SIGNATURE THE
SIGONELLA, SICILY
July 11, 2014
Vol. 31 No. 27
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
NAS Sigonella celebrates 4th of July By MC3 Cameron Bramham NAS Sigonella Public Affairs NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Sigonella hosted their annual Red, White, and BOOM (RWB) Independence Day celebration at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s Midtown Complex, July 4. During the celebration, NAS Sigonella service and community members participated in a full day of activates ranging from a cardboard boat race at Splashers Pool to a corn-hole tournament with prizes, all leading up to a fireworks display which capped off the day’s events. MWR Sigonella staff and volunteers for RWB worked for the past few months making sure the event came together for the NAS Sigonella community. “We started planning back in March for this event, so after months of planning, it’s really exciting to see it all come together and people having fun.” MWR Sigonella Community Activities Director Marijo Gaudette said. “There’s definitely a lot of challenges along the way but I’m really proud of everyone for making this possible. There’s a lot of people behind the scenes that worked with us throughout the planning stages so a big shout out for them.” The day began with Firecracker 4K Color Run at Marinai Housing Complex before the MWR Sigonella staff shifted their focus to NAS I where the rest of the events would take place. Splashers Pool opened their doors from 12 – 4 p.m. for the Stars, Stripes, and Splashes Pool Party before the John Paul Jones Cardboard Boat Race began. During the boat race children from NAS Sigonella could paddled and raced their own boats made out of the nothing but cardboard and duct-tape from one-side of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella service and community members watch fireworks during Morale, Welfare, and pool to the other. Prizes were given to the race winners. Recreation (MWR) Sigonella’s annual Red, White & BOOM celebration, July 4 at NAS I. The event included a pool “I think it’s great, we had kids out here working together during party, cardboard boat race, corn hole tournament, hot dog eating contest, live music, food and beverage vendors, and see "4th of July" page 8 a fireworks display. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)
WWII vet returns to Sicily after 71 years BY LT PAUL NEWELL NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Just two words were what inspired a 96-year-old former Army Air Corps Staff Sergeant to return to Sicily after 71 years. It had been that long since he detached his station in Malta with 14 other Soldiers from the 26th Air Depot Group for their two-week stint in a melon patch a dozen miles outside the Southeastern city of Pachino. Then just a 24-year-old staff sergeant in Sicily to repair a downed B-24D Liberator in June and July of 1943, today Herb Tollefson sits and recounts how he and the other accompanying mechanics spent long days clearing field, then atop that clearing how they built a makeshift runway of timber while proudly using every bit of innovation they could to fix the bomber and get her back into the fight. “Back then a B-24 cost the country $269,000. Not much today, but a lot of money back then. Every airplane that the U.S. Air Corps had was necessary for the war effort,” he recalled. But Tollefson’s recollection and the reason he returned here had as much to do with the Sicilian locals who came to their aid as the men he worked beside
and the orders they executed. The mission they would successfully accomplish had to be done, but it was the kindness of the Sicilians on foreign soil occupied by Nazis in the midst of history’s deadliest war that inspired Tollefson and his son, Steve, to return. Neither the near three-quarters of a century that had passed, nor marriage, kids, his job, additional demands, nor age were ever able to water down Tollefson’s yearning to return and express the “thank yous” that had been pent up for 71 years. So on July 1, the near Centenarian landed at Catania International, aided this go-round not with wrench and rifle, but with a wheel chair, canes, and the devoted care of his son, so that he could retrace his journey back in time. In their hearts the Tollefsons hoped that word of Herb’s return might cause some of the locals to remember Tollefson's group and the grounded B-24, later dubbed "The Melon Patch Special," they would repair. Maybe somebody, then just a young child or early teen, might recall the crew. But even if those gathered were not yet born in 1943, or were simply too young to remember Former Army Air Corps Staff Sergeant, Herb Tollefson greets media members during a the bomber that fell out of the sky, and ceremony in Pachino, Sicily, July 1. The ceremony came 71 years after Tollefson's plane crashed see "WWII Vet" page 14 in a small field outside the city. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Paul Newell/Released)
Around Sigonella:
More from Red, White & BOOM!
American Red Cross Sigonella
NAS Sighonella service members participate in Sicilian COMRELS
Check out more photos from this year's celebration of Independence Day
See what they're doing to help expectant parents
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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella
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U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM David Graham
EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor M. Todd Butler michael.butler@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC3 Cameron Bramham cameron.bramham@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish anyanonymous 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.
cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
Direct Line
July 11, 2014
THE SIGNATURE
Sigonella service members clean Greek temple
Command Master Chief David Graham Buongirono Sigonella, Well the time has come for my family and me to depart the pattern. It is bitter sweet in many ways. I have had the opportunity to work with some very fine professionals as well as being blessed to gain some long lasting friendships. If you would indulge me, I would like my last article to be a portrait of who I am and what I wanted to impart on Sigonella. I had three basic goals when I arrived in Sigonella. They were simple but profound and like most, I have to constantly remind myself of the importance of each of these. With any goal, you have to understand where you start from. I chose to start with an empty canvas and let it paint itself. What caught my attention first was that Sigonella is such a diverse community. There is nothing that we can’t get done here. Just take a look at our community pages if you need proof. Real communities look past differences and capitalize on the collective input. The first goal was to ensure that everyone had a voice and understood that nothing was too insignificant to be heard. Now I understand that communication will always be a work in progress but that does not give any of us the excuse not to do our part. The one thing that I have learned is that everyone is a contributor in some form or fashion. We all have to look
inward first and determine if our contribution will be positive or negative. The second was to make family important. Now that seems common or expected but it is those routine things that we take for granted. As many of you have heard me express during Indoc or just in casual conversation. You must make an effort to put someone’s importance above your own. Once you do that and make it a point to understand someone else’s point of view, a whole spectrum of unity opens up. You all have become part of my family whether you wanted to or not. Sigonella is proof of the amazing accomplishments we can do together. This community is everything that we hope for and more. I have had many conversations with members that have long since transferred and the message is always the same. They all missed the closeness. No family or community is perfect but as long as you are committed to each other then everything else just works itself out. The last goal was to be as transparent as possible. Sometimes you will open
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Early MWR facility closures tonight on NAS I NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Due to a scheduled power outage on NAS I tonight, Connections and Sparetime Bowling will close at 10:30 p.m. For those worried about an early closure for Midtown 2 Theaters, the same-day showing of Dawn of the Planet of the Apes in 3D will end before the power outage is scheduled to take place. For more information, please call DSN 624-0513.
Teen Resiliency Retreat in August
yourself up to criticism or unfounded judgment but the positives greatly outweigh the negatives. The product of this goal was that it allowed me to gain the trust of the community in several ways to which am very appreciative and humbled. In closing, thank you all from the bottom of my heart. It has been and honor and pleasure to be a part of the Sigonella community. Always remember that it takes fewer muscles to smile and the outcome is always much better. Fair Winds and Following Seas
DRIVE SAFELY SIGONELLA
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July 11, 2014
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - CREDO and Club Beyond are partnering to offer a new retreat just for teens! The Teen Resiliency Retreat will run from Aug. 1 - 3, and is for middle and high school students. This retreat is free and includes transportation, hotel costs, and all meals. Military teens can encounter plenty of challenges and adversity, and this retreat is an invaluable resource to learn how to deal with those issues in a positive way in an environment free from the pressures and distractions of everyday life. The Teen Resiliency Retreat will assist teens in strengthening their resiliency skills by employing a combination of instruction, group and private discussions, exercises, free time and fun activities. This retreat will be located off base at a local hotel, and sign-ups are taken on a first come, first served basis. Active duty dependents will have priority, but all middle and high school students are welcome! To sign-up or get more information about the great opportunities that the Teen Resiliency Retreat offers, please contact either the NAS Sigonella Chapel at DSN 624-3802 / 3975 or the Club Beyond Sigonella Community Director, Michael King
Missoula Children’s Theater coming to Sigonella in one month
Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Africa 14.1 Marines joined Sailors from Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella’s security department for a joint community relations (COMREL) at the Himera Greek Temple of Victory located in Termini Imerese near Palermo, June 28. The project was organized to help the local Parco Archeologico leadership (the state body in charge of the site’s maintenance) protect the ruins of the 5th century BC temple. The area was covered by dried vegetation and weeds which posed a serious fire hazard to the Sicilian treasure. (Official Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. James Stenger/Released)
Marines support Catania children's center
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Mark your calendars Sigonella; Missoula Children’s Theater performers are coming back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella from Aug. 11 – 15. The performers will be holding free and open auditions for NAS Sigonella children ages 6 – 18 for parts in their depiction of Hansel and Gretel. Auditions will last throughout the week until the performance on Aug. 15. In the past, Missoula Children’s theater has performed many productions at NAS Sigonella including King Arthur’s Quest, Robin Hood, Blackbeard the Pirate, The Tortoise vs. the Hare, and The Princess and the Pea. For more information on Missoula Children’s Theater check out their web site, www.mctinc.org or contact School Liaison Officer, Chris McKibbin at DSN 624-3242.
NAS Sigonella Petty Officer First Classes clean outside NAS I gate
Religious Ministries Department notice Effective Sunday, July 13, worship times will shift to the following schedule -- Roman Catholic at 9 a.m.; Traditional Protestant Worship at 11 a.m. (with Protestant Sunday School at 10 a.m.). There will be no change to the Saturday Evening Contemporary Service time.
NASSIG WORSHIP SERVICES ROMAN CATHOLIC Sunday ■ 8:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (NAS I Chapel) TUESDAY - FRIDAY ■ 11:30 a.m. Catholic Mass (NAS II Chapel) Sacraments of Reconciliation/Penance precede each Mass PROTESTANT NAS I Chapel Saturday ■ 6:30 p.m. Contemporary Worship Services Sunday ■ 10:30 a.m. Traditional Worship NAS II Chapel SUNDAY ■ 5 p.m. Protestant Evening Service
OTHER SERVICES/ACTIVITIES LATTER-DAY SAINTS SUNDAY at 1:30 p.m. (NAS I Chapel) Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 624-9049 JEWISH SHABBAT LAY SERVICE FRIDAY at 5:30 p.m. (NAS I Chapel) NIGHT STUDY WEDNESDAY at 5 p.m. (NAS I Chapel) ■ Italian Class Tuesday at 7 p.m (Classroom at NAS 1 Chapel)
■ AA Meetings: MONDAY at 5:30 p.m. (NAS I Chapel) second deck; THURSDAY at 7 p.m. (NAS II Chapel) NAS Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/NavalAirStationSigonella Chapel
Chapel Offices: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, DSN: 624-3975, CHAPLAIN DUTY: 335-831-4493 RP DUTY: 335-786-1950
Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Africa 14.1 Marines spent part of their 4th of July volunteering for a community relations (COMREL) project at the “Talità Kum” disadvantaged-youth center in the Librino neighborhood of Catania. The COMREL project focused on landscaping around the center as well as cleaning the interior of the complex. The children and Catania Chairman for Environment Rosario D’Agata thanked the American volunteers for the support. (Official Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. James Stenger/Released)
Electrician’s Technician 1st Class Nathan Dehmler of the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella First Class Petty Officer Association (FCPOA) took part in a base beautification and clean-up project with other members of the NAS Sigonella FCPOA outside the main gate on NAS I, June 27. During the project NAS Sigonella petty officer first classes trimmed grass along the outside of the gate and picked up trash and recyclables around the gate. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cameron Bramham/Released)
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July 11, 2014
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
JULY
11
14
ICR 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. FFSC
15
Tuesday
ICR 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. FFSC
16
SAPR Command Liaison Training 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. FFSC
Wednesday
ICR 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. FFSC
17
SAPR Command Liaison Training 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. FFSC
Thursday
Survive & Thrive 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. FFSC SAPR Command Liaison Training 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. FFSC
Arrivederci Class 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. FFSC Granita & Brioche Class 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. MWR Classroom
2014
Monday
Friday
18
Relocation Fair 1:30 p.m. - 3 p.m. FFSC
Caleca Pottery in Patti 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. ITT
12
Saturday
Circumetnea Historical Train Adventure 6:45 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ITT Kayak Tour: Giardini Naxos & Taormina 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Outdoor Rec
19
Catania Shopping Trip 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ITT Mt. Bike Ride in Floristella Park & Agriturismo Lunch 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
13
Sunday Agrigento: Valley of the Temples & Bagliesi Winery Wine Tasting 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. ITT
Marzamemi Boat Tour by Night 4 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Outdoor Rec
20
Chiaramonte Gulfi: Olive Oil Tasting and Agriturismo Lunch 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. ITT
July 11, 2014
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Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box There are two ways to submit feed back to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis. Visit The 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. Also, visit NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on " CO Suggestion Box". The Signature will anonymously publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Please make sure your comments and suggestions are constructive. In other words, "BE NICE ON ICE."
Capt. Dennis responds to your suggestions Concern regarding the Sure Start Program:
I was completing my Sure Start application and came across the page where children are separated into different priority groups because of rank. Why are my child's educational opportunities based on my rank?
Response:
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Youth Wrestling Camp 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Kid's Climb 4 - 6 p.m. NAS I Fit District
22
Retirment Planning and Investment Strategies 9 - 11 a.m. FFSC Giardini Naxos: Hiking, Granita, & the Beach 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Youth Complex
23
Dive in Movie 9 p.m. NAS II Flight Line Pool
24
Borgo Antico Dinner & Caltagirone Candle Lighting 4 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. ITT
25
Arrivederci Class 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. FFSC
Empty Wallet Lunch 11 a.m. Take 5 Caltagirone Candle Lighting 6 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. ITT
IMPORTANT EXTENSIONS:
26
Marzamemi Boat Tour 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Outdoor Rec
27
World War II Museum Tour: PART 2 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ITT 1/2 price Bowling 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sparetime Bowling *Every Sunday
FFSC: x4291 ITT : x4777, x4396 Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396 Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248 American Red Cross: x4900
Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!
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 335-578-8077 if you are normally seen at the hospital or 335-578-8150 if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.
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The Sure Start program is governed by DoDEA regulations, and is structured after the Head Start program in the US that targets economically disadvantaged children. The recruitment process involves systematically seeking out children who are "at risk" for failure in school and life. These kids are given priority in the selection process in an effort to level the playing field. Because of differences across pay-grades, the established eligibility criteria does necessarily consider rank as a factor. There are additional criteria applied if there are more children interested in enrolling than we have room. Currently we have two (2) Sure Start classrooms with a maximum enrollment of 18 students in each class. Here is current eligibility criteria: Sure Start's first responsibility is to the 4-year-old child (the child who turns 4 by September 1 of the enrolling school year of a military or eligible Department of Defense employee whose rank is Enlisted (E) E1 to E4; General Schedule (GS)/National Security Personnel System (**NSPS, pay band 1, rank equivalent) GS1 to GS4; or Non Appropriated Fund (NAF), NAF 1 to NAF 2, *rank equivalent at the date of application. Eligibility for Sure Start programs does not extend to students who are non-DoD sponsored or to children who are geographically in a non-DoDDS site. It is important to note that only the sponsor's rank is used to determine eligibility-not family income, unless it is used to determine rank equivalents for NAF Levels 1-4 or **NSPS, pay band 1, rank equivalent GS1- GS9. Any sponsor whose rank is E5 to E9, GS5 to GS9 (NSPS, pay band 1, rank equivalent) or NAF 3-4, rank equivalent who wishes to apply for the program is eligible to do so with the understanding that first priority is given to those children whose sponsor is in the E1 to E4, GS1 to GS4 (NSPS, pay band 1, rank equivalent), or NAF 1 to NAF 2, rank equivalent range. This otherwise firm rule has one exception: children of all ranks may be eligible if referred for consideration by Family Advocacy, the Chaplain's Office, or other family support agencies documenting an unusual circumstance or an extraordinary hardship. This referral would, however, still need to be submitted to the Advisory Committee for a placement decision. If the first priority range has been exhausted and the enrollment remains below 18, then students of sponsors through E9, GS9(NSPS, pay band 1, rank equivalent), or NAF 3-4, rank equivalent may be considered following the priority chart. Note, though, that to comply with the Office of the Secretary of Defense's intent for the program, the majority of the students must be from the first priority.
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THE SIGNATURE
July 11, 2014
Saint Rosalia Festival in Palermo ITALIAN HEADLINES
Italian police solve mafia killing of US detective in 1909 (The Guardian) - Italian Police arrested last week 91 in raids on suspected Cosa Nostra after alleged mobster claims great-uncle murdered NY officer Joe Petrosino. Police believe they have solved one of the most notorious murders in the history of organized crime, more than a century after it was committed. On 12 March 1909 Giuseppe "Joe" Petrosino, a celebrated New York detective who had gone to Sicily to gather intelligence on the mafia, was shot dead in the centre of Palermo. The identity of his killer remained a mystery. But in a conversation recorded by revenue guards in an operation that on Monday morning led to a wave of arrests in the Sicilian capital, an alleged Cosa Nostra capo, Domenico Palazzotto, told other alleged mafiosi that his great-uncle had been Petrosino's killer. "My father's uncle was called Paolo Palazzotto. He carried out the murder of the first policeman to be killed in Palermo. It was he who killed Joe Petrosino, on behalf of Cascio-Ferro," the 29 year-old suspected mobster was quoted as saying in evidence submitted to the judge who authorised the arrests on Monday. Don Vito Cascio-Ferro, a leading mafia "godfather", was among those arrested on suspicion of having had a role in Petrosino's killing. But he was released after a politician said that Cascio-Ferro had been at his house when the US detective was shot. On Monday 91 people were taken into custody in raids focusing on two Cosa Nostra clans operating in the west of Palermo. They were accused of a variety of offences, including extortion and money laundering. The burly Petrosino was hit by four shots as he stood by a statue of Garibaldi in a central Palermo piazza. The murder of New York's most famous detective, who had emigrated as a child from southern Italy, appalled people in the US. Mounted police and a guard of honour accompanied his body as it was carried to his home from the liner on which he had crossed the Atlantic. According to a contemporary estimate, about 200,000 New Yorkers turned out for his funeral procession. Petrosino's life and death provided the inspiration for the 1960 film Pay or Die, in which the detective was played by Ernest Borgnine. The suspicion that Cascio-Ferro had had a hand in the killing was revived many years later, by which time the Cosa Nostra boss had been arrested, tried and jailed for another murder. According to John Dickie's history of the Sicilian mafia, Cascio-Ferro told an interviewer after his imprisonment that he had only killed one man "and I did that disinterestedly". His cryptic remark was interpreted by some as a reference to the Petrosino murder, implying he had ordered it as a favour to Cosa Nostra mobsters in the US.
Learn These Words in Italian!
IT !
Italian greetings
SA Y
rick Brydone is one of them. He toured the south of Italy and wrote a book called A Tour though Sicily and Malta (dating to 1773). Here is he described the float parade: “The triumphal chariot was preceded by a party of men on horseback, with trumpets and drums, and by all the high officials of the city in full regalia. The “machine” is truly enormous: it measures seventy feet in length, thirty in width and over eighty in height; as it passes through the streets, it towers above Palermo’s tallest houses. The lower part looks like a Roman galley, but it widens towards the upper part. The front part is broader and shaped like an oval amphitheatre, with seats all around: this is the great orchestra, thronged with musicians in several rows, one above the other. At the back of the orchestra rises a great cupola, supported by six Corinthian columns and adorned with numerous figures of saints and angels, with a gigantic silver statue of Santa Rosalia on the top.” French artist and archaeologist Baron Dominique Vivant Denon wrote: “The fifth day was celebrated with a never-ending procession that began around sunset and ended one hour after midnight. Here you can see the Palermitans’ predilection for “pageants” and their extreme devotion to their Saint. Each congregation brings its own pageant with a representation of scenes from the Old or the New Testament acted out by means of life-sized images or by children.” Today, modern technology has helped in making the festival a breathtaking event. Thousands among pilgrims and tourists from all over the world annually attend the festino which will feature parades, shows, fireworks, food stalls and religious processions. During this vibrant festival, don’t miss to check the food “bancarelle”(booths) which sell delicious local specialties and treats such as “Càlia e Simenza” (roasted chickpeas and salted pumpkin seeds), “ Sfincione,” (Sicilian pizza topped with tomato sauce, bread crumbs, salted sardines, onions and caciocavallo cheese), “Torrone” (nougat), “Pani e Panelli” (deepfried chickpea fritters), “Crocchè” (potato croquettes), “Pani ca' meusa” (sandwich filled with sautéed beef spleen which could be 'schietta' when sprinkled with grated caciocavallo cheese or “married,' with a fresh ricotta cheese) “Purpu Vugghiutu” (boiled octopus) and the refreshing “muluna” (watermelon) and “gelato” (icecream).
JU ST
The Palermo Catholic community is ready to kick off its 390th edition of the “Festino di Santa Rosalia” (Little Saint Rosalia Festival) that will honor the city patron saint reaching its highlight on Monday, July 14th. The festival features a spectacular show honoring Saint Rosalia whose religious celebrations are observed annually on Sept. 4. Even though Saint Rosalia’s Day is observed on Sept. 4 with religious celebrations, the summer festival is indeed a century-old tradition for all the members of the Palermo Catholic community to give thanks to the saint who saved the city from a terrible plague epidemic in 1624. The evening parade is the highlight of this spectacular festival blending religion and Sicilian folklore. It revolves around the “Carro Trionfale,” a majestic float on top of which a statue depicting the saint is placed. First introduced in 1686, this gilded Baroque float is typically shaped as a boat and built new every year. At the beginning of the festival, the city mayor shouts three times “Viva Palermo e Santa Rosalia!” (Long live Saint Rosalia) kicking off the festivities. According to organizers, this year’s festival will underline the story of the saint’s life . Rosalia was a young medieval noblewoman who decided to abandon her rich and privileged life to serve the poor and the needy and not to become just a hermitess. The story of her life will be told through a fascinating projected light show on the Cathedral’s walls. Another theme of the festival will be the important role of women in the Italian society who juggle between work and family responsibilities. For the first time, the float will be carried only by a group of women from all social classes. The intense devotion displayed by Palermitani (Palermo residents) to Saint Rosalia can also be observed in popular sayings such as “Santa Rosalia, pensateci Voi!” (Saint Rosalia, please take care of it! Palermitani use it when they are puzzled about something) or “Nun mi cuntari li tri ghiorna d’u fistinu.” (“Don’t tell me about the three-day festival,” which means: “don’t tell me what everybody already knows”). Santa Rosalia is indeed invoked for intercession with God in times of need. Her relics, which are kept inside the Palermo cathedral, are venerated by millions of pilgrims around the globe. Famous travelers from the 18th century described this breathtaking festival. Scottish Pat-
English: Good morning Italian: Buon giorno
English: Good night Italian: Buona notte
English: Good evening Italian: Buona sera
English: Good afternoon Italian: Buon pomeriggio
Have fun practicing your Italian! Buona Fortuna!
July 11, 2014
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U.S. Navy HEADLINES Marines and Sailors partner with task force in Gabon By 1ST LT. JAMES STENGER Special-Purpose MAGTF Africa 14.1
Marines and Sailors from Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Africa 14 completed a partnership exercise in Gabon, June 28. The team of 15 Marines and sailors trained with their Gabonese counterparts from the Agence Nationale des Parcs Nationaux and the Gabonese military and Gendarmerie to demonstrate tactics that could then be applied to combat all types of illicit activities, to include narcotics trafficking. The Americans and Gabonese focused on marksmanship, combat life saver and casualty evacuation, tactical site exploitations, mission planning, basic infantry skills, and patrolling tactics. At the conclusion of the engagement, the
Gabonese students completed an eight hour-long patrol base exercise, including a comprehensive mission brief with follow on operations in the jungle, and an assault on a simulated enemy camp with follow on detainee handling, site exploitation, and casualty evacuation procedures. First Lt. Nicholas Bender, the assistant team leader, was one of the Marines responsible for finding out what exactly the Gabonese task force hoped to take away from the partnership exercise and then joining together with them to formulate a training plan. According to him, “when we started the training, it was clear to me the Gabonese were very interested in any training that would enable them to better prevent and counter illegal activity in their country.”
Lance Cpl. Michael Kelly, a Marine with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Africa 14, leads an assault on an objective during training in Gabon, June 13, 2014. A team of 15 Marines and sailors trained with their Gabonese counterparts from the Agence Nationale des Parcs Nationaux and the Gabonese military and Gendarmerie to demonstrate tactics that could then be applied to combat all types of illicit activities, to include narcotics trafficking. (Official Marine Corps photo by 1st Lt. James Stenger/Released)
Revised SDAP rates announced From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- Revisions to Special Duty Assignment Pay (SDAP) for eligible enlisted Sailors were announced in NAVADMIN 156/14 released July 7. The SDAP program enhances the Navy's ability to size, shape and stabilize the force by encouraging qualified Sailors to serve in designated Special Duty Assignments (SDAs) for a monetary incentive ranging from $75 to $450 a month. The update incorporates two additions and several increases to existing SDAPs. Increases to existing SDAP levels are effective upon release of NAVADMIN 156/14. Eligible Sailors serving in the following duty assignments and at the commands listed will receive back pay to March 25, 2013 to cover lost pay due to administrative errors: * Air Traffic Controllers aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), * Helicopter Rescue Swimmers (AW) at Afloat Training Group Mayport, Florida, Naval
Surface Warfare Center, Panama City, Florida, and Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 1 (VX 1), Patuxent River, Maryland. In order to qualify for SDAP, a service member must be assigned to and working in a valid billet on the command's Enlisted Distribution Verification Report (EDVR), hold a matching Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC), must be working in the authorized billet, and. the billet must be authorized by the Bureau of Naval Personnel in the latest SDAP NAVADMIN as an SDA billet. Commanding officers must certify that service members meet all the qualifying criteria established by OPNAVINST 1160.6B, DODINST 1304.27 and NAVADMIN 156/14 prior to a Sailor receiving SDAP. A Sailor must complete all qualifications, including Personal Qualification Standards (PQS) and Under Instruction (UI) watches before they are eligible for SDAP certification. The annual re-certification required by commands with SDAP billets will begin upon release of the recertification NAVADMIN which will provide guidance for the re-certification process. For more information, visit www.npc.navy.mil/career/payandbenefits/sdap/Pages/default. aspx, speak with your Enlisted Community Manager, or read the message at www.npc.navy. mil. For more news from Navy Personnel Command, visit www. navy.mil/local/npc/.
PAGE 8 "4th of July" continued from page 1 the games and everyone seemed to enjoy our little pool party,” MWR Sigonella Aquatics Director Chelsea Garcia said. “We brought out our new inflatable called a Wibit during the pool party and everybody loved it. It was hot, the pool felt great and I think everyone had a great time” After the pool closed-up for the night, the festivities continued in the Midtown courtyard, where food and beverage vendors began selling their refreshments to NAS Sigonella community members. Kids were allowed to play in the Yankee Doodle Dandy Kids Zone which included inflatables provided by MWR Sigonella. For adults, RWB also kicked off a few competitions including a corn-hole tournament and different types of food eating contests. For those who wanted to escape the heat, Sparetime Bowling was also holding 4th of July themes and activities and Connections opened their doors early as well. “There was a lot going on today; almost too much to take in at once,” Yeoman 3rd Class Thornton Jackson said. “But everything was great. I came with some friends and this was a good way to relax and enjoy a summer evening while celebrating our countries birthday.” This year’s musical guests included local band Liar Queen which performed many cover songs of Queen lead singer, Freddie Mercury. Following the local cover band, Navy Entertainment presented the main act for the evening: American rock singer, David Cook. Cook was the seventh season winner on the reality music television show, American Idol and has since recorded multi-platinum records and singles while traveling the globe performing on many USO tours including concerts in Kuwait and Iraq. “This is our second time getting to perform for the troops on the 4th of July and it means everything for us,” Cook said on behalf of his band. “It’s a really big honor and I’m thankful they asked us to come here tonight.” With everything that occurred throughout the day, no Independence Day could be completed without fireworks as the crowd gathered throughout NAS I and stared towards the stars as explosion after explosion lit up the night sky over NAS Sigonella in red, white, blue, and many other colors. “For where the world is at I think the United States is one of, if not, the greatest country in the world,” Cook said during the fireworks. “To get a chance to celebrate its birthday every year and be reminded of what a great country we live in is fantastic. The fact that I get to be a part of the festivities is an added bonus.” Once the fireworks ended, Cook and his band picked up thier instruments and played more songs for the NAS Sigonella community as the celebration came to a close. "We were all thrilled about this year's events and all the participation and positive feedback we received from the community, Gaudette said. "It is one of my favorite events MWR puts on because we get to bring a piece of America to our community."
U.S. Navy Photos by MC3 Cameron Bramham and courtsy of MWR Sigonella/Released
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Be "Sun Smart" this summer, use sun screen properly By HM2 (FMF) MATTHEW CLUTTER U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella
For most people in the Sigonella military community, they aren’t smothered in a perfectly bronzed tan thanks to years of baking in the Sicilian sun. No, most need protection. And that’s where U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s Health Promotions team comes in. With temperatures steadily rising and summer in full swing, it’s as important as ever to practice safety outdoors. For patrons at Splashers Pool on July 1, the Health Promotions team provided tips to remain safe outdoors this summer at their “Sun Smart” event. “Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer with more than 3.5 million Americans diagnosed this year alone,” said Lt. Sarah Anderson, Health Promotions Coordinator. “Most of us are not Sicily natives and our skin is not used to or prepared for the sun and temperature. We wanted to reach out to our community and make sure everyone knew the facts about the sun and how to protect themselves while enjoying the summer here in Sicily.” When looking to protect oneself from the sun, it’s important to understand a few terms. For instance, SPF is an acronym that stands for Sun Protection Factor and correlates to how long the sunscreen will protect skin from burning. It takes about 10 minutes for skin to start burning on a sunny day. SPF gives you an additional 15 times the protection time multiplied by whatever the SPF factor is. For example, a sunscreen with an SPF of
50 gives you 750 minutes (or 12.5 hours) of protection time. Remember that this number applies when using sunscreen as prescribed at least every two hours and after getting out the water and drying off. When picking a sunscreen, be sure the label reads “Broad Spectrum.” This phrase means that protection is offered from UVA waves, which cause long-term damage such as premature aging. Sunscreen also protects from UVB saves which cause sunburn. If you are planning to spend a lot of time in the sun, always remember the following tips: -- Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before you go outside and every two hours thereafter -- Wear a broad-brimmed hat -- Don’t forget SPF lip balm -- Wear sunglasses -- Wear tight-weaved clothing -- Stay in the shade between 1000 and 1400, since that is when the sun is at its strongest -- Stay away from reflective surfaces, such as water, sand and cement during those hours, if possible If you wear dark colors in the sun, make sure to stay hydrated, because this type of clothing tends to overheat the wearer more quickly. If you wear light colored clothing, make sure to wear sunscreen, as light colors reflect the sun more which could cause you to burn more easily. For more information on sun safety this summer, contact your Health Promotions team at 624-4710.
U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Health Promotions Coordinator, Lt. Sarah Anderson, addresses patrons at Splashers Pool, July 1 as part of the Sun Smart event, providing tips on staying safe in the sun this summer. (U.S. Navy Photo by Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Paris Meneses-Blackmon/ Released)
Friday, July 11 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles. *Lunch: New England Clam Chowder, Baked Salmon Fish, Mess Lords Meat Loaf, Penne Alfredo, Roasted Garlic Potatoes, Steamed Asparagus, Cauliflower, Cookies Ice Cream. *Speed line: Asstd Pizza. *Dinner: Cream Of Mushroom Soup, Cantonese Spareribs, Chicken in Orange Sauce, Spaghetti w/ Tuna, Rice Pilaf, Steamed Whole Corn, Cabbage, Cookies.
Tuesday, July 15 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Creamed Sausage w/ Biscuit, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles. *Lunch: Asparagus Soup, Lasagna, Caponata, Pork cutlet Shrimps Salad, Chicken Cordon Blue, Peas w/ Mushrooms, Ice cream. *Speed line: Pasta Bar. Dinner: Beef Rice Soup, Sauerbraten, Penne Alla Norma, Burritos, Lyonnais Rice, Vegetable Stir Fry, Natural Pan Gravy Cake.
Saturday, July 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Bacon, Creamed Beef, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Beef Vegetable Soup, Chicken Drumette, Beef Stroganoff, Egg Noodles, Hash Brown Potatoes, Broccoli, Chicken Gravy, Hot Dog w/Chili Sauce, Cookies. *Dinner: Broccoli Soup, Salisbury Steak, Baked Salmon Fish, Pasta Chef, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Corn on The Cob, Carrots, Cake.
Wednesday, July 16 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Beef, Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Pancakes. *Lunch: Beef Vegetable Soup, Baked Fish w/ Tomato, Sweet & Sour Chicken, Manicotti, Steamed Rice, Cauliflower, Tangy Spinach, Cake, Ice Cream. *Speed line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Turkey Burger, Baked Bacon, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Pepper Steak, Pasta al Forno, Chicken Patties, Steamed Rice, Brown Gravy, Green Beans, Cake.
Sunday, July 13 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak, Creamed Beef, French Toast Puff, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Italian Roasted Potatoes. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Egg Drop Soup, Breaded Pork, Chicken Florencia, Macaroni & Cheese, Hot Dog W/Chili Sauce, Italian Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, Spinach, Cake. *Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Pasta Alfredo, Roast Beef, Chicken Patties, Hot Dog W/Chili Sauce, Fried Rice, Cauliflower au Gratin, Mix Vegetable, Cake. Monday, July 14 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Oven Fried Bacon, Minced Beef, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Italian Roasted Potatoes, French Toast. *Lunch: Chicken Noodle Soup, Manicotti, Baked Fish, Chicken Breast in Orange Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, Rice Pilaf, Summer Squash, Steamed Peas, Chicken Gravy, Yellow Cake, Ice Cream. *Speed line: Asstd Pizza. *Dinner: Pepper Pot Soup, Barbecued Chicken, Beef Pot Pie, Pasta Chef, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Corn Whole Kernel, Chicken Gravy, Yellow Cake.
Thursday, July 17 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, French Toast. *Lunch: Onion Soup, Roast Turkey, Lasagna, Pork Chop w/Mushroom Gravy, Mashed Potatoes, Chicken Gravy, Mix Vegetables, Simmered Cauliflower, Vanilla Cookies, Ice Cream. Speed line: Philly Cheese Steak, Onion Rings, Macaroni & Cheese. Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Meatballs Stroganoff, Penne Americana, Fried Shrimps, Rice Pilaf, Simmered Carrots, Spinach, Vanilla Cookies. Friday, July 18 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Hash Brown Potatoes, Waffles. *Lunch: Cream of Mushroom Soup, Meat loaf, Chipper Fish, Steamed Rice, Calico Cabbage, Herbed Broccoli, Cake. Speed line: Asstd Pizza. *Dinner: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Florancia, Baked Scallop, Rice Pilaf, Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce, Green Beans, Cake.
As a reminder, all dependents are always welcome at the galley! Please provide any negative or positive feedback. There is a suggestion box near the entrance to the galley, next to the serving line.
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ON THE GO WITH MWR
Do you have a passion for writing? Are you looking for a little experience in journalism? The Signature is seeking volunteers to help cover base events as well as feature and travel stories. If this interests you, please call the NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office at DSN 6245440 or email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil. We thank you in advance for your interest and we look forward to our communities input as we continue our efforts to bring you the best possible local newspaper!
Marinai Housing recycling bins and bulk items collection process/schedule - Yellow Dumpsters. Labeled for plastic are designed for disposal of flattened plastic bottles, bags, containers & other plastic material. - Gray Dumpsters. Labeled for paper and cardboard are designed for disposal of flattened cardboard boxes, containers, paper bags, newspaper, books and generic paper. Boxes which are too large to fit in the bins need to be folded neatly and placed on the side of the dumpster for easy pick-up. Newly arriving personnel should retain their HHG boxes and contact the moving company to have them removed from site. - Blue Dumpsters. Labeled for glass & aluminum are designed for disposal of aluminum foil, containers, cans, tins & glass bottles. - Brown Dumpsters. Labeled for organic material & grass trimming are designed exclusively for disposal of grass clippings, small bush branches, leaves, flowers, etc. - Small Brown Bins. Labeled for organic material are designed exclusively for disposal of food waste, coffee grounds, vegetable scrap, fruit scrap & heater ashes. - Green dumpsters. Labeled for urban waste are designed for the collection of non-recyclable, everyday trash. - Bulk-item trash collection day is every Wednesday and shall include pick up of the following: privately owned appliances, beds, mattresses, couches, rugs, discarded furniture and play equipment. Please place the items to be discarded at the end of your driveway on the day before the scheduled pick-up. Please do not discard bulk-items in/or around dumpster areas, or dispose of any rocks/bricks into the trash bins, as such material causes damage to the pick-up trucks & to the trash bins. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that recycling and trash disposal is conducted responsibly. If your children assist in the disposing of trash, make sure they are able to reach the top of the bins to lift the lid & place the trash inside. In the event the bins closest to your quarters are full, please do not place trash on the ground, but find other available bins. Please report any discrepancies to the Marinai Housing Office at DSN 624-1731 in order to preserve a healthy and sanitary environment for your family.
Housing – Energy Saving Tips The summer season is upon us. Electric and water consumption tend to increase when the hot season bears down on the island of Sicily. Here are some helpful tips to properly manage your electrical and water usage, help us conserve energy/resources, and mitigate the increased utilities cost during the hot summer months: • Maintain air conditioned boundary. If you have your AC running, please keep doors and windows closed. Closing the blinds or drapes on the sunny side of your home will help you keep your rooms at a comfortable temperature. • Set your thermostat properly. Recommended setting is at 26 Celsius or 78 Fahrenheit • Watch out for water leaks from your faucets, commodes, showers, or washers. Report water leak by contacting your UH or NGIS front desk or calling the Marinai Housing Trouble Desk at 624-1731. • Wash a full load of laundry. It will reduce water and electricity usage, and likewise decrease wear & tear on your washers & dryers. • Water your lawn once or twice a week. Please don’t leave your water running all day or all night. A typical lawn only requires one (1) inch of water per week. Each and every guest and residents at our Navy Gateway Inn & Suites, Unaccompanied Housing, and Military Family Housing plays an important role in our effort to conserve energy and use our natural resources wisely. We need your help!
GAME ZONE
SCUBA Diving AIR PRESSURE ALTITUDE DIVING ANOXIA ATMOSPHERE BAROTRAUMA BOOTIES BOUNCE DIVE BUBBLES BUDDY SYSTEM BUOYANCY C CARD COMPASS COMPRESSOR CORAL REEF CURRENT DECOMPRESSION DEPTH GAUGE
Find and circle all of the SCUBA Diving words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell the meaning of the letters of SCUBA.
DIVE COMPUTER DIVE FLAG DIVE MARSHAL DRYSUIT EDDY EMBOLISM GAS CYLINDER GAS MIXTURE GIANT STRIDE HELIOX HOSE HYPOTHERMIA LEEWARD LUNGS MASK MEMBRANE MOUTHPIECE NARCOSIS
NEOPRENE NITROGEN NITROX OCEAN OXYGEN PANIC REBREATHER RECOMPRESSION REGULATOR SCOOTER SEA LEVEL SHEARS SHOAL SILICONE SNORKEL SPEAR GUN STROBE SWIM FINS
SWIMMING TANK THE BENDS TIDE TOXICITY TRIMIX UNDERSEA UNDERSUIT UNDERTOW VALVE VISION VOLUME WATER WEIGHT BELT WEIGHTS WETSUIT WINDWARD
DIFFICULT
As a Chaplain, I often see service members in desperate situations where they entirely lack hope. Whether it’s a failure to promote, whether it’s credit card indebtedness, whether it’s a mother back home struggling with cancer, or whether it’s marital difficulties after years of frustration, many face intense periods of discouragement without any sense of hope. I have been with people at the very worst of times in their lives, and for at least the moment they gave up in despair. Yet remarkably I have encountered people who were undergoing even more challenging circumstances, and they approached their problems with a sense of resilience. Why? The latter had hope. How do we recover a sense of hope to rebound from personal tragedies? Here are only a few strategies by which we can cope with hope as a resource for resilience. 1) Take inventory of your life and count your benefits. I have frequently provided pastoral care for individuals who suffered from an emotional myopia and failed to see that they had more going for them than they had realized. By the time the Sailors finished itemizing the good in their lives, they had reclaimed a sense of hope about their issues. 2) Discover that you are not alone with your problems. Discuss with those inside your circle of influence the need for words of encouragement. Ask them to motivate you with positive quotes, uplifting Scriptures, and honest compliments. “As iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17), so we can encourage one another as family and friends. 3) Celebrate incremental progress and gradual headway. Zechariah 4:10 encourages us not to disdain the day of small beginnings. The most important step in any journey of hope is the first step. It could be the first appointment to see a Fleet and Family Support counselor; it could be your first meeting with AA; it could be going to Chapel together as a family. All of these are signs of hope and a fresh start. 4) Cultivate a sense of humor. Studies indicate that laughter is wonderful medicine. Don’t take yourself too seriously, and if you do, learn to laugh at yourself. Watch hilarious programs that help you relax and chill out. Laughter is one source of hope. A good laugh helps to renew your perspective and balance out everyday trials. 5) Deepen your personal relationship with God through prayer, contemplation, worship, or a drive through the Sicilian countryside. Behold a dazzling sunset or the fireworks of Mount Etna with a sense of awe and wonder. Nothing drives hope like faith! Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “We must accept finite disappointments, but never lose infinite hope.” I dare say someone around you could use a dose of hope, and perhaps that someone is you! Disappointment is inevitable, but hope is always a choice. Remember the old proverb: “God can heal broken hearts, but we just have to give Him all the pieces!”
NAS Sigonella's Housing Corner
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July 11, 2014
MEDIUM
LT Edward Erwin NAS Sigonella Command Chaplain
July 11, 2014
EASY
Hope Is a Choice!
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PAGE 14 "WWII Vet" continued from page 1 the fresh-faced boys who helped make her fly again, Tollefson said he would still have felt content. After the 6,000-mile trek from Tacoma, Wash., to Pachino, he had finally made it back. Failing sight or not, he eagerly awaited the opportunity, any opportunity, to look his Italian host in the eyes and offload his unyielding appreciation for the Sicilian people. The reason for this gratitude was simple. During the time the mechanics were in Sicily, the farmer was very kind to them. It was still German-occupied Sicily and Operation Husky, the Allied invasion that ultimately liberated Sicily, had not yet commenced. But the farmer not only allowed them to clear his land, he provided them chains and lumber for the half-mile runway. Once they finished with the repairs the farmer invited them over for a meal of escargot and small tomatoes, and left them with a special treat to enjoy on Independence Day. “He sent us home with a 15-gallon keg of vino,” Tollefson said. “And with a 15-gallon keg of vino on the 4th of July, you know what Yanks do.” The whole story of the 26th and their special melon patch mission was not discovered until 65 years after the mission. In fact, it was during Tollefson’s 90th birthday celebration in 2008 when Steve found 18 black and white Kodak Brownie photographs in his father’s basement. The photos were of the Herb and his cronies, as well as the B-24 in the melon patch. There was also a photograph of the post-repair takeoff by Capt. Warner Newby (later a USAF major general) and Tollefson’s best friend, Tech Sgt. Benny Pillo who co-piloted the plane. Though Tollefson and Newby became lifetime friends, Herb had never mentioned a thing. Since learning about the “Melon Patch Special,” Steve became absorbed and has begun writing a book about the mission. This led to the interest for the pair to return to Sicily as part of a smaller leg of a trip they had planned to Malta to visit the descendants of wartime friends and to donate his uniform to the war museum there. Herb told Steve that the two of them “would take the fast ferry from Malta to Sicily, rent a car, and simply drive around” the Pachino and Ipsica areas until Herb recognized the old melon patch before they went home.
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Steve had a better idea. He contacted the U.S. embassy in Malta, who in turn contacted NAS Sigonella. From there Dr. Alberto Lunetta, community relations director with NASSIG public affairs, contacted the mayor of Pachino, who made up flyers announcing Tollefson’s visit, which were distributed to the town people for a July 2 gathering at the meeting hall in Pachino. Throughout every step of the process the same questions were asked – is it possible for Tollefson to come and say thank you to the people of Pachino? Does anybody remember the bomber and its repairmen? Though nobody knew for sure at that time, the answer to both questions would be yes. On the morning of July 2, a sevenpassenger van picked up the Tollefsons from the Navy Lodge. During coordination Lunetta had asked long time NAS Sigonella employee John Hoffpauir to accompany the Tollefsons to Pachino. In 1962, Hoffpauir and his bride Paola came to work at NAS Sigonella. He worked there nearly 50 years and the couple still live together in nearby Catania. Always the historian, Hoffpauir had spent hours filtering through drawers of newspaper clippings, photos, and maps to see what, if anything, could be learned about Tollefson’s mission, but maintained his doubts that anybody would remember the B-24 let alone the men or the location of the field cleared by the 26th. That morning the van headed south from Sigonella to Pachino as Hoffpauir and Tollefson sat in the middle row and chatted about the war. Steve sat in the far back, clutching a book that contained reprints of the 18 originals with adjacent words explaining the story behind the images. Despite suffering from macular degeneration – a condition that affects vision due to retina damage – the 96-yearold would occasionally look out the window, perhaps to see if this version of Sicily was anything like the one he remembered. He seemed a mix of excited and perhaps a bit nervous, asking a few times if he needed to wear a tie or just a jacket. “Just a jacket,” Lunetta reassured him. Despite Lunetta’s guidance, Tollefson decided he’d wear both with an aviation tie clip for the special moment. No reason to get too informal with a moment he had waited decades for. The van arrived in Pachino. Both Tollefsons were surprised and perhaps a
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little moved by the police escort the mayor had provided from centro Pachino to the meeting hall. Pulling into the dirt lot, the Tollefsons saw rows of cars parked. There had to be 30 or so vehicles. They knew the mayor had been able to organize a small reception. Were all these people here to see Tollefson? Steve got Herb ready. He helped get him into the wheel chair, and then pushed him across the dirt. A few locals greeted Tollefson as he wheeled past. A translator provided by the city walked next to him, making introductions and providing translation as they headed toward the gathering place. Once inside, the elder Tollefson was ramped up a red carpet that led to the larger room. There must have been 50 people inside. The Tollefsons seemed quite flattered. A reporter and his cameraman interviewed Tollefson who profusely thanked the Sicilians while explaining the reason behind his visit. Atop the meeting hall stage was a long table with a rich red table cloth that had “Citta Di Pachino” embroidered in white. Later on there would be a Q&A panel between the mayor, published historians, the locals gathered and Tollefson himself. But before that panel began, and shortly after the interview, there was a rumbling in the hall. Like wild fire word spread that there was someone there who remembered the Melon Patch Special. Indeed, a local man named Armenta Salvatore who had come to hear more about Herb’s story, was looking at one of the B-24 photographs that Steve had distributed. Salvatore had confirmed how as a 7-year-old he remembered walking along a dirt path next to the melon patch as the repaired B-24 took off for another air field. “It was very big and very noisy,” Salvatore recalled all these years later. “I never forgot the event!” The moment the Tollefsons had hoped for had come to fruition. “It clinched my story,” Tollefson laughed. “It meant that I wasn’t making this stuff up.” Before he could sit himself up, Salvatore was in front of him, crouching down to meet his beaming eyes. Tollefson
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July 11, 2014 adjusted, straightened himself, and then stood and embraced Salvatore, while tears flowed down both men’s weathered cheeks. After the embrace, the man started to excitedly speak in Italian. Before sitting back in his wheel chair, Tollefson again launched himself toward Salvatore for another round of hugs and kisses. “This is what it’s all about,” Steve whispered in my ear. “This is only the third time I have seen him cry. The first two were at the funerals for my mother and brother. This is the moment we dreamed about.” Led by the locals, later on Herb was taken back to the melon patch where it was believed he had made those repairs all the years ago. Herb and his boy took some photos together. They saw discarded melons, a flat field, and even some snails. The last survivor of the 26th Air Depot Group had completed his final mission to Sicily, saying thank you to old friends, and making new ones along the way. It was a day those who took part will likely never forget. “I’m right on top of the world,” Herb said the next day as he reflected on the special reunion. “I’ve never been more enthused. We came and completed our mission. Now I can go back to Washington State and report to General Newby’s and Benny Pillo’s daughters that I was there in the melon patch and we found someone who remembers. And that I got to say thank you.”
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Heat Stress Flag Conditions Sigonella offers help Don't forget to check the Heat Stress Flag if you're running outside this summer! FLAG COLOR WHITE
GREEN
YELLOW
RED
BLACK
TEMPS.
EXERCISING W O R K I N G OUTDOORS OUTDOORS
Below 80 °F
Low heat stress risk. However, intense physical exertion can precipitate heat injury.
No work restrictions.
80 - 84.9 °F
Discretion required in planning heavy exercise. This is a marginal heat stress limit.
15-minute work breaks per hour for moderate work. 30-minute work breaks per hour for heavy work.
85-87.9 °F
Strenuous exercise and activity curtailed for new personnel during first 3 weeks of heat exposure.
15-minute breaks per hour for light work; 30-minutebreaks for moderate work; 45 minutes for heavy work.
88 - 89.9 °F
Strenuous exercise curtailed for all personnel with less than 12 weeks training in hot weather.
30-minute breaks per hour for light work; 45 minutes for moderate work. Heavy work scheduled at cooler part of the day.
90 °F and above
No physical training or exercise for all personnel.
45 minute work breaks per hour for light work only.
The Heat Stress Flag is located across the street from the Safety Office (Bldg 634) on NAS II near the Flight Line Clinic Parking Lot. It is maintained by the NASSIG Safety Department: 624-5630.
for expectant parents by LIZ ZENDER American Red Cross Sigonella Special Events & Fundraising Chair
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Some might say that it’s something in the water, others might attribute it to fertile volcanic ash. Whatever the reason, lots of babies are born at U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Sigonella. Chances are that anyone who has been at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella for any length of time knows someone who is either pregnant or recently welcomed a baby into the family. What many may not know is that there are a plethora of services offered to new and future moms and dads in the NAS Sigonella community. The American Red Cross Sigonella offers two health and safety classes that are invaluable to soon-to-be parents. Healthy Pregnancy, Healthy Baby is taught by nurses from the hospital who play an integral role in childbirth. The class covers topics such as physical/emotional changes during pregnancy, the growth process of babies, coping with labor, and infant health and safety. Future mom Jill Warning was happy to have Melissa Rosloniec as her course instructor. “Melissa makes you feel comfortable talking about any topic or question,” she said. The group also takes a trip through the hospital to see where the delivery will happen, which was Sigonella’s newest dad Nick Lewarne’s favorite part of the class. “We had some questions about our birth plan options that [Melissa] was able to simplify and answer for us off the top of her head,” he commented. The next class will be held July 26 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The American Red Cross Sigonella also offers Adult, Child, and Infant CPR/First Aid/AED. This class is useful for new and future parents alike. Taking responsibility for the life of a tiny human might seem overwhelming, but learning how to administer CPR and first aid can help alleviate some of the worry over potential emergency situations. The next class will be held July 19 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Space is limited for both classes, so signing up early is advisable. Contact the American Red Cross Sigonella at DSN 624-4900. The Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Sigonella offers help for parents through its New Parent Support Program. A key part of the program is the Daddy Boot Camp. Jessica Poole says, “This class is an opportunity for dads to get their questions answered and to obtain helpful information on how to be the best dad possible.” It assists new and soon-to-be fathers in preparing for changes that come along with fatherhood, which is a huge life transition. The class is currently on hiatus, but should return on a date to be determined in August. Contact FFSC Sigonella at DSN 624-4291 for more information. On the third Wednesday of every month, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society offers a Budget for Baby class in the library classroom. The class helps attendees complete a budget using the service member’s leave and earnings statement, and educates new and soon-to-be parents on spending changes that will need to occur with a new baby. Upon completion of the class, participants receive a hand-crocheted blanket and a layette for the baby. In addition, visiting nurse, AnnMarie Morrison makes home visits to new parents, and also offers nursing education. The next class will be held Aug. 6 at 12:30 p.m. Contact NMCRS at DSN 624-4212. USNH Sigonella offers a breastfeeding education class for new parents on a monthly basis. Lt. Cross teaches new moms and dads about nursing techniques, in addition to discussing the importance and benefits of breastfeeding. The next class will be held Aug. 8, 1 - 4 p.m. There is a limit of three couples per class. Contact USNH Sigonella at DSN 624-2273, and select OB appointments. THE AMERICAN RED CROSS IS A NON-FEDERAL ENTITY. IT IS NOT A PART OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE OR ANY OF ITS COMPONENTS AND IT HAS NO GOVERNMENTAL STATUS.
How would you spend $50,000 to beautify our base? During the month of July, Naval Air Station Sigonella will compete against four other regional installations during the Biggest Energy Loser contest as part of the Navy's ongoing effort to be good stewards of our resources. The winning base will be awarded $50,000 to beautify their base! Specific details of the contest will be posted soon, but we want to hear from you now! How would you like to see $50,000 spent on beautifying NASSIG? Please send your ideas to us at thesig@eu.navy.mil.
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