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A walk in the clouds
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January 27, 2017
Vol. 34 No. 3
Mattis Takes Oath as 26th Defense Secretary By jim garamone DoD News, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON (NNS) – By a 98-1 vote, the Senate confirmed retired Marine Corps Gen. James Mattis to be the 26th secretary of defense Jan. 20, and Vice President Michael R. Pence administered his oath of office shortly afterward.R. Pence administered his oath of office shortly afterward. Mattis is the first retired general officer to hold the position since General of the Army George C. Marshall in the early 1950s. Congress passed a waiver for the retired four-star general to serve in the position, because law requires former service members to have been out of uniform for at least seven years to serve as defense secretary. Mattis retired from the Marine Corps in 2013. Three-War Veteran Mattis is a veteran of the Gulf War and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. His military career culminated with service as commander of U.S. Central Command. The secretary was born in Washington State and raised in Richland, Washington, graduating from high school there in 1968 and enlisting in the Marine Corps the following year. He was commissioned in the Marine Corps in 1972 after graduating from Central Washington University. He served as a rifle and weapons platoon commander, and as a lieutenant colonel, he commanded the 1st Battalion, 7th Marines in Operation Desert Storm. In Afghanistan, he commanded some of the first troops to go into the country. In the Iraq war, he commanded the 1st Marine Division in the drive to Baghdad in 2003.
He was instrumental in publishing the Army and Marine Corps counterinsurgency manual when he served at Marine Corps Developmental Command in Quantico, Virginia. He then commanded the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force before being chosen for four-star rank as the commander of U.S. Joint Forces Command and NA-
TO's Allied Command Transformation in 2007. He was named Centcom commander 2010. Study of War Mattis is a student of the study of war. Former Defense Secretary William S. Cohen called Mattis "a man of thought as well as action," when he introduced him at the Senate Armed Ser-
vices Committee confirmation hearing last week. The world is awash in change, Mattis told the committee. "Our country is still at war in Afghanistan, and our troops are fighting against [the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant] and other terrorist groups in the Middle East and elsewhere," he said. "Russia is raising grave concerns on several fronts, and China is shredding trust along its periphery." The "islands of stability" in the world are under attack by nonstate actors and rogue nations, Mattis said. "Our armed forces in this world must remain the best-led, the best-equipped and the most lethal in the world," he added. He told the committee that he will be "the strongest possible advocate for military and civilian personnel and their families" and that he will "foster an atmosphere of harmony and trust at the department with our interagency partners and the congressional committees." Alliances Important The secretary told the committee that alliances and collaborations with other countries are a necessity in this changing world. "History is clear," he said. "Nations with strong allies thrive, and those without them wither." Mattis said his priority as defense secretary will be to strengthen military readiness, strengthen U.S. alliances and bring business reforms to the Defense Department. "Our military is the envy of the world, representing America's awesome determination to defend herself," he said. "Working with you, I will endeavor to keep our unique all volunteer force second to none."
NAS Sigonella Galley Shares Best Practices with NAVSTA Rota By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – In order to fill a gapped Food Service Officer (FSO) billet at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain, the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Galley staff were requested by Region to provide personnel support. When CSCS Chico Garcia arrived in Rota, he noted that despite the large Galley facilities, there were very few customers. With a view to increase patronage of the Rota Galley, NAS Sigonella Leading CS, Senior Chief Garcia decided to implement some of the best business practices from the Ristorante Bella Etna. Accordingly, the salad bar capacity was expanded, the fruit options were increased
and brought to the front, the speed line was opened featuring a rotating menu of entrees, and additional features, such as grilled burgers to order, were introduced. “By making just a few changes, we have been able to increase galley patronage, and consequently equity. When I first arrived in Rota, the equity was around $2,000.00. In just one month we have increased the galley’s equity to almost $13,000.00,” noted Garcia. The increase in funds will allow Rota to further improve menu options and to host additional special meals. In addition to the greater revenue, Garcia, with assistance from the NASSIG FSO has also accomplished a full revision of the galley menu to include specialty bars, enhanced the salad bar offerings, initiated facility improvements, and implemented the Go for Green
(G4G) program. Additionally, during Garcia’s term, the Rota galley experienced an immediate resurgence of its ration in kind (RIK) personnel, which is essential to the mission of the galley program. Garcia will be relieved by Sigonella's FSO, CWO3 Jon Marigundon, in February for a 30-day TDY during which time Marigundon aims to increase the percentage of RIK personnel to 80%. “The bottom line is: our local business strategy can be implemented with great success at other installations in the Region, specifically, in this case, Rota. We are glad to support the NAVSTA Rota Galley and are happy to see these enhancements to the galley’s offerings which provide an even greater dining experience for service members,” said Marigundon.
In order to fill a gapped Food Service Officer (FSO) billet at Naval Station (NAVSTA) Rota, Spain, the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Galley staff were requested by Region to provide personnel support. The team has accomplished a full revision of the galley menu to include specialty bars, enhanced the salad bar offering, and implemented the Go for Green (G4G) program. (Photo courtesy of Galley)
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January 27, 2017
Direct Line
Executive Officer Commander Charles G. McKinney II Buon giorno, Sigonella! The “Winds of Change” are upon us. They always are. And while not of great concern, especially considering how far we have come as humans in recent years, it is notable how much they have blown during my naval career and my brief tour at NAS Sigonella. Yes, on the surface it may be a new year, but it is also the beginning of the 18th year of this new century (and millennium). Not one of us wearing the uniform is living in the same world we were born into. The young officer pictured here to the right was living in a pre-9/11 world; a world where you could meet someone at the airport arrival gate. Economies were stable. The world hadn’t been consumed by the internet. “Y2K” was not a thing. There was relative peace. Things changed. The world did not end – the young officer adapted. He changed. I am better as a result. Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher, is quoted as saying "change is the only constant in life." All too true for any one of us, transitioning between multiple duty stations with but a few years to become established in a new location before uprooting and moving on. Change is something we expect, so we embrace it. This year and the next few years will see all manner of changes, on several levels – Global, National and Community, for example. World crises are evolving, bringing greater dangers and unknown futures. Governments are evolving. Our own just installed a new Commander-In-Chief, and many changes have already been directed in the first week
of his administration. Many of you have been provided new U.S. Navy training on the new Transgender Service Member Policy which introduces the formal guidance. Our Sigonella community will live through the effects of reduced installation utilities due to funding, greater demand for resources, higher populations and a changing landscape as several large construction projects, like building new flight line hangars and installing water main upgrades, get underway. Change is sometimes concerning, but change is great. If not for change we would not be challenged, nor would we develop, learn, produce, evolve… Get better. Having the stimulus of change present, pushes us to sharpen ourselves. No matter what changes affect you in the coming months and years during your tour in Sicily, certain things will not change (any time soon): 1. You are part of, or supporting the most advanced, capable and lethal military force the world has ever seen. 2. Our fundamental strategic mission of national defense will not change as long as we are in existence. 3. Each and every one of you is needed, succeeding in your assigned duties, to accomplish this mission. I am extremely grateful to be serving today alongside the best Shipmates (including civilians) I have ever known. The work we do here together is inspiring, and is making a difference! Thank you for your service.
Safety Tips During Flood Season Before a Flood •Avoid building in a floodplain. •Construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering your home. •Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage. •If a flood is likely in your area, listen to the radio or television for information. •Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. A watch means flooding is possible. A warning means flooding is occurring or will occur soon. When a Flood is Imminent •Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Include needed medications. •If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately. •If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. •If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor. •Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. During a Flood •Do not walk through moving water. As little as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of moving water can make you fall. •If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you. •Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. •Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. After a Flood •Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink. •Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. •Avoid moving water. •Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. •Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company. •Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. •Stay out of buildings surrounded by floodwaters. •Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards. •Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals. For more information please call the safety office at 624-5630 or 624-6261
January 27, 2017
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Name: Machinist's Mate 2nd Class Raul Sierra Dept: Safety Hometown: Houston, Texas In 2015 over a two-day period, distracted drivers killed 10 pedestrians. This month alone, three car accidents occurred on just one icy morning. Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Raul Sierra’s job is to help lower those numbers by providing educational drivers classes three days a week through the Safety office. If you’ve driven on or off NAS 1 or NAS 2 since March 2015 you’ve probably met Sierra. His class provides all the information you need to safely drive on the local roads while subtly mixing in a little bit of light-hearted humor to what could be a very boring and dull PowerPoint presentation. “I really like it,” said Sierra. “It’s
cool being able to meet different people from all over and they get to know who I am, from the lowest enlisted ranks to Navy captains.” As an integral part of the Safety office, Sierra also has a voice to help implement real change around base. “I saw a kid run onto the road in NAS 1 and almost get run over. I presented a plan to the Safety director, took pictures of proposed cross walks and a couple months later my project went through. It was rewarding to see a plan of mine become reality.” Along with teaching the driver’s course, Sierra also facilitates, coordinates and teaches the Basic and Advanced Rider courses for those interested in riding motorcycles. “Riding motorcycles is one of my favorite hobbies so it’s great to be able to teach the courses for new or experienced riders and share my
knowledge,” said Sierra. Other than riding, Sierra is a huge fan of Muay Thai and similar grappling sports, and even organizes a Facebook page “NAS Sigonella Grappling” where he and likeminded people from all skill levels get together and practice grappling. The days he’s not in the gym grappling, he’s on the field playing soccer for a local base-sponsored team. He also helps coach youth soccer. “I’m a busy guy. I do all these things but I also have a family,” said Sierra. “So when I’m not at work I try to spend most of my time with – what I call – my tribe.” His favorite part about living in Sicily is the ability to travel all over Europe for relatively cheap. “My advice is this: travel as much as you can. I just recently went to Paris for a round-trip cost of €60. In the States those tickets are $1,500!”
U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Michelle Sabangan Michelle.Sabangan@eu.navy.mil MC3 Bryan Tomforde Bryan.Tomforde@navy.mil YN2 Gabrielle Milly gabrielle.milly@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@ eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or handdelivered 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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January 27, 2017
Boots 2 Business and Career Technical Training Track Workshops From Fleet and Family Support Center
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Did you know that 2.45 million veterans own their own business? Veterans are natural entrepreneurs. They are disciplined, goal-oriented and self-starters. Accustomed to accountability, they know the value of being decisive and flexible. Over the next few years more than 250,000 service members will transition into civilian life annually. With the jobless rate persistently high, and unemployment among veterans outpacing the national average, training in entrepreneurship makes sense. Leveraging the talents of transitioning service members will promote self-employment and will help stimulate the economy. Boots 2 Business (B2B) is an additional track to
Transition Goals, Plan, Success (TGPS). It is a twoday course taught by entrepreneurial leaders within the small business community. The class will focus on business fundamentals and concepts. Upon completion you will be able to register for a FREE eight-week class on how to start your own business. Additional seats are available for spouses as well! B2B will be at the Fleet and Family Support Center on Feb. 2-3. If you prefer a more “hands-on” approach, then we have just the workshop for you! Our Career Technical Training Track (CT3) Workshop will be held on Feb. 23-24. This workshop is for you if you seek job-ready skills, industry-recognized credentials and prefer short-term training programs. Service members pursuing career technical training will receive
guidance and help in selecting technical training schools and technical fields, will be able to prepare and complete an application to an accredited career technical training institution, learn how to schedule a session with a counselor from a career technical training institution, meet individually with career technical training experts and VA vocational education counselors, as applicable, and receive assistance in identifying required credentials and training options. If available, participants should bring their individual transition plan, military service transcripts, O*Net self-assessment/MOC Crosswalk results and personal budget to the workshop. To learn more about these two additional tracks or to register, please contact the Fleet and Family Support Center at 624-4291.
Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624-CARE (2273) or commercial: 095-56-2273, M - F: 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the Weekend, Holidays, or after office hours, please call the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (local/Italy only) Need a medication refill or results from your Provider? Create an account with Relay Health using your PCM... www.relayhealth.com (click: register, patient, then add PCM)
January 27, 2017
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ISR Airmen Bring Cheer to Children in Italy By staff sgt. jeffrey schultze 9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs
BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – Members of two of Beale’s geographically separated units – the 7th Reconnaissance Squadron (7th RS) and the 324th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron located at Naval Air Station Sigonella in Italy – recently took the time to raise money and put on a holiday event for a local foster home. The event raised over 1,100 euro for the Istituto Pio IX foster home and provided the 20 children living there with new entertainment devices, as well as delivering some holiday cheer. “The Istituto Pio IX is run by nuns and is home to children who have been taken away from their parents by the courts due to various issues such as neglect, abuse, lack of financial resources, or illegal activity,” according to Staff Sgt. LaToya Marshall, 7th RS supply technician and event coordinator. With the help of a dozen volunteers the children had a holiday party thrown in their honor, and will now enjoy new televisions, computer tablets, and DVD players for entertainment and
studying. “It is a heartbreaking situation so I was honored to coordinate this wonderful event and give the children a little bit of happiness for Christmas,” said Marshall. In addition to the children and foster home being helped, it offered a way to say thank you to the people of Sicily for welcoming service members into their community, Airmen were able to show that they are grateful guests in the country. The feeling was mutual as the foster home made their appreciation for the Sigonella volunteers known. “We received nothing but gratitude and thanks for the beautiful evening from Istituto Pio IX, and they were appreciative for us taking time out of our schedules to put on the event,” said Marshall. The event was such a success this first year that the two units are looking for this to be an annual project going forward. “It was very heartwarming to see them laugh and forget about their family situations for an evening, which was the ultimate reward,” said Marshall.
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January 27, 2017
Saint Agatha Festival: A Heartfelt Celebration of Catania's Patron Saint Story by alberto lunetta
After a year of preparation, Catania townspeople are ready to celebrate “La Festa di Sant’Agata” (Saint Agatha Festival) the most important religious festival in Eastern Sicily with three days of massive festival processions and events that will take place from Feb. 3-5 in the historic heart of Catania. "Semu divoti tutti? Cettu, Cettu, Citatini, viva Sant'Aita!" (Are we all devotees? Yes, of course, sure, townspeople, long live St. Agata)!" Devotees will scream those passionate words over and over during the processions until their voices are hoarse, publicly showing their devotion to the beloved patroness. Those celebrations, which mingle the sacred and profane, will involve thousands of Catanians who will swarm the streets of the historic center to pay homage to the "Santuzza," or young saint (St. Agata's nickname given because of her young age). “Divoti” (devotees) defy bad weather conditions – it’s often very cold during the festival – just to see her while she's brought in procession. It happens only once a year, so it is a must-see event. According to an ancient tradition, Saint Agata is considered a “salvatrice” (saviour), which means that she rescued Catania several times over the centuries, especially during earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Legend has it that her holy purple-colored veil (named "limpia" in Sicilian) has stopped two dangerous eruptions, the first which occurred in 251 AD, a year after her martyrdom, and the second in 1886, when lava threatened Nicolosi. In both cases, the veil was brought in procession to the eruption site and the advancing lava flow miraculously stopped. According to history, Catania cardinal Giuseppe Benedetto Dusmet, who is regarded as a saint and whose body is preserved inside the cathedral, led the 19th century procession. The holy veil is 13 feet long by 20 inches wide. Three golden threads decorate its extremities. According to legend, the veil, which was originally white, covered the head of Saint Agata when she was rolled over live coals during her martyrdom. Even through the torture the "limpia" remained miraculously undamaged by the fire and turned red. From then on, the veil has been venerated as a defense against Etna's eruptions. Tradition and Devotion Catanians have been celebrating this festival since 1519. For centuries, there has been a long-running controversy between Catania and Palermo over where she was born. But it looks like Catania got the better of Palermo. Every year, a stream of thousands of devotees of all ages will crowd the streets of the historic center dressed in white tunics (green for the women) named in Sicilian "saccu," gloves, a handkerchief, and black skullcap (in Sicilian "a scuzzitta"). According to legend, the “saccu” symbolizes the nightdress that the Catanians wore when they welcomed the return from Turkey of the Saint's relics. Historic chronicles tell that it was a great feast for the Catania community whose residents waived white handkerchiefs to show their enthusiasm. Some other legends say “saccu” was a penitential garment worn by Egyptian priests. The truth, as explained by reliable historic accounts, is that “saccu” was a penitential habit. The white tunic symbolizes the devotee’s purity of life and the black skullcap dates back to the tradition of wearing ashes on the forehead as a sign of penance. Giorgio Maniace, a Byzantine general, stole the relics as a war trophy and took them to Constantinople (the ancient Istanbul) in 1040. Devotees take part in the festival carrying in procession the "Cannalori," and the "Vara." “Cannalori” are tall wax candles surrounded by a heavy (up to 1,500 pounds) candelabrum-shaped gilded wooden structure. They are decorated with statues depicting angels, saints, pennons and flowers. Scenes from the Saint Agata martyrdom are also carved into their sides. Each Cannalora represent a city's guild: butchers, greengrocers, fishmongers, pasta makers, bakers and more. In the past, they illuminated the passage of the procession. But through the centuries their dimensions became so large that one person alone could not carry their weight. Today, there are 11 “Cannalori” that take part in the procession. Each one is carried on the shoulders of eight to 12 people. During the processions, “Cannalori” stop every once in a while and "compete" with one another by performing a kind of dance named "Annacata" consisting of a series of swaying moves. The "Vara" is a 16-foot long richly decorated silver float on which the bust depicting Saint Agata and several crystal and silver caskets containing her relics (legs, arms and other bones) are carried in procession. Giovanni di Bartolo, a goldsmith from Siena, made the bust in the 14th century. The bust, which also contains part of the relics (the skull and part of the thorax), is made of enameled silver. It lies on a magnificent pedestal, and it's cut just under the waist. Hundreds of precious jewels cover the statue. Most of them come from donations by devotees. The magnificent golden gem-studded crown donated by English King Richard "The Lionhearted" in 1190 during his visit to Sicily on his way to a crusade is undoubtedly the best piece of the collection.
"FESTIVAL" continued on Page 15
Saint Agata’s Festival, the third largest Catholic celebration in the world, returns to Catania featuring a spectacular three-day display of faith and colorful Sicilian folklore beginning Feb. 3. Thousands of devotees and tourists will swarm the streets of the historic center to honor their beloved patroness saint, take part in the hours-long processions, eat the traditional food and also enjoy the amazing fireworks. (PHOTO BY TURI CALAFATO)
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USFF Announces Approval of Improved Flame Resistant Variant (IFRV) Coverall From U.S. Fleet Forces Public Affairs NORFOLK (NNS) -- Commander, U.S. Fleet Forces (USFF) announced the authorization of the Improved Flame Resistant Variant (IFRV) coverall as an approved fleet organizational clothing item Jan. 19 via ALFLTFORCOM/ALPACFLT 191900Z JAN 17. The approval came after a review of the results from recently completed afloat wear tests conducted aboard three deploying ships and involving more than 700 Sailors. The IFRV coveralls are intended to replace the Flame Resistant Variant (FRV) coveralls currently in use throughout the fleet. "The IFRV was designed not only with the safety of our Sailors in mind, but also comfort and durability," said Adm. Phil Davidson, commander, USFF. "We will always make safety a priority, but if we can also improve quality of life for our Sailors in doing so, then everyone wins." The original FRVs were introduced in response to widespread reports in which Sailors afloat were at risk because most of their required uniforms were not flame resistant. Given the potential safety concerns, USFF endeavored to develop and distribute the FRV as quickly as possible. In early 2015, recognizing the significant dissatisfaction with the original FRV, USFF partnered with Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) and the Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility (NCTRF) to develop an improved version which is more comfortable, durable, and as safe or safer than the original. The result was an IFRV coverall made from a flame resistant, tri-fiber blend. It weighs significantly less than the current FRV fabrics and provides improved moisture management by allowing the fiber to breathe more efficiently. This IFRV coverall also offers arc flash protection, a notable upgrade in safety from the current FRV.
The IFRV coverall is also designed to last nearly twice as long as the FRV. "Shipboard wearability and functionality was of extreme importance with the development of the IFRV," said Davidson. "We weren't going to introduce something new without thorough testing afloat to ensure it meets the needs of our Sailors and was indeed an improvement over the original FRV." USFF conducted coverall wear tests aboard three ships, amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3), guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64), and fast-attack submarine USS Newport News (SSN 750) during their recent deployments. Both a flight suit and traditional version were tested, with surveys taken both midand post-deployment. The results were overwhelmingly positive for the IFRV and favorable toward the traditional version of the coverall. In summary, 89 percent of respondents thought the IFRV looked better than the FRV; 86 percent thought it was more durable; 91 percent said it was more comfortable; and 85 percent thought it was cooler in hot climates. Overall, 91 percent of Sailors involved in the test thought the IFRV traditional coverall was an improvement over the FRV and 68 percent thought the same for the flight suit version. A datadriven decision was made to select the traditional coverall as the replacement for the FRV. Like any other organizational clothing item, Sailors can expect to have their current FRV replaced by the ship over time at no additional cost to them. USFF is teaming up with NEXCOM and Defense Logistics Agency to introduce the IFRV coveralls to the fleet. The Navy's transition from the FRV to the IFRV coveralls is expected to take place after October. Additional guidance on a finalized roll-out plan, along with instructions on manner and occasion of wear, will be provided at a later date.
Focus groups held during IFRV testing and the post-test surveys also revealed a desire among Sailors for a two-piece FR variant which can be worn at sea, in port, and off base to reduce the number of daily clothing changes. This data and feedback is informing a collaborative effort with NCTRF to prototype a more professional and modern two-piece variant with layering options to allow for de-blousing for certain evolutions and in hotter environments. Under layers may include flame resistant and drifire-style moisture wicking jerseys. The goal is to explore a two-piece variant
that is sufficiently versatile to address the requirements of all afloat communities. To ensure Sailor feedback is incorporated to the maximum extent possible, these concepts and associated design features are being reviewed by focus groups in fleet concentration areas this month. For more information, visit http:// www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/ usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from U.S. Fleet Forces Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/clf/ or http://www.public.navy.mil/usff/ Pages/default.aspx/.
Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael Fiorillo, assigned to U.S. Fleet Forces Command, poses in the Improved Fire Retardant Variant (IFRV) coverall onboard Naval Station Norfolk. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stacy M. Atkins Ricks/Released)
SUBASE New London Opens Navy's First NOFFS Zone By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Erin Hamilton Naval Submarine Base New London Public Affairs GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- A ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the Navy's first Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling System (NOFFS) Zone at Morton Hall Gymnasium on Naval Submarine Base New London (SUBASE), Jan 12. The NOFFS Zone project at Morton Hall cost $165,000 and includes an indoor turf area, battle ropes, tire flipping, weight lifting, box jumping, and other movement based activities. Originally designed for Sailors to continually be physically active while not having access to a fitness facility or equipment, NOFFS has been undergoing a rebranding since 2014, and aims to instruct Sailors how to physically train effectively and safely, and make healthy nutritional choices in both shore and operational environments. "NOFFS mimics the same type of motions done on the waterfront like pushing, pulling, and lifting," said Capt. Paul Whitescarver, commanding officer of SUBASE. "We want to prevent injuries in the future, and it's pretty awesome for SUBASE New London to open the first NOFFS Zone." Additional pilot NOFFS Zones opening in the future include, Naval Base Kitsap - Bangor, Naval Base Ventura County, Naval Station Norfolk, and Naval Air Station Pensacola. "The equipment will be the same, but the look may not be," said Tunde Ridley, Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) section head of Navy Fitness and a world-class track athlete. "When you walk into a NOFFS Zone, you'll know. There are specific areas for pillar prep, movement prep, strength/workout and regeneration. The original NOFFS Operational program released in 2009 provided Sailors with resistance bands that could easily be taken out to sea, or at home, requiring minimal space. "Many people associate NOFFS with a bag of rubber bands, but we wanted to give people another look at what NOFFS really is, an entire system including the facility, nutrition and cell phone application where you can still have the virtual trainer if an MWR Fitness trainer
isn't available in person," said Ridley. "The program focuses on resiliency and eliminating musculoskeletal injuries, and provides a program to where Sailors or anyone who wanted to use it didn't have to think about it. We eliminate the guesswork." Ridley also noted that a tactical athlete needs more than a program with a set start and end, and needs a continuum of exercise programming. NOFFS MWR Fitness Professionals are certified to provide custom programming to meet the needs of patrons, units or groups. This custom programming covers the full continuum of exercise goals including corrective exercise all the way to maximum power programming. "A lot of people are excited about giving these old MWR fitness facilities the opportunities to rebrand and resell what NOFFS is," said Ridley. "We are hoping that the NOFFS Zone will strengthen the working relationship between units, commands, and MWR fitness professionals as we are here to assist and train." Ridley also said there are four different NOFFS series available, Operational, Strength, Endurance and Sandbag, combined with the cell-phone application, makes NOFFS easily portable to train with from home, deployed, or in a fitness facility. "I'm proud that SUBASE New London is the first to open a NOFFS Zone," said Whitescarver. "The visibility of the new NOFFS Zone is going to be great for the waterfront and everyone else on the base." MWR trainers at Morton Hall will be hosting classes seven times a week, and the NOFFS Zone is available for individual and command use. For more information, please call MWR at (860) 694-2298. The NOFFS application is available for both Android and iOS, and can be found at www. navyfitness.org For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Naval Submarine Base New London, visit www.navy.mil/local/ subasenlon/.
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Enna:
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Walking on Clouds story and photos BY MC2 Michelle sabangan NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
If you’re looking for a town with a view, put Enna on your list. About an hour’s drive from base, this small town in the hilly heart of Sicily is definitely worth the winding drive to the top. The town is Italy’s highest regional capital, towering nearly 1,000 meters above sea level. It’s known as “belvedere” for its beautiful view of Dittaino valley and also ‘l’ ombelico’ or ‘naval’ for its position in the Sicily’s center.
While there, you can visit Castello di Lombardia, which is free and open to the public. The castle was once a military stronghold with 20 towers. Today only six are still standing. If you go during the summer, you might even be able to catch a medieval play in the courtyard. After strolling through the castle grounds and taking in the view from the castle, you can stop by the small archaeological museum nearby. There’s also the Alessi Museum, which is located close to the Duomo. It has some more local artifacts. Right now it’s closed for restoration so if museums are your
thing, I’d check ahead before driving all the way to the top. For fans of architecture, there’s the Torre di Federico, a 24-meter high tower in the shape of an octagon located in the town garden. If you’re looking for a festival and fireworks, try going on July 2 for the festival for Enna’s patron saint, Maria Santissime della Visitazione. Enna is a nice little town towering above Sicily’s countryside. When I went there, the view reminded me a little of Erice, minus the four hour drive. If you’re looking for somewhere nearby to go for a day trip, give Enna a try.
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All Hands News Bulletin: ID CARDS REQUIRED FOR ALL CHILDREN 10 AND OLDER Command, Department or Organization: NASSIG SECURITY Additional Information: We would like to remind parents that all children 10 and older are required to have a Dependent Government Identification Card in accordance with BUPERS Instruction 1750-10C. As such, children 10 and older are required to have their I.D. card any time they access the installation including when riding the school bus (in addition to their bus pass) and when walking or riding in a Privately Owned Vehicle (POV) with a sponsor. Please refer to instruction: http://www.public.navy.mil/bupersnpc/ reference/instructions/BUPERSInstructions/Documents/1750.10C. pdf (page 63, Table 4.3) for details. 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
EVERYDAY HEROES NOMINATIONS Command, Department or Organization: American Red Cross Date of Event: Today - Feb 13 Location of Event: Red Cross Office Bldg. 318 2nd Floor Point of Contact Name: American Red Cross Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4900 Point of Contact Email Address: Sigonella@RedCross.Org Additional Information: Naval Air Station Sigonella has many "Everyday Heroes" who lend a hand to those in need whether in our local community or in our host nation community. Do you know someone who should be recognized? This year we would like to recognize those individuals who have provided exceptional service in three categories: Service to the Military, Families, or Host Nation. Submit by Feb 13 at https://volunteerconnection. redcross.org/?nd=vms_public_form&form_id=890.
Weekly Traffic Report: Jan. 16-23, 2017
Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: 1100-1200 Sundays Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): 1045-1200 Protestant Service: 1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: 1330-1600
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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
Ristorante Bella Etna
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
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Non-Combatant Evacuation Operation: Are You Ready? By ht2 corbin cooney Emergency Management
Imagine yourself in a catastrophic situation where you had to go to your home to gather only bare essentials, leaving possessions that you hold dear behind you, get on a truck that would drive you to an airport, then board a plane destined for a safe haven in another country. Sounds like something out of a movie, right? Well, it’s similar to what happens during a NEO or Non-Combatant Evacuation Operation. A NEO can be ordered by the Department of State in response to a natural disaster, terrorist activity, war or civil unrest in a foreign country, with Families settle into their seats aboard a Boeing C-17A Globemaster III the order being carried out with aircraft for evacuation from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay (NSGB) ahead of support from the Department of Hurricane Matthew. (U.S. Army photo by Capt. Frederick H. Agee/Released) Defense (DoD). Depending on the situation, evacuation can be voluntary or man- as long as you have room and it is not a burden, as datory and can include different levels of personnel you should expect to hold these items for a long pesuch as military and accompanying family mem- riod of time. If you own a pet, be aware that you are bers, DoD employees, federal contractors or private responsible for registering your pets with the base American citizens in the area (including pets!), and veterinarian and maintaining an Animal NEO kit, also select host nation or third country nationals. which should include: Upon notification before, during or after a situ• Airline approved kennel of appropriate size for ation, officials of the Department of State will as- each pet sess the occurring situation and determine the se• Absorbent “puppy pads” & plastic disposable verity of the situation, who is affected, who can be bags evacuated and the best or most reasonable means of • Leash with a harness or collar transportation available to evacuate personnel: this • Pet I.D. (keep spares) and paperwork to incan be by land, sea or air. A safe haven for evacuees clude vaccination records could be set-up in the immediate area surrounding • Food and water an installation or at one of the DoD installations The NEO of NAS Sigonella personnel will be colocated throughout Europe. If officials determine ordinated through the U.S. Embassy in Rome with CONUS is the best location available for evacua- mass notifications promptly following the order. tion, personnel should expect 30 days of stay time Official notifications will be passed from the EOC while the situation is further assessed; in extreme utilizing: the AtHoc system (Desktop notifications, situations this could also include repatriation to Giant Voice, Telephone notifications); Facebook; all the continental United States. Being stationed at hands e-mail; AFN television and AFN radio-105.9 an OCONUS DoD installation, Sigonella citizens The Eagle. These notifications will inform Sigonella MUST keep in mind that this is a real operation and of where to assemble and which of the three phases could be ordered if a situation occurs warranting an are in place: NEO. • Phase I (Ready)- Family members stand-by at BE PREPARED! You should already have a home emergency supplies kit ready to go at home, but a • Phase II (Set)- Family members prepare to NEO kit should be a separate, small, ready to go kit evacuate of bare essentials that you can grab and go in under • Phase III (Go)- Proceed to assembly points five minutes. If you are accompanied, your family with NEO kit; from assembly point personnel will should be aware of NEO instructions, where your be shuttled to a processing or departure point NEO kit is located, and be prepared to move withThe processing point is where you will show the out their sponsor. A NEO kit should contain origi- documents from your NEO kit or Animal NEO kit, nals or copies of: to officials standing by. Personnel and their pets • Identification such as passports, military/de- will receive a wristband before exiting the processpendent I.D. or driver’s license ing point that will be scanned upon departure and • Emergency Pay Form DD-1337 or DD-2461 again at arrival to the safe haven to ensure 100% ac• Power of Attorney/Family Care Plan countability. • Shot Records Each command on board NAS Sigonella is re• Sojourner’s Permit (non-military) quired to have a NEO representative that can sup• Household Goods (HHG) Inventory ply personnel with information or the NASSIG • POV title/registration & Insurance policy NEO instruction--NASSIGINST 4310.1F. If you • Important documents such as marriage or are not sure who your NEO representative is, ask birth certificates, wills, insurance policies your chain-of-command. It is the responsibility • Family Communication Plan of ALL HANDS to keep and maintain a NEO kit, As previously stated, these items need to be in a ensure NEO representative has an up-to-date resmall carrier such as a backpack that you can keep call number and housing information and AtHoc with you and will not be a burden to carry. Also, if notification information is up-to-date. If you have you or family members have a regularly prescribed any questions regarding NEO or Emergency Premedication ensure that you have an adequate supply paredness, feel free to contact your Community on hand. Along with the above items, you can pack Preparedness Coordinator-HT2 Cooney at corbin. toiletries, a First Aid Kit and a change of clothes, cooney@eu.navy.mil or 624-8283.
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January 27, 2017
GAMEZONE Fantasy World
PEDDLER POISON PRINCE QUEST SERVANT SPEARS SPRITE STEW TOWER WARLOCK WEAPONS WINE WITCH
MEDIUM
GIANTS GNOMES GOLD GUARDS HERO HORSE INN LANCE MACE MAGIC MINSTREL MOAT OGRE PEASANT
EASY
ALE BATTLE CASTLE CENTAUR CHALICE CROSSBOW CROWN DAGGER DRAWBRIDGE DUNGEON ELVES FARM FOREST
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining 17 letters spell the name of a popular fantasy book series.
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"FESTIVAL" continued from Page 6 One who attends the festival remains impressed by the huge candles that devotees carry on their shoulders while they perform the processions. Every year, Catania wax shops sell hundreds of “ceri” (tall wax candles). Devotees carry these bulky candles “per grazia ricevuta,” which means that a saint has granted them a miracle they have been asking for. The miracle could be invoked for a pregnancy that is in serious danger or if someone is suffering from an incurable disease or after one has survived a traffic accident. Usually, it is up to the devotee to decide how heavy the candle should be and for how long they would carry it. According to Catania wax dealers, the most requested candle is the one that weighs approximately 85 pounds. But some also request candles that can weigh up to 350 pounds. Carrying “ceri” in procession is usually a lifelong practice. If one devotee is too old or sick to carry a heavy candle, another person such as a son or a relative could continue to participate in the procession instead of them. Life of Sant'Agata According to tradition, Agata came from a rich family. Her virtues and her beauty drew the attention of Quintianus, a local Roman governor who actively and brutally persecuted Christians. Agata, who had already consecrated herself to God, refused his advances. Therefore, Quintianus decided to punish her by having her locked up in a brothel where Aphrodisia, a wicked woman, tried to corrupt Agata's virtue and faith. But Agata never wavered and resisted all her at-
tempts. Therefore, Quintianus, maddened by Agata's firmness, ordered her to undergo terrible torture by cutting off her breast. This detail is often depicted in Christian medieval paintings as a peculiar characteristic of Saint Agata. Tradition also tells about prodigious events that occurred while Agata was in prison such as the apparition of St. Peter who comforted and healed all her wounds. Eventually, after repeated tortures, Quintianus had Agata condemned to the stake. But while she was burning alive a violent earthquake struck Catania. This natural disaster was welcomed by the Catanians as a sign of God wanting the tortures inflicted on Agata to be over. Thus, a riot broke out in the city forcing Quintianus to stop the infamous execution. Agata was then brought back to her prison where she died shortly after. It was Feb. 5, 251 AD. Later that same day, the evil Quintianus, who was fleeing because he feared a riot, drowned in the river Simeto. Festival Schedule On Feb. 3, the celebration begins with a holy mass at the Cathedral at 7 a.m. Later at noon, the solemn "Processione per l'offerta della cera" (Offering of the wax procession) leaves from the Church of St. Agata “Alla Fornace” toward the Cathedral. Eleven Cannalori representing some local guilds lead the procession. Parades of the city's banners followed by the historic "Carrozzi du Sinatu" (18th century Catania Senate Carriages that are permanently on view at the city hall in Piazza Duomo) also follow the procession. All Catania civilian and military authorities take part in the procession. A half-hour later, Catania Fire Brigade officials offer a floral gift to the Saint. A religious hymn will be performed at the cathedral. The celebration day will end in the evening with a spectacular fireworks show in Piazza Duomo called "I fochi do tri" or the fireworks performed on the evening of Feb. 3. Feb. 4 begins with the traditional "Messa dell'Aurora" (Dawn Holy Mass) at 6 a.m. at the Cathedral. It is among one of the most intense moments of the festival. The "Cammaredda," the small room located inside the Cathedral where the relics and the Saint Agata simulacrum are permanently kept, is opened before a crowd of moved and applauding devotes. Later there's a procession where the Saint Agata bust and relics are paraded throughout the city. It leaves from Porta Uzeda (in Italian, Uzeda gate) in piazza Duomo where the Catania Archbishop performs the offering of a candle before the icon of the Madonna della Lettera. Right after, the procession proceeds through via Dusmet, via Calì, piazza Cutelli, via Vittorio Emanuele, piazza dei Martiri, via VI Aprile, piazza Giovanni XXIII (train station), viale della Libertà, piazza Iolanda, via Umberto, via Grotte Bianche, piazza Carlo Alberto (Catania outdoor market) and then piazza Stesicoro where the devotees pulling the carriage show off their skills by performing the challenging "Capuccini slope." It consists of running while dragging the heavy float up to the Church of Saint Agata "La Vetere," located
in piazza San Domenico. There the procession stops for a couple of hours to allow devotees to rest. In the late afternoon at 6 p.m., the tour starts again from piazza San Domenico through via Plebiscito, via Vittorio Emanuele, piazza Risorgimento, piazza Palestro, via Garibaldi, via Plebiscito, via Dusmet and eventually back again to piazza Duomo through Porta Uzeda. On Feb. 5, a solemn holy mass is celebrated at the Cathedral at 10:15 a.m. Cardinal Agostino Vallini presides over the holy mass jointly with local priests and Sicily's highestranking bishops. During the mass, the "Cappella Musicale del Duomo" (the Cathedral Cantata Choir) sings a magnificent High Mass. In the afternoon, the bishop of Messina celebrates a holy mass at 4:30 p.m. at the Cathedral. Later, the most spectacular Saint Agata procession starts from Piazza Duomo at 5:30 p.m. Crossing via Etnea it moves ahead up to Piazza Cavour. The procession, which continues all night long, reaches its climax when it arrives at the slope of via San Giuliano on its way back to Piazza Duomo in the morning on Feb. 6. Running fast, devotees pull the Saint’s float up to via San Giuliano. It is a spectacular and dangerous proof of physical strength and resistance that could only be performed by the strongest devotees as the Vara weighs several tons. Driven by pure devotion, thousands of people stay up until dawn to participate in this unique moment. At the end of the hard climb, the crowd releases the tension with a liberating thunderous applause. Eventually, the saint is brought back to the Cathedral. In conjunction with the festival, the traditional "Fiera di Sant'Agata" or Saint Agatha’s Fair, featuring booths selling clothes, shoes, toys and foodstuffs, will be set up in the city center. A free-of-charge art exhibition dedicated to Saint Agata will be on display at the Palazzo della Cultura palace, located at # 121 via Vittorio Emanuele, through Feb. 12. For more information and festival details, call the Catania Tourist Information Office at 095-742-5573. Traditional Sweets During the St. Agatha festival you can also satisfy your sweet tooth. Make sure you visit the Catania “pasticcerie” (pastry shops) or “panifici” (bakeries). You’ll get a chance to sample the delicious "Olivette di Sant’Agata"(Saint'Agata's small olives) and “torrone” (nougat), which are two traditional marzipan and almond-based St.Agata-related sweets, as well as the mouthwatering “Cassatine” (small breast-shaped cassate pastries which remind us of the torture undergone by St. Agata) filled with ricotta cheese, covered by a sugar glaze, with a candied cherry on top. “Olivette” (Olive-shaped and green marzipan sweets) are related to a legend telling an episode of the saint's life. Tradition has it that when Agata was on her way to stand trial before Quintianus, she bent to tie her sandal. As she did that, an olive tree miraculously sprouted where she had stepped. After St. Agata's death, these olives were preserved as relics. “Olivette” are also available in a chocolate covered version.
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