NAVIFOR Force Master Chief Visits NCTS PAGE 4
U.S. Bans Imports of Iranian Rugs and Food PAGE 5
USAF Airmen Volunteer at Acireale Shelter
N A S SIG O N E L L A
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JULY 13, 2018
Vol. 35 No. 27
75th Anniversary of Operation Husky
Inside on Pages 8-9 GELA, Sicily (July 10, 2018) A P-8A Poseidon assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 10 flies over the Gela cemetery during a ceremony to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Operation Husky. The Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky, was a major large-scale World War II amphibious and airborne operation in which the Allies liberated the island of Sicily from the Axis Powers. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher Gordon)
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JULY 13, 2018
Direct Line
Joshua Burkhard, NAS Sigonella Fitness Director
My name is Joshua Burkhard and I am the Fitness Coordinator at the NAS I & NAS II Fitness Centers. I have had the great opportunity of serving the U.S. Navy since 2008 as a Fit Boss with Strike Group 3 and several other installations worldwide. The one thing that they all have in common is “summer fun.” In case you didn’t know it yet, summer has arrived here in Sicily. We are all excited about our trips to new places or spending time at the beach; however, for those who exercise regularly outdoors, the temperatures can pose a bit of a challenge. The Navy uses a flag system to help sailors stay informed of flag conditions—which helps indicate how hot is too hot to exercise outside. Here is what each color represents: yellow (85-87.9F/29-31C), red (88-89.9F/3132C) and black (90F and up/32C and up). When yellow and red flags are flying, you may need to reevaluate your outdoor workout intensity and duration. When a black flag is flying, outdoor physical training and strenu-
ous exercise is typically suspended for all personnel. For information on the current flag conditions, visit www.usnhsigonellaheatstress.com. A black flag status doesn’t mean you have to stop exercising, only that you may need to rethink where you’re going to do it. This should be an easy choice at NAS Sigonella since all authorized personnel have access to two fitness centers. So when the outdoor conditions become unsafe or you’re just looking for diversity in your workout program, MWR Fitness is here for you! Each facility offers some great conditioning opportunities. Working out indoors means you have access to the Fitness Center equipment, including ellipticals, upright bikes, steppers, rope climbing machines, treadmills, and free weights. It also gives you a great opportunity to gain a workout partner—someone who can help correct your form, challenge you, and keep you safe during your workouts. Another great indoor workout option is attending MWR Fitness De-
partment classes. On the calendar for July we offer: Total Body Training, Indoor Cycling, H.I.I.T Circuit, Yoga, Core Assault, Functional Fitness, and NOFFS Regeneration. Going to classes is also a great way to meet new people and even find a new workout partner. Make sure to visit www.navymwrsigonella.com to know where and when those classes are held each week. Just because you cannot exercise outside doesn’t mean you have to turn the heat down on your workouts! Hydration goes hand-in-hand with exercising. This is one of the most overlooked parts of training but also one of the most important, especially during the summer. If you do not hydrate properly, it can lead to major health concerns that can impact your workouts and lead to some major physical issues such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and the deadliest of all—heat stroke! Here are some simple summer hydrating workout tips: drink 16-24 ounces or 500-750 milliliters of water before your workout and four
ounces or 120 milliliters every 15-20 minutes during your workout. When you complete your workout, try to drink at least 24 ounces or 750 milliliters of water. Following these simple guidelines should help you improve your performance and keep you from experiencing heat related illness. Remember to be informed of the flag conditions, stay hydrated, and move your workouts indoors if necessary to stay fit, stay healthy, stay Navy!
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The community is strongly encouraged to leave contact information when submitting comments. This ensures that a response will come directly to you. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Sug-
gestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. Anonymous comments will be published only if they benefit the greater community at large. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publicly recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard
those comments/suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Interactive Customer Evaluation Comment Regarding E-4 and Below Housing:
Could you please speak to the Housing Director about the possibility of allowing E-4 over four years of service to live out on the economy? I ask this because the building managers have told me that the percentage has to be 95% or higher, but it never is. My problem with this is that many times there a lots of Marines, Operators, etc. who jam pack the dorms, lounges, and laundry areas. When they stay for weeks or days at a time it feels like the dorms are at 110% yet I can’t move out. Why they are even allowed in my residence? I feel like I have the possibility of having a different roommate whenever the “mission” takes priority over my morale. Why not give E-4 with over four years of service the option to move out and free up space and make a special section for these war fighters. Thanks. Aim high!
Response:
Thank you for your comment, for reference below is part of the Navy CNIC and OPNAV instruction by which NAS Sigonella sets our local policy. Per CNIC 1103.5 policy, the Navy must house on base all unaccompanied E1-E4 Sailors with less than four years of service, and when inventory allows, as many E-4 Sailors with more than four years of service as possible. In addition, for the purposes of BAH entitlement, “full utilization” of UH inventory is defined in the policy as being 95% occupancy of available and online beds. If and when that cap is met, an E-4 service member with more than four years of service would be permitted to collect BAH and live out on the economy. With regard to the temporary housing of Marines and other units within Unaccompanied Housing (UH), CNIC housing policy also dictates that in an event of declared military necessity, the housing of an individual or unit will be required when circumstances involve mission accomplishment, contingency operations, training, or maintenance of a disciplined force. Every effort will be made to provide adequate accommodations to members as a result of military necessity. Military necessity cannot be declared for the sole purpose of avoiding the payment of appropriate housing allowances. We did allow the Marines to stay at building 623 for two weeks due to the fumigation of their own barracks. We have not had any group larger than that in the last year; the UH staff actually doubled and tripled up rooms to accommodate them. Part of our mission here at Sigonella is to house contingencies, however this particular instance is not an everyday occurrence. I hope this answers your questions. If you need any further information, you can contact Peter Faulk, the installation Housing Director at peter.faulk@ eu.navy.mil.
Comment Regarding Galley Request:
Ciao Boss, can the Galley have coffee syrup on the table? I love that stuff. It is made by Autocrat. Thanks. Also, can the Galley serve the frozen coffee drink more often?
Response:
I appreciate the opportunity to respond to your inquiry about options at the Galley. In accordance with the NAVSUP P486, all galley provisions must be ordered through the prime vendor. Unfortunately, the frozen coffee and coffee syrup you reference are not available in the prime vendor catalog. If you have any additional inquiries regarding the Galley, please contact the Food Service Officer, CWO3 Francisco Marigundon, at francisco.marigundon@eu.navy.mil or 624-5738 (+39-095-56-5738).
Comment Regarding Backpack Uniform Regulations:
To whom this may concern, could someone please clarify the proper wearing of backpacks with Navy Service Uniforms? At my last command, USS Always Sail, it was put out that backpacks should not be worn with NSUs, but here in Sigonella I always see them being worn. Is there a different rule being in Europe? I want to make sure I am not unsat. Thanks.
Response:
Thank you for your comment asking for clarification of the proper wearing of backpacks while wearing the Navy Service Uniform (NSU). Yes, here at NAS Sigonella, backpacks are authorized for wear with NSUs. Chapter 2, Section 1 of the U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations states “Backpacks may be worn over either the left shoulder or both shoulders while wearing service and working uniforms. Authorized colors of backpacks include black, navy blue, and the matching NWU Type I, Type II, and Type III pattern. The matching NWU pattern backpacks are only authorized for wear with the applicable NWU Type I, II or III uniform. No personal ornamentation shall be attached on or to the backpack.” In the future, if you have any further questions regarding Navy Uniform Regulations, please give your chain of command an opportunity to address your concerns.
Comment Regarding BZ for MWR Aquatics Manager:
I would like to say BZ to the MWR Aquatics Manager, Beth Sweely. I have had the privilege of working alongside Beth in MWR for almost three years, "ICE" continued on Page 3
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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA
Name: Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Thomas Justin Whitman Department: U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Hometown: Rosman, North Carolina Having a baby is one of the most important moments in many peoples’ lives, and it takes highly skilled medical professionals like Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Thomas Justin Whitman to ensure that moment goes as smoothly and safely as possible.
Whitman works in the multiservice ward at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella where he helps deliver babies and aids same-day procedure patients. “A great part of the job is all of the hands-on training; we get more handson training than most places in the hospital,” said Whitman. “But training and helping out the new Sailors that come in is my favorite.” Additionally, Whitman is the training petty officer, safety petty officer, and customer service representative
"ICE" continued from Page 2 and the effort and dedication that she has constantly put forth to manage two aquatics facilities, especially during summer recreation swim and swim lessons, is admirable. She is a person who truly cares for her staff, patrons, and that her program does well. Beth handles difficult situations with ease, and does her best to accommodate as many people as possible, while still maintaining safety and standards. I have witnessed her interact with numerous patrons of all ages, and she definitely "dazzles" with her customer service. My family and I frequent the pool during the summer, and it has always been clean and well maintained on our visits. Well done Beth, and all of the aquatics staff. MWR and Sigonella are both lucky to have you! Sincerely, Erin South
Response:
Ms. South, Thank you so much for taking the time to express your appreciation for Beth Sweely and her aquatics staff. They work hard every day to make sure we can provide high quality services and facilities for our patrons. It is always great to receive kind feedback!
Comment Regarding MWR Staff Customer Service:
I would like to take a moment of your time to express my displeasure with a member of the MWR staff. My daughter, who just graduated from high school, was seeking applications for jobs on base. The person assisting her was not very helpful. I decided that I would return the applications and ex-
for the ward. Outside of the ward, he is a Basic Life Support (BLS) course instructor and a member of the color guard. As a member of the color guard, Whitman attended a ceremony commemorating the 75th anniversary of Operation Husky in Ponte Dirillo. The Allied invasion of Sicily, codenamed Operation Husky, was a major largescale World War II amphibious and airborne operation in which the Allies liberated the island of Sicily from the Axis Powers. This ceremony held even more significance to Whitman since his grandfather participated in Operation Husky as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division. “It felt good; I was extremely proud knowing my grandfather could have been in that exact area fighting Nazis,” said Whitman. “It’s very surreal.” On top of his numerous collateral duties, Whitman enjoys volunteering with the Junior Enlisted Association or any other type of volunteer work offered to him. He said if there is any type of volunteer work he can participant in, he usually will. Outside of work, Whitman can be found at the beach, swimming, and enjoying Sicily’s beautiful climate. “Living here in Sigonella, my favorite thing is most definitely the travel,” said Whitman. “It’s so easy and super cheap!”
perience an interaction with this person myself. I discovered my daughter was accurate in relating her situation. I submitted the applications only to be met with stiff resistance. I was told my daughter requires a license to work at the CDC and must be 21 to work at the bowling alley. I know this is not accurate because we both know people on a personal level who do not have driver's licenses and are not 21, working at these locations, and discussed this fact with her but she continued to resist. The individual only conceded when another MWR staff member corrected her and told us that you only need a license to work at one of the CDC locations, and she didn't need to be 21 to work at the bowling alley, unless serving alcohol. Sincerely, Jon Smith
Response:
I apologize if you and your daughter felt you did not receive satisfactory customer service from the MWR Personnel staff. The information related to being at least 21 to work at the bowling center was outdated, as the old policy used to be 21 years of age. The information related to a driver's license was posted on the announcement but exceptions are made, which is why the senior personnel specialist engaged in the conversation to assist with the matter. It is my understanding your daughter's application was accepted for both positions and the staff made a copy of her application package to assist in the process so she did not have to return to the office. Your concerns were discussed with the HR staff and your comments will help them be more receptive to our customers. If you would like to discuss this further please do not hesitate to contact Courtney Silvestre, the Fleet Readiness Director at courtney.silvestre@eu.navy.mil or 624-0503.
Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Patrick J. Moran Command Master Chief CMDCM Nancy Estrada EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Janine Scianna janine.scianna@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil Editor MCC Jessica Vargas Jessica.Vargas@eu.navy.mil 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 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday preceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.
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Naval Information Forces Force Master Chief Visits Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Sicily By IT2 Benjamin Larkin Technical Support Communications Watch Officer
SIGONELLA, Sicily (NNS) -- Naval Information Forces (NAVIFOR) Force Master Chief (FORCM) David B. Carter visited Sailors at Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station (NCTS) Sicily on June 29 and June 30, as part of an introductory tour to each of the Information Warfare commands as he takes on his new leadership role. Carter toured NCTS facilities including the Technical Control Facility (TCF), Local Network Service Center, Technical Support Communications Station (TSCOMM), and Niscemi Naval Radio Transmitter Facility. He hosted meetings with TCF Sailors to discuss training objectives and to communicate his vision for Sailor 2025. He emphasized that “Ready, Relevant Learning” that is spread out through the course of a Sailor’s career will benefit both the Sailor and the Navy. During a town hall at TSCOMM, he discussed
the challenges that the U.S. Navy faces with growing Information Warfare capabilities of adversarial countries. “Our greatest challenge is simply staying ahead of these peer and near-peer countries,” said Carter. “A couple of them have advanced their Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) away from Cold War methods and into the cyber and remote access realms.” With NCTS Sicily’s central location in the Mediterranean Sea, it is strategically placed to support subsurface, surface, and satellite communications covering the most important maritime shipping routes for access to both Europe and the Middle East. The daily communications support they provide to deployed warfighters allows them to ensure freedom of navigation movements through air and sea. Carter later met with site leadership and hosted a town hall with NCTS Sicily’s chief petty officers to give them insight into what the Senior and Master
Naval Information Forces Force Master Chief David Carter (Photo by ET2 Devon Blair)
Naval Information Forces Force Master Chief David Carter meets with NCTS Operations Department Sailors. (Photo by ET2 Devon Blair)
Chief selection boards are looking for to bring our Sailors and the Navy into the future. At the end of Force Master Chief Carter’s visit to NCTS Sicily, he told Command Master Chief Worthen that, “NCTS definitely has a family atmosphere from bottom up. You have a good thing going here.” Worthen shared how the visit went by saying, “The Sailors at NCTS showcased their technical knowledge while giving FORCM Carter a tour of our command and showing how important NCTS Sicily is to the fleet.” NCTS Sicily reports to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, the Navy component command to U.S. Strategic Command and U.S. Cyber Command, to provide secure and reliable telecommunications in EUCOM, AFRICOM, and CENTCOM theaters of operation. The command represents a long history of superior command and control to a vital region of the world.
JULY 13, 2018
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Iranian Carpets, Food Banned Again in U.S. Effective August By Robert Szostek U.S. Army Customs Agency - Europe Public Affairs Officer
WIESBADEN, Germany - President Trump declared in May that the U.S. was leaving the nuclear accord between Iran and leading world powers, and would restore the sanctions that were discontinued under the 2015 agreement. For U.S. personnel stationed overseas, this means exports of Iranian carpets and food to the United States will again become illegal on Aug. 6. However, people with expensive items bought while the sanctions were not in effect are in luck. “If you can prove you owned an item outside Iran while sanctions were not in effect, you'll be able to import it into the United States,” explained Tim Sellman, director of the USEUCOM Customs Executive Agency. Also, Persian-style carpets made in other Middle Eastern countries are not affected by the embargo. Only ones made in Iran will be banned. Iranian products are generally banned but a special dispensation still allows travelers and household goods shippers to send Iranian foods, carpets, rugs and tapestries to the Unit-
ed States until Aug. 6, 2018. Until Aug. 6, “the only condition a shipper must fulfill is that carpets, wall hangings, or tapestries must be for the shipper’s personal use. They may not be for resale,” Sellman said. Many foods are banned from importation to the United States to prevent infestations of foreign pests and Iranian products are no exception. Meat products, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables are of special concern. However, Sellman explained there are no agricultural restrictions on the Iranian products commonly available in Europe such as dried fruits, nuts, olives, spices (e.g. saffron), raisins, tea, and herbs. Iranian products are not banned in Europe, Sellman continued, and will still be openly for sale after the U.S. sanctions are restored. But military customs offices in Europe have been instructed to start enforcing the ban again on Aug. 6 and will look out for Iranian products in household goods and unaccompanied baggage shipments. Full details of the latest sanction regulations are available online at https://help.cbp. gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/35/~/importinggoods-of-iranian-origin
Iranian rugs such as this one will no longer be able to be imported into the U.S. starting August 6th. (stock photo)
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Air Force Volunteers Lend a Helping Hand to the Casa del Sollievo Shelter in Acireale By Alberto Lunetta
ACIREALE, Sicily – Air Force volunteers visited the Casa del Sollievo shelter at the Church of St. Camillus de Lellis in Acireale on July 6. Casa del Sollievo is a charity dedicated to caring for the sick and the poor. The Airmen took on the July heat to help the shelter’s members, priests, brothers, and sisters prepare for the annual festival honoring St. Camillius de Lellis (1550-1614), the Founder and Patron of the Order. Sigonella volunteers cleaned, decorated, and moved furniture around to spruce up the shelter for this important religious event drawing about 1,500 pilgrims to Acireale every year. They also served lunch to the shelter’s guests. Brother Carlo Mangione, the director of the shelter, praised and thanked the volunteers for their support. He also said this year’s festival, scheduled for July 14, would be even more meaningful because its preparation was shared with the brothers and sisters of Sigonella. The Camillians (Order of the Ministers of the Sick) own and operate large hospitals in major cities, mobile clinics in remote and inhospitable locations, and everything in between. In addition to health centers, the disaster relief arm of the Order of St. Camillus, CADIS, responds to serve those affected by manmade and natural disasters worldwide.
Saint Rosalia Festival to be Held in Palermo Tomorrow By Alberto Lunetta
“Nun mi cuntari li tri ghiorna d’u fistinu.” This traditional Sicilian idiom literally means “don’t tell me about the three-day festival (honoring Saint Rosalia),” or in other words: “don’t tell me what everybody already knows.” This expression is proof of the immense popularity that this festival has been enjoying in Palermo since ancient times. This year marks the 394th edition of this spectacular religious event drawing thousands among pilgrims and tourists. The theme of this edition will be “Palermo Bambina” (Palermo Child) which means that many events will be focused on children. During a press conference, Palermo Mayor Leoluca Orlando explained that children are a symbol of hope for the future and that this year’s festival, which falls during the year marking the city as the 2018 “Italian Capital of Culture,” wants to send a powerful message to the world about stepping up and protecting children and also by welcoming migrant children seeking asylum. Patrick Brydone, a Scottish traveler who toured southern Italy in the 18th century, recorded one of the most memorable accounts of the Saint Rosalia Festival. In his 1773 book titled A Tour though Sicily and Malta, he gives a vivid description of the chariot 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 amphitheater, 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.” Today, thanks to modern technology, the festival is even more spectacular than it used to be in the past. This year, the festino or “little festival” (not indicative of its true size) celebrates its 393rd anniversary. During the festival, which runs from July 10 through 14, the city turns into a vivid stage featuring parades, concerts, shows, fireworks, food stalls, and religious processions. Yet, the festino, which is among the oldest
"ITALIAN NEWS" continued on Page 14
USAF service member volunteers help set up decorations for the upcoming San Camillo festival in Acireale, an important religious event drawing about 1,500 pilgrims annually. (Photo by Alberto Lunetta)
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DoD Personnel Assisted in Thai Cave Rescue Operations By Lisa Ferdinando DoD News, Defense Media Activity
WASHINGTON -- Defense Department personnel assisted in the rescue operations in Thailand that evacuated all 12 boys and their coach from a flooded cave system, the director of defense press operations said. The DoD effort consisted of 42 deployed military personnel and one member from the Joint U.S. Military Advisory Group Thailand, Army Col. Rob Manning told reporters at the Pentagon. “Coordination and interaction with Thai military, Thai government, and other multinational civilians and government entities was extremely positive and effective,” he said. U.S. personnel staged equipment and prepared the first three chambers of the cave system for safe passage, he said. They assisted in transporting the evacuees through the final cham-
bers of the cave system, and provided medical personnel and other technical assistance to the rescue efforts, he added. Multinational Rescue Effort The soccer team and their coach entered the Tham Luang cave in Chiang Rai province in northern Thailand on June 23 and were trapped by floodwaters. All 12 boys and their coach were eventually rescued during the threeday operation, more than two weeks after initially becoming trapped. “We were happy to support the multinational rescue effort,” Manning said. Manning also paid tribute to former Thai Navy SEAL Saman Kunan, who died after delivering oxygen tanks in the cave. “The death of the former Thai Navy SEAL illustrates the difficulty of this rescue,” Manning said. “His sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
Airmen from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command meet with Thai military officials and a Thai engineering company in Chiang Rai, Thailand, to advise and assist in operation to rescue members of a soccer team and their coach, June 30, 2018. The United States sent a search and rescue team to the Tham Luang cave in northern Thailand at the request of the Thai government to assist in the rescue mission. (Air Force photo by Capt. Jessica Tait.)
Navy Reestablishes Sailor Early Return-to-Sea Policy
The aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), right, conducts a replenishment-at-sea with the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO 187). John C. Stennis is underway with the ships and squadrons of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3 conducting a group sail training in preparation for its next scheduled deployment. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class David A. Brandenburg/Released) From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs
MILLINGTON, Tenn. (NNS) -- In an effort to fill critical billets at sea, the Navy announced June 27 that it has increased detailers' authority to transfer Sailors from their shore duty assignment earlier than their projected rotation date (PRD). Announced in NAVADMIN 156/18,
the Sailor Early Return to Sea (SERTS) policy enables enlisted rating detailers to begin filling high-priority E4 - E9 sea duty billets by using an increased distribution authority. "Navy Personnel Command already has a number of programs and policies that provide Sailors an opportunity to volunteer to return to sea duty early," said Capt. Alonza Ross, director, NPC
Enlisted Distribution Division, Career Management Department. "A number of these programs provide incentives such as money or C-WAY deferment." "When the available number of Sailors for a key rate or with critical skillsNavy Enlisted Classification Codes - NECs- isn't available due to any number of reasons, the detailers will use the plus or minus six-month transfer window," said Ross. "In those cases, where the transferring population just isn't there, NPC will use the SERTS program to identify Sailors who can be moved back to sea duty early to help address readiness issues in the Fleet." Factors that will be considered as to whether a Sailor is eligible for SERTS are: * Length of time on shore * Current or frocked paygrade * Fleet experience * NECs held * Types of previous sea duty * Remaining obligated service Sailors must have completed at least 18-23 months of shore duty, and will not transfer until they have at least
completed 24 months on shore. Further, the impact on a Sailor's shore duty command will be balanced against atsea priorities. Sailors in special program billets such as recruit division commanders, recruiters, brig duty, instructors and special warfare operators will not be considered for SERTS. Nuclear-trained Sailors will continue to be detailed according to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. In addition to filling billets at their current pay grade, SERTS candidates may be selected to fill vacant requirements within their pay band: supervisor (E7-E9), journeyman (E5-E6), and apprentice (E1-E4). For example, E8s and E9s may be chosen to fill vacant E7 and E8 requirements. Upon selection, the Navy Personnel Command will notify the Sailor and the Sailor's current command of the possible transfer. Sailors and their command may submit an adverse impact statement within 15 days of notification. For more information, read the NAVADMIN at www.npc.navy.mil.
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Ponte Dirillo and Operatio
Story by IT2 Benjamin Larkin Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Photos by MC2 Christopher Gordon NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
GELA, Sicily – July 10, 2018. Seventy five years ago British, Canadian, and American service members commenced Operation Husky and initiated the Italian Campaign of World War II, a conflict lasting more than a month and costing more than 14,000 lives from both sides. To mark this significant historical milestone, the Mayor of Gela, Domenico Messinese, joined Vice Adm. Lisa Franchetti, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet and Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Cmdr. Manny Cordero, commanding officer of Naval Computer and Telecommunications
Station (NCTS) Sicily, Retired British Army Major Alan Batty, Retired U.S. Army Colonel Bruce G. Clarke, and officials from the Sicilian towns of Niscemi and Gela to participate in ceremonies at the Ponte Dirillo landing site and in the city of Gela. Sailors and civilians of NCTS and NAS Sigonella gathered in remembrance of the 39 World War II service members from the 82nd Airborne Division who lost their lives fighting off over half a dozen German Tiger tanks and an entire German battalion of infantry near Ponte Dirillo, Sicily, from July 10 to 12, 1943. The success of Operation Husky was due in large part to efforts by the 82nd Airborne Division. On that hot day in July, the 82nd Airborne Division forced German and Italian forces to fight on two fronts—an amphibious assault along the coast, and over 12,000 paratroopers who landed behind enemy lines. Of these paratroopers, the men of the 1st Battalion of the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, were blown off course by high winds during a night landing on July 10. Landing among three German pillboxes near Ponte Dirillo, these brave soldiers gave forth heroic effort, forming small groups to wreak havoc on the German and Italian forces, losing 39 men during the heavy nighttime fighting, but ultimately causing the enemy to retreat. Survivors of the battle recounted how the men were led into action by Lt. Col. Arthur Gorham, amidst the German pillboxes and infantry. As the morning of July 11 approached, Gorham’s forces were surrounded by ten Tiger tanks and additional German infantry. As the assault intensified, Gorham bolstered up his men to keep the fight going. Gorham later fell in battle while leading his men against another German tank, however inspired his indomitable spirit, the remnants of his division fought on. For his valiant efforts, Gorham was posthumously awarded two Distinguished Service Crosses, the United States’ second highest award for bravery. The Master of Ceremonies, Lt. Ronald R. Fall, spoke about the importance of both Operation Husky and the battle at Ponte Dirillo. “Operation Husky was the largest amphibious operation of World War II in terms of the size of the landing zone and number of divisions put ashore on that first day of the invasion of Sicily. Its significance in relieving the pressure of forces on the Western Front by German soldiers cannot be overlooked.” Today there is a memorial plaque at the site of the Ponte Dirillo battle listing the 39 service members who gave their lives that day. The plaque and the
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on Husky, 75 Years Later site are maintained by Cristoforo Ventura, who was a child during Operation Husky. Retired U.S. Army Col. Bruce G. Clarke, the son of Lt. Col. Arthur Gorham, spoke about his father’s life and sacrifice during the ceremony. “I speak to you not only as a former warrior myself, but as the son of a true warrior. My father gave his life while leading his paratroopers against a determined foe at the beginning of the effort to rid Italy and Europe of the scourge of Fascism's two evil dictatorships.” “In this climate, it seems like we need to be reminded of what Winston Churchill said in 1940 before the United States entered World War II: "Victory at all cost. Victory in spite of all terror. Victory no matter how long and how hard the road may be; for without victory there is no survival.” After Clarke’s remarks, Lt. Col. Kurt Cyr of the 173rd Airborne read aloud the names of the fallen soldiers until all 39 were accounted for. This Last Roll Call is a long held tradition to pay tribute to fallen soldiers and sailors by their comrades and those that serve after them. The ceremony concluded with the laying of the memorial wreaths at the base of the plaque as Taps was played. Franchetti, Cordero, and Messinese all gave Ventura plaques to recognize his dedication to maintaining the Ponte Dirillo site and memorial museum attached to his house, ensuring that local residents and visitors alike will never forget the importance of the battle and liberation of the Sicilian people during Operation Husky. The commemoration continued later in the day at the Gela cemetery. The Mayor of Gela, Domenico Messinese, remarked on the nature of war, "The blood of the thousands of human beings that was shed in those days in Gela has taught us a lesson: in war there are no winners or losers. War’s brutality still does not seem to educate the powerful of the earth and convince them of its uselessness; convince them of the fact that everyone is a victim of the war." Vice Adm. Lisa M. Franchetti spoke about the partnerships formed following the war. “Today, Italy and the U.S., along with our NATO allies and partners, remain committed to the stability, security, and economic prosperity of Europe. It is through the strength of our alliances and partnerships that we are able to use our collective power for peace.”
As a last tribute to the lives of those sacrificed on that fateful day in 1943, Commander, Task Force 67 conducted a flyover of one of their P-8A aircraft to end the day’s events. Although this year marks a milestone anniversary of Operation Husky, ceremonies at Ponte Dirillo and Gela have been organized every year since 2006 in coordination with the Kiwanis Club. This year, Kiwanis Club President Maurizio Gallenti and Dr. Giuseppe Abbate, the primary Kiwanis organizer for the annual ceremonies, conducted a wreath laying ceremony on July 9 at the Gela seafront memorial. NCTS Sicily reports to U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, the Navy component command to U.S. Strategic Command and U.S. Cyber Command, to provide secure and reliable telecommunications in EUCOM, AFRICOM, and CENTCOM theaters of operation. The command represents a long history of superior command and control to a vital region of the world.
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NAS SIGONELLA COMMUNITY PAGE All Hands News Bulletin:
HAZMAT COORDINATOR MEETING
Command, Department or Organization: NAVSUP FLCSI Sigonella Location of Event: PWD Classroom 1st Floor Date of Event: 18Jul2018 Time of Event: 1300 - 1400 Point of Contact Name: LS1 Rodriguez, David Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-6761 Point of Contact Email Address: david.rodriguez2@eu.navy.mil Additional Information: All Hazmat Coordinators ae required to attend this training, the topics will be Shelf Life Expiration at the KLOC, Shelf Life Expiration in the warehouse, and Dead Stock.
SIGONELLA FCPOA MENTORSHIP FAIR 2.0
Command, Department or Organization: Sigonella FCPOA Date of Event: 20 JUL 2018 Location of Event: NAS II TURF FIELD Time of Event: 1000 - 1400 Point of Contact Name: IT1 Krystal Landrovediaz, LS1 Amber Blanco, MA1 Provost Point of Contact Phone Number: DSN: 314-624-6140 / 5804/ 5047 Point of Contact Email Address: krystal.landrovediaz@eu.navy.mil, amber.blanco@eu.navy.mil, gerald.provost@eu.navy.mil, sig.fcpoa@gmail.com Additional Information: This event will allow individuals from all Branches throughout Sigonella to meet and hopefully team up with hardworking, motivated and knowledgeable Mentors. There will also be outdoor events such as soccer and corn hole, food vendors and have invited many other great programs such as DAPA, CMEO, CCC, Navy colleges, FFSC, MWR to attend. No need to sign up, just show up and bring friends.
Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services NAS 1 Tuesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 0900-1100 Daily Mass: 1130-1200 1445-1615 Chapel Youth Middle School: AWANA: 1645-1900 Wednesday Protestant Men of the Chapel: Daily Mass:
0600-0700 1130-1200
Thursday Chapel Youth High School: 1330-1500 Choir Practice: 1545-1700 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults: 1800-2030 Friday Daily Mass: 1130-1200 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: 1700-1830
Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel
Saturday First Saturday Rosary and Mass:
1100-1200
Sunday Catholic Mass: 0900-1000 Catholic Religious Education: 1045-1200 Protestant Service: 1100-1200 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 1330-1600
NAS 2 Tuesday AA: 1730-1830 Wednesday Protestant Women of the Chapel: 1830-2100 Thursday Daily Mass:
1130-1200
Weekly Traffic Report: July 2 - July 9, 2018
As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.
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PAGE 14 "ITALIAN NEWS" continued from Page 6 and most spectacular festivals in the whole Mediterranean area, draws thousands of local residents, tourists and Sicilian immigrants who return to the island to celebrate their beloved patron saint with relatives and friends. This year, three city squares (piazza Bellini, piazza Marina and piazza Bologni) will be at the center of the celebrations and will host rock and folklore music, theatrical performances and entertainment for children.
The Legend of Saint Rosalia
Saint Rosalia, who is also affectionately called Santuzza or “little Saint,, was the daughter of a noble family of northeastern Sicily and a descendant of Charlemagne. She lived in the second half of the twelfth century. According to tradition, she left home when she was still a young woman to live as a hermit and hid herself in a mountain caves near Bivona and Palermo. She lived in the latter cave until she died and was buried there. In 1624, her remains were discovered and brought to the Cathedral of Palermo. The devotion that palermitani (Palermo’s townspeople) have for Santa Rosalia dates back to 1624. Rosalia is believed to have averted a terrible epidemic of plague that broke out in Palermo. According to tradition, despite the palermitani repeatedly invoking the four city co-patron saints (Cristina, Ninfa, Oliva and Agata) against the terrible disease, plague still spread at a horrifying rate. Tradition holds that Santa Rosalia appeared in a vision to a soap manufacturer Vincenzo Banelli, instructing him that if her earthly remains would be taken in procession through the city, a miracle would occur and the plague would end. After the urging of Banelli to the Palermo Cardinal, on July 14, 1624, a magnificent procession featuring the saint’s relics took place in Palermo. At the end of the processiot, the plague was over. Since 1624, every year, Palermo’s community has been celebrating with true devotion to its patron saint.
Festival Schedule
July 14 is the highlight of the festival. The spectac-
ular re-enactment of the miracle performed by Saint Rosalia begins in the historic heart of Palermo at 9 p.m. Shows featuring the parade of the Carro Trionfale (triumphal chariot), a spectacular Baroquestyled ship, are performed along Corso Vittorio Emanuele, near the Royal Palace, and the cathedral and piazza Vigliena. A breathtaking fireworks show is performed in the seafront area in the evening. During the festival, street vendors and restaurants sell the traditional food including the following specialties: la Pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines); “i babbaluci”(snails boiled with parsley and garlic); lo sfincione (focaccia topped with anchovies, spices, and cheese); il polpo bollito (boiled octopus); calia e simenza (crispy chickpeas and pumpkin seeds); la pannocchia bollita or pullanca (boiled corn on the cob) and Anguria or “ ‘u muluni” (watermelon). For more information and detailed schedules visit https://www.comune.palermo.it/394-festino-santarosalia-palermo.php
Mandatory Vaccinations: Italian Parents Will No Longer Need to Provide Doctor's Note By The Local
Parents in Italy will no longer need to provide medical evidence that their children have received ten mandatory vaccinations in order to enroll them at a state primary school, the Health Minister said on Thursday. Parents had previously been given a July 10th deadline to provide schools with the relevant documentation, but it will now be possible for parents to simply submit their own confirmation that the child has been vaccinated, according to Giulia Grillo, Italy’s Health Minister, who was speaking at a press conference on Thursday. Grillo announced that she herself was pregnant with her first child during the same press conference, and said she would “obviously” ensure her own child received the required vaccinations. The reason
JULY 13, 2018 for the relaxation in the rules was to “simplify rules” for parents, she explained. Her predecessor, Beatrice Lorenzin, said in a statement: “Self-certification is not a bad thing, but there is the question of controls: who will guarantee that children at school are actually in a safe condition?” Italy’s National Health Institute (ISS) also said it was “important not to compromise the goal of everyone’s good health”, particularly when it came to children who for medical reasons cannot have the vaccinations. Grillo stressed that families should not make false claims about their child’s vaccinations, but contact the health ministry if they had “legitimate doubts”. Both the League and Five Star Movement, political parties that have co-governed Italy since June 1st, had promised to scrap the compulsory vaccination law introduced last year. Under the decree, which sparked heated public debate when it took effect, children cannot enroll in a creche or kindergarten unless they have been vaccinated against measles and nine other diseases. All of these vaccinations are offered free of charge, and parents who failed to comply face fines of up to €500, unless there was a medical reason for not getting the vaccines. Previously, only four vaccines – not including measles – were mandatory, and Five Star Movement (M5S) leader Luigi Di Maio, now Deputy Prime Minister, suggested reverting to just these four with the addition of a compulsory measles vaccine. In 2017, there were four deaths from measles in Italy and almost 5,000 cases of the disease in total, while the national measles immunization rate of 87 percent is far below the 95 percent threshold recommended by the World Health Organization. A growing anti-vaccine movement in the country was thought to be one of the causes in the recent drastic rise in measles cases, and the M5S has been heavily criticized for its role in raising doubts over the efficacy of vaccinations. A law proposal put forward by the party in 2014 called for “better information and possible denial of administering vaccinations” and cited debunked studies.
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