The Signature | October 26, 2018

Children are Silent Victims of Domestic Violence PAGE 4

NAVSUP Local National Retires After 40 Years PAGE 4

Feeling the Shakes?

Read These Earthquake Safety Tips

N A S SIG O N E L L A

PAGE 5

OCTOBER 26, 2018

Vol. 35 No. 40

Autumnfest, Sigonella Style!

More Photos on Pages 8-9 Children ride a swing carousel carnival ride during NAS Sigonella's 2018 Autumnfest. 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)

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OCTOBER 26, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

Direct Line

Brigadier General Phillip A. Stewart, Commander, NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Force Greetings Sigonella, As one of the newest members of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella team, I would like to take a moment to introduce myself. After a busy transition from my role commanding the NATO Train Advise and Assist Command-Air and the 438th Air Expeditionary Wing in Afghanistan, I assumed command of the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance Force here on 10 September. I am extremely excited to be part of this multi-national community and have received a tremendous amount of support from the NAS Sigonella staff and our host nation throughout this busy PCS season. I would like to extend a special thank you to Capt. Trickel and his wife, Marla, and Col. Frare for their warm welcome, which has greatly aided in making our landing a smooth one. In the last month, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many outstanding members of the Sigonella community and I look forward to meeting many more.

I am joined in Sigonella by my wife Elizabeth and my youngest daughter, who we just welcomed to the world in July. My oldest daughter is currently at-

tending college in the United States and we are looking forward to her visiting during her school breaks. Having my family with me to enjoy all Italy has to offer is very important to me because I hold family and true friendships in the highest regard. As military service members, we all have demanding jobs which can, at times, compete with and soak up large amounts of our time.

While it can be easy to lose sight of what is most important when there are competing priorities, I believe a healthy balance results in finding, planning for, and maximizing every opportunity we can take with those we love most. Over the years, I have continued to learn the value of finding this healthy balance, and it is my true hope that everyone in the Sigonella community can do the same.

As service members, civilians, contractors, and family members, together we form a unique and extended military family. I personally maintain countless lifelong friendships built over the course of my 26-year career and am excited to build new relationships during this assignment. I count myself lucky

to be part of a NATO and Joint-U.S. community consisting of 29 diverse nations from every military service who bring an exciting array of cultural backgrounds and fresh experiences to the table. It is up to us to foster an environment of inclusiveness and respect, which form the pillars of my leadership philosophy. Learning from and collaborating with one another strengthens us as a combined force and are essential ingredients for mission success.

Over the last few months, I have observed growth on Sigonella, and as one of the new tenant commands, the significance of this base within the region cannot be overstated. I fully expect the mission here to continue to develop. Sicily is clearly a unique location and the level of collaboration between NATO Allies, our host nation, and the United States military is a key element to a much larger defense strategy. This is an exciting time to be part of the mission here, and I cannot emphasize enough the importance of the roles each of us plays as service members and as ambassadors for our respective nations.

Lastly, please do not hesitate to reach

out to me or just say hello when we cross paths. Elizabeth and I are always eager to hear from and learn about you, your families and friends, and the wonderful experiences you have enjoyed in the region. We look forward to sharing the next two years as members of this community and are here to support you in any way that we can.

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 Take 5 Customer Service:

I have gone into Take 5 on a weekend or holiday three times now and it’s totally packed with Marines, Sailors, and Airmen. I get it. My problem is when I called to ask if I could reserve a seat for the Oktoberfest event, the young lady answered the phone with an attitude like I was giving her a hard time. She constantly referred me to Community Recreation and that’s ok. I went over to the Take 5 facility just to see if I could put a name with a face and upon me entering the facility, there was no one at the desk.

After leaving Take 5 to go grab a bite to eat, I went back to Take 5 to relax and use the internet. I know the process to check in but this time, she asked me if I’m active duty 3 times. As I was trying to pull out my ID, she gave an attitude.

I wish there was better customer service at Take 5 because sometimes people do need help other than the typical video game check outs and movie requests.

Things are normally good at the establishment but today it was awful. I leave Sigonella soon, but I’m just speaking on behalf of my fellow service members who share similar complaints.

Response:

Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback about your recent experience. I would like to apologize for the less than stellar customer service that you received at our MWR Liberty Center. This type of service is not acceptable at any of our MWR facilities. Every MWR employee attends mandatory customer service training upon being hired and is held to a high standard of providing outstanding customer service to all patrons who walk into our facilities.

I assure you that your concerns will be addressed and hope that during the remainder of your stay at NAS Sigonella, you continue to visit our Liberty center and other MWR facilities.

For additional questions or concerns regarding the MWR Liberty Center, please contact the MWR Community Recreation Director, Bill Gatlin, at 6244941 or William.gatlin@eu.navy.mil.

Comment Regarding Personal Property:

I have called on multiple occasions to schedule an appointment and each time no one answers. I have personally gone to their office during working hours and still, no one was available to assist me. This is not acceptable, especially due to the fact it involves PCS moves.

Response:

The Personal Property Shipping Office (PPSO) strives to provide the best cu-

stomer support possible to the NASSIG community. Except for Italian and certain U.S. federal holidays, the PPSO is open daily, Monday through Friday from 0800-1600. They ensure that someone is always available to answer phones and that the office is continually manned. They even rotate our employees through their lunch breaks on shifts to ensure that there is someone in the office at all times.

There have been some interruptions to service due to the recent flooding. The PPSO office was released early on both 18 and 19 October. This was done as a safety precaution and directed by their command. Prior to our PPSO personnel being released, Sailors who had appointments on those days were contacted and those appointments were rescheduled for later dates.

As we approach the beginning of the holiday season the remaining calendar year closures are 1, 2, 12, and 22 November and 25 and 26 December. Any other closures due to employees taking holiday leave will be posted on the entrance to the PPSO office in advance.

For any further questions or comments regarding the Personal Property Shipping Office Director, Domenico Messina, at 624-9204 or by email at domenico.messina.it@eu.navy.mil.

Comment Regarding Pool Closure:

I am extremely disappointed that the pool is closed during the rest of the year, especially in September when it is still scorching hot. I understand closing it because kids are back in school, but there are many of us with preschool aged children who would LOVE to take their kids to the kiddie pool during the weekdays. Plus it's great to have it open for recreation during the weekends so the school kids can burn off energy. Please consider extending the recreational pool hours next year when it gets warmer! Thank you!

Response:

Thank you for your patronage and feedback about our Aquatics facilities.

Starting November 1st, we will have open swim from 1500 to 1800 at NAS 1 on Fridays. And in the spring, we plan to offer a staff-led Parent & Child program during the weekdays at the pool that will continue into the fall. Due to current fiscal constraints and our desire to continue offering recreational swim for free, we are doing our best to be creative with our current hours of operation and staffing levels. If you have more questions or comments regarding the pools, please contact Beth Cole, our Aquatics Manager, at 624-3785.

"ICE" continued on Page 3

OCTOBER 26, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 3

THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA

Name: Operations Specialist 2nd Class David Riverapaez Department: Air Operations Hometown: San Diego, CA Overseeing the operations of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, the Air Operations Department is in charge of providing airfield, air terminal, and port operations support and facilities to U.S., NATO, and coalition forces. It takes Sailors like Operations Specialist 2nd Class David Riverapaez to ensure that the nuts and bolts of NAS Sigonella’s operations are running smoothly and efficiently.

Riverapaez works in the Airfield Management Division, which is a small outfit consisting only of himself and a civilian.

Nonetheless, their division is responsible for an important role—keeping track of which aircraft exist on our airfield at any given time and determining where they should be parked. Do they have any hazardous material or explosives on board, how big are they, and how much do they weigh? Answers to these questions will dictate the safest and most logical place for them to be located on the airfield.

Another big component of his duties is compiling and distributing the daily operations brief for the NAS Sigonella commanding officer, which is then sent to the region. Its content gives a holistic view of the base’s operational status that day, and is critical and secret in nature. Prior to being assigned to the Airfield Management division, Riverapaez worked at the Air Cargo department for nine months.

Because of his critical role in helping produce the daily brief, he was transferred to his current division so that he could have a better boots-on-the-ground perspective of many of the elements that go into the brief.

On the topic of the most rewarding component about his job, Riverapaez says it’s being trusted to do an important job.

“During the day, I get phone calls all the time. It’s an exciting job. Technically I

have an LCPO, but I usually work directly with the Operations Officer, XO, or CO to relay information,” said Riverapaez.

In addition to his main duties, Riverapaez has several collateral duties, as well. He coordinates the local Bird Aircraft Airstrike Hazard program (BASH), which collects feathers and other remains and sends them to the U.S. for bird identification. Knowing what types of birds exist in the local air space can help pilots choose species-specific strategies to avoid damaging bird strikes. One such recent strike caused over $35,000 in damages to an aircraft.

Riverapaez also is an assistant Command Fitness Leader for NAS Sigonella, and has been busy helping with the PRT season.

Due to the small size of his division, he and his civilian counterpart will take turns being on call on nights and weekends to be available to meet the needs of a constantly charging aircraft inventory. Usually, they get called at least once a week but sometimes as often as every night.

"ICE" continued from Page 2

Comment Regarding Marinai Pest Control:

There are ants everywhere, inside and outside of Marinai houses. Can something please be done about this?

Response:

Thank you for your comment. I know the Marinai Housing staff hates to hear that ants are a problem in anyone’s home. As you have noticed in the last three weeks, we have had a lot of rain which has been driving ants and other insects into homes. I agree that ants are definitely a nuisance as I also had them in the kitchen of my house on NAS I recently.

Some tips on helping reduce the possibility of ants in our homes: don't leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight, empty and clean out trash containers, and keep foods that are attractive to ants in sealed containers or inside the refrigerator.

Nonetheless, the trust he has earned with his command leadership has allowed him to travel extensively with his wife in his free time. His favorite hobby while at Sigonella, in just 1.5 years he has already visited England, Ireland, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Greece, Switzerland, Hungary, Slovakia, and Japan. Next up are visits to Bucharest and Warsaw.

Riverapaez calls San Diego his hometown but originally hails from Ecuador.

After he is finished exploring Europe he hopes to get stationed in San Diego again, where his naval career first began. He plans on continuing serving in the Navy but is wisely pursuing his education in tandem to keep his options open for the future. He anticipates completing his Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice in March of 2019, and would like to be halfway done with his Bachelor’s degree before his time in Sigonella is over. One day, he’d like to become a special agent with a federal agency like the Drug Enforcement Administration. Until then, Riverapaez is busy making sure the Navy’s airfields and ships are running smoothly.

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.

If you use an outdoor grill, be sure to clean the grill and remove any food residue from the tables and patio area.

You can also buy products to kill the pests yourself (the ant gel available at the NEX cleared our kitchen of ants in just a few days). If all the above steps fail, you can call the Pizzarotti trouble-call desk to place a service call for them to spray for ants inside and outside of the home as long as weather permits. Please be advised that it may take numerous visits before the ants are gone. If you know exactly where the ants are coming from please let the technician know so that they can seal holes, cracks, and gaps on the exterior of the home.

If the problem persists please notify the Marinai Housing office and they will follow up with Pizzarotti. For any further questions please feel free to contact the Installation Housing Director, Peter Faulk, by email at peter.faulk@ eu.mil. The Pizzarotti trouble call desk can be reached at: 095-5183394/342-3471370.

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

OCTOBER 26, 2018

Behind Closed Doors: The Impact of Domestic Violence on Children From www.unicef.org

What do children need? We know the answer from our own childhoods.

First and foremost, children need a safe and secure home, free of violence, and parents who love and protect them. They need to have a sense of routine and stability, so that when things go wrong in the outside world, home is a place of comfort, help and support.

For too many children, home is far from a safe haven. Every year, hundreds of millions of children are exposed to domestic violence at home, and this has a powerful and profound impact on their lives and hopes for the future. These children not only watch one parent violently assaulting another, they often hear the distressing sounds of violence, or may be aware of it from the many other telltale signs.

“Me and my sister are scared,” says one nine-year-old girl who lives in a violent home in the United Kingdom.

“Our parents fight a lot and we fear they might split up. They fight when we're upstairs. They don't think we know what's going on, but we do.”

Violence in the home is one of the most pervasive human rights challenges of our time. It remains a largely hidden problem that few countries, communities, or families openly confront. Violence in the home is not limited by geography, ethnicity, or status; it is a global phenomenon.

Some of the Biggest Victims of Domestic Violence are the Smallest The devastating effects of domestic violence on women are well documented. Far less is known about the impact on children who witness a parent or caregiver being subjected to violence. These children – the forgotten victims of violence in the home – are the focus of a United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) report.

The findings show that children

who are exposed to violence in the home may suffer a range of severe and lasting effects. Children who grow up in a violent home are more likely to be victims of child abuse. Those who are not direct victims have some of the same behavioral and psychological problems as children who are themselves physically abused.

Children who are exposed to violence in the home may have difficulty

NAVSUP FLCSI Employee Armando Fichera Retires After 40 Years of Service

By John Ballou NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center

After forty years of dedicated service to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella bid a bittersweet farewell to Mr. Armando Fichera. Fichera has worked at NAS Sigonella since he was hired as a supply clerk in April 1978. His professionalism and outstanding performance were quickly recognized in 1981 when he was promoted to a supervisory position within the Supply Control Department. His success continued in 1982 when he earned a Meritorious Unit Commendation citation for his hard work.

Fichera was an integral part of the NAS Sigonella community, serving on the Intercultural Committee as the Vice President and President, striving to bring the many communities of Sigonella closer together. His continued successes led him to dutifully serve in many more organizations before joining the Fleet and Industrial Supply

Capt. Dion D. English, commanding officer of NAVSUP FLCSI, presents Armando Fichera with the Meritorious Civilian Service Award in recognition for his 40 years of service to NAS Sigonella. (Photo by John Ballou)

Center in October of 2004 – now known as NAVSUP FLC. The entire command is grateful for Fichera’s service and wishes him continued happiness as he begins the next chapter with his wife, two sons, and the rest of his family.

“I nostri migliori auguri!”

learning and have limited social skills, exhibit violent, risky or delinquent behavior, or suffer from depression or severe anxiety. Children in the earliest years of life are particularly vulnerable: studies show that domestic violence is more prevalent in homes with younger children than those with older children.

Several studies also reveal that children who witness domestic violence are more likely to be affected by violence as adults – either as victims or perpetrators.

Children who are exposed to violence in the home are denied their right to a safe and stable home environment. Many are suffering silently, and with little support. Children who are exposed to violence in the home need trusted adults to turn to for help and comfort, and services that will help them to cope with their experiences. Far more must be done to protect these children and to prevent domestic violence from happening in the first place.

To read the entire UNICEF report, visit https://www.unicef.org/media/ files/BehindClosedDoors.pdf Here on base, the Fleet and Family Service Center’s Family Advocacy Program helps individuals, couples, and families develop healthy relationship skills and address common relationship and parenting challenges during every stage of life. Learn more about healthy relationships by contacting the Fleet and Family Support Center at 624-4291 (DSN) or 095-564291 (commercial).

OCTOBER 26, 2018

THE SIGNATURE

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Earthquake Safety Preparedness

By Niki McBain Emergency Management Department

Has it felt like the ground has been moving a lot lately? It isn’t just you—Italy is known for being one of the most unstable locations in the Mediterranean when it comes to earthquakes, and Sicily is at the top of that list. With the seismic movement from the convergence of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, the region experiences multitudes of earthquakes daily. In fact, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV), over the course of last week we had over 80 earthquakes. In most cases, these are small and nondisruptive, however, we need to be prepared for a much greater event.

There are a number of simple measures you can take at home to ensure the safety of you and those around you in case of an earthquake. Most lightweight bookcases, cabinets, and dressers come equipped with straps to connect the furniture to the wall. Many people overlook this small safety feature, but by using it you may be able to save your cherished items that you store in these cabinets. This can also help to ensure that the item is not a tip hazard should a child climb on the furniture. If you have lost your straps, major furniture stores such as Ikea often will replace them. Our local Ikea has these straps in the spare parts bin next to the returns department. I urge all Sigonella citizens to also strap down their televisions. These are costly, fragile, and unstable pieces that during an earthquake can cause significant damage if they fall on top of someone.

In my home, I also use earthquake putty

which is a simple pliable, adhesive putty that is placed under fragile items and items of sentimental value. This helps to ensure that any earth movements do not shake items off the shelves.

This is also incredibly helpful if you have an energetic dog like mine who tends to knock into things—a lot!

Another tip is to hang all of your pictures on the wall with special earthquake-resistant wall hooks. These hooks have a special clasp that will keep pictures from wiggling off the wall during an earthquake. These can be used on a myriad of frames and are especially useful for artwork that hangs over your bed, couch, or desk chair— any place where you may be in a sedentary position when the earth starts to shake.

It is important that once you have prepared yourself to survive an earthquake, you ensure your family, friends, and co-workers are also prepared for seismic activity. Practicing earthquake drills is easy, takes minimal time, and can be a lifesaver when needed. All you need to know is “Duck, Cover, and Hold On” when the ground shakes. Moving to a doorway or outside is no longer advisable. You should also have a whistle or other signaling device accessible in the primary areas of your workplace and home that can be used during an earthquake to signal response personnel if you are located under debris.

You can track seismic activity along with volcanic eruptions by visiting the Instituto Nazionale di Geosifica e Vulcanologia (INGV) website at http://www.ct.ingv.it/en/. You can also gather additional preparedness information on the NASSIG Emergency Management’s Social Media accounts @NASSIG911.

Earthquakes are quite common in Sicily. Shown are earthquakes that have occurred in the past week with a magnitude greater than 2.0. Data provided by INGV and accessed on Oct. 25, 2018.

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THE SIGNATURE

OCTOBER 26, 2018

Sicilians Remember Loved Ones on the “Day of the Dead”

By Alberto Lunetta NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

No, this is not a horror movie and it’s not even the Sicilian version of Halloween. November 2nd is a celebration honoring departed ancestors and relatives. It is a special day in Italy, a holiday marking the celebration of dead souls. It is called “Giorno dei Morti’ (Day of the Dead or All Souls’ Day); Sicilians call it Jornu di li Morti). The departed continue to “live” and return annually to visit their loved ones. To children, it feels like Christmas time since they get a gift on the morning of Nov. 2.

This tradition shares the same historic origin of the similar Mexican and Spanish “Día de Muertos,” a time to honor and remember deceased family members and ancestors, which is rooted in the native Mexican belief that life is a preparation for the afterlife and that is it important to keep a spiritual connection with departed loved ones. Just as it happens in Mexico, Sicilians cook special traditional food and visit cemeteries.

I still vividly remember, when I was a child, the excitement that drove me to search every corner of the house looking for the presents that, according to my parents, my dead grandfather had left for me over the night. I knew his spirit was still around and I was sure that he had magically snuck into my house the night before to bring me my favorite toys and sweets. I also recall my disappointment when I realized, as I grew older, that the regali (gifts) were actually given by my parents.

To some, the idea of the spirits of the dead paying a “holiday visit” to people’s homes might sound spooky and macabre. But it is all a matter of perspective. Usually, the concept of afterlife raises rational fears and concerns, conjuring up images of dead people, ghosts, witches, or even the devil.

But for Sicilians, the “Giorno dei Morti” is indeed a cherished day. The belief underlying this celebration is that the spirits of the dead return to earth on this day to be with their families and loved ones to eat, drink, and be merry and to relive good memories.

The Day of Dead is actually an ancient festivity and has pagan origins that are rooted in the changing cycle of natural renewal. The return of the departed souls marked the beginning of the new agriculture cycle that was intended to celebrate the continuity of life. By giving presents to their children on behalf of the ancestors, parents keep the bond between the departed and the living alive. In doing so, children view their deceased relatives not as scary entities of the afterlife but more so as guardian angels from heaven.

In Catholic tradition, the “Giorno dei Morti” is a day on which believers gather with their family members to make a pilgrimage to the cemeteries where their relatives lie waiting for the Day of Resurrection. According to some historians, early Christians created this religious celebration that blended elements from the Holy Scriptures with pagan traditions.

Italian novelist and playwright Giovanni Verga vividly describes this tradition in one of his famous novels: “On the ‘Day of the Dead,’ walking on tiptoes, mothers put toys and sweets in the tiny shoes of their children while they are dreaming of long lines of white ghosts carrying glittering presents. Smiling young girls try on, in front of the mirror, the earrings or the brooch they were given by their fiancées.”

In the past, a traditional prayer was also said by Sicilian children before going to bed on the night of November 1, the day before the Day of Dead. “Armi santi, armi santi, io sugnu unu e vuatri tanti. Mentri sugnu ‘ni stu munnu di guai, cosi ri morti mittiminni assai!” (Holy souls, holy souls, there are many

Be ready to tempt your taste buds with the traditional Pupi ri zuccaru or puppets of boiled sugar that are among the most popular “Day of the Dead” ancient religious holiday treats.

They are baked into symbolic shapes. You will find them in all pasticcerie (pastry shops) and panifici (bakeries). (Photo by https://italianocontesti.ru)

of you and I’m one. Bring me a lot of presents while I’m in this world of troubles). This old religious poem is reminiscent of a letter a child might write to Santa Claus.

Until 1943, as discussed by world-renowned Sicilian author Andrea Camilleri, Sicilian children used to place a wicker basket under their beds in the hope that their deceased loved one would bring them toys and sweets. Then, children would reciprocate the gifts that they’d

found in the morning by visiting the graves of their relatives, Camilleri wrote.

Historical chronicles also confirm this tradition. Giacinto Farina, a priest in the last century, wrote that in the past, Sicilian children used to leave their shoes on the windowsills in the hope that their dead relatives would place gifts in them. Superstition holds that dead rela-

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14

OCTOBER 26, 2018

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THE SIGNATURE

Chiefs Reaffirm Commitment to NATO Missions, Look to Future Needs

By Jim Garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity

WARSAW, Poland -- The NATO Military Committee reaffirmed the alliance’s commitment to Afghanistan and Iraq and moved ahead with plans to restructure NATO to improve its military capabilities, the committee’s chairman last month.

This was British Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach’s first meeting of the alliance’s defense chiefs as the chairman of the Military Committee. He said the discussions among the 29 chiefs of defense – including Marine Corps Gen. Joe Dunford, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff – “were frank and thought-provoking throughout.”

Peach spoke alongside Lt. Gen. Rajmund Andrzejczak of the Polish army, Poland’s top military officer, who hosted the meeting.

The chiefs have given their guidance on a number of issues facing the alliance, Peach said, and that guidance will be discussed further at the meeting of NATO’s defense ministers in Brussels this week.

The chiefs support current NATO operations and looked for better coherence and coordination with organizations operating in the same regions with similar goals, the committee chairman said.

The chiefs understand that Afghanistan still faces significant challenges, but they still support the fight in that country, Peach said, acknowledging that the Taliban and terror groups continue to visit violence on the people of Afghanistan and continue to challenge Afghan forces.

“But in the face of these challenges, Afghan security forces are doing an outstanding job,” the air marshal said. “They have now been in the lead for three years, and we welcome their determination and commitment to improve their ability to conduct

British Air Chief Marshal Sir Stuart Peach, right, chairman of the NATO Military Committee, briefs reporters after a meeting of the alliance’s defense chiefs with Lt. Gen. Rajmund Andrzejczak, Poland’s top military officer and the host for the meeting, in Warsaw, Poland, Sept. 29, 2018. (NATO photo)

offensive operations, to develop their special forces, their air force and other capabilities -- and above all, to deny the Taliban their strategic objectives.”

Peace Through Reconciliation The NATO mission in Afghanistan is to support, train, assist and advise Afghan forces. The ultimate goal for the country is peace through reconciliation.

“An Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process is essential to a long-term, inclusive political settlement,” Peach said.

The NATO mission in Iraq will be modest and scalable and complement the efforts of coalition nations in the country, he said.

The chiefs looked at current means and capabilities and what will be needed in the future, Peach said. This included a look at the deterrence posture today and what forces in the future will need to ensure security and stability in the future.

“We stressed the need to look to the future, and

“NATO” continued on Page 15

Navy, Gerard Butler Collaborate to Tell 21st Century Submarine Yarn WASHINGTON -- Hollywood came to the Pentagon today as actor Gerard Butler spoke to Pentagon reporters about his collaboration with the U.S. Navy in making “Hunter Killer,” a submarine movie due out this week.

The Pentagon press briefing studio was filled to capacity as Butler – who plays the commander of the fictional attack sub USS Arkansas in the movie – answered questions about the experience.

The movie posits an operation aimed at averting war with Russia.

Butler said it is a chance to bring the submarine genre into the 21st century. “Hunter Killer” is a chance to take viewers into submarines and let them see the culture, “and really see how these people think, work, their courage, their intelligence, basically their brilliance,” the actor said.

The plot alternates between the

“BUTLER” continued on Page 15

Actor Gerard Butler and Navy Vice Adm. Fritz Roegge, current president of the National Defense University, speak about the movie “Hunter Killer” during a Pentagon news conference, Oct. 15, 2018. DOD photo by Jim Garamone

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OCTOBER 26, 2018

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Costumes a

Autumnfe

An audience dances to live music by the German band “Die Hallers” during NAS Sigonella’s 2018 Autumnfest. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)

A runner attempts to doge a zombie during the annual Zombie Run at NAS Sigonell’s Autumnfest. (Photo by Randy Latimer)

Volunteers hand out candy to children at the trick or treat lane during NAS Sigonella’s 2018 Autumnfest. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)

Zombie Run volunteers pose for a photo during NAS Sigonella’s 201

Anthony Perroni flips a tire weighing approximately Sigonella’s 2018 Autumnfest. (U.S. Navy photo by Chi

OCTOBER 26, 2018

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and Culture:

est 2018

18 Autumnfest. (Photo by Randy Latimer)

200 pounds during a Strongman competition at NAS ief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)

Children play in an inflatable obstacle course during NAS Sigonella’s 2018 Autumnfest. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)

A child plays in an inflatable obstacle course during NAS Sigonella’s 2018 Autumnfest. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)

Children in Halloween costumes wait in line for candy at the trick or treat lane during NAS Sigonella’s 2018 Autumnfest. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas)

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OCTOBER 26, 2018

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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:

VOLLEYBALL GAMES THIS WEEKEND

Command: Sigonella Middle/High School Date of Event: October 26 & 27, 2018 Location of Event: Sigonella High School GYM on NAS I Point of Contact Name: Michelle Chandler Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4281 Point of Contact Email Address: Michelle.chandler@eu.dodea.edu Additional Information: Come out and watch the Sigonella Jaguar Boys and Girls volleyball team against the Naples Wildcats.

Friday: 1600 Sig Girls Varsity vs. Naples Girls Varsity (Best 3 of 5) 1730 Senior Recognition 1800 Sig Boys Varsity vs. Naples Boys Varsity (Best 3 of 5) Saturday: 0900 Sig Girls Varsity vs. Naples Girls Varsity (Best 3 of 5) 1030 Sig Girls JV vs. Naples Girls JV (Best 2 of 3)/ Running 50-MinuteClock 1130 Sig Boys Varsity vs. Naples Boys Varsity (Best 3 of 5) Come out and support our Jaguar athletes in their fierce competition this weekend!

SIGONELLA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MATH LUNCH WORKSHOP FOR K-5 PARENTS

Command: Sigonella Elementary School Date of Event: November 5, 2018 Time of Event: 1100-1200 Location of Event: Sigonella Elementary School Computer Lab Point of Contact Name: Mrs. Contessa Edwards Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4406 Point of Contact Email Address: contessa.edwards@dodea.edu Additional Information: Sigonella Elementary School is offering a Math Lunch Workshop for Kindergarten-5th grade parents. Learn how to login and navigate through the Think Central's online resources for students. You will find access to your child's textbook online, video tutorials, assignments and other resources to help your child with math at home.

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

0600-0700 1130-1200

Thursday Chapel Youth High School: 1330-1500 1545-1700 Choir Practice: The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday Daily Mass: 1130-1200 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 Protestant Service: 1100-1200 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: October 15 - October 21, 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.

OCTOBER 26, 2018

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OCTOBER 26, 2018

OCTOBER 26, 2018

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GAMEZONE FEAST FROST HALLOWEEN HARVEST HAYSTACK HICKORY NUTS LONGER NIGHTS NOVEMBER OCTOBER ORANGE LEAVES PIE PUMPKIN

RAKE RED LEAVES SCARECROW SCHOOL SEASON SEPTEMBER SHORTER DAYS SQUASH SWEET POTATOES THANKSGIVING TURKEY WINDY YELLOW LEAVES

MEDIUM

ACORN APPLE BIRD MIGRATION BLOWING LEAVES BLUSTERY DAY CANNING CHESTNUTS CHILLY COLD CROPS EQUINOX FALL FARMING

EASY

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

The remaining letters spell a secret message - an Albert Camus quotation.

DIFFICULT

Autumn

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Women’s Health Month—Week 4 Nutrition and Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy From Naval Marine Corps Public Health Center Lt. Mark Knutson USNH Sigonella

Every healthy pregnancy includes weight gain by the mother. You should gain weight gradually, with most of it gained in the last three months. Many doctors suggest that pregnant women gain between one and four pounds during the first trimester and two to four pounds monthly during the second and third trimesters. The total amount of weight you should gain during your pregnancy depends on your pre-pregnancy weight. Women whose weight was in the healthy range before becoming pregnant should gain between 25 and 35 pounds while pregnant. The advice is different for those who were overweight or underweight before becoming pregnant.

If you gain too much weight during pregnancy, it can be harder to lose the weight after your baby is born. Most women who gain the suggested amount of weight lose it with the birth of the baby and in the months that follow. Breastfeeding for longer than three months can also help you lose weight gained during pregnancy. If you gain too little weight during pregnancy, you may have a higher risk for a premature delivery and a low birth weight infant.

To better manage a healthy pregnancy diet, develop a “MyPlate Plan” specific to your pregnancy by visiting http://www.choosemyplate.gov. You will learn how many overall calories to consume daily during each trimester and how much to eat from each food group.

If you determine that you are gaining weight too fast, cut back on the calories you are currently eating. The easiest way to do that is by decreasing the amount of extra sugars and solid fats in your diet like soft drinks, desserts, fried foods, cheese, whole milk, and fatty meats. Look for choices that are low-fat, fat-free, unsweetened, or with no-added-sugars. If you are not gaining weight, or gaining too slowly, you will need to consume more calories. You can do this by eating a little more from each food group.

For more nutrition information for pregnancy or breastfeeding visit the USDA’s http://www.choosemyplate.gov/moms-pregnancy-breastfeeding

Navy Lt. Jessica Miller, a certified nurse midwife in Naval Hospital Jacksonville’s pregnancy Integrated Practice Unit, assesses a patient. (U.S. Navy photo

by Jacob Sippel)

"ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 tives “turn themselves into ants” so they can easily enter homes to fill the baskets and the socks prepared by the kids with gifts.

Sicilian cultural anthropologist Giuseppe Pitrè also explains: “On the night between November 1 and 2, the departed leave their scary dwelling and go to elegant stores in town to steal toys, new clothes, and sweets. It is an ‘innocent stealing’ that is aimed at donating gifts to children that have been behaving during the year.”

Over the past few years, the Day of Dead has competed with the pagan Halloween holiday, raising concern among some Catholics and even the Vatican who fear that the latter might overshadow this ancient religious celebration. And this is probably due to the fact that Halloween falls before the popular All Saints Day, a meaningful Catholic holiday full of reverence for the Saints. So, while Halloween parties are annually organized across the country in discos and clubs, some groups of Catholics and priests slate rallies to discourage families from dressing their children in Halloween costumes.

Traditional Sweets and Fairs In Sicily, like many other holidays and festivals, special cakes are made into symbolic shapes for the Day of Dead. The traditional “cosi ruci” (sweets) include “Frutta Martorana” (Martorana fruits), a confection of almond paste made into the shape of different fruits, “N’zuddi” (almond cookies), cocoa-based cookies (“Rame di Napoli”, “Totò”, and “Bersaglieri”), and

“Ossa di morti” (bones of the dead), crunchy cookies that were once shaped as skulls and fingers. They are made by using white dough that contrasts with the dark base where the sugar has darkened close to the pan during baking and “Pupi ri zuccaru” or puppets of boiled sugar.

Many customs are associated with the All Souls Day’s celebration. It is customary to set up a “Fiera dei Morti” (Day of the Deads Fair). This year the fiera will open tomorrow morning (Oct. 27) and it will be set up in a parking lot near the Catania airport through Nov. 2. The fair, which is usually open from 9 a.m. until midnight, features a variety of items such as rugs, furniture, shoes, clothing, arts and crafts, antiquities, food, and more. Traffic will be restricted in the fair area. Parking spaces will be set up in the adjoining streets and will be limited. Carpooling and parking away from the festival area is strongly recommended.

Other fairs will be held across the island. In Palermo, the “Fiera dei Morti” will run from October 31 thru November 2 at the Parco Villa Filippina park. In Tremestieri Etneo, besides the traditional Day of the Dead Fair, the town’s historic center will host the Fiera dell’Iris e dell’Arancino, a food festival celebrating two Sicilian specialties. Iris (the version found in the Catania area) is a deep-fried round pastry filled with either white or chocolate cream and arancini are deep-fried rice ball filled with either ragu sauce or cheese, spinach, pistachio, and even black squid ink.

OCTOBER 26, 2018 “NATO” cont’d from Page 7 where possible, anticipate future requirements, based on the analysis provided by our strategic commanders,” he said. “We emphasized that the strategy should guide all current and future military work strands, including emerging domains.”

The chiefs doubled down on support for the NATO Readiness Initiative. This grew out of the alliance’s summit in July, and it looks to increase responsiveness, heighten readiness and improve reinforcement across the alliance, he said.

Wide Range of Threats The committee chairman noted that the alliance faces a wide range of threats and challenges from existential problems, including Russia, terrorism, criminal gangs and individuals. “The chiefs of defense highlighted the importance of keeping pace with technological advances through a focus on innovation,” he said.

Questions from reporters for the air marshal were all about Russia, not surprising, given where this meeting occurred. Peach ad-

“BUTLER” continued from Page 7 submarine, a special operations team inserted in Russia and the Pentagon.

Navy Vice Adm. Fritz Roegge, now the president of the National Defense University, was the commander of the U.S. Submarine Force in the Pacific. “I was privileged to host Mr. Butler in Pearl Harbor for an orientation to the submarine force,” the admiral said.

The Navy supported the effort even as the service remained “laser-focused” on warfighting in today's era of great power competition.

“But we're also competing for talent, and in this dynamic economy, it's more important than ever that we find ways to inspire the next generation of warfighters to consider serving our country in the Navy,” Roegge said.

Only a small fraction of young Americans qualify to serve in the military. An even smaller number are aware of the opportunities the services offer. “Although the Navy benefits from technology that gives us the world’s most capable platforms and equipment, it is our people who are truly our greatest strength,” Roegge said. “In the words of another great Scotsman – John Paul Jones – ‘Men mean more than guns in the rating of a ship.’ So we will only remain the world’s greatest Navy by attracting the best talent from across our nation.”

Connecting With Young Americans Movies are a good way to reach young Americans and they are also a good vehicle to expose all Americans to their Navy, Roegge said. All Americans need to understand “they

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dressed the risks emanating from the country, but he noted that NATO is a large and capable military organization.

“NATO has the capability to understand the risk picture it faces, and sometimes those risks can turn into threats, but NATO studies the risks that are out there as they evolve and continues to adapt to them,” he said.

He noted that the alliance’s Enhanced Forward Presence initiative in the Baltic Republics and Poland is a response to Russia illegally annexing Crimea from Ukraine and fomenting war in eastern Ukraine. “And in that sense, NATO continues to deter,” the air marshal said.

But there are threats to the south, too, and there are different threats and perceptions, depending on where one stands.

“We do not have the time to go through all of them, but they will vary with the geography of the alliance,” Peach said. “At the moment, we have a series of risks that we have identified, and we respond with presence, with training, with exercises in order to generate deterrence. … That is what the alliance is for. And that provides the sense of collective security for the people of Poland and the people of the other NATO allies know their Navy: who we are, what we do, and why it matters.”

Butler was immersed in the submarine culture sailing aboard the USS Houston from Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Being aboard the submarine was like being in another world, he said. “I felt like I could spend a year just in sonar. But I was shipped from sonar to the bridge, to navigation to the engine room to the torpedo room because I had a very quickminded sub commander who wanted to show me every working living part of the submarine – even how to compress trash.”

Butler added, “What I really took out of it was the brilliance and the humility of the sailors I worked with. Not that I didn’t have that appreciation before – I certainly did – but having spent time with them to realize how their minds work and how agile and how creative they have to be. And they are constantly being tested to prove themselves to think logically, to think intuitively, and in all different matters.”

And it was real for Butler. “You can do it in a movie, but when you are actually on a sub, you realize the dangers that are there,” he said.

“You are a thousand feet underwater and you go, ‘Okay. What are the different ways things can go wrong?’ You have a greater appreciation of what these people do every day unsung and unseen and their courage and valor.”

DOD officials approved the request in December 2014, and the Navy provided access and technical support to the filmmakers.

Officials stressed that support to “Hunter Killer” or any other movie is done at zero cost to the American taxpayer.

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Workout Nutrition for High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Adapted by MWR Fitness From ACE Fitness Nutrition

If you feel sluggish during or after your workout and are wondering why, we might have the answer for you. It could be due to what kinds of food and drink you are consuming and when. To maximize your fitness program, it is important to follow a healthy meal plan. Effective and well-rounded nutrition is based on a variety of ingredients such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins. Striving to consume an adequate amount of calories and macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, will help fuel the body and provide energy stores not only for your workouts but for the rest of your day as well. Here are some tips to help you fuel up.

In the day and hours leading up to your workout you should plan on a moderate to high carbohydrate meal that includes protein approximately three to four hours before the HIIT workout. Afterwards, consume another high-carbohydrate snack within an hour post-workout. Good options for a preworkout meal include: • Whole-wheat toast with peanut butter and banana • Non-fat greek yogurt or cottage cheese with fruit • Dried fruit and almonds The biggest nutritional concern post-workout is replacing energy stores (glycogen) and repairing muscles that have been broken down during intense exercise. Again, a combination of carbohydrates and protein has been shown to be most effective. Research shows that a 3:1 ratio of carbohydrates to protein within 30 minutes of completing a HIIT workout is best for replacing energy stores in preparation for the next high-intensity workout. Suggestions for post-workout nutrition are similar to pre-workout meals and include: • Whole-grain cereal with fruit and soy milk • Whole-wheat crackers with fruit and cheese • Hummus and pita bread The best pre- and post-workout nutrition boosts energy and results so make sure that you are fueling your body right!

Pfc. Shelby Sullenger, a supply clerk with the 10th Combat Support Hospital, participates in a High Intensity Interval Training class as part of the unit's monthly fitness challenge on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, March 5, 2016. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. David N. Beckstrom, 19th Public Affairs Detachment, U.S. Army Central)

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OCTOBER 26, 2018