The Science of Sleep Why Good Sleeping Habits are Important
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Show Some Love for CFC What's Your Cause?
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American Indians
N A S SIG O N E L L A
Serving the U.S. Since Its Birth
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NOVEMBER 24, 2017
Vol. 34 No. 44
Marines and Sailors Conduct Evacuation Control Center Training Lance Cpl. Patrick Osino SPMAGTF-CR-AF Public Affairs
A U.S. Marine assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa processes a notional evacuee during non-combatant evacuation operation training aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, on Nov. 17, 2017. SPMAGTF-CR-AF deployed to conduct limited crisis-response and theater-security operation in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Patrick Osino)
U.S. Marines assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa conduct a search during non-combatant evacuation operation training aboard Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy, on Nov. 17, 2017. SPMAGTF-CR-AF deployed to conduct limited crisis-response and theater-security operation in Europe and Africa. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Patrick Osino)
NAS Sigonella, Sicily - U.S. Marines and Sailors assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Africa conducted an evacuation control center (ECC) training exercise in conjunction with base personnel Nov. 17. The training helped to test and evaluate the unit’s capability to work with the base in conducting noncombatant evacuations (NEO). “The exercise simulated getting evacuees and American citizens out of a country or area that is unstable,” said 1st Lt. David Kerkhoff, officer-incharge of ECC operations. “ECC is meant to track and process all personnel that have been evacuated and make sure that they are accounted for.” The ECC training included verifying identities, medical assistance, individual contraband searches, and administrative processing. “We have to identify the categories of evacuees and move them through a number of stations for pat-down searches, administrative processing, and medical inspections before they can be evacuated safely,” said Sgt. Dominic Dady, current operations chief with the unit. The current rotation of SPMAGTF-CR-AF worked with permanent Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella personnel who filled roles on both sides of the simulation as evacuees and as security screeners during the training to simulate a real evacuation. “The NAS Sigonella Emergency Operations Center plays an integral part in NEO by bringing together the Marines with the Naval Hospital, Navy Marine Corps Relief Society, the Red Cross, Religious Ministries, and other agencies on the base,” said Niki McBain, NAS Sigonella installation emergency manager. “Exercises like this one ensure that, should the need arise for us to activate an evacuation center here at Sigonella, we will be fully capable to support their mission.” During the exercise, the role players, some who portrayed pregnant women, highly contagious people, or who were disruptive, made the training more realistic. In one scenario, Marines quickly de-escalated a situation where an embassy employee was complaining about being patted down and questioned because he claimed he did not pose a threat. In another scenario, one role player had a notional improvised explosive device in his luggage. The Marines conducting the search and screening were able to detect the explosive and put the person in custody for further evaluation. At any given time the Department of State may call for the evacuation of U.S. citizens out of a foreign country facing natural disasters, political unrest, or a deteriorating government. In that situation, a NEO is conducted to evacuate U.S. citizens whose lives are in danger. Once the Secretary of State approves an evacuation, the U.S. ambassador to the country has the authority to implement the plan during a crisis. “I think we executed the training pretty well and I am confident in saying that if this were to happen in a real world situation, we could do it successfully,” said Dady. SPMAGTF-CR-AF is a self-sustaining crisis-response force prepared for the protection of American personnel and facilities on the African continent when directed. The SP-MAGTF CR gives U.S. Africa Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Africa a broad range of military capabilities to respond to crises in its area-of-responsibility including conducting non-combatant evacuation, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and support to U.S. embassies, and other operations, missions and activities as directed by national and command leadership.
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NOVEMBER 24, 2017
Direct Line
MAC (EXW/SW) Matt Tarlton, Combined Federal Campaign, Community Area Project Officer Greetings Team Sigonella, As members of the United States Military we are focused on making the world a better place, serving as a global force for good. This fall, there is another way we can make an impact on the world around us: we can collectively Show Some Love through the Combined Federal Campaign. With thousands of participating charities, you are sure to find a cause that is close to your heart. Whether you choose to give to feed the hungry, heal the sick, support veterans or another worthy cause, your donation will make a difference in the lives of those in need. Let’s make the 2017 CFC a success. The CFC is a government program that gives federal employees the opportunity to donate to nonprofit organizations at the local, national and international levels. Last year, military and civilian employees contributed more than $167 million to almost 20,000 local, national and interna-
tional charities. Sigonella military and DOD civilians accounted for more than $90,000 of that total. Once again this year, DoD employees worldwide have the opportunity to give to their favorite charitable cause until to Jan. 12, 2018. The 2017 CFC campaign year brings many exciting changes. Here’s what’s new: Retiree Giving: For the first time, Federal retirees are invited to support their favorite charitable causes through the CFC via a deduction from their annuity allowing them to continue giving back to their community, country, and people around the world. Volunteerism: In addition to monetary pledges, CFC donors will be able to pledge their volunteer time to causes they care about in 2017. Volunteerism provides valuable work experience, builds meaningful community connections, and creates feelings of pride, loyalty, and engagement with charita-
ble organizations. The total number of hours, and their monetary value, may be shared with agencies at the completion of the campaign. The biggest change this year is the elimination of cash donations and the establishment of the Giving Portal. For the first time, there is now a centralized giving portal where all contributors can go to make a pledge. The portal is a one-stop, user-friendly, web-based giving system is built to state-of-the art security standards to protect private information. To learn more about how to give online visit https://cfcgiving.opm.gov/. If you chose to donate online please ensure to select the correct reporting unit in order for the CFC team to properly track donations. If you would like to give through the traditional paper pledges someone is looking for you. NAS Sigonella and each tenant command have multiple CFC representatives working diligently to make contact with you right now!
If you have any questions or need help making a pledge please feel free to contact me at matthew.tarlton@ eu.navy.mil DSN: 624-5686, or MA1 Michael Carter at michael.carter@ eu.navy.mil DSN: 624-9451, and we will be more than happy to help! Thank you for Showing Some Love! Your generosity has a positive impact on local communities, across the nation, and around the world.
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and
therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/ suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment regarding “Water outage in Bldg. 560”
Building 560 has been without water multiple times within weeks and public works cannot be reached to determine when it would be restored. This is absolutely awful for health reasons. Having showers without water for days, toilets being used without confidence they will be able to be flushed brings up health and sanitary concerns. There should be no reason why buildings go days without water. At a minimum, residents should know when the water is expected to be restored.
Response
Thank you for your comment and raising the issue of water outages in Building 560. You are absolutely right to do so. As you are most likely aware the base is undergoing a large construction project to replace damaged and outdated buried potable waterlines. Recently this project did have an unplanned outage that affected the Marine barracks and extended the outage beyond our posted timeline. An outage affecting the Marine barracks was approved for four hours on 17 Oct. prior to execution. During the construction the valves used to isolate the pipe, involved in this work area, were not functioning properly and as a result the start of the outage was delayed and ended up involved more buildings than initially anticipated. This also resulted in the work being prolonged past the four hour timeline. To compound the problem there was further delay due to unforeseen conditions surrounding the existing pipe to be demolished. The Public Works Department failed to provide timely notification of these delays to our customers. The contractor's work continued late into the night in their efforts to restore water. Water was restored at approximately 0215 on the 18th. As a result of this event Public Works stopped all work and reviewed established outage procedures, and
held training focused on improving timely communication and better customer service for future scheduled outages. Public Works apologizes for its poor communication and inconvenience to you our valued customers. In the future should you experience an unplanned water outage or any other maintenance emergency, please call the Public Works trouble call desk at 624-6013. If you would like to discuss this issue further or have any other questions please contact the Deputy Public Works Officer, Mr. Jonpaul Thomasseau at DSN 314-624-2905 or by email at JonPaul.Thomasseau@eu.navy.mil.
Comment regarding “Strongman Competition sign-ups”:
When trying to sign up for the Sigonella Strongman Competition, I waited until the second to last day due to operational commitments. The staff told me I wasn’t allowed to sign up and did not give me a reason as to why. This event was very poorly advertised, and if there were limited spaces, this should have been publicized with the event. The staff was approached at the walk-through prior to the event to enquire about walk-on competitors and was told that they would be allowed. At the actual event though, they did not allow walk-ons and said that no one had been told that they would allow walk-ons. Customer: Matthew Gardner matthew.gardner@usmc.mil
Response
Thank you for your feedback about the Strongman event held in conjunction with AutumnFest. I'm sorry to hear that you received inaccurate information re-
"ICE" continued on Page 3
THE SIGNATURE
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Logistics Specialist Seaman
Gary Bryant Hometown: Fresno, Calif. Department: HAZMAT
Walking into the (Hazardous Material) HAZMAT center on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella is like walking into a library for hazardous materials. Shelves line the walls with combustibles, aerosols, flammable materials and more, each segregated from the others in clean allotted areas. Logistics Specialist Seaman Gary Bryant is one of the few Sailors in charge of keeping this library safely organized and thoroughly clean. “We’re basically the storage facility for people’s HAZMAT so we make sure people have the proper paperwork along with ensuring they took all the proper steps before issuing out their materials,” said Bryant. “We usually get quite a bit of HAZMAT around the fall, usually around two to three pallets of oil alone, then around at least 20 pieces of different material like paint, grease or any other random type.” Outside of his normal job, Bryant works as the Assistant Command Fitness Leader (ACFL) for his command and also serves on the Heritage Committee. “As the ACFL I don’t mind working with people one-on-one to help find a workout routine suitable for them,” said Bryant. “So for instance, if someone has a knee problem, I’ll offer plenty of workouts they can do so they don’t damage their body anymore.” When he isn’t at work Bryant can be
found volunteering at one of the numerous Community Relation (COMREL) projects held by NAS Sigonella or serving on the color guard. “I’ve participated in the Navy Ball, NAVSUP change of command, and the last COMREL for the Italian World War 1 Veteran’s day,” said Bryant. “It was great to go downtown in our blues and learn how it was for the town itself during the war.” After work and volunteering, Bryant enjoys working out, playing soccer, video games and going to school. He’s currently working towards a degree in computer programming with a minor in biology and hopes to achieve a master’s in biotechnology soon.
"ICE" continued from Page 2 garding event day registration for the event. Unfortunately, MWR management was unable to follow up with the person you received the misinformation from because you did not provide the employee's name in your comment. What I do know is that the Strongman event was advertised with a registration deadline of October 18. This deadline was necessary to ensure adequate event planning and organization with the number of participants who registered. The Strongman event and registration deadline was advertised through facility signage at both fitness centers, AFN radio, base newspaper, and MWR outreach tables. If you have future or further questions on the MWR Adult Sports program please feel free to contact the Sports Coordinator Mr. Jermaine Weekes by email at Jermaine.weekes@eu.navy. mil or DSN 624-4951 or COMM: 095-56-4951.
Comment regarding “Condition of Roads”:
I have no idea how to make an ICE comment to CNIC or 6th Fleet however I am hoping this comment will be passed along. I am currently stationed in Sigonella. I have been stationed overseas in multiple locations but this tour, base related, has been the worst tour for me and my family. The current base leadership seems to make excuses for all concerns but never seems to make corrections. The running joke is he is too concerned with picking up trash than actually making changes to better the morale and living/working conditions we are around every day. For example, I have been here just over one year and twice
Bryant checked onboard a little over a year ago, and so far thoroughly enjoys his time in Sicily. “I really like the serenity and how peaceful it is here, and I enjoy being away from cities and towns,” said Bryant. “I also really like the buildings and architecture. Everything is modern mixed with old—like cobble roads with new buildings or ancient churches standing right next to a mall.” Along with the beautiful scenery and culture, Bryant likes his job and more importantly he likes his coworkers. “My command is like a big family,” said Bryant. “My coworkers are like my siblings and I think it’s really awesome that we have that here.”
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writer \ Photographer MC2 Christopher Gordon Christopher.Gordon@eu.navy.mil 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
now I have had to have repairs to my car suspension because of the roads inside the triangle between housing and the bases. When these concerns are brought up, it is stated that tax payers don't live in this area therefore the roads won't get fixed. However, we live in this area, probably a greater population than most of the local towns, and we pay rent and taxes. I would believe that we as US military can influence the local government. I believe there is a US Embassy, and other high ranking leadership, that could influence some kind of change. I have counted 58 potholes in the seven miles between bases. I can't afford to keep fixing my car like this. The base CO's suggestion is to take the longer way around or slow down. I drive the speed limit however it doesn't fix the car hitting potholes and the longer way around will take you over half an hour vs. ten minutes. This is just one example of the issues we are having at Sigonella. We have a long list. Every day we talk about these issues in some way. I am senior enlisted and my voice is ignored. What about our junior Sailors and our families? I would be more than happy to discuss these issues with anybody who has the concern to listen. Thanks a lot for your time.
Response
Let me guess - you wanted the Halloween trick or treating to be on October 31 as well? I thought about this ICE comment for a while before I sat down to write my response. I have been accused of many things in my 24 year career, but with the
"ICE" continued on Page 14
This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy. mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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Changes Are Coming to TRICARE From U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Public Affairs
Changes are coming to your TRICARE benefits beginning Jan. 1, 2018. These changes will give you more benefit choices, improving your access to care, simplifying cost shares and allowing you to take command of your health. “Taking command of your health means empowering you to make the right health care and coverage choices for you and your family,” said Capt. Kim Lefebvre, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella commanding officer. “Leading up to Jan. 1, 2018, we will connect you with TRICARE resources to navigate your benefit questions.” The best way for you to prepare now is to update your information in DEERS, sign up for TRICARE benefit updates, and visit https://tricare.mil/ changes. Here are changes that you will need to know about: Region Consolidation Currently, there are three TRICARE regions in the U.S.: North, South and West. The North and South regions will combine on Jan. 1, 2018 to form TRICARE East, while TRICARE West will remain mostly unchanged. Two new contractors, Humana Military and Health Net Federal Services, will administer these regions. This change will allow better coordination between the military hospitals and clinics and the civilian health care providers in each region. TRICARE Select On Jan. 1, 2018, TRICARE Select will replace TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra both stateside and overseas.
Stateside, TRICARE Select will be a self-managed, preferred provider network option. You will not be required to have a primary care manager (PCM) and therefore you can visit any TRICARE-authorized provider for services covered by TRICARE without a referral. If you live overseas, TRICARE Overseas Program Select will be a preferred provider organization-styled plan that provides access to both network and non-network TRICARE-authorized providers for medically necessary TRICARE covered services. TRICARE Select adopts a number of improvements, including additional preventive care services previously only offered to TRICARE Prime beneficiaries. TRICARE Prime TRICARE Prime is a managed care program option. An assigned PCM provides most of your care. When you need specialty care, your PCM will refer you to a specialist. Active duty service members and their family members do not pay anything when referred to a network provider by their PCM. All others pay annual enrollment fees and network copayments. Enrollment All current TRICARE beneficiaries will be automatically enrolled into plans on Jan. 1, 2018 as long as they are eligible. TRICARE Prime enrollees will remain in TRICARE Prime. TRICARE Standard and TRICARE Extra beneficiaries will be enrolled in TRICARE Select. During 2018, you can continue to choose to
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
Holiday Safety Message
From The Secretary of the Navy I would like to wish the men and women of the Navy and Marine Corps team a joyful holiday season. I am grateful for your dedicated service and am humbled to serve alongside you. Throughout the world, the holiday season is a time of renewed hope for peace and goodwill. You are the foundation of that hope. Your Nation, fellow Americans, and our friends and allies around the world respect and value your commitment. Remember that the decisions you make effect the whole Navy enterprise. Holidays are statistically high periods for accidents and injuries, and there is no more tragic loss than one that was preventable. Stay safe and give yourself, your family, your shipmates, and fellow Marines the most precious gift of all - life. The upcoming holiday season provides a well-deserved opportunity to celebrate The Honorable Richard V. Spencer our accomplishments with those dearest to us, our family and friends. Enjoy the holiday season, be safe in all that you do, and remember that not everyone on our team is able to be with their loved ones. For those of you who are far from home and who go in harm's way, you are always in Polly and my thoughts and prayers. Know that your mission is important and your sacrifice is appreciated. Stay safe and look after every single member on our great team. I am honored to have joined the Navy and Marine Corps family; one that loves, cares, and shares responsibility for each other. May God bless you and your families during this holiday season and in the year to come. May God continue to bless the United States of America. enroll in or change coverage plans. In fall 2018, TRICARE will introduce an annual open enrollment period. During this period, you will choose whether to continue or change your coverage for the following year. Each year, the open enrollment period will begin on the Monday of the second full week in November and run through the Monday of the second full week in December.
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
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Sleep and Your Brain By Lt. Mark Knutson Health Promotion Coordinator
For many of us, sleep takes a back seat when compared to other health related topics. It is common for many military members to think of sleep as optional, or live by the phrase, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” or “Sleep is over-rated.” Having this attitude toward sleep is disrupting our ability to achieve better health and it’s just plain simply is true. There has been an explosion in the energy drink business to try to capture that feeling of wakefulness. No amount of caffeine, guanine, taurine… you name it, nothing will replace a well-rested body with the right quantity, quality and timing of sleep. Think about it, what other activity is so important that you spend about one third of your time doing it! According to the National Institutes of Health, quality sleep is as essential to survival as food and water. Every human being, famous, not famous, rich, and poor, needs sleep. It’s somewhat of a biological mystery. Sleep affects almost every type of tissue, organ, and system in the body. Getting enough of quality sleep not only enhances your daily work performance but also holds chronic
illnesses such as cardiovascular disease at bay. How much sleep is enough? Every person is different and so is the need. Sleep is also dependent on stages of development. Children need more than adults and babies need more then children. On average, 7-9 hours of sleep for most adults puts it in a nice ballpark. What about dreams? Everyone dreams. Most people spend about 2 hours each night dreaming, most of it is in the REM stage of sleep. The role of dreams is still not understood. Many great musicians, artists, and writers have had inspiration come from their dreams. Most of us don’t even remember our dreams after waking. One way to capture that creative energy is to leave a notebook and pen next to your bed and when you wake from a dream, write down the details as they are fresh in your memory. If you would like to learn more about the science behind sleep, why it’s important, and how to achieve better sleep, Health Promotion and Wellness is offering a sleep workshop on Tuesday November 28th from 1400-1530 at the large classroom in the SEAT building next to Naval Hospital. Call 624-4710 to reserve your seat and learn more and live better!
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Corleone mafia boss and mass murderer Totò Riina dies Story by Corriere della Sera
“’U curtu”, ‘shorty’, defied the state from his Corleone stronghold without ever revealing his secrets. His rise to power in the criminal world, culminating in the murders of 1992, was stained with blood. Totò Riina has forever lost his grip on this earthly life and the mafia. That he no longer had any power was confirmed by the decision of justice minister Andrea Orlando to depart from the strict rules of imprisonment for mafiosi, allowing his wife and children to be close to him in his final hours (including Salvo, who is “free but under surveillance”). Nevertheless, right to the end he was a “guiding light for Cosa Nostra”, and still acknowledged as such by his associates, as analysts from the anti-mafia department (DIA) wrote in their last report. He was the boss who imposed his dictatorship on Cosa Nostra, the godfather who rose up through the ranks to the sound of machine gun fire, using TNT and arranging “tragic events”. He was also the one who declared war on the state, trying to oblige it to accept new rules of cohabitation, replacing those of the mafia old guard, whom he had forced into submission. With the murders and bombings of 1992, he unleashed his most violent attack, killing former friends such as Salvo Lima and Ignazio Salvo, and old enemies such as the magistrates Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, among the few who had already realized how dangerous he was. It turned out to be a fatal mistake: the state, or what was left of it after the attacks in Palermo, at Capaci and Via D’Amelio, was forced to react as it never had before, and the mafia gangs had to face a counter-offensive on an unprecedented scale. Whether it was involved in negotiations with the state or not, the terrorist faction and the Corleone mafia was overwhelmed and routed. And aptly, it all started with the fall of the “boss of bosses” himself, in what was the first major arrest in a series beginning in January 1993. Grey areas Despite the various trials and acquittals, light has never been fully shed on the shadowy aspects of that arrest. However, even the most extreme conspiracy theorists admit that the end of Riina’s 25 years in hiding marked an important defeat for the mafia. Maybe it was to the benefit of a different mafia, less violent yet possibly more insidious, but nevertheless a defeat. It however came after a series of murders, plots and blackmail that left piles of bodies in its wake and an indelible mark on Italy’s history. The dramatic events of 1992, with the murders of Falcone and Borsellino, together with the “Tangentopoli” investigation into political corruption, also irrevocably changed the course of Italian politics. Nevertheless, ’u curtu’ believed himself to be a great man, and continued to see himself as a winner right to the end. In his last 25 years, spent in prison and court, his words and gestures expressed nothing but self-adulation, whether in his earliest trial appearances, where he challenged pentiti (mobsters who “repent” and decide to collaborate with the judges by becoming State witnesses) during courtroom confrontations (even though he came off worse on a regular basis), or in his invectives against those judges and “communists” who wanted to frame him at all costs. Also indicative of his high opinion of himself was his version of events, as recorded by hidden cameras that filmed his meetings with his elder son Giovanni, also serving a life sentence for mafia crimes. “You know that your dad will pull through; just remember that dad is out of this world,” he reassured him during a meeting in 2010. “I’m a phenomenon. You know I’m not normal, I’m not like everyone else, I’m different... In the future, when I am no longer here, you must say, and realize, that you have a father like none other on earth. Don’t imagine you can find one; there isn’t another, because I am exceptionally honest and fair”. Criminal background His children can give whatever version they want, but the story of the mafia led by Totò Riina is that of a criminal organiza-
"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 12
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
Sigonella USAF and Navy volunteers brighten up Nicolosi nursery and clean Etna Park Photo story by Alberto Lunetta
NICOLOSI, Sicily – On November 18, a group of NAS Sigonella USAF and Navy volunteers spent a morning in Nicolosi to beautify its Asilo Nido Comunale, the town’s public nursery as part of the ongoing NASSIG PAO COMREL program. Volunteers joined hands with some parents of the children to paint the railing and the external walls of the nursery. The special volunteer artist of the initiative was Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 2nd Class Ronald Garcia from NAVSUP Sigonella who created and painted a beautiful mural to make the aging nursery more inviting for children. On the same morning, Sigonella volunteers also supported “Meglio parco che sporco,” one of the largest environmental initiatives annually held by all the towns surrounding the Etna Volcano Park. Nicolosi mayor Dr. Angelo Pulvirenti attended both events and praised the American volunteers for giving back and strengthening the friendship with his community.
THE SIGNATURE
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
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Second US Navy P-8A Aircraft Joins Argentina's Submarine Search
Official U.S. Navy file photo of a P-8A Poseidon From U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command Public Affairs
NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- A second U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon multi-mission maritime aircraft will deploy to Bahia Blanca, Argentina, Nov. 19 to join an ongoing international search for the Argentinean Navy's submarine A.R.A. San Juan in Southern Atlantic waters. The aircraft and a crew of 21 personnel will depart Jacksonville, Fla., and are expected to arrive in Argentina the same day. One Navy P-8A aircraft is already in Argentina,
where it joined a NASA P-3 research aircraft already supporting the ongoing search efforts over the submarine's last known location. Additionally, the U.S. Navy's Undersea Rescue Command (URC), based in San Diego, Calif., is deploying two independent rescue systems that can be used to support underwater search and rescue missions, depending on various oceanic factors, including depth, floor conditions, currents and other safety considerations. U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) directed the deployment of the P-8A aircraft, underwater rescue equipment and associated personnel
to Argentina to support the country's request for international assistance aimed at locating the missing submarine and crew. The P-8A Poseidon is the Navy's newest maritime, patrol and reconnaissance aircraft and is configured with state-of-the-art sensors and communications equipment, allowing it to support a wide range of missions over large bodies of water, including sub-surface search-andrescue operations. It can reach an airspeed of 564 mph, has a ceiling of 41,000 feet and a range of 1,200 nautical miles with four hours on station, allowing it to loiter over search areas. In April, SOUTHCOM deployed a P-8A Poseidon to Galeo Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where it took part in an internationallysupported search for The Republic of Korea ship, Stella Daisy, which tragically sank in the Southern Atlantic, off the western coast of Africa. In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in October, P-8A Poseidon aircraft conducted overflight assessment missions, capturing images of conditions on the ground in Dominica to support U.S. foreign disaster assistance operations led by the U.S. Agency for International Development. SOUTHCOM is one of the nation's six geographically-focused unified commands with responsibility for U.S. military operations in the Caribbean, Central America and South America.
CNP Talks Sailor 2025 with Sailors in Rota and Naples From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs
WASHINGTON (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Personnel, Vice Adm. Robert Burke recently visited the U.S. Navy Sixth Fleet Area of Responsibility. During his visit to Rota, Spain and Naples, Italy, Burke spoke with Sailors during several All Hands Calls, highlighting Sailor 2025 initiatives and personnel changes to programs such as physical fitness tests and blended retirement. In Rota, Burke spoke with Sailors from two of the U.S. forward deployed destroyers, USS Ross (DDG 71) and USS Carney (DDG 64), as well as Sailors from various base and tenant commands, and in Naples, he had the opportunity to speak with base and tenant command Sailors. "For me, getting to the deck plates, talking with our Sailors about what we are doing in DC, at Naval Per-
sonnel Command to make Sailors' lives and their families' lives better is critical to ensuring they know we have their best interest in mind," said Burke. "I need everyone to understand that we are in the process of transforming our processes and systems. It is no longer business as usual." Burke highlighted Sailor 2025 programs and initiatives, and took a number of questions from Sailors about these efforts, in addition to addressing other personnel concerns. "Our Sailors are the foundation of everything we do in the Navy. We owe it to them and their families to provide them not just the
best warfighting systems, but the best personnel systems we can in order to make things such as pay or detailing more streamlined, efficient and user-friendly," said Burke. Burke also noted that by optimizing our processes, the U.S. Navy is better positioned to recruit, train and retain the force of tomorrow. "We are in the customer service business, and the more I know what is on a Sailor's mind, the more our Sailors share with me those things we need to look at and see if we can make improvements, the better we are as a Navy," said Burke. "That's why conducting All Hands Calls around the Fleet is important to me and my team. Communicating with
our Sailors, getting their feedback, it's a good thing." Sailor 2025 is comprised of nearly 45 initiatives to improve and modernize personnel management and training systems to more effectively recruit, develop, manage, reward, and retain the force of tomorrow. It is focused on empowering Sailors, updating policies, procedures, and operating systems, and providing the right training at the right time in the right way to ensure Sailors are ready for the Fleet. Sailor 2025 is organized into three main lines of effort, specifically Personnel System Modernization, Ready Relevant Learning and Career Readiness. For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www. facebook.com/usnavy, or http:// www.twitter.com/usnavy. For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit http://www. navy.mil/local/cnp/.
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NOVEMBER 24, 2017
MWR Sigonel
Old Dom
photos by Van
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
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lla Presents:
minion!
nessa Ogletree
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NOVEMBER 24, 2017
NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR SANTA'S HELPERS
Command, Department or Organization : Navy Marine-Corps Relief Society Date of Event: December 2 • Time of Event: 0815-1230 Point of Contact Name: Brittany Sadler • Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-4212 Point of Contact Email Address: Brittany.sadler@nmcrs.org Additional Information: Volunteers needed to help children in our community shop for the holiday! Volunteers will help children pick out and wrap gifts for their loved ones from our thrift shop inventory. The event will be held in the Compass Room on NAS 1. Please email Brittany. sadler@nmcrs.org to sign up. LOAs will be given for this event.
TEEN EMPLOYMENT ORIENTATION
Command: Child and Youth Programs Date of Event: November 30 • Time of Event: 1330-1530
NAS 1
Location of Event: Child Development Center Bldg. 314 NAS I Point of Contact Name: Chris McKibbin Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-3242 or 624-3732 Point of Contact Email Address: CYP_Sigonella@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: In conjunction with the Commander Navy Installations Command (CNIC), Child and Youth Programs is providing teen employment opportunities to work with Child and Youth Programs. The Program is open to US ID cards holders ages 14-18 and still in high school. - Get paid $7.25 per hour - Work up to 30 hours per week - Gain valuable work experience for their future Program will run from January 6 through March 15, 2018. If you have any questions contact the School Liaison Officer at 624-3732 or +39 335.42.5074, by e-mail at CYP_Sigonella@eu.navy.mil or visit the MWR website at www.sigmwr.com
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services
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
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
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
NAS 2
Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): . . . . . . . . . . . 1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): . 1800-2100
Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . 1800
Thursdays AA Meeting: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-1900
Sundays Catholic Mass: . . . . 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS):. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1045-1200
Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800-2000 Roman Catholic Mass NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0900 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon) - NAS I Chapel - . . . . . . . 1300 Non-Liturgical Protestant Service NAS II Chapel - . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1800
Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass: . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200
Protestant Service: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1330-1600
Weekly Traffic Report: Nov. 13 - Nov. 20, 2017
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.
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
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"ITALIAN NEWS" cont’d from Page 6 tion attacked from within by a boss from Corleone, who grew up with the sound of bombs in his ears. The first one he saw explode was in 1943, when his father was trying to extract gunpowder from an unexploded device left by the Americans. He ended up killing himself and his youngest son. Either way, after Riina had done away with the mafiosi from the “Palermo faction”, he focused his efforts on eliminating representatives of the state in Sicily. The “slaughter” between 1979 and 1983 of Sicily’s politicians, magistrates and law enforcement officers are without precedent in any Western country. These actions unsettled other mafiosi, some of whom continue to question the real motives behind the killing of prefect Carlo Alberto della Chiesa, who was assassinated before he could take any concrete action, and whose biggest obstacles were within the state, not the mafia. But neither the autobiographical notes given in 2013 to a fellow inmate, nor the recordings from bugs hidden in the prison yard, provide any explanations. It seems Riina was driven solely by self-exaltation, with plans for new projects to kill “persecutory magistrates”, and recriminations against bosses less “honest” and intelligent than him. A case in point was the fugitive Matteo Messina Denaro, whom he accused of thinking only of himself and of abandoning his associates in prison. Right to the end, he wanted to come across as a master of cunning. Although perhaps aware (but never admitting) that he was a small cog in a much larger mechanism, he was satisfied with the role he had carved out for himself. It was already more than a “shorty” like Totò Riina could have hoped for.
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Nutella Changed Its Recipe and Fans Are Not Happy Story by https://relevantmagazine.com
Cult classic Nutella announced on Facebookand confirmed on Twitter that it was “fine tuning” its famous recipe to add more powdered milk that increased the amount of sugar in the hazelnut spread. Germany’s Hamburg Consumer Protection Center was the first to notice that something had changed in the recipe because of the lighter color. According to the group, the skimmed milk powder content went from 7.5 percent to 8.7 percent, and cocoa’s proportion decreased. “Cocoa has slipped back in the list of ingredients,” the group told CNN. “As the color of the new Nutella is lighter, we assume that more milk powder was added at the expense of cocoa.” The announcement wasn’t exactly met with enthusiasm. Fans around the world raged at the change, especially since the addition of more milk made the spread lighter, which also means less cocoa in it. In the U.S., according to a statement from Nutella recently released, “the content of hazelnuts, cocoa, sugar and palm oil remains unchanged. The fine-tuning consists of substituting whey powder with an equivalent quantity (2.1g/100g total product) of milk powder (from 6.6% to 8.7% of total product). This enables us to improve the overall quality of the milk content and to ensure a better consistency of our unique taste over time. That’s all. Our recipe contains 7 simple ingredients, with no colors or preservatives. The nutritional values remain practically unchanged.”
NOVEMBER 24, 2017
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NOVEMBER 24, 2017
GAMEZONE
Thanksgiving (U.S.)
RELATIVES REUNION SQUASH STUFFING SWEET POTATO THURSDAY TRADITION TRAVEL TURKEY WAMPANOAG YAMS
MEDIUM
GATHERING GRAVY HARVEST HOLIDAY LONG WEEKEND MASHED POTATOES MEAL NOVEMBER PARADE PILGRIMS PLYMOUTH PUMPKIN PIE
EASY
ANNUAL AUTUMN CELEBRATION CORN CRANBERRY FAMILY FEAST FESTIVAL FOOD FOOTBALL FRIENDS
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining 26 letters spell a popular Thanksgiving Day event.
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"ICE" continued from Page 3 exception of my children, this is the first time I have been accused of not caring for the people I am responsible for. I respect you for leaving your name with your comment. However, as a professional courtesy I won't publish your name since my wife said if I am mean in my ICE responses I will have to sleep on the couch and I don't like sleeping on the couch. I'm sorry to hear you are not enjoying your tour at Sigonella. Sicily is very different from America in many ways and your overseas experience is entirely what you make of it. This is my second overseas tour and while both have had their challenges I try to make the best of things and stay positive. I am rather flattered that you believe I have the power to change the infrastructure of a foreign country, but that is not true. I drive the roads from NAS 1 to NAS 2 two to four times a day-five to seven days a week-and I know there are many pot holes. I also know if you drive the speed limit (30kph on SP105 and SP106) it takes longer than ten minutes going the shorter route, so your statement about driving the speed limit seems to be inaccurate. I timed my drive between the bases taking the SS417 route on two recent trips, and it took me 13 minutes and 33 seconds one day and 12 minutes and 14 seconds the next day. If it is taking you over 30 minutes using that route then perhaps you are taking a wrong turn somewhere? I recall the forum where you claim I stated the roads won't get fixed due to "taxpayers" not living in the area. Once again your statement is inaccurate since that is not actually what I said. Sicily has a high unemployment rate at the moment and is struggling with a large influx of re-
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fugees from northern Africa. Due to these and other concerns a rural farm road with few residents isn't high on their list of priorities. I have asked local authorities for assistance but, as of now, no action has been taken. You claim to have a long list of issues that I ignore or do nothing about, yet, the one issue you bring up is something I have no direct or indirect control over. You say your voice is ignored, but, you have made no attempt to discuss this or any other issue with me or other members of Sigonella leadership. It is disappointing that you, as a Chief Petty Officer, don’t know how to get in contact with 6th Fleet since they are directly in your organization’s chain of command. . In regards to CNIC you are in luck, as I have already showed VADM Jackson condition of the road in question. I intentionally drove her and my boss RADM Williamson on the SP106 during their recent visit and told them it was a morale and safety issue. I also contacted the ODC (Office of Defense Cooperation) at the Embassy to see if they can get something done via diplomatic channels. I don't tell the population of Sigonella everything I do in regards to trying to improve the roads so as not to get peoples’ hopes up in case nothing happens. If I tell people that the road will be fixed and then it doesn't happen I will look like an even bigger jerk than you make me out to be. Thank you for noticing my efforts at keeping the base clean. I have lot of pride in Sigonella and receive many compliments on the appearance of our facilities. If you wish to discuss base cleanliness, road conditions, or any other concern my office is in Building 618, second floor, room 119.
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Contributions of American Indians to the U.S. Navy: Serving the United States since its birth
American Indian Sailors aboard a Navy LST (landing ship, tank). Date of the photo is unknown. NHHC Photo Archives. From Navy History and Heritage Command
Since 1776, when General George Washington began enlisting American Indians for his Army, Navy, and Marines, American Indians have contributed significantly to the defense of our Nation. During the Civil War, 20,000 American Indians served with Union Forces both at sea and on the land. During World War I, although ineligible for the draft, 15,000 American Indians volunteered to fight in the Great War. Although American Indians have been an integral part of our country long before its birth, American Indian veterans weren’t awarded citizenship and voting rights until 1919. In 1924, voting rights were extended to all American Indians after the Snyder Act was passed. In World War II, 44,000 fought with distinction including 1,910 in the Navy and 874 in the Marines. For the Navy, two Oklahoma Cherokees distinguished themselves. Rear Admiral Joseph J. “Jocko” Clark commanded aircraft carriers and later a task force. Commander Ernest E. Evans was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle off Samar, Philippines. Between 10,000 and 15,000 American Indians fought in the Korean War and more than 42,000 during Vietnam. In 1966, South Carolina Cherokee Boatswain’s Mate 1st Class James E. Williams, while serving at South Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, killed an unknown number of enemy forces while destroying 65 vessels and disrupting an enemy logistic operation. Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the three-hour battle against Viet Cong guerrillas with the two riverine patrol boats he commanded. In the early 1970s, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo Zumwalt sought to reduce racism and sexism in both the Navy and Marine Corps with Z-Gram #66 (Equal Opportunity) which benefited American Indians im-
mensely. Rear Admiral Michael L. Holmes and Commander John B. Herrington are notable examples of the new opportunities for American Indians as a result of Zumwalt’s Z-Gram. Holmes served 32 years as a naval aviator, and Herrington flew for the Navy and later NASA, becoming the first enrolled member of an American Indian tribe to fly in space. As of March 2012, active duty American Indian military members numbered 22,248, with over half, 13,511, in the Navy. More than 160,000 American Indians call themselves veterans today. Approximately, 15,000 active duty, reserve and civilian members of the Navy’s total force declare themselves American Indian or Alaska native. In the 21st century the Navy’s leadership remains strongly committed to diversity.
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