominational Sunday at NAS 2 Chapel • Wednesday - 7 p.m. Bible Study at NAS 2 PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049

CLUB BEYOND • Middle School Club & Small Group - Tuesday - 2:45 - 4:45 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel • High School Club and Small Group - Wednesdays - 6 - 8 p.m. at Marinai Home Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel

Weekly Traffic Reports: August 29 - Sept. 5, 2016

Ristorante Bella Etna

Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.

Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4 - 6 p.m.

Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.

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.

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Fleet Master Chief Steven Giordano has been selected as the 14th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON). (U.S. Navy photo/Released)

13th MCPON Retires, 14th Takes Charge

By MC1 Martin L. Carey Office of the MCPON

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Michael D. Stevens was relieved by Fleet Master Chief Steven S. Giordano during his retirement and change of office ceremony held on Washington Navy Yard Sept. 2. Stevens served as the 13th MCPON for the past four years and served over 33 years on active duty.

"I will forever be humbled by the opportunity I was given to serve in the United States Navy and be trusted to lead and advocate for America's greatest treasure -- those that wear the cloth of our nation and have sworn an oath to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic," Stevens said during his speech.

He continued, speaking about his service as the 13th MCPON. "I've often been asked 'What was your number one goal as the MCPON?' My answer has never changed - 'As a leader, it has always been my primary goal to establish and maintain the conditions that provide all of our people with the

opportunity to be successful. And to do this while treating one another with dignity and respect,'" said Stevens.

He concluded, "Tonight I will remove my uniform for the last time and will not wear it again until my eternal rest--but I do this with a smile on my face, knowing that I will always be a Sailor that served in the greatest Navy in the world."

After Stevens spoke, he and Giordano conducted the ceremonial 'Passing of the Cutlass,' symbolizing the change of office, and Giordano assuming the title of the 14th MCPON. Giordano then delivered remarks saying, "Admiral, I am honored to have been afforded this opportunity and it is one I do not take lightly."

He continued, "Now with one foot anchored smartly on the history and heritage of our service, and one foot stepping forward into the future, I look forward to serving this great Navy of ours as the 14th master chief petty officer of the Navy with all the reverence, respect and action incumbent on the office."

Following the ceremony a small reception was held where friends, loved ones and shipmates bid MCPON Mike and Theresa Stevens farewell and welcomed MCPON Steven and Elka Giordano.

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September 9, 2016

GAMEZONE Movie Actors 1

MCKELLEN, Ian NEESON, Liam PESCI, Joe PHOENIX, Joaquin REEVES, Keanu RUSH, Geoffrey RUSSELL, Kurt SPACEY, Kevin STATHAM, Jason TRAVOLTA, John VOIGHT, Jon WAHLBERG, Mark WEAVING, Hugo WOOD, Elijah

MEDIUM

DOUGLAS, Michael DUNCAN, Michael Clarke FORD, Harrison FOXX, Jamie GIBSON, Mel GOLDBLUM, Jeff GRANT, Hugh GYLLENHAAL, Jake HACKMAN, Gene HARTNETT, Josh IRONS, Jeremy JACKMAN, Hugh JONES, James Earl LAW, Jude MCCONAUGHEY, Matthew

EASY

BACON, Kevin BARDEM, Javier BLACK, Jack BRIDGES, Jeff CAINE, Michael CARREY, Jim CHAN, Jackie CLOONEY, George COSTNER, Kevin CUSACK, John DAMON, Matt DANIELS, Jeff DEPP, Johnny DICAPRIO, Leonardo

DIFFICULT

Find and circle all of the Movie Actors that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell the name of a movie for which Jeremy Irons won an Oscar.

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September 9, 2016

American Red Cross Fire Prevention Plan

By Bernard Malvoisin American Red Cross Disaster Action Team

Each year, approximately 20,000 people are injured in home fires. Fires spread quickly. Often there is no time to gather valuables or even make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames. Fires that take place in homes as well as dormitories, barracks or hotels are the single most common disaster in the US. No matter what the location, the key to surviving this type of disaster is to be prepared and to have a plan.

Part of being prepared for a fire is having one or more working fire extinguishers in your home. There are three home fire extinguisher ratings: “A” rated extinguishers are for wood or paper fires only. “B” rated extinguishers are for flammable liquid and grease fires and “C” rated extinguishers are for electrical fires.

Most popular for home use is the multi-use extinguisher which is rated for class A-B-C-type fires.

Extinguishers are only recommended if you have been trained by the fire department. Remember the word “PASS” when using a fire extinguisher: • Pull the pin.

• Aim low.

• Squeeze the lever.

• Sweep from side to side.

A large part of being prepared for a fire is the installation of smoke alarms. Sixty-five percent of house fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. By installing smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas, you will reduce the chance of a fire fatality by nearly half. Remember to replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year, and immediately install a new battery if an alarm ‘chirps,’ which is an audible warning that the battery is low.

Having an alarm is important but remembering to test it to make sure that it is functional at least once a month is just as important. While testing your alarms, it is also a good time to teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one. Teach your children not to be scared of firefighters. Take them to your local fire department to meet them and learn about fire safety.

Only 26% of families have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan. Be prepared, develop a fire escape plan and practice with the entire household several times a year and review the basics like stop, drop and roll, low crawling with your head at a level of one to two feet above the ground, and to get out of the house away from the toxic smoke and gases first, then call for help. Establish a meeting place outside, and make sure to have at least two escape routes for each room even if it means utilizing an escape ladder for bedrooms on the second or third floor.

Follow your escape plan in the event of a fire emergency.

Remember to GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL 9-1-1 or your local emergency phone number. For more information on emergency preparedness, including fire safety, contact your local American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces chapter or on the web at www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/ types-of-emergencies.

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"EARTHQUAKE" continued on Page 6 head of the civil protection department, Fabrizio Curcio, said last Monday. The toll was particularly "dramatic and tragic," he said. The Aug. 24 quake hit mountain villages in the central Apennines, razing much of Amatrice and Accumoli in Lazio and Arquata del Tronto in neighboring Marche.

Quake: Keep Mafia Away, Says Top Prosecutor Story by ANSA ROME, Italy – Authorities must ensure organized crime doesn't get its hands on lucrative reconstruction contracts in the aftermath of a deadly 6.2-magnitude earthquake that razed several mountain villages to the ground in central Italy, National Anti-Mafia and Anti-Terror Prosecutor Franco Roberti told RAI public radio last Monday.

Roberti said prevention is crucial in the phases preceding reconstruction, i.e. rubble and debris removal, shoring up damaged buildings, and erecting temporary wooden homes for the thousands of displaced survivors.

"There is an immediate risk of organized crime infiltration in this preliminary phase," Roberti told RAI's Voci del Mattino (Morning Voices) program. He also said authorities had successfully prevented organized crime from infiltrating reconstruction work after a 2009 earthquake in the Abruzzo city of L'Aquila, which killed over 300 people. "Prevention in this field is complex but not impossible," he said.

The Aug. 24 quake in central Italy has so far claimed the lives of 295 people and caused millions in damages in several mountain towns in the Lazio, Marche, and Umbria regions.

The initial search-and-rescue phase is over as thousands of survivors have been removed to safety in Civil Protection tent camps or other lodgings. Authorities must now focus on removing mountains of debris and rubble while organizing massive reconstruction work in the worst-hit areas, including the Lazio and Marche villages of Accumoli, Amatrice and Pescara del Tronto, which were almost completely destroyed.

Provisional Wood Mini-Cities Aim to Keep Communities Together Story by ANSA

L'AQUILA, Italy – Italian authorities are preparing to build "miniature" towns out of wood to house those affected by the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that hit a mountainous area of central Italy on Aug. 24.

PAGE 15 The wooden towns will be based on a plan that includes services such as churches, newspaper stands and bars, and are aimed at keeping communities united and making sure that survivors do not abandon their badly damaged villages.

A mass funeral was held on Tuesday evening for some 38 of the 292 victims of the earthquake in the village of Amatrice, which sustained by far the greatest losses with 231 confirmed dead.

The housing solution, known as "Map," is similar to a system adopted in the aftermath of the April 2009 earthquake in the area of L'Aquila in the Abruzzo region, which housed about 5,000 people. Luigi Calvisi, a former mayor of the small town of Fossa which was hit by the 2009 earthquake, said following the system helped keep people together.

"My doubt was: if we just build houses, if we do not come up with something else, where will we all meet? For that reason, we designed a complete project," he said. "Our village is different to others: it has a central square, a playground, a church, a pharmacy, a bar, a grocery, a football field, and then 150 houses with 150 gardens," he said. He added that he hoped the system could become a model for Amatrice.

Other towns badly affected by the recent earthquake include Accumoli, Arquata del Tronto, Pescara del Tronto and Norcia.

Charlie Hebdo Italy Earthquake Cartoon Sparks Anger Story by BBC.com

Satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo has been criticized on social media for a cartoon depicting Italian earthquake victims as pasta dishes. The cartoon featured in the current issue refers to the town of Amatrice, one of the areas hardest hit by the 6.2 magnitude earthquake last month. Amatrice is home of spaghetti all'amatriciana, a dish with ingredients including tomato sauce, and guanciale ham.The image shows an injured man and a woman standing next to a pile of rubble from which feet can be seen. Each of the standing figures has been named after a pasta dish.

The bandaged man is shown under the words “penne tomato sauce,” a woman with burns is depicted as “penne gratin,” and bodies lying beneath layers of rubble as lasagne all beneath the heading "Earthquake, Italian style."

The cartoon which is being circulated on social media has attracted huge criticism globally and in Italy it has made the pages of Italian national newspapers La Stampa and Corriere della Sera.

It is not the first time #CharlieHebdo has been used on social media to express outrage at one of its cartoons and the magazine is no stranger to criticism. In 2015 it published a controversial cartoon of the young Syrian refugee Alan Kurdi who drowned while fleeing Syria and has also posted controversial sketches of the Prophet Muhammad.

Despite the current controversy the publication has also been seen as a beacon for free speech, with many of its defenders using the hashtag #JeSuisCharlie to defend the publication and its articles particularly following the attack on its offices in 2015.

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