The Signature | September 1, 2017

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center: New HAZMAT Lockers

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Labor Day:

Photo Centerspread:

Safety Message

Verona and the Northern Lakes

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

Vol. 34 No. 32

NAS Sigonella Breaks Ground on New Entry Control Point Facility

by Jessica R. Vargas Chief Mass Communication Specialist

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella broke ground on the construction of the new entry control point (ECP) facility at NAS II Aug. 21.

NAS II's current ECP is located directly on an intersection of two provincial highways, with sentries located directly on the property line, with no setback.

Eighty-four percent of NAS II’s traffic arrives from the north, resulting in lengthy queues of vehicles and pedestrians on the busy public highways, which can pose security and safety risks to our installation population.

“The existing ECP was constructed in 1989,” said Lawrence Trueworthy, project manager. “This was prior to the revised Anti-terrorism/Force Protection design and operational criteria that emerged following the events of September 11, 2001.”

The new ECP facility design will significantly enhance security measures. Security is a central feature in the eight lines of operation that maintain an installation's warfighting capabilities. Just as a ship performs lines of operation which provide a capability, Navy Region EURAFSWA bases perform the same lines of operation to provide capability to the fleet, joint, and allied forces.

“The new entry control point includes the latest Anti-terrorism/Force Protection measures,” said Lewis Biddlecome, NAS Sigonella physical security officer.

“Security department has been involved with this project since the inception and has worked hand in hand with NAVFAC to ensure the ECP concept, design and final product meet the required force protection standards. This will ensure a more secure force protection posture for the installation.”

The new design will also maximize the flow of traffic reducing delays that may affect installation operations or off installation public highway users.

“The design expedites the flow of traffic during peak hours and cuts down on the amount of vehicles on the public roads waiting to get on base,” said Isabelle Rico, supervisory general engineer, NAVFAC. “It also reduces the manning requirement at the gate by eliminating the need for traffic directors during these times.”

The ECP facility project will be constructed on approximately 10 acres and will include a gate house, a canopied vehicle inspection to facilitate vehicle identification check for commercial and privately owned vehicles (POV), a new visitor control center, two sentry houses located at the commercial vehicle and POV inspection canopies and two pedestrian shelters.

Construction will be completed in five phases to minimize the impact to the community.

“Originally the contract was set up to close the existing ECP for 90 days while construction was taking place,” said Rico.

“The contractor was able to come up with a unique way of phasing the project so we don’t have to close the main gate. This is a huge bonus for us.”

The $5 million ECP facility project, awarded to Environmental Chemical Corporation, is scheduled to be completed August 2018.

SIGONELLA, Sicily– (from left to right) Abdennebi Essouiba, project manager for Environmental Chemical Corporation; Capt. Achille Penna, deputy public works officer for 41st Stormo; Lt. Col. Alessandro Arena, security officer for 41st Stormo; Col. Federico Fedele, Sigonella Italian base commander; Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella; Cdr. Michael Jarosz, NAS Sigonella public works officer, Naval Facilities Engineering Command EURAFSWA(NAVFAC EURAFSWA); Lt. Cmdr. Allen Richmond, NAS Sigonella security officer; Isabelle Rico, supervisory general engineer, NAVFAC, and Giuseppe Valenti, engineering technician participate in a ground breaking ceremony for the new entry control point facility at NAS II. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Jessica Vargas/Released)

A rendering of the new entry control point facility. (Courtesy of Naval Facilities Engineering Command Europe Africa Southwest Asia )

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

Direct Line

Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran, NAS Sigonella Executive Officer Greetings Sigonella, After two weeks of extensive and thorough turnover with Cmdr. McKinney I am now flying solo and getting the lay of the land as the newest Executive Officer of NAS Sigonella. I owe XO McKinney a debt of gratitude for his insight and guidance over the past two weeks, and for his leadership and dedication over the past three years. I cannot recall another time in my career in which I received a more in-depth and meaningful pass-down, or as warm a welcome from both him and his family. Fair winds and Following Seas to them as they pursue another adventure in Northern Europe.

I also owe the same thanks to Capt.

Trickel and his wife Marla for welcoming my family and I to the Sigonella community and supporting us during the transition.

A little more than eight years ago I had orders in hand to transfer from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA to the NAVCENT staff at NSA Bahrain. A couple of months before the transfer I received word from my detailer that I was still going to Bahrain but would be the installa-

tion executive off icer. There was no time, or funding, to send me to the usual schools prior to transfer so I had to learn on the job.

As a helicopter pilot by trade, I was only accustomed to squadron operations and carrier deployments. The inner-workings of an installation were completely foreign to me and it was the most intense learning experience I had ever had in my career. However, after a few months in job I had realized that I absolutely loved it. It was such a professionally satisfying experience that I sought more opportunity at the installation level.

After Bahrain I was fortunate enough to get orders as the operations officer, then as executive officer at Naval Station Rota, Spain. That experience only helped to solidify my fondness for the work, my respect for the commands we support, and my admiration for the people who make the installation run on a daily basis.

Following Rota I transferred to Commander, Navy Installations Command in Washington DC, our headquarters with cognizance over 71 naval installations across the globe. There I

served with and learned from another group of extremely bright professionals who spoke what I thought was a completely different language, and who worked a different set of problems from what I was used to. I learned firsthand how competing funding requirements, program metrics, and budget cycles directly affect how Sailors at the installation do their jobs. It was an eyeopening experience and one that I am grateful for having. However, I sorely missed the work at the installation.

When the time came to secure followon orders I was extremely fortunate to come back to an installation, come back to Region EURAFSWA, and come to Naval Air Station Sigonella.

No day in the job is the same as the day before, the challenges are myriad and varied, and the chance to work with such a diverse amalgamation of motivated professionals is unparalleled.

To our Italian hosts I wish to say that I am honored and privileged to be able to serve aboard the installation, and I look forward to strengthening the close bonds with our Italian and NATO partners.

To the many commands NAS Sigonella hosts and supports I’d like to say that I am certainly looking forward to getting to your facilities and spaces and understanding more fully what it is that you do. More importantly I want to know what myself and the NASSIG team can do to set the stage for your success.

Finally, to the NASSIG team I want to say that I am extremely proud and grateful to be here. You are my heroes and you are why I love this job. I look forward to getting to work with you, as well as for you.

Grazie mille Sigonella

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

Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program!

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

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

Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “BZ Religious Ministries Department”:

As a spiritual leader to our church community, the shepherd of the Sigonella “flock,” both Rachel and I – as well as many others I know – have deeply appreciated Chaplain Constantine’s genuine approach to worship on Sunday mornings.

We’ve been challenged over the last few years to grow in our faith here in Sigonella. By God’s awesome GRACE, we have. And he’s a part of the story of that awesome grace in our lives. Back in the States, Christian worshipers have a wide selection of churches to fit their style of worship. Here in Sicily, the selection is much smaller. We made a commitment early on to commit to the Sigonella Chapel as our church home. From our earliest times here in Sigonella (which goes back to well over two years), there were nuances about the Sunday worship we simply weren’t used to. Then a change happened in us. Instead of driving home on Sunday afternoon and commenting on the differences we weren’t used to, and chatting with other worshippers about the nuances throughout the week, we decided to just get involved, to be committed, to be a part of it all, rather than stand at a distance and be non-participatory in our own church body. It’s that moment the Sigonella Chapel began to become our

real church body, our home church. I’ll tell you, I was away for almost three weeks during a TDY to Bahrain a while back, and when I came home, and specifically to the Sigonella Chapel, being at the chapel helped me to feel fully “back at home.”

The other day, when Rachel told me about the upcoming change in Sunday morning worship beginning mid-August, a part of me was saddened. As I mentioned earlier, Rachel and I – and I know others too – have deeply appreciated the Anglican approach to worship. Indeed, I think the American church has lost some of its rootedness in the profound and undeniable mystery of our faith, and the humility we ought to have in coming to the place where we meet with God. The prayers, too, are formative, and in leading the Church together in communal prayers, I sense God’s heart turning to us as we collectively turn to Him. To put it simply, my faith has deepened significantly through the months of Anglican worship. And what’s more too, your passion and courage to lead the congregation in a new way is inspiring, genuine, and peels back from our eyes the oft-chic way of doing church, and Chaplain Constantine’s

"ICE" continued on Page 3

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief Acting CMC ATCS Bill Rhodes

Name: Christopher Crouch, CSSR Department: Galley Hometown: Lawton, Oklahoma Ashore galleys Navy-wide serve more than 28 million meals annually, with diverse meals ranging from Asian, Mexican and Italian cuisine, along with a touch of local flavor. Those meals wouldn’t available without Sailors like Culinary Specialist Seaman Recruit Christopher Crouch.

Crouch works at the Galley on NAS Sigonella, primarily loading and unloading food to the proper fridge, freezer or dry area, and helping out with food preparation, and he occasionally jumps on the line and serves food.

Since graduating boot camp in late March, Crouch has focused his energy on volunteering and being a wellrounded Sailor.

“I want to get out there, do well in the Navy and be the best I can be,” said Crouch. “Volunteering helps me to be better and it also gets my face out there so people know and recognize me.”

Crouch has volunteered for the NASSIG Holiday Committee, the Fourth of July Red, White and Boom event, the local High School cleanup

EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil

and more.

When Crouch isn’t working or volunteering his free time, he can be found working out, taking tours, or playing video games.

“I love to work out. Every weekend I try some new food and I literally work out to eat the food,” said Crouch.

“I’ve noticed that since I’ve been here they really like to feed you and they feed you really good food.”

"ICE" continued from Page 2 ministry to us is helping us to see Jesus in a new way. For that I thank him. And I thank him for listening to Jesus the way he has. He’s new to the Anglican style of worship, and he could have more easily chosen to worship in the way he has always known. That would have been the easier and safer way. But Jesus isn’t about “easy” and He certainly isn’t about “safer.” And neither is Chaplain Constantine.

I also want to mention I appreciate his willingness to serve the Sigonella community in this new service structure beginning in August. He is taking more time during his weekend to lead the Anglican service on Saturday night in addition to the regular Sunday morning service. He’s doing it without any reluctance, but rather from a genuine desire for Sigonellans to come together to worship in ways where they can draw closer to God. His mission, as well as the other chaplains, is to foster our community’s relationship with Christ in the best way possible. So Chaps - and to all the chaplains - thanks for the commitment to us.

With deepest appreciation, Josh Rosenbush

Response:

LT Rosenbush, Thank you for taking the time to share these sentiments with me and Sigonella. I’m happy to hear that our NASSIG chaplains are engaged with and caring for the Sigonella community.

I appreciate your point on the diversity of worship opportunities that can be found in the United States but are less prevalent here in Sicily. The Religious Ministry Department (RMD) works hard to provide a diversity of religious opportunities for the Sigonella Community. However, to provide the same diversity of religious opportunities that can be

Crouch intends to make a full career out of the Navy, and plans on leaving NAS Sigonella as a Petty Officer 3rd Class. Being from a small town in Oklahoma, the experience of being in the Navy and living in Sicily is an abnormality.

“I like how I’m able to go out and do what I want to do over here,” said Crouch. “I get to go out in town, go shopping, go explore Sicily and travel.”

found in the United States would require many more chaplains than we’re billeted for. That said, NASSIG’s RMD is now staffed in a manner to provide a wider range of worship opportunities than it has been in recent years. This ability to increase the diversity of worship opportunities factored into the decision to add a Saturday evening liturgical-Protestant service and to change the Sunday morning Protestant service to a non-liturgical Protestant format. By adding a Saturday evening liturgical-Protestant service vice adding another Sunday morning service, the Sigonella Community was able to gain another worship opportunity without impacting the scheduling of other worship opportunities. As exciting as it is to be able to provide more diverse religious opportunities for the Sigonella Community, the RMD is still limited in what it can directly provide in regards to religious opportunities.

However, the RMD is equipped to facilitate for religious opportunities that it can’t provide for. Facilitation is often done through the training and appointing of lay leaders.

In the event that the RMD cannot provide a particular religious opportunity that is requested by members of the Sigonella Community, a lay leader may be appointed to offer that opportunity. A lay leader is a person certified by their religious tradition’s governing body, trained by the RMD, and appointed to the lay leader collateral duty in order to offer religious opportunities within their religious tradition on a volunteer basis. Lay leaders work closely with the chaplains to ensure members of their religious tradition have the opportunity to practice their faith. If any member of the Sigonella Community has a question about the religious opportunities provided by the RMD or is interested in finding out more about how other religious opportunities can be facilitated by the RMD, please contact the NAS I Chapel at x3975 or email at: sigonellarmt@eu.navy.mil.

"ICE" continued on Page 14

CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron.

A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy.

Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands.

Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy. mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella’s Receives New Hazardous Material Lockers

By Lt. Micah Wallin Hazardous Material Officer

SIGONELLA, Sicily (NNS) -- “At last, they are here!” exclaims Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella employee Francesco Furnari as he looks upon the a flat-bed truck bringing in a much-needed upgrade to the hazardous material external lockers at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Hazardous Material Center.

According to Mr. Furnari, the old containers are at least 20 years old, if not older.

“They have been here since I started working here 20 years ago,” he explained. The new external lockers store 128 55-gallon drums, doubling the storage capacity of the previous lockers, but also contain a much needed fire suppression system.

“It gets hot during the summer months. This year it has

already hit 115 degrees Fahrenheit, so the contents inside the lockers are definitely hotter,” says logistics specialist first class David Rodriguez.

This makes the fire suppression system that much more important.

As the criticality of NAS Sigonella’s participation in real world events increases, the Hazardous Material Center requirements to store more hazardous material to support missions has increased.

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella is one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP GLS, which provides global logistics, business and support services to fleet, shore and industrial commands of the Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Air Force, Army and allied forces. Services include contracting, regional transportation, fuel, material management, household goods movement support, postal

and consolidated mail, warehousing, global logistics and husbanding, hazardous material management, and integrated logistics support.

NAVSUP GLS provides

global logistics to a global navy. The command is made up of more than 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide, provid-

ing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

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2017 Labor Day Safety Message Labor Day, originating in 1882 as a "day off for the working man", became a federal holiday in 1894. The original celebration of Labor Day was outlined in the first proposal of the holiday--a street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations," followed by a festival for the workers and their families. The long Labor Day weekend also marks the unofficial end of summer. For some, this is the last chance to participate in summer outdoor activities and events before the warm weather draws to a close.

During this long holiday weekend, I ask that you be smart, safe, and use common sense. The great majority of past Labor Day mishaps occurred during recreational activities. Alcohol and off-duty recreation, both ashore and in the water, don't mix.

Across the Navy and Marine Corps in FY17 we have had 13 off duty/recreational fatalities. Six were water related such as swimming and boating. Don't try to pack

all those summer activities into one weekend. Do your Operational Risk Management, be safe, and take care of yourself, your family and your shipmates.

Many of you have travel plans for the long weekend. Please remember that traffic accidents are one of our most frequent hazards. In FY17 there were 159 traffic accidents with 24 of those resulting in injuries. Remember to slow down, drive defensively and drive safely. The Navy has lost one Sailor to a private motor vehicle mishap during each Labor Day holiday over the past six years. If you are traveling away from your duty station by car this weekend, fill out a travel risk planning system (trips) report. Don't drink and drive.

If your weekend activities involve alcohol, have a plan and arrange for a designated driver. “Drive to survive Sigonella�!

Have fun, be safe, and look out for one another!

Capt. B.A.Trickel

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

Ognina Virgin Mary Festival to be held on Sept. 9/10 Story by Alberto Lunetta

Thousands of visitors and pilgrims will again swarm the streets and squares of the Ognina district in Catania to celebrate the Festa della Madonna di Ognina (Feast of the Virgin Mary of Ognina), a traditional religious festival honoring the Madonna taking place from Sept. 1 through 10 in the small harbor of Ognina. The highlight of the festival will be on Saturday, 9 and 10 September but the festival preparation will begin tonight.

The Ognina fishermen’s neighborhood in Catania will pay homage to the beloved Holy Mary who is believed to protect fishing boats crews during their work out at sea. Catholics venerate a countless number of patron saints but honor Mary with a special devotion. Millions of people around the world and in the Spanish/Italian-speaking countries have named their daughters Maria. She is indeed regarded as being the ultimate mother figure because, thanks to her holiness, piety, and humbleness, she is an example of godliness, strength, and maternal instinct.

Thousands of pilgrims and tourists coming from the city of Catania, its surroundings and other places around the globe swarm into the small alleys of this lively fishermen’s neighborhood to see this amazing festival blending faith, good Sicilian food and folklore. Many of them attend to fulfill the vows (exvoto) they have made to the venerated Madonna for granting a wish or bringing themselves or their beloved relatives and friends safely through an accident or an illness.

Tradition holds that on March 26, 1933, a violent sea storm threatened the gulf of Ognina in Catania. Part of the pier and some boats were damaged. The houses overlooking the coast were lapped against by the waves. Chronicles of the time estimated that the waves were over 40 feet tall. Therefore, in order to avert the danger local fishermen turned to the Virgin Mary for help. They placed the statue of the Madonna on the church’s square, after moving it from the altar of the Ognina Sanctuary.

Hours later, the sea calmed down; a miracle.

This is one of the extraordinary events that strengthened the devotion of the Ognina fishermen toward the Virgin Mary.

Today, they still pray to her in times illness or help in getting out of a difficult situation.

As the past, today’s fishermen still exchange a special greeting among each other, as a tribute to both Jesus and the Virgin Mary. As two boats cross during night fishing, a crew leader says “Virgin Mary!” and the other replies “Jesus.” Then, they exchange information on the outcome of the fishing.

The fishermen’s strong devotion brought them to celebrate a yearly festival to honor the Virgin Mary. The origin of the festival dates back to the 19th century. The financial support to organize the festival was initially given by the residents of the area. Money was collected and put into a pottery moneybox, named “Caruseddi.” The moneyboxes were later broken during a short ceremony held on the Friday preceding the actual festival celebrated on Sept. 8.

Recently, it was decided that each fisherman, instead of giving a donation would allocate half of his own weekly income, named the “menza parti” to support the organization of the festival.

Originally, a statue depicting the Virgin Mary was brought in procession on a wooden carriage through the few practicable streets of Ognina district. Then, on Sept. 12, 1889, a fire occurred after the festival as the devotees left the candles lit on the wooden carriage to honor the Madonna. The wax melted and set the both the carriage and the painting on fire. Thus, a new statue was needed to replace the damaged one. While this new statue was being carved in Paris, a wax sculpture depicting the child Virgin Mary (named “bammina” which in Italian

"Virgin Mary" continued on Page 14

The statue of the Virgin Mary of Ognina is carried shoulder-high in procession throughout the streets of the Ognina fishermen’s neighborhood in Catania during the traditional annual religious festival running from Sept. 1 through 10 and featuring religious processions both at sea and through the streets of the neighborhood, fireworks, a mouthwatering bluefish festival and food booths. (Photo by Ognina Parish Press Office)

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Leadership Engagement Key to FY18 GMT and Civilian Mandatory Training From Naval Education and Training Command Public Affairs

PENSACOLA, Fla. (Feb. 6, 2017) "Global Training on the Go" is an information graphic created to provide information about the General Military Training (GMT) applications available to Sailors for download.

The applications shown are records management (RM), domestic violence (DV), operational risk management (ORM), personally identifiable information (PII) and operational security (OPSEC). (U.S. Navy graphic by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Brittany N. Tobin/Released)

PENSACOLA, Fla. (NNS) -- The Navy announced fiscal year 2018 General Military Training (GMT) requirements and guidance for Navy civilian mandatory training via Naval Administrative Message (NAVADMIN) 210/17, released Aug. 28.

The direction emphasizes training as leader engagement opportunities, along with flexibility to fit training in where it makes sense. To the greatest extent possible, commanders should use interactive leader-led discussions for both military and civilian training, whether at quarters, all-hands calls, or divisional and command training. This approach is intended to enable a powerful and personal focus on integrity, accountability and character.

Military GMT resources for 10 mandatory, as well as optional, training topics are available on My Navy Portal (MNP) at https://my.navy.mil. Printable materials include outlines that may be used to help encourage discussion for both military and civilians. It is not the intent for commands to create new lesson plans to support GMT. The GMT webpage also lists the mandatory training topics that can be conducted in combined military-civilian sessions, if desired.

Department of the Navy (DON) Office of Civilian

Human Resources (OCHR) maintains the official list of mandatory training for Navy civilians and supervisors of Navy civilians, both military and civilian, at https://portal.secnav.navy.mil/orgs/MRA/DONHR/Training/Pages/ Mandatory-Training.aspx.

Some mandatory topics do have specific requirements for completion, which are stated on the GMT webpage and OCHR Portal. For example, Cyber Awareness Challenge training is computer-based only.

For the GMT page, log onto MNP, select the "Professional Resources" drop down menu, then "General Skills Training," and then "GMT" from the navigation menu on the left. While commands will find a notional schedule, commands are responsible for assigning and completing GMT and should develop a schedule based on their unique requirements.

Commanders are also responsible for certification of training completion. Logging the completion of military GMT training is not required in Fleet Training Management and Planning System or Total Workforce Management Services. However, commands are encouraged to keep local records.

For more on Naval Education and Training Command, visit www.netc.navy.mil.

For more news from Naval Education and Training Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnet/.

SECNAV’s Letter to the Force: Department of the Navy’s Mission, Vision and Priorities On Aug. 29, 2017, Secretary of the Navy Richard V. Spencer released a memorandum that outlined the Department of the Navy mission, vision and priorities.

The memo’s text is below.

Sailors, Marines and Civilian Teammates, As I stated in my confirmation hearing, I have discussed priorities that must be at the forefront of every action. Our mission, vision and priorities for the Department of the Navy are listed below.

I call upon you to make every effort count and to align your goals with our priorities. I look forward to making progress alongside you in these areas.

Mission: The Department of the Navy will recruit, train, equip and organize to deliver combat ready Naval forces to win conflicts and wars while maintaining security and deterrence through sustained forward presence.

Vision: We are an integrated Naval force that will provide maritime dominance for the Nation.

To accomplish this in the face of current and emerging challenges, we must renew our sense of urgency and speed of execution throughout the entire organization. Our core values and accountability at the individual and organizational levels will shape our culture and guide our actions.

Priorities: Our priorities center on People, Capabilities and Processes, and will be achieved by our focus on speed, value, results and partnerships. Readiness, lethality and modernization are the requirements driving these priorities.

People: Our military and civilian workforce is our greatest resource.

We will enhance the performance of our force by improving policies, programs and training.

Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Richard V. Spencer delivers remarks at an all-hands call with Sailors at Naval Station Mayport. Spencer is in the area to meet with Sailors and hear their feedback for the future of the Navy. U.S. Navy photo

by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Armando Gonzales (Released)

The organization will capitalize on its best talent today, retain that talent over the long term, and find ways to continue to recruit the best people for the mission of the future.

Our military and civilian team will be measured against the highest ethical standards for every task and mission.

Capabilities: We will be capable of providing maritime dominance and power projection required by the Nation.

The organization will focus on training, moderniza-

tion and maintenance in order to achieve a high state of readiness and enhanced lethality, now and in the future.

Processes: We must improve our processes in order for our people to meet future challenges.

We will drive efficiency, adopt and implement new ideas, and leverage leading practices from industry and academia to positively impact and support acquisition, manpower, research, and operational processes.

Our actions across these priorities will ensure mission success today and in the future.

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erona and the On a recent three-day weekend I went to the Lombardy region of Italy to visit the city of Verona, Lake Iseo, and Lake Garda. The trip was easy with a direct flight from Catania to Verona’s airport.

We made the decision to rent a car because we planned on leaving the city to drive west towards the large lakes in this northern region of Italy. When we arrived on Friday morning we decided to head directly to the town of Sirmione on Lake Garda.

Sirmione is a town that is on a peninsula that juts out into Lake Garda. You can visit the beautifully preserved Scaliger castle that sits right at the entrance to the town, and at the opposite end you can see the ruins of the Grotto of Catullus which is a large Roman villa with excellent views of the lake. We stopped here for lunch, and wandered the town with the other tourists taking advantage of the good weather.

By Lt. Andria NAS Sigonella Pub

The following day w away from Verona to L to hike a small island in te Isola. We parked in on the shore of the lake Pescheria Maraglio. Th a small and beautiful, a vehicles and farming on the island so there all. There are hiking tr on the island and we s

SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

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e Northern Lakes

ana Genualdi blic Affairs Officer

we drove about an hour Lake Iseo. We wanted n the lake called Monn the town of Sulzano e and took the ferry to The towns on the island and only two-wheeled vehicles are allowed e is no traffic noise at rails and maps posted set out for the town at

the very top of the island called Cure. There is also a church at the tip of the mountain called Santuario della Madonna della Ceriola, this church commands stunning views of the surrounding lake and mountains.

Each evening when we returned to Verona we had a chance to explore. We visited Juilette’s House, of Romeo and Juilette fame, and we went to the Arena of Verona and Castelvecchio. The arena is still used for operas and they were actually loading set pieces for Aida using cranes, it was very interesting to see a sphinx dangling above an old Italian city. We didn’t end up having time to go inside Castelvecchio on our last morning in the city, but we were able to enter the courtyard and get some great views from the old bridge that leads into the castle.

All in all this short summer trip to northern Italy was a lovely break from the heat of Sicily.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin: NEX DEPOT COMBINING WITH NAS II MINI MART

BOOTS TO BUSINESS (B2B)

Organization: Navy Exchange Sigonella Point of Contact Email Address: nex.sigonella-depot@nexweb.org Additional information: The Navy Exchange Sigonella is combining the Depot within our NAS II Mini Mart. This will be a rolling change over the next few months. We now have our current assortment of Depot products at the NAS 2 Mini Mart ready for purchase.

As we move forward, we will increase our customer service through a single point of contact for command purchase orders as well as an electronic ordering form.

The single point of contact will be via email at nex.sigonella-depot@nexweb.org.

For command purchases or inquiries, simply email the Depot at the address above, and our associate will respond within the same day with availability and pricing. For items no longer carried, or for bulk purchase quantities, we will have them available through special order from our Naples warehouse, available within 7 days or less. For a copy of the electronic order form for all office supplies and command needs, please email the Depot directly and a form will be sent to you.

Date of Event: 7-8 September 0800-1600 Location of Event: NAS 1 Fleet and Family Services Bldg. 319 Point of Contact Name: Tiffany Butler Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4291 Point of Contact Email Address: Tiffany.a.butler@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: Veterans have the motivation, character, discipline and skills needed to succeed as small business owners and entrepreneurs. Are you a transitioning Service member thinking about business ownership as a post-service vocation?

Wondering what it takes and what you can do now to prepare?

Enrolling in Boots to Business, the entrepreneurship career track of the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is one step you can take now.

To register for this class call The Fleet and Family Support Center at DSN 624-4291, COMM 095-56-4291.

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel

NAS 1

Mondays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900 Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900-1100 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 AWANA: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: . . . .

0600-0700 Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): . . . . . 1600-1800 Thursdays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: . . . . . . . . 1200-1530 Choir Practice: . . . . . . . . 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): . . . . . . . . 1800-2030 Fridays Daily Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . 1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: .

1700-1830 Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200

Weekly Traffic Report: Aug. 21 - Aug. 28, 2017

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

NAS 2

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

Ristorante Bella Etna

As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.

SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

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First Sigonella Back-to-School Bash

The Health Promotion team talks with students and parents about wellness and nutrition during the Back-to-School Bash at NAS 1. (U.S. Navy Photo by Lt. Andriana Genualdi/ Released)

By Lt. Andriana Genualdi NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Officer

On a typical sunny Sicilian day at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella 17 local organizations, businesses, and clubs gathered for the “Back-to-School Bash” in the bus loop by the Sigonella Middle-High School to reach out to the community. Groups ranging from the Parent Teacher Student Organization to Housing Department set up tents and made themselves available to roughly 600 parents and students for four hours for questions and to hand out important information.

The big event of the day was first day orientation for the middle-high school and teacher class announcements for the elementary school. Parents and students alike wanted to meet their new teachers. Additionally, the first day orientation was going on for the older students.

The “Back-to-School Bash” is a new deve-

lopment in the Sigonella community. Last year the first day orientation for the school was much smaller and less comprehensive. John Sisson, the NEX general manager, brought the concept from Naples where he used to work, and with help from Sigonella’ s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation department made it come to life. This gathering gives families the opportunity to see what services the base offers for children.

“This is the one stop shop to show the community what there is here at Sigonella for kids,” said Chris McKibbin, the school liaison officer. McKibbin also played a large role in the organization and success of the event.

Families were able to come out and take care of a range of tasks all in one convenient place. Parents picked up bus passes and signed children up for clubs and sports.

The Sigonella community is looking forward to a safe and successful school year.

SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

GAMEZONE GARLIC GOAT CHEESE GOUDA GREEN OLIVES GROUND BEEF HAM JALAPENOS MONTEREY JACK MOZZARELLA MUSHROOMS OLIVE OIL ONIONS

OYSTERS PARMESAN PEPPERONI PROVOLONE RICOTTA SALAMI SAUSAGE SHRIMP SPINACH TOMATO SAUCE TOMATOES ZUCCHINI

MEDIUM

ARTICHOKE HEARTS ASIAGO ASPARAGUS BACON BANANA PEPPERS BASIL BELL PEPPERS BLACK OLIVES BROCCOLI CRUST EGGPLANT FETA

EASY

Find and circle all of the pizza ingredients and toppings that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell four additional pizza toppings.

DIFFICULT

Pizza

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"Virgin Mary" continued from Page 6 means female child) was temporary displayed in the sanctuary. The new statue, carved by a French monk, was put back its place in 1889.

The Sanctuary that hosts the precious statue was built in 1392, although historic chronicles state that the named “Santa Maria di Lognina” was already paying tributes to the Vatican in 1308.

In a 16th century document a local notary named Merlino, wrote that the church had miraculously survived the “Terremoto magnus” (the big earthquake) that destroyed the local area in 1542. Merlino also wrote that after the earthquake a group of prisoners were temporary locked up in the church since the prison was destroyed.

In 1676, historian Giovanni Andrea Massa, wrote that pilgrims from all over the world came to the Ognina Sanctuary to thank the Virgin Mary for the graces (healing or other miracles) she had granted them.

After a terrible earthquake in 1693, the church was rebuilt in a new location facing north.

The church consists of three naves. In the 17th century, Giacomo Vignerio, a Raphael student, painted its interior.

On Sunday, Sept. 3, fishermen will host a bluefish festival (Sagra del Pesce Azzurro) featuring freshly grilled fish to festivalgoers in piazza Ognina.

On Friday, Sept 8, at 8 a.m., the festival opens with the “Svelata,” the unveiling of the statue depicting the Virgin Mary. The statue is lighted and placed next to the tabernacles to symbolize the union with her son Jesus. Holy masses will be celebrated at 10 a.m., 12 and 7 p.m. At 7 p.m., after a firework show, a holy mass will be celebrated before the church’s portico. A music show will end the celebration at 9:00 p.m.

On Saturday, Sept. 9 at 4:15 p.m. holy mass will be celebrated and will be followed by the breathtaking “Processione della Madonna a mare,” the fascinating procession of the Virgin Mary at sea that will begin around 6 p.m. The statue is placed on a boat and brought in procession around the gulf of Ognina. In the evening a city band concert will be held in the pier area and later a 10:30 p.m. a spectacular fireworks show will end the evening’s celebrations.

In the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 10 at 5:30 p.m., the statue depicting the Virgin Mary will be brought in procession through the streets of the Ognina district. A spectacular firework show will be held at midnight.

The port of Ognina is located in Catania and it easy to reach. From the Catania Train Station take Viale Africa. Once you get to Piazza Europa turn right and drive for about a mile along the Lungomare seafront. You will then reach a little port right before the overpass that leads toward Acicastello. The church is located under the road.

For more information and detailed festival schedules visit www.santamariadiognina.it

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"ICE" continued from Page 3

Comment regarding “Galley Fruit Bar”:

The fruit bar continues to serve extremely expired and rotten fruits, for example, like it happened again on the morning of 17 July, 2017 where there were very few limited options, but most of the oranges, for example, are rotten. I just don't understand how hard it is to serve items that are edible and get rid of the rotten items, which are not only unsafe to eat and attract insects. The salad bar often has similar issues, where the lettuce is turning brown from age, but continues to be served. Again, this cannot be healthy.

I have mentioned this issue to the Marines on the chow line before, but it seems this is an ongoing issue.

Sincerely, CWO3 Jurkiewicz

Response:

First and foremost I appreciate your comments and concerns. Secondly, did you approach any of the staff members with your concern on the spot?

While the FSO suggestion box and I.C.E. system are here for comments, questions and concerns please be advised that we cannot fix immediate issues through this form of feedback. I recommend to always request to speak to the FSO, Leading CS, Manager or Watch Captain on duty to address your immediate concerns. In doing so, we can fix the issues instantly.

Addressing your concern directly, the salad bar is changed daily as per the NAVSUP P-486 and the Tri-Service Food code. Additionally, the quality of the galley food is inspected monthly by the Army Vet and Hospital Preventative Medicine teams and found to always be in a sanitary and safe condition for consumption. Our staff inspects the fruit daily before it is set out for customers, but there are times when we cannot tell if the inside is bad or going bad as we have received it from the vendor. In this instance, it is possible for the staff to overlook or not see the internal condition of the fruit. However, when it is noticed, the salad items and/or fruit will always be thrown out and replaced. Furthermore, as far as the quality of food is concerned and as a secondary set of eyes, the NASSIG CDO is tasked by the Commanding Officer to sample all meals daily to include breakfast, lunch and dinner. This process helps galley staff to address concerns and suggestions in order for the galley to provide the best service and quality of food to our patrons. I hope this answers your inquiry and should you have additional questions or comments, I encourage you to direct them to the Food Service Officer, CWO3 Marigundon. He can be reached at 624-5739 (+39-095-56-5739) or via email at francisco.marigundon@eu.navy.mil.

Comment regarding “BZ for Commissary Employee”:

I would like to give a Bravo Zulu to Enzo Catalano from the DECA. I was looking for a certain formula that I needed for WIC and it was not on the shelf. He told me that there would be a truck on Friday and he would look for the formula I needed. He then called me back and told me it wasn't on the truck, but he will continue to look to see if they might have had some hidden. The next morning I was on my way to go buy some, he then called me and said he found a case for me. I want to personally thank Enzo for all of his time and effort for finding the formula I needed.

Response:

I would like to thank you for taking your time comment on Mr. Enzo Catalano's excellent service you received at the Sigonella Commissary. This is the quality of customer service we strive to provide to all our customers and it is especially rewarding when feedback from our valued patrons confirms our efforts are successful. Mr. Catalano and I would like to thank you again and appreciate your compliments and recognition.

SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

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NAS Sigonella’s All Officers’ Spouses’ Club; Who We are and What We Do

By All Officers' Spouses' Club (AOSC) Board Members: Melissa Grady, Ashley Terpstra and LaTressa Myles

All Officers' Spouses' Club (AOSC) is a non-profit charitable, and social organization focused on community service and welcoming and fostering friendships and hospitality among our members. We participate in charitable and cultural projects for the Armed Forces and Sigonella community. AOSC is an excellent way to meet new people while giving back to the Sigonella Community.

We are proud to say that our organization's primary charitable program is providing college scholarships for high school seniors graduating from the local DODEA high school. Last year three high school seniors were awarded scholarships totaling $1000, and we are hoping to significantly increase the amount awarded in 2018 through various fundraising events and with the help of our wonderful community. All DODEA high school students are eligible to apply.

This year we also plan to initiate and participate in several different service projects. Some include donating books to the base library, providing multiple home cooked meals for our unaccompanied service members, partnering with the USO when new families arrive; by providing snacks, and some beautification projects around our three bases.

For our 2017-2018 year, we will be organizing social events including family-friendly olive and orange picking outings out in the beautiful country sides of Sicily, fun themed Bunco nights, playgroups for those with little ones, dinners out on the town, and some Holiday themed gatherings.

The annual welcome event will be a welcome tea in which Capt. Brent Trickel and Marla Trickel graciously opened their home to our organization for this event. Their home is located on NAS 1; 101 Hillis Drive. The event will be held on Sept. 8 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Light snacks and drinks will be provided.

Membership is $45 per year and $10 of which goes directly into the scholarship fund. AOSC is open to Spouses of Active Duty Officers of the United States Armed Forces.

Active Duty Officers of the United States Armed Forces, Retired Officers of the United States Armed Forces and their spouses. NATO Spouses of Officer Equivalence, DODDS Teachers and Administrators and their spouses, Civilian Personnel (GS-7 and above) and their Spouses.

If you are interested in sitting a board position or volunteering, please contact the current board at aoscsigonella@ gmail.com. Currently, there is a secretary position open to regular members and several chair and volunteer positions open to all.

Please be sure to visit our booth at Autumn Fest where we will have beautiful ornaments created by the Sigonella community. 100% of the proceeds from these purchases go directly to the scholarship fund.

AOSC's 2017-2018 members of the board are; Melissa Grady, AOSC President, Ashley Terpstra, Vice President, and LaTressa Myles, Treasurer. We are so excited to hit the ground running this year. Giving back to the ones that sacrifice so much seems only natural, and we are so honored and beyond excited to be a part of that.

AOSC is a private organization and has no affiliation with the Department of Defense (DOD) nor any of its components; AOSC has no governmental status.

Silent Facility Alarms

By Melissa McCarthy Emergency Dispatch Center

Silent alarms are located in various facilities and rooms on Sigonella. If you are unsure about whether or not your facility and or room inside your facility is equipped with a silent alarm contact the security representative for your unit.

In a facility equipped with a silent alarm require personnel to be on a access roster and have a PIN code to enter. The alarm will not sound in your facility but will notify at the Emergency Dispatch Center (EDC). Once an alarm has been set off and sent to the EDC they are required to send security units to check the facility. Security will respond according to their instructions to find out the status of the alarm.

All Pavilion exit doors on the flight line are also alarmed doors, although no audible alarm will sound, the EDC receives an alarm and will send Security to investigate. These doors are only meant to be used in the event a person and or item cannot exit through a turnstile safely.

If these doors must be temporarily propped open for items being unloaded, a person must be posted at the door to keep access to the flight line secure and you must contact the EDC prior to opening the door.

To avoid having security respond when you are utilizing one of these alarmed doors, you are required to contact the EDC (095-86-5225) to minimize the number of unnecessary calls that Security personnel must respond to by following these simple steps.

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SEPTEMBER 1, 2017