The Signature | December 7, 2018

Honoring President George H.W. Bush

Make Safe Driving Choices

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Sig's the Season!

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

PAGES 8-9

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Vol. 35 No. 46

American Red Cross Honors Sigonella Heroes Story by MCC Jessica Vargas NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

SIGONELLA, Sicily (Nov. 29, 2018) The Sigonella American Red Cross presented Brent Soper (left) with the Extraordinary Personal Action Award and Daryl Chandler with the Certificate of Merit, its highest award, during a ceremony Nov. 29, for their efforts in saving a choking victim’s life earlier this year. NAS Sigonella is an 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)

The Sigonella American Red Cross presented Daryl Chandler with its highest award, the Certificate of Merit, and Brent Soper with the Extraordinary Personal Action Award, during a ceremony Nov. 29, for their extraordinary efforts in saving a choking victim’s life.

The Certificate of Merit is awarded to individuals who save or sustain a life by using skills and knowledge learned in a Red Cross training services course. The certificate is signed by the President of the United States, who is the honorary chairman of the American Red Cross.

The Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action is a local award that is given to individuals who are not Red Cross trained but used lifesaving skills to help save someone’s life.

On May 27, 2018, Chandler and Soper were at dinner in Germany celebrating the Sigonella high school softball and baseball championship games with parents, school administrators, and Sigonella fans when suddenly they noticed a friend was in serious trouble.

“A piece of food lodged in my throat and I was unable to breathe. It only took a moment for me to realize the danger I was in and alert my Sigonella friends,” said the choking victim, who wishes to remain anonymous.

“He stood up, his face was bright red and he was wheezing, said Chandler. “I

observed that his airway was completely blocked at which time me and Mr. Soper quickly jumped up into action.”

Chandler and Soper, without hesitation, used their life saving training and worked together to perform the Heimlich Maneuver and administer back blows to dislodge the obstruction from the victim’s airway.

“After several seconds, which felt like an eternity, the obstruction was dislodged,” said Soper. “He was still not breathing correctly due to his airway being constricted from being in shock, but Mr. Chandler kept him calm and after a few minutes he began to breathe normally.”

“Thank you to these heroic men from our Sigonella Community who found themselves in an emergency and were prepared for the situation,” said the choking victim. “The American Red Cross lifesaving training is a must for everyone.”

Chandler, a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) employee, is trained in Adult and Pediatric First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and Automated External Defibrillator.

“I have been a Red Cross member and or instructor for the last 20 years,” said Chandler. “When I first started with MWR I was a lifeguard manager. I used to teach CPR and first aid to the professional rescuer, which is a level slightly above the standard CPR certification. This makes my third or fourth save in some form or

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NATO Forces Fuel Card to Replace Fuel Coupons From Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia Public Affairs

The NATO Forces Fuel Coupons will officially be replaced by new NATO Forces Fuel Cards –beginning Jan. 1, 2019. You will still use your current fuel coupons until the new fuel cards are activated on Jan. 1.

The new NATO Forces Fuel Cards will be more convenient for all DoD/NATO personnel in Italy and add an increased level of security that will help to eliminate fraud.

Locally, authorized personnel can sign up now for their new NATO Forces Fuel Card by contacting the Navy Exchange at DSN 624-4974 or 624-4891 to set up your appointment date and time. It is important that you make your appointment as early as possible to ensure that all authorized patrons are registered and receive their new fuel cards during the month of December.

It is important that you bring the following documents to your scheduled appointment. Please scan the QR or visit the website listed at the end of this article to access the required paperwork.

• A printed and completed copy of the attached NATO Forces Fuel Card Application Form • A printed and completed copy of the attached Credit Card Authorization Form • Your original Motor Vehicle Registration Form How does the NATO Forces Fuel Card work?

The NATO Forces Fuel Card is accepted as a payment method at ENI/AGIP stations. The card can be used directly at the fuel station by swiping or inserting the card in the point-of-sale (POS) terminal and entering your secure PIN code.

Your fuel transactions will be billed to the payment method provided during registration and you will receive a bi-weekly invoice and a monthly statement. Please note that the tax-free fuel price will only be charged to your biweekly invoice if you have purchased your assigned fuel type within the limits of your monthly ration. You must use the NATO Forces Fuel Card to receive tax-free fuel. You will not be refunded if a fuel trans¬action is paid for via another payment method.

How do I sign up to receive a NATO Forces Fuel Card?

Eligible personnel at each base will be able to make an appointment at your local NEX. Registration forms will be available online beforehand so that paperwork can be completed prior to your appointment.

How many fuel cards will my family receive?

Each sponsor will receive one fuel card. If you have multiple sponsors in your family, you will receive one card per sponsor.

How many liters of tax-free fuel can I purchase each month?

The ration amount and fuel type depend on the primary registered vehicle’s engine size, engine base horsepow¬er and fuel requirement. Your monthly taxfree fuel authorization ranges from 100 liters to 400 liters maximum for automobiles, while rations for motorcycles may not exceed 200 liters.

Am I required to purchase my entire ration of fuel?

Customers are not required to purchase the fuel ration allotment and will only be billed for liters purchased.

Am I able to roll over my unused liters to the next month?

Fuel rations will not be rolled over month-to-month.

Any unused liters in your ration will expire at the end of the month.

For more information regarding the NATO Forces Fuel Cards, including answers to more Frequently Asked Questions, scan the QR in this article or visit https://spark.adobe.com/page/3Fs3k5LnB7d5o/.

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DECEMBER 7, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

Direct Line

Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran, NAS Sigonella Executive Officer Buongiorno Sigonella, I would like to wish the men and women of Naval Air Station Sigonella a joyful holiday season. I am honored to serve alongside you here in beautiful Sicily and I am grateful for your steadfast service this past year.

The Sigonella community is gearing up to celebrate the holiday season by getting ready to travel out of the area or possibly host guests here in celebration of the holidays. While we may be distracted by planning trips, hosting guests, or simply spending time with loved ones, we shouldn’t allow ourselves to get complacent when it comes to Safety. Holidays are statistically high periods for accidents and injuries, and there is no more tragic loss than one that was preventable.

Tis the season to be careful! Over the holidays (and throughout the year), use common sense and simple risk management. Get enough rest, and give yourself adequate driving time if travelling. There are many wonderful places we can visit in Eu-

rope and being safe while you travel is imperative. Make sure that you practice good OPSEC—avoid wearing clothing that may paint you as a target while traveling, sign up for the U.S. Embassy’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for your destination, and avoid large crowds and gatherings. If you decide to visit friends or family locally while celebrating, be sure to use a designated driver. If you are driving, always buckle up and keep an eye out for hazardous weather that could cause treacherous road conditions. And please, put your cell phone down!

While the climate is relatively temperate here in southern Italy, the weather can be bitterly cold in other areas of Europe and the world. Ensure that you check the forecast for your travel destination and pack appropriately warm clothing and layers for you and your family members.

Many folks may be decorating their homes for the holiday season.

Please be sure that if you decide to

put up a Christmas tree, use a heavy base or stand so kids and pets can’t knock it over. Also be sure to place breakable ornaments up high on the tree out of their reach. Check your string lights for frayed wires or broken sockets to prevent overloading your electrical circuits or the risk of electric shock. And, be sure to check the voltage on decorations you plug in to ensure that they are compatible with the socket you are using. Don’t forget that some decorative plants (such as some poinsettias) can be poisonous to children and pets and should be kept out of their reach.

When you are preparing that holiday feast, make sure that you are doing so safely! Don’t leave food on the burners unattended and keep an eye on children when they’re in the kitchen to ensure that they don’t accidently reach up onto the counter and pull a hot pan down onto themselves.

Practice good food safety and be sure to promptly store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Alcohol is often a part of holiday festivities. With that, know your limits, and use good judgment when celebrating. Remember that the decisions you make affect more than just yourself, especially if you are out on the roads.

The upcoming holiday season provides a well-deserved opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments with those dearest to you. Know that your mission here in Sigonella is important and your service is certainly appreciated. Enjoy the holiday season, and be safe in all that you do!

Happy Holidays!

Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Sug-

gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks.

Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard

those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program!

There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu.

– or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".

Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding Check-Out Policy:

CMC, is there an existing NAS Sigonella or Navy policy regarding how far in advance one can begin their checkout? Because there is a Sailor in my department who got his PCS orders, and he does absolutely nothing all day. He is not leaving for another two months. Many times he is late for work or is UA for hours at a time, but my chain of command does not discipline him because he is difficult to deal with. I like to get a hard day’s work in, so seeing this Petty Officer just collect a paycheck while hanging out in his barracks room during working hours is completely unsatisfactory. Is there any guidance that governs this, because to me it is a waste of tax payer dollars especially when my LPO does nothing about it.

Response:

Thanks for asking about this, because it does seem like something is not right in the scenario you described. NAS Sigonella does have an instruction covering check in/out procedures. The guidelines listed for the check-out process include attending the Arrivederci class 4-6 months prior to expected departure (whether or not orders have been received), notifying housing when you expect to vacate your economy quarters at least two weeks ahead of time, and ensuring that you have a transfer evaluation five days before leaving the island. Under normal circumstances, an individual should obtain a command check out sheet approximately 10 working days before their expected departure date.

The behaviors that you describe do not pertain to properly checking out of the command and would more closely align with potential violations of the UCMJ. For example: Article 86-Absence without leave: Any member of the armed forces who, without authority: (1) fails to go to his appointed place of duty at the time prescribed; (2) goes from that place; or (3) absents himself or remains absent from his unit, organization, or place of duty at which he is required to be at the time prescribed; shall be punished as a court-martial may direct.

Article 92-Failure to obey order or regulation: Any person subject to this chapter who is derelict in the performance of his duties shall be punished as a court-martial may direct. A duty may be imposed by treaty, statute, regulation, lawful order, standard operating procedure, or custom of the service. A person is derelict in the performance of duties when that person willfully or negligently fails to perform their duties or when they perform them in a culpably inefficient manner.

In all actuality, it sounds like this Petty Officer you are referring to is potentially in violation of one or both of these articles, and their behavior needs to be addressed immediately. Everyone at NAS Sigonella has a role to play and a job to do, and we all need to continue to pull our weight until we leave or our mission cannot be accomplished. Please reach out to the CMC directly to seek her help addressing this since you did not indicate a department or work center in your original comment. CMC Nancy Estrada can be reached at 624-5246 or Nancy.

Estrada@eu.navy.mil. Thank you.

Comment Regarding Installation Training:

Training Department, could you please add an overview of some of the NAS Sigonella Instructions (NASSIGINST) to the General Military Training (GMT) schedule? I read them to stay current but it seems like others in my department are not doing the same. For example, my supervisor was on a temporary assigned duty when I routed a leave request, but my leading petty officer (LPO) would not even consider my leave until my supervisor returned. I remember reading in the Standard Organization and Regulations Manual (SORM)/Standard Organization and Regulations of the U.S. Navy (SORN) that requests should not be delayed. The NASSIGINST states that requests have to be reviewed within 48 hours. I am not a sea lawyer. I am just a Sailor who thinks her leadership should follow the regulations. It would put a smile on my face if there was a general overview of the command's policies at the next GMT. Thank you Sir!

Response:

Thank you for your comment about training topics at Sigonella. Unfortunately the Training Department’s mission is to focus on training mandated by the Navy such as GMTs, Full Speed Ahead, Command Indoctrination (INDOC), and Petty Officer INDOC. There are many NASSIGINSTs and it would require a lot of time to go over each of them. It appears that there is an issue with the lack of knowledge when it comes to local policies. Instead of holding base-wide training on the NASSIGINSTs, I would recommend looking on your command share drive, which houses all the local instructions, or the G2 Directives page (https://g2.cnic.navy.mil/Directives/default.aspx) to familiarize yourself with them and pass them along to your LPO if need be. This would make you more knowledgeable and in turn you can pass this information up and down the chain of command. If you have questions regarding local instructions in the future

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DECEMBER 7, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Name: Aviation Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Matthew Anthony Villanueva Department: VP-26 Maintenance Hometown: Orange County, Calif.

Having fully functional electrical systems is critical when operating a P-8A Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance aircraft (MPRA). Nearly every system on the plane—from the emergency lighting to the oven—requires some degree of electrical input to function properly.

Maintaining all of these different systems is no small task. Luckily, Aviation Electrician’s Mate (AE) 3rd Class Matthew Anthony Villanueva is on the job.

Patrol Squadron (VP) 26 is a Jacksonville, Fla.-based MPRA squadron that is currently deployed to Sigonella

in support of Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance operations in the U.S. 6th Fleet Area of Responsibility. The Trident aircrews are on call 24/7 and operate the P-8A in an ever changing, all weather tactical environment.

Villanueva is one of nine AEs assigned to the “Tridents” of VP-26’s Division 220, which is charged with maintaining the electrical systems on their P-8As. Needless to say, having all the planes in good working order is crucial. Division 220 plays a critical role in ensuring that the planes are ready to operate at a moment’s notice.

“As an AE, you need to know basically every system on the aircraft,” said Villanueva. “Our primary job as AEs is to read out wires. Anything a wire comes in contact with, we have to be familiar with.

We have to know everything from elec-

trical equipment, power generators, interior and exterior lighting, aircraft batteries, to even the compass system.”

Villanueva checked in to VP-26 in March of 2015 and was initially assigned to Division 310, the “Line Shack,” where he qualified as a plane captain. He has since gone on to work in Division 220 and earn his 310 and 220 Collateral Duty Inspector (CDI) qualifications.

“As a 220 and 310 CDI, my job is to inspect all work and comply with the required quality assurance inspections during all maintenance actions from start to finish,” said Villanueva. “After signing off a maintenance action as a CDI, you’re saying that the maintenance was done by the book and that the aircraft is good to go.”

Villanueva also serves as part of the squadron’s battery program. In this capacity, he helps to keep track of the squadron’s battery inventory and ensure that used batteries are disposed of safely and properly. He also assists in monitoring and inspecting the batteries onboard the squadron’s aircraft.

Villanueva is the oldest of three siblings. He is originally from Orange County, Calif., but lived in Saipan for roughly 12 years. He originally joined the Navy in September of 2014 so that he could finish his bachelor’s degree, but now he plans to make a career out of it.

“I love the Navy and I love what I do for the Navy,” said Villanueva. “My career so far has given me the opportunity to see tons of new places and have a lot of really unique experiences. As an AE, I get to tackle new and unique challenges every day. I’m always learning more about the plane and trouble shooting in general.

That aspect keeps me really engaged and interested in the work.”

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“RED CROSS” continued from Page 1

or if you are having trouble locating a certain instruction, contact your admin department for assistance. Lastly, I would recommend reaching out to your Chief, Division Officer, or Department Head if you are having issues with your LPO and do not feel that you are being fed the correct information. Give your leadership the chance to show you the instruction and clear up any confusion. I hope this resolves the issue or has opened up another avenue to research specific questions in the future.

another. However, I think this incident had the most potential to go wrong.”

Brent Soper, a Northrop Grumman Corporation contractor with the U. S. Air Force 7th Reconnaissance Squadron, is CPR certified through the American Heart Association and is trained in Self-Aid Buddy Care (SABC).

“I have 17 years of training and this is the first time I have been required to use it,” said Soper. “You never know when you will find yourself in an emergency situation like this. Training could mean the difference between life and death.”

“I am humbled to receive this award, but I don’t need any recognition for what I did,” said Soper. “I feel like it’s everyone's civic duty to do the right thing, wherever, whenever, and whatever that might be.”

The American Red Cross awards 100 Certificates of Merit annually across the United States.

"We are extremely proud to honor these Sigonella heroes," said Karen Jorgenson, regional program manager. "Their actions exemplify the Red Cross mission to help prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies."

“I am grateful and very humbled to receive this honor,” said Chandler. “I have always felt a strong compassion to serve and to help my fellow brothers and sisters. I truly believe that you do unto others as you would have done to you.”

Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@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 factor of 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 preceeding 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

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Local Volunteer Receives National Award for Service

By Virginia Imlah Director, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Sigonella

A Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Sigonella volunteer, Natalie Aglubat, was recently presented with the Presidential Certificate of Commendation for her outstanding volunteer service.

During her time in Sigonella, Natalie dedicated over 1,800 hours of service to the organization.

Her constant commitment and extraordinary efforts directly benefited the service members and families of NAS Sigonella. As a result, Natalie was selected to receive this prestigious award.

Natalie was looking for a way to get involved and help the local community when she began volunteering in July of 2016. She first began volunteering as a Client Services Assistant and was eager to learn about all of the programs and services that Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offers. After observing the casework process, Natalie decided to complete the necessary training to become a qualified caseworker. She selflessly served wherever help was needed and became an indispensable asset to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Sigonella office.

Natalie eventually took on an additional role as the Chair of Volunteers where she helped recruit and train new volunteers and ensured that the office was properly staffed to offer its programs and services to the local community. She also mentored and encouraged her fellow volunteers.

Natalie especially enjoyed planning recognition events for current volunteers, and she continually found ways to demonstrate appreciation to the many volunteers that serve at Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.

Natalie recently relocated to Bremerton, Washington. She plans to volunteer at the local NavyMarine Corps Relief Society office once she gets settled. Before moving, Natalie found comfort in knowing that she can continue to serve and find a familiar sense of community in her new location.

Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society has over 4,000 volunteers, and it cannot offer its programs and services without the help of volunteers such as Natalie. These volunteers donate their time and use their abilities to help Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society fulfill its mission of offering financial, educational, and other assistance to service members, eligible family members, and survivors when they are in need.

Virginia Imlah, Director of the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Sigonella, presents Natalie Aglubat with the Presidential Certificate of Commendation for her distinguished volunteer service. (Photo by Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society)

DECEMBER 7, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

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December is Impaired Driving Prevention Month From Navy & Marine Corps Public Health Center

Week 1 : Make Safe Driving Choices Make safe choices about drinking and driving during the holiday season to avoid negative outcomes. Holiday parties and family gatherings are events that many look forward to at the end of the year, but these environments may increase the risk for Sailors and Marines to engage in unhealthy alcohol behavior. You may think that having a few drinks to take the edge off isn’t enough to cause you to make bad decisions behind the wheel.

But it only takes one time to hurt yourself, others, or your career. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcoholimpaired drivers cause one death every 53 minutes. You

can be part of the solution.

• Make arrangements to have a non-drinking designated driver.

• Have a family member or friend pick you up.

• Call a taxi. Program the number into your phone so you have it readily available when needed.

• Plan to stay overnight.

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THE SIGNATURE

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Sigonella Hospital Delegation Attends Disability Awareness Event

By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

CATANIA, Sicily – On Nov. 30, a delegation of Sailors from U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella attended a panel organized by the Kiwanis Club “Catania Nord Ponte del Sapere” to promote awareness of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a classification of genetic neuromuscular disorders that affect the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles.

The panel focused on the implementation of an art contest that will educate Catania’s elementary and middle school students on the importance of inclusive education—allowing children with disabilities to participate alongside their peers in regular classrooms. Panelists stressed that it is important to guarantee that children with neuromuscular conditions are fully included at their schools to receive the best education and enable them to reach their full potential. The initiative, which was promoted by Giuseppe Conte, the president of the Kiwanis Club, will be led by Catania High School “Eredia Fermi.”

In attendance at the event were Catania Mayor Salvo Pogliese, City Council President Giuseppe Castiglione, Ms. Daniela Lauro, President of the National Association of Families Muscular Dystrophy Association, Professor Giuseppe Vita, the scientific director of the Messina NeMo Center for Neuromuscular Diseases, Maura Magni, the incoming president of the National Kiwanis Club, and other city executives and military authorities.

Saint Lucia Festival in Belpasso and Siracusa on December 13 Story by Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

"Sarausana è!"—translated as “She is definitely from Siracusa!”—is what devotees shout during the Santa Lucia Festival to show how proud they are of the fact that this popular saint is "one of them." This beloved patroness has been regarded as the savior of Siracusa ever since a terrible tsunami wave struck Messina following an earthquake on Dec. 28, 1908.

According to tradition, the deadly wave stopped just before the outskirts of Siracusa. Nowadays, there is still an "edicola votive” (a votive shrine) in Siracusa’s piazza delle Poste that memorializes the occasion of Santa Lucia’s miracle. Similarly, she is also invoked in Belpasso for protection against natural disasters caused by Mt. Etna. Belpasso's townspeople have been venerating Santa Lucia since 1636, when the Carmelite monks first organized a religious festival in her honor. On Dec. 13, the communities of these cities remember her through annual spectacular and heartfelt religious festivals.

Life of Saint Lucia Lucia, whose name means "light," was born in Siracusa to a rich and noble family in 283 AD and raised as a Christian. Although Lucia consecrated herself to Jesus, she was pressed by her mother Eutychia to marry a pagan nobleman. Since Eutychia had been suffering from chronic hemorrhage for several years, Lucia took her on a pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Agata in Catania, where she prayed for her healing.

While in Catania, Lucia saw a vision of St. Agata, who assured her that Eutychia was healed because of her strong faith. As a result of this miracle, Lucia convinced her mother to give all of their possessions to the poor and sick. But this radical decision angered the man to whom she was betrothed, who denounced her as a Christian.

Lucia was then brought before Paschasius, a pagan governor to whom she refused to give up her faith. The cruel governor then ordered her to be tortured. According to tradition, several miracles occurred during her torture. During one, soldiers tried to set her on fire but she did not burn.

Paschasius then planned to force her into prostitution, but when the guards tried to drag her away, they could not move her. Legend also has it that Lucia's eyes were plucked out during her torture, but that God miraculously restored her sight.

Because of this, she is often represented as a maiden with her eyes on a plate, a book, or a shell and also why she is invoked against blindness and eye diseases.

Saint Lucia is also considered a protector against fire and the patron saint of people suffering from infection, hemorrhage, and sore throat.

Ultimately, Lucia was beheaded on the 13th of December in the year 304 AD but her body remained in Siracusa for many years. In 1039, Byzantine general Maniace took her human remains to Constantinople (Istanbul). Several years later, Venetian crusaders took her relics to Venice where most are still preserved today inside a glass enclosed sarcophagus behind the altar within the SS. Geremia and Lucia Church. The rest of her relics are scattered in churches throughout Europe. Portions of her arms are located in the cathedral of Siracusa and in Belpasso's main church.

Saint Lucia is also celebrated on Dec. 13 in Sweden. Scandinavian Christians celebrate Luciadagen (Saint Lucia's Day),

On Nov. 30, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Sailors participated in a community relations event in Catania to promote awareness on the importance of including students with disabilities in regular classroom activities. (Photo by Catania Kiwanis Club Press Office)

a festival of light symbolizing the end of darkness.

According to tradition, on the morning of Dec. 13, the oldest daughter in each family wears a white robe and puts on a wreath of greens with lit candles on her head. She then awakens the other members of the family and serves coffee and goodies. During the festival, a contest to elect "Lucia Bride" is also held. The winner is not chosen as the most beautiful but as the one most committed to community service. "Lucia" leads a torchlight procession through farms, houses, and schools, singing the Lucia song.

She is followed by her "assistants" of young girls clad in white with glitter in their hair, boys wearing white shirts and hats decorated with stars, and other children dressed as trolls, demons, and old men. The Swedish “Lucia" is sometimes invited to Sicily to take part in the celebrations held in Siracusa.

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 15

DECEMBER 7, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

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America Bids Goodbye to President George H.W. Bush

By Jim Garamone Defense.gov

WASHINGTON -- Eulogies hailed former President George Herbert Walker Bush as both a great and a good man at a state funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral held Wednesday.

The nation’s 41st president died Nov. 30 at the age of 94. President Donald J. Trump and former presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter attended the service to pay respects to Bush and to offer condolences to his family and to Americans.

Bush’s son – former President George W. Bush – delivered a eulogy, along with historian Jon Meacham, former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and former U.S. Sen. Alan Simpson. More than 4,000 service members and Defense Department civilians participated in all of the events around the state funeral.

All spoke of Bush’s energy, compassion, humility and values. “His life code was: Tell the truth. Be strong. Do your best. Try hard. Forgive. Stay the course,” said Meacham, a Pulitzer Prize winner. “And that was, and is, the most American of creeds.”

All said that Bush’s Navy service during World War II affected him throughout his life.

During a bombing run on the Japanese-held island of Chichi Jima in 1944, Bush’s plane was hit. He completed the bombing run and turned to the sea. He called on his two crewmates to bail out and then hit the silk himself. He landed in the water and was later recovered by the submarine USS Finback.

His son said his father embraced life because he almost died twice: as a teenager with a staph infection and “a few years later, he was alone in the Pacific on a life raft, praying his rescuers would find him before the enemy did,” he said.

“God answered those prayers. It turned out he had other plans for George H.W. Bush.

“For Dad’s part, I think those brushes with death made him cherish the gift of life,” he continued. “And he vowed to live every day to the fullest.”

Bush came home from war and married his love, Barbara, and the young family moved to Texas, where the elder Bush entered the oil business.

Call to Public Service But the call to public service was strong, and he was elected to serve in the House of Representatives. He later served as the director of the CIA, led the U.S. liaison office in China before formal diplomatic relations were established, and served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. In 1981 he took office vice president of the United States. He was elected president

U.S. service members with the Ceremonial Honor Guard carry the casket of George H. W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States, at Andrews Air Base, Md., Dec. 03, 2018. Nearly 4,000 military and civilian personnel from across all branches of the U.S. armed forces, including reserve and National Guard components, provided ceremonial support during President George H.W. Bush's, the 41st President of the United States state funeral.

(DoD photo by U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Rashad Usry)

in 1988, succeeding President Ronald Reagan, the first vice president elected to succeed his president since Martin Van Buren succeeded Andrew Jackson in 1837.

All the eulogists spoke of Bush’s efforts in foreign policy. Operations Desert Storm and Just Cause, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the implosion of the Soviet Union were just a few of the momentous events during his presidential service. They also spoke of the American with Disabilities Act that he signed and his support for environmental laws and his courage to reach across the aisle to hammer down a bill that put the United States on a sound fiscal path, even though it cost him his second term.

“I believe it will be said that no occupant of the Oval Office was more courageous, more principled and more honorable that George Herbert Walker Bush,” Mulroney said.

The younger Bush said his father was a mentor to many –- including the man who defeated him in 1992, Bill Clinton.

“Of course, Dad taught me another special lesson: he showed me what it means to be a president who serves with integrity, leads with courage and acts with love in his heart for the citizens of our country,” Bush said.

An undated file photo of Navy pilot George H. W. Bush. (U.S. Navy photo courtesy of the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum/Released)

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By Janine Scianna NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Naval Air Station Sigonella commanding officer Capt. Brent Trickel selects children from the crowd to help him light the Midtown tree. (Photo by Janine Scianna)

DECEMBER 7, 2018

Deck th

With the vast majority of family and friends thousands of miles away, Sigonella citizens might naturally be more homesick during the holiday season than at other times of the year. But thanks to MWR, the USO, Sigonella Elementary School (and its PTA), the Junior National Honor Society, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS), and an army of volunteers and workers, everyone got treated to an entire weekend of holiday festivities to mimic the traditions of home.

On Friday, Nov. 30, crowds amassed to see the impressive Midtown Christmas tree lighting ceremony. What ended as a feast for the eyes began as a feast for the ears.

The five-piece U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band performed classic holiday songs to perfection, setting the bar for an impressively orchestrated event. They were followed by a 5th grade volunteer singing group known as “The Peeps” who were led by the talented and enthusiastic Martha Palm, Sigonella Elementary School’s music teacher.

Said Palm of the performance “This the 5th year I've been involved with MWR's Tree Lighting and singalong Fifth grade students perform at the annual tree lightin and this may be the best turnout yet!”

She went on to praise her singing troupe, who impressively sang “Auguri di Buon Natale” in the a capella style, making her extremely proud.

The event concluded with the base’s commanding officer Capt. Brent Trickel lighting the Christmas tree along with three children from the crowd, hand-selected by him. “Oohs” and “ahhs” from the crowd grew to cheers as everyone realized that “snow” was falling from the sky and that Santa and Mrs. Claus were waving from the Midtown balcony.

The U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band performs at the annual tree lighting ceremony. (Photo by Ivan Messina)

The crowd observes the lighting of the NAS I Midtown Christm

DECEMBER 7, 2018

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he Halls

But perhaps the most joyous part of the evening was the fellowship exhibited by the community at the end.

Friends and neighbors sipped hot chocolate together and kids played while devouring sugar cookies provided by the USO. Families posed for photos in front of the lit-up tree while the band gave an encore performance. It was a lovely reminder that a close-knit community like Sigonella can feel like home even if the real one is an ocean away.

USO Director Greg Winebrenner, whose organization passed out the treats, remarked “My favorite part was watching the children running around with smiling faces, enjoying the holidays and special time with their families.”

The festivities continued into the weekend, with MWR playing host to a Saturday, Dec. 1 “Breakfast with Santa” event. The NMCRS was also on hand sponsoring a children’s gift shopping event, where kids were guided by volunteers in shopping for reasonably-priced gifts for family members. Although the popularity of the event might have tested the patience of anxious children standing in line, it was hailed as a huge success.

Chris McKibbin, the School Liaison Officer and orng ceremony. (Photo by Janine Scianna) ganizer of the event, reported that 700 attended Friday’s tree lighting and 800 attended Saturday’s breakfast. He attributed the success of both events to the close collaboration of all the organizations who were involved.

Indeed, the scale and impact of the “Sig’s the Season” holiday celebration was a shining example of the feats that Sigonella’s support organizations can accomplish, especially when they work together.

“It is a great feeling when everything comes together and all you see is smiling faces and all you hear is laughter,” remarked McKibbin.

mas tree. (Photo by Ivan Messina)

The Midtown Christmas tree is lit at the annual tree lighting ceremony. (Photo by Janine Scianna)

Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to the crowd at the annual tree lighting ceremony. (Photo by Janine Scianna)

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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: DECEMBER HOURS - NAS II FLIGHT LINE FITNESS CENTER

BLENDED RETIREMENT SYSTEM CLASS

Command, Department or Organization: MWR FITNESS Date of Event: December 2018 Time of Event: 0500 - 2130 M-F Location of Event: NAS II Point of Contact Name: Elizabeth Leonard Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-0504 Point of Contact Email Address: Elizabeth.leonard@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: NAS II Flight Line Fitness Center is closing half an hour earlier Monday through Friday, for the month of December. Gym hours are 0500 to 2130 Monday through Friday and 0700 to 1900 Saturday/Sunday

Department, Organization: Fleet and Family Support Center Date of Event: 20 December Time of Event: 1000-1100 Point of Contact Name: Agata Carnazza Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4291 Additional Information: ***REMINDER*** 31 December 2018 is the cutoff date for opting in for BRS! This class educates service members on the HIGH -3 & BRS so they can make the best choice for themselves and their families.

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 Daily Mass: 1130-1200 Chapel Youth Middle School: 1445-1615 AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:

0600-0700 1130-1200

Thursday 1330-1500 Chapel Youth High School: Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday 1130-1200 Daily Mass: First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830

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

Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:

1100-1200

Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education: 1045-1200 1100-1200 Protestant Service: Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600

NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:

1130-1200

Weekly Traffic Report: November 27 - December 3, 2018

As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley.

Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.

DECEMBER 7, 2018

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DECEMBER 7, 2018

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GAMEZONE GREEN LARGE LIGHTS NEEDLES ORNAMENTS PINE PRESENTS PURCHASE REAL SCENT SETTING UP SKIRT SMALL

SPRUCE STAND STAR TAKING DOWN TINSEL TOPPER TRADITION TREE FARM TREE LOT TRUNK WATER YEARLY

MEDIUM

ANGEL ARTIFICIAL BRANCHES CANDY CANES CELEBRATION DECEMBER DECORATE DECORATIONS FESTIVE FRESH CUT GARLAND GIFTS

EASY

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

The remaining 53 letters spell a secret message.

DIFFICULT

Christmas Tree

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FLCSI Site Sigonella Answers the Call from bad to worse, as water started to exponentially rise throughout the base.

The safety of their people was the primaOn Oct. 19, the beautiful Sicilian morning ry concern of FLCSI leadership. A thorough started off like most others during Sicily’s rainy season. Everyone was happy because the rain muster of FLCSI identified that there were had finally decided to take a break and let the three Sailors stranded at the bulk fuels area. sun shine down on Naval Air Station (NAS) The command’s chiefs sprang into action and Sigonella. The fog rose over the airfield and the coordinated with Marines operating in Sigostreets were still wet from the previous days’ nella to rescue the Sailors with their large, showers. It was a picturesque morning. Most specialized vehicles. Elsewhere on base, due people came in to work completely oblivious to a potable water outage, NAVSUP worked to to the fact that the back corner of the base was contract and deliver drinking water for service members who live on base and personnel on already under water.

As Naval Supply Systems Command the job.

The water continued to rise throughout the (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistic Center Site Sigonella (FLCSI) personnel came into the office morning, and the ability of the base to fulfill for quarters and to execute the plan of the day, its strategic missions and fleet readiness began they noticed that the roads leading to the bulk to become a concern. As the water began to fuel storage and to our Hazardous Materials cover the airfield and the runway, NAVSUP Center were under water, but almost all other leadership (as part of the base Incident Manbuildings belonging to FLCSI were unaffected. agement Team) stood watch in the Emergency As the leadership made plans to mitigate the Operations Center with the other key players effects of the flood, the situation quickly went from the base to ensure that operability was restored to the base. FLCSI also worked with base leadership to determine the best logistical courses of actions to mitigate the effects of the flood.

In the afternoon, the water began to subside. As the water subsided, personnel were able to assess the bulk fuels area and the Hazardous Materials Center. Surprisingly, most of the buildings were undamaged, besides some small cosmetic concerns within the buildings and mud covering the ground of the surrounding area.

All FLCSI personnel reported at 0700 Saturday morning with trash bags and shovels in hand to do a Foreign Object Debris (FOD) walk-down of the flight line with representatives from the other tenant commands, clearing the runway so that air operations could resume on NAS Sigonella.

The EOC convened again over the weekend, this time focused on lessons learned and how the base can improve its response in the future. These efforts have continued even to this day and The Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella flight line submerged show how FLCSI is “ready under water as seen from the top of a fuels storage tank. (Photo to serve, ready to sustain the fight, and ready for sea.”

by Robert Ludick)

By Lt. Joe Green NASVUP FLCSI Site Sigonella

DECEMBER 7, 2018

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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 6

Siracusa Festival

Dec. 12 1900: Holy Mass is celebrated at several churches. After mass, the blessing and the free distribution of the cuccìa (cooked wheat) takes place in several houses and churches.

Tradition holds that it was first cooked in Siracusa in the 17th century after Santa Lucia worked a miracle during a terrible famine.

One story describes that Siracusa’s bishop gathered the starving people in the cathedral to pray and implore St. Lucia for a miracle.

Suddenly, a dove flew down from the sky and perched itself on the bishop’s shoulders. Right afterwards, a ship loaded with wheat docked at the port, and was then boiled and eaten by the Siracusa people. Today, cuccìa is served as a porridge enriched with ricotta cheese, chocolate, and candied fruits.

Dec. 13 (the primary day) 1030: Holy Mass celebrated at the cathedral by the archbishop of Siracusa. During the Mass, religious chants are also performed.

1530: A procession of Santa Lucia’s carriage, her statue, and holy relics are carried for seven hours from the cathedral to the Basilica of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro. Three groups of 48 men wearing green berets alternate duties. Many devotees, who also come from the neighboring cities, follow the procession barefoot holding torches.

1830: Fireworks display Dec. 20 1600: The “ottava” (the eighth day after a feast day) is celebrated with a procession of the relics leaving from Santa Lucia to the cathedral.

For more information and the full schedule visit: https://www.facebook.com/DeputazioneCappellaSantaLuciaSiracusa/

Belpasso Festival

Dec. 12 1800: A solemn procession of the holy relics in performed along via Roma.

2030: Ancient chants are sung in piazza Duomo. The centerpiece of this evening is undoubtedly the spectacular unveiling of two of the four 50-foot tall Baroque-styled Carri (mechanized floats) featuring scenes telling of the life of Santa Lucia. These will be on display in the historic center starting around 2100.

Local mastri (craftsmen) began building these mesmerizing floats in the 19th century to express their devotion to the saint.

Dec. 13 (the primary day) 0745: Unveiling of Santa Lucia’s statue 0900: Holy Mass at the main church 1100: A procession of Lucia’s 18th century silver statue and her relics leave the church and tour the historic center. A thirty-minute firework show is performed while devotees dressed in white tunics accompany the holy carriage.

1530: The religious procession is repeated throughout the town.

1630: Devotees perform the spectacular Corsa della vara (running while carrying Santa Lucia’s statue up to a slope) in via Terza Retta di Levante.

Dec. 14 1030: A solemn Holy Mass is celebrated by the Catania Archbishop 1800: A low-key procession is held in the historic center and it is opened by a repetition of the Corsa della vara.

2300: Fireworks display and music shows For more information and a detailed schedule, visit https://www.facebook. com/La-Festa-di-Santa-Lucia-a-Belpasso-1378036155805864/

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DECEMBER 7, 2018