The Signature | September 8, 2017

From the Base Energy Manager Water Conservation Tips

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Theft

USO

Protect Yourself from Becoming a Victim

Calendar of Events

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

Vol. 34 No. 33

NAS Sigonella’s Incident Management Team Conducts Emergency Response Exercise

By Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas

NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

The Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Incident Management Team (IMT) tested their ability to support the recovery and response efforts of an aircraft mishap during an exercise Aug. 31.

The drill scenario involved a gear up emergency landing of a C-26 Fairchild aircraft.

While the role of NAS Sigonella’s first responders such as security, medical and fire emergency personnel is to provide immediate response and control the scene of an emergency, the role of EOC-IMT personnel is to manage the incident from the EOC which is the command and control point for response and recovery efforts.

“Response time is critical,” said John Smithgall, NAS Sigonella’s Fire Department Chief. “With aircraft incidents, the worst can happen within the first few minutes. The support EOC IMT personnel provide to first responders on the scene of an emergency is vital, and training like this helps ensure both on and off scene response efforts are automatic. It should be muscle memory.”

To remain prepared, IMT must continue to learn, train, and develop expertise in response operations.

“Training like this helps ensure we are prepared to provide an organized and streamlined response before an incident ever occurs,” said Hull Technician 2nd Class Corbin Cooney, emergency management training team member. “It’s exercises like these that help emergency management identify and fix any problem areas, and not trying to figure it out during a real world emergency.”

In addition to supporting initial re-

Sicily (Aug. 31, 2017) - Members of NAS Sigonella's Incident Management Team coordinate response and recovery efforts in the emergency operations center during an aircraft mishap exercise. NAS Sigonella is an operational ashore base that enables U.S., allied, and partner nation forces to be where they are needed and when they are needed to ensure security and stability in Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas/Released)

sponse efforts during an aircraft mishap emergency, the IMT coordinates long term response efforts and works to ensure the base’s air operations return to full mission capabilities. A key line of operation for Navy Region Europe, Africa, and Southwest Asia Air Operations is, along with the seven other lines of operations of security, port operations, safety, housing, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), Fleet and

Fleet and Family services, and the core.

These lines are what enable the installations to ensure U.S. and allied forces are able to conduct the full spectrum of operations throughout the region.

“Our IMT must be prepared for any disaster that happens on the base,” said Beth Bruner, emergency management officer. “The IMTs number one priority is responding to assist personnel and second is determining the impact to

mission. We need to make sure that air operations and critical missions continue.”

The EOC is always on standby and can be fully activated an engaged in emergency response at a moment’s notice. The IMT sections include recovery, medical, environmental, operations, planning, safety, legal, administration, logistics, finance and public affairs.

CNIC Encourages Sailors, Families to Prepare for Emergencies From Navy Installations Command Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -September is National Emergency Preparedness Month.

Commander, Navy Installations Command's (CNIC) Ready Navy Program educates Sailors and their families on how to be prepared when an emergency occurs. This year's overall theme is "Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can." Each week in September will have a focused theme: Make a Plan for Yourself, Family and Friends; Plan to Help Your Neighbor and Community; Practice and Build Out Your Plans; and Get Involved! Be a Part of Something Larger.

"National Preparedness Month educates us all to be informed, make a plan, build a kit, and stay informed, not just for a month, but every day," said Jeff Sanford, CNIC emergency management specialist.

"Ready Navy provides a road map and creates a state of mind for Navy personnel and families to be and stay prepared for any potential hazard throughout the year - something leadership takes very seriously."

Ready Navy is a proactive Navy-wide emergency preparedness, public awareness program. It is designed for the Navy community, to increase the ability of every person and family on or near Navy installations to meet today's

challenges head on and plan and prepare for all types of hazards, ranging from hurricanes and earthquakes to terrorist attacks. By exploring the links on the Ready Navy site, you will: * Be informed of potential hazards and what to do before, during, and after an emergency, * Understand the steps to make an emergency plan that includes what to do, where to go, and what to take with you, * Learn to build a kit to support basic needs for a minimum of three days, and * Access tools and resources to help you and your family prepare for emergency situations that could arise at any time with no warning.

Navy Personnel and families are strongly encouraged to strengthen emergency planning at home, as well as at work, by reading and following the tips and information found at www.Ready.

Navy.mil.

For more information on how to prepare for any disaster, visit http://www.ready.navy.mil. Ready Navy is a CNIC-sponsored emergency preparedness program.

Navy Installations Command is comprised of approximately 53,000 military and civilian personnel worldwide responsible for the operations,

maintenance and quality of life programs to sustain the Navy's fleet, enable the fighter, and support the family.

For more news from Commander, Navy Installations Command, visit www.navy. mil/local/cni/.

THE SIGNATURE

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SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

Direct Line

Capt. Brent Trickel, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer This coming Monday marks the anniversary of the tragic events that happened on September 11, 2001 in Washington D.C., New York City, and Shanksville, PA. I am sure most of you can remember exactly where you were as the events unfolded on that day. I was assigned to the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center in Fallon, NV and on 9/11 I had flown to Japan to provide training to the E-2C Hawkeye aircrew stationed at Naval Air Facility Atsugi. I had just checked into the Navy Gateway Inn and Suites and turned on the TV to see that an airplane had flown into the World Trade Center. I was stunned and perplexed and called my friend in the room next door. As we were talking on the phone we saw the second plane fly into the other World Trade Center tower on live TV and quickly realized that the United States was under attack. Nearly 3,000 innocent people were killed that day by the terrorist hijackers.

These events unfolded many years ago but we must never forget the sacrifices made by the civilians, military, firefighters, police officers, and oth-

ers. Even to this day Naval Air Station Sigonella is at the front lines supporting the fight against those that wish harm to the United States and our allies.

Another item I want to talk about is the importance of making sure paperwork, to include your NAVPERS 1070/62 Dependency Application/ Record of Emergency Data (otherwise known as your “Page 2”) and Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) is up to date. I will highlight a couple of tragedies that show how critical it is to make sure these documents are accurate and that you have discussed your SGLI coverage with your dependent(s).

After the 9/11 tragedy at the Pentagon it was discovered that some of the servicemenbers who were killed had not updated their Page 2 with current information. This means that in some instances, instead of the SGLI money going to their current spouse/dependents it instead was given to ex-spouses, parents, siblings, etc. It is extremely important that you immediately update your Page 2 if there is any change

in your family situation (marriage, divorce, new kids, etc.) so that they can receive the proper benefits should something happen to you. It also contains important information such as who to notify in case of emergency and who should be paid if you are in a missing or captured status.

I also highly recommend that you discuss your SGLI coverage with your spouse/ dependents (coverage can be in any increment of $10,000 with a maximum coverage of $400,000). In September, 2013 there was a mishap with a Navy MH60S aircraft where the two pilots were tragically killed. One of the pilots had elected to decline all SGLI coverage which was his right. Per MILPERSMAN 1741-020 the Navy was required to inform the spouse that her husband had rejected coverage (the Navy is required to notify the spouse if the servicemember elects anything but the maximum $400,000). Unfortunately, the Navy did not follow

through with the required notification and the spouse didn’t realize they had zero SGLI coverage until after the mishap.

Please remember the lives lost on 9/11 and continue to support those that sacrifice for our country – servicemembers, civilians, family members, etc. Learn from these tragedies to make sure paperwork is squared away and your family is properly taken care of should something happen to you.

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 Bravo Zulu for NEX Staff:

I would like to give a big thank you to John Sisson and all the NEX employees. The new furniture area was a great development. I stopped a couple of the associates requesting assistance with a furniture item, including John, and they helped without hesitation. I apologized again for interrupting them while they were working other tasks but appreciate the fact that the employees took time to assist me with my questions. They also went above and beyond by telling me about the upcoming promotions and savings. It is the little things that have big effects on everyone's quality of life. John has gone out of his way to assist me with other matters also. I cannot say enough good things about the NEX and what they are doing. I also appreciate the efforts the Commissary and base leadership have taken to further improve everyone's quality of life here.

Sincerely, Shawn Reandeau

Response:

Mr. Reandeau, Thank You for taking the time to comment on the Navy Exchange Main

Store. I have passed along your kind words to the staff and thanked them for their efforts. We always appreciate both positive comments as well as comments regarding areas of opportunity for our organization. Once again thank you for your comment and Your Service.

Comment regarding Fleet and Family Support Center Customer Service:

The courtesy and customer service at the Fleet and Family Service Center has been awful to say the least. The receptionist either did not forward messages, or the counselors have not been returning messages and the attitude of the woman whom I spoke with today was absolutely off-putting and she probably shouldn't be working in an establishment where people are seeking guidance for help. Not only did she not provide her name, she didn't bother to ask for mine and seemed to rush me off the phone. She did not ask for a call back number or offer an apology when I explained my spouse and I have been waiting for a callback since July 17 and it is now 31July at 1500. She told me to email the counse-

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THE SIGNATURE

SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Name: Engineering Aide 2nd Class Peter Mazzarella Department: Public Works Hometown: Warwick, Rhode Island Every water, electric, gas, and communication line on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella is marked on a living document, similar to Google Maps. Engineering Aide 2nd Class Peter Mazzarella is one of the three Sailors in charge of keeping the software system up-to-date.

“Our job is a lot different here than in a battalion, we’re more behind the scenes doing background work,” said Mazzarella. “We joke around saying we’re glorified librarians because we’re behind the scenes with all the documents making sure everything is where it needs to be.”

Additionally, Mazzarella took on the responsibilities as the Public Affairs Officer for his platoon, Mail Petty Officer, and Assistant Career Counselor, taking up what little free time he has at work.

"ICE" continued from Page 2 lor myself after I kept asking how to make an appointment.

There seems to be a huge lack of consideration or concern, and these are the people who we are expected to reach out to for help with depression, suicide, domestic violence etc. acting like they can't be bothered and this is why military members shy away from getting the help they need.

Response:

We sincerely regret this experience and take your comment very seriously. We have thoroughly discussed your concerns in our last staff meeting to develop a plan of action as a team. To ensure appointments are made in a timely manner, we have generated an appointment tracker that will require time sensitive responses. This database will be reviewed by management on a consistent basis to ensure follow up calls remain a priority. In response to your negative customer service experience, we will be focusing on current customer service protocols and adjusting them as necessary. In addition, we will be conducting a series of customer service refresher trainings for the entire team.

Please accept our sincerest apology. We are here to serve the community to the best of our ability and appreciate your feedback. If you have any further issues or questions that you would like addressed please don’t hesitate to contact Regina Fivella, the Fleet and Family Support Center Director, at 314-624-4291 or by email at regina.fivella@eu.navy.mil.

Outside of work, Mazzarella enjoys volunteering for various organizations, working with the local Italian Boy Scouts to redo the dry wall and paint on their building, participating in a memorial motorcycle ride out in town, and also numerous small events in Sigonella with the USO. “I enjoy doing something for the community,” said Mazzarella. “I do it to help out, get out of the house and not be a homebody. It’s also quite rewarding.”

When not at work or volunteering, Mazzarella likes to ride his motorcycle, woodwork, and most of all jump into the hockey rink with his friends. Just recently he went to Germany and participated in an armed forces hockey tournament, with every U.S. military branch along with other countries’ military teams participating.

“I took leave and spent a lot of money for my equipment to get there on the airplane but it was well worth it,” said Mazzarella. “It was nice meeting the different people. There were people from England, Germany, some people from the States, and a bunch of other countries as well.”

Mazzarella’s favorite part about living in Sicily is the ability to travel and interact with the locals.

“My great grandfather and his brother left their village about 45 minutes north of Naples to come to America,” said Mazzarella. “ I took a trip up there and just having the ability to see where my family came from is nice.”

Comment regarding Bravo Zulu for Child Development Staff Member:

I want to take a moment to recognize an amazing CDC staff member, Ms. Allie. She has taken care of both my boys over the last year and a half and I could not have asked for a more caring and supportive person. We had never left our children with anyone but family and from the moment we enrolled with the CDC Ms. Allie made us feel like family. In the beginning with crying kids that don't want you to leave to in just a few days our kids did not want to go home, we knew they were in great hands. There is not enough words to describe the gratitude we have for her but I wanted leadership to know what an impact she has made in not only my family but every family that she come in contact with.

Sincerely, Jerrica Livengood

Response:

Ms. Livengood, Thank you for taking the time to acknowledge Ms. Allie. It is always great to hear about the positive experiences from our families. The Child Development Center is very fortunate to have warm and caring caregivers who are truly passionate about providing high quality child care for all of the families in Sigonella. Nothing is more important than having the assurance that your children are safe and well cared for when you are not with them. Ms. Allie has worked for Sigonella CYP for over two years and has supported all of the child and youth programs with professionalism and

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Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief Acting CMC ATCS Bill Rhodes EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 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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THE SIGNATURE

Marines and Sailors help restore 2,400 year-old castle

SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

"ICE" continued from Page 3 a positive attitude. We will miss her as well and join you in thanking her for everything that she has done to support the families in Sigonella. Should you have any other questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Hardy, the Child and Youth Program Director at 624-3736 or by email Jennifer.hardy@eu.navy.mil

Comment regarding Subway conditions on NAS 2:

I am a new civilian at Sigonella. My first visit to Subway aboard NAS 2 was unpleasant. The restroom did not have paper towels or hand soap. If this is the employee restroom, this poses a health risk to customers if employees can't adequately sanitize hands after using the restroom. There were minimal vegetable options available and the toasting machine didn't properly work because my toasted sandwich with bacon and cheese was cold nor was the bread toasted.

The Staff was friendly and courteous.

Sincerely: Rick Rohr

Response:

Story by Lance Cpl. Patrick Osino U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Europe and Africa

Marines and Sailors with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa logistics combat element worked hand-in-hand with Syracuse residents to restore the Eurialo Castle here on Aug 3, 2017.

Built in 401 BC, the Eurialo Castle is a significant building in the history of the Greek military, designed to help defend the city from enemy attacks. However, a once magnificent and complex structure is now a ruin overrun by weeds and grass.

Armed with weed-whackers and rakes, Marines and Sailors partnered with the Syracuse community to restore this ancient piece of history and prevent further damage from wild fires, which are rampant on Sicily especially during hot summer months.

Mr. Rohr, Thank you for your comment. The restroom in question does not belong to the Subway or NEX. However, it is serviced by the BOS janitorial contract. They have been informed regarding the condition of the facilities and will ensure that they are properly serviced in the future. Please be advised that Subway employees are required to wash and dry their hands prior to performing any work for the public. Subway does have its own sink and soap for employee use. In regards to the minimal vegetable options, this issue has been rectified after addressing supply concerns.

The toaster is fully functioning now. Again, thank you for your concern. If ever in the future you have a concern with any of the NEX operations, please feel free to contact the NEX General Manager directly at 624-4379 or at john.sisson@nexweb.org.

“Today, what we are doing is very important because this is one of the most important archeological sites in Sicily,” said Valentino Deieso, the president of the associazione nazionale carabinieri.

“Unfortunately because of lack of funds the site’s restoration depends on volunteers.”

The Marines and Sailors had an opportunity to tour the site and visit its museum. They learned the history of the site, including that it was designed by Greek scientist and mathematician, Archimedes.

“This is the project that has been conducted for a couple of years by the Marines and the local archeology agency,” said Dr. Maria Musumeci, head archeologist-in-charge of the site. “It’s also a great way to share the artistic history of the area with the Marines and Sailors.”

The voluntary clean-up event left a positive impression with the local residents who were eager to participate and look forward to working with the Marines and Sailors in future community projects.

“This is very positive,” said Deieso. “I enjoy partnering with the Marines because being president of the organization has given me the opportunity to work with the Marines and enjoy their enthusiasm and willingness in volunteering to restore the site.”

SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

THE SIGNATURE

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Conserve Water to Help the Environment, Prevent Water Restrictions

By Antonino Piluso, NAS Sigonella Energy Manager

During the summer months, the Italian news often reports severe water shortages throughout the country. As a result of these shortages, citizens of Rome are at risk to have water rationing implemented, and all water fountains in the Vatican have been shut off. Sicily is also a region at risk of having water restrictions implemented.

This dramatic situation is mainly caused by the recent high temperatures in Italy and the lack of rainfall. This forces Italian farmers to use much more water than usual to water their crops. However there is also another important reason why this is happening. The current Italian water distribution systems waste about 39% of the water. This is why there is an ongoing construction project to replace most of the existing water lines at NAS 1 and NAS 2. When this extensive job is complete, it will save millions of gallons of potable water every year.

This is a good opportunity and an excellent time to remind the NAS Sigonella community of the importance and benefits of water conservation.

Each year during the months of June through September our water resources are stretched to our maximum capability.

Sigonella receives water from 5 wells that are operated by the Utility and Energy Management Branch of the Public Works Department. Each of our wells draws water from a common aquifer utilized by local farmers for their summer irrigation needs. During the

peak summer season, the water levels in the aquifers drop which reduces well production. Each summer we reach maximum water production and on occasion the base is at risk to impose water restrictions.

As I usually challenge you folks, what can we do to help? Below are 10 simple tips that we all can apply to reduce the usage of water.

Please contact the Public Works Department to report any water leaks at 624-6013.

If you would like any further information regarding energy conservation and how you can help, don’t hesitate to contact Installation Energy Manager Antonio Piluso at Antonino.piluso.it@eu.navy.mil

NAS Sigonella’s CERT Team Helps Prepare the Community for Emergencies From the Emergency Management Department

Community Emergency Response Team or CERT promotes emergency preparedness within the community. It is a program that trains volunteers on basic disaster response skills which may affect our local area. The CERT program offers response classes in disaster subjects. Volunteers can learn fundamental disaster skills in subjects such as fire safety, light search and team organization, and disaster medical operations. CERT trains the local members to prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters. Although our professional rescuers will respond during times of emergencies, an area wide disaster may overtax their capability and CERT members will be able to assist the community.

The idea of CERT was designed and put in to effect by Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1985. The Whitter Narrows earthquake in 1987 presented an area wide threat

of major disaster in California. This confirmed the need for training highly motivated civilians to meet the need of community responder to assist during a disaster. Local disasters could include floods, earthquakes and volcanic activity.

Here at NAS Sigonella, the Emergency Operation Center offers the basic CERT course to qualify volunteers to become CERT members. Emergency Management Officer Niki McBain highly encourages the members of the community to become CERT trained. In order to become a CERT member,

each volunteer must complete a FEMA IS-317 course online.

This course will introduce the member to CERT, including fire safety, hazardous material and terrorist incidents, disaster medical operations and search and rescue. However to become a CERT volunteer you must complete 20 hours of training offered by the Emergency Operation Center. For more information in regards to becoming a CERT member please contact NAS Sigonella Emergency Management office by dialing DSN 624-8283 or emailing Corbin.cooney@eu.navy.mil.

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SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

Researchers find 6,000-year-old Italian wine in Sicilian cave Story by The Local

Researchers have discovered traces of wine in Sicily dating back to the fourth millennia BC - meaning Italians have been making and drinking wine for much longer than previously thought.

A research team from the University of South Florida, supported by experts from University of Catania, Institute of Chemical Methodologies (CNR) and Superintendence of Agrigento, carried out tests on an ancient jar found in a cave in Sicily, and found it contained traces of 6,000-year-old wine, they recently announced.

The finding, published in Microchemical Journal, is “significant as it’s the earliest discovery of wine residue in the entire prehistory of the Italian peninsula”, the archaeologists said.

In other words, the discovery has popped the cork on everything that we know about the history of wine in Italy.

Previous recovery of seeds and samples had led to the belief that winemaking developed in Italy in the Middle Bronze Age, 1300-1100BC, or just over 3,000 years ago.

But the ancient copper container unearthed – nearly intact – in a cave on Monto Kronio, on Sicily’s southwest coast, opens 3,000 years of winemaking history on the peninsula that were previously unchartered.

It establishes a completely new, much older, timeline for the birth of wine in Italy, dating back way before ancient Greek or Roman Bacchanals.

The large storage jar found near Agrigento contains tartaric acid and its sodium salt, “which occur naturally in grapes and in the winemaking process,” according to the experts.

The copper container is more than 6,000 years old, making it the oldest known Italian wine and one of the oldest pieces of evidence for winemaking in the world.

The oldest known winemaking activity in the world was confirmed in Armenia, according to National Geographic, and was also approximately 6,000 years old. Some experts however have argued that the first winemaking in the world dates as far back as the Neolithic Age up to 10,000 years ago.

Nevertheless, the wine traces discovered in Agrigento will help experts reconstruct how wine was produced and traded on the island 6,000 years ago.

“This newest research, led by the University of South Florida, provides a new perspective on the economy of that ancient society,” said the university.

The previous oldest Italian wine residue was found in a Nuragic winepress near the Sardinian capital Cagliari in the early 1990s, according to Business Insider Italia. It was 3,000 years old.

The researchers who discovered the container in Sicily were unable to establish whether the residue found was of red or white wine.

There is also no precedent to know what an auctioneer like Sotheby›s might charge for a 6,000-year-old jar of Sicilian Merlot, should one still exist.

Over 90,00 tainted eggs seized in Italy Story by ADN Kronos Italian police on Wednesday (August 23) said they seized 91,000 eggs contaminated with the insecticide Fipronil after tests were carried out on two poultry farms in the Lazio and Marche regions amid a widening scandal.

Police impounded six thousand eggs and 12,000 hens in the

"EGGS" continued on Page 14

Researchers from the USF, University of Catania, Institute of Chemical Methodologies (CNR) and Superintendence of Agrigento recently discovered traces of 6,000-year-old wine on a Copper Age pottery found in a cave site of Monte Kronio in Agrigento, Sicily. (Photo by Davide Tanasi)

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SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

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Navy's 2017 Stockdale Award Recipients Announced From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Navy announced the two 2017 Vice Admiral James Bond Stockdale Leadership Award recipients Thursday in NAVADMIN 215/17.

Cmdr. Brian M. Drechsler, former commanding officer of Sea, Air,

Land (SEAL) Team Five is the Pacific Fleet recipient and Cmdr. Eric M. Sager, former commanding officer of USS California (SSN 781) is the Fleet Forces recipient.

The two recipients were nominated by their peers, who were also eligible for the award, and chosen from among eight finalists to receive the award.

The Stockdale award was established in honor of Vice Adm. Stockdale whose distinguished naval career symbolized the highest standards of excellence in both personal conduct and leadership. It is presented annually to two commissioned officers on active duty in the grade of commander or below who are serving in command of a single ship, submarine, aviation squadron, Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) team, naval special warfare squadron, SEAL delivery vehicle team, special boat team, explosive ordnance disposal mobile unit, mobile diving and salvage unit, or Navy special clearance team and who serve as examples of excellence in leadership and conspicuous contribution to the improvement of leadership in the Navy.

Drechsler was nominated by the former commanding officer of Naval Special Warfare Group One, Cmdr.

Ryan P. Shann, who wrote the nomination was in recognition of "his high standards, strong example, selfless service and personal commitment to his command members and their families."

Four commanding officers nominated Sager for the award. In his nomination letter, Cmdr. Kenneth R. Franklin, commanding officer of USS Colorado (SSN 788), stated Sager "sets an impeccable example for his peers and subordinates that is a model for all Naval officers to follow."

Drechsler and Sager are scheduled to receive their awards from Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John Richardson at a ceremony later this fall.

Vice Adm. James Bond Stockdale, for whom the Stockdale Award is named, articulated five roles for a leader -- moralist, jurist, teacher, steward and philosopher.

A Naval Academy graduate and pilot, Stockdale ejected from his A-4E Skyhawk over North Vietnam in September 1965 and was held prisoner and frequently tortured until February 1973. He received the Medal of Honor in 1976 and served as president of the Naval War College from October 1977 until August 1979.

He died in 2005 and is buried at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. He is survived by his three sons and eight grandchildren.

USS Kearsarge to Hurricane Harvey: Don't mess with Texas!

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dana D. Legg USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) Public Affairs

ATLANTIC OCEAN (NNS) -- The amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) departed for the Gulf Coast region Aug. 31, in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's, and local and state authorities' efforts to provide humanitarian and disaster relief for the areas affected by Hurricane Harvey.

The ship and her crew were recently underway conducting shipboard drills, and returned to homeport of Naval Station Norfolk for 30 hours on Aug. 30, to take on supplies and embark various units, including Commander, Expeditionary Strike Group 2; Commander, Amphibious Squadron 6; the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit; Tactical Air Control Squadron 22; and Fleet Surgical Team 4. Ships transiting with Kearsarge to assist in disaster relief will be the dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), the fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Lenthall (T-AO

NORFOLK, Va. (Aug 31, 2017) The amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) departs Naval Station Norfolk to support Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. U.S. military assets are supporting FEMA as well as state and local authorities in rescue and relief efforts in wake of Hurricane Harvey. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Casey J. Hopkins/Released)

189), and the dry cargo ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE 12).

Kearsarge's unique capabilities make her a key player in humanitarian and disaster relief. While in the Gulf Coast area, Kearsarge will be ready to serve as the hub for air and amphibious landing operations that will bring supplies, food and personnel to shore.

"Besides delivering combat power from the sea, amphibious assault ships are ideally suited to deliver assistance and aid," said Kearsarge's commanding officer, Capt. David K. Guluzian. "We can transport

large amounts of manpower and supplies to areas in need using our small boats, landing craft, and helicopters. We also have a robust medical suite, including operating rooms, an intensive care unit, X-ray, blood bank, and even counseling services. If required, we could care for injured persons or evacuees on board the ship."

With the collaboration of all-hands, Kearsarge took on more than 200 pallets containing items

"USS Kearsarge " cont’d on Page 15

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A Tas

Copen

Story and photos by MC Before going to Copenhagen I thought of it as a city with a lot of bicycles and nice people. Never would I have expected the city I found it to be. From beautiful historic buildings unique to Denmark to reutilized warehouses and factories hosting delectable food and store varieties, Copenhagen has a lot to offer.

You can start the day with a coffee and pancake from one of the dozens of food stands sprinkled throughout the city, or have a more traditional sit-down breakfast at a café in the district of Vesterbro, more commonly referred to as the Meatpacking District, or Købyen.

Dating back to the 17th Century, the Meatpacking District originally served as a marketplace for cattle and meat, and more recently hosted giant warehouses originally meant for 1,600 cattle now hosts a cacophony of different stores. Restaurants that seat you

in renovated cattle stalls, moder and a booming nightlife all find Just a few blocks away from the or walking street. Spanning 1,11 pedestrian street in Europe. Hun ing from all of the high-end desig ist knick-knacks. At the end of t Hall building, which is known as A quick metro ride away can t es in Copenhagen, Paper Island Paper Island earned its name by manufacturing island. Now, inst paper, the warehouse is the cen from all corners of the world. D Korean street food neighbor Indi to fresh brewed coffee and panca own perfume, mixing in the air t none other.

It’s almost impossible to ord even more difficult to pick which ing the courage to commit to th ous tables to choose from right o the water with music playing in from the hundreds of people arou the tasty meal.

Right next door to the food w with new exhibits every few mo museum assists in the digestion cently consumed – a well-needed

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ste of

nhagen

C2 Christopher Gordon

rn art galleries, architecture firms, their home in the market. e Meatpacking District lays Strøget, 11 meters long makes it the longest ndreds of stores line the street rangigner clothes brands to cheap tourthe street is the Copenhagen City s the center of Copenhagen. take you to one of the coolest placd. Like the Meatpacking District, y historically being a large papertead of holding countless reams of nter of a whirlwind of food stands Dozens of stands fill the open floor. ian curry, chorizo tacos sizzle next akes, every morsel exhuming their to form an orchestra of smells like

der from just one food stand, and h stands to choose from. After findhe food you want there are numeroutside the building. Overlooking n the background and the laughs und make it an ideal place to enjoy

warehouse is a modern art museum onths. Walking slowly through the n of the mountain of food just red break.

The last stop that is a must-do would be the long disorienting climb to the top of the Church of Our Savior. Seen from almost anywhere in the city, the tall spiral structure stands prominently in the skyline. For around $10 people can take the winding tight staircase up through the building to the outside of the steeple, where you can continue up the spiral staircase to the tip of the spire. From there the entire city is in view as far as the eye can see. The two bridges leading to Sweden trail off from both sides, the different districts blend seamlessly together, and the people, like ants, march hectically about the streets.

Whether it’s eating delicious food from small food vendors, taking in the numerous beautiful monuments and buildings, or just walking the streets and breathing in the city, Copenhagen is a great spot for a weekend getaway.

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SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:

9/11 REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY

Command, Department or Organization: FY18 CPO Selectees Date of Event: 11SEP17 Time of Event: 1000-1100 Location of Event: NAS 2 in front of BLDG 618 (ADMIN) Point of Contact Name: RPC(Sel) DeMario Davis Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-3975 Point of Contact Email Address: Demario.davis@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: NAS Sigonella will be hosting a remembrance ceremony for the dedicated first responders of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. As part of the event we would like to read names of the fallen or affected. If you have names that you would like read, please forward them to the above POC. Thank you!

NAVY BIRTHDAY BALL TICKETS ON SALE Command, Department or Organization: Navy Birthday Ball Committee Date of Event: Friday, 13 October Location of Event: Four Points

by Sheraton Catania Hotel & Conference Center Point of Contact Email Address: navyballsigonella@gmail.com Additional Information: IT'S TIME TO CELEBRATE THE NAVY'S BIRTHDAY! 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 Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200

Get details and purchase tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com and search for "Navy Ball Sigonella" All tickets to this year's ball will be sold online, first come first served, so get them early!

Prices: E1-E4: €45; E5-E6: €50; E7, O1-O3: €55; Civilian: €55; E8-E9, O4-O6: €65 *Ranks and tickets will be matched at the door, so make sure you make the right selection when you order.* The event will be held at the beautiful Four Points by Sheraton Catania on the beaches of Aci Castello.

Navy Ball attendees can book a room for: €85/night (single); €100/night (double) There are only so many rooms reserved, so be sure to book your room early by calling +39-095-711-4111 and mention you're with the Navy Ball.

For more detailed information, visit our website at: https://www.eventbrite.com and search for "Navy Ball Sigonella"

Weekly Traffic Report: Aug. 28 - Sept. 4, 2017

Liturgical Protestant Service - NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800 Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): . . . . . . . . . . . . 1045-1200 Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600

NAS 2

Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2100 Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900 Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2000 Roman Catholic Mass - NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon) . . . . . . . . . . . . .NAS I Chapel - 1300 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS II Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800

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.

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Protect Yourself From Becoming a Victim of Theft

By YN2 Gabrielle Milly

Theft happens and is not uncommon in the Unaccompanied Housing Barracks. Residents have been the victim of theft for not practicing good habits when it comes to their belongings. By using good judgement and following some of these tips for prevention, you can avoid the stress and inconvenience of becoming a victim of theft.

According to Mr. Ralph Jackson, Unaccompanied Housing Director, “Crime is not unknown in Unaccompanied Housing (UH) and unfortunately it happens all too often.” He said, “The most effective method in reducing crime in UH is to ensure resident safety for both staff and residents.”

Jackson recommends UH residents and employees maintain strict vigilance and promote an inquisitive attitude because “it is up to all of us to be aware of the comings-and-goings of everyone.”

It is everyone’s responsibility to be accountable for themselves but to also be mindful of everyone else. “One of the duties of every member of the UH Team is to control access to all UH spaces by ensuring that the only people to have access, are those who are supposed to”, said Jackson By controlling/restricting access, ensuring all areas are well-lighted (reducing the desire for criminals to operate), installing/maintaining doors and anti-theft hardware in all facilities, and keeping an effective key control program will greatly reduce UH theft.

Valuable items such as: cash, debit/credit cards, passports, electronics (cameras, phones, mp3 players, computers, laptops, tablets) jewelry, expensive clothing or shoes, bicycles and cars, should be safeguarded at all times to avoid theft. Jackson said, “Above all, practice common sense to avoid becoming a statistic.”

Below are some good tips to help keep you from becoming a victim:

10 – Ways to prevent theft 1. Don’t leave valuable items out. Few people decide to intentionally rob your room; most theft happens as a product of opportunity.

If you leave belongings out in plain sight, it makes it easier to grab-and-run. When your roommate has friends over you don’t know, you have a party, or leave your door open, do not leave valuable items in plain view where everyone can see them.

2. Lock up your barracks room. Lock the door whenever you and your roommate are not there. Make sure you have your key when you leave.

3. Don’t leave items unattended. When you are in the library, gym, galley, laundry room, or any other place in public, keep an eye on your belongings. Do not leave them unattended. Keep them zipped up in a backpack or on your person.

4. Get a footlocker or safe. If you have valuables you feel need to be locked up, get a footlocker or safe with a combination lock. Store it in a hidden place, such as under your bed or in the bottom of your closet. Do not let it be seen and do not tell people you have it—it will only attract attention to it and people will think you have something worth stealing.

5. Get insurance for your belongings. Consider having them insured against theft or damage as soon as you receive a room assignment.

6. Identify valuables for insurance claims.

Take pictures of your valuables (and their serial numbers) so they can be identified later.

Consider engraving identifying information on expensive items, such as your computer or marking items with a permanent marker.

Keep a record of the serial numbers in a safe place; this way, if anything is stolen, it can be identified at pawn shops or other establishments where the items may be fenced.

"Protect" continued on Page 15

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SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

GAMEZONE Hawaii

SAND SCUBA DIVING SNORKELING STATE SUGARCANE SURFING TOURISTS TROPICAL UKELELE VACATION VOLCANOES WAIKIKI WAIMEA BAY WARM WHALE WATCHING

MEDIUM

LANA'I LUAU MACADAMIA NUTS MANTA RAYS MAUI MOLOKA'I NAPALI COAST NI'IHAU NORTH SHORE O'AHU PACIFIC OCEAN PEARL HARBOR PINEAPPLES RESORTS

EASY

ALOHA ARCHIPELAGO BEACHES CANOEING COFFEE GRASS SKIRT HAWAIIAN HONOLULU HULA HUMPBACK WHALES ISLANDS KAHO'OLAWE KAUA'I KAYAKING KONA COAST

DIFFICULT

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

The remaining 48 letters spell a secret message.

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"EGGS" continued from Page 6 city of Ancona in Marche and a total of 85,000 eggs in the Lazio city of Viterbo.

Of the eggs seized in Viterbo, 53,000 were destined for human and 32,000 for animal consumption, police said.

“It’s possible that the contamination was accidental,” said Adelmo Lusi, head of the anti-adulteration unit of Italy’s Carabinieri police (Nas).

So far there have been seven cases of Fipronil contamination in Italy, Lusi said Fipronil is used to treat animals for parasites such as lice, fleas and ticks and investigators are probing whether the contamination occurred during disinfestations of the areas where poultry are kept, Lusi said.

“An extremely low percentage” of samples of eggs and egg products had tested positive for Fipronil until now, he underlined.

“Rigorous testing carried out by producers and distributors means Italian eggs are safe - we can trust them,” Lusi stated.

Nas have inspected 253 poultry farms, points of sale and factories where eggs are processed and egg products are made and awaiting the results of tests on 107 samples.

On Tuesday two batches of Fipronil-tainted eggs were found in Campania and in some frozen omelets in Lombardy, after the Italian health ministry said on Monday that two out of 114 samples of eggs and egg products had tested positive for Fipronil.

The tainted samples were from a fresh egg pasta from a shop in the province of Rome and from a poultry farm in the province of Ancona, a senior Italian health official told Adnkronos on Monday.

Consumer groups have called on the Italian government to reveal the companies and food chain that produced the Fipronil tainted products, as well as their final destinations and to carry out nationwide testing.

Poultry farms in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and France have been shut down due to Fipronil use, while the UK, Sweden, Austria, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Denmark, Switzerland and Hong Kong have received contaminated eggs.

Fipronil can damage people’s kidneys, liver and thyroid glands if eaten in large quantities and is banned for use on animals destined for the food industry.

Millions of eggs and items containing eggs have been withdrawn from sale in several EU countries.

However, food standards agencies are playing down the risks for anyone who has already eaten the tainted eggs or egg products.

The European Commission - the EU executive - will on 26 September hold a meeting with ministers and regulators over the Fipronil scandal.

Samples from a fresh egg pasta shop in eastern Italy tested positive for the pesticide Fipronil, the Veterinary

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Epidemiology Centre for the Marche and Umbria regions said on Friday, August 25.

The tainted samples came from a fresh pasta shop in Civitanova Marche in Marche’s province of Macerata but contamination levels (0.033 mg/kg) was well below that considered acutely toxic (0.72/mg), the Marche region said in a statement.

The Fipronil tainted eggs came from a packaging center attached to a poultry farm in Castelfidardo in the province of Ancona, where the first contaminated samples were reported earlier this week, the region said.

The Castefidardo packaging center has already stopped selling its eggs and has withdrawn all batches from sale, according to the Marche region.

“A local ordinance has banned the sale of the eggs,” the region stated.

“Checks are ongoing to trace and test products that could have been contaminated by Fipronil.”

Millions of eggs and items containing eggs have been withdrawn from sale in several European Union countries and poultry farms in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and France have been shut down due to Fipronil use.

The UK, Sweden, Austria, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Denmark, Switzerland and Hong Kong are known to have received contaminated eggs.

Fipronil can damage people’s kidneys, liver and thyroid glands if eaten in large quantities and is banned for use on animals destined for the food industry.

However, food standards agencies are playing down the risks for anyone who has already eaten the tainted eggs or egg products.

The European Commission - the EU executive - is due to hold a meeting with ministers and regulators over the Fipronil scandal on 26 September.

The insecticide is a common ingredient in veterinary products for getting rid of fleas, lice and ticks and is banned for use on animals destined for food.

'Cocaine king of Milan' arrested in Uruguay after 23 years on the run Story by The Guardian After 23 years on the run, one of Italy’s most wanted mobsters – the so-called “cocaine king of Milan” – has been arrested at a hotel in Uruguay.

Uruguayan and Italian authorities said Rocco Morabito, 50, a fugitive boss of Italy’s most powerful organised crime group, the Calabrian ‘Ndrangheta, had been living with false papers in the southern coastal resort of Punta del Esta for more than a decade.

Uruguayan police said Morabito, the target of an international arrest warrant since 1995, was detained after a six-month investigation that was triggered after he enrolled his daughter at a local school under his own name.

Morabito, who obtained Uruguayan papers after

SEPTEMBER 8, 2017 presenting a false Brazilian passport in the name of Francisco Capeletto, was arrested on Monday at a luxury hotel in Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, along with his wife, reportedly an Angolan national.

A search of his properties uncovered 13 mobile phones, 12 bank cards, two cars, 150 passport-sized photos of him in various guises plus a Portuguese passport, a quantity of jewels, about $50,000 (£38,500) in cash and a 9mm pistol, the Uruguayan interior ministry said.

In a statement, Marco Minniti, Italy’s interior minister, congratulated Italian and Uruguayan police for a joint operation that resulted in the apprehension of “the No 1 fugitive” from the ‘Ndrangheta.

Sentenced to 30 years in prison in Italy, Morabito had been sought by police since 1994 after attempting to import almost a ton of cocaine, worth 13bn lire (£6m), into Italy from Brazil, according to the Corriere della Sera newspaper.

Also suspected of transporting the drug to Milan from elsewhere in the country, he was wanted on charges of belonging to a criminal organization devoted to international drug trafficking, the Italian interior ministry said.

Thought to have arrived in Uruguay in 2002, Morabito has has been leading “a normal life” since 1994 and has not engaged in any criminal activities since, his lawyer told Italian media.

Pending a formal Italian extradition request, he will be held in Uruguay for at least the next three months for false papers and identity theft, the Uruguayan interior ministry said.

Federico Cafiero de Raho, chief prosecutor for the Calabria region, said Morabito had played “a major role” in cocaine trafficking between South America and Milan, a distribution point for the drug to be sold elsewhere.

He described Morabito as “a key figure” in the ‘Ndrangheta mob, which controls a large part of the world’s cocaine trade.

Italian prosecutors have suggested the organisation tries to ensure the size and quality of its cocaine deals live up to dealer expectations by placing top gang bosses in Latin American so they can be closer to the drug’s producers.

The arrest ticks off one of the Italian interior ministry’s top five list of most wanted organized crime bosses, which also includes the Sicilian mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro.

Last year Italian anti-mafia police caught two other fugitives ’Ndrangheta bossesafter discovering them “living like animals” in a mountain hideout stocked with an arsenal of weapons.

Giuseppe Ferraro, 47, and Giuseppe Crea, 37, both high-ranking members of the organization, had been on Italy’s list of most dangerous fugitives. Ferraro, convicted of a string of brutal murders, had been on the run for 18 years. Crea, wanted for mafia association and extortion, disappeared 10 years ago.

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"USS Kearsarge" cont’ from Page 7 of relief efforts in New Orleans and Haiti, has such as baby food and formula, diapers, bedding, water bottles, coolers, batteries, towels, canned and dry food items and food service supplies.

"Our hearts are heavy, but we are eager to serve our countrymen and the people of the great state of Texas in their time of need," said Command Master Chief Jason Knupp. "Kearsarge and her Sailors are energized and ready to focus their hard work toward loading the ship, putting to sea, and supporting the nation-wide relief effort."

To some Sailors aboard Kearsarge, the mission hits close to home.

"It kind of changes things when this stuff happens so close to home," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Chelsea Hamann, from Houston, Texas. "Knowing that my family and friends are there, and that they might need my help, makes me even more motivated to head out there and do what we're trained to do."

Chief Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) Jerome Fuda, also a native Texan, and veteran

"Protect" continued from Page 12 7. Lock up your car. If you have a car, do not leave valuables out in the open or on the seat; put them in the trunk or glove box.

Always lock your car.

8. Do not loan your keys. Security is as tight as you make it. Do not loan your room or car keys to other barracks residents (they could make copies).

9. Do not ignore strangers. First, do not prop open security doors to rooms that are supposed to be locked and accessible only to residents with keys. Also: “Depending on the size or layout of your barracks, you might get to know the residents and regular visitors. If

mixed emotions about returning to his home state under such circumstances.

"Proud, scared and emotional. Proud because I am a Texan and all Texans are proud.

Proud because this is what we do in the Navy.

Just showing up off the coast will give the folks of Texas some relief and reassurance that everything will be alright. But I am scared and emotional because I am dreading seeing firsthand the devastation. I know families that have lost everything, and towns that I used to visit as a kid are gone," said Fuda.

Despite his trepidation, Fuda is ready for action.

"Protecting our country doesn't always have to be from an enemy," Fuda said. "Right now the freedom of millions has been taken away by a storm. I hope I get the opportunity to represent Kearsarge ashore and help in any way I can. Don't mess with Texas!"

The Navy's involvement in the humanitarian assistance operations is led by FEMA in conjunction with the Department of Defense.

For more news from USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), visit http://www.navy.mil/local/lhd3/. there is someone in the barracks you do not recognize, draw attention to them somehow by alerting the Resident Advisor, or asking the person if they need assistance. Safety is first, do not approach strangers if you are not comfortable doing so. Call base security, Duty Resident Advisor or the Duty Complex Manager if you think someone is being suspicious.

10. Do not post on social media that you will be away. If you are going home, on leave, liberty, or leaving your room for any length of time, do not post your plans on social media sites. This alerts others that your room will be empty and unattended—a perfect opportunity to break into your room and rob you.

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